This story is part of BK's series on Bangkok's under-the-radar neighborhoods.

See more: Phahon Yothin Soi 18/1 | Sukhumvit Soi 69 | Soi Sena Ruam | Sathorn Soi 8

Thararom Soi 2, Thonglor

Between Thonglor sois 18 and 20 is a street whose peaceful vibe and picturesque, leafy appearance is atypical of this bustling neighborhood. While Thonglor is full of swanky clubs and bars, walking into this semi-residential soi is a breath of fresh air. Besides the rows of dream townhouses, Thararom Soi 2 boasts cool bars and authentic Japanese eateries.  

Restaurants & Bars

Pass by glitzy wine bar Bottoms Up (888 Thararom Soi 2, 02-381-8020) and its row of supercars, and head straight for Shades of Retro (808/12 Thararom Soi 2, 02-714-9450), which after 17 years remains one of Thonglor’s most iconic bars. Surround yourself with old-school surfboards, Vespas and other bric-a-brac and sip on an ice-cold beer while listening to the funkiest sounds this side of Studio Lam. During the day, coffees start at B60 for an espresso. Further down the soi are two relatively new Japanese restaurants—the Instagram-worthy Hyotan Kappo (812 Thararom Soi 2, 061-516-1777), which does oden (Japanese stew) and sashimi, and Sobakiri Gonoji (810/2 Thararom Soi 2, 02-130-6212), which specializes in home-kneaded soba noodles. Last but not least is 12 x 12 (810/22 Thararom Soi 2, 094-260-4713), which is basically every hipster’s wet dream. Duck inside the low door frame and you’ll be greeted by a soundtrack of world music and a homely setting of couches and other mix-and-match furnishings. 

Cafes

Nestled in this soi is also a hip cycle cafe, Velayenn (808/15 Soi Thararom 2, 080-900-2610), which puts a precedence on vintage wheels. Stop in to peruse a few books about fixies, and enjoy a drinks list that includes Italian soda (B50) and some coffee (from B50). A bike service here starts from as little as B50 and a clean will cost you B300. While the emphasis here is more about providing the works for your bike, from time to time they also sell second-hand bikes.