Cocktail: Little Italy (NT$280)

By Eden Lin Translated by Ann Lee

1 oz Dark rum
0.5 oz Frangelico
0.5 oz Galliano
2oz Espresso coffee
A few sugar water
A few dark, bitter chocolates
5-8 ice cubes

Bartender: A-Zhao
Taiwan Fun's cocktail of the month, Little Italy, was created by the young owner of Bistro O, Xiao-dan. The drink is named after a coffee shop owned by Xiao-dan's friend, and not only pays tribute to the shop, but also to the delicious merging of coffee and alcohol. The decorations at Bistro O, which is right in the ShiDa night market, were created by owner Xiao-dan and his staff, and are moved around and changed every couple of months to keep the place looking fresh. At Bistro O, choose from their Belgium beers or ask the bartender to custom-make your drink.

Directions: Put ice cubes, dark rum, Frangelico, Galliano, espresso and a splash of sugar water into a mixer. Shake evenly until the ice melts. Strain the contents into a cocktail glass. Decorate to taste with a few shavings of dark, bitter chocolate.

Apart from a great selection of beverages available at Bistro O, they also serve a delicious Tri-Potato Platter, Fried Cheese & Rice Balls, Taiwanese-style omelets, and pizza. You will also see two or three cats and a Golden Retriever wandering around to keep you company.

Bistro O
(02) 2363-7170
5-1, Lane 49, ShiDa Rd
Hours: weekdays 7 pm-3 am,
weekends 7 pm-4 am (closed on Tuesday)
10% service charge. Credit cards not accepted.
Parking nearby. Designated indoor smoking area.