What the f*ck? Nah, you filthy-mouthed thing, it stands for Wonderful Thai Friendships (of course), which is the whole foundation of this friendly little joint. Opened as an alternative to the super clubs with loud music and big crowds, WTF focuses on the finer things in life: booze, art, food and people.
This place, the first venture of the husband and wife duo we have to thank for Opposite Mess Hall, holds cult status in Bangkok for its confident and expansive cocktail menu, buzzing atmosphere and upstairs gallery. A beautifully intimate spot, the brightly-coloured walls are covered in vintage Thai movie posters (yours for a reasonable sum) and there are a handful of wooden tables and chairs to gather on.
The cocktail menu is separated into six categories: Old School, Punches, Aqua Hispania, Freshen Up, WTF and Fo’ Shizzle, and take your time choosing as a mark of respect. The Yank in Blighty (Earl Grey-infused bourbon, sweet vermouth and Angostura orange bitters) is our kinda thing, but we could say the same about many of the drinks here. The vaguely Spanish tapas is also excellent, and then head upstairs for your art fix. Everything at WTF is geared towards making this a friendly, communal and laidback kinda place. It may sound simple, but it’s anything but ordinary.
NB. The gallery on the second floor shuts at 8pm, and is well worth a look.