503, Ying Tsai Road, Taichung
Tel:(04) 2301-6758
Hours: 24hrs

by Debbie Ho

Roaming on the wide, green pedestrian path along Ying Tsai Road, heading toward Taichung Municipal Cultural Center and National Museum of Art, with a casual glance to your left, you'll see a huge self-portrait of Van Gogh right up filling your sight. Windows in geometric patterns, glazing blue and hot red dancing among  black and white basis, together steam out the Van Gogh air. This is the enchanting 'Van Gogh Café and Restaurant'.

An impeccable creature is the café by itself, it is open 24-hours with convenient internet service. The café is an exquisite coalition of fine arts, magazines and pure coffee. Walls and partitions are all decorated with Van Gogh's famous paintings. Green houseplants and emerald vines in between usher in vigorous spirit and energy. It's inclined with Barnes & Nobles' incomparable atmosphere of literature, but excludes Barnes' accompanying uproar. Moreover, the café provides nice meals and cozy couches.

Around 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., or 2 a.m. till 5 a.m. with NT$200 or so, you can enjoy a wide choices of spaghetti, ice cream waffle or fresh fruit combination. That comes with any one order of drink from the menu for free. Jazz serves your ears; fine cuisine suits your stomach; magazines delight your eyes. The joy in one's soul and the relish in one's tongue confirms it is a good deal.

The two computers for internet service are currently under repair. It's said some ill-behaved customers tried to steal the hard disc. While listening to the owner's complaint, I, sipping my favorite fragrant Lavender Tea, am only thinking of when I'll be here next. Should be soon, I promise myself. If you possess the same favor toward arts as me, don't miss this special stop.