The nightlife scene in Yangon has been heating up over the past few year with a number of new bars opening in the city. The demand has been driven mainly by a surge in tourism as hotels in Yangon experience increasing volume. Below is a guide on the best spots to find that after work beer or cocktail after a long day of sightseeing.

The auspicious city of Yangon has flown under the radar of travelers for many decades. After the government eased restrictions on entering the country, tourism has boomed in Myanmar’s largest city.

And for good reason. What has been dubbed ‘Asia’ most exotic city’ continues to charm those who visit. Victorian-era colonial architecture is scattered throughout Yangon. These buildings like the High Court and Strand Hotel are a reminder of nearly a century of British rule. The open-air Bogyoke Aung San Market in the center of the city provides a view into daily life in Myanmar.

Spirituality is ever-present, with temples and pagodas spread out through the city. The impressive Shwedagon Pagoda is the country’s most important religious site, with many Buddhists across the country making a pilgrimage to see it in their lifetime.

Yangon has also attracted a fair amount of foreign workers. It is slowly garnering a reputation as a regional hub for digital nomads those working remotely.

Development has been exciting for the city. Bars and boutique hotels in Yangon have popped up to meet the increased demand for accommodation and nightlife. A night out on the town in Yangon is a dynamic experience as expats, locals, and tourists come together to enjoy food, drinks, and music. Here are some of the great happy hour specials that have caught the attention of locals and tourists alike.

The Blind Tiger

Every day from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at this speak-easy style watering hole, draught beers, house wines and spirits, and a selection of cocktails are priced at 50% off. The Blind Tiger specializes in both local and international concoctions. It’s worth staying late on the first day of the work week as Happy Hour transitions into ‘Cocktail Crazy Mondays’ where all of their delicious signature cocktails are 20% off.

The Strand Hotel

This iconic Victorian-era colonial hotel is a destination in itself. Visited by the likes of Rudyard Kipling and Orson Welles, The Strand is the epitome of luxury. And one doesn’t have to stay here to enjoy a drink in the renowned Sarkies bar. Travelers of all budgets will rejoice at the 50% off on all drinks happy hour and complimentary bites special on Friday’s from 5 to 7pm p.m. A trip to Sarkies should be on everyone’s itinerary.

Babett

This bar located on the ground loor of Hotel G Yangon is a trendy spot for a bite to eat or an early evening drink. Babett offers an incredible special of $1 beer daily from 5 to 7 pm, and a TGIF where the guests can enjoy a Buy 1 get 1 free on selected cocktails & wines from 5 to 7pm also.

Only a couple of years old, Babett is establishing itself as a premier late night venue and won the 2018 Best Newcomer Award from lifestyle and entertainment guide Myanmore. When deciding where to stay in Yangon, Hotel G has a great location not far from the Shwedagon Pagoda and nightlife locations.

Rangoon Tea House

The chic Rangoon Tea House is a mainstay for locals and does a modern take on Burmese cuisine. In terms of happy hour, a selection of cocktails, wine and beer are 50% off between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Mr. Aung’s Chai Beer is worth a try.

After a hot day, and Yangon has its fair share of them, there is nothing more refreshing than a cool libation. Fortunately, these drink specials will keep the wallet happy as the sun sets over ‘Asia’s most exotic city’.