The buzz: After creating signature drinks for numerous bars and hotels around Bangkok and Thailand, especially those of his friend, nightlife mogul Ashley Sutton (Clouds, Iron Fairies, Fat Gut’z and Maggie Choo’s), mixologist Joseph Boroski has finally found his own permanent home in the heart of Thonglor. But instead of opening yet another bar in this nightlife hub, Boroski offers a real twist by opening this two-story shophouse as a school for both professional and wannabe bartenders.  

The décor: The place can be a little tricky to find if you’re not familiar with the area. Situated between Thonglor Sois 5 and 7, look for a little soi with Kiatnakin Bank and Kano Karaoke out front; the school is situated down the soi on your right. There’s no proper sign so seek out the huge frosted glass door. Inside sees a modern industrial theme with bare red brick walls and lots of black steel. Fully equipped bars run down both sides of the room (the place has a capacity for up to 20 students) with an elevated section where Boroski leads the lessons. There’s also a mezzanine area which has a few seats for an after-lesson debrief but can also be adapted for a private party. This space is also home to a small garden where Boroski grows some classic ingredients, like mint leaves, chili and rose apples, for his cocktails.

The course: Roughly divided into two categories; workshops are open to anyone and no basic skills are required. The course will introduce you to the art of making cocktails and teach you how to mix classic cocktails or any special drinks. Usually there is also a special theme for the classes. For example, this Jul 14, the class is themed Housewives Making Cocktails. It runs from 2-4pm, costs B800 per person and booking ahead is highly recommended. The professional bartending course covers more detailed topics, from cocktail history and knowing your ingredients to bar setup and special techniques. The course lasts 10 hours (two hours a day for five days) and starts at B5,000 per person. Course info is updated on barschoolbkk.com on a weekly basis and bookings can be made online.           

Why you’ll come back: The one-day workshops require no basic skills and are a really fun activity to enjoy with a group of friends. Vasachol Quadri