NEIGHBOURHOOD GUIDE - % Arabica Bangkok Empire Tower

24 Prachathipok Road, Wat Kalaya, Thonburi, Bangkok

https://www.watprayoon.com

+66-2-465-5592

Along the river stands Wat Prayoon Temple, a winner of the UNESCO Award of Excellence. The temple was completed in the early 19th century, during the reign of King Rama III. The hallmark of Wat Prayoon is its striking and beautiful white pagoda, which shines brightly in contrast against the blue sky. Not a super busy tourist spot, the temple is serene and ideal for a quiet morning or afternoon stroll. The temple ground also features a rock garden where visitors are able to enjoy the tranquil pond and admire the turtles that live there.

Opening Hours:
8am – 5pm

Tha Maharaj Pier 1 1/11 Trok Mahathat, Maharaj Road, Phra Borommaharatchawang Bangkok

https://chaophrayatouristboat.com

+66-2-024-1342

The Chao Phraya River is no doubt the most important river in Thailand. It consists of tributaries that spread north, south, east and west of Thailand. Today, the river also represents a means of transportation and a way of life for communities of boat dwellers, with many modern and historical sites also to be seen along the bank. Cruise along the water and visit Pak Klong Talad, the biggest flower market in Bangkok. Make a stop at the many temples and churches and marvel at the architecture. Feeling hungry? Chinatown is nearby, offering a wide variety of savoury and sweet Thai and Chinese treats. For the art lovers, there are numerous museums along the river with rotating installations.

Opening Hours:
9am – 8:30pm

48 Oriental Ave, Khwaeng Bang Rak, Bang Rak, Bangkok

+66-2-659-9000

The Bamboo Bar in Mandarin Oriental is the oldest jazz and cocktail bar in Bangkok. It was also voted the Best Bar in Thailand at the World’s 100 Best Bars awards. The head bartender is a master at combining local Thai ingredients into cocktails to with perfect balance. Sitting on rattan chairs and surrounding by wooden slats, you will become intoxicated with the ambience and romantic live jazz – and of course the great cocktails will play a part too!

Opening Hours:
Sun - Thu : 5pm – 1am
Fri - Sat : 5pm – 2am

151 Ratchadamri Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok

https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/bkkwawa-waldorf-astoria-bangkok

02-846-8888

The Loft & Champagne Bar located on the 56th and 57th floor of Waldorf Astoria Bangkok, is only a few steps away from our Central World shop and Erawan Shrine. This New York inspired bar is a great haunt with friends or a special spot for your significant other in the evening. Its rose gold decor is stunning, and, of course, picture perfect. Their champagne by the glass and hand-crafted cocktails are a must try. The bar also offers a complete view with its panorama glass window to the vibrant city, a view of the Bangkok skyline like nowhere else!

Opening Hours:
5:00 pm - Late
Dinner daily

Ratchadamri Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand

+66-22528750

Erawan Shrine is one of the most famous and visited shrines in Bangkok. It's a two minute walk away from our % Arabica Central World shop. Erawan Shrine, named “Phra Phrom” in Thai, is a four-faced Hindu god. Each face has a different meaning. The front face signifies Career, the left, Romance, the right, Health, and the back, Money. Every day, many believers come here to make their many wishes heard, and hopefully answered. The shrine also offers a beautiful introduction to Thai culture, and quite the photogenic scene.

Opening Hours:
6am - 11pm

Rama IV Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok

https://www.tourismthailand.org/Attraction/lumpini-park

02-252-7006

Lumphini Park is a huge urban oasis in the midst of Bangkok, also known as “Central Park of Bangkok”. It is a wide, green spot where you can just sit and enjoy the peace. The park's also perfect for a lovely stroll. For those who do not want to idle, paddle boats are available for renting on a mini cruise. If you are lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the friendly monitor lizards or turtles in the pond.

Opening Hours:
430am - 9pm

125 Thong Lo Rd, Klongtonnuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand

http://rabbitholebkk.com/

Rabbit Hole is a well-renowned Cocktail bar in Bangkok. In 2020 it held the no. 31 spot on the list of Asia's Top 50 Bars. The talented mixologists behind the bar will serve you up some seriously delicious cocktails to enjoy in this warm, intimate, dimly lit place.

