Bangkok's best new bars this year

What's the vibe? APT 101 isn’t just a club; it’s a retro-inspired space that channels the glamour of 1970s New York with a Bangkok twist. Soft lighting, a crackling fireplace, and mid-century decor create a cosy yet stylish atmosphere perfect for unwinding. Inspired by RH, a legendary New York designer, the space is hosted by a mysterious figure who adds a layer of intrigue. Start your evening at the Pantry with sundowners from 6pm, a relaxed spot for after-work drinks and small plates, with live music setting the tone every Friday. Come May, the Arcade opens – a nostalgic room filled with vintage games and vinyl spinning all night. End your night at the Clubhouse, APT 101’s main stage, where disco house, afro house, and melodic beats keep the energy alive until late.

What to drink: Give crimson velvet (B400) a go – a deep, reddish-brown beauty that’s as bold, smooth and effortlessly stylish as a night spent grooving under the glittering lights.

When to visit:  When you fancy a trip to 1970s New York, but make it Bangkok.

APT 101, 3rd Floor, 233 Sukhumvit Rd (Corner of Soi 17), Khwaeng Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110. 02-821-5813. Open daily 6pm onwards

What's the vibe? This hidden jewel at the boutique Kimpton Maa-Lai hotel is an intimate bar seating just 16 people. Ruby's serves gem-inspired cocktails in the setting of Old Bangkok. Every detail – from the soft lighting to the mixology and bar bites – is comfortable and alluring. Don’t forget to reserve your seats.

What to drink: Try the eponymous Ruby (B440), a gin-based cocktail with jasmine, strawberry, pomegranate and hibiscus.

When to visit: Whenever you need company.

Ruby's, L/F, Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, 78 Soi Ton Son, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330. 020569999. Daily 5.30pm-midnight.

What's the vibe? This is where a dating app becomes a bar. Every detail – from dance floor to banging playlist – is curated to spark connection (or chemistry) and effortless interaction. Who knows, you might discover your prince charming here or bump into your favourite ex. Here's a pro tip: forget about gold memberships on Tinder. Slide in a special request to stand out from the crowd on the big screen, putting you front and centre to get swiped. If you bring your squad, take a private lounge where you can dish up the latest gossip.

What to drink: Start the party with the zesty kick of break the ice (B390), a cocktail guaranteed to loosen lips and keep the conversation flowing.

When to visit: Early evening if you want to catch live acoustic performances.

Empshere, 5/Floor, 628 Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110. 0936616654. Daily 7pm-1am.

What's the vibe? The bar on the first and second floors is adorned with analogue film, photos and camera equipment. It boasts around 18 local and international craft beers on tap, including IPA, ale and lager. What makes this place exceptional is that you can pour your own beer. But stay diligent – it's not an all-you-can-drink buffet, so keep an eye on your bill.

What to drink: Anything from the tap.

When to visit: When you're sweating buckets and need thirst-quenching rehydration.

Apron Bar, 2/1, Samsen 4 Road, Trok Wat Tri Thotsathep, Baanpanthom Sub-district, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200. 0982491644. Daily Tue-Sun 11am-11.30pm, Closed Mon.

What's the vibe? Just along Langsuan, drawing inspiration from the characters in Charles Dickens's debut novel The Pickwick Papers, this bar specialises in gin cocktails – a nod to the favourite drink of many of the book’s characters. Think 1800s backdrop meets steampunk. This two-floor drinking establishment offers the ideal setting in which to unwind. 

What to drink: You'll be blown away by their Gin Flight mixes, whipped up by the masterful bartender exactly to your liking.  

When to visit: Ladies only please on “SipAndSparkle” nights every Thursday, especially if you enjoy free flowing porn-star martinis. As for the rest, you’ll have to sip somewhere else until Friday rolls around.

The Pickwick Chronicles, 76/10 Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330. 0984946727. Daily 6pm-1am.

What's the vibe? Millennials and Gen-Zers missed out on the era of vinyl. At this bar, you'll be greeted by a display of old-school album covers, many of a rare vintage. The set-up blends sleek minimalism and contemporary design to create a sense of quiet luxury. But there's a twist as the night unfolds when a DJ spins records with laid-back energy and gets the crowd on their feet.

