BK Weekend 575 Jan30 2015

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ADVERTORIAL

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ADVERTORIAL

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About time

BK MAGAZINE NO. 575 FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com

MEAL STEALS

The best fine-dining lunch deals in town

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ADVERTORIAL

Krungsri Gourmet Celebrate Chinese New Year in Style The Berkeley Hotel

San Yod

Pratunam

Up to 15% discount

Up to 50% discount

• 5% discount on food when dining over B500

• Only B599 net for Peking duck (from B1,200)

(CentralWord and Sena Fest branches only)

• Only B299 net for DimSum Set 1 5 baskets+hot/cold Chinese tea or chrysanthemum tea (from B750++) • Only B399 net for DimSum Set 2 7 baskets+hot/cold Chinese tea or chrysanthemum tea

• 10% further discount* for using the same amount of points redeemed after the 5% discount *(for Krungsri credit card only)

(from B1,050++)

At The Mulberry Multi Cuisine Restaurant

Now-Apr 30, 2015 Sathorn 0 2236 3905, 0 2234 7968 CentralWorld 0 2613 1691 Sena Fest 0 2108 9022

Feb1-Apr 30, 2015 Pratunam

0 2309 9999

Royal Kitchen Open since 1985, this Thonglor institution is well-known for delicious Cantonese cuisine prepared by Hong Kong chefs. Drop by at lunch for the special dim sum variations (B80-120) ranging from basic shrimp dumplings to more sophisticated options like abalone. Eight-or-nine-course menus are starting from B6,800 for a table of ten, or go for the signature Peking duck (B950) if you’re with a smaller party.

For Thonglor branch Hai Ba Wang

Buy 1 get 1 for set menu from Feb 1 – May 31, 2015 • 15% discount on food (for Krungsri Exclusive Signature Credit card, Krungsri Signature Credit card, Krungsri Platinum

10% discount on food

•

•

Credit Card, Central The Black, Central Black, Central Credit Card Platinum, Tesco Lotus Visa Platinum)

10% discount on food (for other card type) from Feb

1 – Dec 31, 2015

Peking Restaurant

10% discount on food (except set menu)

For Terminal 21 branch •

10% discount on food (for all card type) from Feb

1 – Dec 31, 2015

Now-Dec 31, 2015

Feb 1-Dec 31, 2015 Now-Dec 31, 2015 Silom-Narathiwas Rd.

0 2234 1002

912/6 Sukhumvit 55 (Thonglor) 5/F Terminal 21

Richmond Intercontinental Hotel Ratchada Sukhumvit 21 Silom Building

0 2391 9634 0 2108 0814-5

Xinn Tien Di Restaurant

0 2661 3008 0 2656 1615 0 2642 2322 0 2258 3700 0 2237 8989

Siam Chinese

10% discount on food

5% discount on food (except drinks and food

that is on other promotion)

Now-Dec 31, 2015

Now-Dec 31, 2015

3/F Gaysorn Plaza

Soi Suksawittaya, Sathorn Nuea Rd.

0 2656 2114

0 2235 6677- 8

Credit Cards of Krungsri

*Please check terms && &conditions with restaurants and other media under Krungsri Consumer. *Please check terms conditions with the restaurants andunder under Krungsri Consumer Group. *Please check *Please more check terms more &more conditions terms conditions with restaurants with the restaurants and media other under media Krungsri under Consumer Krungsri Consumer Group.

Group. *Please check more terms &more conditions with the the restaurants and otherother media Krungsri Consumer Group. *Please check more terms & conditions with thethe restaurants and other media under Krungsri Consumer Group.

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page 3 January News Quiz

6 cover story

Lunch time 1. The economy is tanking. What are we doing about it?

16 fashion

20 tech

The Plain Game

Tablet Talk

22 blends

23 bites

Play it Again

Top Dogs

a. Opening no more than two restaurants backed by European Michelin-star chefs a month. b. Eating sandwiches. Open-face, on rye bread, with gravlax salmon. c. It’s OK. The worst of the Bublé has passed. d. Switching from Louis Vuitton bags to locally-crafted leather goods that look like high-school projects.

2. How did taxis react to a Japanese man who complained about getting ripped off at Suvarnabhumi? a. They welcomed the constructive criticism and vowed to improve. b. They decided to boycott dinner at Mugendai and Aoi, formerly huge favorites of theirs.

32 BK now

35 last word

Ladphrao Lowdown

Kitchen King

General Manager Andrew Hiransomboon

Advertising Director Wanida Akeapichai Sales Manager Tipkritta Chiraporncharas Senior Sales Associates Tassanee Mahamad, Orajira Sukkasem, Onwara Sittirug, Waranuch Thaneerat, Nattaya Bovornsettanon, Orakarn Laohakanjanasiri Junior Sales Associates Doungporn Wanasinchai, Buttri Tanrungruang

Managing Editor, Product Director Gr goire Glachant Managing Editor Oliver Irvine Deputy Editor Carl Dixon Features Associate Monruedee Jansuttipan Senior Staff Writer Vasachol Quadri Junior Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Junior Writers Lily Kittisrikangwan, Kanin Srimaneekulroj, Natcha Sanguankiattichai Production Supervisor Komkrit Klinkaeo Art Director Dechart Sangsawang Senior Graphic Designer Panita Thiraphapong Graphic Designers Chantich Kongchanmitkul, Peeraya Sirathanisa Junior Graphic Designers Nemintorn Ketkeaw, Wariya Whangwaewklang

Regional Marketing Manager Pavida Chitprasertsuk Marketing Executive, Creative Services Puttipat Teerakawongsakul

Senior Accountant Maneeya Kanthongdang Administrator Yaovaluck Srisermsri Accountant Manita Bangmoung Contributors Rob Brezsny, Kathy MacLeod

b. The rice we got from Burma wasn’t the right kind for sushi and risotto, making its use in Bangkok too limited.

Cover by Dechart Sangsawang

c. NLA, OAG, NACC, G-to-G, if you know what we mean.

IT Manager Takrit Jitjaroen

Group Directors

Distribution Executive Suda Angsuputiphant

Chief Executive Officer Gretchen Worth gworth@asia-city.co.th Group Digital Director Greg Duncan duncann@asia-city.com.sg

Finance Manager Supaporn Bangmoung Assistant Finance Manager Anchalee Limkhamduang

Singapore Asia City Publishing Pte. Ltd. Block 211 Henderson Rd. #14-03 Henderson Industrial Park Singapore 159552

a. Worked in friendly cooperation with Cambodia to repatriate any that don’t belong to us.

Tel: 65-6323-2512 Fax: 65-6323-2779 Email: ismag@asia-city.com.sg Kuala Lumpur Pacific Tourism Communications Sdn Bhd

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BK “Asia City Living” Magazine is edited by Andrew Hiransomboon and published 51 times a year, every Friday of each month by Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Copyright ©2015 Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. The titles “BK Magazine,” “BK ‘Asia City Living’ Magazine” and their associated logos or devices, and the content of BK “Asia City Living” Magazine are the property of Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited. Article reprints are available for B50 each. The magazine may not be distributed without the express written consent of Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Contact the Advertising Department for ad rates and specifications. All advertising must comply with the Publisher’s terms of business, copies of which are available upon request. Printed by Comform Co.,Ltd. 212 Moo 13 Krungthepkreetha Rd., Saphansoong, Bangkok 10250

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d. We lost US$15 billion that could have been better spent on two or maybe even three 25-sq-meter apartments in downtown Bangkok.

