Perth cocktail enthusiasts can skip the flight to Thailand this weekend as one of Bangkok's most celebrated bars makes a special appearance in the city. The award-winning Opium Bar is touching down at The Ritz-Carlton Perth's Songbird Bar for a one-night-only immersive experience.
A Surrealist Cocktail Takeover
This Saturday from 6pm to 8pm, the team behind Bangkok's iconic Opium Bar will transport their unique concept of Liquid Surreality to Western Australia. The event forms part of Songbird Bar's popular Twilight Tails series, which has been bringing world-class bar culture to local patrons.
Leading the takeover will be Arnon "KK" Hoontrakul, a Bangkok native and multilingual creative with extensive international experience across Europe and Asia's hospitality scenes. Guests will be treated to a showcase of Opium's most inventive cocktails, including several signature serves.
Signature Creations and Award-Winning Pedigree
The cocktail menu features Opium's most celebrated creations, each reflecting the bar's surrealist philosophy. Highlights include Mali, a whisky-based drink inspired by mangrove forests; the Espresso Macchiato, which offers an elevated twist on the classic espresso martini; the indulgent Tipsy Oreo blending gin, amaretto cream and Oreo; and More Hours With You, a floral and complex mixture that embodies the bar's distinctive style.
Marco Barsotti, The Ritz-Carlton Perth's Beverage and Bars Manager, expressed excitement about hosting the internationally acclaimed bar. "Opium Bar's surrealist cocktail philosophy and incredible reputation make them the perfect next addition to the series," Barsotti said. "This takeover will be a one-of-a-kind opportunity for locals to experience the creativity that has made Opium one of Asia's most celebrated bars."
From Bangkok's Bustling Streets to Perth
Perched above Bangkok's bustling Yaowaraj Road within the heritage POTONG building, Opium Bar has become a fixture of Asia's cocktail scene, known for its intimate late-night atmosphere and meticulously crafted drinks. The bar's commitment to quality extends to creating every element in-house, from syrups and colourings to garnishes.
Since opening, Opium Bar has achieved remarkable recognition, climbing to number 43 on Asia's 50 Best Bars list in 2025. The establishment was also named Bar of the Year at the B.A.D Awards and earned accolades from prestigious publications including Tatler, Travel + Leisure and the Top 500 Bars list.
The Twilight Tails series, launched earlier this year, continues to position Perth as a destination for world-class cocktail experiences, bringing global bar talent to local audiences through these exclusive collaborations.
