“Good deals to be had in Bangkok” …and four new Red Stars

By Rachel Fellows

Published 26-March-2025

Interview / Bangkok

Rasmus Poll and Fredrik Wohlrabe have reported from Bangkok since 2020. As the ambassadors update our guide to the best wine places in Thailand's capital, we asked them what wine lists are looking like in the city. The answer? More explorative and, bonus, more affordable.

Thank you for the updates! How would you describe the food and wine scene in Bangkok at the moment?

FW: “The food scene in Bangkok is constantly evolving, with new concepts and creative takes on both local and international cuisine. The wine selection has expanded significantly in just a few years, offering more diversity and better accessibility. New wine bars continue to pop up, reflecting a growing appreciation for quality wines and well-curated selections. It’s an exciting time to explore the city’s dining and wine culture!”

RP: “I think we are lucky to live in a city that is always really dynamic with plenty of new restaurants opening. Perhaps it is a bit challenging for some of the fine dining restaurants at the moment due to an oversupply of these, while more approachable restaurants seem to be doing well. Overall, Bangkok has always had an amazing diversity of quality restaurants across price ranges, and I think that this has only gotten stronger in the post-Covid years.”

What's the most popular area of the city for wine spots?

FW: “Most wine spots in Bangkok are concentrated along the more touristic Sukhumvit Road, especially in Thonglor and Phrom Phong. However, I’m seeing a growing scene in Sathorn, Silom, and Charoenkrung – areas with a more local feel that are quickly becoming new hotspots for wine lovers.”

Have you noticed any trends or patterns emerging across the city's wine lists?

FW: “Previously, many venues focused heavily on low-intervention wines, but with the growing selection, I’ve noticed a shift. People are now more open to appreciating classic wines as well, leading to broader and more diverse wine lists across the city.”

RP: “I think that the wine lists have gotten more explorative and perhaps slightly more affordable since the change of tax structure in early 2024. There seems to be a wider range of styles and appellations readily available, while prices have seemed to come down somewhat. Especially for the more expensive wines, I think that there are some good deals to be had in Bangkok, compared to other large Asian cities.”

Is there a prevailing wine style or region that's popular right now?

FW: “Jura and grower Champagnes are definitely on the rise, while Burgundy and Bordeaux remain favourites, especially among collectors and enthusiasts. There’s a growing curiosity for niche regions, but at the same time, a renewed appreciation for the classics.”

RP: “Low-intervention wines are still very popular and with a wide distribution across types of restaurants and bars. Champagne seems to keep growing in popularity, and of course European wines overall have become much more approachable since their import taxes were removed last year.”

Why did you choose these four new Red Star venues?

FW: “These four new Red Star venues stand out because they are driven by passionate people, offer a great wine selection, and have an inviting ambiance. If I were visiting Bangkok on vacation and using Star Wine List, I’d be more than happy to explore these spots.”

RP: “This new selection showcases the diversity and depth of the Bangkok wine scene: a Japanese fine dining restaurant, two cosy wine bars focusing on the classic European appellations, and a fun and lively natural wine bar with creative food. They’re all venues owned and made by passionate and sincere people who are excited about adding to the wine industry in Thailand.”

How can a restaurant or wine bar impress you?

FW: “A great restaurant or wine bar starts with ambiance – it has to feel alive and inviting. Passionate, knowledgeable, and relaxed staff make all the difference, creating a welcoming experience without stiffness. The wine list should have a clear vision, whether it’s built on personal taste, a region, or a theme. Thoughtful selections, proper glassware, and good food all add up, but ultimately, it’s about making guests want to stay, explore, and return.”

What's your top tip for visitors coming to Bangkok?

FW: “Take a river boat to visit the royal temple [Grand Palace], then explore the growing wine scenes in Sathorn and Silom. Enjoy a pre-dinner drink at one of the wine bars before heading to one of the fine restaurants on the list. It’s a perfect way to experience both culture and Bangkok’s evolving wine scene.”

RP: “Stay within walking distance to a Skytrain station and use it as much as possible. You will have a lot more vacation that way.”

Explore our updated guide to Bangkok.