Oskar is one of those places I always seem to return to whenever I’m in Bangkok. It’s located on Sukhumvit Soi 11, one of the city’s liveliest streets after dark, and they truly master the balance between bistro and bar.
Oskar opened back in 2013 and has managed to hold on to its position as a popular meeting spot for expats, tourists, and locals alike. The cocktails are good and still reasonably priced by Bangkok standards, and the menu covers everything from classic bistro dishes to pasta, pizza, and oysters. As for the pizzas, they are actually among the better ones in the city.
On weekends, the music gets turned up and a DJ takes over, shifting the atmosphere from relaxed bar to something that feels more like a pre party. It’s an obvious place to start the evening, and sometimes it’s so comfortable that you end up staying until closing. The location is another advantage. If you want to continue elsewhere, Soi 11 has several bars and clubs within easy walking distance.
The best time to stop by is from around 7:00pm and up until midnight. Later in the evening, many people move on, and the tempo in the whole area increases.
The crowd is fairly mixed, though there are often many male expats in the company of Thai women. That said, the vibe at Oskar is noticeably different from the areas closer to Nana. People are generally well dressed and well behaved, and it feels more like an international city bar than anything connected to red light nightlife.
The outdoor terrace is almost always full, especially when the weather is good, but I also like sitting inside near the bar, where you really feel the energy in the room. There is also a decent selection of wine by the glass if you’re not in the mood for cocktails.
If you’re planning to head out afterward, it’s worth putting a little thought into your outfit, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. Bangkok is generally relaxed, but Soi 11 at night is one of those places where most people have made a small effort and dressed up just a bit.
Oskar Bistro, Sukhumvit Rd. Soi 11, Bangkok, Nearest BTS: Nana
