Despite the leviathan coffee culture in Thailand, it’s quite rare to find a café in Bangkok that’s made for what it’s truly intended to be: an avenue to appreciate good coffee in a cozy set-up. That’s why when we tried CRAFT at the soon-to-be-opened Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, we were pleasantly surprised how they perfectly encapsulated the true café spirit.

An Unbrazen Interior

CRAFT is located in the lobby of Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, a contemporary paradise nestled in the green spaces of Lumpini. Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by the warm hospitality of their staff and be seated in a spacious lounge that is heavy in earth and brass tones; dark yet soothing to the eyes—all of which are accompanied by the natural light coming from its large, glass windows.

The café itself is enclosed in a square perimeter with two faces: a café proudly showcasing its immaculate repertoire in front and a bar on the back for those looking for a chill nightcap in luxurious clandestine. You can choose to sit at the bar tables around it or you can settle comfortably in their couches indoor or outdoor.

Its patio is equally beautiful in a natural way; eclipsed by lush greens looming over a still pond. It’s an ideal place to bask in the dazzling daylight and cool city breeze as you appreciate your time with your loved ones. Pets are even allowed in this area to let your furry friends delight in the CRAFT experience, too.

Laidback Ambiance in a High-End Setting

Despite the interior, it doesn’t come off as pretentious with its elegant décor. On the contrary, the warmth of the hotel personnel, the curated music, and strategic choices of furniture give it a casual atmosphere where people can simply enjoy themselves in good conversations complemented by good food and drinks.

Whatever you feel like doing, CRAFT can be your go-to café and social hub. Catching up with friends, conducting a business meeting, savoring your “me” time, having a Sunday brunch with your family, cooling down with your dog after a jog around the park—the list goes on. They all fit the vibe perfectly; catering to all sorts of lifestyle from the first cup of joe in the morning until the very last cocktail in the evening.

Amazing Food and Drink Menu Selection

CRAFT takes pride in its wide varieties of single origins and blends; having strong, bold, and intricate flavor notes for all palates. However, the real secret lies within their passion for concocting unique brews using all sorts of methods with the latest technology—unleashing the best flavor of each bean they brew.

For coffee lovers, an exciting order would be the Turkish Coffee (THB 170). This exotic Middle Eastern staple is recreated flawlessly using quartz sand; resulting in a strong and rich drink that you won’t easily find elsewhere in Bangkok. You can opt to add a hint of Cardamom to add a bit of spice for free.

Their Drip/Syphon coffee is also a great option to fully enjoy their specialty beans. Let the staff explain their profiles and revel in its concentrated flavors to its finest depending on your preference. We picked the Kad Kakao Single Origin – Drip (THB 210).

Other drinks are also available such as classic coffee drinks, teas, fresh juices, sodas, CRAFT signature coffee-based cocktails, wines, and more. You can pair them with their pastries for the day, as well.

Famished? The food at CRAFT are just as good as their drink selections. From light appetizers to full meals, you’ll find choices that will make your stay even better.

Our recommendations: the Cold Meze with Warm Flat Bread (THB 320) and the Marinated & Grilled Tenderloin Flatbread (THB 220).

Both are carefully made with flavors bursting in every bite. The Cold Meze came with hummus, muhammara, and feta cheese with marinated kalamata olives. The dips were outstanding and were a match made in heaven with the warm flatbread.

The tenderloin was very tender and was enjoyable until the last slice. The shaved parmesan, sweet caramelized onions, cherry tomatoes, and arugula made all the difference in adding accents to its savory goodness. For THB 220, this is definitely worth your bucks.

Aaron Feder, Beverage and Bars Manager of Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok and the mastermind behind all the drinks in the hotel, summarized the whole CRAFT experience superbly.

“CRAFT doesn’t try to redefine the coffee experience, but rather CRAFT pushes to simply enjoy the coffee experience in almost any and every form that fits your needs,” Aaron said. “Whether it’s a comfortable and open space to enjoy a super dark roast mocha latte made with a rich ganache whilst strolling with your furry companion, or just a beautiful space for you to pose for Instagram with your family-recipe Irish Coffee—of which you have no intentions of drinking.”

So, sit back, slow down, and enjoy your time at CRAFT. On whatever occasion you’re having, there’s a drink for you waiting in repose and serenity plus a relaxing vibe to boot.

CRAFT is located at 78 Soi Ton Son, Lumphini, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok 10330; open from 7 AM to 12 MD daily. For table reservations, feel free to message us directly!

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