Dear Mr. KIA, In a non-creepy sort of way, I really enjoy people watching. Mostly for inspiration with my writing or for street fashion styles. Where are the best places in Bangkok where I can sit down, grab a cup of tea that isn’t entirely overpriced, and gaze out on the passing people? Would it be impossible to ask for free wifi as well? —The Observer
Dear TO, There are a million cafés in this town. Did you not pick up the Dessert and Café Guide that came out in our Feb 19 issue? But since I love to people watch—in a totally creepy way, of course—I’m going to help you out. By the way, if you spot me at these fine venues, please don’t come and say hi. Just because I like people watching doesn’t mean I like people.
Siam has always been considered a top spot to ogle fashionable youngsters. At Cup B (2/F, Lido, Siam Square Soi 3, 02-258-4700. Opening daily 11am-9pm. BTS Siam), you’ll be rubbing shoulders with students waiting for their next tutoring class to begin. The menu consists of everything from quick bites to full meals. Try the cheesecake to go with your cup of tea. Then proceed with what you’re so good at, staring at people! Free wifi.
If you want big and bustling, then head to the flagship store of True Coffee, still in Siam (Digital Gateway, Siam Square, 02-658-4420. Open Mon-Fri 7am-9pm, Sat-Sun 8am-9pm. www.truecoffee.com), at the IT mall, Digital Gateway. Plonk yourself down into a retro chair and enjoy the parade of geeks and hipsters. Prices are fair, staff are friendly, and there’s plenty to snack on. Wifi available.
Across the street, Phu Fah (2/F, Siam Discovery, Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-0208. Open daily 10am-9pm) is usually dominated by oldie crowds who come to shop for Royal Project products. Who cares—as long as we can still get reasonably-priced glasses of fresh coffee from Naan Province, together with tasty traditional Thai desserts. No free wifi. Coffee shop closes at 8pm.
Let’s leave Siam and venture into the business district for some of the best coffee and suits in town. Coffee Beans by Dao (393 TMB Bank, Silom Soi 7, Silom Rd., 02-238-1141. Open Mon-Fri 9am-7pm. www.coffeebeans.co.th) is warm and welcoming and lets you observe the maddest lunch hour rush. Too bad there’s no wifi. But the wide-ranging menu, with real dishes like salads, pasta and curries, means you can really spend all day here.
