Lin Bar:
Red-and-white
delight
By Douglas Habecker
Translated by S. Ying
99, ChaoFu Rd, 1F, Xitun Dist (The Lin Hotel & Banquet)
(04) 2255-5555
Hours: 3-11 pm (open to 1 am Fri/Sat from about late March)
English menu available.
Credit cards accepted.
10% service charge.
Parking available.
"Wow!" was my initial comment as I walked into Lin Bar for the first time and gazed at what is easily the most visually-striking drinking spot in Taichung. The fact that this cherry red-and-white, candy-striped marvel also serves as a hotel lobby bar--usually relatively low-key, unexceptional places--made it all the more surprising.
As its name indicates, Lin Bar is part of the brand-new The Lin Hotel & Banquet and fully fits in with the hotel's goal of standing apart from the crowd when it comes to exceptional facilities, standards and decor. Like the rest of the hotel, the bar is just getting started and will undoubtedly expand its offerings and facilities in the months ahead, including later open hours and the addition of a nice attached outdoor, foliage-surrounded seating area when the weather warms up. However, you can certainly head over and revel in its very chic-feeling ambiance right now.
 
There is a variety of comfortable seating for over 30 here against the wall, around small tables and down the long bar, making it good for individuals and groups alike. Currently, customers are asked to choose from two all-you-can-drink/eat offers: NT$599 between 3 and 8 p.m. and NT$699 from 8 to 11 p.m. (extended later to 1 a.m. or later).
  
Mojito and Cosmopolitan
cocktails (NT$360 each)
The former, earlier offer almost resembles a teatime deal, including cold dishes like Salami Cold Cuts and Salmon Mousse, plus various cakes, breads, cookies and nuts, soft drinks, coffees, house red and white wines, and Taiwan Beer Gold Label. The latter evening deal leaves off most of the food but adds more wines, four whiskies (from The Famous Grouse and Jim Beam to Chivas Regal 12 Years) and three more beers to the all-you-can-drink selection.
Customers can still order additional drinks off the menu, including pretty much any classic cocktail (NT$360) which appear to be "super-sized" versions of the standards.
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February 2015
