Did you know that there is a bakery up in the hills of Zhiben? The delicious aroma wafting out from the bakery is like it’s special way of calling out to you saying, “We’re up here! Come on over and take a bite!” Even though the bread doesn’t come in a fancy bag, you can still see the owner’s passion in each and every loaf. (Photo Credit: IG@neolu4444)
Tucked into the foothills of Zhiben, this bakery sits in a traditional Taiwanese farmhouse. The comforting aroma of freshly baked bread greets visitors as soon as they step into the yard. People call it a bakery, but it’s more like a house. Visitors won’t find many things resembling a café here. Customers are treated like friends coming over to say hi. The owners, Neo and Iris, moved from Taichung. The couple started their happy life in the mountains after they fell in love with Zhiben’s natural beauty and pristine environment. Neo is a bread connoisseur. He’s studied under masters from around the world to delve into the art of fermentation and baking. Through this, Neo has developed flavors that are famous far and wide. He only makes two or three types of European-style bread every day. His main varieties are a standard loaf, rye, wine walnut and pepper cheese. Please note that you need to order ahead. Neo is a strict believer of quality over quantity. (Photo Credit: IG@neolu4444)
“I’m in heaven,” “I can’t stop eating, “I’m moving to Zhiben!” This mountain bakery is a famous example of Taitung’s hidden eats. They’ve developed a name for themselves not by taking out ads, but through their authentic baking process. Everyone always leaves glowing with praise and asking the question, “How is their plain bread so special?” Their classic loaf is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s pleasantly chewy and gets better with every bite. Also, they don’t use egg, milk or other spices. This lets the flavor of all-natural baker’s yeast come through. Their bread is a symphony of texture because it’s also packed with delicious goodies such as nuts and dried fruit. Once you take your first bite, you won’t be able to put this delicious bread down.
Besides offering bread, you can also purchase hand-brewed single-origin coffee here. The owner will make your coffee to order depending on your choice of coffee bean. Sip on smooth and rich coffee paired with delicious bread and light jazz music to have a relaxing and wonderful experience. The owner is also a vinyl record fan, and plays orchestra music for the rising dough, no wonder why the final product is so yummy!
In addition to bread, the bakery also serves single-origin pour-over coffee. Based on the beans you want and how you like your coffee, they brew up something just for you. Wind down and enjoy some mellow coffee, delicious bread and smooth jazz. The owners also have an extensive vinyl collection. They play classical music for their dough as it’s rising. No wonder it’s so delicious! (Photo Credit: IG@neolu4444)
Address: No. 38, Zhele Rd, Wenquan Village, Beinan Township, Taitung County
Hours of Operation: 12:00-16:00 (Closed on Monday and Tuesday)
Webpage: https://www.facebook.com/INbakery/
