Bangkok’s bar scene is thriving with six brand spanking new bars to start the year off. Dry January is over, thank all the gods, so now you can hit up these fresh drinking dens. 

 

 

Drawing inspiration from the coastal town of Tulum, also known as the summer haven for the elite. Tulum Sky Bar stands as Bangkok’s newest jungle rooftop bar, located on the 29th floor of Movenpick Ekkamai. The expansive rooftop bar pays homage to the Mexican Caribbean, featuring sculptures reminiscent of the Mayans and adorned with Aztec patterns on the walls, thatched light fixtures, and hanging vines. For entertainment there’s DJs spinning tropical tracks and jungle style performances featuring pole dancing, Latin moves and fire shows. Drinks are mostly tequila based, like the Aztec Fire Potion that’s fired up with tabasco to compliment the tequila and milk punch. For something lighter, try the fruity Cenote Caramel Splash with Jose Cuervo, pineapple, passionfruit, and salted caramel.  

 

 

 

Maria Bar, located in Phra Khanong is a new jazz and wine spot. The ambiance of the space is Renaissance-inspired, with a blend of classical decor but not appearing overly-styled or too new. The concept took root at their W8 Space on Soi Charoen Nakhon 10 which opened in 2022, and the idea initially started as a cafe during the day and transformed into a wine bar in the evening. The interiors feature espresso wood finishings, candles, Corinthian headboards, pleated curtains, and natural stones, all contributing to a romantic space. The bar offers a selection of four signature drinks and a wine cellar and serves up a full menu featuring charcuterie boards, burrata salad, hamachi carpaccio, pasta, striploin fried rice, and tenderloin steak.  

 

 

 

The Ang Yi speakeasy draws its name from the clandestine Chinese societies that emerged in the 19th Century Thai-Chinese communities. The concept served as a communal haven for Chinese immigrants, offering a familiar refuge away from home. The ambiance is rustic and charming with dim lighting, traditional Oriental decor, and exposed cement walls. The drink menu at Ang Yi features unique concoctions, including the Yaowarat Park, a gin-focused beverage, highlighting refreshing melon and ginger notes embellished with oasis sponge and flowers. For a personalized experience, guests can embark on a “choose your own adventure” by shaking three sticks, similar to the fortune-telling ritual. Each stick reveals a set of ingredients that the bartender skillfully improvises to craft a drink for the adventurous guests. 

 

 

 

Under the guidance of bartender, Supawit “Palm” Muttarattana, a name well-known amongst F&B enthusiasts, Dry Wave emerged as his first solo venture. Palm, with a career spanning since 2009, has overseen popular nightlife establishments in Bangkok, from the new nightclub Fuchsia to the award-winning cocktail bar Vesper. The venue finds inspiration in the natural world, especially in the trees and the seas. The rippling effect produced by the light fixtures and patterns is reminiscent of a sunset by the sea.The drinks at Dry Wave are “super classic,” blending two traditional favorites into one glass. Expect innovative combinations like mai tai with tom collins and negroni with espresso martinis.

 

 

 

Who doesn’t love a novelty bar? Pickwick Chronicles in Lumpini is inspired by Charles Dickens' first novel, “The Pickwick Papers.” The drinks are designed by resident cocktail expert Gabriel Robet Gilga, former bar manager of Havana Social, and include flights of gin, signature cocktails that are inspired by The Pickwick Papers, and wine. The space is set over two floors with a bar on each floor, equipped with bar seating, sofas, and an outdoor zone. There are also “Industry Nights” on Mondays and Tuesdays with buy-one-get-one deals, and ladies’ night is held every Thursday with discounts on Prosecco.