Bangkok Top 10 Nightlife Experiences

Bangkok at night, especially along the city's spectacular Chao Praya River, is a wonder to behold. For proof of this, look no further than one of many available dinner cruises. While you wine and dine in luxurious surroundings, you'll get a true taste of just how much this city dazzles at night.

Shimmering temples, glistening skyscrapers and a rich stream of passing nocturnal traffic will greet you from every direction. As you lap up the first-class hospitality and delicious Thai food on board your converted rice barge or luxury cruiser, you'll get a true sense of what makes the 'River of Kings' such an evocative spot. Rounding off the experience will be a cool, tropical breeze and romantic candlelit ambiance, making this a simply unforgettable occasion.

Bangkok Loy Nava Cruise
start from THB 1,350

While on board the Tahsaneeya Nava, an antique teakwood rice barge, drift down the most historic section of the Chao Phraya River. You'll pass landmarks like the Temple of Dawn, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the Grand Palace. You'll see ancient buildings and experience the bustle of river traffic on this vital artery. For candle-lit dinner a six-course Thai set menu is laid on, alongside performances of traditional 'kim' music and classical dance.

- Loy Nava Cruise
- Honeymooner Sun Set Cruise

Time:
Loy Nava Cruise - 18:00-20:00 or 20:00-22:00
Honeymooner Sun Set Cruise - 18:00 -20:00

Includes:
- Pick up and drop-off service from major hotels in Bangkok.
- Limited and unlimited open bar are also available.
- Dinner by set menu.
- Live kim musical & Thai Classical dancing.

Excludes:
- Personal expenses such as drinks, tips, insurance etc.
- Other service not mentioned on this program.

Remark:
- Child under 12 years will be applies for child rates
- Join tour min.2 persons departure.

Bangkok Shangri-la Horizon Cruise
start from THB 2,120

Departing from the Shangri-La pier on board the luxury Shangri-La Horizon river cruiser, guests enjoy a sumptuous Thai and international dinner buffet while taking in nocturnal views of Bangkok's majestic Chao Phraya River. Glimmering lights, shimmering temples and many other twilight city sights will greet you as you dine on the River of Kings. On board The Horizon, service is as swift and five-star as at the famous Shangri-La Hotel.

Time:
20:00-22:00

Includes:
- International buffet .

Excludes:
- Personal expenses such as drinks, tips, insurance etc.
- Other service not mentioned on this program.
- Transfer from/to hotel.
- Private group price (Inclusive transfer only)
- Join tour (Exclude transfer)

Remark:
- Child under 12 years will be applies for child rates
- Join tour min.2 persons departure.

Bangkok Manohra Cruise
start from THB 1,350

The Manohra Rice Barge of delegate gleaming wood a romantic venue for a unique and culture experience. The Manohra will guide you on the Chao Phraya River as to introduce you to the City of Angles by night%u2026 a spectacular and memorable experience. Dazzling Thai delicacies are served as to give you a delightful, culture dinning experience, the rice barge can accommodate up to 40 guests on joining dinner or private option. In route you will experience and enjoy the endless variety of river life passing the famous Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn), the magnificent Grand Palace, The Royal Barge boat-house, and numerous other temples.

Time:
19:30-22:00

Includes:
- Thai dinner set menu.
- Free river taxi transfer from Taksin Public pier every 15 minutes to Manohra pier Or pick you up at Taksin pier, Oriental Public pier or Peninsula hotel pier

Excludes:
- Personal expenses such as drinks, tips, insurance etc.
- Other service not mentioned on this program.
- Transfer from/to hotel.

