Guide to Phaya Thai, Bangkok: Art, Creative Cuisine, Books, and Drinks

What is there to see and do in Phaya Thai? There's really no one definitive answer for this diverse district in Bangkok. "There's something for everyone" rings true here, whether it's the culture and history you seek, contemporary art, an exciting nightlife, green spaces, or an exciting dining scene fit for every type of eater and foodie.

Just a hop, skip, and jump away from equally hip and exciting districts Bang Sue, Chatuchak, Dusit, Din Daeng, and Ratchathewi, Phaya Thai offers itself up to the whims and tastes of the quintessential local and explorer who's always up for a memorable and meaningful time. Next time you find yourself in the Phaya Thai district, here are four places to check out!

Cheers to Craft Drinks at The Key Room 72

Forget uppity bars and head instead to The Key Room No. 72, a hip and laidback modern bar hidden within the stylish Josh Hotel. This "No Dress Code, Good Vibes Only" establishment offers creative craft drinks inspired by the GOATs of music, from Fur Elise — a drink comprising Bulldog gin, Frangelico, Cinzano dry vermouth, clarified syrup, red grape cordial, and rosemary spray — to Symphony No. 5, a lip-smacking blend of Heaven Hill bourbon, lemon juice, orange liqueur, Kyoho syrup, egg white, and absinthe spray. The speakeasy also offers savoury snacks and fried rice bowls like Jamaican chicken wings and grilled ox tongue to keep you fuelled throughout the night.

When: 6 PM onwards, Monday to Sunday

Where: The Key Room No. 72, Josh Hotel, 19/2 Ari 4 Fang Nua Alley, Phaya Thai

Scour for Your Next Read at Book Circle

Bookworms, rejoice! If you're on the hunt for your next great read, then Book Circle is the place to be. Nestled in a stark yellow three-storey building along Pradiphat Road, this bookshop offers used books in a wide selection of genres for an affordable price, such as textbooks, children's books, art books, young adult titles, and more. The spacious area makes it a conducive spot to browse and read, from the greenery that dots the place and the natural light beaming from the large windows to the modern fixtures and comfy seats arranged all over the shop. You may contact Book Circle at +66 81 325 5730.

When: 8 AM-5 PM, Monday to Friday / 9 AM-5 PM, Saturday

Where: Book Circle, 172, 2 Soi Pradiphat 10, Phaya Thai

View Contemporary Artworks at Numthong Art Space

Numthong Art Space, the brainchild of gallerist and art dealer Numthong Sae Tang, stands as an institution for contemporary art in Bangkok, bringing together art enthusiasts, artists, collectors, and galleries under one roof. The space is known for its contemporary art exhibits curated by Numthong himself, as well as art workshops for the public to learn more about the arts. Numthong is also an advocate of art education, sharing his personal art library in the gallery for visitors to peruse.

When: 11 AM-6 PM, Tuesday to Saturday

Where: Numthong Art Space, 72/3 Ari 5 Fang Nua Alley, Phaya Tha

Taste Creative Cuisine at Maze Dining

Chef May Thongthong's pandemic-born fine dining restaurant, Maze, surprises and delights patrons with its two tasting menus, Northern Thai Creations and Seasonal Creative. The former is a journey through Chef May's own Lanna heritage, whereas the latter spotlights innovative and delicious dishes through Thai and European flavours and methods. Maze also offers a Western set menu, an a la carte menu, lunch sets, and short tasting courses. It's recommended to make your reservations at Maze a day or two ahead. For inquiries, you may call 092-295-1915 or 061-549-9500 or contact @mazedining via LINE.

When: 11:30 AM-2:30 PM and 6 PM-9:30 PM, Tuesday to Sunday

Where: Maze Dining, 114/3 Setsiri Road, Samsen Nai, Phaya Thai