The Bamboo Bar

Established in 1953 within the prestigious Mandarin Oriental on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, The Bamboo Bar is Bangkok’s original jazz haven. Reopened in 2014 after an elegant refurbishment, the space retains its colonial-era soul—featuring dark wood ceilings, cane-and-rattan chairs (some with tiger- or zebra-print cushions), bamboo accents, and mirrored ceilings—strategically blending vintage ambiance with contemporary sophistication. As Thailand's first dedicated jazz venue, it offers nightly live performances: jazz vocalists Mon–Thu and Fri–Sat evenings, with piano sets on Sundays. The bar’s service is legendary—staff in leather aprons, impeccable etiquette, and a smart-casual dress code encourage elegant evenings after 6:30 pm. The menu balances beloved classics and avant-garde creations. Signature cocktails—like the Thaijito (rum, lemongrass, brown sugar) and the geographically inspired “Compass” menu—feature Thai fruits, herbs, barrel-aged blends, and house infusions. With an average price of ~$18 per cocktail and occasional elevated large-format drinks, it's upscale yet approachable. Renowned globally (No.11 in Asia’s 50 Best Bars; Best Bar in Thailand ’19 & ’21), The Bamboo Bar is a cultural jewel offering a harmonious mix of music, mixology, and heritage, ideal for special evenings or sophisticated nights out.