Remark:
- Child under 12 years will be applies for child rates.
- Please arrive at Bangkok Marriot Hotel Pier 19.15 -19.30 or Sathorn Pier at 19.45 (Map)

How to go to Sathorn Pier by BTS
- Please go to Saphan Taksin Station (BTS terminal station) in red circle
- Find sign board for "Hotel Shuttle Boat Pier" < next to Central Pier> and wait at the pier.
- Should you difficulty to find the pier, please contact us at 081 968 0365 or 02 651 9515 or contact the cruise staff at 08 913 90270

Thailand's katoeys are some of the most beautiful - and convincing - transvestites in the world, mostly accepted and embraced by a highly tolerant Thai society. Some families even believe that katoeys bring good luck to them, an enlightened attitude that was boosted by several Thai movies in the past two decades dedicated to katoey themes.

'Beautiful Boxer', for example, tells the true story of a Thai kickboxing champion who became a woman, adored by fans and feared by rivals. Gender reassignment surgery in Thailand is also legendary - not only for the outstanding surgical standards that are maintained, but also because it is one of the most cost-effective places in the world to have it done.

But, back to the ladyboy shows. Most of the performers have had breast implant surgery, and are saving for the 'final curtain' on their manhood. Some shows won't allow them to perform after they've become women, as they won't technically be ladyboys anymore. This rule, however, is not strictly enforced - especially if a performer is a hot favourite with the audience. As a result, Bangkok boasts some of the most famous and fabulous ladyboy shows in the world. These cabaret-like shows pay tribute to the cr-me de la cr-me of the female persona; from Hollywood glam and disco diva to mythical creatures and legends of the Orient, in shows that feature spectacular extravaganza-type sets and costumes. To add some fun, comedy skits are normally thrown in too.

These fascinating and highly artistic performers captivate audiences with their charm, unique creativity and flawless female impersonations. A ladyboy show promises an evening of polished and most enjoyable entertainment for the whole family.

Calypso Cabaret
Founded in 1988, Calypso Cabaret has long been hailed as one of the cabaret show pioneers in Thailand. Conveniently located in the Asia Hotel and easily accessible by BTS (Rajchathewi), Calypso Cabaret delivers extravagant Broadway-style shows, as well as Thai classical dance, a comical Geisha repertoire, Chinese ballads and much more. Two performances are held every night (20:15 and 21:45).

Mambo Cabaret
Said to host the 'Queen' of the drag shows, Mambo Cabaret has all the glitz and glamour that one would expect of a ladyboy cabaret. The show is professional, polished and entertaining.

As with most of the other shows, you will also get a chance to take a photo with the performers afterwards (expect to pay for this privilege). The venue is in the former Washington Theater between Sukhumvit Soi 22 and 24. Show times are at at 20:30 and 22:00 every night.

Golden Dome Cabaret

Located in the Ratchada area. The best way to get there is by taking the subway (MRT) and getting off at Sutthisan station. From there you can either catch a taxi or just walk up Sutthisan Road (which should take 10 to 15 minutes). Golden Dome is at the end of the road. Three shows are held daily (17:00, 19:00 and 22:00).

e it the trendy futurism of Bed Supperclub, the brash mega-clubs of RCA, or a dingy late-night hovel, you'll find that, even with tight closing regulations, Bangkok indeed knows how to party!

Most venues these days are both aurally and aesthetically sophisticated - quality (although not always adventurous) DJing talent, eye-catching venue design and sparkling sound systems. Admission is often free, with the exception of venues showcasing international DJs. These may charge anything from 100 baht all the way up to, and occassionally in excess of, 1,000 baht. Usually this will include one or two free drinks. Most places are fairly relaxed and impose no strict dress codes. Some of the posher establishments though don't like to see flip flops or shorts, and require ID. Make sure you find out before to avoid disappointment.

The following guide has all you need to keep abreast of the scenes comings and goings: what's on, regular club nights, all the best clubs

Sukhumvit Clubs

Bed Supperclub

Bed Supperclub's tubular elliptical structure, sleek white space-pod interiors, exquisite restaurant and house and electro DJs makes for perhaps Bangkok's trendiest, most sophisticated club. The dining area on the left side of the club, or rather dining lounge, subtitutes conventional tables with matresses and oversized pillows, inviting guests to open their minds and sharpen their senses. On Fridays and Saturdays the Supperclub hosts a superlative dining and entertainment experience; guests are encouraged to arrive at 20:30 sharp, as there is only one sitting for the four-course meal.

