Unlike my other reviews, this is a fairy tale story…
Once upon a time, but not that long ago, Bangkok was sorely lacking bars that felt like escapes from the city, that offered cocktails that both in looks and names seemed like mystical potions, and food menus that were both delicious and satisfying. Then The Iron Fairies (official Facebook page) changed all of that…
Walking into their original location on Thonglor was like simultaneously stepping into a fairy tale world and TOOL video. Dimly lit, with bric-a-brac arranged to weave an ambiance both cozy and slightly sinister, like the workshop of a mythical being, the place was simply enchanting. It was easy to lose yourself and your sense of time there. The labyrinth of stairs, hidden smoker’s area, secret drinking rooms, and Santeria alter/bathroom under the staircase, were all little touches that added to the mystique of the joint.
And then, like many portals to fairy tale worlds, one day it was just gone…
Ready to dig in?
After 3 years The Iron Fairies has finally returned to the Bangkok bar scene at its new location on Sukhumvit Soi 39. My gal and I visited to check out their food and cocktail menu and we were both thrilled to find that they still offer an excellent food and cocktail menu along with a sense of enchantment. I’m happy to share this experience with you.
Are you ready to dig in?
BIG Bites!
The Iron Fairies differs many many Bangkok bar scenes in that their food menu offers some seriously hefty meals along with smaller dishes to nosh on. Let’s lead off with the heavy hitters, and begin with the one that really sticks to your ribs, their famous Fat Gutz Burger!
The Fat Gutz Burger
Fat Gutz Burger (580 baht)
The Iron Fairies is proud to once again offer one of the most iconic burgers in Bangkok’s burger scene, the Fat Gutz Burger (580 baht). This towering burger holds a juicy patty of juicy Wagyu beef, thick-cut bacon, crispy onion rings, cheddar cheese, pickled jalapeños, and sliced tomato, sandwiched between sesame seed buns slathered with homemade barbecue and honey mustard sauces.
Served with potato wedge fries, this is a burger that you hold with two hands in a vice-like grip to smash it down, and still have to slightly dislocate your jaw to bite into! I guarantee this meal will leave you feeling fat and happy…
PRO TIP: For folks that remember the Fat Gutz Saloon menu, The Iron Fairies also offers Fish n’ Chips (550 baht) which is just like what Fat Gutz used to sling in their saloon!
The Chicken Burger
The Chicken Burger (550 baht)
Not a fan of beef? No problem. The Iron Fairies offers alternate burger options that are still pretty massive and guaranteed to satisfy your hunger. My gal’s favorite is The Chicken Burger (550 baht). If you think chicken burgers are usually quite bland and uninteresting then order this and have your mind changed after your first bite!
This burger is crafted to bombard your tastebuds with waves of flavor. It contains a large crispy battered chicken thigh that is brushed with a maple lemon chili glaze, crowned with thick-cut bacon and a slice of melted taleggio cheese, and served on a bed of tangy coleslaw, all of which are sandwiched between a fluffy brioche bun.
If I’m being honest here, just writing about it makes me want it again…
Tacos, tacos, tacos…
Tacos Trio (550 baht)
Looking for lighter food that will still satisfy your appetite? Try the Tacos Trio (550 baht). This meal consists of three different tacos which include beef birria, tuna tartare, and seabass shizo. This is a meal perfect for those who want to snack and get full without falling into a food coma.
Small Bites
Maybe you’ve already had dinner when you visit. You didn’t come here hungry, but after a few drinks, you find yourself in a snacking mood. Forget pretzels and peanuts. The Iron Fairies menu offers some small bites that are much better!
Gambas Al Pil Pil
Gambas Al Pil Pil (380 baht)
This simple tapas dish of Gambas Al Pil Pil (380 baht) contains large succulent sweet prawns, fried in butter garlic, chili, and parsley. It is served with toasted bread which you should definitely use to mop up all that tasty garlic chili butter sauce!
Iron’s Medley
Iron’s Medley (150 baht)
For a bit of variety in your snacking, try the Iron’s Medley (150 baht). This dish contains skewered chunks of tender chicken with teriyaki and sesame, a cumin-spiced chickpea kebab with Za’atar, and Paddy’s savory mushroom quesadilla. This is another winning dish for those that want to snack and leave room for more cocktails.
Speaking of cocktails…
Expertly Crafted Cocktails…
With our meals, my gal and enjoyed beer and wine. But it would be a mistake to visit The Iron Fairies and not try some of their expertly crafted cocktails. Their cocktail menu is extensive, and the bartenders know what they’re doing.
I’m a whiskey fan. An Old Fashioned is usually my go-to cocktail. However, I was very pleased to see this Sazerac (350 baht) on The Iron Fairies cocktail menu. They make this New Orleans classic with Rye Whiskey, bitters, and an absinthe rinse. I wish more bars offered this drink on their menu!
My gal ordered their signature cocktail, Smoke & Fire (450 baht). It’s a little more fruity with fiery ginger and blackberries combined with aged rum and amaro liqueur served smoked in a little bottle. A sweeter drink with a lot of depth, she was very happy with the bartender’s skill.
The Ambiance
The Iron Fairies’ new location offers more open seating with a few tucked-away private areas for those wanting a bit more privacy. The ambiance is enchanting, though. With vials of “fairy dust” and gothic gargoyle figures displayed everywhere.
Leather and iron and wood make up all the furnishings, but with plush-worn leather sofas and chairs, it provides cozy comfort for those who want to eat, drink, and chill.
Live Jazz
We had the good fortune to visit on a Monday when they had a live band playing and an open mic night for those who fancied a turn at the microphone. Jazzy Coco kicked off the evening with some amazing jazz and blues serenades. A great singer who really set the mood, if you get a chance to see her and her band in action you will certainly have a memorable evening!
I’m hungry (and thirsty)! Where is it?
Downstairs bar
The Iron Fairies is located on Sukhumvit Soi 39. The entrance is in the back area (you’ll see neon signs for a “Peep Show”, this is actually going to be a private chef table dining experience). Just walk on into the wooden shack, pull back the thick dark curtain, and be amazed at what is revealed!
I want to hear from you!
Should you decide to experience Iron Fairies, I’d love to hear your feedback in the comment section below, directly to me, or via message on either the Chow Traveller Facebook page or Chow Traveller Instagram (and feel free to like/follow these pages if you want to learn about more about the foodie gems I find). However you choose to reach out, I’d love to hear from you!
