Trendy Set Takes a Shine to Barley's Happening Rooftop Zone

Silom Barley Bistro & Bar

Located just a short, 10-minute walk from the subway and skytrain stations in Silom, Barley Bistro & Bar is a chic restaurant and bar, featuring a tasteful black and white color scheme and a laid-back ambiance. Set within a three-story building, it's currently one of the hottest meeting places among the capital's youthful, trendy set.

We were fortunate that during our recent visit, the night sky was clear and filled with stars, even though it's currently the rainy season. Earlier in the day, half of the ample rooftop area was being used by a friend of ours, who was throwing a farewell bash.


Tantalizing Treats
Incredibly, a group of about 20 of us almost had the rooftop area to ourselves. The food at Barley Bistro & Bar was just spot on, featuring a form of Isan (northeastern-style) fusion that included Grilled Sirloin Steak with a Thai hot and spicy dip and a carrot-based Somtam ('spicy Thai salad').

Our crowd all opted to drink Hoegarden beer, while the chilled, soothing musical sounds were provided by a resident 'live' band that tends to play pop and jazzy tunes (every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday night).

Chit Chat
Before we knew it, the small talk was underway and someone even suggested that pétanque ought to be elevated to an Olympic sport. And I wonder how many times you can be asked how things are with your girlfriend/boyfriend, your kids, your condo conversion, or your work before you die of boredom? Then again, for me, small talk doesn't necessarily have to be dull and mundane, but can also be proactive in a way.

In my opinion, it's more amusing and perhaps wiser to use a party as a kind of opportunity to express your personal desires, be it a fresh martini, a new lover, a adventurous new hobby, or a new indulgence, for instance. It's really a case of taking the initiative and trying to avoid the kind of dull and rather predictable subjects I referred to earlier.


An Interesting Mix
Anyone who drinks alcoholic beverages will be aware that you shouldn't really mix your drinks during a session on the booze. Nevertheless, before leaving the bar, I was tempted to try a Strawberry Mojito after receiving a recommendation. This turned out to be a pleasantly strong drink, while featuring a pleasantly sweet hint of strawberry.

At the end of the day, Barley Bistro & Bar provides an interesting mix for diners and night owls. While it's certainly a trendy place to go, you can also find a laid-back ambiance should you prefer that kind of environment, while a rooftop bar in itself is a fairly rare commodity in the Silom area, only adding to its allure.

Barley Bistro & Bar opens daily from 11 am to 1 am.

For further information, or to make a reservation, call Tel: +66 (0)87 033 3919, or visit http://barleybistro.blogspot.com/.

Transport Connections:
Barley Bistro & Bar is situated on Silom Road, between Silom Soi 5 and Soi 7.

By:TAN Network