Ultimate Bangkok Guide: The Best Trendy Cafes, Malls & Bars

This is a travel guide to exploring the new Bangkok, a vibrant metropolis where traditional charm meets modern flair. We plan to take you through the city’s most exciting shopping malls, wonderful spa and massage retreats, electrifying nightclubs, stunning rooftop bars, bustling night markets, and Instagram-worthy cafes.

As Bangkok evolves, trendy hotspots like the newly buzzing EmSphere mall events and emerging cafes such as Walden Home Cafe in Somdet Chao Phraya are redefining urban vibes.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this guide is packed with fresh, insider tips to help you discover Bangkok’s trendy cafes, malls, and bars. (Stay tuned, I am preparing my new guide for more hotspots!) – Of course, you can always plan a short Bangkok day trip with your stay in the city, too!

Get ready to dive into an unforgettable journey through the heart of Thailand’s capital, where every corner offers a new adventure.

Savor the Flavors: Bangkok’s Ultimate Culinary Adventure

Bangkok’s culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, blending traditional Thai cuisine with global influences. It’s home to several Michelin-starred restaurants and world-renowned dining establishments that offer unforgettable gastronomic experiences.

Planning a dining itinerary in Bangkok involves making reservations well in advance, as many of these esteemed venues are often fully booked.

The latest addition to Bangkok’s elite dining landscape includes Coda Bangkok and Gaggan at Louis Vuitton, the first Louis Vuitton restaurant in South Asia. This venue is the brainchild of world-renowned Chef Gaggan Anand, and it’s located in the upscale Phloen Chit area, easily accessible via the BTS.

The restaurant’s stunning architecture and innovative menu make it a must-visit, with signature dishes that reflect a creative blend of flavors. Prices for lunch or dinner can vary, check their website or contact them directly for the latest updates and booking tips. It is recommended to make a reservation for lunch because for the same (or a very similar) menu, the price is almost half off compared with dinner.

Check out the list of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants (ongoing updates); Tokyo leads the pack with five top restaurants, while Singapore has nine on the list.

Bangkok proudly features eight top-tier dining establishments:

• Gaggan Anand: Ranked No. 3, known for its progressive Indian cuisine and a dining experience that is both playful and sophisticated.
• Nusara: At No. 6, it won the Gin Mare Hospitality Award, celebrated for its intimate atmosphere and modern Thai cuisine.
• Sühring: Ranked No. 7, offers modern German cuisine in a beautifully restored townhouse, with creative dishes and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
• Sorn: At No. 11, specializes in Southern Thai cuisine with a focus on traditional cooking techniques and ingredients.
• Le Du: Ranked No. 12, features innovative Thai cuisine using seasonal and local ingredients.
• Potong: At No. 17, offers a 20-course tasting menu that gives traditional recipes an avant-garde touch.
• Gaa: Re-entered the list, explored the intersection of Indian and global cuisines.
• R-Haan: Makes a notable re-entry, known for its authentic Thai flavors and royal cuisine.

I visited Sühring before with my group of friends, and I was happy to know that it continues to be a top contender. Sühring brings modern German food to a beautifully restored townhouse. The German twin chefs have some novel tricks up their sleeves, and we enjoyed a great 3-hour course meal in the private section with some good vinyl music and excellent service.

The menu of the night included three chapters, from appetizers and main courses to dessert. The dishes experimented with different tastes and flavors, and the presentation had a great visual impact, too. The highlight was the main dish – Hungarian duck aged 7 days in a pot, just to keep the moisture and tenderness of the meat. We even got to choose our own cutlery for the dish.

Later the same year, I visited Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin in Kempinski, which was a joy. The dishes there were much more creative and it was an interesting experience that I will be happy to share in another post. While not all restaurants are exactly award-winning, many are still among the list of ‘Best Restaurants’ or ‘Michelin-decorated’ venues that are worth visiting. The “star-studded” Bangkok restaurant list has only made my trips so much more exciting.

