So What Bar Phuket Town
Tucked away in the Talat Yai neighbourhood of Phuket Town, So What Bar is a beloved local hangout drawing visitors and residents alike with its alternative atmosphere and commitment to live music. The bar has built a loyal following among those who appreciate blues, rock, and a genuinely laid-back vibe that sets it apart from the more tourist-heavy nightlife scene found elsewhere on the island. Guests can expect good-quality cocktails at reasonable prices, a welcoming crowd, and the kind of relaxed, unpretentious energy that makes it easy to linger for hours. Solo artists and full bands take to the stage regularly, with past visitors particularly praising blues performances. On quieter nights without scheduled acts, the bar maintains its friendly atmosphere — one visitor even noted being invited to play their own music when no live entertainment was on. Good to know: So What Bar appears to operate more as a neighbourhood local than a large-scale venue, so it is worth arriving without firm expectations around the entertainment schedule. Given the small, intimate setting, it can fill up on nights with live acts. As opening hours are not publicly listed, checking in advance or arriving in the early evening is a practical approach, especially for first-time visitors keen to catch a performance.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After So What Bar Phuket Town, round out your day in Phuket with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
Visited here on the way back and the solo artist was really good. Even more so I made a shocking mistake i handed over a tip but got the notes wrong and handed over 2 thousand bhats over as a tip instead of 200 bhat tip for a 480 bhat bill. She was honest enough to let me know which is amazing. Needles to say I was very happy and should remember my glasses next time Really good service. Quiet chilled bar with great live music
Great vibes here! The cocktails were good and reasonably priced. It was a bit of a shame there was no live music the day I visited, but they let me play my own, which was nice. I’d love to come back for a live performance sometime!
Awesome bar and hidden gem! Come to meet kind people and listen to some good live rock music. Nice sounds, alternative vibes and good drinks.
Tips for Visiting Nightlife & Bars
Carry Your Passport or a Copy
Clubs and some bars check IDs strictly, especially in Bangkok's Thonglor, RCA, and Sukhumvit areas. A photo of your passport info page on your phone usually works, but carrying a laminated photocopy is safer.
Know the Closing Times
Legal closing time is 2 AM for most venues, though enforcement varies. In Bangkok's designated entertainment zones (RCA, Silom Soi 2/4, Khao San), some clubs stay open until 4 AM. Islands tend to be more relaxed about hours.
Buy Bucket Drinks Cautiously
Island bucket drinks (mixed spirits in a small bucket) are cheap and fun but notoriously strong and inconsistent. Stick to one, stay hydrated, and never leave your drink unattended at beach parties.
Also Popular in Phuket
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Mu Ko Similan National Park
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Ko Racha Yai
No cars exist on this tiny island with a number of resorts pitched at all budgets & sandy beaches.
Ko Yao Yai
Large inhabited island in the Ko Yao Archipelago known for its beaches & dive sites.
Similar Nightlife & Bars Across Thailand
Nana Plaza
A multi-level nightlife complex on Sukhumvit Road packed with bars, music, and adult entertainment.
Khao San Road
Bangkok's iconic backpacker street packed with bars, street food, live music, and chaotic after-dark energy.
ARKbar Beach Club & Resort
Beachfront bar and resort on Chaweng Beach, combining nightlife energy with overnight accommodation options.
Sky Bar
Rooftop cocktail bar located on the 63rd floor of a 250m-high skyscraper & hotel with city views.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – April
Avoid: June – September (rough seas)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
24°C – 33°C(75°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January
Getting there
Phuket International Airport (HKT) receives direct international flights. Ferries connect from Krabi and Koh Phi Phi.
Getting around
- •Grab (widely available)
- •Tuk-tuks (fixed routes, negotiate)
- •Motorbike rental
- •Airport bus to Phuket Town
- •Ferry & speedboat to nearby islands