Showing posts with label Bar. Show all posts

[PLACE] 20150114 Khaosan Road @ Phra Nakhon, Bangkok


Khaosan Road or Khao San Road was once a main rice market, suggested from the name "Khaosan" which literally means "milled rice". It is now a famous night market and backpacker's street with cheap accommodation which attracts many backpackers from around the world.

It is also a travel hub where many travel agents providing cheap and affordable tours to various destination around Thailand and even outside Thailand with one stop Visa application services. My half day trip to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is also arranged by one of the travel agent from here.

At night, the street transforms into a very happening place with street vendors, food stalls, pubs and other entertainment. Khaosan Road is considered to be a more hippy place and is flooded with more foreign tourists than any other night market around Bangkok.

You may find many interesting in Khaosan Road that you may rarely encounter else where like makeshift mobile pubs, campervan pubs, edible bugs stalls etc.

Khaosan Rd Khet Phra Nakhon Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200 Thailand
Nearest BTS Stations: Nil
Telephone: Nil
Opening Hours: Nil

TO GO


Khaosan Road is not near to any BTS nor MRT stations and mostly you would need to grab a cab to reach here.



ATTRACTION


Khaosan Road is more lively at night with the variety of pubs and cafe. It caters more for the younger market with its strong music and adventurous offerings such as on-the-spot tattoos, fried scorpions on-the-go, street challenges etc.


More than half of the visitors here are foreigners and mostly staying nearby at the backpackers' lounge or hotels.


Temporary or permanent tattoos stalls are commonly seen here in Khaosan Road and they will do it on the spot like a free show.



Not forgetting the traditional Thai massage, from the cheap open air mass-production type, to the slightly premium air-conditioned parlours along the streets. A great way to pamper your foot after a long walk.


The Khaosan Road expands into the alley from the main street which will lead you to the other side of Khaosan Road where they are more restaurants and pubs awaiting for you.


In contrast to the more happening main street, the side walk is more cozy and relaxing with pubs and restaurants if you are looking for a bite.



The BBQ seafood is very tempting and inviting with the aroma. If it wasn't because I was still full from the earlier seafood dinner at T&K Seafood, I might end up having my dinner here instead. Probably next time.


Further down the streets, the crowd became lesser and the streets are quiet and dark. However, this is where all the cute little campervan bars are located. The locals creatively transformed these old campervan into vibrant and colourful road side bars. Each having its own distinctive characteristics.


Some with loud techno music while some others with soothing chillax melodies.


Some cuter version of the campervan bars.


No campervan? Nevermind, old pick up trucks will do just fine.


Towards the very end of the street, there's this red looking cafe with some tents outside for those who are looking for a quiet environment away from the busy streets.


SUMMARY


Khaosan Road caters more to youngsters who are more adventurous and active with a variety of unique experience. It is a relatively short street but a more hipster area compared to other night markets and it is very lively. It is known as the backpacker's street with many backpacker's lounge established within the vicinity. Here is also one of a few places that you are able to find exotic bug/insect snacks for those who dare to try.

Attraction
very lively and happening street.
Cleanliness

Entrance Fee
Nil
Opening Hours
Daily
Wifi
Nil
Parking
Limited
Website
Nil

GPS: 13.759012, 100.497098

[PLACE] 20150111 Above Eleven Rooftop Bar @ Khlong Toei Nuea, Bangkok


Bangkok is probably one of the cities in the world with the most rooftop bars, each with its unique attraction and menu to entice visitors from around the world. If you are to spend a night at each famous rooftop bar, I think you might need to stay for another a month or two for a complete bar hopping.

Above Eleven rooftop restaurant & bar is the first Peruvian & Japanese fusion restaurant in South East Asia, located on the 33rd floor of the Fraser Suites Sukhumvit at the very lively Sukhumbit area.

Unlike some other rooftop bars that focuses on beverages, Above Eleven do serve quality food along with their signature cocktails. Although the price tag may come a bit pricey but it is still at a reasonable range which is affordable. Some other bars might burn a big hole in your wallet.

The rooftop bar is on the 33rd floor with a mezzanine floor overseeing the Sukhumvit district, which is a bit dull if you compare to other bars. However, the atmosphere and environment was great, coupled with attentive waiter and waitresses to ensure you have a pleasant and chilling night.

Reservation is recommended as the tables filled up pretty quickly and strict dress code is to be adhere to. So, no sleeveless clothes and sandals are allowed.

33rd Floor, Fraser Suites Sukhumvit
38/8 Soi Sukhumvit 11, Khlong Tan Nuea, Khet Vadhana, Bangkok, 10110 Thailand
Nearest BTS Station: Nana Station, Exit 3
Telephone: +66 083 542 1111
Opening Hours: 06:00pm until 02:00am

TO GO


The Fraser Suites Sukhumvit is about 10 minute walk away from BTS Nana Station. Just take BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line) and exit at Nana Station, Exit 3. Look for Soi Sukumvit 11 sign towards the right side and walk along the streets. You will find many road side stalls and night pubs along the way. Go towards the end and turn left, the Fraser Suites Sukumvit will be at your right side. Alternatively, you may take the public cab.

Once you reach the condominium entrance you will notice a small sign board of restaurants and bars located within the building. The entrance of Above Eleven is located at the back of the condominium with a separate lift that will take you right up to 33rd floor without the need of access card.



ATTRACTION



The very dark and hideous entrance of Above Eleven located at the back of the Fraser Suites Sukhumvit, which is also the lift lobby.


The reception is located right after the lift exit and you will be lead to the rooftop via the corridor.


The bar is located right at the middle of the restaurant with sofas at the side and tables at the front. There's a mezzanine floor with more seats for the patrons.


Fancy chalk board showing the menu of the day.


I was seated at the edge of the rooftop, separated by a glass panel, overseeing the night scape beyond the edges. Sad to say that their menu doesn't come with pictures but fortunately the waiter will pass you an iPad to show you the pictures of the dishes, making selection much easier.


They are constantly changing their menu, hence it's recommended for you to check out their website for the latest food and drinks menu at Above Eleven - Food & Drinks.


The bar is extremely dark, making taking picture a huge challenge without using a flash to disturb other patrons. The seafood platter with calamari, prawn and fish as finger food.


As mentioned, there's no spectacular view of the Bangkok night view from Above Eleven's location due to lack of popular landmarks. However, this is well compensated with the cozy environment and excellent service provided by the staff.

P.S. Do check out their washroom especially the gentlemen. You will get a chance to pee right into the glass panel overlooking the night view (of course it is not visible from the outside, I hope!)

SUMMARY


Above Eleven is a cozy rooftop bar which gives you a nice venue to hang out with friends or your love ones during your visit and not burning a hole in your pocket. They have a wide range of drinks and a good collection of wines for a chilling night.

Taste
better than average dimsum, but not the best.
Value
pricey but well worth
Service
excellent and attentive
Cleanliness

Opening Hours
06:00pm until 02:00am (Daily)
Wifi
Yes
Parking
Yes but limited.
Website

GPS: 13.745585, 100.556305