Additionally, you can visit Karmakamet Diner, an established brand of aromatic products turned café in Sukhumvit, or enjoy a high tea at Divana Café, where their signature gelatin flowers are a feast for both the stomach and the eyes.

Khao, a Michelin 1-star restaurant in Ekkamai, serves authentic Thai dishes at a very reasonable price.

The House of Sathorn, located next to the W Hotel, is a beautiful colonial mansion dating back to 1889, now offering a seasonal menu with flamboyant presentations and innovative combinations that pleasantly surprised me and enriched my culinary experience.

I wish to introduce more about all these food experiences in my next “Yummylicious! Bangkok!” food guide!

Unwind and Rejuvenate: Bangkok’s Top Spas and Onsen Retreats

When in Bangkok, indulging in a massage and spa experience is a must. Like other destinations (let say, Bali), Bangkok is teeming with various spa centers, many of which stay open late and are very accessible, allowing you to enjoy a soothing rub down after a day of exploring.

Remember to make reservations in advance, as some places now close earlier. Here are some of the most popular and well-known chains:

• Healthland
• Urban Retreat Spa
• Lavana Bangkok
• Let’s Relax
• Urban Retreat Bangkok Asok Branch
• Montra Health & Spa

Additionally, many 5-star hotels offer exquisite spa experiences. For an unforgettable spa date and to pamper yourself, consider the following:

• Mandarin Oriental’s Spa: Absolutely amazing.
• Sukhothai Hotel’s Spa: Truly wonderful.
• Amaranth Spa at Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok: Awarded Thailand’s Best Hotel Spa 2024.
• Anantara Spa at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel: Highly recommended.
• Auriga Wellness at Capella Bangkok: Another top choice.

For more details, you can visit the Wellness Retreats Thailand website to decide which spa to go to.

Onsen and Massage Packages in Bangkok

Onsen and massages are now often combined into a packaged experience in Bangkok, making it easy to spend half a day relaxing. Arrive an hour or 1.5 hours early to enjoy the onsen, followed by a 90-minute or 2-hour massage, and then dine at the on-site cafes offering a wide selection of food.

For the best affordable spas in Bangkok 2025, try Let’s Relax branches – The top onsen and massage centers are:

• Let’s Relax
• Panpuri Wellness
• Yunomori Onsen & Spa

These hot spring spas typically feature a soda bath, vitality pool, cold plunge, and signature baths. They follow traditional Japanese onsen rules, which means no underwear or swimsuits are allowed. However, special one-time-use underwear is available for women at Panpuri and Yunomori. Unlike in Japan, tattoos are allowed in Bangkok’s onsens.

Personal Recommendations

Healthland remains a favorite among locals due to its large facilities and wide range of affordable massages and treatments. Each hotel has its own massage and spa treatment center with extensive menus. Enjoying these diverse and luxurious spa experiences can significantly enhance your trip to Bangkok, providing relaxation and rejuvenation after a day of exploration.

Retail Wonderland: Exploring Bangkok’s Best Shopping Malls

Bangkok is renowned for its incredible shopping malls, offering everything from luxury brands to unique local finds. Here’s a list of some of the most famous and popular shopping malls in the city:

• Siam Center
• Siam Paragon
• Central World
• Gaysorn
• Emporium
• EmQuartier
• Central Embassy
• The Market
• Terminal 21
• ICONSIAM

Introducing Emsphere: New 2023! 

Opening its doors in December 2023, Emsphere is the newest addition to Bangkok’s retail landscape, located in the heart of Sukhumvit at Phrom Phong.

This visionary mall, branded as “Future Retail presents the future of the future,” aims to be a new landmark in the city.

Emsphere is celebrated for its exquisite food hall, featuring a wide range of dining experiences from local delicacies to fine dining, including a restaurant by Gordon Ramsay.

Foodies will delight in the variety of restaurants and food shops spread across the first and second floors. The grand opening today is marked by an extravagant celebration that promises to go on until late.

ICONSIAM: A Riverside Shopping Paradise

On the other side of the river lies ICONSIAM, a colossal shopping complex that brings the charm of a floating market indoors.

