Crimson Room
From the team behind Rabbit Hole, Crimson Room features a steady stream of live acts every night at a bar as well known for its cocktails as its tunes—complete with an art deco interior and a romantic vibe. Slathered in a 20’s-style Gatsby-like vibe, here you’ll find music centered on talented crooners, artists, and musicians playing smooth, relatable songs. But don’t be fooled; this spot can party.
87 Langsuan Rd., 062-259-2525. Open daily 6pm-late.
Finalist: Jam
Changing owners in 2024, Jam is one of the most loved live music venues, in part because it doesn’t take itself too seriously. Seating is scarce at the downstairs floor, but this isn’t exactly a sitting and chilling sort of place. Sure, they’ve got metal and DJs and dancing, but you’ll also find Bangkok’s local and experimental acts playing to a crowd of regulars. You never know what you’re going to get here—from masked singers to karaoke on the toilet.
41, Charoen Rat Soi 1, 093-592-9902. Open Wed-Thu 6pm-midnight; Fri-Sat 6pm-late; Sun 6pm-midnight.
Finalist: Blueprint Livehouse
Opening in 2023, Blueprint Livehouse has fast become the place Bangkok looks for innovative live music. Under blue lights, this is the place where popular local acts are born and where niche international acts come to make a splash. Found on the second floor of Flow House, this Khlong Toei space is just as likely to play shoegaze or metal, a one-stage venue that packs in the local fans and bands.
2/F @Flow House, 120/1 Sukhumvit Soi 26. Open per announcement.
Finalist: Buddha & Pals
A chill, well designed space that is equal parts cafe, restaurant, bar, and live music venue. While you’re likely to stop by for a little brunch and coffee during the daylight hours, at night the focus turns to the live tunes. With a focus on jazz, the cocktails here are carefully crafted (though pricey) and the seating faces the live bands that play Tuesday through Sunday.
712 Krung Kasem Rd., 061-585-9283. Open Tue-Sun 10am-late.
Finalist: Smalls
Smalls is an institution. Jazz, blues, rock—it’s a space everyone in Bangkok goes at least once and regulars can’t escape. The bar from David Jacobson, which grabbed a spot on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 51-100 in 2022, is a bit of a maze of corners and nooks to hide away. Unlike a lot of other live music venues in Bangkok, this spot boasts excellent cocktails and good food.
186, 3-4 Suan Phlu Soi 1, 089-666-5429. Mon 6pm-late; Tue-Sun 6pm-late.
