Trekking the streets of Old Town, sometimes you stumble upon century-old relics. In Bangrak—amid the vibrant street food, Michelin-star gems a la Samlor, and a stone’s throw away from cultural tourist attractions—sits Prince Theatre Heritage Stay, a classic stand alone cinema renovated into a cozy hostel and hub for local events.

 

 

Once upon a time, the Prince was a royal casino, opening in 1912. A few years later, silent film boomed and the venue refashioned itself into a standalone cinema. During the Golden Age of talkies, the theater flourished with screenings of Hollywood, Thai, and Hong Kong blockbusters. But with the arrival of mall cinemas, standalone theaters began to go out of business. 

 

Starting from the 80s, the Prince adapted with the times by screening adult films (and you can still check out the archival posters in the backroom). It was only in 2017 when Montara Hospitality, in charge of decorated restos like Pru and Trisara, turned it into a heritage stay. 

 

 

The most recent renovation, which was completed in January of this year, brings in a multifunctional quality to the hostel. The main lobby includes an event area complete with an elevated wooden stage, plush red curtains, and a floor-to-ceiling projector. 

 

There’s also a co-working nook with strong Wifi and a day-to-night bar and resto with office workers grabbing a quick bite. 

 

 

As a community space for tourists and locals, the Prince features elements that point to other walking distance local gems. For example, the vintage posters in the lobby are sourced from Balzac, the recently opened Francophone cafe selling second hand movie posters, books, trinkets, and other collectibles. 

 

 

Look closer at their all day menu and you’ll discover familiar names like Sarnies’ famous sourdough bread being used for their toasties. 

 

We recommend the breakfast sandwich (B250) which is a combo of gooey melted american cheese, strips of bacon and your choice of cooked egg packed in between Sarnies slices and ready for that satisfying crunch.

 

 

Their day time activities usually include Thai language classes and walking tours. During our stay, we went on an evening promenade that weaved through the streets of Charoenkrung to Talad Noi, hitting up trendy spots like Warehouse 30 and hole-in-the-wall hawker stalls. 

 

 

Movie screenings are a weekly staple at the Prince. At night, we caught the award-winning indie sci-fi romance “The Day I Found a Girl in the Trash”. The script was written only a few blocks away.

 

While enjoying a cozy screening, you can casually order some bar grub, grab a bag of popcorn, and check out their movie-themed classic cocktails. We opted for the Rick Dalton (B260), Leonardo Di Caprio’s character in “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” but in whiskey sour form.

 

 

In place of their casual dining area at the lobby, the renovated venue has added more cushy sofas and director chair seats fit for viewing theater performances, stand-ups, your favorite sports, and could be cleared out for weddings, office parties, and birthday bashes. Ultimately, it’s a budget friendly spot with an old school charm that’s also a great starting point to explore the rest of the neighborhood.