Toey Sarunrat

Labelled a teen for being ‘too much,’ Madame Rouge now runs Bangkok’s most fabulous entertainment empire – where every show is sparkly, surreal and just a little unhinged. Just the way she likes it. In the middle of Bangkok’s Chinatown, inside Chop Chop Cook Shop, a five-storey shophouse that now serves as a nostalgic tribute to old-world cookshops and neon-lit alleyways, something magical came to life. Our latest digital cover shoot with Madame Rouge, Bangkok’s burlesque powerhouse, captures contradictions, cinematic tension and the spirit of a woman who refuses to live a double life. Photograph: Pavel She steps into frame wearing sequins, satin and all the sass in the world. But make no mistake – what you see isn’t a persona she puts on. It’s who she is. ‘I’ve been this person my whole life,’ she says. ‘Even as a kid I was confident, dramatic, opinionated (when I was a toddler, my parent’s friends gave me the nickname Auntie Jade). That kind of boldness wasn’t always welcomed. I was relentlessly bullied during my awkward teenage years. Acne, weird fashion choices, big energy. But I didn’t know how to be anyone else.   Photograph: Pavel   Born in Hong Kong, raised across continents from Canada and the U.S. to Beijing and now based in Bangkok, Madame Rouge – also known off-stage as Jade – channels her life’s winding journey into her art. Her brand is burlesque, but her power lies in how she stitches together East and West, nostalgia and absurdity, grit and glam. ‘Growin

Bangkok is the kind of city that never really stops moving. Even when the bars empty out and the last train has left the station, there’s always a hum of life somewhere, whether it’s a late-night street food vendor flipping omelettes over a hot wok or a 24-hour restaurant serving up steaming bowls of noodles to bleary-eyed shift workers, insomniacs and partygoers who aren’t ready to call it a night. While the convenience store might have instant noodles and reheated meals, there’s something about sitting down at a proper restaurant – no matter the hour – that just feels right.

Bangkok’s craft beer scene has been quietly but steadily growing and if you know where to look, you’ll find some of the best pints in town. Some spots are laid-back shophouse gems, while others are high-energy beer halls. These bars prove that the city is serious about craft brews. Here’s where to go when you need a solid pour and a good vibe.

Attempting to put together a list of the 50 best restaurants in Bangkok is an unenviable task. No matter how hard you try, you’re going to be leaving out not just good restaurants, but mind-bendingly good restaurants. Indeed, the process of assembling the following list involved not only signal-boosting some of our favourite culinary craftspeople, but also a painful triage of a host of excellent venues. That’s just how dense with excellence this city is when it comes to quality dining.  What makes eating out here so brilliant is the sheer diversity – both cultural and economic – of the Big Mango’s food scene and our top 50 aims to reflect that. Were we to focus purely on the set-menu avant-garde and quiet-luxury omakase counters, it would be a disservice to a readership that doesn’t just want food to look at, photograph and read about, but wants to eat. Therefore, we include some of the city’s most dazzling palaces of haute cuisine alongside humble streetside vendors. We’re serious eaters more than withering critics, and Bangkok is a city full of serious eats. Hence, we want to share our favourites and leave it to you, the reader, to be the withering critic. Dive in and enjoy the ride!

There’s something about dim sum that always feels like a special occasion, even if you’re just squeezing it into a late morning or casual lunch. Dim sum isn’t just food, it’s a ritual. In Bangkok, the dim sum scene is layered, part old-school, part experimental and part luxury. A table full of bamboo steamers, clinking teacups, a mix of conversation and chopsticks darting across dishes. These are the spots that get it right, and why they deserve your time.

True music lovers know that Bangkok’s best record shops aren’t just selling vinyl – they’re keeping music culture alive. In an age when most people stream music on their phones while doom-scrolling, there’s still a corner of Bangkok for those who like their sound analogue, their records dusty and their music experience tangible. Whether you're a seasoned crate-digger or someone who just got their first turntable last week, the city is filled with low-key gems that don’t just sell records – they build communities, fuel obsessions and remind you why physical music still matters. So bring cash, bring time and, most importantly, bring curiosity.

