9 of Bangkok’s most jaw-dropping bars

In Bangkok, The Bookshop bar defies gravity with its upside-down shelves and books that appear to float in mid-air.

On the other side of the city, Tawandang German Microbrewery is housed inside a massive beer barrel, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

Located in CentralWorld’s vibrant Groove wing, Tales of Gold Mine transports you to a late 19th-century U.S. gold mine during the Wild West era.

Of course, a beautiful design doesn’t have to be over-the-top to leave a lasting impression.

From a charming Parisian-inspired pub to a breathtaking rooftop bar, here are nine of Bangkok's most visually captivating spots to enjoy a drink.

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1. Smalls

A luxurious blend of deep red curtains, intricate Rococo tiles, and modern art adorn this intimate, atmospheric bar on Suan Phlu Soi. Over the past year, it’s become a surprising hotspot in an area now known for its collection of cool, relaxed bars and eateries.

Spanning three levels of a corner shophouse, Smalls is the latest creation from David Jacobson, who initially gained fame as the owner of the now-closed Q Bar, and Bruno Tanquerel, his partner in the vintage-inspired French absinthe bar Le Derriere.

“We’re not fans of sleek, corporate-style bars, and the whole industrial cement-and-wood aesthetic with black steel windows is way overdone,” says Jacobson.

“We aimed for a laid-back, quirky Parisian vibe that’s easygoing and doesn’t take itself too seriously.”

“Above all, we both value originality in design, and love crafting spaces where people immediately feel at ease.”

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2. A R. Sutton & Co Engineers Siam

Australian Ashley Sutton made a huge impact on Bangkok’s bar scene when he arrived in the late 2000s, completely transforming its aesthetic and atmosphere.

His journey began with the creation of Iron Fairies, a whimsical bar with stunning ironwork that became an instant hit, sparking a wave of copycats.

He went on to further cement his reputation with eye-catching designs at The Bookshop and Mr. Jones’ Orphanage, among others.

Sutton’s newest project (and currently his only bar) is the cozy A R. Sutton & Co Engineers Siam.

The venue radiates a curated sense of eccentricity, with its artfully arranged brass fixtures, coiled lighting, and eclectic vintage furniture.

In other words, Sutton’s unmistakable design style is all over this place.

It also doubles as a gin distillery – be sure to try the signature Iron Balls gin – as well as Sutton’s personal workspace.

3. Maggie Choo’s

At Hotel Novotel Bangkok Fenix Silom, a subtle wooden door marks the entrance to this hidden underground oasis, designed by – you guessed it – Ashley Sutton.

Although Sutton is no longer involved, not much has changed since the Fico Group took over. It remains one of the most alluring spots in town to enjoy fine wines, cocktails, and late-night jazz.

Inspired by a classic Oriental-style speakeasy, Maggie Choo’s exudes mystery and style, from its secretive private rooms behind steel doors to the dim ambiance, plush decor, and beautiful patrons lounging on wooden swings.

There’s also a delightful Thai-Chinese restaurant on-site, adding to the venue’s charm.

4. The Bar at The House on Sathorn

After three years of renovation, the 126-year-old colonial mansion on Sathorn Road has reopened as one of the city’s newest hotspots for dining and drinks.

Once home to the Russian embassy, The House on Sathorn is now part of the W Bangkok next door.

The interior design honors the mansion’s rich history, drawing inspiration from both Russian and Thai royal opulence.

Many of the original elements, including the facade’s color palette and the interior design, have been preserved.

Signature cocktails offer an Asian-inspired twist, such as the Diva – a blend of Belvedere vodka, Patron Citronge, coconut water, and rose and jasmine syrups.

5. Namsaah Bottling Trust

Namsaah Bottling Trust is impossible to miss – a Thai-fusion bar/restaurant housed in a century-old villa with bright snow-white shutters and a striking solid-pink facade.

The building, which has served as a soda bottling office, a bank headquarters, and a royal adviser’s residence, is now adorned with beautiful regional fabrics, antique furniture, and bold Oriental decor.

This place is backed by some serious star power, including renowned Thai chef Ian Kittichai, whose global portfolio spans successful restaurants in Mumbai, Hong Kong, Barcelona, New York, and Bangkok.

At Namsaah, the menu is fun and inventive, featuring dishes like salmon tartare wonton tacos.

The cocktail menu offers creative mixes like a tangerine negroni and a Thai rose apple martini.

6. Tep Bar

After living in Melbourne and Singapore, Kong Kangwarnklai returned to Bangkok and noticed how, in the city’s rush to adopt global trends, the essence of traditional “Thainess” was becoming increasingly outdated.

“The interesting thing is that the current trend in Thailand is pretty Westernized,” he says.

“But at the same time, it’s essential to stay connected to your roots.”

Kangwarnklai’s response to this is Tep Bar, which he co-founded in 2015 with three partners.

Located in a two-story, century-old shophouse in the vibrant Soi NaNa area, just outside Chinatown, Tep Bar showcases its Thai heritage through cocktails made with ya dong (a local herbal whiskey) and other indigenous ingredients, along with nightly performances of traditional Thai music.

One of the most striking features of the space is the mix of gold-covered bricks set against the raw concrete walls – a nod to the ancient practice of burying golden Buddhas in cement to protect them from invaders.

7. Sing Sing Theater

If an opulent night out in ancient China could be envisioned, it might look something like Sing Sing Theater (or simply, Sing Sing).

Inspired by the design of an ancient Chinese courtyard theater and the lavish brothels of nobility, Sing Sing boasts full-on Chinoiserie decor, including oil-paper umbrellas, lanterns, and metal birdcages.

Secret passages, hidden speakeasies, and symmetrical staircases add to the venue’s air of intrigue and mystery.

Since its opening in 2015, Sing Sing has become one of the hottest nightlife destinations in town.

Bathed in a red glow, the club projects a classic 20th-century film onto a metal screen each night.

Live shows, ranging from mesmerizing burlesque to hilarious comedy performances, are a regular occurrence.

Sing Sing Theater, located at Sukhumvit 45, Bangkok; call +66 09 7285 6888.

8. Teens of Thailand

Tucked just around the corner from Tep Bar, the minimalist gin bar Teens of Thailand embraces the charm of its restored shophouse, letting the building's history speak for itself.

Well, almost – the suggestive photos decorating the raw concrete walls certainly intensify the atmosphere, matching the exceptional cocktails crafted by expert bartender Niks Anuman-Rajadhon.

"Our bar's concept and design are simple: preserve the original features," says Gunn Lee, the mastermind behind ToT's music, design, art, and marketing.

"When we first arrived here, we knew tearing it down and building something new wasn't our style."

9. Red Sky

One of the many mistakes in the 2011 film The Hangover Part II, with its clichéd portrayal of Bangkok, was choosing the wrong rooftop bar to film – the true gem is just down the road, at Red Sky on the 55th floor of Centara Grand at CentralWorld in Pathumwan.

Debates about the city's top rooftop bar may be endless and subjective, but this chic 55th-floor terrace consistently delights its guests.

Famous for its sweeping, color-shifting arches and glowing bar, Red Sky offers stunning panoramic views from its plush couches and glass-railed deck that encircles the entire level.

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