It seems that a world trip is not complete without a visit to one of the many Hard Rock Cafés spread around the globe. Bangkok's offering comes complete with classic rock & roll music all day long, including live bands every night. All three levels are decorated with music memorabilia and a function room can accommodate groups of up to 40 people. The bar serves exotic cocktails and beer. In keeping with the Hard Rock-style, they serve burgers, steaks and other Western-style entrees too. Call for additional information.
If you are looking for a loud, energetic and crowded gay bar, then Telephone is the place for you. The simple design and relaxed atmosphere keep the regulars happy and continues to attract new faces. Outside, the split level seating is always packed with locals and tourists alike, a prime spot for people watching. Inside, there are two levels, several separate bars and loads of booths, each with its own telephone to call up other tables (hence the name). If singing is your thing, then you will be delighted to know that the bar also offers karaoke. There is a reasonable menu of mainly Thai dishes. Drinks cover all the usual Soi 4 bases, including large lethal jugs of frozen margaritas. Come, party!
Bourbon Street Restaurant & Oyster Bar serves a wonderful mix of spicy Cajun/Creole food that you will not find anywhere else in Bangkok, and it is 100 percent American owned and operated. The restaurant is the winner of many awards and is listed as one of the "Best Bars & Grills in Asia" by Newsweek International. Menu highlights include Bar-B-Q Baby Back Ribs, Char Grilled Steaks and Fried Chicken. There is also a great brunch and selection of alcoholic drinks. For larger parties and functions, the restaurant offers a catering service.
Rock artists have gone and come, reigns of the music industry have changed hands, but Rock Pub stands steady and scales new heights with each passing year. It is one of the most sought after and prestigious venues of Thailand. International, local rock-bands and performers have graced its stage. Sodom, Dragon Force, Doro and many other popular artists fill-up the entire calendar at Rock Pub. While enjoying your kinda music, you can savor dishes with innovative names like 'Rock n' Roll Pork Steak' & 'Tuna Salad'. The adventurous ones can try cocktails like 'Wonderful Tonight' or 'Crazy Train'. While in Bangkok, do not miss out on this interesting venue with good food and cool music.
Take the elevator to the 31st floor of the Millennium Hilton, and then climb one flight of stairs to feel at the top of the world. The windows of the Hilton's Three Sixty Bar are cleverly angled for spectacular views. One side of the lounge looks down over the Chao Praya River for a fascinating view of the brightly-lit dinner cruise ships, the little ferry boats, and the huge barges that plow up and down the waterway. The drinks list is long, with a range of cocktails and a good selection of spirits, and there is a small selection of tapas-style dishes for those who want to nibble. The comfortable seating, low lighting and excellent jazz music make Three Sixty a choice venue for a romantic evening. - Alyson Hilbourne
With Stella Artois, Hoegaarden and Leffe Blonde on draft and many more beers including Waterloo, Duvel, Kwak, Orval and traditional fruit beers by the bottle, the House of Beers is the place for the beer connoisseur. The bar is situated at a busy corner on Thonglor, and reservations are recommended on weekends. Inside, the deep red tiled floor, brick-faced walls and wooden furniture mellow what is a very modern building. Outside is a small terrace area with seating. The menu offers Belgian favorites such as Croque Monsieur and Croque Madame, grilled pork chops and fish and chips, and a selection of soups, salads and pastas; but the beer is the main attraction in this busy bar. Watch the website because there are plans to open more branches in Bangkok. - Alyson Hilbourne