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KOKULABO Bangkok — A Modern Izakaya with a Playful Spirit in Siam

Words: Pasuta Phongam Photos: Pasuta Phongam

Tucked into the L Floor of Siam @ Siam Pattumwan House, KOKULABO Bangkok reframes the izakaya through a distinctly contemporary lens. Here, Japanese culinary tradition is distilled into a more fluid, design-led experience—precise in execution yet intentionally relaxed in spirit. The space moves between refinement and ease, where considered technique meets a quietly playful energy, inviting a more intuitive, unstructured way of dining in the heart of Siam.

KOKULABO Bangkok presents a contemporary Japanese interior that reinterprets the izakaya experience with a refined, design-forward sensibility. Located in the heart of Siam, the restaurant pairs warm ambient lighting from oversized paper lanterns with rich wood finishes, deep-toned walls, and subtle red accents, creating an intimate yet modern dining atmosphere. Curated displays of ceramics and teaware highlight Japanese craftsmanship, while seasonal floral installations introduce a natural, understated elegance. Balancing sophistication with comfort, KOKULABO offers a stylish Japanese dining setting in Bangkok—ideal for relaxed evenings, social gatherings, and an elevated izakaya experience.


At KOKULABO, the philosophy is pared back yet purposeful—an interplay of precision, integrity, and quiet playfulness. Rooted in the rituals of the classic izakaya, the menu unfolds with a more contemporary rhythm, where technique is expressed with lightness rather than rigidity. Dishes are conceived for sharing, layered with confident, well-balanced flavours, and served with an ease that encourages a more intuitive way of dining—whether for a brief interlude or an unhurried evening.

The experience often begins with small plates that set the tone. The Kombu Cheese & Crackers offers a subtle umami depth, with marinated cream cheese infused with kombu, delivering a delicate yet memorable start.

For something richer, the Tori Reba chicken liver is smooth and indulgent, highlighting the kitchen’s confidence with bold, nuanced flavours.

The Sashimi Appetizer, a daily selection of fresh seafood, showcases both quality and seasonality, offering a clean, precise introduction to the menu.

As the meal unfolds, the kitchen moves seamlessly between light and hearty. The Hotate Butter—pan-fried baby scallops in butter—delivers a comforting richness, while still retaining the natural sweetness of the seafood.

The sashimi selection continues to impress, from the clean, vibrant Akami to the buttery Chu-toro, alongside Shiromi, Hotate, and bursts of briny Salmon Roe, each cut prepared with careful attention to texture and balance.

For those seeking more composed dishes, the Caterpillar roll brings together eel, shrimp tempura, and ebiko wrapped in avocado—a familiar combination elevated by thoughtful execution.

Meanwhile, the Japanese “F1” Beef Steak offers a deeper, more indulgent note, highlighting premium quality with a clean, satisfying finish.

Beyond the food, KOKULABO carries the spirit of a true izakaya—one that encourages spontaneity. There is no fixed way to dine here. Guests can drop in for a few small plates or settle in for a full evening of shared dishes and generous pours. It is this flexibility, paired with strong execution, that defines the experience.


KOKULABO is not just about what’s on the plate, but how it makes you feel—comfortable, curious, and free to explore. In the heart of Siam, it offers a refreshing take on Japanese dining, where tradition meets a modern rhythm, and every visit unfolds a little differently. KOKULABO Bangkok Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 17:00 -23:00 PM

Location: Siam Patumwan House, 414 Phayathai Rd., Pathumwan, Bangkok

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