Parkside Plum Juice

Review

Parkside Plum Juice stands at the corner of Hengyang Road and Huaining Street, facing 228 Peace Memorial Park. According to sources, it began in 1960 as a pushcart selling around the park and moved to its current spot in 1969. The building is one of the first shophouses finished after Taipei's Japanese-era street reorganization, and in 2022 it and its neighbors were designated a Taipei municipal monument, though the interior has been renovated.

The drink is made from smoked plum, hawthorn, licorice and osmanthus, simmered over low heat for at least six hours each day. It tastes tart and sweet with a smoky note and a faintly salty finish. The Taipei travel site lists a cup at NT$25, it is easy to take away, and after a summer stroll through the park it is very refreshing. The shop also sells old-fashioned ice cream, and some visitors suggest taking one into the park.

Fans say it balances sour and sweet, has a distinctive smokiness, and is a rare old Taipei flavor in a building full of atmosphere. Others aren't used to the smoky, herbal taste of smoked plum and find it not to their liking. Note that the pastry shop next door is not part of Parkside; one visitor gave that shop's pastries a very poor review, so don't mix them up.

Hours are roughly 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., but sources differ on closing time, so check before you go. The drink is chilled by cooling rather than served with ice, and the sweetness can't be adjusted. It is walkable from NTU Hospital, Ximen or Beimen MRT stations and pairs easily with the Presidential Office Building and 228 Park.

It suits anyone exploring the government district who wants a cooling, old-fashioned drink, and travelers interested in Taipei's historic buildings. On a first visit, get a cup of plum drink and an ice cream, then sit on a park bench and take in the old storefront.