During my spring business trip to Japan, I decided to treat myself to a luxurious trip to Taipei. On the top of my list was to experience the W Taipei Yen Bar as it has one of the most fabulous views of the city. Here’s the thing about a bar or restaurant with a view: many restaurants or bars lure you in with the view but lack in food or cocktails. The experience can be rushed, and all you’re left with is photos of the “view” and mediocre food and/or cocktails. I am happy to share that this is not one of those experiences!
Although the W Hotel brand is known for its nightlife, I decided to head to W Taipei Yen Bar for afternoon tea after spending the morning at the National Palace Museum. When I arrived at Yen, I was smitten with the design, plush chairs, delicate glass fixtures, and boom! there it was, Taipei 101 staring back at me as I sat at my window booth.
Although the experience is labeled as “afternoon tea,” I was told about the extensive cocktail list and their variety of mojitos (the bartender, Jacky, told me they can make 100 variations!). Needless so say, I went straight for the cocktails! I had a gorgeous mojito with Ti Kuan Yin, a traditional Taiwanese tea. The blend of the bitterness of the tea, mint, rum, and simple syrup sounds chaotic but went down like a beautiful melody. Cocktails were paired with an intricate tower resembling Taipei 101. It was a collection of sweet and savory treats. When I went to bite into a sweet sesame ball, I noticed a hair. I immediately called the server over, and he was horrified. He notified the manager who took the time to apologize and send me a beautiful set of creme-filled sweet buns dusted with chocolate. What I truly admire about an establishment is how they bounce back from embarrassing situations of this kind. Although it was an unfortunate incident, the grace in which the management handled it reiterated the professionalism of their staff.
I appreciated how the bartenders, Farrah and Jacky, took the time to chat with me and give tips about Taipei. I visited the bar by myself (the perils of solo travel) and enjoyed how they made me feel at home in their space. If you are in Taipei, make sure to add tea time at the W Taipei Yen Bar to your itinerary. Tip: tea time is way less crowded than their evening service. You won’t have to share the view with that many people, and the staff has the time to craft you the perfect cocktail. Not only do you get the view but great service and cocktails as well. Reservations highly recommended.
