Lurking in the rafters above a vast cigar and spirits-specializing boutique called Cohiba Atmosphere, The Balvenie Lounge is blanketed from floor-to-ceiling in rich woods, while a few Christian Develter commissions of Cohiba-smoking celebrities add a modern touch. The drink line-up consists solely of whiskey, ranging from plenty of Japanese names to the Old & Rare Port Ellen 35.

 

One of the most serious beer spots in Bangkok, this tiny bare concrete room has a slightly eerie atmosphere owing to the hospital-inspired decor—think surgical lighting and hospital beds doubling as tables. A rotating batch of 13 beers are on tap, supplied by all the familiar faces (Beervana, Brewdog and Hopsession) plus some new-in-town bottles. Food covers beer-friendly dishes like spicy lamb meatballs on fries (B240) and mac ‘n’ cheese (B240).    

 

The same cozy brunch spot with strong drinks becomes a dark, mysterious and club-esque restaurant once nightfall arrives. No matter when you visit, though, the chili chocolate glazed baby back ribs (B220-390) are a must-order, along with a unique tipple from the bartender’s list of specials.

 

On top of drinking food like karaage, tempura, gyoza and yakitori, this minimalist izakaya deals in shochu and sake-focused cocktails, like Jubei Stormy (sake, ginger beer and lime espuma, B220) and Shoshlet (shochu, gin, lime juice and syrup, B220). Of course, you’ll also find straight-up spirits like Kuro Kirishima imo shochu (B2,100/720ml), Manotsuru Junmai sake (B490/300ml) plus some further 10 labels. Check www.fb.com/jubeiizakaya for happy hours (two-for-one on cocktails, home-infused shot flights) and live music nights.

 

One of Bangkok’s original Mexican taquerias combines a casual, barbecue joint atmosphere with flavorful renditions of Mexican favorites like quesadillas, tacos and burritos. And despite its expansion to two branches in malls, the authentic flavors remain. Visiting La Monita is also an excuse to check out their new tequila bottles on the shelves. Go for a round of margarita shots or a pitcher to share, or opt for a light and spicy michelada (Mexican style beer cocktail that incorporates hot sauce, salt and chili) to beat the heat.   

 

This sake bar is all about dangling bulbs, wooden partitions and patterned chairs for a homey and cozy vibe. Tasting flights and a menu of simple Japanese bites make it a solid choice for an after-work tipple. 

 

Chef Daniel Bucher offers a serious take on Spanish food using as much local and organic produce as possible. Highlights include charcoal-smoked dishes like dry-aged tomahawk steak (B3,000/1kg), Iberico ham croquettes (B170) and seafood paella (B760). To drink, they’re big on gin—Martin Miller’s is used as the house pour, they stock East Imperial tonic and there are some 40 more labels of gin to choose from. 

 

This branch of the Sukhumvit Soi 23 whiskey bar sticks to the same gentleman’s club decor with plenty of leather couches. The highlight is the 500-plus-strong collection of whiskey labels, from both the East and the West, as well as 200 non-Cuban cigars to try. Cocktails are available, too, with food supplied by Osito (see above). Blues and jazz provide the soundtrack. 

 

One of Bangkok’s longest standing nightlife names is down to just the one venue now. In a dimly lit atmosphere, munch on Western favorite dishes like pizza, pasta andtapas. More exciting are the drinks: a long list of wines plus a new focus on gin and rum.