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The historic Charoenkrung cobblestone street has been given a new look thanks to accelerated restoration efforts during the Covid-19 pandemic. Charoenkrung runs through the most upscale entertainment and luxury neighborhoods of Thailand's capital.
For many years, this street attracted many new residents to Bangkok, but many houses and shops fell into disrepair in the 2000s. After renovations, it was reborn as a boho-style space, featuring bars, cafes, and upscale hotels. Its opulence draws in a large number of tourists and those seeking a new life by capitalizing on its rich history.
This is the oldest neighborhood in Bangkok.
Since 2000, the neighborhood has gradually deteriorated.
During the two waves of the Covid-19 pandemic, this street gradually revived.
Leading the revitalization along the Chao Phraya River – where Mandarin Oriental opened The Oriental Hotel in 1876 – is the Four Seasons Bangkok, which opened in December 2020. Surrounding it are also multi-billion baht apartment projects.
According to SCMP, Charoenkrung was Bangkok's first commercial and residential street. The Siwilai Club witnessed the birth of jazz bars in Thailand.
Many former eateries have been transformed into fashion boutiques, cafes, bakeries, bars, and art event venues. Charoenkrung has also attracted billionaires to invest in real estate, renovating dilapidated houses and crumbling walls into modern structures. However, the old buildings, often surrounded by centuries-old trees, remain popular photo spots for young people.
After renovation, the space features several bars with a boho style.
Standing out on the street is the Hong Sieng Kong café. Despite pandemic restrictions, the 2,000 square meter space was completed within a year and opened in April 2021. A 150-year-old staircase made of Burmese golden teak is a highlight of the location. It attracts many food enthusiasts and lovers of antique interiors.
Additionally, TEP bar, which uses traditional Thai medicine in its drink preparation, is another highlight of Charoenkrung. Next is Tropic City, ranked 17th in this year's list of Asia's 50 best bars. This street boasts many of Bangkok's most popular entertainment venues.
A famous graffiti artwork at Charoenkrung.
Along with the reconstruction of the buildings, street art has also flourished in Charoenkrung. In 2017, artist Vhils was commissioned to depict the friendship between Thailand and Portugal on the walls of the country's embassy. Nearby is a painting of the Chinese God of Wealth by another Thai artist.
The relocation of the Thailand Design and Creativity Centre to Charoenkrung in 2017 solidified its position as an arts venue specializing in exhibiting the works of various artists.
