The Bamboo Bar – Iconic Jazz & Cocktails at Mandarin Oriental, Riverside Bangkok
Overview
The Bamboo Bar, tucked into the riverside wing of the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, is widely considered one of the city’s most refined jazz venues. Housed in a space that feels like an elegant 1950s lounge, the bar combines world-class live music, masterful mixology, and a storied heritage. It’s not inexpensive, but here you’re paying for impeccable service, ambiance, and craftsmanship – everything from the décor to the cocktails feels top-tier.
📍 Location & Getting There
- Where: Mandarin Oriental, Riverside Bangkok, along the Chao Phraya River, in the hotel’s River Wing.
- Transport: Easily accessible via river taxi or by road. If you’re using BTS / MRT, the nearest major access point is via the river transport network rather than a direct skytrain station.
- Setting: The bar overlooks the riverbank, with vintage rattan seating, bamboo accents, and a design that evokes a classic colonial lounge – all quietly luxurious.
History & Prestige
- The Bamboo Bar first opened in 1953, making it one of Bangkok’s earliest jazz venues and a significant part of the city’s cultural fabric.
- It was originally located in the hotel’s “Authors’ Wing” and has evolved over the decades, becoming a globally recognized destination for jazz lovers.
- In 2014, the bar underwent a major renovation by Thai design firm P49 Deesign, preserving its character but updating the space with modern touches – restored rattan seating, bamboo features, and a layout that feels both intimate and grand.
- The bar celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2023, marking its long-standing legacy in Bangkok’s jazz and hospitality scene.
Music & Atmosphere
- The Bamboo Bar maintains a live music schedule seven nights a week:
- Monday–Thursday: Live jazz band + vocalist from 8:00 pm to 11:45 pm
- Friday–Saturday: Performances extend until 12:45 am
- Sunday: A solo pianist performs from 9:00 pm to 11:45 pm
- The style is elegant and classic – jazz and blues dominate, with occasional nods to swing, bossa nova, or mellow lounge sets.
- The ambiance reflects vintage sophistication: soft lighting, bamboo motifs, rattan furniture, and a warm but exclusive feel.
Drinks, Cocktails, Food & Pricing
- The bar’s Evolution cocktail menu is inspired by bamboo itself and features ingredients drawn from local Thai produce – mango, lemongrass, banana – reimagined in refined, contemporary cocktails.
- There’s also a list of classic cocktails – the menu includes elevated takes on timeless drinks.
- Example prices:
- Vesper (gin / vodka / Lillet): THB 600
- New York Sazerac: THB 620
- Smoked Bamboo: THB 580
- Prices are subject to a 10% service charge and 7% VAT plus 11% excise tax.
- The Bamboo Bar also boasts one of Thailand’s best single malt whisky collections, catering to serious spirit lovers as well as cocktail fans.
The Bamboo Bar’s food menu is relatively restrained, focusing on sharing-style platters rather than full meals – small bites and snack plates make it ideal for pairing with drinks without turning the evening into a dinner. The light fare complements the sophisticated cocktail list and live-music vibe.
You can take a look at the extensive drinks menu linked at the top of the page.
Dress Code & House Rules
- After 6:30 pm, the dress code is elegant attire: men should wear long trousers and closed shoes; sleeveless shirts are not permitted.
- No reservations are accepted, which is rare for a bar of this prestige.
- Guests under 20 years old are welcome before 7:30 pm; after that, they may join adults only on the outdoor terrace, subject to availability.
Why Go Here
- Historic & Iconic: It’s Bangkok’s first jazz bar, steeped in decades of history and atmosphere.
- Unmatched Quality: Live music almost every night, curated cocktails, and an ambiance that balances luxury with intimacy.
- Celebrated Legacy: A 70-year plus presence in Bangkok, with local and international acclaim and a reputation for excellence.
- Special Experience: Whether you’re here for a romantic evening, a refined nightcap, or just to hear great jazz, The Bamboo Bar delivers in a way few venues can.
Tips for Visiting
- Go early: Because reservations aren’t accepted, coming shortly after 5 pm when it opens will give you a better chance of securing a good seat.
- Dress well: Make sure you meet the dress code so you don’t risk being turned away.
- Be ready to spend: It’s not a budget jazz bar. Cocktails around 600 THB are standard for signature creations.
- Enjoy the atmosphere: Take time to soak in the décor – the design is deeply tied to the bar’s history, and it’s as much a visual experience as a musical one.
Final Thought
The Bamboo Bar at the Mandarin Oriental is more than just a place to hear jazz – it’s a destination in its own right. With its storied past, exceptional mixology, and nightly live performances, it represents one of the highest-quality live music experiences in Bangkok. For visitors and locals alike, an evening here is a chance to step back into a golden era of style, sophistication, and sound. For more details and to find out what’s on, check out the official website, drinks menu and social media at the top of this page.
