NELL'S HOME (04) 2310-0836 1-1, JingCheng 22nd Street (north of JingCheng & XiangShang roads intersection) Hours: 1F Cafe 12 pm-12 am; 2F Shop 3 pm-12 am Smoking on outdoor patio only. Credit cards not accepted.

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--By Courtney Donovan Smith, translated by Jean Huang

It was quite a blow for many when the original Nell's Home store closed. Now, two months later, an all-new Nell's Home has opened and promises to be as much a home for Taichung's creative community as its predecesor. The handicrafts, art, clothing and jewelry store are located on the second floor and boast the same creative, fascinating mix of products as the original store. Unfortunately, the dedicated gallery and exhibit space of the first Nell's is gone. Instead, the stairwell serves as a mini-gallery for visual arts. For performance arts, a stage area has been set up in the downstairs cafe, which shows the decorative creativity of owner Nell and reflects her passion for handmade and heartfelt objects. Cleverly, the tables double as glass display cases for artwork and jewelry from the upstairs store. Posters are displayed with information on artistic shows and performances around the city. While at the cafe, be sure to try one of the submarine sandwiches (NT$70-NT$150), pancakes (NT$60-NT$80) or sample one of the coffees or teas on the menu (NT$60-NT$120). The downstairs is in the process of being converted into a classroom and art space for yoga and other interests.