One of Thonglor’s most recognizable landmarks is not a bar nor restaurant, but a pharmacy located at the very beginning of Sukhumvit Soi 55. This drugstore has been around for over three decades, servicing the neighborhood’s residents and passersby. But from now on, this place will do more than dole out medicinal treatments for illnesses—its upper floors have been converted into a new hang-out spot that proves why good food and drinks can be healing.
First Aid Kiss is run by the same owners of the pharmacy, and is situated on its third and fourth floors. The new cafe goes for an obvious concept: a drugstore. Snacks and drinks are named with reference to popular pills and remedies, and are infused with herbal ingredients. Relaxol (B150), for instance, is a cold-brew coffee mixed with bael and longan juice, while Inspirin (B125) is a milk-based coffee drink with hints of pandan.
Non-coffee drinks include Love Potion (B150), which boasts a refreshing blend of lemongrass tea and yuzu pulp; and Hangover (B130) is a light drink that mixes strawberry and watermelon.
You can pair these drinks with a croissant (B120), which is served with jam by Chiang Mai brand Tasty Herb (choose from Mango Sticky Rice, Orange Perilla Seed, or Champagne Strawberry.) Or nibble on soft cookies (B90), which come in eye-catching shades—a blue one takes its color and flavor from butterfly pea with coconut, while a yellow one is heavy on chrysanthemum and honey flavors. For something more indulgent, go for First Kiss (B200), a silky-smooth chrysanthemum pudding served with black tea.
First Aid Kiss offers the perfect respite if you just want to clear your mind and recharge with creative comfort fare. The posh mid-century decor and furniture are a welcome bonus. After all, if you’re going to heal your spirit, why not do it in style?
In the very near future, First Aid Kiss will operate as a bar come evening.