Starting Oct 1, Ruby's, the intimate cocktail bar at Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, will tell its boozy story of “Transformation” in Volume 2 of its narrative cocktail menu: a brand-new chapter in Ruby's story, coinciding with the hotel's 6th anniversary.
In the first series of cocktails, Ruby, the bar’s fictional protagonist, was heartbroken. But now Ruby has her groove back. She's feeling new things, making new memories, and slowly figuring out who she is. Her journey of self-discovery sets the tone for 13 new cocktails, each inspired by a precious stone. For the bar, these stones capture sophistication in every sip.
Among the new creations, Diamond arrives pale gold and crystal clear, topped with a hand-cut ice pyramid inspired by a rough diamond. Tequila and mezcal meet sake, vermouth, rooibos, and pear before milk clarification creates a delicate, floral profile with subtle smoky notes, drawing inspiration from the Cullinan, the largest rough diamond ever discovered. Jadeite glows green, adorned with gold-flecked ikura with Japanese whisky and matcha liqueur combined with yuzu, lychee, and house-made wasabi cordial. Fire Opal comes alive with a flame, bringing together tortilla-infused tequila, Thai tea–steeped chili liqueur, white cacao, green bell pepper, habanero, and agave for a spicy, earthy profile with chocolate depths. Inspired by the Mexican fire opal and its “bird of paradise” associations, this adds a fiery flourish to the menu.
For something more savory, Sunstone pairs Rémy Martin 1738 cognac and Cocchi Americano Bianco with bacon, blue cheese, tomato shrub, and Thai coriander, transforming familiar American diner flavors into a refined cocktail. Amethyst features a seasoned rim meant to be licked after the final sip. Islay gin and Lanna vodka meet açai, vanilla, butterfly pea, and citrus for a refreshing, berry-forward profile—a playful nod to the ancient Greek and Roman belief that amethyst prevented intoxication.
The menu also includes several low- and non-ABV options, using the same considered techniques and storytelling as the rest of the collection.
“Transformation” marks a new chapter for Ruby, shaped by what she’s been through and what lies ahead. And perhaps the best way to understand her transformation is to experience it for yourself, one sip at a time.
Ruby’s at L Floor, Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, Soi Tonson, Lumphini. 02 056 9999.
