MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM
It was a mere four months ago that Midsummer Night’s Dream Bar officially opened its doors. Located on Sukhumvit Soi 55, this cosy, three-level speakeasy-style hideaway has chosen William Shakespeare’s famous pastoral comedy as both its name and its source of inspiration, with 12 signature cocktails highlighting characters that appear in the play, and a special cocktail in honour of ‘The Bard’ himself. However, singling out one bartender as the creative force here is a bit difficult, as the drinks menu is a team effort and, much like in the theatre, everyone plays his or her vital role.
The Senior Bartender is Kronchawan "Plug" Natemarn (above), whom some may know from his time spent at 008 Bar, while next in command is Pongnarin “James” Padsamala, ex of Vesper. Another Vesper alumni on board is General Manager Wareewan “Oil” Yodkamol, who also lists on her CV stints at Demo and Zuma. The final heavy hitter in the mix is Chennarong “Janz” Bhumichitr, from the now defunct Backstage Bar, who consulted for the overall beverage program and created the majority of the fabulous Shakespearean cocktails. The bar itself sits overtop the Wynn Wood Florist Studio, which is run by one of the bar’s multiple owners and supplies the fresh flowers that generously decorate the low-lit, dream-like interior – gorgeously designed by Paradigm Shift studios (of Crimson Room, Rabbit Hole, and Playroom fame).
“The first level is focused on the craft cocktails, while on the next level up we focus on gin, and the perfect serve – matching the gin you choose to the best tonic and garnish,” explains Oil. The very top level contains a private room (reservable in advance) which offers plush seating, a separate sound system, a dedicated washroom, and plenty of top-shelf spirits. “We call it ‘The Fairy’s Dream’. It’s a bit erotic,” she says, with a mischievous laugh.
So, why name a 21st century Thai watering hole after a 16th century English playwright? “One of the owners, he loves Shakespeare, and he thought, ‘How do we create a bar that links with the flower shop downstairs?’ Then he was reminded of A Midsummer
Night’s Dream, a story that takes place in the forest,”
Oil points out, adding that – ironically – this narrow building used to in fact be a liquor shop.