Al Majlis

83/8, Soi Charoen Chai, Ekkamai Soi 12, 02-392-2345. Open daily 12:30pm-12:30am. www.almajlis-tearoom.com.
Originally built as a tearoom, there is also an alfresco area with a wine bar. Playing soft lounge music at conversation-friendly levels really makes this place more for romantic whispering than for riotous groups of buddies. You might hear the next table’s dirty talk, but then again, they might hear yours.

Shades of Retro

Next to Playground!, 08-1824-8011. Open Tue-Sun 2pm-midnight.
Retro shrine to the 50’s to the 70’s. The music is jazz and rock tunes from the golden age of these styles proudly played from the owner’s own collection. Everything in the house is up for sale. Though it claims to be a furniture shop, many chic young people occupy the venue. Remember, being a phuu dee means talking in a low voice—you’ll find no shouting here.

Sripoom

95 Chakrapong Rd., 02-281-4445. Open daily 9-1am.
This two-story bar serves Illy coffee and yummy cocktails day in and day out. Khao San tourists will pop in to read their Asian-themed pocketbooks or just chat with their friends. But Bangkokians come here too, for the slightly retro décor, the art exhibits and the good drinks. For the ultimate quiet, go to the second floor when it’s empty.

THE ZUK BAR

Lobby Level, The Sukhothai Hotel, South Sathorn Rd., 02-344-8725. Open daily Mon-Sat 4pm-1am, Sun noon-midnight.
Friendly, bright and airy hotel bar with conversational-friendly lounge music spun by a DJ right there behind the counter with the bartenders. Find young bachelors and late-night executives luring their dates out or finishing up smoking deals in the area—but all of it very hush hush.