Yao Restaurant | Lukfoto - Bangkok Photographer

Bangkok’s Sky-High Chinese Cocktail Haven at Marriott Surawongse

Sip expertly crafted cocktails and gaze at the glittering Bangkok skyline as the sun paints the horizon in gold and crimson. This distinctive venue sits 32 floors above the city at the Bangkok Marriott Hotel The Surawongse. The premier restaurant Bangkok visitors rave about doubles as a sophisticated cocktail destination with unmatched views. The venue seamlessly combines dining and drinking experiences in one remarkable setting, making Yao Restaurant a standout among Bangkok’s high-altitude offerings.

Yào (as it’s also stylized) combines modern Chinese influence with contemporary design to create a unique space in the city. The venue delivers a 360-degree panoramic view of both the historic Old Town area and the river alongside Bangkok’s high-rise buildings. The Marriott Bangkok experience stands out among the city’s many elevated dining spots.

For visitors seeking an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere, this sky-high venue provides a great setting for creating moments worth remembering. The combination of exceptional drinks, tasty bites, and sophisticated ambiance makes this the top choice for discerning guests. For special evenings, dinner at this height becomes an extraordinary experience.

Unique Ambiance with Chinese Influence

What sets this elevated venue apart is its distinct Chinese aesthetic. The design features traditional craftsmanship with a contemporary twist. As you enter the space, you’ll notice carved oriental screens, modern sculptures, and elegant ceramics that create a cohesive and striking environment.

The multi-level terrace provides various seating options, from intimate corners to social areas, each offering a different perspective of the city below. Comfortable loungers invite you to relax as the day transitions into evening.

Unlike typical elevated venues focused solely on views, this locale integrates authentic cultural elements into every aspect of your visit, extending beyond decor into the food and beverage options.

Pricing and Packages for Your Visit

Visiting this Bangkok venue represents good value compared to many upscale Bangkok options. Cocktails typically range from 300-500 THB, with signature creations at the higher end. The food menu offers small plates starting around 200-300 THB, making it possible to enjoy several tastes without overwhelming your budget.

For a complete experience, consider timing your visit to catch the sunset, arriving between 5:00-6:00 PM depending on the season. This popular time slot often fills quickly, so advance reservations are recommended.

Photography packages can be customized based on your specific needs. From quick portrait sessions to comprehensive shoots utilizing different areas of the venue, options exist to match various requirements and budgets. Contact us to discuss creating a personalized photoshoot plan in this stunning location.

Signature Cocktails and Chinese-Inspired Bites

The drink menu at the Marriott’s 32nd floor celebrates creativity and flavor. Their signature cocktails feature innovative combinations inspired by Chinese traditions. Each drink is prepared with fresh components and served in eye-catching presentations.

Standout cocktails include the vibrant green “Sweet Little Jade” blending Midori, kiwi, lime, vodka and prosecco, and the striking “Shanghai, The City Upon the Sea” with its distinctive purple hue derived from butterfly pea flower. For those seeking something with more kick, the “Chinese Highball” combines mango and bourbon for a robust experience.

The food menu complements the drinks with Chinese-inspired small plates. The Sichuan-style fried chicken balances sweet, salty, spicy and sour flavors, while the fresh noodles with spicy minced pork gravy provide a satisfying companion to the creative cocktails.

Impressive Views of Bangkok

The panoramic vistas from this high venue rank among the best in Bangkok. From this vantage point, the city unfolds in all directions. To one side sits the historic old town with its traditional architecture. On the other, the modern skyline rises with gleaming towers.

The Chao Phraya River snakes through the landscape, adding dimension to the already spectacular views. As daylight fades, the city transforms into a sea of lights, creating a magical backdrop for an evening out.

The venue’s design maximizes these views with clear barriers and strategic seating that ensures almost every spot offers an impressive outlook. For photographers, this location provides countless opportunities to capture striking images of Bangkok from above.

Professional Photoshoot Options

With its striking aesthetic and atmospheric lighting, Yao creates an excellent environment for professional photography. Many couples choose this venue for their proposal photoshoot, taking advantage of the romantic setting.

A professional photoshoot at this elevated restaurant can enhance your visit. The golden hour light bathes the space in warm tones, while the transition to evening brings out the magic of the city lights below. Some clients arrange for a makeup artist (MUA) and stylist service to ensure they look their best for these high-end photos.

For couples seeking romantic portraits, individuals wanting sophisticated urban images, or those looking for lifestyle photos for social media, the varied settings offer diverse options. Many photographers also coordinate pregnancy photo sessions here. For those wanting something different, we can arrange a session with neons in Chinatown before or after your high-rise experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a dress code?

This establishment maintains a smart casual dress code. While not ultra-formal, guests are expected to dress appropriately for an upscale venue. Men should avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless shirts, or flip-flops. Women have more flexibility but should aim for stylish attire. This policy helps maintain the sophisticated atmosphere that makes the location special.

Do I need to make a reservation?

A reservation isn’t necessary especially during the low season. You only need to make a reservation if you plan to stay longer than an hour and after 6pm. Since the venue opens at 5pm, there aren’t many people during the first hour, and the place is almost never fully occupied. That said, if you have a specific table preference or are visiting with a larger group, calling ahead is still a good idea. Reservations can be made through the website, by phone, or through the Bangkok Marriott Hotel The Surawongse concierge.

Is it suitable for a romantic date night?

This sky venue provides an exceptional setting for romantic evenings with its tranquil views and intimate atmosphere. For professional photos during your visit, we recommend scheduling your photoshoot during the golden hour (5-6 PM) when the lighting conditions are optimal for creating magical images. Please note that additional lighting equipment is not permitted at the venue, but the natural light creates a beautiful glow for romantic portraits against the Bangkok skyline.

Is this venue family-friendly?

While the restaurant does welcome families and maintains a respectful atmosphere, it tends to have a more adult-oriented ambiance, particularly in the evening. For professional photography, we typically take photos of couples and individuals at this venue. For family photography sessions, we can recommend several other locations in Bangkok that offer more appropriate environments for capturing memorable family moments.

• Visit during golden hour (5-6 PM) for the most eye-catching views and photos
• Try at least one of their signature Chinese-inspired cocktails
• Book in advance for the best seating options
• Consider a professional photoshoot to preserve your experience

To book your professional photoshoot at this iconic Bangkok venue, contact us today for a personalized photography experience.