Phrom Phong is a paradox of old and new, where high-end retail rubs shoulders with hole-in-the-wall eateries. It’s a district that refuses to be defined by a single narrative – part cosmopolitan, part hidden enclave of subcultures. Whether you’re chasing culinary excellence, a quiet literary escape, or a slice of Bangkok’s underground music scene, Phrom Phong delivers with a lively mix of establishments, each with its own niche appeal. Here’s Time Out’s curated list of places worth visiting in Phrom Pong.

The City of Angels is where history and modern life collide in the most fascinating ways. From centuries-old temples and royal residences to palaces of a more contemporary and commercial nature, the city’s cultural attractions tell the story of Thailand’s past and present. No matter if you’re here for a short trip or planning to explore every corner of the metropolis over many days, these five Time Out recommendations capture the Thai capital’s spirit in ways you won’t find elsewhere, giving you a different piece of the fascinating puzzle that is Bangkok.

Todsapol Top Maisuk has lived many lives, some on screen, some in the everyday chaos of Bangkok. He’s been the teen soaking up Songkran on Khaosan road, the engineer-to-be contemplating his career path, and now, the actor stepping into roles that challenge both himself and the industry he’s part of. But in every version of himself, one thing stays the same: his grounded perspective to life and work. Photograph: STYLEdeJATE “I started acting when I was in Year 11, doing commercial castings,” he says. “Along the way, I found that I was genuinely happy doing this.” It wasn’t an overnight revelation, but a steady realisation – one that kept pulling him back, even when other career paths seemed more stable. Acting is unstable, but then again, life itself is uncertain. Realising that early on helped me make my choice. How Bangkok influences his move Bangkok is both a backdrop to Todsapol’s life and a city that shapes who he is. His early Songkran memories are straight out of a coming-of-age film – riding in the back of a truck, dunking himself into a ceramic water barrel to warm up from the cold splashes. Then came the wilder years at Khaosan, where the street turned into a blur of neon, soaked travellers and fleeting connections.   Photograph: STYLEdeJATE Todsapol’s go-to water fight attire perfectly reflects the traditional outfits worn by Thai people during the festival. “Tank tops with those classic Hawaiian patterns, comfy shorts, and affordable slides or sneakers so when

Bangkok's jazz scene is a community, a culture, and for many, a lifestyle. For long-time enthusiasts or someone who's simply curious about jazz, Bangkok has a range of places where you can feel the soul of the music. These venues have stood the test of time, each offering its own distinctive vibe and a relaxed atmosphere where you can truly enjoy the music. Here are some of the best venues to explore the world of jazz in the city.  

Bangkok’s dining scene never ceases to impress with new restaurants constantly adding fresh energy to the city’s vibrant food landscape. While elegant fine dining establishments often steal the spotlight with their refined menus and impeccable presentation, casual eateries play an equally important role in shaping the city’s culinary identity. From bustling street-side stalls to trendy bistros, these spots capture the capital’s lively spirit through bold flavours, creative concepts and inviting atmospheres. If you’re planning a romantic evening for two, a laid-back family dinner or even a solo food adventure, there’s no shortage of exciting options. The city’s diverse culinary landscape continues to expand, offering everything from Cantonese and French delicacies to comforting Burmese dishes. Whether you’re drawn to modern fusion cuisine or timeless classics, there’s always something new to discover.

Bangkok is a city that never sleeps – witness the thrumming traffic, heaving malls, busy street stalls, night markets, endless restaurants and bars. But beyond the chaos and constant movement, the capital also offers quieter, more magical moments, especially at sunset when the heat drops, everyone heaves a collective sigh and slows down a little. Watching the sun dip in Bangkok feels like hitting the pause button for a precious moment. Here then is an insider’s guide to the best spots to catch the golden hour in the Big Mango.

