Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok

About Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok

Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok is the city's historic riverside hotel at 48 Oriental Avenue in Bang Rak, on the banks of the Chao Phraya. It opened in 1876, and guests over the years have included Joseph Conrad, Audrey Hepburn, Princess Diana and David Bowie. The colonial-era Authors' Wing, with its white rattan chairs, tall windows and grand staircase, sits at the heart of the hotel.

Non-guests can come for afternoon tea in the Authors' Lounge, which costs about THB 4,600 per couple. You can also hear live jazz at The Bamboo Bar, Bangkok's first jazz venue, open since 1953, or book a meal at Le Normandie, which reopened in September 2025 under two-Michelin-starred chef Anne-Sophie Pic. The China House and Sala Rim Naam are other options. The hotel's own boats carry guests across the river. Prices are high throughout.

This is one of Bangkok's most romantic places for an anniversary or another big occasion. Afternoon tea runs from 12:00 to 18:00 and suits a daytime date, while an evening of river views followed by jazz at The Bamboo Bar suits a night out. Reviewers consistently praise the polished service and the sense of history. Book ahead for the restaurants and the bar.

Why it works for a date

• Polished service that is attentive without being intrusive
• Beautiful river views and 150 years of history
• The Bamboo Bar and the Authors' Lounge afternoon tea
• Hotel boats across the river and to ICONSIAM

Good to be aware of

• Very expensive; some question the value
• Spa, gym and some restaurants are across the river by boat
• Occasional reports of inconsistent food or service

Don't miss

Afternoon tea at the Authors' Lounge About ฿4,600 per coupleThai-inspired savouries, scones and Thai sweets served with TWG teas in the colonial lounge, with live guitar music. Daily 12:00-18:00.