The Deck, Arun Residence
This is, quite possibly, the best view of Wat Arun in all of Bangkok and better still, you can enjoy it in a seat right by the Chao Phraya River, looking out across the water with a cocktail or glass of wine in your hand. Watch as the sun sets over Wat Arun and the lights flicker on, illuminating the iconic temple—very Instagram-friendly! The atmosphere here is laid back, with no dress code, and prices are reasonable. There is also an elegant restaurant with top-notch king river prawns among many other culinary delights.
6-38 Soi Pratoo Nok Yoong, Maharat Rd. | www.facebook.com/pages/Amorosa
Alfresco 64 – A Chivas Bar, lebua
Perched 800 feet in the air on the 64th floor of the Tower Club at lebua, Alfresco 64 is the highest outdoor whisky bar in the world, offering connoisseurs and luxury jet-setters the ultimate whisky drinking experience along with stunning aerial views of the skyline and the Chao Phraya River below. The design draws inspiration from the sleek lines of a yacht with a 200-sqm ultra-luxury bar, and the added bonus of spectacular views of Wat Arun, especially at sunset.
1055, State Tower, Si Lom | www.lebua.com/alfresco-64
Attitude, Avani Riverside
High up—26 stories in fact—way above the Chao Phraya River, Attitude offers not only stunning views but stunning cocktails too, served alongside Asian-influenced tapas plates at very reasonable prices. Mingle at the al fresco bar or embrace sophistication inside the art deco dining room. A beautiful location to socialise and sip cocktails—we recommend “Magic Summer” with Broken Shed Vodka, Vanilla Liquor, Cheery Heering and Lime—plus they have live DJ sets if you want to get down and funky.
257 Charoennakorn | www.attitudebangkok.com
The Summer House Project
Only a stones throw from The Never Ending Summer, you’ll find the beautiful The Summer House Project terrace with a stunning waterfront view. The artfully decorated outdoor space is perfect for pre-dinner drinks and as darkness falls watch the lights of the city flicker on. If you’re trying to impress, then this is an excellent first-date spot.
41/5 Charoen Nakorn Rd. | www.facebook.com/TheNeverEndingSummer
The Lantern, Millennium Hilton Bangkok
Located within the hotel, on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, this is a mecca for lovers of fine blended teas all paired with artfully crafted chocolate and delicious desserts, created by the in-house pastry chef from Switzerland. With up-close views of the flowing river and bobbing boats, this is an ideal spot for those wishing to unwind and relax.
123 Charoennakorn Rd., Klongsan | www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/thailand/millennium-hilton-bangkok-BKKHITW/dining/index.html
Steve’s Café & Cuisine
There are in fact three branches of Steve’s Café & Cuisine, but the Dhevet branch, located in the small community behind Wat Devarajkoonchon, is the riverside original. This 60-year-old plus house was recently revamped after serious damage was caused by flooding, and now, after a bright lick of paint, the famed café has undergone a more modern splash of modernity. They also serve up authentic, home-cooked style Thai food with first-rate Mieng Kuay Teaw along with a whole host of local beers and special cocktails in what is a truly special setting. Accessible via the Chaophaya Express boat, exit at Dhevet pier and cross the small bridge, walking towards Thevaratkunchong temple.
68 Si Ayutthaya Rd., Dusit | www.stevecafeandcuisine.com
Samsara
A popular spot with locals who enjoy a wind-down drink after work by the river. Set in an old wooden house, Samsara sits right on the Chao Phraya River, while inside the restaurant brims over with vintage, wooden furnishings, and an eclectic mix of chairs with touches of Japanese and Thai artworks. Back outside and a charming wood terrace allows for wonderful riverside views—reservations are a must. Overall, this isn’t a highfalutin spot, but rather like visiting your friends house, somewhere you can comfortably kick back with a beer, the stray and curious cats all around you, while you watch the long-boats pass.
1612 Song Wat Rd., Sampantha Wong | www.facebook.com/pg/samsarabkk
Viva & Aviv The River
Located within the River City shopping complex in Samphanthawong, this fun and relaxing riverside bar, with a strong focus on quality and expressive cocktails—mostly thirst quenching and fresh fruit-based creations—is a bit of a hidden gem. A live DJ spins house tunes in the evenings, so it’s easy to find your buzz and a great place to kickstart your night. Food is drawn from the modern Australian café culture, but ultimately, it’s all about the river view and this breezy, comfortable setting is great for friends, couples and happily welcomes children too.
River City, Unit 118, 23 Trok Rongnamkhaeng | www.vivaaviv.com
