Bangkok Scene

UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE IN BANGKOK-BEST BARS

Bangkok - a city of sights, sounds, non-stop action, grit and character – a diverse mix of old and new. Undoubtedly a city full of hustle and bustle where negotiation and haggling is a way of life, and while some of the best cheap eats on the planet are found here, the tropical climate and 24-hour nightlife lends itself to some of the best bars in the world, with key players opening up venues here. To start the night off or turn it up a gear what drink would be more fitting in the ‘Sin City of Asia’ than an ice-cold shot of Jägermeister? Cheers with friends, discover new places, and celebrate the good times. Here’s our guide to some of the best bars Bangkok has on offer.

BACKSTAGE COCKTAIL BAR

Backstage Cocktail Bar is located inside the PlayHaus Thonglor Boutique Hotel. The entire venue is decorated like a stage play, and the bar itself makes up the dressing room part. A place where you can relax and be yourself, the space is small, comfortable and dimly lit with vintage lamps. Behind the bar are three Hollywood makeup mirrors and an impressive range of spirits and liqueurs. These are the stars of the cocktail menu, which features 12 signature classics with a twist. But don’t be afraid to sing out for something new, just pick your poison and let the bartenders work their magic. PlayHaus Thonglor 205/22-23, 55 Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand T: +66 61 519 5891 W: www.facebook.com/backstagecocktailbarbkk/ Opening hours: Mon - Sun: 7pm – 2am

TEENS OF THAILAND

If you’re looking for a great gin bar, then Teens of Thailand in your go-to spot. Located in Chinatown, the entrance is marked by a beautiful wooden door. Inside are bar, concrete walls sporting racy photographs, hipster bar kegs and a vast collection of gin. Mixologist Niks AnumanRajadhon changes his drinks list daily, so keep a look out for the board. And don’t let the name fool you, it’s a respectable joint with a vintage inspired aesthetic.

76 Khwaeng Pom Prap, Khet Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10100, Thailand T: +66 96 846 0506 W: www.facebook.com/teensofthailand Opening hours: Sun - Mon: 7pm – 1am

THE BAMBOO BAR

Located on the ground floor of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, The Bamboo Bar is an institution for live jazz music. The inside is moody and stylish, with low lights and mirrored ceilings evoking a 19th-century charm. As for the beverage and liquor concept, it was created by the hotel’s award-winning mixologist team and features a range of original recipes. The names of the cocktails also double as music terms, an interesting and unique way to introduce patrons to the history of jazz. The Bamboo Bar also adheres to a smart dress code, so pop on your best frock and prepare for a lovely night with friends.

Oriental Ave, Khwaeng Bang Rak, Khet Bang Rak, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10500, Thailand T: +66 2 659 9000 W: www.mandarinoriental.com Opening hours: Sun - Thurs: 5pm - 1am Fri - Sat: 5pm - 2am

Hidden away in Bangkok behind a plain timber façade is the Rabbit Hole cocktail bar. The double height interior is furnished in both a raw industrial and luxurious manner. Key among these elements are the concrete floors, the steel staircases, the Middle Eastern carpets and a spectacular wall installation inspired by Chinese medicine cabinetry to showcase an impressive range of whiskies. The cocktail menu has been recently updated, and the bartenders make their drinks with polished technique and finesse. Look forward to a live DJ on Friday and Saturday nights, or stop by during the week for a more relaxing time.

125 Sukhumvit55 (Thonglor), Klongtonnuea, Wattana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand T: +66 98 969 1335 W: www.facebook.com/rabbitholebkk Opening hours: Sun - Mon: 7pm – 3am

VESPER

Famous for its custom-made cocktails, Vesper is one of the sleekest cocktail bars and Italian restaurants in Bangkok. The kitchen is run by chef Luca Appino and showcases a range of simple dishes and fresh produce. Among them is the immensely satisfying and locally sourced chorizo with wild rocket. The drinks offerings are just as impressive, with a solid wine list and all the cocktails choices your heart may desire. As for the interior, expect dark wood and marble tabletops; think European chic. 10/15 Soi Convent Road, Silom, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand T: +66 2 235 2777 W: www.vesperbar.co Opening hours: Mon - Fri 12 – 2:30pm, 6pm – 1am Sat: 6pm – 1am Sun: 6pm – 12am