November 2nd, 2011
The Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok first came into existence as the Oriental Hotel in 1876, and is one of the few remaining examples of the grand luxurious hotels of 19th Century Asia. Constructed on the banks of the Chao Phraya River in central Bangkok, it was the first luxury hotel established in what was then known as Siam, catering to the emerging trade between Europe and the Far East. In preceding years the original hotel underwent several expansions, with the Garden Wing being completed in 1958, and subsequently, the River Wing opened in 1972. The Oriental Hotel became recognised globally for its opulent luxury and exceptional service standards, and attracted a discerning clientele of royalty, presidents, famous world travellers, and renowned authors such as James A. Michener, Somerset Maughan, Noel Coward, John le Carre, and Graham Greene. Their influence on the hotel is perpetuated in the original Authors Wing, and Authors Lounge. As a flagship property of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, the hotel was formally renamed as Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok in 2008- and continues to be rated as one of the world’s finest luxury hotels.
The Bamboo Bar was first opened in the 1950’s and became one of the leading nightlife attractions of Bangkok. The Bamboo Bar was re-located within the new River Wing in the 1970’s- with its distinctive decor theme of a “tropical jungle” establishing a reputation as one of Asia’s truly iconic bars. Live jazz music was introduced and The Bamboo Bar is widely regarded as the premier live jazz venue in Bangkok. The Bamboo Bar regularly hosts leading international jazz performers, complimenting the in-house band and singer.
The Bamboo Bar is located in a ground floor space along the open passageway leading from the lobby to the riverfront Verandah and Riverside Terrace restaurants. Some outdoor seating is positioned along the glass window and timber shuttered facade. The interior evokes an alluring engagement with the natural teak timbers, animal print fabric upholstery, and soft golden tones of the wall and ceiling surfaces. Extensive use of bamboo and rattan is utilised in the furnishings. Ceilings feature some sections of bamboo panelling, and graphic murals of bamboo plants embellish the ceilings and walls.
The Bamboo Bar is also famous for its cocktails- serving an extensive selection of signature and classic cocktails. The cocktail menu includes ” Bamboo Bar Originals“- famous examples being the Oriental Sour; The Oriental Hotel; the Thaijito; and the Oriental Mai Tai. The “Oriental Signatures” include- Grapefruit Julep; Rasberry Collins; and Honey Berry Sling. “Authors Favourites” feature Joseph Conrad’s Singapore Gin Sling; and Gimlet- Raymond Chandler. The Drink List also features Classic cocktails, non-alcoholic cocktails, premium Scottish Malt whiskys and other premium spirits. A good selection of wines by the glass are available, plus local and imported beers, soft drinks, juices etc..
The Bamboo Bar has an attractive “Happy Hours” promotion- daily from 5:00pm to 9:00pm- with a “Buy one Get one free ” offer.
“Oriental Hotel” – A combination of Italian sweet martini, rum and Bénédictine are shaken with a touch of almond flavour
“Oriental Mai Tai” – From a classic Mai Tai to The Oriental Mai Tai change to aged rum and original Grand Marnier add fresh pineapple juice with a splash of grenadine
“Oriental Sour” – This Amaretto based sour is the epitome of classic cocktails with the perfect balance of sweet and sour
BAMBOO BAR – at Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok
Address: 48 Oriental Avenue, Charoenkrung Soi 40, Bang Rak,Bangkok. 10500 Thailand
BTS Station: Saphin Taksin- complimentary teak shuttle boat every 20 minutes from pier
Reservations: +66.2.659 9000
Website: http://www.mandarinoriental.com/bangkok/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/MandarinOrientalBangkok
Opening Hours:
Sunday to Thursday 11:00 am ~ 1:00 am ; and Friday & Saturdays 11:00 am ~ 2:00 am
Happy Hours: Daily from 5:00pm ~ 9:00 pm “Buy one Get one Free”
Live jazz : Nightly except Sundays. Monday to Thursday 9:00 pm ~ 12:00 am ; Friday & Saturdays 9:00 pm ~ 1:00 am
Dress Code: Smart casual
