Locals don’t exactly broadcast this one, but Wat Arun Residence’s balcony exists. Inside, it’s low lights, decent AC, all the comforts. But when a balcony table clears, move fast if you want the full theatre of Bangkok’s riverside Old Town spread before you.
Dusk is stunning from here. The sun drops, city lights cue in and Wat Arun glows golden straight across the Chao Phraya. Good food, outdoor drinks with a view cameras love, but honestly, the draw is just being in Old Town in this light (great solo, better as a two-top!).
Cocktails have range here: playfully named with Old Town references (sala martini, Bangkok sour, Siam spice) and solid classics. Bartenders read the room, experiment when it fits, execute clean when it’s time. Thai craft beers hold their own too. Do we say it’s the best golden hour in Bangkok? That’s a fight waiting to happen. But late sun on those temple spires, dark river rolling underneath: pretty hard to argue otherwise.