If you’ve heard of Che Kiang Joke Kong Prab, chances are you’ve been curious about its reputation. A well-known spot in Chok Chai 4 area, this porridge joint has two locations, one in Chok Chai 4 and another in Sai Mai. It’s been serving congee for years. Che Kiang stands out for being open 24 hours, which means it’s the perfect place to hit up when hunger strikes late at night. The menu offers a variety of Cantonese favourites beyond just porridge including guay chap and tue huan geim chai, among others. Its porridge is not overly complicated, just a very decent, straightforward bowl of Cantonese-style congee that hits the spot. If you’re someone who dislikes artificial flavours, this place will likely be a good fit for you. But here’s the real highlight, the crispy noodles, which are unlimited, and you can load them up as much as you like. It’s a simple thing, but it adds an extra level of satisfaction to your meal. 97 Chok Chai 4 Rd, Lat Phrao. 02-933-3118. Open 24 hours.

Located inside the Malaysia Hotel on Rama IV, Malai Restaurant is one of those places you stumble upon and immediately appreciate for what it is – an easy stop when you’re in the mood for a no-hassle meal. This restaurant offers comfort food with a touch of nostalgia as the vibe inside is unmistakably ‘90s, and not in the trendy, retro-cool way but more like the kind of place your parents might have taken you to when you were younger, with that simple, homey feel. What’s impressive about Malai is the attention to the little things done well. Take soft-boiled rice, for example. It’s perfectly cooked and you can choose from different options: classic white rice infused with pandan, blue-hued rice from butterfly pea flowers, or a brown rice version. Stir-fried Chinese black olives with minced pork is the kind of simple comfort food that hits just right. Malai’s not trying to reinvent the wheel, but it’s a reminder of how comforting and satisfying familiar, well-executed dishes can be. No matter if you’re here for a quick bite or a relaxed meal, Malai offers the kind of place that feels like home. 54 Ngam Duphli Alley, Thung Maha Mek, Sathon. 02-679-7127. Open 24 hours.

If you ask any Bangkokian about a place to eat late at night, A Ramen, a well-known spot in Bangkok for its mellow flavours, will probably come up. A Ramen has several 24-hour branches and is a must-visit for anyone who loves authentic Japanese ramen. The shop, with its Japanese-inspired decor, provides an interactive ordering system, letting you customise your ramen – choose your spice level, richness and toppings as if you're ticking boxes on an exam. The ramen here is perfectly balanced, with deep, comforting broth, chewy noodles and all the right toppings. Whether it’s midnight or sunrise, this is the perfect spot for a quick, satisfying bowl of ramen. It’s also a lifesaver for many when they need something soothing after a long night out. It’s been serving comforting bowls of ramen for eight years and while the portions aren’t huge, the broth is rich and packed with flavour. People show up here at all hours, from students cramming for exams to regulars who’ve been coming for years. There’s something about slurping down a bowl of steaming noodles in the quiet hours of the night that makes you feel like you’re part of some secret club. Samyan Mitrtown 1/F, 944/1 Rama IV Rd, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan. 02-219-1519. Open 24 hours.

Chamchuri is your spot if you’re after a budget-friendly crab fried rice that doesn’t skimp on the actual crab. Located inside what looks like someone’s family home, it’s got that low-key vibe that delivers in a big way. The rice itself is standard fare, but they really load it up with crab – so much that you wonder how they’re still making a profit. It’s reliable, straightforward, and always hits the spot. 1050 1 Pracha Chuen 31, Wong Sawang, Bang Sue. 063-247-1099. Open daily 10.30am-10pm. Closed Wednesday. 

Right near IMPACT, this joint is loved by the local crowd and concert arena-goers. The star is fried rice with crab, of course. But this isn’t normal crab fried rice – they know how to handle the heat. The rice is dry, perfectly separated, with just the right amount of oil, and the crab meat comes in generous, satisfying chunks. The seasoning is restrained but confident. This is the kind of place where the wok is clearly in the hands of someone who’s been doing this long enough to know how to control fire without even looking. 29 Soi Chang Watthana 14, Thung Song Hong, Lak Si. 02-982-7925. Open daily 11am-9.30pm.

