The Bamboo Bar
The Bamboo Bar
4.5
5:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Monday
5:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Tuesday
5:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Wednesday
5:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Thursday
5:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Friday
5:00 PM - 2:00 AM
Saturday
5:00 PM - 2:00 AM
Sunday
5:00 PM - 1:00 AM
About
The Rebirth of an Icon
The Bamboo Bar is a landmark that personifies the passion, seductive elegance and spirit of both The Oriental Hotel and Bangkok's rich history.
From humble beginnings in 1953 in what is now the hotel's renowned Authors' Wing, The Bamboo Bar grew in size and reputation to become an international legend. In late 2014, the bar closed for an extensive renovation, intended to propel this iconic establishment into the future whilst preserving its unique history and unique character.
Welcome to the new Bamboo Bar - refreshed, remixed and reinvented.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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The area
Address
Neighborhood: Riverside
How to get there
- Saphan Taksin • 8 min walk
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Best nearby
Restaurants
4,996 within 3 miles
Attractions
605 within 6 miles
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
443 reviews
Excellent
323
Very good
72
Average
27
Poor
8
Terrible
13
Paul1966H
London, UK119 contributions
Feb 2024 • Couples
Don't go for the music !
I have been coming to The Mandarin Oriental restaurants and bars for the last 15 to 20 years.
The bamboo bar at Mandarin Oriental Bangkok used to be iconic and a first class jazz bar and one of my favourite places music places in the world to visit.
Not anymore !
The Mandarin Oriental has been slipping significantly over the last 5 or more years in regard to its food, service and especially The Bamboo Bar in my opinion.
Our last few visits have not lived up to expectations and once again tonight i left early and have vowed never to return.
The clientele used to be educated and respectful jazz lovers who enjoyed the music and ambience of this once fine venue.
These days it is filled with rich, uneducated and ignorant morons who feel the need to talk at the top of their voices over the vocalist and band.
If it was not so sad it would be funny because three groups of people in particular tonight were quiet when no live music was playing but then decided to talk at full volume once the vocalist and band started performing, it is actually an oxymoron, why do these idiots go to a music bar to shout over the performances.
It is disrespectful to the vocalist, the band and the other people inside the bar.
There is plenty of seating outside for talking and you would not need to shout !
A group of four was especially annoying, as was the couple behind us who were clearly having a domestic argument during a Frank Sinatra song 🤣
I literally could not take anymore of these spoilt rich fools.
I spoke to the manageress on duty tonight and she was not in the least bit interested, how she is the manageress of The Bamboo Bar i do not know.
I asked her to settle our drinks bill and she asked for my credit card and proceeded to walk off with my credit card towards the entrance area reception desk.
After several minutes of her not returning and getting quite concerned she had disappeared with my credit card i went to find her only to find my card in a credit card machine and being asked by another waitress to enter my pin number whilst the manageress was seating new arrivals.
I had to ask the waitress four times what is the total amount i was being charged for my drinks as no figure was displayed on the credit card machine only the ‘ enter pin ‘ text.
She did not speak english and had to ask another member of staff all very frustrating.
Appalling service and attitude from the so called manageress something you would expect from a back street 2 star venue not The Mandarin Oriental.
I will never return to The Bamboo Bar, i have given the place too many chances so after nearly two decades i am done.
I recommend the place if you are happy to be sat amongst ignorant people shouting over the jazz performance but if you want to relax and listen to some nice jazz music give this place a miss.
I have been coming to The Mandarin Oriental restaurants and bars for the last 15 to 20 years.
The bamboo bar at Mandarin Oriental Bangkok used to be iconic and a first class jazz bar and one of my favourite places music places in the world to visit.
Not anymore !
The Mandarin Oriental has been slipping significantly over the last 5 or more years in regard to its food, service and especially The Bamboo Bar in my opinion.
Our last few visits have not lived up to expectations and once again tonight i left early and have vowed never to return.
The clientele used to be educated and respectful jazz lovers who enjoyed the music and ambience of this once fine venue.
These days it is filled with rich, uneducated and ignorant morons who feel the need to talk at the top of their voices over the vocalist and band.
If it was not so sad it would be funny because three groups of people in particular tonight were quiet when no live music was playing but then decided to talk at full volume once the vocalist and band started performing, it is actually an oxymoron, why do these idiots go to a music bar to shout over the performances.
