Soi Nana was one of Bangkok’s first clusters of shophouses, built back in the early 1900s. After being left unattended for years, this small neighborhood has found a new lease on life as a cocktail bar district, thanks to pioneering spots like Teens of Thailand and Tep Bar, which began making waves in 2015. The initial buzz drew in new players, and a few years later, Soi Nana has transformed into one of Bangkok’s top bar districts, perfect for hopping between some of the city's best drinking spots. Here’s where to start.
Hidden behind giant vintage wooden doors covered in quirky stickers, Teens of Thailand is one of Bangkok's pioneering gin bars, opened by celebrated barman Niks Anuman-Rajadhon in 2015. This chill, grungy bar is credited with breathing new life into the once-abandoned Soi Nana, transforming it into a cocktail-drinking quarter near Chinatown.
76 Soi Nana, Khwaeng Pom Prap, Khet Pom Prap Sattru Phai. 081-443-3784. Open Daily 6pm-1am
While other cocktail bars serve imported liquors, Tep Bar elevates Thai spirits and local drinking culture to a new level. Creative cocktails are crafted with local liquors sourced from across the kingdom and served in traditional containers. Don’t miss the flight of three ‘ya dong’ (herbal or infused Thai whiskey) – it's quite a knockout. Adding to the unique atmosphere are live traditional Thai music performances with an upbeat twist.
69-71 Soi Nana, Khwaeng Pom Prap, Khet Pom Prap Sattru Phai. 098-467-2944. Mon-Wed 6pm-midnight, Fri 6 pm-1am, Sat 5pm-1am, Sun 5pm-midnight. Closed Thu
This Chinese-themed corner bar draws you in with vivid LED lights and eclectic decor, but what keeps you there are the drinks and food, inspired by Chinese ingredients and herbs. Picture cocktails inspired by bird's nest, ginseng, and even braised pork sauce.
8 Soi Nana, Khwaeng Pom Prap, Khet Pom Prap Sattru Phai. 062-464-5468. Mon-Thu 5pm-midnight, Fri-Sat 5 pm-1am, Sun 5pm-midnight.
Another gem from the godfather of Nana bars, Niks Anuman-Rajadhon, Asia Today specialises in aromatic drinks made with different types of honey sourced from various regions in Thailand. The life-sized shark installation hanging from the ceiling is perfect for your Instagram feed.
35 Soi Nana, Khwaeng Pom Prap, Khet Pom Prap Sattru Phai. 097-134-4704. Open Daily 6pm-1am
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