Nana's slow but steady journey to gentrification pushes on with the opening of The Bar Upstairs, a new wine bar venture of Soho Hospitality, aka the people behind Havana Social and Above Eleven, as well as Brasserie Cordonnier, the French restaurant downstairs. The Bar Upstairs, however, has a different entrance, one that takes you through a winding staircase covered with lush, leafy vines. This short expedition sets the tone for what to expect inside: a bar that’s all decked out with rustic wooden furniture, and a smattering of both artificial and real plants.
So you’ll have an idea on how serious they are about their wine, The Bar Upstairs has built two wine cellars: the first is reserved for selections priced at less than B1,000, while the second holds more premium bottles. The wine list explores more than 170 labels, with the most affordable wine going for as low as B160 per glass (for Spanish wine Ave de Presa Premier 2015, which is a steal at this price). The selection also puts the spotlight on biodynamic bottles like the flavorful 2012 Massaya Classic Red from Lebanon (B2,850 for takeaway).
If you’re not an oenophile, head mixologist Davide Sambo has also created refreshing cocktails inspired by flowers and fruits. We particularly love Spring Time, an aromatic gin-based drink that mixes thyme liqueur with cardamom and olive oil (B300). Larger parties can also indulge in cocktails made for sharing, such as Picnic in Provence, which benefits from the sweet-and sour flavors of red fruit-infused rosé wine (B600/small, B1,100 large).
The Bar Upstairs has asked help from its sister restaurant below to roll out casual French-inspired bites. The Croque Monsieur (B290) is tasty, while the beef tartare (B750) is delightful. Groups can share the Chef’s Picnic (B1,700), which is big enough to feed up to four people. An order comes with baguette slices, cold cuts, pickles, cheese, terrine (try the duck) and dessert.
Wine bars in Bangkok are usually associated with costly extravagance and mediocre food, but The Bar Upstairs may just be one of the exceptions. Its wine selection, and dimly lit and vibey setting makes The Bar Upstairs perfect for pregame, while the sumptuous food makes it a good option for dinner. (We wish they can open for brunch, though).