The last time we visited Vesper, the popular bar on Soi Convent, had just finished renovations and was touting an art-inspired menu created by then head bartender Supawit “Palm” Muttarattana. Not soon after, the bar was recognized in the drinking scene as one of Asia’s best.
Several years have passed and we didn’t think Vesper could get any better. Well, we’ve never been happier to say that we were wrong.
The 46th best bar on Asia's 50 Best roster welcomed 2022 with the arrival of a new bar manager—mixology veteran Federico Balzarini, who used to put together drinks at the famed American Bar at The Savoy in London.
“I can feel that both Thai and European drinkers enjoy the same tipple taste, but people here [in Bangkok] seem to relish more on the sugary side,” the Italian bartender says. Being in a completely new environment has inspired him to bring his “less is more” motto to Vesper’s cocktail offerings.
This has led to a rework of Vesper’s signature Contrast menu. In Contrast Edition 3, Federico holds tight to the concept of combining completely contrasting ingredients into one lip-smacking cocktail. Tipsy/Sober (B370), for instance, is a sparkling wine-based drink that mixes white chocolate, coconut water and a shiso leaf. Then you have Beginning/End/Beginning (B440), which uses Japanese craft gin Roku as a base for a mix that includes yuzu sake, sparkling wine, and saffron sorbet.
Other menu highlights include Beauty and the Beast (B440), which combines rum, white wine, and umeshu with black tea. The drink is inspired by the Disney version of the fairytale, hence the presence of a beautiful rose as a topper. Vodka enthusiasts will love Young/Old (B370), which playfully mixes the spirit with peanuts, Milo and a hint of tabasco.
If you’re feeling extravagant, go for Classic/Fashion. Priced at B1,300, it has a generous serving of premium whiskey and wine from Italy. It’s also served with a crispy cheese cracker.
