Exploring Taipei’s Best Cocktail Bars

Taiwan’s Cocktail Scene – A Hidden Gem in Asia

Taiwan has one of my favorite bar scenes in the APAC region—packed with incredibly talented bartenders who are not just skilled but also welcoming and humble. There’s a strong sense of camaraderie here, and despite the steady rise in prices, cocktails in Taiwan remain relatively affordable compared to other countries.

However, despite the thriving bar culture, the industry still doesn’t get the recognition it deserves from the government. Many bartenders are working together to raise awareness, pushing for better recognition and rights within the hospitality industry. It’s an ongoing battle, but the passion and dedication of these bartenders are what keep Taiwan’s cocktail scene moving forward.

Most of the industry’s biggest names have their own bars right here in Taipei. While there are plenty of incredible spots across Taiwan, let’s start with the capital—where some of the best and most influential bars have made their mark.

Bar Mood: The Art of Balance & Precision in Every Sip

Bar Mood is one of Taipei's top cocktail destinations, thanks to the vision of its owner, Nick Wu, a true industry leader in Taiwan's bar scene. Nick has gained widespread recognition across Asia, and his talents were further showcased when he collaborated with the renowned Tokyo bartender, Hidetsugu Ueno, back in 2015. Their collaboration elevated the profile of Taiwan’s cocktail culture, blending Nick’s expertise with Ueno-san’s mastery.

Bar Mood is all about flawless balance and precision, with a style that fuses Taiwanese ingredients with classic cocktail techniques. The bar’s atmosphere is intimate and welcoming, making it a perfect spot for those looking to enjoy expertly crafted drinks in a cozy yet sophisticated setting.

If you're new to the Taipei bar scene, Bar Mood is a must-visit. However, do yourself a favor and make a reservation ahead of time—this spot tends to get packed, so planning ahead ensures you won’t miss out on the experience.

Room By Le Kief: A Cocktail Journey Like No Other

Room By Le Kief is not your typical cocktail bar—it's a multi-sensory experience that immerses you in a world of creativity and culinary artistry. Located in the heart of Taipei, this bar takes a unique approach to cocktail culture, offering a reserved, experience-driven concept that goes far beyond just serving drinks. To fully enjoy what Room By Le Kief has to offer, you’ll need to book a reservation in advance, as they craft bespoke journeys for each guest based on a particular theme they're presenting at the time.

The experience usually includes 4-5 carefully crafted cocktails, served in slightly smaller portions to allow you to sample a variety of flavors, all perfectly paired with exquisite food that complements each drink. But what truly sets Room By Le Kief apart is the way they tie the whole experience together—from the décor to the background music and the ambiance. The moment you step inside, you're transported into a completely different world, where every detail aligns to create an unforgettable atmosphere. Whether the theme is inspired by nature, art, or a specific region, it feels like you're submerged in the very essence of it.

It’s a cocktail journey that’s as much about the story they tell as it is about the drinks themselves—a rare experience you won’t soon forget.

Four Play: Reinventing Classics with a Playful Twist

Four Play offers a cocktail experience that stands out in its own way—while it doesn’t take you on a full thematic journey like Room By Le Kief, each drink here is an experience in itself. Founded by Allen, one of Taiwan’s most innovative bartenders, Four Play is all about pushing the boundaries of cocktail creativity without losing the essence of classic recipes. Allen has a knack for reimagining timeless drinks, introducing unexpected yet perfectly balanced twists that make you rethink what a cocktail can be.

The beauty of Four Play’s approach is that while the foundation of each drink remains recognizable, the flavor combinations and garnishes make them feel entirely new. You might take a sip of a cocktail and immediately recognize its classic roots, but the way it’s been transformed—whether through a surprising infusion, an unconventional garnish, or an unexpected layering of flavors—makes it feel like something you’ve never tasted before.

Allen's expertise in mixology extends beyond the bar; he has also published several advanced cocktail books, which even seasoned bartenders find insightful. If you’re looking to expand your knowledge and dive deeper into the craft, his books are definitely worth checking out.

For anyone seeking a cocktail experience that blends familiarity with bold creativity, Four Play is a must-visit.

Public House: Taipei’s Ultimate Bartender Hangout

Public House is my must-go spot whenever I’m in Taipei. Unlike most bars that close earlier, this place stays open 1-2 hours later, making it the go-to hangout for bartenders after work. It’s where we, as bartenders, come to unwind, catch up, and enjoy a damn good drink. But don’t get me wrong—this isn’t just an industry favorite. Public House is amazing in every way, from its signature cocktails and expertly crafted classics to its unbeatable atmosphere.

And then, there’s the surprise—the food. If you’re anything like us and enjoy a good drink (or five), then you need to try what might just be the best drunk or hangover cure: a hot bowl of soup. Public House serves up some incredible food, but their chicken soup is on another level. There’s just something about sipping a hot, flavorful broth after a night of cocktails that brings you back to life.

Of course, drinks are the main event, and the bartenders here know their craft. Whether it’s a signature creation or a perfectly executed classic, their technique ensures that every drink is consistently top-tier. So, whether you’re a fellow bartender, a cocktail enthusiast, or just someone looking for a late-night spot that does everything right—Public House is the place to be.

Bar Without: A Unique Cocktail Experience Beyond the Norm

Bar Without is one of Taipei’s most unique cocktail bars, pushing the boundaries of what a drinking experience can be. Established in 2019, it quickly gained recognition for its minimalist branding and modern approach to cocktails. The team behind the bar focuses on creativity and balance rather than sticking to any single technique or style. Their drinks often incorporate local and house-made ingredients, ensuring fresh and natural flavors that evolve with each seasonal menu.

Unlike most bars, Bar Without doesn't limit itself to a single concept. Instead, each menu follows a carefully curated theme—one past menu, “Voyage and Civilization,” took guests on a journey through different cultural influences, with flavors reflecting various global inspirations. Whether it’s a cocktail infused with kaffir lime and Yakult-fermented milk or a delicate mix of clarified yogurt, rose, and coriander bitters, every drink tells a story.

If you’re looking for a cocktail experience that goes beyond just a good drink, this is a place you won’t want to miss. Just be sure to book a reservation—like all great spots in Taipei, it fills up fast.

Taiwan’s Cocktail Scene is Just Getting Started

There are still so many incredible bars I’d love to cover— AHASaloon, Indulge Bistro, Bar Pun, UnDer Lab, Knock Knock, To Infinity & BBeyond, and more. Each has its own unique take on cocktails, adding to the depth of Taiwan’s growing bar scene. But for now, let’s leave those for another time.

Taiwan’s cocktail culture is only getting stronger, with talented bartenders constantly pushing boundaries and redefining the drinking experience. And we’re just scratching the surface—beyond Taipei, cities like Taichung are making their mark, proving that Taiwan’s bar scene is one of the best in the world.

Stay tuned, because this journey is far from over. To be continued…