The best way to travel like a local, is to ask a local. In this series of travel guides, we ask creatives and insiders from our global community to show us their city, their way

Barom "Tay" Bhicharnchitr was born into his family's retail empire, Central Group, and currently manages of one of Thailand's most luxurious retail destinations, Central Embassy.

But Tay has also carved his own path in Bangkok with SIWILAI, which is an embodiment of his love for the arts, music and design. Taking over level five of Central Embassy, SIWILAI comprises Siwilai Store, Siwilai Cafe and the very chic Siwilai City Club. A reflection of Tay's impeccable taste, Siwilai Store carries “avant garde, yet affordable and functional” brands, and a “Thai-Made” section that takes pride of place. 

We asked Tay to share some of his favourite places to hang out in Bangkok, and he did not disappoint—from his favourite street noodles to edgy gin bars, vintage shopping to art galleries that champion Thai artists. 

Siwilai 

This includes Siwilai store, Siwilai Cafe, Siwilai City Club and Siwilai Sound Club. It's a lifestyle platform that we designed and produced, showcasing how we want to contribute to the city: from a curated mix of fashion and lifestyle brands, food and beverage, music and a line-up of cultural programmes.

Aksorn

A Thai restaurant by Chef David Thompson that focuses on recipes from his collection of old cookbooks. I feel that Chef David is one of the pioneers  that is responsible for helping to bring Thai Food to where it is today and put great values to the cuisine. 

Jua

A fun, modern izakaya restaurant filled with good people.

Heng Chun Seng

Here, they serve legendary street-style Thai beef fire pot noodles. It's a must-try!

Eat Me

Open since 1998, Eat Me is one of the most long-lasting and consistent restaurants in Bangkok. It serves progressive, international cuisine by Chef Tim Butler, and it has a great vibe.

Jack's Bar 

Thai Food by the Chao Phraya River is hard to beat!

Nangloeng Shop House

A low key space with high attention to detail. Great for having high quality drinks, paired with snacks and pastries.

Teens of Thailand

Located on Soi Nana, Teens of Thailand is a gin bar at its best. 

Vintage Shopping

Everything Under the Sun is a vintage shop with a great selection, and Woodensubmarine is perhaps the best vintage store in Bangkok. 

Unfound Projects

A great local multi brands store. 

Bangkok City City Gallery

A well-programmed gallery that focuses on local, home-grown talent. 

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