Saphan Kwai may be only one BTS stop further than Ari, but the area has never taken off with the same amount of restaurants and bars. That's all changing. Here are some of our favorite finds in the area.

 Credit: www.facebook.com/CatOnTheRoofGrillBar

Cat on the Roof

This Saphan Khwai speakeasy is hidden on a rooftop where, thanks to its distance from the city center, you can actually enjoy a view unobstructed by skyscrapers. You will instead be treated to an exclusive eye level view of the BTS running by—but we found there’s something strangely peaceful in this. What makes Cat of the Roof worth the trip is their food menu, which has been crafted by one of the owners, Issaraporn “Bee” Russameererkset, who has experience working in fine-dining restaurants in New York. Try pairing their spicy Thai-style yum salmon sashimi (B180) with any cold beer (B200-B280) for a chilled out, after-work drinking session.

4/F Everyday Sunday Social Hostel, Phaholyothin Rd., 095-046-8824. Open Mon-Sat 5pm-midnight.

Credit: www.facebook.com/WinterBarandBistro

Winter Bar and Bistro

This tiny bar is packed full of goodies. Located in Saphan Khwai’s F&B hub, it may have plenty of rivals close by, but Thonglor’s cocktail nomads simply have to check out the drinks here. We went in with skepticism but came out impressed with what was on offer. Their tasty lychee cocktail, Shine On, is served in a tall martini glass—perhaps a little poncy looking but we enjoyed it. All cocktails are served at B250 or a jug of Singha is only B290. The mixed sausage dish comes with creamy mashed potato is also very reasonably priced at B180.

The Aqua, 490/15 Phahonyothin Rd., 063-829-6244. Open daily 5pm-midnight.

 Credit: www.facebook.com/Camping-Ground

Camping Ground — BK PICK

We love this space! Think Phrakanong’s W District but in a forest. As soon as you walk in, you’ll be greeted by big trees that will make you feel a long way from Bangkok. Instead, this place will seriously remind you of the campsite you used to visit on school trips as a kid. A bottle of Budweiser here will set you back only B105—we actually couldn’t believe it. There are plenty of food options, such as hot dogs and Japanese curry. We opted for the crepe with four toppings, which cost a mere B50.

190/1 Pradipat Rd., 086-300-2999. Open daily 9am-midnight. 

 Credit: www.facebook.com/hsrestandbar

Helter Skelter

Helter Skelter is a far cry from its neighbor—a super Thai karaoke joint, where you’ll be able to spot older men sneaking in to sing songs with female company. This cool venue combines neon lights and dark walls with a vinyl-only soundtrack of soul, alternative, funk, and Motown from the owner’s personal collection combine to give a real ‘80s feel. Their crispy pork stir-fried with salt (B119) makes the perfect accompaniment to a chilled beer (prices ranging from B160-280).

312 Saliratthawiphak Rd., 084-008-8876. Open Tue-Sun 5pm-midnight.

Buff Bar and Bistro

With its wide range of craft beers, Buff Bar and Bistro saves Phaholyothin-Chatuchak locals from trekking far and wide to get their fix, while us central-Bangkokians can also benefit from their offerings whilst we’re out there. The beer list is three-pages long, stocking things like Mahanakhon, Chalawan and 50 other brands, with price ranging from B180-370 For munchies, you can get the Kurobuta pork steak for—hold your breath—B180! We’re pretty sure you won’t find it for much cheaper than that in this city.

9 Sutthisan Winitchai Rd., 062-682-5888. Open daily 6pm-midnight.