Smalls Jazz Club: Music, Cocktails & Creative Vibes

Overview

Smalls is an atmospheric, multi-level neighbourhood bar tucked down Suan Phlu Soi 1 in Sathorn – a favourite among locals, expats and creatives looking for laid-back ambiance, live music, cocktails, and good food. Housed in an old three-storey shophouse, the venue blends vintage charm, art-filled walls and a welcoming spirit for music lovers and night owls alike.

📍 Location & Getting There

• Address: 186/3 Suan Phlu Soi 1, Thung Maha Mek, Sathorn, Bangkok 10120
• Nearest Transport: The closest BTS is Chong Nonsi, from which a moto-taxi or short taxi ride will get you to Suan Phlu (about 5–7 mins). It’s also about one kilometre from Silom MRT station.
• The bar lies down a quiet side-street, giving it a tucked-away, off-the-beaten-path feel, ideal for a relaxed, non-touristy night out.

History & Character

Smalls was established in 2014 by David Jacobson, the founder of the legendary Q Bar. It was conceived as a space combining jazz, art, and good drinks – a comfortable yet stylish “living-room-meets-bar” atmosphere.

Over the years, Smalls has built a reputation as one of Bangkok’s most creative nightlife venues – known for its artistic décor (including owner-curated contemporary art), late-night live music, cocktails and a mixed, international crowd.

Music & Atmosphere

• Live Jazz Nights: Smalls hosts live jazz (and other music) most nights: its hallmark is “Jazz Wednesdays”, where local jazz quartets or trios perform from roughly 9:30 pm until late.
• Other Nights: When not jazz night, expect DJs, funk, soul, occasional acoustic or alternative sets – the venue doesn’t stick strictly to one genre.
• Vibe: The interior is cozy, moody, a bit gritty in a charming way: exposed brick, vintage furniture, art pieces, dim lighting. Upstairs balconies or rooftop (when open) offer a more relaxed vibe; ground floor near the bar gets liveliest.
• Dress Code & Crowd: Casual, creative, relaxed. Smart-casual works fine. Crowd is a mix: local Thais, expats, artists, tourists who know the scene — inclusive and unpretentious.

Food & Drinks

Smalls offers a varied menu that goes beyond bar snacks: classics like burgers, pizzas, Vietnamese-style banh mi, pho, and hearty comfort dishes sit alongside shareable small plates — good for pairing with cocktails or beers without committing to a full dinner.

Drinks are a major draw: aside from beer and wine there’s an extensive cocktail list, house-special absinthes (homage to old-school jazz/bohemian vibes), spirits and well-made mixed drinks.

The venue’s late-night hours and full kitchen until late make it a reliable choice for drinks + food + live music all in one.

Practical Details & Opening Hours

• Open: Wednesday through Monday, from 18:00 (6:00 pm) to 02:00 (2:00 am). Closed on Tuesdays.
• Cover / Entry: Typically no cover charge for general admission. On live-music nights (like Jazz Wednesdays), get there ~9–9:30 pm if you want a good table.
• Suitability: Great for dates, groups, expats, and locals. Casual dress is fine. Food + drinks + music all available – good value compared with hotel-bar standards.
• Live music: check out the Smalls Facebook page (linked above) for up-to-date info on who’s playing.

Who Smalls Is Best For

• Jazz and live-music enthusiasts who want a relaxed, artistic venue rather than luxury.
• People who enjoy cocktails, absinthe, comfort food, and a social nightlife atmosphere.
• Visitors and expats seeking a “local night out” – not a tourist-heavy spot, but friendly and welcoming.
• Groups wanting a long evening: dinner + music + late-night drinks in one good location.

Why Visit Smalls

Smalls stands out because it isn’t trying to be fancy, instead it embraces authenticity. Its blend of jazz, art, cocktails, and convivial energy offers a different side of Bangkok nightlife: gritty in a good way, creative, and alive. Established by a nightlife legend, living with decades of heritage, and still relevant now – Smalls captures both history and a contemporary feel.

It’s especially good if you appreciate a bar that treats music, design and drink culture with equal respect: you get live jazz, thoughtful cocktails, hearty food, and an atmosphere that feels like a local secret rather than a tourist trap.