Over the last 15 or so years Ive had many(mostly enjoyable) stop overs in Bangkok. While in town I liked to mix it up a bit accommodation wise, more often than not staying near Asoke MRT/Sukhumvit BTS. Surprisingly often, I would bump into old work, school and uni mates when out and about..., we'd usually arrange and meet later for an afternoon 'frosty' or 2...,  sometimes at Cheap Charlie's(if there weren't too many back packers)..., sometimes it was Hemingway's...., sometimes other places. I would also just randomly go on my own to either of those places solo...., and it was always very easy to get into genial discussions with other random people there..., also having a couple of cold quiet ones. I admit I miss both of those wildly differing establishments for similar but differing reasons. Whatever,  I reckon people there seemed to be more predisposed to randomly have-a-chat. Obviously I don't mind a chat.., and a frosty or 2 in the arvo....., so without wanting to encourage the lurking naysays and curmudgeons 'out there', I dare to pose the questions..., Is there somewhere similar in Bkk, to those former establishments..., that is also convenient to that general area..., where I might randomly meet old mates and fellow chatterers for some chill afternoon beverages ?
Just to be clear - not interested in any kind of subtextual 'hook-up' or 'bar girl' experience.
Wishing everyone a Happy New Year.   

There are so many beer bars in town that you should find something. Lots of guys go in the afternoon to Soi Cowboy and have a drink in or more likely outside Country Road and a couple of small bars in that Soi. Or Soi 20 or Soi 22.

Yes, there are girls in most of these bars, but you don't have to interact with them. Lots of guys just go for a beer and to talk with old or possibly new friends.