Quality over quantity at this cosy and comfortable high-rise bar

This small, intimate and sexy rooftop bar is located at Hotel Indigo Bangkok, on the 26th floor. It is a short walk from the Phloen Chit BTS station to the Hotel. Once you arrive at the rooftop, you will be immersed into the bright lights and buildings of the city, where you can see glimpses of a new world and old world Thailand coming together.

Space is cosy, and with that, offers a more personal touch than some of the other larger rooftop bars. It has cocktail tables, bar countertops that face out to the city skyline and tables with lounge style chairs where you can sit back and order a bottle of champagne, and watch the twinkling lights around you. There is also a retractable roof so you can see the night sky from all seats. I choose a position by the bar where I could see the view, watch the cocktails being made and socialise with the other guests.

I am greeted by the Bar Manager who guides me through their extensive cocktail list. He showcases some of the Signatures. I had him choose ones that he thought would be appropriate for my taste. I am a big fan of cocktails made with egg white, so I start with the “Lady Pomelo” (B330) made with gin and Pomelo and light fruit and citrus. It has a refreshing hint of sweetness, perfect for someone who enjoys a more feminine style drink. Next, “MockingBird” (B340) uses tequila, Campari, dry vermouth and pineapple. It’s savoury and masculine, winning me over. They are making a conscious effort to please all palates with their Signature cocktails.

With a cocktail, it is only natural to browse the food menu. The menu is not extensive due to them having a full-service restaurant on the 25th floor, but what they do have is top notch quality. I order the Vialone (B550) Nano Risotto with Hokkaido Scallops (B500), Caesar Salad (B450) & River Prawns (B450) and Avocado Toast with Diced Tuna (B450). I learned later; Chef Nikolas Ramirez comes from the beautiful island of Maui, Hawaii. He brings some of his home influence to the menu with textures and flavours. The standout, Risotto with Hokkaido Scallops, source some of the world’s best scallops and to find them on a list on a rooftop venue, means they take their culinary experience just as seriously as their cocktails.

Feeling relaxed, it is time to bring up the atmosphere. The DJ, often different local ones, starts up with lounge beats to ease us in. When I am ready to leave, the roof has filled up, and the DJ has the music beating just enough to groove but not over the top where you can’t have a conversation.

This rooftop is all about quality, bringing you a blend of cocktails and culinary experiences that them on the map as a destination venue to enjoy as a local or visitor.
by Charity Waltenbaugh

Char Rooftop Bar
26F, Hotel Indigo Bangkok, 81 Wireless Rd.
Tel: 02 207 4999
Open daily: 6pm-11:30pm
www.hotelindigo.com/bangkok