Time Out recently published their annual survey of coolest neighbourhoods, and this quirkly little Bangkok area, Pridi Banomyong near Phra Khanong BTS came in 12th. Can it really be the 12th coolest? Watch the video, and see what you think, and let us know your thoughts in the comments.
The Time Out article is here www.timeout.com/coolest-neigh..., and the specific section on Pridi Baonomyong is here www.timeout.com/bangkok/thing...
One thing to note is that a lot of the places Time Out lists are quite spread out along the different alleys leading off Sukhumvit 71. The easiest places to visit are those in Pridi Banomyong Soi 1 and 3, which are easy to walk to from the BTS. For other attractions, you may want to think about getting a taxi.
Here's what Time Out has to say about the area -
As the once-favoured districts of Thonglor and Ekkamai have become too packed and expensive, young locals and trendy expats have set off eastwards and landed on the streets off Soi Pridi Banomyong, an area also referred to as Phra Khanong (after the local Skytrain station). They’ve given this once-peaceful, now-buzzing residential quarter of Bangkok the multiracial vibe it never had: now its elegant, decades-old homes and old-school shophouse restaurants are dotted with cool cafés, hip bars, DIY galleries, chic boutiques and open-air markets masterminded by creative types. Swing by for a cup of artisanal coffee at Karo Coffee Roasters, snap photos of the street art around W Market, mingle with like-minded individuals at one of the area’s many excellent new bars, and breathe in the fresh energy - while it’s still here.
EAT Located in a super-low-key ‘food court’ near Soi Pridi 43, Larb Lub Lub (‘Secret Larb’) is well worth the walk up the main road. Join the clued-up locals and Japanese expats savouring north-eastern Thai fare alongside surprisingly fresh sashimi and Japanese bites at this clandestine joint.
DRINK Clouds Across The Moon captures its owner’s nostalgia for the ’80s with its interior and futuristic drinks. Or there’s Cielo Sky Bar at W District, where you can take in the mesmerizing night view of Bangkok.
DO Shop for fun, antique collectables at Masaru Japan Store, then check out contemporary art by breaking Thai and Japanese artists at Goja Art Gallery (which also hosts regular hip hop nights).
STAY Local Time offers a friendly and fuss-free stay in one of its dormitory-style rooms, as well as fun activities like beer tasting, yoga and jam sessions. -Top Koaysomboon, Time Out Bangkok
LOCALS SAY ‘It has a great location, not far from the city centre but quiet enough. My friends live in the area and there are cafés, street food and markets.’