Starbucks' Ziv Chan on How One Bangkok Reserve Honors Thai Coffee Culture
The concept of a “third place” seems vital to humans. As social creatures, we all crave connection, and finding a place away from home or the office (or school) can be helpful when building a community or support system. Cafes – universally beloved for their delicious roasts and pastries – are a fantastic option for that comfortable new hangout.
International coffee franchise, Starbucks, has long been touted as an option for many: students on a study break, young professionals at lunch, or even lovers on a date have found respite at one or two of the many Starbucks branches worldwide. Among the brand’s latest stores in Thailand is the Starbucks Reserve One Bangkok, which places social connection and Thai culture at the center of its design.
“A cup of coffee has the power to connect people, spark conversations, and inspire positive change,” said Ziv Chan, Senior Manager for Design at Starbucks Asia Pacific. “That’s why we’re dedicated to creating a welcoming ‘third place,’ where everyone can find a way to experience and explore this space over a quality cup of coffee.”
But what exactly makes the Starbucks Reserve One Bangkok so special? There are, in fact, a handful of reasons. First and foremost, it has been certified as among a handful of the franchise's “Greener Stores” (and is actually the largest among those in the entire Thailand). This means that the spacious café has successfully met 25 required standards across eight environmental impact areas as assessed by an independent auditor. Among the criteria judged are water conservation, energy efficiency, and waste reduction.
Exclusive menu items are also available at Starbucks Reserve One Bangkok, including five surprising cocktail beverages that harmonize Thai ingredients with Starbucks coffee. “A standout is 'Thai-angle,' which combines Thai Phraya Rum with Starbucks Teavana Chai,” noted Ziv.
“The store also presents 'Graphony' – a fusion of ‘grape’ and ‘symphony,’" shared Ziv. "Designed by the Starbucks Thailand Barista Champion 2024, this signature beverage blends Starbucks Reserve Espresso Shots with Shine Muscat Grape Syrup, lemonade, spice-infused hibiscus tea, and ice.”
In its totality, the store serves as a homage to the country’s rich coffee culture. Because while is known for unique café concepts, rural Thailand is home to some of the richest coffee beans in Asia. “The best Arabica beans thrive at higher altitudes [like in Northern Thailand], where the combination of cold nights and warm days results in denser, more flavorful coffee,” Ziv revealed. “Growing at elevations up to 1,200 meters above sea level, Northern Thai coffee is rich, dark, and aromatic, boasting complex flavors that stand out.”
At Starbucks Reserve One Bangkok, customers are encouraged to try their exclusive Muan Jai Blend, which Ziv described as having a “subtle cocoa-like texture, an earthy mouthfeel with refined acidity, nutty undertone, and a gentle hint of cinnamon.”
“Developed in collaboration with farmers in Northern Thailand, this distinctive blend is also available as packaged whole beans, with five percent of sales being invested back into farming communities,” he added.
The store’s layout and décor further strengthen the brand’s commitment to local farmers. “Upon entering, customers are greeted with our signature Starbucks Reserve bar. Behind the staircase and over two levels, they are met with a special feature wall made of red brick, each of which is uniquely laid by artisans to create texture and movement, drawing inspiration from stepped terrace farms in Northern Thailand and the majestic Doi Inthanon, Thailand's tallest mountain,” Ziv explained.
The multi-story concept also mimics the roots, trunk, and greenery of a coffee tree. “The ground floor, where we craft and serve exceptional coffee, embodies the essence of a coffee tree, and the vibrancy of the hill tribes who cultivate it,” he said. “Reflecting the bean-to-cup journey, the upper level is inspired by forest tree canopies, and here the colors transition to a greener palette, creating a serene oasis from the bustling energy of Bangkok.”
Artwork around Starbucks Reserve One Bangkok showcases the talents of local creatives. One of the most eye-catching pieces is the stunning ceiling installation that is present on both floors. Created by Bangkok-based studio, Ease, the ethereal, living piece was meticulously crafted first by the arrangement of thread and then by a unique sculpting process.
“Once the initial composition is established, the yarn is sculpted into fluid, organic shapes of varying heights and curves, forming undulating layers that cascade from the ceiling,” said Ziv. “This dynamic surface allows light to dance across the installation, casting intricate shadows and highlights that shift with the time of day and the viewer's perspective.”
Thai artist Pavisa Meesrenon also contributed to the ambiance with a triptych of paintings that capture the unique qualities of global coffee capitals. In one painting, viewers can see the Quetzal bird of Central America, in another, an elephant from Africa, and then lastly, a tiger from Asia.
“Each of our stores in Thailand is thoughtfully designed to celebrate local heritage and culture, extending the experience beyond coffee,” said Ziv. “This central, vibrant location nestled in the heart of Bangkok is the perfect setting to welcome locals and travelers from around the world – offering an inviting, familiar space where they can pause, relax, and unwind amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.”
Location: Starbucks Reserve One Bangkok, The Storeys, G Floor, 199 One Bangkok, Witthayu Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
Get the latest curated content with The Beat Asia's newsletters. Sign up now for a weekly dose of the best stories, events, and deals delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss out! Click here to subscribe.