10/10 Sukhumvit 36, Klongton, Klong Toey, Bangkok 10110

https://www.ir-onhotel.com

+ 66 (0) 20740806

With only 22 rooms, this unique, intimate hotel will provide you with the comfort and all the amenities you need in the heart of the Sukhumvit district. Once an eight-story apartment building, this space has been converted to a high-end design hotel with an industrial feel, with exposed raw concrete and iron everywhere, influenced by the owner background in the steel business. On the first floor, you find the lobby and restaurant, a public creative co-working space for gatherings of international travellers, artists, freelancers and people who just want to discover it.

Bangkok Art and Culture Center | BACC, 939 Rama 1 Road, Wangmai, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330

www.bacc.or.th

The Bangkok Art & Culture Centre, also known as BACC, is a central hub for the art scene in Bangkok. With revolving exhibitions, events, and films on display, there will always be something for everyone's cup of tea. BACC is not only a gallery space but also contains an art library, shops, and cafes. Most on display at this multi-store building are free, and it is a perfect place to spend a rainy day in Bangkok.

Opening Hours:
Opening Hours, Tuesday to Sunday, 10am – 9pm

56, Sukhumvit 26 Soi Ari, Klongton Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110, Thailand

https://www.tablecheck.com/en/shops/sorn-fine-southern-cuisine/reserve

+6699-081-1119

Authetic Southern Thai food with a medley of flavors is the specialty at Sorn. Awarded with 2 Michelin stars and regarded as the best restaurant in Thailand, this is definitely worth booking in advance for. Every dish is prepared with care by a team of master chefs with sustainably-sourced ingredients and then served at the best temperature. Indulge in the finest seafood in southern Thailand such as blue swimmer crab legs and other traditional dishes resurrected from long-lost recipes while Sorn’s interiors and surrounding area outside give an ambiance of a calm tropical forest.

Opening Hours:
Closed on Mondays, Open on Tuesdays - Sundays from 6 PM - 11 PM

19 Soi Silom 21, Silom, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand

http://www.number1gallery.com/

+6683 445 8333 / +662 630 2523

Founded in 2006, Number 1 Gallery is one of Thailand’s most well-known exhibition spaces. Stroll around the gallery space to admire the artworks of upcoming talents in Thailand’s contemporary art scene as well as the works of National Artists such as Pichai Nirand, Thawee Ratchaneekorn, and Preecha Thaothong. Art exhibitions rotate every month so there’s always new artworks to see.

Opening Hours:
Closed on Mondays, open on Tuesdays - Sundays from 10 am - 7 pm

Park Lane Ekkamai, G/F, Soi Sukhumvit 63, Thailand, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand

http://ironballsbar.com/

02 714 2269 / 02 074 7913

Looking for a bar with great drinks and a dash of whimsy in the decor? Iron Balls Distillery & Bar is designed by Ashley Sutton, the mastermind behind the designs of some of the most famous bars in Asia. This steampunk-inspired bar serves Gin & Tonics made with their own gin distilled near the main bar area as well as a selection of craft cocktails such as the “Charred Sandalwood Negroni”. This place is one of Bangkok’s best-kept secret gin spots and is worth finding during your trip to Bangkok.

Opening Hours:
Open Daily, 2 pm - 12 am

Level 5, Central Embassy, 1031 Ploenchit Road, Pathum Wan, Bangkok

https://siwilaibkk.com/siwilai-store/

+66-2-160-5809

Rooted in its rich heritage of bustling markets and having a name that takes from the English ‘civilized’, Siwilai is a modern Thai boutique. This multi-brand shopping destination has an expertly curated collection of fashion finds their highly knowledgeable staff will be glad to show you as you browse. From international to local designers, Siwilai aims to be a center of cultural intersection in Thailand’s fashion commerce. A tip: when you’re done shopping, head to the Siwilai City Club for a refreshing drink or light meal to cap off your day.

