Mercure Bangkok Surawong

Time Out

2 days ago

Wherever you find yourself on Sukhumvit, you'll likely spot a Mercure nearby. So, it's no surprise to find one in the historic Surawong neighbourhood. What sets Mercure apart is its concept of being a 'portal to the destination'. The design, atmosphere, and even the dining are all inspired by local culture. At the Surawong branch, where old-world charm meets modern energy, the hotel strikes a thoughtful balance. It possesses a nostalgic feel without seeming outdated, featuring modern touches that don't detract from its character. With story and style, here's why Mercure Bangkok Surawong isn't just another city hotel for a short stay.
Why stay at Mercure Bangkok Surawong?
The hotel's location is top-notch if you want to spend hours travelling around the city. Right next door is Silom Road, a lively street that's all business during the day but comes alive with street food, markets and bars at night. Just a short ride away is Chinatown. And getting to other parts of the capital is easy thanks to nearby public transport, so you can quickly reach the city centre or explore different neighbourhoods without any hassle.
But what impressed me is that it's more than just a place to crash. Surawong itself has a history dating back to the late 19th century when it was a hub along the Chao Phraya River trade routes. Chinese traders and immigrants shaped the area, leaving a lasting mark on its culture, architecture and food scene. Even though many big businesses have moved elsewhere, you can still feel that vibe throughout the neighbourhood.
Once I stepped into the hotel, the design caught my eye right away. Reclaimed wood, steel and stone pay homage to the old warehouses nearby, giving the space a stylish, grounded feel that really reflects the area's heritage. It's a subtle but meaningful touch that makes your stay feel more special.
What are the rooms like at Mercure Bangkok Surawong?
Renovated from what used to be an office building, the hotel boasts 219 rooms, including classic, superior with balconies and family rooms. Each room mixes local elements with a modern feel. Traditional weaving patterns are turned into sleek wall details, giving the space a nice balance between heritage and contemporary comfort.
I stayed in a privileged room with a balcony on the 17th floor and the panoramic view of the city's skyline right from my window was a highlight. The king-size bed was very comfy. It was big enough that I honestly didn't want to get out of it. The room had all the expected amenities such as fast Wi-Fi, a capsule coffee machine, a tea station and a TV. The shower and toilet are in separate sections, with the sink placed outside.
One of my favourite parts was the balcony. It came with a small table and a couple of chairs, offering views over the surrounding buildings, including the British Club and its tennis court. It's a little spot for a morning coffee or just sitting back in the evening as the city winds down.
One small thing to flag, there wasn't a hair dryer. So if you're planning to wash your hair, you'll need to leave time for it to air dry or bring your own.
Where's there to eat at Mercure Bangkok Surawong?
To reflect the neighbourhood's Chinese roots, the hotel has its own signature restaurant called Yu Her Bao, serving modern Cantonese and Sichuan dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The concept is inspired by the mystique of jade and the menu puts a fresh spin on traditional Chinese flavours while also making the most of Thai produce. It's that kind of East-meets-East blend that feels comforting but still a little exciting. If you're coming with family or want a more intimate dining experience, there's also a private room available.
Menu highlights include crispy charcoal tofu peking duck set, fried wagyu beef with black pepper sauce, Japanese ramen noodles stir-fried hokkien style, poy leng topped with dried scallop and a refreshing chilled sago cantaloupe with coconut milk for dessert.
Starlight Rooftop Bar was the highlight of my stay. With sweeping 360-degree views of the capital, it offers the best of both worlds – the buzz of nightlife below and the calm of being high above it all. The vibe is lively but laid-back, with the DJ setting just the right tone for the evening.
The cocktail menu, curated by in-house mixologist Gongson Sonti, draws inspiration from traditional ingredients but is reimagined with a creative twist. Try bangkok night, a mix of tequila, krachai and pepper syrup, lavender, yuzu and pineapple or siam sour, a take on a classic with Mekhong whiskey, passion fruit, moringa syrup, lemongrass, egg white and a float of red wine.
What is breakfast at Mercure Bangkok Surawong?
As someone who's more than happy to wake up early for a good breakfast buffet, I was glad to find that the hotel doesn't disappoint. The morning spread is served at Yu Her Bao from 6.30am to 11am, with everything from fresh pastries, congee, and dim sum to Thai dishes and eggs done three ways. And if you'd rather sleep in, you can have breakfast delivered straight to your room to ease into the day in bed or enjoy it out on the balcony.
What is the service like at Mercure Bangkok Surawong?
The service here feels easygoing and genuinely thoughtful. The staff are professional and friendly, offering just the right amount of attention without ever making things feel too formal or stiff. During dinner, they were attentive without being intrusive, always nearby, ready to top up a glass or bring over something extra without even needing to be asked.
What facilities are available at Mercure Bangkok Surawong?
Since the top floor is home to Starlight Rooftop Bar, there's no swimming pool at the hotel. But what they do have is a fitness centre open from 6am-10pm. It features treadmills, an upright and a recumbent bike, an elliptical, a cardio wave machine, weightlifting equipment, a sit-up bench, a regular bench, free weights and yoga mats.
What's the area like around Mercure Bangkok Surawong?
Just a short stroll away is the Neilson Hays Library. Built in 1922 and designed by Italian architect Mario Tamagno, it features neo-classical details and holds about 20,000 books, from fiction to children's titles. After a recent restoration, it won a UNESCO award for cultural heritage. If you're around in May or November, check out their bi-annual book sale to find unique reads or donate books to support the library.
A few minutes down the road is Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, one of the city's oldest Hindu temples. Locals come here not only for worship but also to take part in colourful festivals and cultural events that bring the community together. Its ornate, colourful façade and intricate carvings stand out beautifully amid the city's relentless bustle.
Nearby, 100 Mahaseth, featured on Time Out Bangkok's best restaurant list, is a long-time mainstay of the mid-range dining scene in Bangkok, highlighting some of the best and most unusual local ingredients from the North and Northeast. Chef Chalee Kader masterfully blends traditional Thai flavours with modern, elegant presentations. Highlights include Chiang Mai-style sausage served on a brioche bun and herb salads paired with grilled pork heart. Upstairs, Mahaniyom offers expertly crafted cocktails inspired by local ingredients, along with a selection of tasty snacks from downstairs.
For those who enjoy a more laid-back afternoon, River City Bangkok is nearby along the Chao Phraya River. This arts and antiques complex combines galleries, shops, cafes and regularly hosts exhibitions and cultural events.
Why should you book a stay at Mercure Bangkok Surawong??
If you're looking for a well-located base while exploring Bangkok, Mercure Bangkok Surawong ticks all the boxes. Its location puts you within easy reach of some of the city's most iconic neighbourhoods, without the constant noise and chaos. What makes it stand out is how it reflects the charm and cultural layers of the area, giving the hotel a sense of personality you don't always get with big chains. It's a stay with style, story and just the right amount of character.