The iconic riverfront bar at Anantara Riverside Bangkok has reopened on 31 October 2019 with a revamped décor and an inventive all-new menu. Named after traditional longtail boats that chug up and down the mighty Chao Praya, Longtail by the River pays homage to the city’s main water artery and its storied history. 

Bangkok’s riverfront heritage is experiencing an unprecedented revival as evidenced by a spate of development projects ranging from hip art centers to mega malls. What is now a time warp of abandoned World War II-era warehouses, labyrinthine alleyways and tumbledown shophouses is being integrated into the sprawling metropolis at a formidable speed.

Longtail guests are well-placed to contemplate the passage of time from the bar’s plush outdoor sofas overlooking the Chao Praya and the futuristic city skyline. At sunset, when the river traffic peaks, the contrast between Bangkok’s entrepot heritage and unbridled modernity is particularly striking. 

This evocative confluence of old and new was masterfully captured by Bangkok-based design firm greymatters tasked with redesigning the venue. At this modern, al fresco space overlooking the river, natural materials such as wood, metal and stone interact in intricate, symmetrical patterns. While the imposing circular bar acts as a centerpiece, quieter-looking Italian-style communal table and a swing daybed for two ensure that guests’ undivided attention remains on the main attraction—the river. 

Mixologists busy at work at the imposing sala at water’s edge will shake up adventurous-sounding sunset cocktails, premium gin and tonics served with pomegranate seeds, lime and lemongrass and signature build-your-own ginny beverages. 

Playful Liquid Mango Sticky Rice cocktail features kai coconut pandan vodka, mango, rice water and coconut cream, while the signature Silent Monk libation is made with durian-infused gin, Maraschino Luxardo, hibiscus tonic water and is served with durian chips. There is also an array of chilled local craft beers, premium champagne and imported and local wines. 

Diving deep into the local culinary tradition, the Longtail’s new menu brings together regional cuisines from across the kingdom: from northern sai oua sausages to Isaan som tum with grilled pork neck to southern green curry with roti. Some other menu highlights include poo nim tod kra-tiam—fried soft-shell crab with garlic and Sriracha sauce, massamun kae—creamy lamb shank curry and pad cha nor mai ta lay—briny sea asparagus with green peppercorn and holy basil.

Arguably the best way to experience Longtail is by arriving by river shuttle departing from BTS Saphan Taksin and offering complimentary rides to Anantara Riverside. The bar is open daily from 1.00 pm to 1.00 am and is ideal for afternoon beers, sunset cocktails, dinner and a nightcap with live music. 

For more information or to make reservation, please contact +66 2 476 0022