Opening Hours:
Sunday - Thursday: 10 AM - 8 PM
Friday - Saturday: 10 AM - 9 PM

137/1-3, 9 10 Sanam Khli Alley, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok

https://guide.michelin.com/en/bangkok-region/bangkok/restaurant/polo-fried-chicken-soi-polo

+66-2-655-8489 / +66-2-251-2772

If you’re looking for the best crispy, crunchy southern-style fried chicken in Bangkok, look no further than Soi Polo that’s been awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction. This restaurant’s been run by the same family for three generations and has been dishing up delicious fried chicken for more than 50 years. The chicken is deep-fried according to a secret recipe that the first generation developed, one the succeeding generations of the family have perfected over the years, and then topped with fried garlic to add on the savory umami rich juiciness of the chicken. Pair it with their Som Tam (green papaya salad) for a delicious lunch. With a loyal following from the locals for more than 50 years, Soi Polo is a must-stop during your trip to Bangkok.

Opening Hours:
7 AM - 9 PM

1041/38 Phloen Chit Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok

https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/bangkok

+66-2-080-0088

The first thing that makes Rosewood Bangkok stand out is its form. Slanting down from the top before bending at an angle towards the end, its architecture is inspired by the wai - the Thai gesture used when greeting someone. Take that as a sign of the hotel’s top-notch hospitality. Every room and suite has been designed with attention to detail, weaving together Thailand’s rich artistic culture, and has all the amenities needed for a 5-star stay. Choose from a European-style brasserie, Northern and Southern Chinese cuisine, a stylish speakeasy with great views of Bangkok’s skyline, afternoon high tea, and a farm-to-table cafe if you’re feeling peckish. Or book a therapy session at the Sense Spa followed by a cool dip in the hotel pool. Whatever activity you decide to do at Rosewood Bangkok, you’re guaranteed top service and luxury.

Ratchada Road, Khlong Toei, Bangkok

https://www.facebook.com/BenchakittiForestPark/

This gorgeous park is a great place to visit if you’re in the mood for a slower change of pace. After a busy day of getting around bustling Bangkok, wouldn’t it be nice to find a nice green spot to take a leisurely walk? Maybe even a bike ride? If you’re in downtown Bangkok, then Benchakitti Forest Park is your best bet. With 180 acres of space holding majestic trees, mangroves, and an artificial lake, this is a great spot to relax. And with a skyscraper in the back creating a dramatic backdrop, this is also a recommended spot for taking pictures by locals.

Room 1 BTS/MRT Sukhumvit Asok Montri Rd, Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok

http://www.palapizzabangkok.com/

+66-2-259-1228

If you’re craving pizza in Bangkok, this is one of the best places to have it. Pizza Pala Romana offers the best “pizza al taglio” in Thailand’s capital. Also known as “pizza al metro”, this involves baking meter-long slabs of dough and serving it on a long wooden pala or tray. Every pizza in here is made with the finest ingredients and can have a wide selection of flavorful toppings. Expect a thick crust with a crispy exterior that yields to a soft, fluffy inside as you bite into your slice. Aside from their pizzas, Romana also offers classic Italian specialties as well as a collection of deli meats, cheeses, and fine pastries all at an affordable price. The next time you’re in Bangkok, visit Pizza Pala Romana for the best slice of pizza you can find outside of Italy.

Opening Hours:
7:30 AM - 11: 30 PM

190-190/ 1 Soi Sukhumvit 16, Khlong Toei, Bangkok

https://asia.yokkao.com/pages/bangkok

+66-2-708-1767

Learn Muay Thai from some of Thailand’s best fighters at the Yokkao Training Center. Those looking for something new to try in their fitness journey will get to experience the benefits of Muay Thai with the help of experienced trainers. And if you’re already taking up Muay Thai, this is your chance to hone your skills and see how you measure up against the experts. The training center has all the needed outdoor equipment for the workouts and designated rings for sparring. If you’re lucky and if you really want to challenge yourself, you can book a private training session with Saenchai, the Muay Thai Living Legend.

Opening Hours:
Monday - Saturday: 8 AM - 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM - 6 PM
Closed on Sunday