2 Best Bars in Silom and Bang Rak, Bangkok

The New York--born impresario behind the late Q Bar opened this unique establishment in a funky three-story corner building with spiral staircases that feels more Berlin or Paris than Bangkok. There's an open-air rooftop hangout and the second floor is sceney, but downstairs is the place to be to appreciate the French and Vietnamese antiques, the owner's impressive contemporary art collection, and the traditional absinthe spigots. Bartenders know the classics but can improvise to taste. Smalls is the only bar in Bangkok where you can hear straight-ahead jazz and free jazz, rather than hotel lounge jazz or tired standards. Bands play on the ground floor on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

This legendary watering hole hosts international musicians playing easy-on-the-ears jazz. Expensive-looking animal print–upholstered furniture and dark wood create an upscale yet cozy space for listening to music and enjoying Thai-inspired cocktails.