Linsen N. Rd. Alley Japanese Bar — Taipei

Went for drinks with a new friend from the traditional chemical industry at this Japanese-style bar on Linsen North Road. With few Japanese guests due to the pandemic, it felt almost like a private booking. We kept ordering whiskies to support the mama-san, who sang heartfelt Japanese songs, claiming she once visited singer Rimi Natsukawa's home in Ishigaki. Thanks to good friends for the treat—cheers!