James Bond: [after tasting the Dry Martini] I think I'll call it a
Vesper Lynd: Because of the bitter aftertaste?
James Bond: No, because once you've tasted it, that's all you want to drink.
Who would have thought James Bond would find his way to the streets of Bangkok - specifically to the 10/15 Soi Convent or Sala Daeng 2 Alley on Silom.
Vesper Bar in Bangkok is a stylish European-inspired cocktail bar that's consistently ranked on the influential Asia's Top 50 Bars list.
When you get to the street, you'll see groups of locals gathering for noodles dining alfresco, or rather street-side - the only clue that you're at the right place is a little soft glow from the signboard reading "Vesper".
Peering in, you'll find an incredibly gorgeous interior - cozy and yet chic.
It's rather charming the contrast outside and in, almost making one feel as though they were tucking away into a secret spot. Very Bond-like.
The name Vesper was given by James Bond's author Ian Fleming to a Martini that the Agent 007 would come up with in the novel Casino Royale. In true cocktail screw-up fashion that Bond has come to be known for (you stir a Martini, not shake it), the Vesper isn't even technically a Martini.
The recipe for a Vesper calls for gin, vodka and Lillet. Martini-lovers would be so quick as to point out that core to a Martini is the use of vermouth.
Nevertheless, it did little to stop the cocktail from gaining cult-like status.
The bar was founded by Chotipong Leenutapong and Debby Tang, who've also dedicated their inspiration and sense of style to Little Beast and Il Fumo dining concepts.
An underrate aspect about bars, the seats here are incredibly comfortable and while the space remains fairly small and intimate, somehow each table of guests feels as if they're in their own private space.
Bar manager Federico Balzarini expertly helms the bar, gliding between tables with the utmost suave to make sure guests are well taken care of.
There's also something to be said about the matching deep turquoise blazers donned by the bar's staff that conveys a sense of refinement. An excellent color theme selected by Vesper.
People of Vesper - who doesn't love a solid themed menu?
Like a scene right of the last supper, we're blessed by a range of selections ranging from heavier and richer to lighter and more delicate. With a couple of friends by my side, we managed to pick a selection across the spectrum.
The absolutely Instagram must-have Silver Aviation is made with Roku Gin, Maraschino, Violet, Almond & Lavender Cordial, Coffee & Walnuts Bitters and Sparkling wine.
Check out their cool coasters, we were exceptionally tempted to say the least.
Banana Pancake Sour - Bulleit Rye Whiskey, Amontillado Sherry, Salted & Roasted Banana, Lemon and Punt e Mes.
We're getting breakfast at pre-dinner drinks. It's really the only way to have breakfast in Bangkok.
The Turmeric Coffee Old Fashioned, a really class mix of Monkey Shoulder Whisky, Turmeric, Cognac, Smoked Vermouth and Mr. Black Coffee Liqueur.
Finally, the Black Sesame Presidente - a crafty creation of Black Sesame Don Julio Blanco, Los Siete Misterios Mezcal, Fino Sherry, Creme de Cacao Blanc and Kaffir Lime Saccharum.
God, I hate how gorgeous this place is!
Does Vesper really live up to the hype of being regularly placed on the Asia's Top 50? It really should be higher up, in our opinion.
The drinks are incredibly classy, makes for great Instagram stories - we should know, we did like 30 in an hour, and best of all, they actually taste great.
Vesper Bar
10/15 Convent Road, Silom, Bangkok
Phone: +66 (0) 2 235 2777
Kanpai!
@111hotpot