FORMAT BKK
Make-your-own custom cassette tape workshop in a record house in Ari.
About FORMAT BKK
Format BKK is a music and lifestyle space in a white two-storey house down a quiet lane, House 179 on Soi Charoen Phon 1 in the Ari side of Phaya Thai. It grew out of Gadhouse, a Thai turntable brand, and moved here from Ekkamai in 2025. The design uses clean lines and warm wood, with a mid-century retro feel that suits the record crates.
You can dig through curated new Thai and international vinyl plus second-hand pressings from the 1960s to 1990s, and try records with headphones at the Now Spinning listening corner. The building also houses Swee Lee instruments, the vintage shop CUFFS and a bar called Ciao! that hosts live music. Drinks mentioned by visitors include cold brew coffee, matcha and craft soda. Spending is around 251 to 500 baht per person.
It works well for an easy afternoon date: browse records together, pick an album for each other, then sit with a drink while the music plays. The space also runs monthly workshops such as DJ 101, Turntable and Vinyl 101 and Demo to Master sessions with Thai artists, which can make a fun shared activity. Go in the afternoon or early evening, since it closes around 8 to 9pm.
Why it works for a date
- Curated Thai and international vinyl
- Calm hidden-lane setting away from traffic
- Listening corner to try records before buying
- Regular music workshops and community events
Good to be aware of
- More record shop than cocktail bar, drink menu is small
- Closes early in the evening
- Opening hours differ between sources
Don't miss
More date spots in Phaya Thai
Bar on the 1st floor of the Craftsman hotel in Ari.
The Ari lane lined with small cafés and restaurants, good for a slow walk.
Udon shop in Ari.
Coffee café by day and bar in the evening on Phahonyothin Road near Saphan Khwai.
Wine bistro on Phahonyothin Soi 9 in Ari.
Bar on Soi Pradipat.
See all date spots in Phaya Thai
More activities in Bangkok
Aquarium on the basement floors of Siam Paragon.
Theme park on the Rangsit–Ongkharak road.
Theme and water park on the east side of Bangkok.
The 23 km cycling track around Suvarnabhumi Airport, best in the evening.