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Manhattan at the Diplomat Bar in the Conrad

Bangkok, Thailand – About a week ago, in the mood for a decent Manhattan I convinced a friend to stop by the Diplomat Bar at the Conrad.  An invitation that he hesitantly accepted because he thought that his shorts wouldn’t fall within dress code, a notion I scoffed at as I had always been told that those rules typically don’t apply to farangs (foreigners). And I was wrong.  When I emerged from the restroom I found him sitting in the lobby outside the bar quietly looking at a drinks list.  ”We’re going,” I hissed, livid that a place would enforce such a ludicrous rule, especially when the hotel is at 10% occupancy during high season.  

We ended up at Bacchus within walking distance on Ruamrudee, where I remembered a decent spirits list and capable bartenders.  Not on this night. My first try for a Manhattan, up, no cherry, I got a Manhattan on the rocks, no cherry.  And my second try I was handed a warm Manhattan no cherry.  It wasn’t meant to be.

A week later I found myself back at the Dipomat Bar, but this time the entire party was properly attired.  So, I had my Manhattan swiftly made by a woman in all black.  Now it wasn’t made with the best spirits or the perfect proportion, but it was cold and competently made and it hit the spot for this expat.

Diplomat Bar at the Conrad