Time Out asked me to write a list of my favourite new cafes, and as I started to put it together, I found myself thinking back on how this all began. For the past eight years, my passion has been exploring Bangkok’s coffee scene. It started simply because I’ve always loved coffee. When I had a full-time job, I'd spend my weekends searching for interesting new cafes. Every time I discovered a place with delicious coffee or beautiful decor, I felt a spark of inspiration and didn't want to keep it to myself. Sharing those moments on Instagram became my way of documenting these small, joyful discoveries. It’s been my personal gallery, and I'm still amazed that so many people have followed along on this journey with me.
Over the years, people have always asked me, ‘How do you find all these new cafes?’ There's no one answer. Back in the day, I was part of a group of ‘cafe hoppers,’ and we’d share new spots with each other. I'm also lucky to have friends in the design world who sometimes give me a heads-up about a new project they're working on. For everything else, it’s a mix of my own methods: scouring hashtags, checking my social media feeds, and sometimes, I just stumble upon a new place while I’m out exploring.
Visiting so many places has taught me a lot. The most important lesson is that passion is an incredible source of energy. I love talking to baristas and owners, and in those conversations, I always see the dedication that drives them. Whether it’s their love for coffee, their meticulous attention to detail, or the sheer courage it takes to open a cafe in a city as competitive as Bangkok, that passion is what makes a place special.
When I evaluate a cafe, the coffee always comes first. That’s the key factor that determines if I’ll go back. It's not just about a delicious flavour; I look at the creativity of the menu and the thought process behind the selection of beans. The ambiance comes second, because I truly believe that great coffee tastes even better in a great atmosphere.
I've seen firsthand how a beautiful cafe can transform a neighborhood. The Song Wat area is a perfect example. It used to be a quiet, historic neighbourhood, but now, with over 20 cafes and more on the way, it's buzzing with life. These cafes have shone a spotlight on the area, drawing in new crowds, from young people to tourists. This small change has brought a new energy to the community, and it's inspiring to see.
My photography is something I’m often asked about, but honestly, there's no fixed technique. I just feel a connection with a certain angle or moment and I take the shot. I try to capture a sense of naturalness and movement. I look for the perfect timing, like when the light hits the room just right, or a barista is pouring a perfect latte. I love warm, brown tones – they just feel right for cafes. My style is also heavily influenced by the movies I watch, especially the work of directors like Wes Anderson, whose use of symmetry and composition I find really inspiring.
So what motivates me to keep exploring almost every day? It’s simple: I have fun. The city is always changing – the light, the colours, the mood of the people. And every time I discover a new corner or a new cafe, it feels like I've found a fresh burst of inspiration for my own life.
Bangkok’s love for coffee isn't just a trend; it's a reflection of the city itself. In a place that’s often chaotic and stressful, a cafe is a small space to breathe. It’s a moment of simple happiness. A cafe isn't just a place to buy coffee; for many of us, it’s a safe space to work, read, meet friends, or just be alone with our thoughts. This love for cafes also speaks to a new generation's appreciation for quality and experience. We no longer just drink coffee; we choose it. We choose it based on the origin, the brewing method and the story of the cafe itself. And of course, social media plays a huge role. A beautiful cafe and a great cup of coffee have become a part of our lifestyle that we want to share. This has pushed cafe owners to pay even more attention to every detail – the lighting, the design, and the entire customer experience.
I'm excited to share my list with you and hope you find as much joy in visiting these places as I did in discovering them.