There are many exciting things to do and see in Bangkok. Bangkok’s historical sites, myriad religious buildings, bustling markets, world-class museums, and huge modern malls will keep you busy. Sometimes, though, you just need a break. Here are 11 of the best Bangkok coffee shops where you can recharge.
Located in Bangkok’s historical heart of Banglamphu, Old Town Café is close to many major attractions, including the Grand Palace and the Giant Swing. Housed in an old shop house, the bare brick walls and vintage décor help create a rustic vibe. The café serves a selection of hot and cold drinks as well as basic snacks like sandwiches and sweets.
Roots Coffee is one of Sukhumvit‘s trendiest coffee shops. A place where you can get a great cup of speciality coffee, the establishment also supplies its sought-after blends to other cafes around the city. If you fall in love with the flavours, you too can purchase a bag of home-ground coffee. The menu has hot and cold coffees and you can savour delicious biscotti with your drink.
Close to the National Stadium, Gallery Drip Coffee is a combination of a coffee shop and art gallery. They specialise in single-bean drip coffees, with beans sourced from around the world. Their most popular coffee comes from Thai beans, grown by the Akha ethnic group in the hills of Chiang Rai and roasted here at the café. Grab a book, peruse the art, and enjoy the chilled out vibe.
If you want to relax with your coffee somewhere a little unusual, try Pooltime Café. Animal cafés are all the rage, but rather than the normal cats, dogs, and rabbits, you’ll find cute and friendly raccoons here! The interiors have been done out to resemble a public pool, with a tiled counter, electric-blue walls, simple metal furnishings, and a bright red staircase. The meals and drinks come in funky colours, making them very Instagrammable. Hot and cold coffees are on the drinks menu, as well as soft drinks and juices.
Rocket Coffeebar S.12 specialises in artisan coffees, and they regularly have speciality beans sourced from far-flung places like Nicaragua, Ethiopia, and Kenya. There’s also a tempting food menu, with dishes like Swedish meatballs and truffle pasta, if you feel peckish, and vegetarian-friendly options are available too. The small and intimate coffee shop can be found in Silom and it has indoor and outdoor seating.
The acclaimed Simple Coffee, Simple Life was a runner up in the National Thailand Brewers Cup Champion 2016. Especially known for its lattes, you can also enjoy other delicious types of coffees, hot and cold, as well as soft drinks. There’s a basic but delicious selection of home-baked goodies too, including cookies, cakes, and muffins. Coffee lovers who appreciate cute and quirky drinks should definitely try the Unicorno—the cappuccino is topped with pink frothy milk.
The sleek and minimalist décor and furnishings at Hands and Heart Café are in good keeping with its trendy Thonglor location. The laid-back coffee shop has drinks to enjoy here or to-go, with brews made from beans from all around the world. You can also order sandwiches, cakes, and pastries to enjoy with your coffee.
Opened by three coffee-loving friends who wanted to bring the coolness of Melbourne’s café culture to the frenetic heart of Bangkok, Kaizen Coffee is especially known for its nitro-brewed coffees. There are plenty more choices too, and the Babychinos are great for kids. Hungry? The coffee shop also sells an assortment of sandwiches, pastries, and Western favourites. The split-level café has a laid-back seating area upstairs, or you can sit downstairs and watch the baristas skillfully prepare a range of drinks. They have a further outlet at Sky Lane Suvarnabhumi, the cycling track near Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Located in Ekkamai, Theera Healthy Bake Room is a top spot for health-conscious, celiac, vegetarian, and vegan coffee lovers to get their caffeine fix. Drinks can be made with soy and rice milk, with options including mocha, caramel macciato, and the store’s signature coffee. There are smoothies and other drinks too, as well as a wide assortment of meals, snacks, and desserts, most homemade and allergen free. The menu clearly shows all ingredients and potential allergens.
A hip and stylish coffee shop in Bangkok’s Chinatown, As.is offers a tranquil environment to escape the hustle and bustle outside and enjoy a great cup of coffee. Bare bricks and gleaming black metal create an industrial-like appearance, and the baristas know their stuff when it comes to creating the perfect drink. Many of their coffees use Thai-grown beans for a local touch. Try the fruity affogato for a tasty coffee-flavoured dessert. There’s a basic food menu too, with items like eggs Benedict and pancakes.
Run by sisters, Sretsis Parlour is a cute and girly fantasy land, with whimsical décor featuring bright colours and bold designs. Everything you order comes out beautifully presented and is worthy of a few pictures. From coffees topped with pictures of lions, unicorns, and other creatures to delightful and tasty cakes, you’ll want to keep ordering more and more here!