Things to do in Phrom Phong

A staple in Phrom Phong for nearly three decades, Custard Nakamura is a Japanese-style bakery that constantly draws crowds. A franchise from Ichikawa, Chiba, Japan, this bakery prides itself on using imported Japanese ingredients, ensuring a distinct taste that sets it apart from other bakeries in Bangkok. While it offers a variety of sweet and savoury pastries, the standout items include a minced pork sandwich featuring a crispy fried pork cutlet nestled between two slices of fluffy white bread, and strawberry sandwich, which perfectly balances freshness and sweetness. Despite its popularity, the bakery remains relatively affordable, making it a must-visit spot for locals and tourists.

Sukhumvit 33/1, Khlong Tan Nuea, Bangkok. 02-259-9630. Open daily 9am-9pm.

Unatoto Thailand is not just another Japanese eatery – it’s the first international branch of a beloved chain with 20 locations across Japan. Staying true to its roots, Unatoto delivers the same authentic flavours and dining experience as its Japanese counterparts. What truly sets Unatoto apart is its signature grilling technique, which uses a special charcoal stove to infuse the eel with a rich, smokey aroma while achieving a perfectly tender texture. To ensure authenticity, both the eel and seasonings are imported directly from Japan. Diners can savour a variety of cuts and preparation styles, each capturing the essence of a traditional Japanese eel feast.

591, 11-12 Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan Nuea, Bangkok. 088-575-8788. Open daily 10am-9pm.

Found in the Mapengseng apartment building, Unbirthday Café has been a quiet yet consistent presence in Phrom Phong for more than five years. The creation of the team behind Dandelion, it offers a thoughtful take on minimalist, everyday desserts. The name reflects the philosophy that one shouldn’t need a birthday as an excuse to enjoy cake. Each dessert is meticulously crafted, balancing sophistication and warmth. The presentation, from cakes to the thoughtfully curated tableware, adds to the charm, making it an inviting space for those seeking a relaxed yet refined dessert experience.

2/F Mapengseng Apt. 14 Sukhumvit 31, Khlong Tan Nuea, Bangkok. 085-145-3181. Open daily 8am-7pm. 

If you find yourself in need of a hearty morning stop before heading to work, head to Larder BKK. Fast becoming a stalwart of the breakfast scene, it specialises in homemade charcuterie and freshly baked sourdough. In fact, the menu allows customers to mix and match baked goods with cold cuts or opt for curated set meals. The appeal of Larder BKK lies in the experience of personalising one’s breakfast, turning a simple meal into a really satisfying start to the day.

31/2 Phrom Chai Alley, Khlong Tan Nuea, Bangkok. 093-009-4494. Open daily 8am-5pm.

Music lovers in Bangkok have long struggled with the limited spaces dedicated solely to live performances. Recognising this, seven musicians and industry insiders came together to establish Blueprint Livehouse, a venue designed to serve as a hub for diverse music genres, free from the distractions of nightlife culture. From indie and rock to underground and pop, Blueprint Livehouse curates performances that cater to a broad audience. Its mission goes beyond being a concert venue; it provides artists with professional support, from ticketing and promotion to high-quality equipment. The venue isn’t open daily, so check the schedule in advance via social media or Ticketmelon.

2/F, Flowhouse, 120/1 Sukhumvit 26 (Soi Ari) Khlong Tan A Square, Khlong Toei

Butterbear, the mascot of Butterbear Café, has transcended its role as a simple dessert shop character to become a full-fledged pop culture icon. Initially part of the Coffee Beans by Dao chain, Butterbear gained widespread recognition because of its endearing design and viral social media presence, particularly among Chinese tourists. The brainchild of Boom Thanawan, daughter of Coffee Beans by Dao’s founder, Butterbear has even ventured into the T-pop industry with singles that have expanded its fan base. Ultra-fans can meet the character in person at the Butterbear shop at the ground floor of Emsphere, where scheduled appearances take place every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

G/F Emsphere, Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan, Bangkok. 082-930-6333. Open daily 10am-9pm.

Breaking away from conventional shopping experiences, The Hidden Closet offers an open-minded take on intimate lifestyle products. Originally established in Thonglor, the owners have since closed that location and now operate exclusively on the third floor of RR Space in Phrom Phong. The shop sets itself apart with a welcoming and judgment-free atmosphere, in which knowledgeable staff encourage open conversations about pleasure and wellness. From stylish lingerie to a considered selection of personal items, The Hidden Closet aims to curate comfort for all.

3/F RR Space, Main Street Sukhumvit 33. 096-783-8366. Open daily 1pm-12am.

Offering a refreshing take on plant-based cuisine, Golden State Vegan combines Japanese and Californian influences in a space filled with retro, funky aesthetics. This restaurant and cocktail bar specialises in fusion sushi made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, as well as creative plant-based whole foods. The combination of Japanese wabi-sabi elements and California’s culinary scene results in a menu that is both innovative and satisfying. It dishes up a casual yet stylish environment for anyone seeking healthier dining options without compromising on flavour. Fusion sushi has never been this guilt-free

RR Space, 3/F, Main Street Sukhumvit 33. 084-174-7161. Open daily 11am-12am.

More than a cafe and probably Phrom Phong’s best-kept style secret, (un)FASHION District S39 combines coffee culture, culinary treats and eclectic shopping in an inviting shaded setting. The laid-back atmosphere helps to attract a bohemian mix of coffee lovers, foodies and vintage enthusiasts, all of whom can browse through a selection of pre-loved shoes, bags, and accessories and then enjoy a carefully brewed cup of coffee or a delicious meal. The wooden interiors, accented by warm lighting, enhances the cosy ambiance, making it a great place to relax individually or socialise at leisure with friends.

19, 5 Sukhumvit 39, Khlong Tan Nuea, Bangkok. 080-446-1650. Open daily 10am-8.30pm.

For over 20 years, Dasa Book Cafe has served as a beloved refuge for book lovers in Bangkok. The name ‘Dasa’ comes from the Pali language and means ‘slave,’ reflecting the store’s dedication to second-hand books and CDs. Unlike many other similar bookstores, Dasa’s evolving stock is meticulously organised with books categorised by author, making it easy to navigate and find required tomes. The store also offers an online ordering service, allowing customers to browse and purchase books remotely. Whether you’re searching for rare finds or just looking for a quiet place to explore literature over a cup of coffee, Dasa Book Cafe remains a treasure in the Phrom Phong area.

714/4 Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan, Khlong Toei. 02-661-2993. Open daily 10am-8pm.