4. What have Thai authorities done with the Khmer treasures recovered from Pol Lt Gen Pongpat Chayaphan?

The Asia City Publishing Group Shanghai Email: shonline@asia-city.com.cn

a. She couldn’t explain the scheme in language a 47-year-old prime minister could understand.

Interns Tewit Phanitprachaya, Nareerat Yoddamnern, Jetnipit Sahusyotin, Kwanwalai Rodsaward, Soravis Laopadolkij

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d. They promised to learn from Uber’s customer service standards: charging a fixed B1,000 to the airport, charging flexible surge prices during peak hours, handing out B7 water bottles.

3. Why did Yingluck’s rice pledging scheme lead to her impeachment?

Who's in charge?

Bangkok Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd 22/F, Silom Center 2 Silom Road, Bangkok 10500 Tel: 02-624-9696 Fax: 02-237-5656 Email: bkmagazine@asia-city.co.th

c. They used Google Translate to express their innermost rage in Japanese, creating some of the most beautiful haiku in recent memory.

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b. Given the Cambodians a few dodgy fakes—but the rest are definitely on their way. c. Displayed them in an artistic institution the public can actually enjoy: Paragon Hall of Mirrors. d. Opened a museum in their honor somewhere in Rattanakosin, to be closed on weekends, public holidays, and any other times we’re not at work. latest news and trends

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@bkmagazine BK Magazine Friday, January 30, 2015

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upfront HOT OR NOT

Hot: Lunch

Not: Brunch

It’s time to take a break from waffles and craft beers, folks. All these Michelin-star chefs (see our interview with Joel Robuchon, page 31) have come to town to show us what proper food with proper service is. Too bad we can’t afford to dine at their restaurants. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best fine-dining lunch deals, so that we may set foot in these gastronomic temples (see cover story, page 6).

Hot: 90s throwbacks

Not: Jazz festivals

Another week, another jazz festival (see page 28). Koh Mr. Saxman is one very busy dude. Not that anyone seems to care given the ever-increasing number of bars playing a good ol’ fashioned iTunes playlists. Of our list of Bangkok’s best bars with consistently good soundtracks (see Blends, page 22), at least half have a distinctly 90s flavor, whether it’s the names (Happy Monday) or the outdated singalongs (Bar 23).

Hot: Farmer’s market Not: Home delivery wars services Everyone with an oven is opening their own Facebook or Instagram page to sell their cakes. At least at the farmer’s markets you can see what you’re paying for before you buy. And competition is heating up on that front, with Bangkok Farmer’s Market getting booted from K Village, to be replaced by newbie Urban Eatery (see page 26).

Hot: Free screenings

ALMOST FAMOUS Last week, some Bangkok taxi drivers caused a scandal by allegedly refusing to serve Japanese passengers in retaliation to a Japanese visitor’s viral Facebook complaint.

On the other hand, there’s Suwannachat “Diao” Phromchat, a 38-year-old taxi driver whose car bears a bumper sticker that translates to, “Let it go, Never Mind, Thank You, Sorry.” Not only does Diao promise he’ll never say no to a passenger’s request, he also offers free rides to the disabled.

We heard you offer free services to the handicapped. Why?

Does providing free services mean you earn less?

What did you do before becoming a taxi driver?

I once picked up a handicapped passenger and helped him to get into the car. After that, I was shocked that he started crying, saying some taxi drivers weren’t willing to give him a hand at all. I just wanted to help.

Many people ask me this question.

They’re curious about why I help people for free. I’m not rich, but I don’t need to talk about money all the time. I’ve always said that if I earn less money today, I’ll make up for it tomorrow. Whenever I give a hand to the disabled, they always bless me. And I believe that’ll make my life better.

I worked as a construction worker when I was 16. It was a tad dull having to repeat the same routine every day. I wanted a job that provided me freedom, and being a taxi driver does that.

What do you think about taxi drivers who refuse to go to particular areas?

They obviously lack a service mind.

I think cab drivers should treat every passenger like members of their family. And when it comes to foreigners, first impressions are very important in order to encourage them to revisit our country. We need to be good representatives of the country.

Not: House RCA

Sadly, things seem awfully quiet over at House RCA. Meanwhile bar after bar keeps announcing “special free screening nights.” This is the age of high-speed downloading, for chrissakes––why go play musical chairs with a group of strangers with questionable body odor, when you can do it home, alone, with the lights off? Better yet, go buy a ticket, support your cinema, lest they close and you’re left with everyone complaining that there’s nothing to do in this town.

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Who were some of your most memorable passengers?

There have been people who take pictures of my car and post them on social networks. Also, some people gave me dharma books, which I found impressive. However, there are also some jerks who make an appointment with me to pick them up. But when I arrive, they just never appear. That annoys me sometimes.

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What’s your daily routine?

Normally I wake up around 9-10am.

I drive all day long until around 11pm most days. Sometimes I wait for customers who need a ride until 2am.

Any future plans?

I plan to buy a new car. I want to continue as a taxi driver. Helping others with their day really makes my day.

Interview by Nareerat Yoddamnern

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THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

by Kathy MacLeod kathymacleod.blogspot.com

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cover story

Haute Cuisine at High Noon Want to eat at Bangkok’s best restaurants on a budget? Then eat at lunch.

Here are some of the best mid-day fine-dining deals out there.

By Natcha Sanguankiattichai and Nareerat Yoddamnern

Le Normandie

French

Thai

LE NORMANDIE

BO.LAN

The lunch price: B1,350-2,300 (Mon-Sat 12-2pm)

The lunch price: B980 (Thurs-Sun 12.2:30pm)

The dinner price: From B2,950 for 4 courses

The dinner price: B2,280 for 4 courses, B2,680 for 7 courses

The original face of Bangkok fine dining. Everything’s super traditional, from the expertly polished waiters to the millimeter-perfect table settings. It all creates a genuine aura of prestige, but boy, do they normally make you pay for the privilege. The lunch prices are also above the Bangkok average, but it’s certainly not bad given the restaurant’s reputation. The set menu comprises three courses—an appetizer or soup, a fish or meat main dish, and dessert—and costs B1,350. Make that B1,750 for four courses (appetizer and dessert) or B2,350 for five courses (add a fish course). Two glasses of wine cost an extra B650.

Mandarin Oriental Hotel, 48 Oriental Avenue, Charoenkrung Rd., 02-659-9000

L’ATELIER DE JOËL ROBUCHON The lunch price: B950-1,850 (daily 11:30am-2:30pm) The dinner price: B5,000 for 5 courses, B7,500 for 7 courses This chic, red-and-black restaurant designed by PierreYves Rochon (who did London’s Savoy and Paris’s Four Seasons George V) may turn out contemporary French fine dining, but the large open-kitchen is more reminiscent of a sushi bar. Each set menu starts with an amusebouche (bite-sized hors-d’oeuvre, chef selected), followed in the smallest set by one main course plus your choice of either starter, cheese or dessert. Mains include things like black cod served with Malabar pepper sauce and coconut foam, and Iberico pork pluma in a broth of shiitake and fresh coriander. Wine starts at B360/glass.