It is disrespectful to the vocalist, the band and the other people inside the bar.
There is plenty of seating outside for talking and you would not need to shout !
A group of four was especially annoying, as was the couple behind us who were clearly having a domestic argument during a Frank Sinatra song 🤣
I literally could not take anymore of these spoilt rich fools.
I spoke to the manageress on duty tonight and she was not in the least bit interested, how she is the manageress of The Bamboo Bar i do not know.
I asked her to settle our drinks bill and she asked for my credit card and proceeded to walk off with my credit card towards the entrance area reception desk.
After several minutes of her not returning and getting quite concerned she had disappeared with my credit card i went to find her only to find my card in a credit card machine and being asked by another waitress to enter my pin number whilst the manageress was seating new arrivals.
I had to ask the waitress four times what is the total amount i was being charged for my drinks as no figure was displayed on the credit card machine only the ‘ enter pin ‘ text.
She did not speak english and had to ask another member of staff all very frustrating.
Appalling service and attitude from the so called manageress something you would expect from a back street 2 star venue not The Mandarin Oriental.
I will never return to The Bamboo Bar, i have given the place too many chances so after nearly two decades i am done.
I recommend the place if you are happy to be sat amongst ignorant people shouting over the jazz performance but if you want to relax and listen to some nice jazz music give this place a miss.
Written February 17, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kirati T
Bangkok, Thailand3 contributions
Sep 2020 • Friends
Always love Bamboo Bar. After Covid-19, however, the visit was the more sweeter. The old world charm, superb cocktails, and world class jazz are still on point. The prohibition of international traveling also means there are no international jazz singers at the mic as customary. This turns out to be a blessing in disguise. At the helm this time round was Ms. Natasha Patamapongs, a Thai jazz songstress. We had such great time being entertained by Ms. Natasha and the band. Her voice and energy carried the night. We cannot wait to be back at The Bamboo Bar again. A thoroughly enjoyable establishment that harkens us back to the grand old time.
Written September 24, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ttrynn
Bangkok, Thailand2 contributions
Aug 2020
I've been to more than 10 jazz bars in Bangkok and Bamboo is always my favorite! So it was my first choice after the COVID lockdown. The bar had to take a few seat away due to the social distancing, which I just love it! The new Thai singer delivered the best vibe! I've requested a few songs and she could just sang them right away. One of the my favorite moments was when I requested for Let's do it (Let's fall in love) by Cole Porter, it was the best version I heard in my life so far........Thank the band and the signer again, you guys made my night!
Written September 24, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lisa C
7 contributions
Jun 2022 • Couples
Well what can I say , if you like pretentious places then go here ! No seats and European manager insisting you wait outside to form a ‘come in here we’re amazing fake queue’ surviving on hype !
Waited 30 minutes with no drink outside then questioned why we couldn’t go in to which he replied we are full and there’s a 45 minute wait.
I then advised there were stools at the bar and places to sit and finally a Thai ( far more customer friendly manager ) agreed we could indeed sit at the bar !
Why make customers wait in hot humid outdoor seating area when there are clearly places inside !!! Unnecessary and poor management.
Tick it off your Bangkok hit list and head to The Crimson Rooms , far better jazz and customer service , very disappointing Mandarin Oriental !!
Riding on reputation very risky if you want people to visit more than once , won’t be back.
Only for tourists , clearly no concern for repeat business.
Waited 30 minutes with no drink outside then questioned why we couldn’t go in to which he replied we are full and there’s a 45 minute wait.
I then advised there were stools at the bar and places to sit and finally a Thai ( far more customer friendly manager ) agreed we could indeed sit at the bar !
Why make customers wait in hot humid outdoor seating area when there are clearly places inside !!! Unnecessary and poor management.
Tick it off your Bangkok hit list and head to The Crimson Rooms , far better jazz and customer service , very disappointing Mandarin Oriental !!
Riding on reputation very risky if you want people to visit more than once , won’t be back.
Only for tourists , clearly no concern for repeat business.
Written June 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Antonio
Bangkok, Thailand4 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
me and my girlfriend had a dinner at bamboo , we really enjoyed and had a nice time . the Food was delicious with quality especially relax with jazz music and house wine, the price is reasonable . we highly recomend this bar to couple that want spent thier own time
Written February 26, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear 20071992,
Thank you for taking your time to write a review on your experience at the Bamboo Bar.