Seperate from the restaurant, the bar and dance club features a mezzanine overlooking the dance floor. A VJ operates from within the crowd on the upper floor and projects visuals on the huge oval window above the DJ downstairs. Bed has already hosted dozens of critically acclaimed international DJs, including Miguel Migs, Kenny Dope, Blaze, DJ Disciple, Alexkid, Gilles Peterson, Charles Schillings, etc. Besides bringing in top house DJ talent, Tuesdays see Bed play host to its legendary weekly hip- hop night. Wednesdays are models night, and Sunday's are Think Pink, Bed's gay night. Entrance is 600 baht most nights, a bit higher when guest (international) DJs are playing.
Open: 20:00 - 01:00 daily. Restaurant: 19:00 - 24:00 (Monday - Thursday), 19:30 - 01:00 (Friday and Saturday)
Location: 26 Sukhumvit Soi 11
Contact: +66 (0)2 651 3557
Skytrain: Nana

Glow

A diminuitive bar-club fusion featuring lounge beds, long sofas, minimalist interior decor and smart lighting design. It's USP (unique selling point): tables are lit from below through acrylic to create the signature 'Glow' and, like a nocturnal chameleon, the bar adapts its colour (florescent lighting) to suit mood, crowd or sounds.

Quick-handed bartenders mix up your favorite cocktails. Drink prices are pitched slightly lower than at the area's major clubs, and, bravely, the music-policy renounces hip-hop in favour of house, breakbeat and electro. Serve a selection of quality house wines and Tapas.
Open: 18:00 - 01:00
Location: 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23
Contact: 02 261 3007

Q Bar

Dark and sleek, this New York-style bar and club attracts a cosmopolitan crowd and is a running favourite among locals and expats. With over 50 different international brands of Vodka packing out their impressive freezers, 20 different types of tequilas and 50 whiskey brands, and even a few bottles of Absinthe, it's also a booze connoisseur's paradise. Fancy a fine Cuban to accompany that fine Russian vodka martini? This is one of the few bars in Thailand to feature a full line of cigars from Cuba and Don Pablo.

Seven years strong, Q Bar continues to feature top international talent (Derrick Carter, Plump DJs and Afrika Islam, to name a few) as well as play host to an eclectic mix of regular events featuring Bangkok's best hip-hop, house, drum'n'bass and acid jazz spinners. A couple of thing we don't like - the place sometimes feels like a clingy working girls club house, and the doormen seem to have been trained in the surly style of people management.
Open: 20:00 - 01:00
Location: 34 Sukhumvit Soi 11
Contact: +66 (0)2 252 3274
Skytrain: Nana

Silom Clubs

Breaks
A small, low-key space decked out like an underground warehouse party and with a music policy and crowd to match. Reeking of mainstream defiance, 12" record covers hang off the walls instead of the usual generic fittings. These, and the uncompromising nights it hosts, are the joyous end-product of the Japanese proprietor's devotion to rebellious dance music.

Disco, indie, drum & bass, old school hip-hop, electro, roots, techno, Latin - any fresh, edgy sound brimming with attitude gets an airing. If disillusioned with what qualifies as real music in Silom's other clubs, 'Breaks' comes recommended.
Open: 21:00 - 03:00 (Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat)
Location: Soi 2/1 Silom Road (next to Richard's restaurant, up some stairs)
Skytrain: BTS Sala Daeng

Tapas

On groovy and predominantly gay Soi 4, this chic Moroccan grotto is the place to go for Balearic house music. Set in an atmospheric two-storey venue, it attracts a straight, hip and beautiful crowd, the occasional celebrity just itching to be spotted. Live percussionists perform twice a week.