When to visit: Happy hour from 6pm-8.30pm daily, it's 20 percent off everything!

What to drink: All drinks are named after high profile international and local artists; we recommend the sweet and sour Taylor Swift, a cocktail true to its name. 

The Label Club, 55 Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Rd, Si Lom, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500. 0636946542. Thur-Sun 6pm-midnight, Closed Mon-Tue.

​​What’s the vibe: Tucked away in a bijou Asoke shophouse, this two-storey venue blends traditional Chinese elements with modernity. The lower level, formerly the owner's family home, is reborn as a private cocktail lounge. The space is awash with dark wooden aesthetics, softly illuminated by the warm glow of candle-lit lanterns in flower-shaped bulbs overhead. Adding to the auspicious charm, the second floor includes a closed-off sipping haven.

When to visit: When you need to sip in a little more privacy.

What to drink: As per the establishment's hallowed name, barflies will feel sanctified by some of their signature beverages such as Bitter is good (B360) and Cup of cha cha (B360) 

Blessing Shophouse, 6, 5 Sukhumvit 14 Alley, Khwaeng Khlong Toei, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110. 0955964655. Daily Wed-Sun 6pm-midnight, Closed Mon-Tue

​​What’s the vibe? Featuring brutalist-inspired architecture lit with intense red glows, Brut is a two-storey speakeasy that radiates a mysterious aura. The place seems to pulse with bold hues that accentuate the minimalistic greyish layout. It feels like a scene straight out of a Doctor Who episode.

When to visit: Steer clear of the crowd and arrive before 9pm.

What to drink: Give their signature cocktail reflection (B360) a spin. Hint, it's gin and tonic with jasmine syrup 

BRUT, 29 Prachanimit 1 Alley Phayathai, Phaya Thai, Bangkok 10400. 0899682828. Daily 6.30pm-midnight.

What’s the vibe? Perched on level 5 at Emsphere, this wine and dine spot is a cut above thanks to its warm and bright hues, laid-back ambience and a dash of the Malibu vibe. It is an ideal spot to hang out with mates for delicious sips while DJs spin live beats. Whether you're a winebibber or a social drinker, the in-house sommelier is ready to curate the perfect bottle of bliss just for you.

When to visit: Weekends are a hot ticket – reserve your seats in advance! 

What to drink: Try a bottle of New Zealand's Odyssey pinot noir (B2010). It pairs very well with a prime medium-rare steak.

1010 Wine Bar & Restaurant, Emsphere, 5/F, 628 Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110. 0991010645. Open Thur-Fri 6pm-2am, Sun-Wed 6pm-midnight.

​​What’s the vibe? Escape the day at this cocktail bar featuring Japanese pop culture themes and motifs – even some of the drinks are straight from Japanese manga comics. You'll be greeted by a frog symbol at the entrance and a dimly-lit interior reminiscent of an emerald pond. The vibes are chilled, with a soothing mix of Japanese hip hop and jazz sound-scaping the background.

When to visit: When you’ve missed your flight to Japan, or want to feel like a big fish in a small pond.

What to drink: The Frog negroni (B490) showcases caffeine and chocolate-y twists. The other ingredients are a secret. 

Frog BKK, 237 Sukhumvit 49 Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110. 0840939993. Open Tue-Sun 5pm-midnight, Closed Mon.

What’s the vibe? Up in thin air at level 46 of Sky Walk Residences, this rooftop cocktail bar is W District's latest gem. Branching out from Cielo Sky Bar & Restaurant, it exudes interstellar vibes and offers jaw-dropping 180-degree skyscape views. Here the cocktails are other-worldly and every sip takes customers on a sensory journey through flavours that are truly space-age.

When to visit: Bring your date by 5.30pm, because you wouldn't want to miss the sunset.

What to drink: Introducing the caster of mom (B312), a cosmic mix of white rum, Lillet Blanc, pineapple juice, milk and coconut green tea cordial.

Nova Social Club, 46/F,  Sky Walk Residences, 1595/500 Sukhumvit Rd, Phra Khanong Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110. 0819164270. Daily 5.30pm-1am.