5/F, 96 Mahanakorn Cube, Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Rd. 02-001-0698

LE BEAULIEU The lunch price: B695-995 (Mon-Fri 11:30am-3pm) The dinner price: À la carte. Mains B1,450-8,500 The weekday set lunch at this established French fine-dining favorite aims at a far more hearty, rustic approach than you might find at dinner. Dishes like coq-au-vin, slow-cooked lamb shoulder and Madame Burgaud duck are served over your choice of business or executive set (both 3 courses), with some slightly fancier items reserved for the executive set.

Address: G/F, Athénée Tower, 63 Wireless Rd. 02-168-8220

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The place: The new Bo.lan venue keeps up the old one’s spirit of contemporary-meets-traditional Thai décor and classic flavors done in a refined style. The set lunch menu rotates regularly—these guys are serious about seasonality—and includes a salad, a soup, a stirfried dish and a curry, each with two options to choose from, served together with rice. An amuse bouche and a dessert or fruit plate is also included.

L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon

24 Sukhumvit Soi 53, 02-260-2962. BTS Thonglor

NAHM The lunch price: B1,500 (Mon-Fri 12-2pm) The dinner price: B2,200 for 3 courses The place: What’s regularly voted some of the best Thai food in the world doesn’t come cheap. But the food at Nahm really does need to be experienced, and 12-2pm Mon-Fri is your best time to do it. Like dinner, everything is designed for sharing, meaning each table needs to agree on what they want to order so portions can be scaled accordingly. Included in the lunch set is a selection of Thai canapes, a salad, a soup, a curry, a stir-fried or steamed dish and dessert, plus one choice from the à la cate menu.

Le Normandie

G/F, The Metropolitan Hotel, 27 South Sathorn Rd., 02-625-3333

SRA BUA The lunch price: B1,350 (Mon-Sun 12-2:30pm) The dinner price: B2,200 for 7 courses, B2,700 for 11 courses Totally unlike Nahm, Sra Bua reinvents Thai food by taking traditional flavors and presenting them in dishes found nowhere else. As such, it provides one of the most unique experiences in town. The B1,350 lunch menu gives a good taste of that, with three appetizers, two main dishes and dessert. Current creations include roasted cashew nut soya meringue and hokkaido scallop in tamarind and lemongrass sauce.

Siam Kempinski Hotel, 991/9 Rama 1 Rd., 02-162-9000

Bo.Lan

Nahm

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BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2015

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cover story Chinese CHINA HOUSE The lunch price: B988 (Mon-Sat 11:30am-2:30pm) The dinner price: B2,088 for 5 courses, B8,888 for 9 courses China House is one sexy place: the tiny aquamarine bar, the deep red and black lacquers, the films playing in the toilets. It all makes for a suitably moody, Shanghai-inspired setting to enjoy unlimited dim sum, with about 30 different varieties on offer, from simple steamed buns to black truffle xiao long pao. You can also select a soup, rice or noodle dish, and dessert from a few choices. Best of all, the same deal runs on weekends.

48 Oriental Avenue, 02-659-9000

MEI JIANG The lunch price: B1,000-2,100 (Mon-Sun 11:30am-2:30pm) The dinner price: B1,850-B2,950 for 6 courses The best thing about this restaurant during the daytime isn’t just the prices, but the beautiful garden views overlooking The Peninsula’s perfectly manicured lawns and the Chao Phraya River. The classic fare comes in two sets: one includes four fixed main dishes—Szechuan-style chicken, Chinese spinach with minced pork and clam, stirfried egg noodles with chicken and sesame dumplings—while the more expensive option focuses on seafood.

G/F, The Peninsula Bangkok, 333 Charoen Nakhon Rd., 02- 626-184-7

Yamazato

Italian JOJO The lunch price: B695-850 (Mon-Fri 12-3pm) The dinner price: À la carte. Mains B420-1,690 Lunch at Jojo aims at something less formal than evening service, which means you might not feel like you’re in that full, fine-dining embrace, but the prices are not to be sniffed at. B695 gets you free rein on an antipasti buffet of cold cuts, cheeses, salads and other light Italian fare. Supplement that with an extra B155 to get a main and a choice of starter or dessert from the set menu, too, which includes dishes like asparagus and salmon risotto, pan-fried sea bass and lobster and prawn bisque soup.

St. Regis, 159 Rajadamri Rd., 02-207-7815. BTS Ratchadamri

BISCOTTI The lunch price: B845-895 (Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm) The dinner price: À la carte. Main starts at B580 La Scala

The Four Seasons’ Italian restaurant may not get the attention it once did, but the food and atmosphere are still right up there. Like most five-star hotel Italian restaurants, they offer an antipasti buffet as well as a choice of more formal set menus. Dishes err towards the contemporary, and while the restaurant doesn’t feel too stuffy, service is immaculate.

Four Seasons Hotel, 155 Rajadamri Rd., 02-126-8866. BTS Ratchadamri

Tensui

LA SCALA

Japanese

The lunch price: B700-900 (Mon-Fri 12-2:30pm)

YAMAZATO

One of the city’s most highly regarded Italian restaurants (it was the only hotel restaurant to rank in our Top Tables top 10 in 2014), La Scala’s food is right at the sharp end of Italian fine dining, with dishes like foie gras risotto with red wine porched pear and roasted hazelnuts, and braised Charolaise beef cheek with like fondue and mushroom barbagianni. Alternatively, there’s an antipasti buffet at B700.

The dinner price: À la carte. Main B590-2,600

The lunch price: B520-1,500 (daily 11:30am-2:30pm) The dinner price: From B2,800 for 7 courses The Bangkok sister to Amsterdam’s Michelin-starred Yamazato, this restaurant is all about kaiseki service during dinner hours—Japan’s most formal style of dining. But daytimes are a far different affair, with the focus on donburi (rice bowls). There are nine for you to try, all served in sets and priced at a lunch-hour-friendly B450.

Mei Jiang

MORE DEALS

24/F, The Okura Prestige Bangkok, Park Ventures Ecoplex, 57 Wireless Rd., 02-687-9000. BTS Phloen Chit

TENSUI The lunch price: From B350 (daily 11:30am-2pm) Tensui has heaps of variation in its lunch sets. There’s basic tempura and grilled salmon sets at just B350 or beef sukiyaki at B450, as well as more formal eight-course sets starting at B1,200. Sushi sets (B450-2,000), sashimi sets (B450-900) and chirashi sushi bowl sets (B450-1,800) are all on offer, too.