While a great price to chill during the week, it's usually hot and heaving on weekends, especially upstairs. Should the interior's charm turn to claustrophobia, head for the al fresco area out front with its rattan chairs, chatty cocktail enthusiasts and processions of toned men and other night creatures.
Open: 20:00 - 01:00
Location: 114/17 Silom Soi 4, Sala Daeng
Contact: +66 (0)2 632-0920
Skytrain: Sala Daeng

Bikini-clad dancing girls, over-the-top ladyboys and lewd, eye-popping shows... Yes, the Go-Go bars that earned Bangkok its worldwide notoriety are still alive and letting it all hang out. For better or worse, Bangkok's illustrious 'After Dark' reputation owes much to these spots.

The first area that springs to mind is Patpong - Nowadays, having become part of a wider entertainment scene that includes the popular Patpong Night Market, bars, nightclubs and a gay area, it isn't the aggressive red-light district it once was.

Open-minded visitors, lured in by hard-selling touts and their curiosity, treat the infamous upstairs shows like a circus show, coming in for a quick look at the inventive performances, a giggle and a couple of overpriced drinks before heading off to continue their shopping or hit a nearby club (these performances are also dubbed 'ping-pong shows', and a lot of imagination isn't needed to guess the origins of this phrase.)

These are found predominantly at Nana Plaza and Soi Cowboy, red light districts both situated on lower Sukhumvit Road. Depending on the current level of police interference, both offer explicit shows featuring girls in various stages of undress; usually uniforms, bikinis or pretty much nothing bar a coy smile and a dash of Burberry Weekend. Nana even has its own on-site 'guesthouse' for clients.

Bangkok is a sprawling, frenetic metropolis and outside a small number of spectacular temples it has few (if any) examples outstanding architecture. Yet this mass of seething humanity is home to a disproportionate number of five star hotels.

Along the banks of the Chao Phraya itself are the Shangri La, the Sheriton, Peninsular, Marriott, Millennium Hilton and the Grande Dame of Bangkok's luxury hotels the 140-year-old Oriental. Away from the river the list of top notch hotels is even longer, the Banyan Tree and the Sukhothai on Sathorn Road are both spectacular hotels.

Now while many of the world's hotels consider that they offer something unique or at least different in dining and drinking experiences nothing comes close to the sky-high bars-with-a-view that three of Bangkok's better hotels provide. These restaurants are the Millennium Hilton's 360 bar, the Banyan Tree's Vertigo Grill and Moon Bar and the Sirocco at the State Tower.

The 360 Bar is a Chao Phraya landmark seemingly peering over the top of the Millennium Hilton it looks like many people's idea of a flying saucer that has precariously settled atop the hotel.

With its 360o view this-jazz bar is the only public space that provides a total panoramic view of Bangkok and Thonburi and a large reach of the Chao Phraya.

The great thing about shopping in Bangkok is that most malls and department stores stay open until at least 21:00 - and some even as late as 22:00. So there's plenty of time to make the most of the city's attractions during the day, and fit in a bit of retail therapy either before or after dinner. Many markets offer great after dark shopping opportunities too - and incredible bargains in the moonlight. The two most popular after dark markets are undoubtedly the Patpong Night Market and Suan Lum Night Bazaar.

Patpong Night Market



The Patpong Night Market in Soi 1 has always been one of the 'must-do' night shopping destinations for tourists. The place is busy and chaotic from the moment the sun sets with all the commotion from the Go-Go bars nearby and lots of people, locals and visitors. Many stalls are also set up along Silom and Suriwongse Roads.

You can find virtually anything from pirated CD's and DVD's, designer knock-offs, replica watches like 'Rolexes' that should last for at least a few weeks (unless you're going for the pricey 'super-copies') and leather goods stamped with brand name logos, to the usual touristy crafts and souvenirs. Because of its popularity, prices are usually quite inflated.

