Winner: BKK Social Club
With all the awards and plaudits for this bar, you’d be forgiven for thinking this is a stuffy bar. It’s not. Sleek, glamorous, and dynamic, BKK Social Club always has a buzz about it but is never too loud — a space in the Four Seasons Bangkok to live the high life. Soaring ceilings, polished marble, velvet, greenery, and gilded era details make this spot weirdly intimate. The space will set the mood, and the drinks will keep you talking. For the best results, come dressed up and leave tipsy for a walk on the Chao Phraya.
Smalls
The bar from David Jacobson is a bit of a maze of corners and nooks to hide away during the day, but if you want a date where you can be alone late, go somewhere else. Smalls, in addition to being quite a good live music bar, is a great space to go for an early evening of chatting. The space is dimly lit and oddly romantic downstairs. If the weather’s nice, maybe take it up to the balcony upstairs, and if things go well, stick around while things get noisy. If things go really well, get a table by the band and see how your date dances.
Tictactoe
This might be one of the only bars in town that actually markets itself as a date bar — or rather nightclub. From the team behind the successful high-class Echelon club in Thonglor comes Tictactoe, a dating bar on the 5th floor of Emsphere. Tictacote lures you in with its sensual magenta and violet lighting, and the signature menu features 11 cocktails and reflects the escalating phases of getting to know that special someone. Break the Ice (B390) is an easy to drink sweet and zesty tipple with an umeshu and gin base. After that, you’re on your own.
Vesper
The Convent Road institution mixes high-end club polish with dark woods, white marble, and brass details. Founded by Choti and Debby Leenutaphong, the overall feeling of the space is a little bit old school, a little bit hyperchic. The cocktails will keep you talking (and taking pictures), and the intimate tables and dim lighting gives this a romantic atmosphere. If you’re looking for a date spot that is open late, Vesper keeps its doors open until 2am. Dress to impress, and keep the cocktails flowing.
1970 Bar
On the 39th floor of Dusit Thani, this is a mid-century modern paradise dripping with retro style. Designed by André Fu, the venue is divided into a Salon, Library, and Bar Boudoir. Start your evening at the Bar Boudoir and see where the evening takes you. Other than feeling like you’re at a 70s penthouse party, dive into a drinks menu that’s split up into a “Cocktail Directory” that will help you get to know your date. Depending on your style (and income), grab some food or maybe some of the oysters and caviar.
