In the last decade, speakeasies and cocktail bars in Taipei have elevated to a premium level of storytelling and merge of cultures. For a delightful and beautifully-made cocktail, travelers can either venture in a universe hidden behind secret doors, or hike up to an elegant rooftop while admiring a breathtaking city view. Here are some of the best places to sit back, lounge and indulge in intricately handcrafted mixology, all in the roaring capital city of Taiwan.

As one of the first premium speakeasies in Taipei, Ounce is situated behind a sliding door on Xinyi Road. Often hosting guest mixologists, Ounce always serves up meticulously-made cocktails in an intimate ambiance. For those who prefer lowkey vibes, as well as the ease of striking up a conversation with knowledgeable bartenders, this is a wonderful option. Forget about the menu, try a cocktail created on the fly with customized tastes.

HANKO 60 如醉如夢 is all about bringing back the nostalgia of Taiwan’s old-school cinema experience. In addition to a bar serving more than 40 personalized cocktails, there’s also an art studio on the second floor of the building. Taiwan’s famous fried dishes are available as snacks, and the bar tends to be packed especially on weekends.

Alchemy is one of the classic speakeasy bars in Taipei, hailing Prohibition Era with fascinating cocktails and deep leather seats. Once an entrance is discovered, the door opens to dimmed lights, ivory fireplace, groups of locals and foreigners intermixed into one. If Frank or CÉ LA VI lean more on the hyped and energetic spectrum, Alchemy is a far more laidback option despite drawing large crowds on weekends. For groups, reservation is highly recommended.

Amid Ximending district’s youthful population, Geography Bar stands out as a whimsical gem dedicated to the fertile land of Taiwan. The drink menu features tastes, crafts and agriculture of the island’s every region. Cocktails arrive with jaw-dropping presentations as they recount trade routes of various ingredients. From a bento box of flowers to concoctions wrapped in Taiwanese newspaper, Geography Bar is a delicious and cultural hotspot.

Antique Bar 1900 is another incredible space, turning back time. The multiple-stories bar is heightened by Irish green walls, spotlighting vintage trinkets like typewriters and books. There’s a wide range of premium whiskeys, even absinthe. For those who wish to stroll back to Europe, Antique Bar 1900 sings along to owner Alan’s collections from his stay in Belgium, including artworks by Alphonse Mucha and Gustav Klimt.

Tea is where the heart is at tei by OBOND where Taiwan’s celebrated crop is the star of cocktails. Jin Xuan Oolong Tea is blended with tequila, gin and rum. While Oriental Beauty Tea is mixed with Remy Martin VSOP, and Khalua. The bar itself is quite hidden, without signage. Stepping inside, hints of Japan is interpreted through a private cabin with tatami flooring. Tei by OBOND is a amalgamation of bar, tea and lab; accompanied by serene tea ceremony.

Another chic establishment with a rooftop experience is CÉ LA VI, perched on the top floor of Breeze Nanshan Building. This glamorous bar in Taipei features a gleaming view of the city, captivating expats and foreigners. For fans of the CÉ LA VI brand, this location won’t disappoint with live DJs spinning until late night and the magnificent close-up view of Taipei 101.

One of the most popular bars in Xinyi District is Frank, sitting on the top two floors of ATT 4 FUN building. Frank features a savvy cocktail menu with various sitting areas that might feel like a small club, though balcony seats seem ideal for romantic couples. Whether you’re in the mood for a beautifully-crafted drink or immerse in Taipei’s night lights, this is a great choice from 9 p.m. and on. Perfect for cocktails with a spectacular view of the city’s famous skyscraper: Taipei 101.