Popular for its intense-flavoured Thai food, fewer people know though that Rongros’s fried rice is a standout as well. The ‘khao pad sam mhen’ – or ‘three-stinker fried rice’ – is made with cha-om, sataw (stink beans and pickled garlic, all stir-fried with quality shrimp and shrimp paste. The flavours are intense, with each ingredient adding its own distinct punch. This is one for those who appreciate these flavours – if you do, you’ll definitely come back for more. And while the food stands out, the view of Wat Arun from the dining room adds something special to the experience. 392/16 Maha Rat Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon. 096-946-1785. Open daily 11am-2.30pm, 5pm-10pm.

If you're looking for a burger joint that delivers both quality and atmosphere, 25 Degrees, located inside the Pullman Bangkok Hotel G, has long been a standout in the city's burger scene. The spot captures the feel of a retro American diner, with dim lighting, leather booths and a casual atmosphere. The menu goes beyond the basics. Guests can expect juicy, well-cooked patties whether they’re into beef, pork or even plant-based options. And don't rush past the truffle fries – they're crispy, indulgent and a perfect pairing for any burger. Beyond the food, the restaurant nails the vibe with a setting that’s just as much about comfort and nostalgia as it is about the food. Whether you’re here to watch the game or simply enjoy a satisfying meal, it’s a reliable choice for anyone craving a burger in Bangkok, done just right. 188 Silom Rd, Surawongse, Bang Rak. 02-352-4192. Open 24 hours.

What started as a low-key spot above a noodle shop has now become a certified seafood institution – and a six-time Michelin Bib Gourmand winner to prove it. At Here Hai, the crab fried rice is cooked over intense heat with traditional Chinese techniques, the rice comes out deeply aromatic, every grain seared with wok hei and packed with flavour. The crab is generous, fresh and straight from Surat Thani. Go for the ‘koad kan chiang’ (insane lump crab meat fried rice) if you're serious. 112/1 Ekkamai Rd, Khwaeng Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana. 063-219-9100. Open daily 10am-3pm, 4pm-5.30pm. Closed Monday

Started off as an online hustle and now standing as a full-fledged restaurant, Lucky’s goes all-in on the retro charm of what Thais call American fried rice – that weird but beloved dish with ketchup-stained rice, a sunny-side-up egg and protein overload. What sets this place apart is how unapologetically big everything is – giant golden fried chicken leg, thick-cut ham, quality sausage – like an American diner plate that ended up in a Thai kitchen. The rice itself is mild, borderline neutral, but it works – it’s made to balance the boldness of everything else. And yes, they refrigerate the rice after mixing it with sauce before frying – it’s a small detail, but it makes for a better texture. 9/1 Soi Ari 3, Phaya Thai. 088-696-6556. Open daily 8am-10pm.

This one leans heavily into Thai-Chinese nostalgia. What makes it stand out is the option to load it up with Chinese sausage and red pork for that full-on, old-school vibe. Each grain stays intact, no clumps, no sogginess. Plus, they serve it with that classic prik nam pla (fish sauce with finely chopped bird’s eye chili) – a little acidic kick that makes the whole thing come alive. Get the large portion if you’re going with friends. Or just don’t plan to share. 406 Chan Rd, Wat Phraya Krai, Bang Kho Laem. 094-956-4488. Open daily 9am-8pm. Closed Thursday. 

At first glance, this place looks like your average curry-rice joint, but order their ‘khao pad pa’ and you’ll know it’s not. This ‘forest fried rice’ is like nothing you’ve had before – fragrant with Thai herbs, it’s packed with cha-om, baby corn, Thai eggplant, yard-long beans, dried shrimp, fresh shrimp and fresh chilies. It’s a field trip through the Thai countryside, all in one pan. Slightly spicy, deeply aromatic, and full of textures – this dish has no right to be this under the radar. 461 Phra Sumen Rd, Wat Bowon Niwet, Phra Nakhon. 02-281-0652. Open daily 5.30am-5pm. Closed Sunday

In the middle of Chinatown, this restaurant is known for its way around a wok, shark fin (yes, the controversial kind), and a solid lineup of Chinese-style carbs. The fried rice, which comes with either shrimp or crab, is the real standout – the kind that hits your tongue with a punch of soy, garlic and wok hei – that elusive ‘bottom of the pan aroma’ that comes from high-heat stir-frying and the fiery breath of the wok. Go late, go hungry, and expect to leave with that unmistakable kitchen scent clinging to your clothes. 423 Yaowarat 3 Alley, Samphanthawong. 085-622-2989. Open daily 7pm-2.30am. Closed Monday.

