[Taiwan Travel] Taipei Izakayas Near Zhongshan MRT Station in Taipei

When in Taiwan, nothing beats ending the day with a relaxing massage. After an amazing session, both my husband and I were starving! So, we decided to explore some nearby taipei izakayas around Zhongshan MRT Station, and today, I’m sharing two fantastic spots we discovered.

1. 鷲炎鹽串燒 YAKITORI – A Cozy Yakitori Spot Near The Village Spa

After an incredible Swedish massage at The Village Spa, we stumbled upon this Japanese-style yakitori joint nearby. The signboard, featuring a bold eagle design, immediately caught our attention, and we decided to give it a try without hesitation.

If you’re planning to visit The Village Spa, this izakaya makes for the perfect post-massage dinner spot. The place has stellar Google reviews, and though it’s not flooded with tourists, it’s clear that it’s a favorite among locals. For us, that’s always a bonus—we love discovering hidden gems frequented by residents!

1) First Impressions

From the start, the vibe was fantastic—cozy and welcoming, with a distinctly local atmosphere. We took a seat, ready to soak in the Taiwanese izakaya experience.
Spoiler alert: we were not disappointed.

Both the food and service were top-notch! The open communication between the kitchen and the staff ensured quick service. Instead of opting for a set menu, we decided to order a variety of skewers and grilled dishes à la carte.

2) What We Ordered

Every single dish was a winner! While I was slightly disappointed that they only served Japanese beers (no Taiwan Beer here, unfortunately), sipping on an Asahi in Taiwan added a humorous twist to the night.

3) A couple of highlights from our meal

Pickled Tomatoes:

I’ve been obsessed with tomatoes lately, so this was a no-brainer. They were refreshing, flavorful, and perfect as a light snack with drinks. It inspired me to try making my own pickled tomatoes at home this summer!

Fried Oysters:

While the portion size was modest, the price was equally reasonable, similar to the cost of skewers. I’d heard that oysters can be pricey in Taiwan, so this seemed like a fair deal.

This place offers a satisfying blend of Japanese izakaya vibes and local charm. If you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth a visit.

2. Taipei izakayas, Soshow Bar & Restaurant – A Chic Spot 6 Minutes from Zhongshan MRT

The second stop on our mini culinary adventure was Soshow Bar & Restaurant, conveniently located just a short walk from our hotel, CitizenM Taipei North Gate.

This trendy spot is known for showcasing Taiwanese regional specialties alongside a wide selection of beverages. It’s a great place to experience a modern twist on local flavors.

1) Reservation Tip

We booked our visit through KKday, taking advantage of a special deal that included a discount on the deposit. This not only saved us money but also guaranteed our spot at this popular bar.

2) The Experience

The staff here were exceptionally friendly, and the owner personally recommended a signature Taiwanese cocktail that I can’t stop thinking about—it was that good! While the prices lean on the higher side, the fusion of local Taiwanese elements with Western influences made every dish worth it.

If you’re looking for a spot to unwind after a day of exploring Taipei, Soshow is a fantastic choice. Whether it’s their drinks or their food, everything feels thoughtfully curated and delicious.

3. Tips for Exploring Izakayas Near Zhongshan MRT

Make Reservations Early: Popular places like Soshow can get busy, especially on weekends. Platforms like KKday or Klook are great for booking in advance.
Carry Cash: Some smaller establishments might not accept credit cards, so having cash on hand is always a good idea.
Arrive Early for the Best Experience: To avoid long waits or missing out on the best seats, head out earlier in the evening, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Whether you’re craving taipei izakayas, local flavors, or a creative cocktail, Zhongshan MRT Station is packed with amazing spots to end your day on a high note. Cheers to a delicious and memorable Taiwan trip!

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