This mall offers a unique shopping experience with a blend of luxury and traditional Thai culture.

For a detailed guide on exploring ICONSIAM and the surrounding areas, check out my other blog post here.

Shopping Malls in the Siam Area

The Siam area is a central hub for shopping in Bangkok, home to several interconnected malls via skywalks from Siam to Chit Lom BTS station:

• Siam Center: Known for its trendy fashion boutiques and creative retail spaces.
• Siam Paragon: A luxury shopping destination with high-end brands, gourmet food markets, and an impressive cinema.
• Central World: One of the largest malls in Southeast Asia, offering a vast array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
• Gaysorn: A sophisticated mall featuring luxury brands and high-end services.

Emporium and EmQuartier: The Dining Haven

Emporium, along with its extension EmQuartier, offers a fantastic food hall at Phrom Phong. The range of dining options here caters to every palate, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Central Embassy: Luxury and Leisure

Central Embassy is a relatively new luxury shopping complex and hotel, featuring numerous high-end retailers, boutiques, restaurants, and the Park Hyatt. Notable attractions include the book tower and art tower on level 6, an open playground for kids, and a reading area for shoppers. The Raw Bar, Meat Bar, and various cafes offer intriguing dishes that make dining here a delight.

The Market: Bangkok’s Indoor Chatuchak

The Market positions itself as an “indoor Chatuchak,” featuring local fashion brands and design goods. It’s a great place to pick up unique tees, shoes, and other items at affordable prices.

Terminal 21: A Unique Shopping Experience

Terminal 21 is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, known for its themed floors representing different global cities. The mall offers a range of local brands with unique fashion items at great prices.

Mega Bangna: Fun Beyond the City Center

Mega Bangna, located a bit out of the city center, offers a vast and diverse shopping experience. It’s a massive mall with something for everyone, from international brands to local stores.

The mall features an extensive food court, an IKEA store, and entertainment options like a cinema and ice skating rink. If you’re in the area, Mega Bangna is definitely worth a visit for its unique blend of shopping and fun activities.

Dining in Malls

Bangkok’s shopping malls are not just about retail therapy—they also offer fantastic dining experiences. Many malls feature extensive food halls and renowned restaurant chains, ensuring you can enjoy a great meal without stepping outside. For example, my.kitchen in Siam Discovery offers a mix of restaurants, cafes, and bakeries like Brix Dessert Bar, Café Chilli, Jamie’s Italian, Phufu, and Man Fu Yuan.

Local Supermarkets

Don’t forget to visit local supermarkets like Big C for unique Thai snacks and merchandise before heading home. Popular products include Kohkae peanuts, tube-shaped honey, and big lava sheets. Some superstores stay open until 2 am, making them a convenient stop for late-night shopping.

Exploring Bangkok’s diverse and luxurious malls can significantly enhance your trip, providing endless options for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Night Bazaar Magic: Exploring Bangkok’s Vibrant Markets

Bangkok’s night markets offer an exhilarating experience, blending shopping, dining, and entertainment. These bustling bazaars have evolved over the years, adapting to the challenges of the pandemic while continuing to attract both locals and tourists.

Here’s a look at some of the most exciting night markets in Bangkok today:

• 

  Chatuchak Weekend Market: A perennial favorite among visitors, this expansive market is easily accessible via both the BTS and MRT Blue Line at Chatuchak Park Station.
  Known for its extensive range of goods, from clothing to unique souvenirs, it has recently expanded with new themes and focuses.

• JODD Fairs Rama 9: Formerly known as Ratchada Rot Fai Train Night Market, this popular market relocated and transformed due to the pandemic.
  The same group of night bazaar management geniuses found a new location and re-created the night market magic – the end result, the new hot spots for visitors since its opening.

  Now located at Rama 9, JODD Market now features vibrant white tents (instead of the colorful ones in Ratchada) offering a variety of local and international foods. Highlights include Bangkok Pork Ribs (it has portions for different group sizes), crickets, pig knuckles, durian, and delectable coconut pancakes.

