SHARK DEN RESTAURANT & BAR 5, Hua Mei West Road, section 1 Tel: (04) 2329-8801 Hours: 7 p.m.-3 a.m. (closed Tuesdays)

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This is no den for sharks, it's a place to 'leave the bullsh*t at the door' in the words of co-owner Mark Harrison.  This isn't the kind of pub to get hammered and pass out, leer at waitresses or flail about sweatily on a dance floor; it's a place to relax, have a drink and engage in the pleasant bonding rituals of friendship.

During my visit the friendliness was palpable.  The customers smiled and introduced themselves to each other.  Conversations sprung up randomly and easily crossed tables of complete strangers.  Inclusiveness seemed to be the standard.  Around the bar a group discussed what instruments world leaders would play if they were in a band.  A table with two or three Koreans, a Canadian and a Taiwanese discussed the best Korean restaurants in town.  Everyone was clearly enjoying themselves.

Shark Den is small and intimate.  There are several comfortable booths centred around soft lamps protruding from the middle of hand painted watery scenes.  A small bar and some outdoor seating allow for spillover (it was reasonably busy for a sunday night).  The deep blue and dark wood decor is tasteful and comfortable.

Of the three owners, two were present the night I was there: Hammer and artist Mark Harrison.  These two old friends are friendly, genuine and run a good bar.  Each moved comfortably between cultures and languages.

Drinks include 500cc of San Miguel for NT$ 80 up to 4000cc for NT$ 550.  A regular bottle of San Miguel is NT$ 60.  The food is American Pub style, with the most popular dishes being the Philly cheese steak, cheeseburger and onion rings. 

Shark Den is a welcome addition to the Canal district, further establishing the area as a night life destination.  If you are looking for an intimate place to relax with a drink, Shark Den should be high on your list.  Check it out.