Cover Character Whisky & Cigar Bar
Character Whisky & Cigar Bar
1 / 1
A list of three top-rated cigar bars where aficionados can eschew Bangkok’s smoking regulations
In the very heart of the city on Sukhumvit Road, cigar bars with rich character and atmosphere await discerning patrons. Below is a list of three of the best, of which each is ideal for relaxing, sipping whisky or gin, and smoking your favourite brand of stogie. Read on to see why Bangkok is home to more cigar bars than Singapore, for example, and several other international hubs in Southeast Asia.
Character Whisky & Cigar Bar
Located adjacent to Emporium shopping center, on the 32nd floor of the Skyy View Hotel in Soi 24, this cigar bar boasts one of the most stunning views in the country. Looking through the large glass window, you can see the Queen Sirikit National National Convention Centre and Benjakiti Park. The venue offers both air-conditioned and open-air seating options, and the décor is luxurious and has a Latin-inspired feel. The large, genuine leather sofas provide an instantly comfortable and relaxed feeling. Meanwhile, atmospheric lights and music allow for hours of enjoyment. The whisky wall displays an array of nearly a hundred top-selected whiskies, including rare single malts. Besides whisky, Character also serves rum, cognac, and wine. The highlight is the collection of over a hundred types of cigars from Nicaragua, Dominican Republic, Cuba, Honduras, Ecuador, USA, and Mexico, all kept in a humidor room that controls temperature and humidity around the clock. There are 24 lockers for members to store their private cigar collections.
Address: Skyview Hotel 12 Sukhumvit 24 Alley, Khlong Tan, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110
Cigarista
Cosy and warm are the first words that come to mind. This lounge features genuine leather sofas that, when combined with the lighting and background music, create a palpably comfortable atmosphere. Popular drinks here are coffee and whisky, and the combination of the two lingering in the air creates a pleasant aroma. Located at the bottom floor of the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit Hotel, a few meters from the Asok BTS Station, it attracts many foreigners. The main products here are premium handmade cigars from Nicaragua, Dominican Republic, Cuba, Honduras, Ecuador, USA, and Mexico, available in various sizes, arranged and stored in a humidor to maintain quality. The drinks offered include a variety of coffee, wines, and rum at reasonable prices. The owner has over 30 years of experience.
Address: Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, 250 Sukhumvit Road, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110
Whisgars 23
A unique experience combining live blues music and cigar smoking in a trademark setting. Focusing on whisky and cigars, Whisgars offers a variety of drinks and cocktails made by experienced bartenders. Additionally, there is a menu for casual dining. The majority of customers are foreigners due to the bar's manager and owner being Western. The establishment is located in Soi 23, halfway down the street. Cigar options are plentiful, covering almost all sizes, from Nicaragua, Cuba, and Dominican Republic, including the popular brands Quesada, Cuaba, and the rare, limited production of Dominicans.
Address: 16 Soi Sukhumvit 23, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110
This story was originally written in Thai by Nonthiwat Prabhananda and published on 9 November 2023.
Read more:
Why Is Shochu Suddenly Everywhere?
Margarita magic: 5 non-traditional Margarita recipes to try from top bartenders in Asia