The good news is that bargaining is the norm, and if you maintain a friendly and assertive approach, you'll be thrilled with the deals you'd be able to clinch. As for the rest of Patpong, it is notorious for good reason. (Read more...)

Shopping tip: Don't ever make an offer for something if you're not prepared to pay the price. A good place to start negotiations is for half the asking price (except CD's and DVD's, of which the prices are pretty much fixed - unless you're really stocking up).
How to find it: Take the Skytrain (BTS) to Saladaeng, or the subway (MRT) to Silom.

Suan Lum Night Bazaar


Suan Lum Night Bazaar is the city's first official night bazaar. The market is smaller and easier to navigate than its day counterpart (Chatuchak), and is complemented by an international open food court and lively beer garden, where local bands blast out local and international favorite tunes. The stalls offer the usual tourist-friendly mix of Thai craft, textiles, silverware, jewellery, home decorative items, home furniture and so much more.

The whole place is well worth looking around or you can just sit down, unwind, and watch the world around you go by while sipping on draft beer and trying to avoid chillis in your 'somtam' (spicy papaya salad). While you're there, make the most of your trip by witnessing a Thai traditional small puppet show, Joe Louis Puppet Theatre, which has recently been awarded 'The Best Cultural Performance' at the 10th World Festival of Puppet Art in Prague. Not to be missed! Open daily from 18:00 onwards.

Khao San Road Shopping



Khao San Road is literally bursting with things for you to spend your precious baht on. Its abundance of travel shops can supply you with all your logistical requirements - flight, train and bus tickets to your next destination - while the area's tailors will give you some much needed sartorial elegance, cutting you a sharp suit ready for when you arrive back from island jumping.

Essentials aren't neglected either, with chemists, convenience stores and monetary exchanges dotted around. A big must in Thailand is a compelling read or two for the beach, and there are several of the city's best second hand-book shops scattered around where you can trade in your old books or buy a new one.

A world class spectacular performance of Thai art and cultural Heritage with amazing state of the art special effects. Travel back through time into the history and culture of the Kingdom of Siam. You will be amazed and captivated by journey back into History, journey beyond imagination and journey through joyous festivals. You can also find yourself at the Thai village where the unique architecture, music and costumes are revived. Not only can you see how Thailand delicate and ornate handicrafts are made, you can try to create them yourselves!

Bangkok Siam Niramit Show
start from THB 1,200



This combines an authentic Thai buffet with a world-class stage show depicting Thailand's historical and spiritual heritage. With over 150 dazzling performers and state-of-the-art special effects, it's a captivating journey. The first act describes how Siam became a cross-roads where civilizations met, the second how karma binds Thai people, the last how religious ceremony earns Thais merit in this life. Also visit replica villages from the country's rural regions and buy Thai handicrafts.

Time:
17:00-22:00

Includes:
- Transfers from/to all major hotels in Bangkok.
- Thai dinner and Thai cultural performance

Excludes:
- Personal expenses such as drinks, tips, insurance etc.
- Other service not mentioned on this program.

Remark:
- Child under 12 years will be applies for child rates
- Join tour min.2 persons departure.

How to get there:
Tiamruammit Road, opposite Thailand Cultural Centre
MRT: Thailand Cultural Centre Station, Exit 1
Free shuttle bus service every 15 minutes from 6:00 pm. - 8:00 pm.

Thailand is a highly tolerant country where sexual preference is regarded as a personal choice when it comes to homosexuality. Gays, lesbians and transsexuals are all accepted as part of the Thai way, inspired by the teachings of Buddhism. Gay harassment is virtually non-existent. Thai people - both gay and straight - are also known for their sweet, friendly and polite natures. All of this have contributed to making Thailand a prime gay tourist destination, with Bangkok often being dubbed as the gay capital of Asia.