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WATER LIBRARY CHAMCHURI

SAVELBERG

The lunch price: B850 for 2 courses, B990 for 3 courses (daily 11:30am-2:00pm)

The lunch price: B1,800 for 3 courses (Mon-Sat noon-1:45pm)

The dinner price: B2,800 for 5 courses

The dinner price: B3,000 for 4 courses, B3,900 for 6 courses, B4,800 for 8 courses

2/F Chamchuri Square, Rama 4 Rd., 02-160-5188. MRT Samyan

The dinner price: From B3,000 for 7 courses

Sukhumvit Soi 16, 02-663-2281

The Sukhothai Bangkok, 13/3 South Sathorn Rd., 02-344 8888

BENJARONG

The lunch price: B650 for 2 courses, B750 for 3 courses (Mon-Fri noon-2:30pm)

Benjarong

G/F, Oriental Residence, 110 Wireless Rd., 02-2528001. BTS Phloen Chit

ELEMENTS

The dinner price: B1,700 for 5 courses

The lunch price: B910 for 3 courses (Mon-Fri noon-2pm)

Dusit Thani, 946 Rama 4 Rd., 02-200-9000. MRT Silom

The dinner price: B3,500 for 5 courses 25/F, The Okura Prestige Bangkok, 57 Wireless Rd., 02-687-9099. BTS Phloen Chit

BK Magazine Friday, January 30, 2015

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escapes

Go Local

Grégorie Glachant

Chotima Sitthichaiviset

JAPAN

Not far from super-crowded Osaka and Kyoto, these three small towns around Kansai offer a more private escape.

By Lily Kittisrikangwan. Photos by Chotima Sitthichaiviset and Grégoire Glachant.

21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art Grégorie Glachant

Higashi Chaya District

Do

Access Thunderbird and Raicho limited express trains run from both Osaka and Kyoto to Kanazawa. From March, you can also catch the extended Hokuriku Shinkansen-Nagano train to Kanazawa, which is only 2.5 hours from Tokyo.

SLOW LIFE IN SHIRAKAWAGO UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shirakawago is home to numerous gassho-zukuri (farmhouses) that are over 250 years old and can withstand very heavy snow in the winter. We suggest you visit Ogimachi, which is the biggest and by far the most visited village in the region.

Do As you leave the bus station, walk across the bridge, where you’ll be greeted by old-style farmhouses, seemingly untouched by modern development. Take a stroll around the small village, and make a stop at Wada-ke House, the largest gassho open to the public. There are many small shops and stalls selling ramen, hida beef and rice sticks, and soft serve ice-cream, if you’re looking for a snack.

Take the walking trail to the Shiroyama Observation Point, which offers the iconic panoramic view of the village that’s often shown on postcards. A great selfie spot, there are also photographers on-site offering to take high quality photographs, many of whom speak Thai.

The best time to go is during the Light Up Festival, which takes place on selected dates at the end of January through February, when the snow-covered farmhouses are all lit up at night.

Stay Although you can cover the village comfortably within a day, a stay in one of the gassho guesthouses is an experience in itself.

These lodgings are run by local families, offering simple and traditional accommodation, shared amenities and home-cooked meals for dinner and breakfast. If you want to stay overnight during the Light Up Festival, book many months in advance at www.japaneseguesthouses.com. Popular choices include Koemon and Magoemon farmhouses.

Kenrokuen Garden

Kenrokuen Garden Chotima Sitthichaiviset

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Accommodation is less exciting in Kanazawa, but it is a popular base for those looking to do day trips to nearby towns during busy festival seasons. There are several low-budget accommodation options close by the station like Toyoko Inn. For a traditional stay, look up www.yadotime.jp/english.

Chotima Sitthichaiviset

Starting from the train station, head over to Higashi Chaya District by the Asano River. You can’t miss the beautifully preserved path lined with historic ochaya (teahouses) where geishas entertain their guests. Built back in 1820, Shima House is still open to the public and offers a rare glimpse at a traditional Japanese interior, old housewares and music instruments. Complete the experience with a cup of green tea and traditional dessert (around 700 yen) in the guest room.

Next stop is Kenrokuen Garden (300 yen entry), right by Kanazawa Castle, which is considered one of Japan’s most picturesque gardens, with amazing cherry blossoms in the spring.

It’s also nice in the fall when the leaves turn different shades of red. Not too far away is the striking 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, which exhibits contemporary pieces by local and international artists. Entrance is often free.

In the southern part of the city you’ll find the former military outpost Myoryuji Temple, also known as Ninja Temple.

You can only go inside with a pre-booked tour (in Japanese) to see its secret rooms and hidden passages. The nearby Nagamachi district, or Samurai District, is also a hit with tourists.

To get a feel for the lifestyle of a samurai, enter Nomura-ke House (500 yen), its central attraction.

Hungry? Kanazawa is also famous for its high-quality seafood, so make a stop at Omicho Market, its largest fresh food market with over 200 stalls. Although the market is busiest early in the morning, you can still get fresh oysters, scallops, and sashimi donburi most times of day. Note: many shops are closed on Sundays.

One hot date to jot down is the first Saturday of June, when the Hyakuman-goku Festival sees the town’s annual parade take place with traditionally adorned residents dancing on the main street, and floating lanterns light up the Asanogawa River at night.

Stay

Chotima Sitthichaiviset

GEISHA, NINJAS AND SAMURAIS Kanazawa, a UNESCO City of Crafts and Folk Art, is the compact capital of Ishikawa Prefecture. Known as “Little Kyoto,” it is one of the best-preserved Edo towns in Japan, and offers plenty to explore. Grab a free map from the train station, hop on the tourist loop bus, and you’re good to go. A ride is 200 yen, but we suggest you get a day pass that allows you to hop on and off as many times as you want, available on board at 500 yen.

Shirakawago

Shirakawago

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Chotima Sittichaiviset

Takayama Grégorie Glachant

Grégorie Glachant

Traditional guesthouse

Local Dinner

Access Shirakawago is only accessible from Kanazawa and Takayama via the Nohi Bus that operates a few times a day. Check out the schedule at www.nouhibus.co.jp/ english. There are also day-trip tours covering this region which connect the town to the larger cities in the region.

GIFU HIDA-AWAY Takayama is a mountainous city in the Gifu Prefecture, also known as Hida-Takayama.

Famous for its Autumn and Spring Float Festivals, and delicious hida beef, the city is ideal for exploring on foot.

Do Ten minutes from the JR Train you’ll find Jinya-mae Market, which lines the street in front of the Government House, and the slightly bigger Miyagawa Market on the bank of the Miyagawa River. Starting from 6:30am, both markets sell simple organic produce, pickles, dango snacks and craft products.

The nearby Old Town is a must-see: three historic lanes lined with old homes, small stores selling sake, miso paste, coffee and other traditional delicacies. Be sure to visit Sannomachi Street. If a rickshaw ride is too expensive for you, some hotels do provide bicycle rental.

Essentials GETTING THERE

Thai AirAsia X (www.airasia.com) regularly flies between Bangkok and Kansai Airport, Osaka, with prices starting at B5,450 (one way). Thai Airways and JAL also offer flights. The Airport Limousine Bus from KIX Airport to Osaka city center is available from 6-1:45am at 1,550 yen (B430).

Takayama’s famous hida beef can be found at stalls all over town: on sticks, in buns and in ramen. Another treat you don’t want to miss is the sukune kabocha (pumpkin pudding in black honey) at Le Midi takeaway booth, next to the upscale French restaurant of the same name.

Takayama gets most crowded during Takayama Matsuri, a parade held once in April and once in October, which features beautifully decorated floats. If you just want to get away from it all, take the Higashiyama Walking Path, which takes in many small temples, shrines and old ruins.

Stay Staying at a traditional Japanese ryokan (guesthouse) is a must. In Takayama there are many small family-run ryokans and larger commercial ones. Although on the pricey side, a package stay at the popular Oyado Yamakyu is great as it also houses its own onsen (public hot bath). Take this opportunity to wear a yukata and also indulge in a locally sourced, homemade 10-course Japanese dinner that comes with a delicious hida beef hot pot.

