Cariocas Bistro and Lounge offers a laid-back slant on Latin American living.  By Alyssa Ong.

Set in the touristy Phuket Old Town, Latin American-themed Cariocas Bistro and Lounge is a laid-back watering hole located at the Baan Phuanda Hotel. Bar owner Florian Niessing – formerly the assistant f&b manager of Le Meridien Hotel in Xiamen, China – designed the concept and look of the bar, incorporating locally sourced furniture into the colourful lounge. The signature drinks, also designed by Niessing, incorporate Thai vodka, lemongrass, coconuts and chillis to give classic cocktails a Siamese kick. Elsewhere on the menu, tiki drinks fit the island culture, while four-week-aged, spirit-forward cocktails cater for the serious drinker. Besides serving as a spot to get your drink on, Niessing also puts on mixology classes held every second Saturday of the month to school anyone interested in picking up a tip or two in drink making. “We run the classes for everyone who is interested – we are certain this will attract people from all walks of life, and bring cocktail culture and art closer to their homes,” says Niessing.

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The daily specials and happy hour deals, chalked on a lounge wall.

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Cariocas Bistro & Lounge / 371/22-26 Yaowarat Road, Talad Yai District, Phuket Town / +66 76 2184 034 / www.cariocaslounge.com

DRiNK Magazine is available for pick-up at Cariocas Bistro and Lounge.