A Rooftop Bar at InterContinental Bangkok Sukhumvit
Sanctuary Bangkok is a new rooftop bar that opened in March 2025, perched on the 34th floor of the InterContinental Bangkok Sukhumvit. It’s a rather intimate rooftop space compared to many others in the city, and while it doesn’t offer the sweeping panoramic views that some visitors might expect from a rooftop bar, it has its own unique charm.
There’s no direct view of the sunset, as a neighbouring tower mostly blocks it, but we were lucky to catch a beautiful sky full of colours at dusk. The atmosphere was relaxed and easy-going, with a refined touch that fits the hotel it belongs to.
Small Space with a Striking Design
The most striking feature at Sanctuary Bangkok is the large curved wooden roof that arches above the main bar area. It’s not something you often see on rooftops in Bangkok. The design seems inspired by traditional Thai architecture but executed with a modern, minimalist twist. There’s a warm glow from the lighting and wooden details that give it a cosy, almost tropical feeling, which is a contrast to the urban setting around.
Despite the large floor space taken up by two big bar counters, the seating area is quite limited. It’s clear that this isn’t a bar you can just walk into on a weekend evening and expect a table — booking is strongly recommended. The team is polite and welcoming, which adds to the pleasant atmosphere.
Original Cocktails with Thai Twists
The cocktail menu at Sanctuary Bangkok is quite creative and leans heavily on unusual Thai-inspired ingredients. We tried two drinks that really stood out:
Giant Water Bug – Made with Water Bug Gin, Somsa (a Thai citrus fruit), and St Germain. It’s a name that catches attention, and surprisingly, it’s easy to drink and well-balanced.
Luk Chup – A rich mix of White Rum, Spiced Rum, Frangelico, coconut, and mung bean paste. Inspired by the colourful Thai dessert of the same name, this one was both fun and unexpectedly smooth.
These cocktails were created in collaboration with Tei, a mixologist from Tei by O’bond in Taipei, and they reflect a more experimental and high-end approach. Of course, they also have all the usual classic cocktails you’d expect from a luxury rooftop.
Prices are on the high side, as you’d expect from a rooftop attached to a five-star hotel. But the quality of the ingredients and the originality of the menu help justify the cost.
A Place for Pre-Dinner Drinks
The food menu is very small — just five small plates, all priced quite high. So it’s clear that Sanctuary isn’t trying to compete with the city’s restaurants. It’s more of a spot for a refined pre-dinner drink, or perhaps a nightcap if you’ve already eaten. Being located in Asoke, there’s no shortage of great restaurants nearby, including some excellent Thai food spots and several international choices within walking distance.
What’s also interesting is the location — Sanctuary directly faces Tichuca Rooftop Bar.
360 Panoramic View
Sanctuary Bangkok Photos
Sanctuary Bangkok Info
Location: Sukhumvit – Intercontinental Bangkok Sukhumvit
Address: 34th Floor, Intercontinental, Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110
Hours: 5 pm – 1 am
Phone: 0982799365
Floor: 34th floor
BTS: Thong Lo
Website: https://www.sanctuarybangkok.com/
