Whenever – if ever – Bangkok’s nightlife returns, it will be without Thonglor venue 12×12, as the award-winning dive bar is throwing in the towel due to government restrictions on alcohol, capacity and closing times.
I had a chance to visit owner Hiroshi Matsui before he heads back to his hometown of Kanagawa, Japan, in two weeks as he was preparing for a yard sale this weekend.
Since opening its doors in 2014, 12×12 earned praise for its vintage decor, cozy vibes and, most importantly, open-minded music policy. Depending on the event, the sound could range from disco to jazz and experimental electronica. The venue won BK mag’s B.A.D Award for best dive bar – twice! – in 2018 and 2019.
Hiroshi got his start in the bar business back in the early 2000s when he and his business partner opened Breaks in Soi Silom 2/1. In 2014 Hiroshi decided to go all…
