Forget the crowded clubs and mega-malls. If you want a night out in Bangkok that feels mysterious, artistic, and incredibly cool, you need to head to Soi Nana in Chinatown (not to be confused with the busy Nana on Sukhumvit Road!).
Hidden just a short walk from the MRT Wat Mangkon station, this narrow, century-old alley completely transforms after dark. The ancient Chinese shophouses wake up, glowing with red neon lights, revealing hidden speakeasies, herbal cocktail bars, and indie art spaces.
If you are planning to visit this ultimate niche neighborhood, here are the 5 absolute best spots you need to check out!
Cho Why: The Raw Art Space
Before diving into the food and drinks, you have to stop by Cho Why. This is a multi-disciplinary art space housed in a beautiful, rustic three-story shophouse that keeps its unpolished, historic charm.
The iconic raw and rustic facade of Cho Why Art Space.
They don’t have a permanent exhibition, which makes it exciting because there is always something new. Depending on when you visit, you might walk into a photography exhibition by local artists, an indie pop-up clothing market, or even an intimate rooftop film screening. It’s the creative heart of the alley.
Tep Bar: The “Cultural” Cocktail Bar
Tep Bar is famous for bringing traditional Thai culture into Bangkok’s modern nightlife scene, and the energy here is absolutely electric.
High-energy live traditional Thai music paired with herbal cocktails at Tep Bar.
Instead of typical club music, they have a live band playing high-energy traditional Thai music using instruments like the Ranat (Thai xylophone). Their drinks are just as unique—they serve creative cocktails infused with local Thai herbs, fruits, and Ya Dong (Thai house-infused rum). It’s a sensory experience you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
If you have a sweet tooth or just need a quick break from walking, look for the glowing red neon sign of Ba Hao Tian Mi. This super-popular dessert kiosk is open right to the street side.
Grab a street-side stool for silky Chinese puddings at Ba Hao Tian Mi.
They specialize in modern Chinese-style puddings that are incredibly smooth, creamy, and not too sweet. The crowd favorites are the Goji Berry pudding and the rich Black Sesame pudding. It’s the perfect, comforting street-side snack to refuel your energy.
Teens of Thailand: Asia’s Legendary Gin Bar
You cannot say you’ve been to Soi Nana without stepping into Teens of Thailand. Hidden behind a massive, heavy vintage wooden door, this cozy, intimate space is widely credited with kickstarting the revival of this entire street.
Inside Teens of Thailand, one of Asia’s legendary craft gin bars.
It is officially ranked as one of Asia’s 50 Best Bars, and it is dedicated entirely to Gin and Tonics. They love to experiment by infusing their gin with local ingredients like dried longan, Thai basil, and local spices. Just tell the bartender what flavor profile you like, and they will craft a bespoke drink just for you.
Ba Hao: A Cinematic Retro Hideout
End your night at Ba Hao (the sister bar to the dessert shop). This place is a stunning, 1930s Shanghai-inspired bar and kitchen. With its deep red lights, vintage posters, and moody atmosphere, stepping inside feels like walking straight into a Wong Kar-wai movie scene.
Moody, Wong Kar-wai-inspired vibes and late-night comfort bites at Ba Hao.
They serve fantastic craft beers and unique cocktails, but the real star is their Chinese-inspired comfort food. Don’t leave without ordering their famous Duck Wontons or Spicy Tofu. Sitting by the large glass window on the ground floor, watching the quiet alley outside while soaking in the retro vibes, is unmatched.
