Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is renowned for its exceptional hospitality. It’s no surprise that Bangkok remains a top destination, welcoming visitors from all over the world. While its cuisine is a major draw, did you know there are “audible” attractions as well?
Leading professionals from MICHELIN Key hotels and MICHELIN Star restaurants share how “music” can enhance memorable guest experiences. (They’ll also reveal the best places to enjoy music in this City of Angels.)
The first word of Cadence by Dan Bark already reflects how fond Head Chef Dan Bark and his wife, Tanjira “Fay” Tragoolvongse, are of “musical phrases.”
“We are meticulous with the curation of our playlists. We wholeheartedly believe music has a great influence on the dining experience. When guests first arrive, they are guided through the Decompression Mirror Room. The mirrors and our exclusive ‘Cadence’ theme help relax them before dining.”
Chef Bark and Tragoolvongse share that the restaurant’s theme was composed by the “No Sound in Space” studio in 2020. Its rhythm and tone convey the stories, moods, and steps of the dining experience at Cadence by Dan Bark. The composition also serves as a door through which guests can glimpse the restaurant’s soul. The couple views music as an important component in enhancing the guest experience.
“Cadence provides an experience through all the senses. Our songs don’t have too many lyrics. The instrumental music is lively and elegant. We choose our playlists to match the atmosphere, the characteristics of our guests, and their energy levels. For example, when the night is crowded and we see people talking with their faces very close to each other, the music volume must not be overwhelming. Guests shouldn’t have to shout to talk to each other. On quieter nights, we play more upbeat and lively music to boost the energy level within the restaurant.”
Favourite spots for music lovers
With such dedication to music curation, the adjacent Caper by Dan Bark is undoubtedly the couple’s favourite music venue. The interior transports guests back to the Prohibition era of the 1920s, exuding elegant yet fun Gatsby vibes that combine the charm and class of yesteryears. The playlists feature legendary artists like Al Green, James Brown, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and The Isley Brothers. On weekends, the tempo becomes more modern and upbeat, perfectly matching the brunch atmosphere.“We also love the atmosphere, cocktails, and playlists at Charmgang. Who would have thought an authentic Thai restaurant would play Western classic tracks? They may seem contrasting but actually complement each other. All-time classics by The Temptations, Nat King Cole, and Frank Sinatra create a relaxing yet playful vibe.
“We also bring friends visiting Bangkok to Crimson Room. It’s a great place to enjoy music after dinner. There’s a live band every night, and THE BAR ENDERS is our favourite. They know how to engage the audience, playing both Thai and international songs that everyone can sing and dance to. It’s the perfect spot to dance, sip delicious cocktails, and enjoy the night with friends or a date.”
As a leading lifestyle hotel, The Standard Bangkok, a One MICHELIN Key establishment, weaves music into every inch. Amar Lalvani, Hyatt’s President & Creative Director, explains “Bangkok is a city filled with music, which is also an integral part of The Standard Bangkok where we strive to create the ultimate experience.
“Every hour, we update the playlist in each outlet. Music playing in the Chinese restaurant Mott 32 is different than the one playing at The Parlor, our lobby bar. Guests at The Standard Grill, the Mexican restaurant Ojo, and Sky Beach will hear different pieces. We believe sound, together with smell, is an important element in creating a great experience. How much do we care about music? Let’s say we have a live session from the up-and-coming Thai band, Rosalyn, and the globally renowned DJ Diplo flew in to play at our opening party.”
Lalvani highlights that The Standard Bangkok curates music to complement the unique character of its spaces and the time of day. At Sky Beach, Thailand's highest rooftop bar, lively tunes set the tone for vibrant parties, while house and dance tracks by the pool create a fun yet laid-back atmosphere. In The Parlor, soothing melodies uplift the mood without overwhelming the relaxed ambience, and in the dining venues, carefully selected jazz enhances the experience without interrupting a conversation.
Favourite spots for music lovers
“Apart from the tunes in The Standard, I like Bamboo Bar and Studio Lam. They inspire the world with Mor Lam (Northeastern fast-paced traditional song). Traditional instruments play modern rhythms there. I also like Alonetogether. It’s a vinyl bar in a 2-storey building. Their vinyl collections are superb, as is their live jazz.”
Chef Gerard Villaret Horcajo, at the helm of the kitchen at Elements, Inspired by Ciel Bleu (One MICHELIN Star, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2025), doubles as the music curator for this Japanese-inspired French restaurant. For him, music is more than ambience; it’s a vital ingredient in creating an unforgettable dining experience.
“We can design an experience by choosing music that complements the dining. Music also fulfils the food, the theme, and the audience. That’s why we play everything from relaxing jazz to powerful pop songs. I believe music has a special power to elevate an ordinary meal into the most memorable one,” he explains.
Chef Horcajo envisions an elegant yet engaging space, with music harmonising with the restaurant’s décor and his culinary concept. He ensures the sound never overwhelms the room, allowing guests to enjoy both the cuisine and their conversations without distraction.
“The music we choose is classic and easy to digest, yet elegant and calm. We want our guests to have lively conversations while appreciating the art on their plates,” he shares.
Favourite spots for music lovers
The Spanish chef recommends Stella at Capella Bangkok (Two MICHELIN Keys, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024), located by the Chao Phraya River. Beyond the stunning peacock at its centre, this bar is famed for its relaxing live jazz and expertly crafted cocktails. (The chef particularly enjoys sipping a Bittersweet while soaking up the music.)“Another favourite spot is Mami Rose at Emsphere. It brings 1980s Miami vibes, with DJs turning up the energy. It’s a great place to drink and dance. I also recommend Crimson Room, an ideal bar for jazz enthusiasts with a sophisticated 1920s ambience,” he adds.
Discover the music that brings Thailand’s capital to life. For travel updates, contact the TAT Call Centre at 1672 or visit the TAT Contact Centre on Facebook. Share your experiences and create unforgettable memories by including #MustDoinThailand and #AmazingThailand in your social posts.
Illustration image: © Crimson Room
