Exploring Chang Chui: 5 Things To Look Out For In This New Bangkok Hangout
Complaints of bad traffic jams around Sirindhorn Road has been circulating on social media. The cause is no other than this new hangout spot that just opened on the Thonburi side of town. If you have a chance to stop by, you will know why everyone is so excited about this awesome venue.
“Changchui” is a place that is a bit hard to explain with just words, but if we must, let’s just say that it’s a hangout venue with an industrial loft designed theme and a vintage feel. The walls and roofs are galvanized, and the windows give off an antique vibe. Every single shop in Changchui follows this same theme, even the temporary kiosks. In every area, you will find a small, stylish art gallery and shops that will make every art enthusiasts' heart melt.
It’s a place of perfect mixture between art, culture, and shopping and these are the 5 awesome things you should look out for when visiting Changchui:
The View
It would be a huge mistake to come all the way to Chang Chui and not bring a camera with you. Everything in Chang Chui is designed along the same theme, but unique in their own way. All the restaurants are designed so well; they are just perfect backgrounds for any portrait photos. I literally had to stop every 5 steps to take pictures after pictures. For all of you out there who love to pose to a beautiful view, come prepared with your best outfits you have in your closet. If you feel like your dress might be too much for Chang Chui, I’ve seen people in their boots just for this, so no worries!
For all you photographers who like to explore the place alone, you will be thrilled with all the props and settings available for you to play around with in Chang Chui. Every angle is worth a shot, we are sure there will never be a dull moment for you here.
The Eats
Feeling a bit classy for some Fine Dining? You got it. Hankering for some quick bites from a Food Truck? No problem. Changchui is filled with all kinds of restaurants for you to explore. Choose the one that best fits your taste, the way you like it. Don't worry if you're a fan of street food, but would like to sit and relax as well, because there are open seats all around the area for you to munch on your favorite dish.
On the fine dining end, we recommend the restaurant Insects in the Backyard where the twist lies in the name of the place. Yes, every dish on the menu has some insects mixed into it. They do an excellent job adding a sense of exclusivity to the experience of eating insects.
If you are down for some snacks, then we recommend “Pung Yerm Yoi”. You will find crispy toasts doused with butter and all the toppings you can ask for like condensed milk, garlic, and cheese.
The Shops
Have we told you that this place is owned by Mr. Somchai Songwatana, CEO and Art Director of the brand FLYNOW, one of the most recognized names in the fashion industry of Thailand? So no worries on the clothing storefronts at Chang Chui. Other than a FLYNOW store, there is an eyewear store, “Roseman Club”, and many other clothing stores both permanent and temporary.
Not into clothes? You’re in luck. There is a book store called Booksmith, a concept store called Happening, barbers, records shops, and even a shop selling handmade furniture and decors to your liking.
The Arts
If we had to choose one aspect of Changchui that we think draws the crowd, it would be the amount of art being showcased there. From stylish art galleries to modified shipping containers, every corner is filled with a piece of mind of an artist. Take some time to look around, and you will find sculptures throughout the hallway, street art along the walls, and activities in open spaces. If you ask me, it's more of an art museum than a hangout.
The Bars
When the evening time comes around, the atmosphere shifts to a different scene. As nighttime falls, it’s the perfect time for bars like Old Man Café, G.O.D Bar, and Coppia Bar to become filled with the sound of upbeat music and groups of friends coming out to chill together.
We didn’t know which one to step in because it all looked so awesome, we ended up in Old Man Café. It’s the second branch of this brand, and I’ve got to tell you I was not disappointed. It had a really cool vibe to it as well as a great selection of food & drinks and the service was top notch.
Parking Map
Tip: Due to limited parking spaces, traveling by taxi is recommended.