Thong Lo, in recent years, has seen transformation plus! This former commercial district has morphed into one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in Bangkok. In fact, Time Out magazine included Thong Lo in their 2022 Top 50 World's Coolest Neighbourhoods.
Thong Lo (Thonglor, Thong Lor), branching off Sukhumvit Road at BTS Thong Lo, centres around Thonglor Road or Soi 55. With its Metro (Blue Line) interchange, BTS Asok is just two stops from BTS Thong Lo.
This trendy area is free of mass tourism; however, given the quality of dining, nightlife, entertainment, and shopping, that may change. It is exceptionally popular with more affluent young Thais and expats, especially Japanese.
Great Eating and Cool Cafe Culture
Thong Lo boasts some of Bangkok's best eateries with several Michelin-rated restaurants. Alongside world-class eateries are authentic Thai vendors with fantastic street food.
Several fine dining establishments featuring fine Thai cuisine, like Bo.lan, R-Haan, and Supanniga Eating Room, are all in the vicinity.
The Missing Burro specializes in excellent Mexican food; Japanese options include ramen stalls, fantastic sushi and sashimi eateries, and beautiful restaurants. An absolute crowd-pleaser is Teppen Entertainment Yakiniku Dining, Thonglor. Excellent Italian, French, vegan, British Pub style, western, and Asian fusion, it's all here.
The Commons is a modern shopping mall featuring a vast range of food offerings, artisanal products, and creative spaces. It even offers cooking workshops.
An incredible coffee scene is happening here, too, as many mid and upper-class Thais have acquired a love of coffee and tea. Hip cafes are charmingly decorated, just perfect for social media feeds.
Nightlife
This is a burgeoning scene, with several night spots in Thong Lo Soi 10 and throughout. Izakaya Japanese bars serving drinks and snacks are popular. Burrow into Rabbit Hole to indulge in mouth-watering hand-crafted cocktails. The 008 is a cool cocktail bar, and you must check out Octave with its vibrant rooftop lounge and bar. Bluebird Jazz is a small cosy spot for jazz lovers. Studiolam hosts live music in a hipster venue, tho get there early to grab your spot.
These are just a few. There are so many to explore, but keep in mind, along with the cool vibe and trendsetting style are some higher prices.
Shopping
Thong Lo Road is just over two kilometres but has loads of boutiques and shopping malls featuring speciality stores, health and beauty, eateries, and more.
Closest to Sukhumvit Road is Fifty-Fifth, with a 24-hour grocery store. Upscale Eight Thonglo has 40 plus shops and fantastic restaurants. And J Avenue is a chic, airy retail space with outdoor areas and a Villa Market stocking many foreign favourites.
The mega malls, like Siam Paragon and Central World Pathum Wan, are a few stops on the BTS. The EM Quartier, Emporium and Terminal 21 are even closer. If you need an IKEA hit, Mega Bangna is also near the BTS Sukhumvit line.
Interesting Stuff To Do
Benchasiri Park, a small attractive park, is near BTS Phrom Phong. The redeveloped Benchakitti Park adjoining Lumphini Park is a beautiful space with cycling, running, walking, picnicking, and the new green lungs of Bangkok.
The Racquet Club, an international standard multi-sports facility, is a playground for all ages. Hone your rock-climbing skills, swing your racquet playing, tennis, badminton, or squash; do laps in a 25m swimming pool. Kick out at Thai boxing, stretch at Divine Yoga, join exercise classes, and work out in the 600 sqm gym. Relax in the jacuzzi, take a massage, and shoot some snooker. Their motto, 'One Stop Healthy Living,' speaks volumes for this impressive recreation facility.
Speaking of massage, many excellent salons are located throughout the area. There is also the option to indulge in an onsen at Let's Relax or Kashikiri Soda Onsen and Spa.
PaintBar offers painting classes in an inspiring space with floor-to-ceiling windows. Instructors are on hand, too, as are delightful refreshments and snacks.
Music lovers delight in 8 Musique at Eight Thonglor, which offers new releases and classic CD and vinyl albums. The owner, Mr Pong, shares his experience and knowledge, helping you find something you didn't know you needed.
Dasa Book Cafe claims to be the best second-hand bookshop in Bangkok, with over 18,000 books in English and various European languages in fiction and non-fiction categories.
Where to Live?
You are spoilt for choices, from small studios to luxury super-sized condos with extensive onsite facilities.
The Strand Thonglor, an ultra-luxury condominium on Thong Lo Road, is just a 1-minute walk to the BTS. This recently completed development, with 30 floors, offers stunning views of the Bangkok skyline. Fully fitted private residences are elegantly designed with select materials and carefully crafted finishes. Resident facilities include two restaurants, a furniture store, a children's play area, a swimming pool, a clubhouse, a putting green, fitness and meditation facilities, a sauna, and a fantastic rooftop terrace. Architect 49 with Khun Pirakorn Tongbaiyai designed La Citta Delre Thonglor 16, with "Passive Energy Saving Architectural Design." Comprising two eight-story buildings, La Attico is perfect for larger families, and La Delre supports both smaller families and couples.
Located in Thonglor Soi 16, the development is close to outstanding restaurants, bars, and cafes. The Commons and J Avenue Shopping Mall are just five minutes walk. Condo facilities include a swimming pool, gym, garden/BBQ, playground, parking and 24-hour security.Khun By Yoo, inspired by Starck, delivers a sophisticated, contemporary, and striking design. The Skyscape Swimming Pool, with its infinity edge and 180-degree city views, is simply stunning, plus a jacuzzi and kid's pool. The Sky Lawn, the Fun Roof and Screening Yard are loved by young and old, and a fitness centre and the steam room keeps you in shape. One and two-bedroom condos are available and make an excellent investment. The project is close to Thonglor Soi 10, one of the area's upscale dining and entertainment hubs.
Conclusion
If you are considering living in Thailand, or more specifically Bangkok, put Thong Lo at the top of your list. At Lazudi, our real estate agents are ready to assist you whether you want to buy or rent a beautiful condo in this highly sought-after location.