Winner: Arcadia Live
Arcadia Live is a stone’s throw from the old location, now boasting more space, better seating, more gaming, more rooms, and that 80s cyberpunk design. While still sporting a very “geeks gone wild” atmosphere, this new venue will be the spot in 2026 to keep an eye on for events — comedy, live music, game nights, and, weirdly, professional wrestling (it’s a long story). This new venue has everything the old space was missing. Follow the blue dragon, get yourself an OG kratom, sidle up to an arcade machine, and enjoy the show.
Havana Social
The pre-revolutionary Cuba vibe is strong with this one. It’s big, loud, and young. Another club that’s been around a long time and has earned every single ounce of its clout, it’s a bit of a club, a bit of a bar, and a very on-point dance base. The theme here leans hard into both Latin themes and beats — and if you catch them on a really good night, you can learn a little bit of bachata dance. Keep up-to-date with this spot for their latest events, because the parties that spill out onto the street are the talk of the town.
Don’t Open the Fridge
If you know, you know. And if you don’t know, you’re going to think there’s a weirdly ornate refrigerator on Sukhumvit Soi 11. This area of Bangkok’s nightlife is known for its partying but not so much for creativity. Well, now there’s Don’t Open the Fridge. Opening earlier this year, this is a hidden dive bar in the heart of one of Bangkok’s most popular party districts. Think funky music, vintage digs, and creative cocktails. Do, in fact, open the fridge.
Residents Only
It’s a little big speakeasy, a little bit Kowloon Walled City. Residents Only is still pretty new on the Bangkok nightlife scene, but it’s already grabbed quite a few headlines as the premier bar on Sukhumvit Soi 55. The chaotic Hong Kong aesthetic, complete with vintage posters and exposed wires, is part of the DNA at this venue. Along with a healthy dose of guest shifts, you’ll find interesting events like Chinese Tea vs Japanese Tea mixology and the Agave After Curfew series.
Tep Bar
This has got to be the number one spot for taking tourists from out of town, but that doesn’t mean locals don’t love it. It’s Thai culture through music, cocktails, and ambiance, and if you have a hankering for traditional Thai spirits, this is the first stop. Of course, everyone knows there’s classic Thai music here, but what you might not know is that you can really get into it. If you’re new to Thai herbal liquor, don’t miss out on the Naga Fireball and E-Sarn Rocket.
