FREE BOOZE is fuelling renewed interest in the old Phuket Brewery, which reopened at the weekend as Long Lao Sang Chan (Whisky by Moonlight.)

The venue, with seating at tables for 2000 plus, was doing surprisingly well when Phuketwan dropped by on Monday night. A character change is evident, along with the new signage.

Families are now only welcome on the outside, where a Dutch couple and a few other expats were among those hoeing into large serves of food on the terrace, opposite Tesco-Lotus.

The nightly Thai country rock, performed on the large stage by three bands, is aimed at locals who like the Carabao style of music.

The bands play there most nights, and entry is free for those 20 years old and over except when there's a special concert by a headline performer.

The whisky is free for the first month, too, to groups of four or more. Before 10pm it's Red Label and after 11pm, Benmore.

While there are 20 gentlemen dressed in black who no doubt encourage drinking in moderation, the mood of the place is definitely towards a different audience.

Manager Withun Chanbunkaeo has 10 years of experience in the entertainment business and now runs 14 venues throughout Thailand.

He believes that the recipe is about right for Phuket, even when the free whisky wears off. Mixers are 35 baht.

Prices outside on the terrace are little steeped than average but the servings are larger and designed to be shared by groups. Long Lao Sang Chan is open from 6pm to 2am.