To celebrate this diversity and freedom, gay pride events are held annually in the three major tourist destinations: Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket. The first Bangkok Gay Festival was organised in the Silom and Surawong area in 1999.

The inaugural event was the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, with participants dressed in extravagant, over-the-top and flamboyant costumes, cheered on by thousands of spectators. The lavish parade and decorated floats attracted both local and international crowds. Definitely a feast for the eyes, Bangkok Gay Pride usually takes place in late October or early November in the Silom area. Make sure you're close to the action; staying in hotels around the Silom area will guarantee you a front seat!

Bangkok gay nightlife is as fun, exciting and wild as the straight scene (if not more). Wide-ranging gay venues in Bangkok offer everything from gay-friendly hotels and guest houses to pubs, clubs, bars, karaoke venues, ladyboy cabarets, go-go bars, massage parlours and saunas.

But before you do so, it's important to take note of a few things. As is always the case when you're traveling in a foreign country, it is vital to comply to the laws of the land. Firstly, the punishment for drug offences are severe in Thailand. So too sexual liaisons with under-aged persons. At the same time, be street-wise. The same traps that can be found in the gay scene of any other big city also apply to Bangkok.

For those looking for live bands, Bangkok bears superb spots appealing to all sorts of musical tastes. You'll be able to listen to great tunes in a number of settings, ranging from loud and lively pubs, to dimly lit bars and classy hotel lobbies, performing anything from jazz and blues, to rock, pop and metal. For information on special touring gigs in Bangkok, have a look at our What's On-Concerts & Shows section.

Also have a look at our Club Guide and Pubs, Bars & Lounges section

Sukhumvit:
Bar Bu Ree

Open: 17:30 - 02:00
Location: 59 Sukhumvit Soi 63, Ekamai Road
Contact: +66 (0)2 392 4976- 8
Skytrain: Ekamai

An attractive, modern place catering towards Thai's and Japanese. The menu reflects this, as mainly Thai dishes and sushi are on offer. A large bar bar offers a wide varity of drinks, while in the same area up to three bands perform nightly, playing everything from bossa nova to classic rock.

Bombay Bar

Open: 19:00 - 01:00
Location: Soi Thonglor
Contact: +66 (0)2 714 7800
Skytrain: Thong Lor

If you'd like to see how locals party and have fun, Bombay Bar is the place to check out. One of the top clubs for Thais, Bombay Bar covers a fairly big spread over two floors. It's usually frequented by very young night-lovers - university students or, let's say, people in their 20's. Drinks are nothing special and prices are average. Mainstream music is played until a certain time and then a rock band takes over; expect Thai songs and a vibrant Thai nightlife scene.

Isaan Champroo Blues Bar & Restaurant

Open: 17:30 - 1:00
Location: Sukhumvit Soi 24
Skytrain: Phrom Phong

An unusual combination of north-eastern Thai (Issan) and Japanese food attracting a clientele who appreciates good live blues served up with a menu of Isaan/Japanese food. The owner Ken encourages jam sessions, joining on harp on Thursdays.

Mojo's

Open: 16:30 - 02:00
Location: 10/20 Sukhumvit Soi 33/2, Wattana
Contact: +66 (0)2 260 8430
Skytrain: Phrom Phong

Quality live soul, jazz and funk all get a look in at this popular large saloon pub. However, blues is its 'raison d'etre' - each night one of five local blues bands churns out some of the best in town. Its size doesn't dampen the atmosphere, later in the evening the place really buzzes. Barbeque grill cooking and lip-smacking burgers are almost as popular as the sounds.

