In the past few years, I've started enjoying coffee shops on weekends where I can treat myself to a nice brunch and have some "me time."

My ideal brunch spot needs four things: delicious food, comfortable seating, plenty of natural light (floor-to-ceiling windows or outdoor seating), and preferably not too noisy—so I can settle in for a while with my laptop or a book.

Here are my favorite weekend brunch spots. Whether I'm going with friends or flying solo, they're all wonderful choices.

Mercer Brunch @ Minsheng Community

My number one favorite.

Super delicious French toast, rare hummus, and a cozy atmosphere. The fireplace area is warm and cute, but I especially like sitting in the semi-outdoor area.

I particularly enjoy going there after working out on weekends. Every brunch set is super tasty. Finishing up with an Aperol Spritz makes for a perfect afternoon.

Brun不然 @ Xinyi Anhe

I really like "Brun不然" brunch and have been to most locations, but my favorite is the third-floor outdoor area at the Xinyi branch. 

As a sun lover, ordering their "Brun milk tea" or green juice with either shrimp quinoa rice or bolognese pasta is a joy. The banana pancakes are also very tasty. Paired with their lo-fi playlist (which is very similar to mine), you can enjoy a peaceful and comfortable afternoon.

Sugar Pea @ Xinyi Anhe 

This place is relatively more lively and energetic. It has a beautiful glass house area, so reservations are required before going.

There are so many good items. My personal must-orders are the avocado chicken toast and the "Green Miracle" with added chicken. The red velvet cake is also a signature dish — very tasty but large in portion, so better for sharing.

Ivette Da'an @Zhongxiao Fuxing/Dunhua

They have super delicious avocado salmon soba cold noodles and a special purple sweet potato latte. Everything on the menu is tasty, though I haven't tried their desserts yet.

If you want to eat something light and healthy after a workout, this is an excellent choice.

Pastaio Noodle Cafe @Taipei Arena

The dish that can compete with Mercer Brunch's French toast is definitely from Pastaio Noodle Cafe. It's too delicious, too sinful! Their pasta is also incredibly tasty..

Since Pastaio is known for its signature pasta, Noodle Cafe is their new brand. It's a splendid weekend brunch option. If the weather is nice, you can also sit in the outdoor area. They also just opened one in the Zhongxiao area too.

Konzy Kava @ Nanjing Fuxing

I really love this café. The food is delicious and it's very quiet. Industrial style, filled with greenery.

They have the best Basque cheesecake and their signature peppercorn noodles with chicken. It's a place I keep coming back to.

Kozzz @ Dazhi

A spacious and elegant Australian-style brunch. Highly recommend the "Fisherman's" slightly spicy seafood pasta. I finally found my favorite angel hair pasta again.

They also have delicious pistachio latte, signature tiramisu, or daily rotating dessert options. This is one of my favorite weekend me-time spots.

Koshi Cafe @ Neihu (near AIT)

A white building hidden in an alley near the AIT in Neihu. Their sourdough avocado toast and signature black sesame cake are my must-orders every time.

There are also different croissants and dessert options daily. The atmosphere is relaxing and pleasant — just a bit difficult to stay for a long time if you want to sit there.

Above are my 8 brunch recommendations. Do you have any favorite brunch spots in Taipei?

Thank you for reading!