  The market also offers fashion and accessories, making it a must-visit spot for a diverse shopping experience.

Other Notable Night Markets

• Patpong Night Market: A bustling night bazaar known for its wide array of gifts, souvenirs, clothing, and street food.
• The Camp Vintage Flea Market / DUM DUM Vintage Shop: Opened in 2018, this funky nighttime flea market offers vintage fashion, home products, and records in a hip setting.
• Hua Mum Night Market: An off-the-radar market in Hua Mum District, famous for its seafood restaurant with servers dressed in entertaining costumes.
• LHONG 1919: A restored 19th-century mansion turned mixed-use complex with restaurants, stores, and a shrine, accessible via the Chao Phraya Tourist Hop-on-hop-off boat.
• ASIATIQUE The Riverfront: Featuring a sizable Ferris wheel and scenic river views, this open-air mall combines shopping and entertainment.

  

• Warehouse 30: An industrial-chic warehouse offering a community arts space with vendors, galleries, food, and films.
• Talad Rot Fai Train Night Market: A bustling outdoor market specializing in antiques and vintage memorabilia, complemented by bars and restaurants.
• Talad Neon: Known for its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic mix of stalls.
• Thailand Creative and Design Center: An innovative expo center for creatives, featuring a large library and exhibition space.

Entertainment and Culture

After a night out at the markets, continue the fun with various entertainment options, such as:

• Joe Louis Thai Puppet Theatre
• Muay Thai Boxing
• Calypso Cabaret and Dinner Show
• Siam Niramit Show

Bangkok’s night markets and bazaars provide a vibrant and dynamic experience, showcasing the city’s rich culture and eclectic charm. Whether you’re hunting for unique finds or indulging in delicious street food, these markets offer something for everyone.

Soaring Heights: Exploring Bangkok’s Best Rooftop Bars and Nightlife

Rooftop bars in Bangkok are not just a trend; they’re a quintessential experience that adds a magical touch to any visit. While rooftop bars can be found worldwide, Bangkok’s skyline offers some of the most breathtaking views and unique atmospheres.

One of the most iconic is the Bangkok Sky Bar, located on the 63rd floor of the 5-star Lebua at State Tower.

Often hailed as the “original” rooftop bar, it sets a high standard for others in the city. However, Bangkok now boasts a plethora of rooftop bars to choose from. Here are some top picks according to Time Out Magazine:

• Octave Rooftop Lounge & Bar: A multi-level bar offering 360-degree views of the city, located in the Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit.
• Vertigo and Moon Bar: Situated on the 61st floor of the Banyan Tree Hotel, this bar offers stunning views and an upscale atmosphere.
• Above Eleven: A chic rooftop bar with a Peruvian-Japanese fusion restaurant on the 33rd floor of Fraser Suites Sukhumvit.
• Hi-So Rooftop Bar: Located at the SO Sofitel, this bar provides panoramic views of Lumpini Park and the city skyline.
• Red Sky: Found on the 55th floor of Centara Grand, this bar is known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning sunset views.

For more details and other top picks, you can check out the full list here.

Tips for Visiting Rooftop Bars

1. 1. Dress Code: Most rooftop bars in Bangkok enforce a smart casual dress code, so avoid flip-flops and tank tops.
   2. Reservations: Make a reservation in advance to secure a good spot, especially during weekends and peak tourist seasons.
   3. Happy Hours: Take advantage of happy hour deals to enjoy drinks at a lower cost while soaking in the sunset.
   4. Weather: Check the weather forecast before heading out, as many rooftop bars may close during heavy rain.

Alternative Rooftop Experience: King Power MahaNakhon

If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional rooftop bars, the King Power MahaNakhon offers an incredible rooftop experience.

This skyscraper features a stunning observation deck on its 78th floor, providing a 360-degree panoramic view of Bangkok. The highlight is the “SkyWalk,” a glass-floor platform that allows you to walk above the city – perfect for adrenaline junkies and those seeking an unforgettable view.

