The buzz: Apart from the famous Spring and Summer, Sukhumvit Soi 49 is pretty dry on the nightlife scene, especially when comparing it to near neighbors Thong Lor and Ekkamai. Still there are some signs of life with the opening of Shots 49, a comfy but upscale sports bar that also has a legit food menu alongside some fancy booze.

The décor: It’s pretty compact, given the normally cavernous Irish-themed sports bars we’re used to. No faux wood paneling here—instead, Shots 49 looks to offer a contemporary vibe. It’s decked out in black leather sofas and low black tables giving it a plush gentleman’s club feeling. There is a big LCD screen along the wall and a pool table surrounded by mirrored walls next to the bar. There’s also a tiny outdoor space but it’s more for people to grab a smoke than somewhere to enjoy the night air.

The music: International and Thai pop hits in particular.

The crowd: First jobbers, some university students and members of the nearby Racquet Club.

The price: Cocktails B130-170 (try their signature Snow White Revenge, which is apple vodka with caramel and sugar on the rim served in martini glass). Imported Hoegaarden is for B240/pint while bottled brews range from B160-250. There’s also a daily buy-one-get-one-free happy hour on local beers.

Why you’ll come back: Sports fans looking for something a little more sophisticated than the usual expat sports bar may find Shots 49 is right on target. Vasachol Quadri