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 - 1:00 AM
Saturday
5:00 PM - 1:00 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.
Suggested 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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Restaurants
5,273 within 3 miles
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573 within 6 miles
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
433 reviews
Excellent
315
Very good
71
Average
26
Poor
9
Terrible
12
TO-psych
Toronto, Canada343 contributions
Jan 2020
We arrived on a Saturday night to visit this jazz institution that we heard so much about! I definitely recommend arriving before 9pm to get a good seat. We had planned to, but transportation took a bit longer than we expected. We arrived around 9:15pm and it was already full inside and there was a wait list with a few groups ahead of us. We were invited to sit outside and have a drink while we waited (from the patio, you can still hear the music).
The staff seemed a bit frazzled with the large number of people waiting and were slow to bring us a drinks menu, and then slow to bring the drinks. They were very polite and pleasant, however. You get some free chips and nuts to nibble on. While the cocktails were delicious, it was sweltering sitting outside. We almost gave up after 45 mins. or so of waiting. There is a dress code and it's hard to keep your composure and keep dressy clothes looking sharp when you feel like you are melting in the heat!
Finally, between sets, some people inside left, freeing up tables for the waiting list. We lucked out and got a prime table in front of the band and enjoyed the rest of our evening listening to their resident band playing familiar jazz standards. The singer had a beautiful voice and charisma. The bar is small and intimate. Cocktails are expensive but they do not charge a cover fee, so it is worth it.
Service inside was also a bit frazzled. There was a private group of high rollers in the adjacent room smoking cigars and drinking presumably very expensive whisky. So the servers were very busy running back and forth to that room fetching them exclusive bottles of liquor, and seemed a bit preoccupied. It was quite a contrast to the attentive service we received the day before in the Author's Lounge for afternoon tea.
Overall, we had an enjoyable evening at this beautiful and historic bar.
The staff seemed a bit frazzled with the large number of people waiting and were slow to bring us a drinks menu, and then slow to bring the drinks. They were very polite and pleasant, however. You get some free chips and nuts to nibble on. While the cocktails were delicious, it was sweltering sitting outside. We almost gave up after 45 mins. or so of waiting. There is a dress code and it's hard to keep your composure and keep dressy clothes looking sharp when you feel like you are melting in the heat!
Finally, between sets, some people inside left, freeing up tables for the waiting list. We lucked out and got a prime table in front of the band and enjoyed the rest of our evening listening to their resident band playing familiar jazz standards. The singer had a beautiful voice and charisma. The bar is small and intimate. Cocktails are expensive but they do not charge a cover fee, so it is worth it.
Service inside was also a bit frazzled. There was a private group of high rollers in the adjacent room smoking cigars and drinking presumably very expensive whisky. So the servers were very busy running back and forth to that room fetching them exclusive bottles of liquor, and seemed a bit preoccupied. It was quite a contrast to the attentive service we received the day before in the Author's Lounge for afternoon tea.
Overall, we had an enjoyable evening at this beautiful and historic bar.
Written January 22, 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 TO-psych,
Thank you for your honest feedback regarding your recent experience with us and we are glad that your evening with us.
We apologize about your waiting time and the service shortfalls at Bamboo Bar, but thank you for your understanding. We are in the current process of resolving this issue to prevent it from happening it again.
Once again, we send you are your family our most sincere apology.
We sincerely hope to see you again at Mandarin Oriental Bangkok.
Wishing you a great rest of your day
Kind regards,
Felix Otto
F&B Manager
Written February 19, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
carloscharmy
Bangkok, Thailand505 contributions
Jul 2020
My girlfriend and I went yesterday (a Saturday) for the first time to this great bar and we absolutely loved it! It is a well-kept little place, a touch above ordinary bars. Last night the bar was abuzz with people even though it was a national holiday, the weather wasn't the best and lest not forget the coronavirus. We arrived around 19:30 and there were a few available tables, later on the bar was packed! The live music starts at 20:00 so I highly recommend you going earlier to have a place since you cannot make reservations. We were there for about 2:30 hours and we could have easily spent the whole night there! We were truly captivated by the music played by the band. For me personally, it was really special since it was the first time I listened to jazz in a club. We had several signature cocktails and all of them were perfectly balanced. We loved all of them! My girlfriend and I will definitely come back soon.
Written July 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.
Ecevit74
573 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
If you've never been to the Mandarin Oriental and you love Jazz then the Bamboo Bar should be on your itinerary.
Mandarin Oriental is way above the rest in quality and service. In the recent past, I have ordered two sets of High Tea in the Authors lounge (both sets were delicious and the choice of tea was exceptional). The management even helped to surprise my wife during the tea service on her birthday. Now that's really special and I still have fond memories of that day.
Since my last visit, I've been back to the Bamboo Bar twice. I love the decor and the cocktails are delicious. The small eats are great! The complimentary lemon grass cashew nuts are moorish. The Bamboo Bar is cozy and intimate and has been beautifully restored. And the live jazz music band is exceptional. In my recent visit my song request was performed beautifully by the young charismatic Joie Parris with lots of charm. I saw her soul bleed on those classics and I hope to see Joie again the next time we visit simply for her new fresh unique take on those swing, Latin and Bossanova Jazz classics and her comradery.
