Saxophone Pub – Live Jazz, Blues & More
Overview
Saxophone Pub is one of Bangkok’s most legendary live-music venues – a long-running institution that has been central to the city’s jazz and blues scene for decades. Located a short walk from BTS Victory Monument, the club is famous for high-quality musicianship, a friendly local crowd, and reliably busy evenings that often stretch late into the night. If you want a full-on live-music night in Bangkok with several bands and a genuine club atmosphere, Saxophone Pub is a must-visit.
Location & Getting There
Address: 3/8 Phayathai Road (Soi Ratchawithi), Victory Monument, Bangkok 10400.
Nearest transport: BTS Victory Monument – a very short walk from the station, take exit 4. The venue sits just off the Victory Monument traffic circle and is well signposted at night. Very easy to reach by BTS if you’re staying in the Siam or Sukhumvit area.
A Short History (Why it matters)
Saxophone Pub opened in the late 1980s and has operated continuously as one of the city’s principal live-music hubs since then. Over the years it has hosted countless Thai and international artists, helping to establish Bangkok’s reputation as a regional centre for jazz and blues. Its longevity makes the pub not only an entertainment venue but also a cultural landmark in Bangkok’s nightlife history.
Music & Atmosphere – What to Expect
Saxophone Pub’s programme is deliberately eclectic and musician-led. Jazz forms a central part of the line-up, but the stage regularly features blues, reggae, Latin, funk and rock sets, often within the same night – giving the venue broad appeal. On a typical evening you’ll hear a mix of classic standards, instrumental improvisations, and crowd-pleasing covers alongside originals.
The venue itself feels like an old-school music pub: wooden furniture, a clearly visible stage, memorabilia on the walls, and a lively, social atmosphere. It’s loud enough to feel like a proper concert but intimate enough you can still watch the musicians clearly from most tables. Regulars include musicians, expats, and local music fans, and the crowd skews mixed-age and welcoming.
Typical Show Format & Schedule
Saxophone Pub typically runs multiple live sets in one evening – many nights feature three bands, with performances beginning around 7:30 pm and the final band usually finishing close to 1:30 am. This makes it ideal for a full dinner + music night: arrive early for dinner and a good table, stay through the second set, and end the evening with the final act. The venue posts weekly schedules and band line-ups on its official channels for the most current programming.
Food, Drinks & Practical Details
Saxophone Pub is also a restaurant, offering a mix of Thai and Western dishes that pair naturally with the music. The drink list includes draft beers, bottled options, and a classic cocktail selection. Pricing is moderate for a live-music venue in central Bangkok – expect pub prices rather than top-tier rooftop rates.
Hours: Open daily from early evening; live music typically runs from around 7:30 pm until late (final act close to 1:30 am). Exact opening hours may vary, so check the venue website or call ahead for special holiday hours.
Cover / Entry: There is typically no strict entry fee; the venue operates on food/drink sales and tips. Some special nights or major guest acts may attract a cover charge – consult the weekly schedule for details.
Who It’s Best For
- Jazz & blues enthusiasts who want consistent, high-quality live music.
- Visitors seeking an authentic Bangkok music experience with atmosphere and history.
- Groups who want a long evening (dinner + three live sets) without venue hopping.
- Anyone looking to hear a range of styles – from straight jazz to reggae and Latin – in one night.
Tips for Visiting
- Arrive early (7–8 pm) to secure a table close to the stage, especially on weekends. The venue grows busy after 9 pm.
- Check the schedule before you go; Saxophone posts its weekly band line-up on its website and Facebook page (links at top of page).
- Book for groups: If you’re in a party of six or more, consider calling ahead to reserve.
- Expect a lively, social crowd – it’s part pub, part club, and part music hall.
Why Saxophone Pub Still Matters
Few venues in Bangkok combine consistent nightly live music, broad stylistic range, and a genuine historical presence as well as Saxophone Pub. It remains a reference point in the city’s music map: a place to hear excellent musicians, catch late-night jams, and experience a long tradition of live performance that helped define Bangkok’s contemporary nightlife. For many visitors and locals, a night at Saxophone is more than just a gig – it’s a proper introduction to the city’s musical heart.
