Newly opened Chinese-inspired bars and restaurants in Bangkok

Chinese theme have been enjoying a resurrection in recent years, with bars, cafés and restaurants displaying either retro or modern interpretations of this rich and colorful culture. Dai Lou, a Cantonese eatery in Ari, is next to take on the trend, displaying photogenic Chineseinspired décor, and serving progressive tapasstyle food with catchy names. Dai Lou, which means “big boss” in Cantonese, constructs a fictitious influential Chinese elite that people usually associate with Chinese movies (think The Bund and Infernal Affairs). Thus, the dining room is designed to represent the house of a Hong Kong boss man, but one with more subtle tastes. Instead of walls clad in red and gold, and gigantic Chinese statues, Dai Lou goes for white brick walls, globe lights and steel bar stools. Its courtyard is clad entirely in teal-colored mosaic tiles, inspired by the walls of subway stations in Hong Kong. The “big boss” is evidently a canine lover, as showcased by a dogshaped neon sign at the entrance, as well as dog “lucky charms” placed on each table. The menu is equally modern, featuring small dishes named after significant areas in Hong Kong. The crispy pork belly (B220) is named after Wan Chai, an area in the Chinese territory where people usually flock to savor the same dish. At Dai Lou, it’s a heavenly treat of crispy skin and tender meat, complemented by a sweet dipping sauce made from a “secret recipe.” Chek Lap Kok (B320), named after Hong Kong’s international airport, is a

This casual Chinese eatery in Soi Sukhumvit 49 combines traditional home-cooked Teochew cuisine with hipster-friendly decor, inspired by a vintage Hong Kong diner.

Soi Sukhumvit 49, 06 1056 5636. BTS Thonglor, Open daily 11:00-24:00

This new speakeasy-themed bar in Saphan Kwai takes the theme of a retro pawn shop and mahjong gambling house to the extreme, while serving cocktails with Chinese influences.

488 Phaholyothin Road, 06 2490 5126. BTS Saphan Kwai. Open Mon-Sat 19:00-02:00

The restaurant at Rosewood Bangkok epitomizes flavors of regional Chinese fare, and tea-injected cocktails

Rosewood Bangkok, 1041/38 Ploenchit Road, 0 2080 0088. Open daily 11:30-15:00, 18:00-22:30