Access Takayama is accessible via the Nohi Bus, with regular trains running from big cities in the region from Kanazawa, to Kyoto and Osaka.

The best way to see these towns is to get the Takayama-Hokuriku 5-Day Tourist Pass at 10,500 yen (B2,950), which gets you unlimited travel on JR trains between Osaka, Kanazawa, Takayama and Nagoya. It also includes bus travel on the Nohi buses to Shirakawago. Available for purchase at Japan travel agencies in Bangkok from now through Jun 30.

EXCHANGE RATE

100 yen = B28 BK Magazine Friday, January 30, 2015

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escapes ESCAPE ROUTES Monruedee Jansuttipan

SAMUI

Beach Cottage

Mith Huang

One of Koh Samui’s oldest and best-loved resorts, Tongsai Bay (077-245-480, www. tongsaibay.co.th), recently revealed its new, slender Pool Cottage Suites. Overlooking the sea, the five 88-98-sq-meter cottages each consist of a private 20-sq-meter plunge pool along with open-air terrace and outdoor bathtub. From Feb 1, rates start at B16,000 per night. If you stay more than five nights in a row, you get a free Thai massage at the on-site spa and a set dinner for two at the hotel’s traditional Thai restaurant.

SAPPORO

Snow Life

The 35th Sapporo International Ski Marathon returns to Japan’s Northern ski town on Feb 1. Taking place at the Sapporo Dome, the event includes 50km and 25km cross-country races as well as 11km, 5km and 3km unofficial compettitions for less hardcore skiers.

Register at tinyurl.com/leeollj.

Held around the same time, The Sapporo Snow Festival (Feb 5-11) is one of Japan’s biggest winter events and will see scores of snow and ice sculptures pop up around Odori Park, the grounds at Tsudome, and the main street in Susukino.

Following that, Otaru Snow Light Path Festival (Feb 6-15) will see thousands of snow lanterns decorate the Otaru Canal, just a 30-minute train ride from Sapporo.

SIEM REAP

Wild Ride After successfully launching Vespa tours in Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City and Hoi An, Vespa Adventures (vespaadventures.com) has now arrived in Siem Reap, where it offers tours of the giant temple complex Angkor Wat. Other rides on offer include the After Dark Foodie Tour and Countryside Life Tour. Trips start from US$95 (B3,100) per person including food, insurance and guide driver.

SINGAPORE

Sharing is Caring Reminiscing about past trips down south? Singapore Tourism Board’s I Remember SG (www.facebook.com/irememberSG) campaign invites you to upload and share photos from your visits to Singapore over the past 50 years, with the most impressive in the running to be added to a commemorative photo book. Those behind the lens stand a chance to win a free trip to Singapore, too. Visit tinyurl.com/njesnvs for guidelines.

AIRLINES

Book and Pack KLM (www.klm.com) just released their latest Pack&Go promotions to some of Europe’s most popular destinations. We had a look and found round flights to Milan starting at B26,070, Barcelona at B26,090, Paris at B28,160 and London at B26,080 including taxes. Book now for travel from Feb-Jul 31. Visit tinyurl.com/me6e7at for the full list of destinations.

Have some cool rooms? Email your news and promotions to travel@asia-city.co.th

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avenue

HOME

In the Headlights Jeeracha Samakhabootra’s home décor brand, Sur, launched at the Made by Legacy flea market (earlier this month) and consists of two main collections of what she calls functional sculptures. The first is Miss Moo is Not a Coward, a cow-shaped fiberglass lamp with light bulbs in place of the head and udder. The second is Mr. Clear Mind, a bearded man’s head that’s cut in half leaving space for a light bulb or even a small plant. All pieces are hand molded and painted, and can also be made to order. Products are priced B2,800-8,000, available at Zerobook Shop (in front of faculty of Architecture, Chulalongkorn University, Phayathai Rd., 089-1236014. Open daily 9am-6pm) or online via fb.com/surandeverything

SHOPPING

BEAUTY

BOOK

Lost & Found

Pretty Pop-Ups

Night Scenes

Winner of the top prize in the Asia Talents section at BIG+BIH 2014, accessories brand Found by Trimode has a new home, women’s multi-label store The Wonder Room. The brand sees Trimode’s lead jewelry designer, Pirada Senivong na Ayudhya, travel to various provinces around Thailand to help local craftspeople contemporize traditional products. Highlight products include Doipui, a modern redesign of a traditional Hmong embroidered hat; Nong Bua Daeng, hand-woven cotton hats and totes colored with natural indigo and ebony dyes; and Nakhon Ratchasima, jewelry made with buffalo, ox and yak horns using metal coating techniques. Now available at The Wonder Room, 3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd. 02-685-7000. BTS Siam

Over the past 12 months, Bangkok has welcomed international multi-label beauty halls Sephora, Karmart and Too Cool for School. Now a group of young Thai investors have launched a traveling beauty store under the name G1 Beauty Hub. The concept is to set up pop-up shops all over Bangkok in residential areas that don’t have big malls as well as next to major universities. Confirmed international brands include Bisous Bisous, Mille and Gucci, plus they say they will focus on many more affordable Thai and Asian brands. The first branch opens on Feb 24 at Bangkok University in Rangsit Campus, with another to follow at Kluay Nam Thai within a few months. For more information, visit www.g1corp.com.

The bookstore Hardcover has recently welcomed the stunning new book by British-based conceptual artist Darren Almond, Fullmoon. The book is a compilation of 260 transcendent photographs of nocturnal landscapes—meadows, mountains, seashores—taken around the world using long exposures of between 12 and 30 minutes. The results are unearthly, and often breathtaking, leading us to question our concepts of time and nature. The book is available in a standard Taschen edition (400 pages, B2,450). 4/F, Central Embassy, 1031 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-160-5977. BTS Phloen Chit

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avenue Muji (B490)

BK PICK!

The material: Body 100% cotton.

Neck 95% cotton; 5% polyester.

This really feels a cut above everything else we tried. Though thick, it still moves beautifully, and hangs effortlessly on the frame.

The fit: On the small side but the proportions are excellently balanced. The sleeves are both a nice length and a comfortable fit, neither wrapping themselves round the arm nor sticking out like shoulder pads.

FASHION

Teeing Off

We go in search for the holy grail of menswear: the perfect plain T-shirt. By Oliver Irvine

H&M Basic (B299) The material: Like the Divided line, 60% cotton and 40% polyester, though 50% of that cotton is apparently organic. It definitely feels different to the Divided T (and the shine is gone), but it too has an elastic-y quality that’s not too comfortable, always feeling like it’s being stretched.

Verdict: A clear winner, though the choice of colors is limited.

The fit: Tight, with very form-hugging sleeves.

In fact it feels more like an undershirt. You’d have to be pretty comfortable with your body to wear this, and going up a size means other problems in shoulder width and length.

H&M Divided (B199)

Verdict: The 33% extra price might please your social conscience, but doesn’t get a nicer T.

The material: 60% cotton; 40% polyester.

This shows: the fabric has a shine to it, while also feeling slightly like latex.