We are delighted to learn that you had an enjoyable experience during your recent dinner with us at Mandarin Oriental.
All my colleagues and I would love to welcome you back again in the near future.
Best wishes,
Restaurant Manager
Written March 29, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Fete J
14 contributions
Apr 2024 • Friends
This bar is inside the Mandarin Oriental hotel along the river and the hotel is stunning. I went to th Bamboo Bar with some friends for their jazz session. The cocktails were ok overall. At first I ordered the Thaijito, but it was too bitter and sour for my liking. Our waitress immediately offered to get me a different drink which I appreciated and I liked the Sufffering Bastard cocktail much better. We ordered several food items and the wagyu sliders I had were great. My friend said the fried calamari was just ok and the charcuterie board we got to share was good. We thought the band started at 8, but they only came on at 9. We were seated pretty far away from the band since it was four of us and they have all the seats in the front staged in two's for couples. They may want to think about being more flexible in the future. On our way out we wanted to go take a look out at the river so we paid and proceeded out towards the water. I don't know if he was a security guard or restaurant staff person, but as we approached the river a man in a suit asked what we needed in a pretty defensive manner and we said nothing, we wanted to see the water. We walked passed him and enjoyed the views, but didn't feel so comfortable doing so after that confrontation. I don't know if we'd go back there as there are plenty more options for both jazz and riverside experiences that have a much more welcoming environment and friendly staff.
Written April 21, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
missey2016
Bengaluru, India119 contributions
Jun 2023 • Family
The Bamboo Bar was a perfect setting for the eve of my husbands birthday. The Jazz which was just amazing with the vocalist performing to the audience. Soulful voice!! Not to take away from the ambiance and delectable food ( including vegetarian) and most polite and alert service staff!! Definitely a must do for jazz lovers when visiting Bangkok!! Stupendous performance!! Bravo!!
Written June 29, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Pong W
2 contributions
Jul 2020 • Couples
We've been going to Bamboo Bar for more than 15 years.
Recently due to COVID, understand it may be impossible to get a Guest Singer from abroad.
But the Local singer now is nothing short of World-Class!! The house band is perfect as usual.
Loved it!!
Recently due to COVID, understand it may be impossible to get a Guest Singer from abroad.
But the Local singer now is nothing short of World-Class!! The house band is perfect as usual.
Loved it!!
Written July 18, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jordan0000
London, UK53 contributions
Aug 2024 • Couples
It's a great spot for jazz lovers, with great drinks and very kind stuff as well. I was quite impressed by their politeness and understanding. As we were waiting for 30 minutes for a free spot, they kept on updating us and tanking for waiting, and they also offered a small drink. The only negative would be that I did not like the Yuzu espresso Martini, but it might just be my taste; the other drinks were top-notch.
Written August 18, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
terbangbelanda
Singapore366 contributions
Mar 2020
An evening with Jazz in Bangkok? For many decades it will be the bamboo bar with their wonderful band and mesmerising vocalist. Make a booking in advance for a nice seat and sip slowly on their pricy cocktails. Enjoy!
Written February 1, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Roel v,
Thank you for your kind review on TripAdvisor. We are delighted to learn that you had a wonderful experience with us at The Bamboo Bar, Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok and that our renowned Oriental service had impressed you. My colleagues and I assured you that we will continue to enhance our legendary standards as well as service so that your next visit will be another pleasant and enjoyable one. We hope to welcome you back soon.
Best wishes,
Peter Angst
Food & Beverage Manager
Written March 12, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
F1070OJkrisl
Shanghai, China
Can I get a city and river view inside of the bar?
Written October 18, 2018
There is no view from the bar. You can go to the restaurant to have a view of river and city.
Written December 9, 2018
chat2178
Busan, South Korea
I am a jazz player in Korea. I will be traveling to Bangkok on October 8th. I want to play with Bangkok musicians. Play the trumpet
I am a jazz player in Korea. I will be traveling to Bangkok on October 8th. I want to play with Bangkok musicians. Play the trumpet
Written October 3, 2018
Is there a smoking area available for cigars?
Written May 7, 2018
Yes, there is. a small lounge-
room inside the bar
Written May 9, 2018
Can I take my son on 18 with me? (And my husband :-))
Written February 20, 2018
Can I take my 5 yrs old child there with my wife ?Is there any open space to seat?
Written March 6, 2017
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