These 5 Southeast Asian Speakeasies are a Jazz Lover’s Dream
Combining the rhythms of jazz with local flavors and flair, these bars and speakeasies are cultural symphonies in their own right
Where can jazz lovers hang out in silence within Southeast Asia?
Southeast Asia’s jazz bar scene is marked by a blend of Western influences with regional touches. Modern iterations pair live bands with cocktails infused with local flavors, while vintage-style speakeasies preserve the intimate ‘20s and ‘30s ambiance while adding cultural layers through interiors, cuisine, and performances.
From rooftop lounges with city views to alleyway speakeasies behind nondescript doors, here are some bars to check out whenever you’re in Southeast Asia:
Maduro
Maduro combines the vibe of a whisky and cigar lounge with the energy of live jazz performances. Nestled within the lower lobby of Sofitel Singapore Sentosa, the bar creates an intimate atmosphere with its plush velvet couches, leather armchairs, and warm lighting.
Fat Cat PH
Located in Makati Cinema Square, Manila, Fat Cat is a vinyl-centered jazz cocktail bar where the ambiance is as important as the music. With a narrow entrance, curated records, and mellow lighting, it’s perfect for a laid-back evening immersed in jazz.
Snuffbox
A hidden gem in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Snuffbox is a speakeasy-style lounge inspired by 1920s New York. Live jazz musicians, Prohibition-era aesthetics, and crafted cocktails make it a dream destination for those who like to vibe and chill in secret.
1920 Lounge & Bar
In Kemang, South Jakarta, 1920 Lounge evokes the glamour of the 1920s. Plush décor, live jazz sessions, and a Gatsby-era vibe make it ideal for anyone looking to combine music, cocktails, and vintage charm in one stylish night out.
The ‘20s come alive again in this lounge located in Kemang, South Jakarta. The Gatsby-era vibe makes 1920 Lounge & Bar ideal for those looking to combine music, cocktails, and vintage charm, all in one night.
The Bamboo Bar
This Bangkok-based bar has long been celebrated for its sophisticated jazz atmosphere, paired with elegant interiors and curated cocktails. Established in 1953, The Bamboo Bar is the place of choice for those seeking a refined evening of music.
