Coolies Club, the brainchild of the Na-Ranong family (owners of The Slate), is one of the newest and most exciting additions to Phuket’s eclectic nightlife scene in Phuket Old Town. This hidden gem, crafted by renowned designer Bill Bensley, offers a sensory journey through time, celebrating Phuket’s vibrant history with every detail.
Step Inside Coolies Club
Located in one of Old Phuket Town’s busiest alleys, Coolies Club pays stunning homage to the island’s rich history and the legacy of the Na-Ranong family. Conceived by Krystal Na-Ranong, this unique venue features 1920s Shanghai-inspired decor by Bill Bensley, highlighted by red lighting and green interiors that evoke a sense of glamour from the past. The bar showcases an array of Chinese antiques, including traditional spice cabinets and carved canopy beds, while original artworks by Bensley add to its charm.
The name “Coolies” pays tribute to the hardworking Chinese laborers who contributed to Phuket’s tin mining industry, honoring Krystal’s great-grandfather and the resilient ancestors who shaped the island’s vibrant history. In the late 16th to early 20th century, Soi Romanee was a hub of pleasure—filled with bars, brothels, and gambling spots frequented by Chinese settlers. Coolies Club now occupies a site that once housed high-end brothels, where miners sought refuge after long days of work.
Bill Bensley’s design beautifully encapsulates this history with a chic 1920s Shanghai-inspired vibe. The intimate setting features red velvet seating, vintage posters resembling courtesans, and a magnificent wooden bar, making it the perfect backdrop for both romantic date nights and lively evenings out with friends. Coolies Club seamlessly blends the allure of the past with modern flair.
The Bar at Coolies Club
The cocktail menu at Coolies is just as delightful as the venue itself. While I haven’t sampled the food yet (that’s on my list for next time!), the drinks are something special. Signature cocktails like the intriguingly named ‘Courtesan’s Kiss’ are a bittersweet blend of Chinotto Orange and Campari, evoking tales of forbidden love. Holly, my fellow foodie, opted for a virgin margarita, which she praised for its perfect balance of sour and salt.
With a fine selection of both alcoholic and zero-proof cocktails, Coolies caters to all, ensuring no one misses out on the fun.
Come for the Drinks, Stay for the Experience
Coolies Club goes beyond just drinks and décor. Every Saturday, the venue transforms for their Chinoiserie Soirée with cabaret & drag show performances for a captivating night of elegance. Sundays, meanwhile, are dedicated to their Dim Sum Bubble Brunch, which offers a more laid-back yet indulgent way to close the weekend.
For those looking for something more intimate, Coolies offers an extraordinary Opium-Den Dining Affair. Here, guests are treated to a six-course menu paired with fine wine and sake, all while seated in a private bedroom overlooking the bustling street below. It’s a unique, one-of-a-kind dining experience, steeped in the mystique of Soi Romanee’s past.
Why You Should Visit Coolies Club in Phuket
I visited Coolies Club after a dinner at the Courtyard by Marriott with Holly, during the last night of the Vegetarian Festival. Phuket’s streets were alive with firecrackers and fireworks, but stepping into Coolies felt like a peaceful escape from the madness outside. With its intimate corners and beautifully lit ambiance, it was a photographer’s dream—a place I can’t wait to revisit with my camera to capture even more of the details I missed the first time around.
Coolies Club is not just a bar—it’s a story, an experience, and a window into Phuket’s past, all wrapped up in glamorous 1920s Shanghai-inspired décor. Whether you’re sipping on a classic cocktail or indulging in an unforgettable dining experience, this is one spot in Phuket Old Town that promises a night you won’t forget.
Don’t Miss:
- Saturday: Chinoiserie Soirée with live performances at 8:30 PM
- Sunday: Dim Sum Bubble Brunch from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
How to Get to Coolies Club in Phuket Old Town
Address: 11 Soi Romanee Tambon Talat Yai, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Phuket 83000
Opens from Tuesday to Sunday from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM – Closed on Mondays
Parking: Street Parking
For bookings: 063 454 6966 or book directly your table online
Budget: THB 400++ for a signature cocktail
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