Jazz Clubs

BAMBOO BAR
The Oriental Bangkok, 48 Oriental Ave
02-659-9000
Sun-Thu 11 am-1am | Fri-Sat 11am-1am

For many this Bangkok landmark is a symbol of past glories of the Far East. Situated in the city's most sophisticated hotel, the 50-year-old bar oozes class, sophistication and style. Reminiscent of a tropical f lm noir-setting, it features a jungle theme - bamboo, palm fronds and furry patterns. Small and busy, it's nevertheless romantic and intimate - balanced by the legendary Russian jazz band that's been on the stage here for ages. Monday thru Saturday nights visiting diva Cynthia Saunders will be wowing jazz fans all month with her sultry sounds. Although the stylish watering hole is filled with an upmarket crowd, you'll always find some fascinating individuals among it. Everybody's sipping on faultless cocktails, mixed by skilled old-school bartenders and served by a superb staff. Ideal for a boozy night on your honeymoon. A definite big Bangkok must.

DIPLOMAT BAR
Conrad Bangkok, 87 Witthayu Rd [ BTS Ploenchit ]
02-690-9999
Sun-Thur 10am-11am | Fri-Sat 1am

An architecturally striking hotel bar, mixing a funky, stylish decor with soft teak sofas. The arresting chandelier hanging over the massive round bar is worth coming for. Bronze silks and wood dominate the dark, contemporary, but always relaxed place. A boozy, high-profile crowd fills the Diplomat Bar every night. Very hip among the diplomatic corps (Witthayu is stuffed with embassies), trendy guys in suits and glitzy society ladies - ideal for people-ogling. But the main attraction here is more aural than visual and exceptional jazz acts are de'riguer. All month, Mon. thru Sat. catch American jazz diva Denise Mininfield. Happy hour, is from 4pm to 6 pm (noon-6pm Fridays). Laternite, stroll across the lobby to 87+ where Solidaz from New Zealand keeps the beat on till 2am.

THE LIVING ROOM
Sheraton Grande, 250 Sukhumvit Rd [ BTS Asok, MRT Sukhumvit ]
02-649-8888
daily 10am-12:30am

Perhaps the cosiest of all Bangkok's hotel bars, the leather couches at The Living Room are so snug it'll be hard to get up again once you're seated. It's still a stylish place, and the usually middle-aged patrons live it up on great wines, champagne and strong cocktails in a quiet way. The high-ceilinged foyer offers perfect acoustics for the fabulous jazz band. Be prepared to be well-entertained. World-class talents like Alice Day (performing until January 6th) are booked in continuously, guaranteeing top-notch jazz and always a warm audience rapport.