Introduction: Cafe hopping near Shangri-La Bangkok
During my stay in Bangkok in October 2022, I spent time exploring the area around the Shangri-La Bangkok. Since I often stay near Saphan Taksin, I enjoyed discovering local spots within walking distance. Whether you are looking for traditional Thai flavors or a cozy coffee break, the neighborhood offers a variety of experiences.
Sarnies Bangkok: Atmosphere, signature menu, and payment experience
Sarnies Bangkok is a standout, located in a 150-year-old house just a 5-minute walk from the Shangri-La. While the location might be a bit tucked away for those not staying nearby, it is an absolute must-visit if you are a guest at the hotel. The atmosphere is incredibly charming, and it was quite busy even during my visit; I’ve heard it can get crowded enough to require a wait on weekends.
I opted for their signature items: the Coconut Long Black and the ‘F***ing Good Brownie.’ The coffee was unique and delicious, and the brownie truly lived up to its name—it was one of the best I’ve ever had. The total for one coffee and one brownie was 289 THB. I didn’t have enough cash on hand, so I used the Hana Money GLN QR payment system. It was a seamless and quick experience, making the trip feel even more convenient.
Sor Boonprakobpanich: Traditional Thai desserts and purchasing tips
Located within a 10-minute walk from the hotel, Sor Boonprakobpanich is a classic spot for traditional Thai desserts. It is significantly more affordable than the options you might find at IconSiam. However, keep in mind that they sell items in sets rather than individually, which makes it difficult to sample a wide variety of treats. Their mango sticky rice is usually excellent, though I was unlucky during my visit as they didn’t have any ripe mangoes available.
Homu: Japanese-style cafe observations
On my way back to the hotel, I stumbled upon Homu, a small Japanese-style cafe. The interior is beautiful, and the staff were very kind, explaining the menu in English. I ended up ordering a Sakura Dango to-go. While the shop is aesthetically pleasing and might appeal to tea lovers, I found the desserts themselves to be underwhelming in taste and not particularly cheap. I would suggest skipping this one unless you are just there for the decor.
Practical Tips: Using Hana Money GLN for QR payments in Bangkok
Using the Hana Money GLN for QR payments was a highlight of my trip. It worked perfectly at Sarnies Bangkok, and the process was incredibly fast. It is a great way to manage expenses without needing to carry large amounts of cash, though it is always wise to have a backup payment method just in case.
Conclusion: Summary of recommendations based on traveler fit
If you are staying at the Shangri-La, Sarnies Bangkok is a fantastic choice for a high-quality coffee and a treat. For those interested in local culture, Sor Boonprakobpanich is a great, budget-friendly stop for traditional sweets, provided you are happy buying in sets. I would recommend skipping Homu unless you are specifically looking for a photogenic spot rather than a culinary highlight.
