Invisible Senses
Finding Lugar is a bit like finding Platform 9 3/4 in the world of Harry Potter. Hidden in a dark alley between numbers 70 and 82, behind a closed door, this non-descript storefront has a sense of magic to it. Taiwanese owner William shows his love for Taiwan and Japan by playing classic pop songs by Faye Wong and Ken Hirai, serving Taiwanese beer (￥20) and including 17-year old Hibiki on the fine whisky list. The cocktails, priced at the flat rate of ￥50, and mixed drinks topped with bubbly (￥70) are a bit costly, as you're merely paying for the smashed ice and the minimalist décor, but Lugar's Lemongrass Special, which tastes like a Mojito without the sugar, is quite special. Behind the large glass window emerges a staircase leading to the rooftop terrace that overlooks the space downstairs. Lugar might be a place to enjoy the sun by day; by night, number 72 is a quiet hideaway just waiting to be discovered.

Cynthia Lum

Tel: 6709-1383
Address: 72 Gulou Dong Daijie 鼓楼东大街72号
Hours: Daily, 4pm-Late