Electrifying Nights: Top Nightclubs in Bangkok

Bangkok’s nightlife doesn’t end with rooftop bars. The city is also home to some of the best nightclubs in Asia. Here are a few top recommendations based on Lifestyle Asia:

• Fake Club Bangkok: Known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse crowd, this club is a staple in Bangkok’s LGBTQ+ nightlife scene.
• Onyx: Located in RCA, Onyx is a high-energy club featuring international DJs and a massive dance floor.
• Insanity Nightclub: One of Bangkok’s largest clubs, offering a state-of-the-art sound system and stunning light shows.
• Route 66: Another RCA favorite, Route 66 offers multiple rooms with different music genres, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
• Sing Sing Theater: A unique venue with an eclectic, theatrical vibe, featuring live performances and DJ sets.

For more nightlife recommendations, visit the full list here.

Whether you’re enjoying a sophisticated evening at a rooftop bar or dancing the night away in one of Bangkok’s top nightclubs, the city’s nightlife scene promises an unforgettable experience.

Sip, Snap, and Savor: Discovering Bangkok’s Instagrammable Cafes and Afternoon Teas

Bangkok is a paradise for café enthusiasts and Instagram lovers, offering a plethora of picture-perfect spots to enjoy a delightful afternoon tea. Among the many choices spread across the city, two new hotspots stand out for their unique ambiance and picturesque settings: Bubble in the Forest and After the Rain Coffee & Gallery. Here’s how you can make the most of your café-hopping adventure in Bangkok:

Bubble in the Forest and After the Rain Coffee & Gallery: Must-Visit Hotspots

• After the Rain Coffee & Gallery: Start your morning at this charming café that serves whimsical breakfast dishes and drinks. Nestled along a canal lined with palm trees, it offers a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation and photography. Visitors can row a boat along the canal, capturing stunning Instagram moments, or enjoy the swing while soaking in the tranquil vibes. No reservation is needed here, but arriving early is recommended to avoid the crowd.

• Bubble in the Forest: Just a short distance from After the Rain, this café has quickly become a favorite among bloggers and Instagrammers.
  Featuring a Maldives-like setting with a central pool flanked by pavilions, it offers a luxurious and serene environment. On sunny days, opt for a private pavilion for a comfortable dining experience.
  The menu includes a variety of lunch dishes such as pork neck meat, chicken, and Pad Thai. Make sure to make a reservation via the Line app and pay a deposit to secure your spot. The highlight is dipping your toes in the water while enjoying your meal and taking beautiful photos around the premises.

Tips for a Perfect Café Visit

• • Arrive Early: Beat the crowd by visiting these hotspots in the morning.
  • Reservations: Secure your spot at Bubble in the Forest by booking through the Line app.
  • Dress Comfortably: Wear something comfortable and stylish for those perfect Instagram shots.
  • Explore the Menu: Try the unique dishes and drinks each café offers – from whimsical breakfasts to traditional Thai lunches.

Beyond the Hotspots: Exploring More Cafes in Bangkok

Bangkok is dotted with countless cafes that offer delicious local Thai food and desserts, making it impossible to list them all.

Here are some other must-visit spots:

• After You Dessert Café: Famous for its decadent desserts, this café has multiple branches across the city.
• Brix Dessert Bar, Pancake Cafe Fluff, and GRAM: These spots are known for their delightful soufflé pancakes.
• Make Me Mango and Mango Tango: Perfect for enjoying the quintessential Thai dessert, mango sticky rice.

Night Markets and Local Delicacies

Your café adventure in Bangkok wouldn’t be complete without exploring the vibrant night markets. Indulge in a variety of local dishes such as chicken rice, seafood barbecue, coconut, mango sticky rice, and novelty pancakes. For a true taste of Bangkok, venture into the alleys or streets, visit Chinatown for Chinese-Thai delicacies, or dine at renowned restaurants like Somboon Seafood.

Bangkok’s vibrant café culture and dynamic nightlife ensure that every moment in the city is filled with delightful experiences and Instagram-worthy moments. So, sip, snap, and savor your way through Bangkok’s best spots!