The fit: Bang on the money; not too tight while still showing form in the body and sleeves. The neck ringer is much thicker than the Basic line, though.

Verdict: A passable budget buy.

Uniqlo Supima Cotton (B390 for 2) The material: 100% cotton. Much more durable than Uniqlo’s budget option, and also with a more classic quality—it’s the least stretchy we tried.

The fit: Quite classic. Both the arms and body fit loosely, without hugging anywhere on the frame, but thanks to the quality fabric it still falls naturally. Length is well proportioned to chest width.

Verdict: Good for anyone who wants to disguise a few pounds.

Gap Essential Crewneck (B550) The material: 100% cotton. Though quite thin, this gives it a nice, unstiff, drape-y look.

The fit: Long in relation to the width (easily the longest size S we tried), but the sleeves and neckline are both a nice shape—not too baggy, not too tight. The shoulders also feel very comfortable, with that thin fabric falling smoothly.

Uniqlo Cut & Dry (B190) The material: 77% cotton; 33% polyester.

Straight from the packet (these Ts are vacuum-packed and, once open, non-returnable) it is beautifully soft and hides its polyester underpinnings well. Sadly, this does not last, and after a few washes the T-shirt has severe problems with bobbling and the fabric takes on a stiff, cardboard-like character.

The fit: Small, but actually not bad compared to some of Uniqlo’s other range. A medium is recommended for chest sizes 88-96—we find the smaller end of that more accurate.

The neck is nice and thin, while the armholes shouldn’t embarrass even the puniest of biceps.

Verdict: A nice buy for a few wears.

TTopcollar (B450) The material: 100% cotton and very soft. It’s also thicker than other brands, but still pretty giving.

The fit: The cut from this new local brand is simple, a little looser than your standard size, so a fit for most body shapes.

Verdict: The price is a little bit higher, but you can rest assured you’ll get more than a few wears out of it—plus, there’s the feel-good factor of wearing local.

Verdict: One for the slim Jims.

Essentials Muji. Try 3/F, Central Chidlom, Phloen Chit Rd., 02-793-7777 (ext. 3306). BTS Chidlom H&M. Try 4/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-6738. BTS Siam Uniqlo. Try 1/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-7787. BTS Siam GAP. Try 2/F, Central World, Rajadamri Rd., 02-610-9952. BTS Siam/Chidlom TTopcollar

TTopcollar. J-Avenue Thonglor, Sukhumvit Soi 55, 092-257-4911. BTS Thong Lo

OPEN STORE Six Fathoms Deep The buzz: Nestled down Silom’s colorful, Hindu-centric Pan Road, Six Fathoms Deep is a tattoo studio-slash-outfitters run by a group of tattooists from South Africa, each of whom specialize in different areas of tattoo design.

The décor: The brown-hued square room contains lots of colorful knickknacks and memorabilia from all corners of the world, collected on the owners’ travels. There are Gothic-inspired touches in the form of Roman Catholic imagery and lots of skulls, but it doesn’t at all feel like your usual macabre tattooist; more like the living room of a fun-loving friend.

The services: Co-owners Nicholas Mudskipper and Dillon Pienaar, as well as another three

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tattooist friends—Miss Ink, Matt Adams and David Chaston—cater to both newbies and old-hands. Each tattooist has a different style, with the team is adept at both basic black designs as well as detailed custom jobs, like enormous multi-colored gargoyles and other outrageous caricatures. A one-hour session of tattooing, irrespective of the chosen patterns, costs B3,000, while extra costs depend on the complexity of the design. Walk-ins are welcomed but reservations are preferred. Do note, they don’t take reservations by phone.

Leave a message on their Facebook or Instagram (@six_fathoms_deep), instead.

52/24 Pan Rd. (Soi Wat Khek). Open Tue-Sun 12:30pm-6pm. fb.com/sixfathomsdeep

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avenue DIGITAL

Super Slates

Cheap, extra slim, or “ready to replace your laptop,” here are the best tablets available on the market in Bangkok right now. By Kanin Srimaneekulroj

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Samsung Galaxy Tab S 10.5

Features: Samsung’s flagship tablet comes in beautiful, vibrant colors and is equipped with a Super AMOLED screen that alleviates the need for any backlighting. As a result, it’s among the lightest and thinnest tablets in the market, measuring in at a little over one pound in weight and about a quarter-inch thin.

Good for: General, on-the-go use. A well-rounded tablet for people who prefer Android.

Price: B19,990 Specs: 10.5” 2560 x 1600 Super AMOLED display, octa-core Exynos processor, 3GB RAM, 2.1MP front camera, 8MP rear camera 2

Lenovo Yoga Tablet 2 Pro

Features: Lenovo’s high-end two-in-one tablet doesn’t just look like a laptop; it also works like one. The tablet runs Windows 8.1 on Intel’s Haswell series processors, which are commonly used in the company’s notebook computers, too. The highlight is the screen, though, which is capable of matching the resolution levels seen in high-end laptops such as the Macbook Retina. The tablet comes in a wide range of specs and prices, though we recommend staying away from the cheaper models, which run on Intel’s core-i3 processors rather than the superior core-i5 or i7 of the top-of-the-line models.

Good for: Working outside the office. Versatile use due to foldable keyboard.

Price: B43,990-B46,990 Specs: 13.3” 3600 x 1800 resolution display, Intel Haswell series processor (core-i3 to i7), 8GB RAM, 256GB hard drive, Intel HD Graphics4400 graphics adaptor

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Dell Venue 8

Features: Performance-wise, you get what you pay for, so don’t expect the Venue 8 to compete with heavy-hitters like the iPad any time soon. That said, Dell’s tablet does provide a decent enough package for those on a budget. The processing power is on par with many higher-end competitors, running on Intel’s dual-core Atom processors with 2GB of RAM. The screen is decent at best, providing pleasant natural colors at a passable resolution of 1200 x 800, which is technically higher than even the iPad Mini’s 1024 x 768.

Good for: Basic use, for a significantly lower price than competitors.

Price: B8,000 Specs: 8” 1200 x 800 HD display, Intel Dual-core Atom processor, 2GB RAM, 16-32 GB native storage (with microSD slot), 5MP rear camera 4

Apple iPad Air 2

Features: Commonly lauded as the tablet of choice BK PICK for any and all uses, the Air 2 offers the premium quality performance you would expect from an Apple product. It’s incredible how thin Apple has been able to make the tablet without sacrificing any power, thanks to Apple’s top-ofthe-line A8X processor chips. Swiping through apps is quick and snappy, and the increased processing power allows the tablet to achieve feats like capturing slow-motion videos.

Good for: Excellent product all around, especially if you prefer iOS. Price: B20,000-B28,000 Specs: 9.7” 2048 x 1536 LED display, A8X 64-bit processor, 2GB RAM, integrated Intel graphics adapter

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Microsoft Surface Pro 3

OFFICE

WORK Features: Another choice for anyone looking for a PICK two-in-one tablet with the guts of a laptop. Running on Intel’s Haswell processors commonly seen in laptops, with up to 8GB of RAM, the tablet can run PC-level applications with few problems. The Windows 8.1 operating system also allows you to install and use Windows-compatible programs, making the Surface Pro 3 a great choice for those looking for a light and portable alternative to laptops. The flimsy keyboard cover isn’t the greatest, and it’s actually sold separately, but it’s still better than a lot of competitors and practically a must-have if you wish to use the tablet to its full potential.