Sundowner's Jazz Club

Open: 17:00 - 02:00
Location: Imperial Queen's Park Hotel, 199 Sukhumvit Soi 22
Contact: +66 (0)2 261 9000
Skytrain: Phrom Pong

A good place to meet before heading out, or to enjoy cool jazz with friends. Live music is played on most nights.
Tokyo Joe's

Open: 18:00 - 02:00. Music starts at 21:30
Location: Sukhumvit Soi 24, in the Snaporn Plaza building
Skytrain: Phrom Pong

A small smoky blues joint with good blues and food, live music is played here seven nights a week. From the up and coming bands to professionals, musicians in the local, expat community, and seasoned veterans on the Asian circuit, Tokyo Joe's keep blues alive and well in Bangkok. The food and drink menus feature Thai, Japanese and international specialties.

Witch's Tavern

Location: 306/1 Sukhumvit 55 (Soi Thong Lor)
Skytrain: Thong Lor

Located in the up and coming Thong Lo Road, this upscale pub offers a mix of Thai and Western food. Live music every night. Wednesday is Ladies Night.
Other Areas:
Ad Here the 13th

Open: 17:00 - 00:00
Location: 13 Samsen Road, Banglamphu

Stripped down to the raw essentials - bar, tables and instruments - Ad Here the 13th is a diminutive blues and jazz spot that never fails to make a big impression on those who find it. Only on weekends, when the earthy sounds and people spill out on to the street would you notice it on passing - it's a tiny hole in the wall. Despite the bare, bohemian feel there's a warm, welcoming atmosphere that attracts Thais, discerning tourists and expats in equal numbers. A resident blues band with a loyal following plays nightly from around 22:00. Occasional special events and frequent jams by other locals ensures a bit of variety for the regulars. Beers are reasonably priced at 60 to 70 baht. Well worth finding.

Bamboo Bar

Open: 11:00 - 01:00 (Sun to Thurs), 11:00 - 02:00 (Fri to Sat). Music from 22:00
Location: The Oriental Hotel
Contact: +66 (0)2 659 9000 ext. 7690-1
Skytrain: Saphan Taksin

An international legend, The Oriental's Bamboo Bar is considered by discerning Jazz fanatics to be the best live jazz spot in town. The sandy tones, palm fronds and furry patterns of the interior lend it a relaxing jungle-theme ambience that oozes class, sophistication and style. An upmarket but interesting crowd works the intimate setting, all enjoying the internationally acclaimed jazz singers and bands on its books, and savoring the fabled surroundings. Flawless cocktails and service, as you would expect. Pricey, but the experience makes it well worth it.

Brown Sugar

Open: 17:00-02:00. Music from 21:30
Location: Soi Sarasin, Lumpini
Subway: Lumpini

Smoky, cool, great musicians, in need of a bit of refurbishment, friendly and laid back. Just as a good jazz club should be. Located around Soi Sarasin among a batch of small music venues, Brown Sugar has hosted a number of international artists and a local expat favourite. Good nightly jazz sessions are held at 23:00 by two resident bands, while weekly guest bands are on the rotation. Credit cards accepted.

Diplomat Bar

Open: 10:00 - 01:00
Location: The Conrad Hotel, 87 Wireless Road, Phatumwan
Contact: +66 (0)2 690 9999
Skytrain: Ploenchit

An elegant hotel bar in the heart of Bangkok's embassy district makes; the perfect haunt for the passing ambassador, visiting dignitary or aspiring spy. Most evenings, however, it's a high-profile crowd comprised of wealthy businessmen, rich Thais and glitzy couples that fill its sprawling nooks and crannies. Beautifully lit, its soft silk couches, striking round bar and wooden interior make for a very chic cocktail ambiance - cool and contemporary. Rounding off the countless touches of class found here are the accomplished acoustics - a world-class jazz singer croons each night except on Sundays. The cocktail and wine lists are suitably inspiring.

Hard Rock Café

Open: 11:00 - 1:00. Music from 21:30
Location: 424/3-6 Soi 11 , Siam Square
Contact: +66 (0)2 251 0797
Skytrain: Siam

Kicking off from around 22:00, the live bands found playing here are normally of very high quality. Of course, it's rock you'll hear. Although slightly cramped around the bar area, especially when the band begins, over the weekends it is a great place to meet people. On weekends the music can really get the people moving and the place turns into an impromptu dance club. Happy hour is between 17:00 and 20:00.

