JUA Izakaya

Housed in a two-storey shophouse that was once an illegal gambling den in Bangkok's historic Charoenkrung district, JUA reinvents the Japanese izakaya with a sleek Thai-Japanese design by Sean Dix. Downstairs, a bright terrazzo bar sets the scene for yakitori, sashimi, and inventive small plates built around seasonal ingredients, alongside a serious sake and cocktail list. Upstairs, a private room offers a more intimate setting for groups. With its riverside Old Town location, minimalist design, and playful menu — from durian-butter prawns to uni pasta — JUA is a favourite for after-work drinks, birthday dinners, and private celebrations that want personality beyond the usual hotel bar.