Gongguan Riverside Bars

Taipei


A string of simple outdoor bars with local and expat owners that offer a range of bottled beers, ciders and spirits. Nothing fancy, but there's a friendly, upbeat atmosphere and a lot of music. No fixed times, and it's often not open in winter if it's too cold. If it's raining, move your table under the shelter of an overhead motorway.

It's rare to find outdoor places to drink, away from the road and residential areas where homeowners can complain about the noise.

To get here, head out of the MRT via Exit 4, take the first road left and go straight for about 800m until you hit the riverside. You'll hear the boom of the music before you see the bars, underneath the elevated road.