First dates are always stressful. After the initial excitement of landing one comes the immediate question of where and what. You want to leave a good impression, but don’t want to come off as trying too hard. Most likely, you’ll settle with a bar; it’s casual, fun and a socially acceptable environment for you to down some drinks until the jitters fade away. But the wrong bar—loud music, snobby vibes—can also throw off the entire night.
To help take some stress away from what should be an enjoyable time, we have rounded up some of our favorite spots that we think are the perfect backdrop for getting to know each other. From classy hotels to casual cocktail bars, our top five picks for this winter are a guaranteed good time. You can thank us later when you get that text back the next day.
JUA
What: You’ve heard the saying “a picture paints a thousand words,” but did you know that restaurant selection might just paint a thousand more? JUA says you are hip and cool and enjoy exploring outside your comfort zone (a.k.a. Sukhumvit). This modern Charoenkrung izakaya features an expansive terrazzo bar with countertop seating and a drinks (and food) menu that’s hard to beat. On weekends, the place can get pretty crowded with expats and hip young couples. On any other day, you’ll get a quieter and more intimate setting. Come for dinner and stay for drinks, or simply stop by at the end of the night for a glass of sake—or two.
Why: Charoenkrung is an up-and-coming neighborhood with much to do. Make it a full-day date and explore Bangkok’s Old Town before dinner and drinks at JUA. If all goes well, you can also move to Tropic City next door for a more upbeat scene.
28 Charoen Krung Rd (next to Tropic City)
MARCHWOOD
What: Located just a stone’s throw away from all the chaos that is Thonglor nightlife is Marchwood, an all-day spot that transforms from a chill café to a natural wine bar at night in Ekkamai Soi 12. The cozy atmosphere makes you feel like you are hanging out in your living room listening to a five-out-of-five Spotify playlist while sipping organic wine and eating cold cuts. How does this not sound amazing?!
Why: Picture this: You’re already in the area and are having a good time. The restaurant you’re in is closing soon but you don’t want to call it a night yet. Where can you go that will allow you to continue the conversation without the notoriously underaged crowd of Thonglor at 11PM? The answer is Marchwood.
Ekamai soi 12
CACTUS
What: When Bangkokians want to escape, they head to Hua Hin or Pattaya for the weekend. When Angelenos need a weekend getaway, they drive two hours east to Palm Springs. Located in Yen Akat, Cactus brings the California desert to our city. The founders specifically picked this building to open their bar in because it is surrounded by large green trees; it inspired them to incorporate the outdoors into their concept. Aside from the space, the cocktails don’t disappoint either.
Crafted by world-renowned Joseph Boroski, the drinks are designed to be refreshing yet strong. And though Cactus doesn’t have a food menu, it’s conveniently located in the same building as Cagette Canteen & Deli. Order a charcuterie board up to share.
Why: Sure, there are a number of rooftop bars in Thailand; however, we guarantee there’s none that gives you the same laid back vibe as this Yen Akat address. Trade the cityscape and Chao Phraya River views for the greenery at Cactus. On a nice evening, warm up behind the fire pit with your glass of low-ABV West Hollywood Spritz.
15 Yen Akat road
008
What: For somewhere safe and classy, head to 008 inside the Akyra hotel. When you find the wooden door on the 11th floor, step inside and be prepared to be transported back to a glamorous ’80s retro bar. 008 serves spirit-forward cocktails by award-winning bartender Pailin Sajjanit. Everything from the menu, theme and live jazz down to the interior are inspired by the Prohibition era. Expect signature beverages crafted with the bar’s esteemed collection of alcohol, which includes over 120 different types of liquor and rare whiskeys from around the world.
Why: You cannot go wrong with 008. Sit back and relax with a glass of 008’s signature cocktails, take in the live band and enjoy the panoramic view of Bangkok’s most bustling street with your date.
Eight Thonglor compound, Thonglor
JACQUELINE
What: Siri House is just what this city needed: a quiet, tropical getaway in the heart of Bangkok that allows you to escape for a moment. Named after former First Lady Jackie Kennedy, Jacqueline is an elegant cocktail joint inside Soi Somkid’s new spot. The menu pays homage to the popular American martini culture that the Kennedy-era was known for, while the mid-20th century interior is filled with feminine accents that Jackie-O herself would have approved.
Why: It is always a fun time at Jacqueline. The modern mid-20th century home is a relaxing backdrop for what could be a nerve-wracking night. Though the place can get a little crazy during weekends, there are enough seatings—indoor and out—for you to find a private corner to sit down at.
Siri House, 14/2 Soi Somkid
Writer: Uracha Chaiyapinunt
After graduating from the University of Southern California’s Annenberg School of Journalism, Uracha Chaiyapinunt moved home and started working full-time at one of Thailand’s leading luxury furniture retailers. Her time in Asia and America has instilled in her a love for road trips, national parks, unique travel experiences and the Dodgers. She has been featured in Eater LA, Travel + Leisure Asia, Cape + Kantary Magazine and more. When not at her 9-to-6, you can find her googling conspiracy theories late into the night. Follow her on Instagram: @urachac.