The service at the Bamboo Bar is exceptional. The staff helped my surprise guest to change his shorts to pants (supplied by the staff). This is beyond my expectations and even surprised my guest. The staff did everything to cater for my guests needs to help comply to the dress code. Outstanding!
Sadly, I am only giving four stars because my wife and her 2 friends went to use the bathroom and the staff cleared my wife's table and her unfinished cocktail, which was still a quarter full. I believe they should have asked us before they cleared the table.
That aside the world famous Bamboo Bar is a must of which the service alone would even cheer up a lone visitor (which I have witnessed twice).
Mandarin Oriental is way above the rest in quality and service. In the recent past, I have ordered two sets of High Tea in the Authors lounge (both sets were delicious and the choice of tea was exceptional). The management even helped to surprise my wife during the tea service on her birthday. Now that's really special and I still have fond memories of that day.
Since my last visit, I've been back to the Bamboo Bar twice. I love the decor and the cocktails are delicious. The small eats are great! The complimentary lemon grass cashew nuts are moorish. The Bamboo Bar is cozy and intimate and has been beautifully restored. And the live jazz music band is exceptional. In my recent visit my song request was performed beautifully by the young charismatic Joie Parris with lots of charm. I saw her soul bleed on those classics and I hope to see Joie again the next time we visit simply for her new fresh unique take on those swing, Latin and Bossanova Jazz classics and her comradery.
The service at the Bamboo Bar is exceptional. The staff helped my surprise guest to change his shorts to pants (supplied by the staff). This is beyond my expectations and even surprised my guest. The staff did everything to cater for my guests needs to help comply to the dress code. Outstanding!
Sadly, I am only giving four stars because my wife and her 2 friends went to use the bathroom and the staff cleared my wife's table and her unfinished cocktail, which was still a quarter full. I believe they should have asked us before they cleared the table.
That aside the world famous Bamboo Bar is a must of which the service alone would even cheer up a lone visitor (which I have witnessed twice).
Written January 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.
Dear Ecevit74,
Thank you for taking the time to review your experience on Tripadvisor.
We are honored to hear that you’ve enjoyed our Oriental services and have passed on your comments to our team.
Thank you also for your constrictive feedback regarding the unfinished drinks, and please rest assured that this is was also addressed asthis gives us the opportunity to improve our service for the future.
We are looking forward in seeing you soon at the Bamboo Bar.
With many greetings,
Felix Otto
Food & Beverage Manager
Written February 19, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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.
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.
Antonio
Bangkok, Thailand6 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.
Pong W
3 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.
terbangbelanda
Singapore374 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.
BBluejay
Paris, France58 contributions
Aug 2022 • Couples
What a lovely evening it was to be at this classic and sophisticated Bamboo Bar!
My boyfriend had really wanted to visit here many times when travelling back to Thailand but we did not make it happen until this time.
Cocktails were exquisite and undeniably exceptional.
We had a magnificent evening. The service was wonderful provided by Mew, Best, Typhoon and Piyatida. They are super great and professional.
I really appreciate your kind arrangement for my boyfriend's birthday.
It was memorable indeed.
Merci beaucoup !
My boyfriend had really wanted to visit here many times when travelling back to Thailand but we did not make it happen until this time.
Cocktails were exquisite and undeniably exceptional.
We had a magnificent evening. The service was wonderful provided by Mew, Best, Typhoon and Piyatida. They are super great and professional.
I really appreciate your kind arrangement for my boyfriend's birthday.
It was memorable indeed.
Merci beaucoup !
Written August 25, 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.
F1070OJkrisl
Shanghai, China
Can I get a city and river view inside of the bar?
888travelbird
Canberra, Australia10 contributions
There is no view from the bar. You can go to the restaurant to have a view of river and city.
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
Anthony M
Hong Kong, China1 contribution
Is there a smoking area available for cigars?
Pierantonio Mar... M
Milan, Italy361 contributions
Yes, there is. a small lounge-
room inside the bar
Jannie
Aalborg, Denmark30 contributions
Can I take my son on 18 with me? (And my husband :-))
drneelsaha
Kolkata (Calcutta), India39 contributions
Can I take my 5 yrs old child there with my wife ?Is there any open space to seat?
Luboldi
Milan, Italy692 contributions
Please NO!!!!’
The Bamboo Bar (Bangkok) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about The Bamboo Bar
- The Bamboo Bar is open:
- Sun - Sat 5:00 PM - 1:00 AM
- We recommend booking The Bamboo Bar tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 1 The Bamboo Bar tours on Tripadvisor
- Hotels near The Bamboo Bar:
- (0.02 mi) Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok
- (0.11 mi) Swan Hotel Bangkok
- (0.25 mi) Tower Club At Lebua
- (0.26 mi) The Peninsula Bangkok
- (0.20 mi) Oriental Heritage Residence
- Restaurants near The Bamboo Bar:
- (0.02 mi) The Mandarin Oriental Shop
- (0.02 mi) Lord Jim's
- (0.02 mi) The Verandah
- (0.02 mi) Terrace Rim Naam
- (0.02 mi) Kinu by Takagi
The Bamboo Bar Information
Excellent Reviews | 315 |
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Very Good Reviews | 71 |
The Bamboo Bar Photos | 264 |