Ballad Riverside Rooftop Bar & Restaurant serves up delightful Thai-Western fusion by the water.
There is something eternal about the riverside which attracts our interest, no matter the hour, decade, or century. The river, through the proxy of its water, nourished communities and allowed for those living by it to flourish.
The aqueducts were the cradle of civilisation, from ancient agricultural hubs like the Indus River and Nile River to industrial centres like the Thames during the 19th century. Bangkok, too, is blessed by these waterways which bring everlasting escape, not just to the tourists but to the locals trapped in traffic gridlock galore.
The riverfront destinations in Bangkok provide plenty of opportunities for shopping, dining, leisure, and that perfect sunset for your Instagram feed.
Ballad Riverside Rooftop Bar & Restaurant is one of these humble meccas by the grand Chao Phraya River that provides respite from the constant bustle of city life. Tucked on the second and third floors of the RARIN—Bangkok Riverside Venue, Ballad Riverside looks upon a quieter portion of the golden river, offering a sense of serene getaway.
Space: Overlooking the Chao Phraya, the restaurant is located on the second floor. Stepping into the premises, you are immediately greeted by a large pool table, anchored by the bar to the left.
Behind the pool table is a large shelving unit, stocked with different liquors, a wine fridge, and bottles of water. If you cast a second glance, the last shelving unit holds several card games, suggesting a laid-back atmosphere to Ballad Riverside Rooftop Bar & Restaurant.
The true star of the restaurant’s layout, however, is the almost 360-degree view from the floor-to-ceiling windows embracing the dining area. It is easy to imagine the gorgeous view of the city visible from the restaurant, providing a romantic backdrop for its guests.
Crowd: At first glance, there are specific patrons a night at Ballad would be perfect for. It is great for both couples and people looking for a hangout space to wind down.
Their collaboration with Brewave, and the curated craft beers on tap, make it suitable for groups of friends as well. While we were there, a setup in the corner caught my eye.
Silver balloons and a bouquet of roses indicate that it would be great as an anniversary celebration too. Facing the majority of the seating area is a small stage set up with a neon sign on the wall declaring “love at first bite.”
The beauty of the riverside is its variety, and Ballad Riverside takes inspiration from its name with cocktails derived from eternally famous ballads.
Our journey began with the Burrata rocket salad (THB 450). A refreshing start, the cheese was the centrepiece amidst the foliage, and little raisins at the edges of the plate counteracted with their sweetness.
Next came a recognisable favourite in the Buffalo wings (THB 220). Guaranteed to be a focal point, the finger food arrived in a cornucopia-shaped dish, one some may even say resembled a buffalo horn—served “lollipop” style.
The wings were juicy, tender, and a burst of flavour on the tongue. Closing out the shared appetisers was the Salmon tartare ballad style (THB 290).
Presented in the traditional ring shape of the steak tartare it takes inspiration from, this interpretation is much more rooted in the Thai flavours we love.
The Wagyu beef with fried garlic rice (THB 380) kicked off the latter half of our menu for the day. Ballad seems to excel at creating harmony between familiar flavours and aesthetic presentation that looks almost too good to eat.
For a more traditional palate, don’t forget to try the Seabass with caramelised fish sauce (THB 690). The fish sauce adds a certain kick to an otherwise staple classic.
Another addition to Instagrammable meals arrived at our table with flair. Served on a deep white plate for maximum contrast was the Spaghetti black ink baby octopus (THB 420).
Even the baby octopuses were drenched in black ink. Aided by a few lemon squeezes, the pasta was creamy and reminiscent of a larger body of water.
Each dish at Ballad had a wonderful callback to every Thai classic we have loved, but for me, the Masala choice was more nostalgic while leaning towards more of a casual, fast-food palate.
The Tom Yum seafood pizza (THB 590) is an impeccable bite (or slice, if you will). The perfect plate to share with a few friends on an excursion that lasts late into the night, this pizza offers a microcosm of Bangkok’s contemporary lifestyle.
Cheesy, spicy, and aromatic, it has all the hallmarks of a crowd pleaser.
59 Soi Rat Burana 11
Bang Pakok, Rat Burana
Bangkok 10140
Opening Hours:
Monday, Wednesday to Sunday: 4 PM–12 AM
Closed on Tuesdays
Tel.:
+66 (0) 65 596 5461
Instagram:
@ballad.bkk
Website:
balladbkk.com