JazzITBangkok

Open: 20:00 - 02:00 (every day except Monday)
Location: RCA Block C, Rama 9 Road
Contact: +66 (0)2 203 1053

This new and unique Thai- Italian disco features an impressive Italian wine list, Italian and Thai dishes, as well as Italian and Thai DJ's spinning deep house, Latin house and Brazilian house. Live vocalists and percussionists are also thrown in the mix between sets. The club's live band plays the latest pop / rock hits as well as popular classics on certain days.

Jesters

Open: 6:00 pm to 10:30 pm
Location: 333 Charoen Nakorn Road, Peninsula Hotel
Contact: +66 (0)2 861 2888
Skytrain: Saphan Taksin

On the opposite side of the river to the Oriental Hotel. Frequented by the upmarket and trendy set for jazz bands and status.

The Living Room

Open: 09:00 - 00:00
Location: 1st floor, Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, 250 Sukhumvit Road
Contact: +66 (0)2 6498888
Skytrain: Asok

Set in a relaxed, cosy atmosphere on the first floor of the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, this is a big, stylish venue that hosts a top-notch Jazz band or musician every night. Enjoying its plush leather couches and warm acoustics is a typically middle-aged clientele. Alongside the jazz talent, great wines, cocktails and champagnes help get things shuffling. Between 15:00 and 18:00 on Saturdays there's 'The Grande Afternoon Tea'. And on Sundays there's a 'Jazzy Brunch Buffet' between 11:30 and 15:00. Book well ahead.

Muzik Café

Open: 18:00 - 02:00
Location: 1/f,81-83 Patpong 1, Silom Road
Contact: +66 (0)2-266-4567
Skytrain: Sala Daeng

Sister to Radio City and Round Midnight, this semi-open air venue features live music from several bands throughout the week. Starts around 21:15 and goes on till late. A great atmosphere in the heart of Bangkok's girly bar district, make this an ideal place to start your rounds.
Noriega's

Open: 16:00 - 01:00
Location: Silom Soi 4
Contact: +66 (0)2 233 2813
Skytrain: Sala Daeng

At the end of infamous Silom Soi 4, Noriega's is a little gem of a bar / live music venue. Downstairs are live blues, soul, indie and rock bands, featured nightly. Upstairs the restaurant menu features a modern blend of Thai, Tex-Mex, Italian and European favourites. Happy hour is daily from 16:00 - 21:00 where drinks are 100 baht (150 baht regular price.)

Niu's on Silom Jazz Blues Bar and Restaurant

Location: 661 Floor 1-2 Baan Silom Arcade, Silom Road (between Soi 17 and Soi 19)
Contact: +66 (0)266 5333
Skytrain: Surasak

Niu's on Silom is one of Bangkok's world-class venues in a warm, elegant yet intimate habitat, where the perfect combination of Italian Cuisine, Live Jazz, Blues & Soul bar are ready to be your choice of indulgence. At Niu's you can find a concert of fantastic live music, excellent cuisine and first-class service.

Radio City

Open: 19:00 - 02:00. Music from 22:00
Location: Patpong 1
Skytrain: Sala Daeng

Downstairs from Lucifer's disco, Radio City has Elvis and Tom Jones impersonators backed by a good local band right in the middle of Patpong.

Saxophone Pub

Open: 17:00 - 02:00
Location: 3/8 Victory Monument Phayathai
Skytrain: Victory Monument Station

Local expat favourite with some excellent musicians and a relaxed fun atmosphere. Consistently good music,

Tatty Euro taverns and hip design bars are just a couple of players on Bangkok's ever-evolving boozing scene. Everything from fine brown ales to head-spinning cocktails and binge-drink inducing deals are yours for the downing.