Good for: This reliable and convenient machine is suited to working as well as general use.

Price: B29,500-B69,900 Specs: 12” 2160 x 1440 LCD display, Intel Haswell series processor (core-i3 to i7), 4-8GB RAM, 64-512GB hard drive 6

Asus Transformer Book T200

BUDGET

Features: The most impressive feature of this hybrid PICK is perhaps the very friendly price, which is under half that of many of its competitors. That said, the Intel quad-core Atom processor still ensures that the performance of this convertible tablet is at least up to par with its more costly counterparts from other brands. The screen is also a step above products in the same price range, so it should at least be a competitive choice for anyone who wants a no-nonsense Windows 8 machine for work and play.

Good for: Portable work, play, and everything in between.

Price: B14,500 Specs: 11.6” 1366 x 768 display, quad-core Intel Atom Processor, 2GB RAM, 5MP camera, 32GB hard drive (SD card compatible)

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bites & blends

BAR

Born Again The Mandarin Oriental hotel’s Bamboo Bar has gone through its first renovation in 18 years.

Created by leading Bangkok design studio P49, the new look maintains the bar’s lovably kitsch touches—tiger-print upholstery, wicker chairs—but the whole thing looks a lot moodier, with acres of laquered dark wood and a mirrored ceiling. What’s more, mixologist Mirko Gardelliano, formerly of Water Library, has joined the team. His new creations incorporate nods to The Oriental’s heritage, like in the high-tea-inspired Jam Tea Time (B490), a mix of Eros Mariage Freres tea-infused gin, rose jam, lime juice and ginger syrup, served with a scone. More classic is the Bamboo Bar Negroni (caramel gin, Africa-formula vermouth and Campari, B490), which comes with a coffee tiramisu macaron. There’s also a list of barrel-aged cocktails that started fermentation in June, 2014. L/F Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, 48 Oriental Avenue, Charoenkrung Soi 40, 02-659-9000.

Open Sun-Thu 5pm-1am and Fri-Sat 5pm-2am.

POP-UP

JAPANESE FOOD

NEW RESTAURANT

Sensory Overload

Market Fresh

Double Serving

If you like the idea of challenging your taste buds by eating in total darkness, but can’t quite stump up the cash for Dine in the Dark, I’m Blind might be the new dining experience for you. The pop-up restaurant, set to run through April, aims to deprive you of your sense of sight in order to heighten your other five senses.

Choose from their Japanese, Thai or vegetarian options (all at B990), then simply let your visually-impaired waiters lead the way. Part of the profits go towards helping the blind. The Sense Pinklao, 71/50 Baromrajchonnee Rd., 081-884-4031

We’d hardly call Nippon Kai one of our favorite Japanese restaurants in town, but the company behind the chain (six branches and counting) is a big importer of Japanese produce. We believe they’re on the right track with the opening of Nippon Kai Market.

The two-story building consists of a sushi bar and Japanese market on the first floor where you can buy premium imported seafood either to take home or have the chef whip up right there. The second floor is a dedicated dining area that serves a high recommended tonkatsu curry rice (B190). 9:53 Community Mall, Thonglor Soi 9, 02-662-5683

Since opening at Central Embassy last September, Ippudo’s lines have shown little sign of shortening. Now the ramen chain, helmed by three-time TV Champion chef Shigemi Kawahara, has opened a second Bangkok branch, at the new-look Emporium.

The Hakata-style tonkotsu ramen comes in three variations: the traditional and delicate Shiromaru Motoaji (B200), the intense miso-and-garlic-flavored Akamaru Shinaji (B220), and the spicy Karaka-men (B220). We’re also partial to the Ippudo glazed pork bun (B80) with melt-in-your mouth chashu. 4/F, Emporium, 622 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-259-8725. BTS Phrom Phong

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blends

Moose

BARS

On Repeat

Bangkok’s best bars with consistently good soundtracks.

By Vasachol Quadri Happy Monday

Moose

Shades of Retro

Run by the team behind the dearly-missed Cosmic Café, Moose is not nearly as gig-focused, but does see DJs spinning eclectic sets daily. The soundtrack covers all bases from Britpop, 60s-80s rock and electro-pop to fresh new indie bands you haven’t heard before. The terrace makes for a frightfully hip place to shoot the breeze along with spicy Thai-inter fusion dishes and simple but tasty cocktails. Make sure you drop by for their daily 5-8pm happy hour deal for buy-one-get-one-free cocktails.

This retro furniture shop-slash-bar has hosted many a vinyl-focused music event. But on a normal night, it remains one of our favorite places for a soundtrack of oldies jazz and rock, even if it’s often drowned out by the drunken chatter. The owner Aman “Boy” Tatuho has an anything-goes approach to the playlist that rather matches the décor. Drop by at 4pm-8pm daily for halfprice beers, plus their burgers, which a few Thonglorites rate as some of the best around.

24 Ekkamai Soi 21, 02-108-9550. Open daily 5pm-1am. BTS Ekkamai

808/12, Thonglor Soi 18/2, 02-174-9450. Open daily 4pm-1am. BTS Thong Lo

Happy Monday This longstanding Ekkamai spot is just the place for an afterwork drink. The soundtrack mirrors the retro record covers that line the walls and owner’s love of power-pop and early-90s rock with just a sprinkling of jazz—it’s all guaranteed to have you busily clicking away at your Shazam while you pass around that bottle of Sang Som. Ekkamai Shopping Mall, Ekkamai Soi 10, 02-714-3953. Open Mon-Sat 7am-midnight. BTS Ekkamai

Not content with unearthing mo lam and luk thung gems with his Paradise Bangkok nights, DJ Maft Sai’s bar pairs global grooves with quality ya dong. Named after his radio podcasts-turned-record-label, the venue’s focus is unsurprisingly on nightly adventurous DJ sets and live music. We dig the stylish clientele, the after-hours vibe and, the star of the place, the specially designed custom tube sound system that pumps out everything from psychedelic Persian rock to Swahili jazz.

Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. Open Tue-Sun 6pm-1am. BTS Thong Lo

Bangkok Bar On top of daily cover bands (every Wednesday it’s the Fab Four) and special guest DJs, this laidback rooftop bar packs an ever-rewarding playlist of indie pop/rock, dream pop and electro. It’s decked out in a slightly industrial style, with bare cement and steel as well as long wooden tables and gentlemanly leather sofas. The spacious outdoor terrace used to be great for shisha.

8/F, Opus Building, Thonglor Soi 10, 02-713-8581. Open Mon-Sat 5pm-2am. BTS Thong Lo

Studio Lam

Barrie Wilson, Diageo Reserve Global Brand Ambassador Why is it that bad gins taste so bad?

You are obviously drinking the wrong gin. A great gin should awaken the palate and refresh the senses. Gin has a fantastic heritage that makes it an interesting friend to have. It can tell great stories. It is also a very mixable spirit so you can make lots of great cocktails and refreshing serves.

What are some of your favorite tonics?

Personally I love Fever-Tree as it has the perfect balance of taste and fizz. There are many out there but a perfect tonic should complement the gin and not overpower it.

