Speical Guest Reviewer: Bar Kumura aka Johnny's by Jon.

Bar Kumura (or “Johnny’s” as we like to call it) is an oasis of good drinking amongst a mire of dire swill holes that represent the bars of Hsinchu. Inside is a small but stylish bar complemented by a wide choice of decent beverages. Lining one wall is a selection of fine wine, some very fine indeed. Ranging from pleasant beaujolais to imposing clarets, dry chardonnays to sweet sauternes, even a Chateau Musar and Tokaji slink amongst the shelves. The beer fridge is permanently stocked with Fullers, (including London Pride, ESB, Discovery and others from the brewery) Hoegaardens and Bitburgers. Standing imperiously opposite the wine and beer are several shelves of whiskey. There is a good selection from Japan and an impressive choice from Scotland, including several of the classic malts from United Distillers. Some decent port sits quietly next to the whiskey too, whilst another shelf is devoted to the thrills of sake and what I assume is shochu.

But perhaps the thing that makes Johnny’s worth visiting is the eponymous owner himself. This portly and gregarious gentleman takes great delight in entertaining people in his bar and offering warm hospitality to anyone who walks through the door. So let us raise our glasses and toast the most gentle of gentlemen and his fine bar, “To Johnny and Johnny’s!”

Bar Kumura, 74 Datong Road, Hsinchu, Taiwan