Quiet evolution: Bangkok luxury levels up

Over the last few years, Bangkok has witnessed a quiet evolution in the nature of its luxury hospitality product. Traditionally, the main tourist hubs such as Silom, Bangkok riverside or Sukhumvit Road, along with its network of bustling back streets and side sois, have played host to a solid selection of three and four-star properties and mid-range brands.

Of course, there has always been a small collection of excellent upscale, luxury hotels in the city but the recent addition of big top names such as Waldorf Astoria Bangkok, Hyatt Regency Bangkok, Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit and now the Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok, among others, have seen the Thai capital elevate its luxury offering to a level where it can begin to challenge the infrastructure of Tokyo, Singapore or Beijing on a more level playing field.

The Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok, which presents itself as a luxury hotel, residences and wellness destination, announced its partial opening at the beginning of the month (ahead of its full launch 1 October), by opening up the spectacular Lobby Lounge, Firefly Bar and Flourish restaurant, giving us a tantalising taste of this quite remarkable property.

Also, open are the boutique fitness, yoga and Pilates studios at Sindhorn Wellness by Resense, which,l when the spa is opened later this year,  will form three floors dedicated to wellness, integrating wellbeing into every guest journey, enhanced by the verdant greenery of this city-centre garden retreat.

Lobby Lounge

With an architectural design that utilises space, greenery, and natural light, is a calm and restful place in which to enjoy an a la carte menu of light cuisine, morning coffee, or afternoon tea. Thai afternoon tea set, available daily from 14 August 2020, includes tea or coffee served with a selection of Thai-style delicacies. The ‘Chevaa’ afternoon tea set, available on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, offers the choice of an ‘Indulgence’ set with European delicacies including classic scones and strawberry preserves while ‘Guilt Free’ is Lobby Lounge’s signature vegan afternoon tea set. All three-afternoon teas are priced at THB 750++ per person and available until 30 September 2020.

Firefly Bar

Handcrafted cocktails, fine wines (as well as handpicked organic wines) and premium spirits are available at Firefly Bar, a composite setting featuring bold European flair and Thai art décor. Tucked away in the corner is the cigar lounge with an impressive whiskey library offering a collection from the best distilleries around the world. Firefly Bar is open every evening from 16:00 onwards, and the hand-shaken ‘Firefly’ and ‘Lady in Red’ signature cocktails are must-tries.

Flourish

Open now, the Thai speciality cuisine Loukjaan by Saneh Jaan at Flourish restaurant, serving contemporary Royal Thai delicacies prepared by chefs using heirloom recipes and locally farmed ingredients. Flourish restaurant is the stylish dining venue, located at lobby level, and accessible from the tropical garden, will be open for lunch and dinner daily.