9 things we love about the Chao Phraya River right now
Big community malls and properties are on the way, but here's why we love the River of Kings.
10 years ago
For us, the highlight of this renovated four-story shophouse is the rooftop—the perfect bar for sipping house-blended cocktails while kicking back to the killer views of Wat Arun across the river.
39 Soi Ta Tien, Maharaj Rd., 02-622-1388. Open daily 5pm-1am. www.salarattanakosin.com
2. Santichaiprakarn Park
At the bend of our all-time favorite drinking street, Phra Arthit Road, Santichaiprakarn Park makes for a great place to unwind by the river. Over the weekend it’s often frequented by buskers, musicians and jugglers. Several months back, a group of swing dancers also gathered here to dance under the moonlight. This November the charming park will play host to the annual Bangkok Theatre Festival. We only wish it were open later.
3. The Jam Factory
Not many new community hubs manage to be as diverse as Duangrit Bunnag’s The Jam Factory. Boasting a gallery, Candide bookstore and Never Ending Summer restaurant, it has hosted various activities like outdoor screenings on its lawns as well as the latest dance piece by Jitti Chompee. That’s more like it!
41/1-5 Charoennakorn Rd., 02-861-0950. Open 11am-11pm.
4. Samsara
We adore this secretive restaurant, tucked down a little alley behind Wat Pathumkongka in a charming old wooden house. Some of the owners hail from Japan, and this shows in the form of Japanese touches augmenting the tasty Thai cuisine. With its friendly and all-around cozy vibe, a lie-down on the terrace is a must (reservations required for the best views).
1612 Songwat Rd., 086-978-9331, 02-639-6853. Open Tue-Thu, Sun 4pm-midnight, Fri-Sat 4pm-1am.
5. Balco
Located on the roof of River City, Balco allows you to look down two watery boulevards dotted with high-rise five-star hotels. But the real reason we love this hard-to-find venue is because it rarely gets crowded, so unlike many of the spots along the river, you’re guaranteed a good seat without having to book ahead.
5/F, River City Shopping Complex, Charoenkrung Rd., 084-928-6161. Open Tue-Sun, 7pm-2am.
6. Bang Krachao
Bangkok cyclists will agree with this one. The Bang Krachao peninsula, widely known as Bangkok’s green lung, is a real gem. This oasis might feel like another world (and appear out of town on maps), but it’s only a few minutes’ boat trip away. There’s also the eco hotel Bangkok Tree House for those who want to stay overnight.
7. Chao Phraya Tourist Boat
We admit the idea of a daily commute by boat isn’t the most appealing. But a one-day boat trip (B150, 9:30am-4pm) can be a lot of fun if you fancy being a tourist in your own city for a day. The Chao Phraya Tourist Boat takes you to all the famous attractions like Tha Tien Market, National Museum and the beautiful Wat Arun. Simply head down to Central Pier (BTS Saphan Taksin).
8. Small Riverside Cafes and Bars
From Vivi The Coffee Place (394/29, Soi Pan Suk, Maharat Rd., 02-226-4672) with its clean and simple décor, to the Thai-style 342 Bar (Arunamarin Soi 18, Soi Wat Rakang, 02-412-7234) or the The Deck at Arun Residence (36-38 Soi Pratoo Nok Yoong, Maharat Rd., 02-221-9158), there are a number of places to get a laidback drink and bite along the river—if you know where to look.
9. Viva & Aviv
While tourists and antique collectors may strike gold at River City, for us the main draw, along with Balco (see #5) is this riverside al fresco bar. Hop over early for laidback afternoon drinks before things get groovier at sundown.
River City Shopping Complex, 23 Yotha Rd., 02-639-6305. Open daily 11am-midnight.
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