Bangkok’s cocktail culture soared to new heights this October as the Bangkok Bar Show 2025 took center stage, uniting the nation’s top bartenders, visionary mixologists, and passionate enthusiasts for four exhilarating days. From October 10 to 13, this prestigious event turned the Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel into the heart of Thailand’s dynamic bar scene, with festivities extending to venues throughout the city. What started as a gathering of industry insiders has evolved into a must-attend spectacle, drawing crowds from across Asia and beyond. Attendees immersed themselves in masterclasses, tastings, and pop-up events that showcased the latest trends in mixology, from sustainable ingredients to avant-garde techniques. The excitement peaked on October 13 with the Bangkok Bar Show Awards, unveiling Thailand’s 20 Best Bars for 2025 and honoring the trailblazers who are reshaping the art of the perfect pour. This year’s edition not only celebrated established names but also spotlighted emerging talents, reflecting the rapid evolution of Bangkok’s bar landscape.
These awards embody the passion of industry leaders Niks Anuman, the mastermind behind Asia Today, Independence Bar, Teens of Thailand, and G.O.D., alongside Colin Chia of Singapore’s Nutmeg & Clove, Last Word, and Bangkok’s #FindTheLockerRoom and #FindThePhotoBooth. Together, they’ve elevated the Bangkok Bar Show into a vibrant tribute to Thailand’s cocktail world, blending spirits with captivating narratives. Anuman and Chia’s vision goes beyond mere competition; it’s about fostering a community where creativity thrives. This year’s honorees highlighted not only masterful technique but also the creativity and flair that position Thailand as a premier spot for global cocktail aficionados. In a city where street food and nightlife intermingle seamlessly, these bars represent the pinnacle of innovation, turning simple drinks into multisensory experiences that tell stories of culture, history, and personal journeys.
The event’s broader impact can’t be overstated. Bangkok has long been known for its vibrant nightlife, but the cocktail scene has exploded in recent years, influenced by international trends while staying rooted in local flavors like lemongrass, tamarind, and exotic spices. The Bar Show serves as a platform for this fusion, encouraging bartenders to experiment and push boundaries. From eco-friendly practices to inclusive spaces that welcome all, the awards underscore a shift toward more conscious and diverse hospitality. As the night unfolded, the awards ceremony buzzed with anticipation, with winners sharing heartfelt speeches that emphasized collaboration over rivalry. It’s this spirit of camaraderie that makes the Bangkok Bar Show more than an event—it’s a movement propelling Thailand onto the global stage.
The Standout Stars
Dry Wave Cocktail Studio reigned supreme for the second year running, confirming their dominance is here to stay. They dominated the key categories, winning Best Bar in Bangkok, Best Bar in Thailand, and Bar Team of the Year, with head bartender Supawit ‘Palm’ Muttarattana claiming Bartender of the Year. This triumph solidifies Dry Wave as the vanguard of Bangkok’s cocktail revival. Their rise has been spectacular, earning a spot on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025 at No.5 with the Highest New Entry Award. What sets Dry Wave apart is their meticulous approach: every cocktail is a symphony of elements, where precision meets whimsy. Imagine sipping a drink that evolves on your palate, layering flavors from sharp citrus to velvety infusions, all while evoking narratives inspired by Thai folklore or urban life. Muttarattana’s leadership shines through in the team’s cohesion, fostering an environment where innovation is daily practice. Their unwavering excellence across awards sets a benchmark for the industry, inspiring newcomers to aim higher. In just a short time, Dry Wave has transformed from a hidden gem to a beacon, drawing international visitors eager for that signature experience.
Bar Us clinched second place, maintaining its stellar ascent in Bangkok’s fierce bar landscape. The venue has skyrocketed from No.21 to No.4 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025, leaping 17 positions, and surged 26 spots to No.15 on the World’s 50 Best Bars. This surge underscores a dedication to perfection that captivates experts and guests alike. In a city brimming with outstanding spots, Bar Us has forged a unique niche, proving that bold innovation and reliability can transform a rising star into a heavyweight contender. Tucked away in a chic corner of the city, Bar Us emphasizes storytelling through its menu, with each drink paying homage to global influences while incorporating local twists. Their team experiments with rare botanicals and house-made syrups, creating libations that surprise and delight. The bar’s rapid rise speaks to the power of consistency—regular patrons rave about the warm service and ever-evolving offerings. As Bangkok’s scene grows more competitive, Bar Us stands as a testament to how passion and adaptability can lead to enduring success.
G.O.D. (Genius On Drugs) secured third, marking the bold new venture from power trio Gunn Lee, Attapon De-Silva, and Niks Anuman. Debuting on Asia’s 50 Best Bars at No.26, G.O.D. burst onto the scene with flair. Its daring name sparks intrigue, matched by an experience that’s equally audacious. Drawing on the team’s deep expertise, this bar blends creativity and skill into something extraordinary. The concept revolves around playful provocation, with cocktails that challenge conventions—think mind-bending combinations like fermented fruits with unexpected spices. The founders’ collective background in some of Bangkok’s most iconic spots ensures a polished yet rebellious vibe. Their strong showing in their debut year at the awards signals G.O.D. as a future force in Bangkok’s mixology world. Already, it’s becoming a hotspot for those seeking more than a drink; it’s a conversation starter, a place where boundaries are pushed and new ideas ferment.
Opium took fourth, reinforcing its status as a cherished gem in Bangkok’s cocktail haven. It debuted on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025 at No.43 and previously snagged Best Cocktail Bar at the BAD Awards. Opium has cultivated a devoted crowd with its timeless ambiance and masterful concoctions that evoke bygone eras. Stepping inside feels like entering a speakeasy from the 1920s, with dim lighting, plush seating, and drinks that transport you through time. Their menu draws from historical recipes, reimagined with modern Thai elements, creating a bridge between past and present. In a scene where fresh faces dazzle, Opium’s enduring appeal shows that consistent quality and charm ensure lasting acclaim. The bar’s success lies in its ability to evolve subtly, introducing seasonal specials while maintaining core favorites that keep loyalists coming back.
BKK Social Club completed the top five and nabbed Best Hotel Bar honors. Nestled in the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River, it epitomizes luxury hotel bar sophistication. Though it slipped from No.7 in 2024 to No.19 in 2025 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars, it held strong at No.49 on The World’s 50 Best Bars 2025, affirming its global stature. Recently, BKK Social Club hosted Sálon Social: Liquid Legends on October 11, 2025, featuring six world-renowned bars for a spectacular display of international prowess. This event alone highlighted the bar’s role as a connector, bringing global talents to Bangkok’s shores. With river views and an elegant Art Deco-inspired interior, BKK Social Club offers cocktails that are as refined as the setting, blending classic techniques with innovative flair.
Beyond the top five, the awards recognized a diverse array of bars, from innovative newcomers to steadfast institutions, each contributing to Bangkok’s rich tapestry. The event also featured seminars on sustainability and inclusivity, signaling a forward-thinking industry.
The Bangkok Bar Show 2025 reaffirmed that Thailand’s capital is a world-class cocktail powerhouse, where talent, ingenuity, and enthusiasm pour out as abundantly as the finest libations. As the city continues to innovate, these bars invite everyone to raise a glass to the future of mixology.