PLAN B

29-1, AnHe Rd., Sec. 1

--By Charles McHale , translated by Kiki Wu

The End of the World is near. This flaming signature cocktail shot is made from a volatile 160-proof (80%) Polish vodka and your choice of Kahlua or Creme de Menthe, then downed 'gan bei'-style. The intriguing part comes after the flame is extinguished. You are given a straw to snort (yes, snort) the exhausted alcohol vapor. The experience is unforgettable, though after a few End of the World (NT$400) shots you might forget everything else. Plan B excels at providing an orgy of stimuli with a dimly-lit interior, plush couches and bead-curtained private tables. The cocktails aren't the only thing smoking; hookahs are available for NT$500 and a special alcohol-filled one is NT$800. The wine menu is good and the choice of single malts and other liquor is excellent. Then there's the food. Try the Stir Fry Spicy Pork Intestines NT$280 for a snack. For a meal, the Pork Knuckle with Sauerkraut and Mustard Sauce (NT$460) is outstanding. Current regulations require us to remind you not to drink and drive.