The buzz: From the masterminds behind Hyde & Seek comes the newly-realized Viva & Aviv, located right by the Chao Phraya, at River City Shopping Complex. As expected, this place serves interesting cocktails with high quality, sometimes unusual ingredients. The place feels much more rustic and relaxed than its sister bar, and is in the process of adding a food menu and extras.

The décor: A naval theme with a dash of industrial chic and pirate-inspired interiors—the bar is made out of old wooden crates, with lobster traps accessorizing the walls and sailboat hardware hanging from the ceiling. A mini tiki-style bar near the entrance sells cocktails “to-go,” complete with straws and plastic cups—classy! The outdoor seating is simple with a ground floor view of the river.

The music: Live DJ spinning house tunes.

The price: Cocktails range from B200-280, such as the Piña Colasi (Appleton Jamaican rum, fresh pineapple, orange and black pepper syrup, citrus and fresh young coconut foam) for B200. Beers range from B90-120 (by the bottle) and Singha is the only draught option so far (B170/pint).

The crowd: For now, friends of the owners and the occasional tourist.

Why you’ll come back: Cocktails here are only a touch cheaper than at Hyde & Seek, but the vibe is more relaxed and if you’re tired of the busy nights on Ruamrudee, you’ll enjoy the view of the river more than the over-dressed-to-impress crowd. Melissa Davidson