Refined cocktail service and classic European bistro fare at new Bangkok establishment
October 30th, 2014
Recently opened cocktail bar and restaurant Vesper represents a noteworthy addition to the limited coterie of first rate cocktail bars in Bangkok. Offering a polished cocktail program together with casual bistro dining, Vesper seeks to replicate for a discerning Bangkok clientele the finely honed refinement that distinguishes the preeminent cocktail bars of London and Europe. Located in the heart of the Silom business district, Vesper exudes a cosy, sociable atmosphere ideal for the appreciation of the well-crafted cocktails, and the traditional bistro dishes of primarily Italian and Spanish origins. Founded by local husband and wife team Chotipong Leenutaphong and Debby Tang, Vesper embodies their penchant for the finer aspects of European dining and sophisticated cocktails. Already experienced in the Bangkok dining scene with part-ownership of the popular Little Beast Gastro Bar – they have moved up several notches now with the opening of Vesper.
Ensuring the cocktail offering at Vesper attained the highest international standards, London-based consultancy Fluid Movement were engaged to design the cocktail menu and train the local bar team. As acclaimed proponents of “modernist” bartending, Fluid Movement advocate proficient but not “showy” bartending techniques, with a focus on the “ritual serve” style found in London’s most renowned bars. At Vesper patrons can expect premium quality cocktails, crafted from the finest spirits, with a list of signature and avant garde cocktails inspired by forgotten classics and theatrical serves. A specialty of Vesper are their house-aged cocktails – an impressive rack of small oak barrels adjacent to the bar showcase the blends of classic cocktails, such as Negroni and Manhattan, created by Scottish bar manager Colin Tait.
Heading up the culinary side of Vesper is locally based Italian chef-partner Luca Appino. The thoughtfully crafted menu features selections of honest, authentic Italian and Spanish dishes, such as Bruschetta Jamon Iberico – Spanish Iberico ham, fresh sweet tomatoes and olive oil; and Pulpo Galicia – roasted giant octopus with potatoes, black Taggiasche olives and Spanish paprika. Other standout dishes include the signature “Vesper” Burger – with 36-month Bellota Iberico ham, mozzarella, dried figs, wild rocket and tomato sauce; and Catalan-style Seafood Paella – with saffron rice, tiger prawns, baby calamari, Manila clams, mussels and bell peppers.
Behind a restrained facade of charcoal color surfaces and tinted full height glass, the Vesper decor harmoniously blends modern and retro overtones in a simple open-plan arrangement of white marble-top dining tables and matching dark timber cafe chairs in the main dining section, complemented with a plush leather Chesterfield sofa and armchair. And across the outside frontage – a few tables emulate the European-style sidewalk cafe. Spanning one side of the space, the handsome white marble-topped bar with mirror-backed bottle shelves evokes the style of London’s finest hotel bars.
Vesper opens daily, serving lunch and dinner on weekdays, and dinner only on weekends. With seating for around 80 patrons, dinner reservations are recommended. Vesper have introduced a regular series of special cocktail and cuisine paired dinners, together with special tastings, cocktails of the week, and other themed events. Check out their Facebook Page for the latest updates.
Vesper interior
Vesper – modernist & classic cocktails
Vesper – Italian & Spanish bistro dishes
(Food images courtesy Vesper)
