Bangkok, a vibrant city known for its electrifying nightlife, stands out for its ever-evolving cocktail scene. Among luxurious hotel bars and spaces that evoke the clandestine atmosphere of the American Prohibition era, a place emerges that, at first glance, might go unnoticed but holds an unforgettable experience: the Opium Bar. This refuge, discreetly housed in a historic building in the heart of Chinatown, shares the same space with the renowned Potong restaurant (see), creating a perfect symbiosis between gastronomy and mixology.
During the building’s restoration, old beds from the opium dens were discovered, silent witnesses to the intense history of this place. While opiates are a thing of the past (sorry to those interested), the promise of a sanctuary for the mind and senses remains intact.
Situated on the upper floors, the Opium Bar occupies a space that was once, in the early 20th century, a point of trade for traditional Chinese medicines and, apparently, a sanctuary for opium smokers. This rich heritage, steeped in history, is palpable in every corner of the bar, which combines a certain nostalgic charm with timeless elegance. With black lacquered walls and gold details, the ambiance evokes the sophistication of the old opium salons, now transformed into luxurious spaces, where leather sofas replace yesteryear’s narrow, worn-out beds, creating an atmosphere of exclusivity and secrecy.
Under the direction of Arnon “KK” Hoontrakul and with the creative touch of Italian mixologist Matteo Cadeddu, the Opium Bar offers an experience that challenges the usual expectations in Bangkok. Inspired by the concept of “Liquid Surreality,” the Menu is a sensory exploration divided into six categories, where each cocktail invites a journey through flavors, illusions, and experiences. From refreshing aperitifs that open the appetite to more intense and complex creations, the combination of ingredients and techniques clearly reflects Matteo’s European influence.
Among the various offerings, the Love to Hate stands out, a cocktail created by Maew, a talented bar team member. With an unexpected mix of ingredients that he himself dislikes consuming— Tequila Ocho Anejo, Katsuboshi distillate, tomato shrub, cucumber cordial, and tonic water —this cocktail is flavorful, refreshing, and packed with umami!
A North Sea Oil, a modern and complex interpretation that combines Aquavit, Cocchi Americano, and Port Charlotte Whisky, that will not leave traditionalists indifferent.
With the Elegantissimo, we had the opportunity to taste the cocktail that won Matteo the title at the Flor de Cana competition in 2022. This creation combines Flor de Caña 12 years with ingredients sourced around the Opium Bar. It reflects sustainability and a desire to enhance the rum with local flavors. The mix includes coconut and coffee vermouth, banana liqueur, and, to ensure nothing is wasted, the cocktail is served with a cookie made from the unused parts during its preparation. This is an impressive display of creativity and respect for ingredients.
The More Hours With You is another piece from the new menu, a robust combination of Michter’s Us*1 Rye, Cocchi Torino, Pedro Ximénez, Bergamot, and Oolong D.O.M. Benedictine. This cocktail, with its strong personality, demands time for savoring and perhaps a good cigar to accompany it— a combination designed for those who appreciate the deeper pleasures.
And as it couldn’t be missing, the Negroni also gets a new life at the Opium Bar. Matteo, as a good Italian, created a particular version for Negroni Week in Bangkok that has persisted in visitors’ choices. In this case, the Campari is pyrolyzed, cooked at 70º until it acquires amaro nuances, and combined with gin and white vermouth to balance the concentrated Campari. I love trying to read a bartender through their interpretations of Negronis, and here, the proposal perfectly follows the line of the other cocktails we tried.
The Opium Bar also offers an exceptional culinary experience, sharing the building, identity, and kitchen with Potong. Pam and her team create small dishes that not only complement the cocktails but can also make a complete meal.
The Opium Bar is more than just a place to enjoy exceptional cocktails; it’s a historical and sensory journey that easily transports us to another era while offering the best of contemporary mixology. With a new, visually bolder menu than ever and an ambiance that exudes history and sophistication, this hidden gem in Chinatown is a must-visit destination—whether to complement a visit to Potong or simply to let yourself be carried away by the magic of the place.
Prices from 12€
422 Vanich 1 Rd – Samphanthawong – Bangkok