Coachella 2025 had it all – viral moments, surprise guests, and enough star power to crash the internet. Lisa Lalisa Manobal, global pop sensation and member of BLACKPINK, has once again proven her status as a powerhouse performer, claiming the number two spot in earned media value (EMV) during Coachella 2025. According to influencer analytics platform Lefty.io, Lisa generated an impressive $9.5 million (approx. B350 million) in EMV, placing just behind fellow BLACKPINK member Jennie, who topped the chart at $13 million (approx. B480 million) following her solo debut performance of Ruby. Also in the top five EMV rankings were Enhypen at number three with $9.3 million (approx. B342 million), Benson Boone with $6.7 million (approximately B247 million), and Travis Scott with $5 million (approx. B183 million). Held across two weekends in California’s Colorado Desert, this year’s Coachella lineup was brimming with global stars – from Lady Gaga to Travis Scott and Post Malone. But it was Lisa’s electrifying presence on the Sahara Stage that sparked a global buzz online, with fans and fashion insiders praising her powerful performance and genre-defying looks.Lisa’s Coachella 2025 appearance marked her return as a solo artist, with two sets across both weekends. Her week one performance hit the Sahara tent and quickly became one of the most talked-about highlights of the festival, breaking into Coachella’s Top 10 most-viewed videos of all time on YouTube. But she didn’t stop there. O

For years, Thailand’s alcohol laws have felt like a confusing mix of outdated moralism and arbitrary enforcement. The infamous Section 32 of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act made it technically illegal for anyone – even regular consumers – to post a picture of a beer on social media if it was seen as promoting alcohol. Bars and craft brewers had to dance around frustrating restrictions while big brands found creative ways to keep their presence known. But as of 19 March, Parliament has voted to ease up, allowing alcohol advertising with conditions that are still being ironed out. This is a big deal, and not just for businesses. It’s a step toward a more transparent, informed drinking culture – one where consumers can actually learn about what they’re drinking instead of just seeing the same few dominant brands everywhere. The obvious winners here are craft brewers, small distillers, and bars that have been struggling to compete with corporations that had the resources to sidestep the old rules. Under the previous system, smaller players had to rely almost entirely on word-of-mouth, while big brands could push their non-alcoholic products – think soda water or alcohol-free beers – to keep their branding front and centre. It wasn’t a level playing field. Now, smaller producers have a real shot at telling their stories, connecting with consumers, and building their brands in a way that’s actually legal. Danny Yeung, a well-known F&B consultant, sees this as a long-overdue win:

Bangkok is a city that never sleeps – witness the thrumming traffic, heaving malls, busy street stalls, night markets, endless restaurants and bars. But beyond the chaos and constant movement, the capital also offers quieter, more magical moments, especially at sunset when the heat drops, everyone heaves a collective sigh and slows down a little. Watching the sun dip in Bangkok feels like hitting the pause button for a precious moment. Here then is an insider’s guide to the best spots to catch the golden hour in the Big Mango.   Wat Arun   Photograph: Mercure Bangkok Siam     When you think of Thailand’s iconic landmarks, Wat Arun on the Chao Phraya River likely comes to mind. It is often pictured with the sun perfectly aligned behind its stupa and although known as the Temple of Dawn, sunsets here are just as magical. The porcelain-covered spires glow in the soft evening light, creating postcard-perfect moments. The best way to enjoy it is to join a sunset cruise along the Chao Phraya, or bag a table at one of the riverside restaurants across the water for a front-row seat. Seeing the sun dip behind Wat Arun’s silhouette never gets old. Wang Doem Rd, Bangkok Yai. 02-891-2185. Open daily 8am-6pm   River City Bangkok Rooftop   Photograph: Ticketmelon   For those who appreciate cinema with a view, River City Bangkok, in collaboration with Skyline Film, elevates the film-going experience by transforming its rooftop into an open-air theatre. It offers a front-row seat to