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Phrom Phong, known for its luxury shopping and trendy cafes, is also home to some of Bangkok’s most exciting bars. With a blend of elegance and laid-back charm, the area is a hotspot for cocktail enthusiasts and night owls alike. From rooftop lounges with stunning skyline views to hidden speakeasies, Phrom Phong brings a variety of bar concepts together in one neighbourhood. There’s no better way to dive into a city’s nightlife than by hopping from one bar to the next, discovering heady cocktails, cosy atmospheres and hidden gems along the way. And in Bangkok, Phrom Phong is the ultimate bar-hopping destination. So, now is the time to grab your friends, pace yourself and explore this dynamic drinking district. Here are our picks to get you started.

Who can resist the charm of a delicious doughnut? Whether you’re indulging in a post-meal dessert or satisfying an unexpected sweet craving, doughnuts remain a timeless and irresistible treat. With their fluffy dough, endless flavor combinations, and creative toppings or fillings, they’re far more than just a simple ring of fried dough.   In Bangkok, the city’s undeniable sweet tooth is on full display through the abundance of doughnut shops scattered across town. Each one brings its own flair to the classics while offering inventive twists to satisfy the ever-growing demand for sugary indulgence. But which one reigns supreme? Join us on a mouthwatering journey to discover the best doughnuts in the city!

Chiang Mai is a city full of vibrant colours, offering something for everyone – whether you're exploring ancient temples, immersing yourself in nature, or relaxing in its cosy cafes. Nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is rich in heritage and culture, historically the centre of the capital of the Lanna Kingdom. Today, it stands as one of Thailand’s most popular destinations, surrounded by lush hills and the Ping River that runs through the city. Over time, the city has evolved, embracing a modern, creative energy. You'll find stylish boutique hotels, green co-working spaces and a thriving university scene. Many of these places stay true to the city’s culture, allowing visitors a genuine taste of the essence of Chiang Mai. Here are eight must-do experiences to make the most of your time in Chiang Mai. Did something on this list and loved it? Share it with #TimeOutDoList and tag @TimeOutEverywhere. Find out more about how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world.

Traditional Thai beauty rituals, passed down through generations, reflect the healing power of nature and the country’s culture. These practices combine timeless wisdoms with natural elements, offering a gentle and holistic approach to self-care. Thai herbs and flowers, such as lemongrass, jasmine and lotus, have long been cherished for their soothing and restorative benefits.  Today, a number of local beauty brands incorporate modern touches and Western influences through marketing and eco-friendly packaging, offering products that balance the traditional with the contemporary. In the whirlwind of modern living, where stress and fatigue are common challenges, exploring Thai wellness options leads to natural healing and the chance to reconnect with timeless traditions. Here are the Thai brands reflecting this beautiful heritage. 

In recent years, Thai cinema has been capturing global attention, earning its place on international streaming platforms. Netflix, in particular, has been actively curating a collection of Thai films. The Thai film industry has grown and expanded over the years, blending traditional storytelling with contemporary aesthetics. Drawing inspiration from classic Thai cinema, filmmakers have skilfully crafted narratives that resonate with both local and international audiences. The result is a diverse catalogue of films that beautifully bridge cultural heritage with modern sensibilities. Below, we've compiled a curated list of must-watch Thai films available on Netflix, featuring a compelling mix of timeless classics and exciting new releases that allow you to experience Thai culture through the lens of the Thai people.

One of the most culturally rich streets in the city with historic buildings over a century old, Soi Nana preserves a timeless charm. But peep behind the period façades and you’ll find renovation taking place, with fresh bar concepts giving many vintage structures a new lease of life.

A lively neighbourhood conveniently accessible via the BTS Skytrain, Ari is the place to look for colourful cafes, art community spaces, shopping outlets, and dining spots with a cosy atmosphere. Undergoing gentrification all the time, it nevertheless blends the old and new, as witnessed in by its many choices of street food and contemporary dining. Ari has a strong sense of community, where every corner tells the stories of the people who live there. It’s a great place to discover the culture of Thailand, experiencing it through the everyday lives of its locals. The highlight of Ari today is its popularity as a food and drink hub. What makes the neighbourhood stand out is the blend of the latest dining spots and long-established restaurants, all set in a calm atmosphere – no rush here, just a relaxed vibe. You can begin your day with a coffee and pastry at a cosy café, followed by a rejuvenating session at one of the area’s peaceful spas. A stroll around the neighbourhood invites window shopping and art gallery displays, perfect for enjoying the sunny weather. As the evening approaches, the local restaurants and bars offer the ideal setting to enjoy great food and drinks. Ari is the ultimate one-stop destination for a relaxing, feel-good day.

