Previously known for being a hub for dive bars and unpretentious eateries, Ratchathewi is on its way to becoming a bit cooler, thanks to the emergence of art galleries and upscale cafés. Hip kids and artheads alike flock into the neighborhood in hopes of finding a new favorite hangout—like Piccolo Vicolo.
This new café, tucked away on Wat Phraya Yang alley, is part of the upcoming art and lifestyle community estate called Galileoasis, and its location kind of makes sense as its title actually means “small alley” in Italian.
Owner Nara “Pan” Lojanatorn saw an opportunity to create a space where city-dwellers can escape the city’s hustle and bustle, and cocoon in her intimate alley cafe. Pan and her family (who are all passionate designers) decided to launch Piccolo Vicolo as an introduction to their estate, a preview of what is yet to come. “We want this place to be a small community, consisting of a restaurant, café, gallery, theater, hotel and record store,” she says.
The café is set in a 50-year-old shophouse that’s decorated with wooden vintage decor and some greenery. In contrast, modish green glass lanterns hang over an expansive counter, bringing a hint of color to the shop’s bare walls and minimalist interiors.
Like any other modern-day coffeehouse, Piccolo Vicolo has a couple of unconventional signature drinks on its menu—Black Coconut (B140) and Black Lemon (B140) are two drinks that showcase the team’s homemade syrups. Conventional drinkers can opt for aromatic blends made with international and local beans, like Artisan, which has nutty and chocolate hints, and Lively, a brew with a more refreshing hit.
