Cool Cafés to Check Out When Visiting Bangkok, Thailand

We trek through Bangkok, the bustling capital of Thailand, and reveal some of its most memorable specialty-coffee shops.

BY MICHAELA TOMCHEK
BARISTA MAGAZINE ONLINE

Photos by Michaela Tomchek

Bangkok: We all know of this vibrant Thai capital. Known for its insanely delicious street food, the city thrives on flavor and has an expansive selection of specialty cafés to choose from. Whether you’re visiting one of Bangkok’s many Wats(Buddhist temples), drifting along the river, sampling chicken satay, or riding a motorbike along the bustling streets, it’s always possible to find coffee within the city.

Locals prefer their coffee sweet and with milk, and because it’s quite expensive to import coffee into their country, they drink mostly locally grown varieties. So put down your forks and step away from the street carts; let’s dive into Bangkok’s specialty-coffee scene!

Sing le Lane

Single Lane, located in Bangkok’s Watthana district.

After passing by a collection of carts selling pad Thai, rolls, and other Thai delicacies in the Watthana district, venture down a quiet road to find Single Lane. Started by two baristas who spent some time in Australia, this shop is truly a Bangkok gem.

The shop’s exterior is warm and welcoming, with kind baristas greeting you as soon as you enter. Roasting is done in-shop, giving you access to single-origin Thai coffee straight from the source. In fact, the shop’s name is a reference to its dedication to single-origin coffee. Standout menu items include Thai cold brew and croissants from Australian bakery Conkey’s.

Sarnies

Sarnies, which started in Singapore, opened its Bangkok storefront in 2018.

A barista works at the bar of a coffee shop in Bangkok, Thailand. The exposed brick walls are decorated with vintage-looking posters, and a wooden staircase in the back of the shop creates a cozy, rustic feel.

The storefront, which used to be a boat repair shop, still features the building’s historic beams and brick walls, creating a cozy, rustic environment.

Situated in a rustic brick building in the Bang Rak district, Sarnies exudes excellence with its elaborate menu of espresso, iced coffee drinks, and specialty beverages. The food menu is also impressive, making this a perfect place for a quick coffee and bite.

The café/restaurant actually started out in Singapore, with the team perfecting their menu before heading to Thailand in 2018. The Bangkok storefront opened up in what used to be a boat repair shop, and the Sarnies team has beautifully preserved the historic beams and brick walls that have been there for over 150 years. The food is locally grown and cooked with Thai and Aussie influences, and coffee is roasted in-house weekly.

Mother Roaster

Lanterns emit a warm, yellow glow over the counter of a coffee shop in Bangkok, Thailand. The counter and walls are made of wood, creating a cozy feel. A barista is busy working at the bar.

Enjoy the cozy ambience at Mother Roaster, located in Bangkok’s Talat Noi neighborhood.

Bright, colorful art welcomes you as you wander down the streets of Talat Noi district, where Mother Roaster is located. Getting to the café is a journey in and of itself, as the shop is located behind a mechanic’s workshop and past a wooden staircase. Once you finally make it to the coffeehouse, you’ll be greeted by a cozy patio filled with plants and snoozing cats.

The business was started by a woman locals know as Auntie Pim, now 70 years old, and it is currently run by her son. Looking around the café, you may begin to wonder where the espresso machine is, only to realize they actually brew their espresso with hand machines. This is one of Mother Roaster’s many locations, but definitely worth a visit for a unique coffee experience.

Ink & Lion

Ink & Lion first opened its doors in December of 2013.

Inspired by the specialty-coffee scene in San Francisco, Ink & Lion co-founders Adithep Pinijpinyo and Nongphan Tangtaweekul sought to create their own establishment in Bangkok, marked by their shared love of both coffee and art.

Located in the neighbourhood of Ekkamai, you’ll find Ink & Lion: a beautifully decorated, plant-filled café serving excellent coffee and treats. The shop opened its doors in December of 2013 and was started by couple Adithep Pinijpinyo (Kiak) and Nongphan Tangtaweekul (Pui), both artists, who met in the United States. The two share how the coffee shops in San Francisco inspired them to return to Bangkok in order to open their own café filled with art. The shop’s name was inspired by their trade as artists (ink) and the lion found on La Marzocco machines.

“The specialty-coffee scene in Bangkok is booming,” says co-owner Adithep. “There are many new coffee shops opening up all the time, making it easy to find a great cup of coffee. Each shop has a unique selection of beans, brewing methods, and skilled baristas, so you’re sure to find something you’ll love.”

With its white brick walls, antique furniture, and local art adorning its walls, Ink & Lion is truly a magical place. The shop brews coffee from local roasters such as Pacamara, Ceresia, Roots, Brave, and Phil Coffee Co., amongst many others. Sit on the terrace, people-watch, and feel the Bangkok breeze as you enjoy your brew. Also, be sure to check out the art prints on your way out. This coffee shop is truly a must-visit in Bangkok!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michaela Tomchek finds coffee an important part of life and the world. She is an appreciator of the crop, the producer, and the many cafés throughout the world serving beautiful beverages. Currently, she writes about coffee, hoping to spread her joy across the globe.