On Hsinsheng South Road, across from National Taiwan University, Whisky's unobtrusive presence - tipped off by a cold gray door hidden on the wall face - is easily overlooked. But upon entering, it is immediately apparent that this is the new secret hideaway of Taipei's showbiz celebrities, after the Opium Den shut its doors earlier this year.
A few scenes from Hou Hsiao-hsien's (侯孝賢) latest film Millennium Mambo (千禧曼波) were shot here, featuring slumped-0ver drunk Shu Qi (舒淇). So keep your eyes open for stars like Shu or A-mei (阿妹) in the dim light.
Owner and manager Jessie Huang (黃修), who played a part himself in Millennium Mambo, has deftly designed the house into a relaxing, yet urbane and stylish bar. Huang is also a shareholder in Texound and Rock Candy.
Unobtrusive electronic music adds to the chilled atmosphere created by the uniformly light gray decor. The couches are some of the comfiest in town, as are the tall bar seats that line the walls. "It is not minimalist style, it's naturalist. I want everything to look natural and comfortable." Said interior designer Ted Su (蘇辰修), who also did the restaurants Wind and Apocalypse Now.
There are five large VIP rooms that surround a beautiful open-air courtyard, each equipped with its own sound system so people can play their won CDs.
On offer are more than 10 kinds of whisky, hence the name of the bar. Popular cocktails include the Long Island Ice Tea (NT$250). The house also serves exquisite Thai food until 3am.
Whisky is located at 40 Hsinsheng S. Rd. Sec. 2
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