When You Need a Drink
August 6th, 2008
Mai Tai at Aqua in the Four Seasons Bangkok
Bangkok, Thailand – I didn’t have much hope for finding a good cocktail in Thailand. A friend who did some beverage consulting in the region said there wasn’t much in the way of a cocktail scene. Most bars, even the fancy ones, have few high quality spirits, drinks are often syrupy sweet, and you probably won’t see your bartender tasting a drink to make sure everything is in balance. Moreover, bartending here seems to be viewed more as a job than as a profession. It’s a pity that in a city where you can find curries with an exciting balance of 20 odd ingredients and fresh-pressed juices on every corner, you most likely won’t find an equally sensational drink.
After a few off experiences at luxury hotel bars, I was pleasantly surprised to find a decent drink at Aqua in the Four Seasons Bangkok. The Mai Tai I ordered came with carafes of lemon juice and simple syrup so it could be adjusted to my liking. It was fresh, not too sweet and served in a lovely courtyard bar. So for now, if I need a cocktail, I can head to 155 Rajadamri Road.
However, there may be some new options available soon. I recently met a partner at a Thai mixology consulting firm who mentioned that they have plans to open a bar. While I’ve been perfectly content focusing on food, I wouldn’t object to ending a long day of eating with a great drink. Plus, wouldn’t it be fantastic to beat Bangkok’s sticky heat with a refreshing cocktail made with some of the region’s local ingredients? Imagine what kaffir limes, mangosteens, thai basil, and galangal could become in the right hands. I am.
Outside the Four Seasons Bangkok
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