Koh Samui, Thailand’s second-largest island, offers an intriguing mix of lush rainforest, coconut groves, and calm beaches, giving travellers plenty of ways to slow down and settle in. Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is a sun-soaked getaway, and a place where laidback beach days can be balanced with market nights, local street food, and visits to serene Buddhist temples situated among the hills. Whether you’re keen on snorkelling in clear waters, exploring the island’s culture, or just taking it slow under the palms, Koh Samui lets you find your rhythm, no rush required. RECOMMENDED:The best hotels in Koh Samui Did you tick something off this list? We’d love to hear about it! Share the fun with the hashtag #TimeOutDoList and tag @TimeOutEverywhere!

Designed as an authentic sake bar and izakaya, Hanakaruta feels like it was teleported straight from Japan. From the moment guests step inside, they are immersed in Japanese culture. The highlight of the space is a striking floor-to-ceiling liquor cabinet showcasing a bewilderingly diverse selection of Japanese spirits and sake. Their signature is take sake served in a 500ml bamboo flask, which further enhances the fragrance. Careful though, it packs a punch and you’ll be limited to just three flasks per visit! The menu here ranges from small bites to more substantial dishes and includes authentic sushi rolls and tempura. Sukhumvit Soi 39, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana. 02-662-7339. Open daily from 6pm-2am. 

An old wooden door welcomes you into a classic setting in which wooden tones and brown décor are complemented by warm gold accents. Vintage photos adorn the walls, adding to the nostalgic charm. As night falls, the atmosphere transforms with the glow of red lighting creating a more intimate experience. The cocktail menu offers both classic and signature creations, each inspired by the owners’ personalities and passions. Hendrix’s Garden reflects one owner’s love for music, blending pandan syrup and smoked rosemary for an aromatic twist. Biomimicry brings a refreshing edge with pickled lime, wasabi and celery topped with tonic and finished with an oba leaf garnish. For a playful touch, the S10 Shake takes inspiration from the iconic milkshake scene in Pulp Fiction (1994), serving up a nostalgic yet inventive sip.  5/F, Sukhumvit Soi 24, Khlong Tan, Khlong Toei. 02-550-6820. Open daily from 6pm-midnight. 

This venue is based on a sound-room and wine bar concept that encourages guests to boogie the night away. The owner aims to create a chilled atmosphere with a twisted bar experience for those who want to dance. Other types of live musical events are held here, including khaen and phin performance. The rotating wine selection consists of around 50 labels that range from sustainable natural varietals to sparkling bubbly. Wines by the glass, which change daily, are also available, so every time you visit Salon Kiku, you’ll find something new. 4F, Studio Lam. Sukhumvit Soi 51, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana. 092-281-4426. Open Tue-Sat 7pm-12am. Closed on Mon-Sun. 

After featuring as a filming location in One for the Road (2021), the bar retains a film set vibe. From neon signs and red lighting to a mini fish tank and a vintage phone booth, every detail is preserved to reflect the aesthetic vision of directors Wong Kar Wai and Nattawut Poonpiriya. The cocktail menu is also inspired by the film’s characters, with signature drinks including Alice’s dance, Noona’s tears, after the rain and WKW (Wong Kar Wai). Whether you're looking for a dimly lit, classic setting to unwind or you're a true cinephile seeking a moviecore experience, this bar is the perfect place to escape into a cinematic world.  Sukhumvit Soi 31, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana. 02-004-2429. Open daily from 7pm-2am. 

