Joanna James
Exuberant vibes, lively street life and, most of all, a bountiful selection of chic bars – you certainly won't have to go without wetting your whistle in bustling Bangkok. Treat yourself to a sundowner at an elegant rooftop bar or hit a couple of rounds that set you up for a fan-freaking-tastic night.
Tucked away in the back end of the once-famous nightlife strip of Sukhumvit Soi 11 is a quaint little Cuban corner bathed in old-world charm. The secret bar, Havana Social, is sure to treat you to an experience like no other from the get-go with its undeniably bizarre entrance – a retro phone booth, upon the dialling of the secret code, swings open the doors to the marvellously hidden bar. Walk through the old-school phone booth and into the bar and be enchanted by dim yellow-hued lights, crumbling walls, and exposed beams. Don't forget to treat you to a few classic cocktails along with Cuban sandwiches and Cuban cigars.
Immersed in the peace and quiet of Soi Nana, just a hop, skip and a jump away from the bustle of Chinatown, is an ideal spot for evening refreshment. Tep Bar draws most of its crowds thanks to its authentic homemade Thai herbal whiskey – ya dong – served in gold-coloured tin offering cups with a bite of mango, wild honey, dill, lime and gold leaf, on a large golden ornamental bowl. Grab a stool at the bar and the bartender would be more than happy to take you through the history and local culture of the very ya dong that your taste buds relish.
Push open the heavy wooden doors beneath the rather seamy-reading sign on Soi Nana, and you'll find yourself in a tiny little bar in an arty-crafty setting. The reason for the moniker, Teens of Thailand – or Teens, as it is known locally – is unclear and sees drinkers of all ages. You will find no more than 20 seats, which makes grabbing a seat at this boxy little bar a challenge in itself, as it is said to have the best in town.
Ambient lighting, exposed brickwork, Parisian-inspired décor and soothing soft jazz – nothing says a relaxed, laid-back evening indulgence like the charming Smalls bar in Sathon, Bangkok. Snuggle into one of the many cosy nooks or make your way up to the roof terrace, where a bar bursting with an assortment of drinks and breathtaking views of the glimmering Bangkok skyline awaits you.
Treat yourself to the ultimate nightclub experience in Bangkok by making your way to Sing Sing Theatre. Imbibe boozy cocktails and dance the night away in the spirited, intoxicating ambience. Complement your night of revelling by heading over to one of the best places of fine dining in Bangkok, including the likes of Avani Atrium Bangkok.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
