COCONUTS HOT SPOT – We’re a bit tired of the rooftop revolution that’s sweeping through Bangkok. Every other week a big-name hotel is opening up another themed sky bar, all following the same general trend: overpriced drinks, neon lights and mediocre food. Oh yea, and a gimmicky name that has something to do with it not being on the ground level.
That’s why we like Jham Jun Phranakorn, a very small “rooftop” bar that’s actually only a few stories off the ground down on Phra Athit road. The bar ditches the tacky façade and focuses on making awesome food and serving up unique cocktails. There are no colorful lights or awful techno remixes playing here. The décor follows the minimalism trend and keeps the drinking area nice and open, with plenty of potted plants and a small stage where folks play acoustic music at a reasonable volume.
The view of Phra Athit below is characterized by two major points of interest on the skyline: the massive and modern Rama 8 bridge and the late 1700s Phra Sumera fortress almost side by side. After more than a few Beer Laos you might find yourself having a philosophical discussion about the contrast between old and new architecture in the City of Angels or some other academic subject. Enjoy!