Owner Makita Takafumi infused her own background into an innovative drinking voyage. As a bartender and a scientist, Lab pays homage to techniques and information. Most of the cocktails are made from Lab’s herb garden. The interior minimalistic space is akin to the cocktails it serves. Don’t miss the ones that highlight aromatherapy, caffeine, even digestion. Watermelon wine is also a refreshing choice when Taiwan’s climate calls for a cool sip.

unDer lab is where art and mixology integrate. Almost like an open kitchen, guests are seated around a rectangular countertop framing the heart of the bar darkened only to spotlight where each cocktail is placed before the eyes. Concoctions are carefully crafted, according to a seasonal menu complimenting dishes served for the evening. Its name emphasizes the letter D in uppercase, symbolizing the shape of seats. Exclusive, intimate and crafted. These words speak to unDer lab’s intriguing setting.

W Hotel is internationally known for sophisticated lounge bars, and the one in Taipei is certainly not an exempt. If the weather permits, sit by the pool and devour a fruity classic. WOOBAR is known to incorporate seasonal fruits, like: lychee, jade watermelon and dragon fruit. An advantage is the flexible hours, making WOOBAR a chic choice for day drinking. Look out wine connoisseurs, it carries an outstanding international wine list.

An institution in Taipei’s cocktail scene, Indulge Experimental Bistro is a fusion of cocktails and teas that are richly renowned in Taiwan. Situated in the eastern district, this is Aki Wang’s brainchild, as a tribute to local heritage. Bistro might be in the name, but mixology take the cake by entailing Taiwanese history and modern takes on mixology. There are also tasty mocktails available for those who prefer to take a break from alcohol.

Famous for its 18 taps that inject carbon dioxide or nitrogen into alcohol, Draft Land is a standing bar brewing true to the phrase, “great things come in small packages.” At Draft Land, guests are welcome to try and taste cocktails before committing to the chosen option. It champions a brand new way of tasting cocktails – served on tap, similar to beers. Simplicity in its interior décor compensates a small space with understated style.

In the case of Staff Only Club, “members” indicate staff that check in before the start of their shifts. Renovated from a former soy sauce factory, this is an elegant space embellished with pink velour and plush pumpkin couches, completely brought to life by Taiwanese designers. From lighting to utensils. Bold in design, glamorous in cocktails. Bar snacks are created by Theo Hsiao of Mume – a Michelin-starred restaurant in Taipei.

Lodged on Marriott Hotel’s 20th floor is Inge’s Bar, where a panoramic view of the city welcomes guests with fabulosity within an artistic sphere of a honeycomb. Although the restaurant is famed for American barbecue, the cocktails embrace flavors of the world. The menu is categorized by taste: Refreshing, Sweet & Sour, Heavy, and Dessert-style which reimagines Black Forest and Lemon Cake.

Book in advance because Bar Mood is incredibly popular. Guided by the man behind Taiwan’s cocktail bar scene, Nick Wu created this swanky bar to showcase Asia’s best with an American attitude. You can find unique Taiwanese and Japanese whiskeys blended in cocktails, as well as numerous ingredients that evoke Taiwanese roots. Try Mood’s tea-infused cocktails featuring locally grown oolong, pu’er, and jasmine.

MOD is moody, it’s also legit. For those who have a soft spot for whiskey, this is the right place. MOD’s collection is more than impressive, global, and rare. The subdued atmosphere is further reinforced via a wooden counter, featuring a plethora of whiskey brands. For a local treat, order a platter of luwei – a night market dish spotlighting local ingredients (seaweed, tofu, chicken wings, eggs, ramen) marinated and braised in soy sauce and Chinese herbs for hours.

The Public House transports old-school Britain to Taiwan, delightfully with a twist. Replacing chilled brews are handcrafted cocktails often served with ice cubs carved by hand. Each signature cocktail is numbered, from #1 to #5, ranging from lightly flavored to fuller tones. Of course, the Gin & Tonic is undoubtedly a fanastic choice. After 2 a.m., the bar offers complimentary chicken soup before it closes at 4 a.m.

Noobtent takes glamping to new heights. Situated next to the iconic Shilin Night Market, Noobtent sets itself apart with a caravan, parked under twinkle lights and a tent. Both spaces are seats for guests that yearn for an outdoor experience without leaving the city. Cocktails are easy and tasty, but the interior décor is what draws crowds.