At the end of last year, thousands of Bangkokians made their way to Sukhumvit Soi 77 for the closest thing Bangkok ever gets to having an actual outdoor Christmas Market. The Winter Market Fest #3, held across San Samran Bridge within the project called T77, showed how the area has become more than just a collection of faceless condos, but also a real community with a neighborhood spirit. Here’s what we love about the area:

1. It’s basically a street-food heaven

The fancy restaurants of Sukhumvit and high-end bars within Thonglor are all a stone’s throw away, but we Bangkokians live on street food. With the disappearance of Sukhumvit Soi 38’s many stalls, some of the city’s best late-night haunts can now be found in Onnut. You’ve got the legendary mhoo tod and rad na at Kiang Aroi, famous for their Thai-Chinese food since their days operating as a shop-house in Yaowarat. For some spicy Isaan food, locals all know Lamduan which is located in front of Soi 52. And for something a bit more exotic, the latest to join the pack is Numthien by Khanta, a Thai-Szechuan joint that has come all the way from Phetchaburi. Try the milky tofu dessert there, too. Even Sukhumvit Soi 38’s famous Mook Tao Teung, makers of the legendary itim kai kaeng, has relocated to Onnut Soi 9 (open from 11am-midnight).

2. There’s a range of chill openings for you to kick back  

Get sweet and cozy with Onnut’s many chill-out cafes. You’ve got the second branch of Bangkok’s legendary freakshake specialist, David’s Bakery, whose milky drinks are heaped with cookies and whipped cream. Too cute? Hipster haven Ageha Cafe, one of the newest openings on the block, stocks a range of indie CDs and vinyl records curated by Hope the Flower’s guitarist. It also shares its space with Brownstone, a popular venue for indie music events. Finally, you can find a taste of Japan with the karaage (breaded, deep-fried chicken) at Trica Hostel, also a new addition open since March. The cafe is tastefully decorated, and the karaage recipe is guaranteed to be authentic as the place is run by Japanese owners.

3. Fashion-conscious guys and girls are spoiled for choice

Standing right around the corner of Soi 7, Cycam has been open for a little over three months. The three-story orange building is a cyclist’s dream, operating as a showroom for high-end brands like Jamis, Rotwild and Sarto. It also imports sports gear and accessories from Germany and Italy. Moving in further into Onnut Soi 66, Haus of Jewelry Studio is a high-end jewelry and furniture store that stocks items from local and international brands. Owned by Yolwaree Sathyanawin, the studio has some of the most elaborate decor themes, from Safari jungle to the current modern-pop Pink Passion theme—truly a sight to behold. They’ve also just launched their first line of furniture made of marble and wood that makes for an elegant and timeless look. Note: open by appointment only.

4. Things can get downright quirky

Onnut Soi 8 is home to Pyong Yang Arirang Restaurant which serves up shabu and barbeque, which the owners say are truly North Korean dishes. Meat sets start at B129, and the waitress will be walking around to cut the meats and even grill them for you. But don’t expect a fancy fine-dining experience; the interior is very basic and homey. You’ll also be asked very nicely to not take photographs, for that genuine North Korean vibe.

5. Winkreative has curated its own little retail utopia.

Officially launching this month, three-story community mall Habito was created in collaboration with Winkreative, the design agency founded by Tyler Brûlé, the tastemaking editor behind magazines Wallpaper* and Monocle. As a result, Habito serves up international cuisines that range from Thai-style shabu (Papa Shabu), Korean fried chicken (Choichoi Chicken), Vietnamese street food (Muine) and Japanese sushi (Teien), with more set to open throughout the month. The highlight at the moment though is the co-working space on the third floor, Hubba-To. In addition to the slick design of the duplex, there are also studios that members can use to practice their arts and crafts, from a darkroom for film development and a ceramic pottery room to a food lab capable of hosting a foodie gathering. The floor below operates as a coffee shop for April Story, Bangkok’s aeropress coffee specialist that has come all the way from Samyan. And the views of the lake are a lovely bonus.

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