革• KAWA (Kaohsiung, TAIWAN) ★★★★☆

One of the highlights of my visit to Yancheng district (鹽埕區) was supposed to be a trip to a hidden café called 革• KAWA. Lost in the labyrinth of narrow streets on the residential side of Yancheng, it is not the easiest place to find even with the help of GPS but I managed to track it down just before the clock struck 3pm.



Just as I thought I was finally ready to indulge in my highly anticipated afternoon tea, the hostess gave me some disappointing news, that they were already at full capacity and politely asked me to return in an hour. And I did.

革• KAWA looks like it's operating out of someone's house.

Since its opening in 2021, this cozy, home-style café has attracted a group of devoted following of young patrons thanks in large part to its exquisite desserts and wallet-friendly prices.

Basque cheesecake with taro purée (芋泥巴斯克) (NT$160) – One of their most popular dessert is their Basque cheesecake. This normally comes in different flavors including my favorite Earl Grey (伯爵巴斯克).

But today, there's only one flavor of Basque cheesecake available, which came with a thin layer of taro purée on the bottom. This presentation sets it apart from other Basque cheesecakes on the market, where flavors are often infused directly into the cream cheese.

This was really delicious. The layer of taro purée meshed beautifully with the cheesecake, enhancing its creamy flavors without overpowering its cheesiness.

Milk tea (NT$140) – Classic royal milk tea style. Surprisingly, not too sweet.

革• KAWA has a no-reservation policy and like most cafés in Kaohsiung, guests must order at least one dessert and one drink.

Food Rating: 7.1/10

Price: $$

Address: No.13, Dacheng Street Lane 37, Yancheng District, Kaohsiung, Taiwan

Closest Metro Station: Yanchengpu

Website: https://www.facebook.com/p/%E9%9D%A9KAWA-Cafe-100066744621446/

Opening Hours: 12:30pm - 6:30pm (Fri - Tue) (check FB for their random off-days)