Decorated in a vintage-meets-tropics aesthetic, this bar serves as a social space where guests can enjoy music, engage in conversations and explore crafted drinks. Dim lighting, lush greenery and walls adorned with classic photographs set the mood. The standout feature is a tiger-eating-snake design on the ceiling positioned above a large table surrounded by animal ceramics. Live DJs perform every Thursday to Sunday. The drink menu carries a distinctly Japanese influence with cocktails such as Jun-ai, Kannoh, Tasogare, Seishun and Omakase. 6/F Japan Building, Sukhumvit Soi 26, Khlong Toei.  062-182-7339. Open daily from 8pm-3am. 

As its name suggests, things get a bit funky here with food made into drink and vice versa. The space is designed with a modern aesthetic and is a cosy spot from which to take in city views. Menu highlights include hamachi crudo tart made with yuzu-pickled melon and pickled cucumber with chilli oil. Green curry cocktails take inspiration from the classic dish, blending spice-cured gin with coconut fat-wash, pineapple juice, cucumber, toasted chilli and honey garlic brine, all topped with a crispy Thai Riceberry cracker. The Caesar Salad cocktail is also spectacular, capturing the essence of the famous salad in a single sip. It even offers a subtle hint of cheese.  Sukhumvit Soi 37, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana. 063-845-1844. Open daily from 5pm-midnight.

With over 300 varieties of imported umeshu, Umeshuthai offers an authentic taste of Japanese culture. The cocktail menu blends traditional Japanese ingredients – such as yuzu, shiso and sake – with classic mixology, creating the perfect harmony of sweet, savoury and citrus notes. Housed in a three-storey building, the first floor showcases Japanese-style decor with wallpaper and umbrellas, while the upper levels blend modern aesthetics with plants and oak wood for a cosy ambience. Guests are encouraged to pair their drinks with a selection of dishes that range from small plates to hearty main courses, some featuring high-quality beef and other authentic Japanese ingredients. Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana. 085-541-4999. Open daily from 11am-2am.  

Straight from Chiang Mai, this shop puts a fresh spin on a beloved childhood doughnut known for its soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Their signature flavour, Hokkaido milk, delivers a nostalgic taste and is paired with a dipping milk sauce. Housed in a charming, cosy space, the Bangkok branch features a warm wooden interior, evoking the serene café vibe of Chiang Mai. Rama IX Soi 41, Suan Luang. 065 032 3008. Open daily 8am-6pm. 

Renowned for its pillowy-soft white doughnuts, Kinu Donut quickly gained a loyal following in Ari before expanding to three additional locations due to its overwhelming popularity. The shop boasts an irresistible selection of icing flavors, from unique options like salted egg and cinnamon to timeless classics such as plain and original. At the Ari branch, the cozy ambiance is elevated by lively blue wallpaper and minimalist decor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Ari Soi 5. 087-462-6666. Open Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm. Closed on Sunday. 

This funky, pop-themed shop on Ban Tad Thong Road is a paradise for doughnut lovers, boasting a whopping 30+ flavours to choose from. To keep things fresh, they also roll out special limited-edition creations featuring seasonal ingredients and trending flavours, ensuring there’s always something new and exciting to try! Chula Soi 12 Wang Mai, Pathum Wan. 098-825-8056. Open daily 11am-11pm.   

Originally hailing from Hat Yai, this beloved doughnut shop has expanded to Bangkok with two thriving branches, winning over the city with its freshly hand-crafted creations made daily. The Sukhumvit Soi 33 location exudes a chic Café de Paris atmosphere, featuring a sophisticated green-and-white palette accented by elegant gold lettering. The menu offers an irresistible array of doughnuts, from classic glazed and fluffy puff cream to decadent, fruit-filled delights. Sukhumvit Soi 33, Watthana. 096-783-8958. Open daily 9am-7pm.

At Drop by Dough, doughnuts go beyond the usual sweet indulgence – they come in savoury varieties too! Signature picks include bacon and cream cheese, raspberry rose, and caramel crème brûlée, while their decadent layered doughnuts take things up a notch. For a unique twist, their savoury selection turns doughnuts into gourmet sandwiches, packed with flavourful mixes of meats and veggies.  Sukhumvit Soi 101/2, Bang Na Nuea. 096 393 8838. Open daily 8.30am-6pm.