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Shades of Retro

This dive bar could not be more different from the high-rise luxury condos and former-It-spot restaurants that surround it. Your best bet is to order a bottle. Go ghetto with 300ml of Sang Som for a measly B260––enough to see you through the evening without opening your wallet again. A soundtrack that remains firmly stuck on 90s Britpop might not suit everyone, but guarantees some good drunken singalongs.

Sukhumvit Soi 16, 080-264-4471. Open Tue-Sat 9pm-2am. BTS Asoke

Studio Lam

Q&A

Bar 23

Bar 23

It’s not easy finding anything else apart from Schweppes here in Bangkok. How would you work around that, in a pinch?

Schweppes is a solid tonic but I would recommend using it in small bottles or cans. A simple alternative is the Tom Collins, using fresh lemon, sugar and soda as a substitute for tonic.

What’s an unusual pairing for gin that you think works wonders but people haven’t heard of?

Over Christmas I was drinking Tanqueray gin with mulled hot cider. It’s a lovely drink but only in the freezing winter. For the summer, I

would recommend fresh grapefruit and salt, it ticks every taste bud on your tongue What’s your signature drink and why is it awesome?

The Angel Face Martini: 25ml Tanqueray, 25ml apricot liqueur, 25ml calvados. Stir together and serve in a chilled martini glass. This has rich fruit and fresh juniper notes making it a complex beast of a drink that has a sophisticated feel. By Grégoire Glachant

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Mad Moa

ROUNDUP

Top Dogs

Bangkok’s never had so many hot dog options.

Here are our favorite spots to get a handful of the good stuff. by Natcha Sanguankiattichai Bangers

Bangers

Hot Dogs and Buns

This Thonglor shop-house is synonymous with sau- BK PICK sages and frankfurters. It’s plain to see why: pillow-soft buns, proper sausages from the likes of Sloane’s, and other ingredients from serious local suppliers. Hot dogs range from the straightforward New York classic (beef frankfurter, sauerkraut and mustard, B150) to the creative Bombay Bangers (B180) which includes tikka spices, cucumber-mint raita, grilled onion and mango-ginger chutney. Best slurped up with a creamy vanilla shake (B140 or 180).

Even though they now have a fixed spot at Esplanade Ratchadapisek, you can still regularly find the Hot Dogs and Buns cart at markets and food fests. Of their American-style hot dogs, we recommend the classic New York Dog (B125) and the gourmet chili cheese dog (B145)— the sausage is tasty, while the chili on top adds some serious kick.

They boast that their sausages are made from grass-fed beef, happy pigs and pastured poultry.

159/10 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), across from Eight Thonglor, 02-3921556. Open Mon-Sat noon-1am; Sun noon-midnight. BTS Thong Lo

Slider Shack

Mad Moa The tiki-themed bar does some pretty awesome Amer- BK PICK ican pub grub. Chief among our favorite dishes is the Mad Moa hot dog (B220), which combines a bun from Pollen (the same supplier as Seven Spoon) and a munchy pork sausage with their special salsa mayo. Pair it with one of the under-the-counter home-brewed beers from Udomsuk Brewing (B140) 22-25, Chakkaphatdi Phong Rd., 085-155-2601. Open Tue-Sun 6pm-midnight

Superbdog Following the closure of its stall at BTS Nana, Superbdog has opened a new counter on the ground floor of Park Ventures Ecoplex. The store on Sukhumvit Soi 53 remains, too, with some changes to the menu.

They specialize in New York-style hot dogs using premium quality beef, pork and chicken frankfurters with no preservatives added. Try the best-seller Yankee Dog (chili, Wisconsin cheese, mustard and diced onion, B120) or build your own hot dog starting at B80 for a bun and a sausage, plus B20 per topping.

Sukhumvit Soi 53, across Bangkok Prep International School, 087-093-9646.

Open daily 11am-10pm. BTS Thong Lo G/F, Park Ventures Ecoplex, Ploenchit Rd., 095-576-4026. Open daily 10am-8pm. BTS Phloen Chit

Corn Dog Dude You’ll find this trailer truck parked right in front of Srinakharinwirot University’s entrance 3, which connects with Sukhumvit Soi 31. Beside their homemade corn dogs (starting at B75), they also serve delicious hot dogs, with options ranging from the plain baconwrapped hot dog (B95) to chilli cheese (B110) and pizza dog (B110).

Sukhumvit Soi 31, 087-710-6818. Open daily 7am-7pm

Hip Hot Dog and Burgers

B/F, Esplanade, Ratchadaphisek Rd. 084-098-1985. Open daily 11am-10pm

Previously known as the BBQ Sandwich King in Soi Samakhee, this small American-style diner moved to Nichada, rebranded itself and launched a longer menu. Try their salad-on-top Chicago Dog (all-beef hot dog, yellow mustard, sweet green relish, yellow onions, tomato wedges, pickle spears and spicy peppers, B260) or Coney Island Chili Dog (B240). We really love their pickles and their tater tots (nugget-shaped hashbrowns), served with all dogs.

Superbdog

33/1 Samakhee Soi 29, 086-773-4140. Open Wed-Mon 10:30am-9:30pm

Foodstop The yellow truck in front of J Avenue offers an alternative hot dog experience. Its specialty is Danish dogs, namely rød pølse (B180), in which a long and crispy sausage is served in a bun with mustard, ketchup, imported remoulade sauce, and chopped and fried onions. They also do variations including a French hot dog (B170) in a baguette, salsa dog (B200) and curry dog (B200).

Foodstop

J Avenue, Thonglor Soi 15, 061-402-4484. www.fb.com/foodstopth

Hip Hot Dog and Burger This truck specializes in, you guessed it, hot dogs and burgers. The regular dog, coming in at measly B70, features a homemade pork sausage, onion, ketchup and their original sauce, while the flagship Hip Hot Dog (B95) is topped with chili. Other special ingredients such as mushroom or foie gras are available occasionally. Catch them at The Walk Nawamintr on Tuesday and Thursday nights and other locations like Ramkhamhaeng airport rail link. Do check their Facebook for locations.

090-810-9995. ow.ly/DIvo9

Corn Dog Dude

BK Magazine Friday, January 30, 2015

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1/26/15 6:55 PM

bites

OPEN DOOR

Sumi Tei

A new high-end yakiniku spot that serves wagyu fit for royalty.

The buzz: The team behind the donburi (rice with toppings) chain Chounan have collaborated with a logistics firm who supposedly have links to the Japanese royal family to open a premium yakiniku restaurant. The star attraction? The so-called imperial wagyu.

The décor: The sizeable dining room is, like so many Japanese restaurants, dominated by wood. There’s lots of space between tables, so you won’t get too much of other people’s smoke in your hair, while wooden partitions offer more privacy. They also have three standalone rooms that can accommodate groups of up to 10 people without extra charge.

The food: Sumi Tei serves a wide range of meats, from local ThaiFrench beef to melt-in-your-mouth A5-grade wagyu. To assure you

24

that everything’s legit. They provide along with your wagyu a certificate stating your beef’s identification number and the name of the farm it came from. There are three categories in the menu— premium (starting at B240), super premium (starting at B360) and imperial (starting at B860)­—with popular cuts like karubi, sirloin, zabuton and some entrails. To try various cuts, opt for one of the sets (starting at B980). Tasting portions for the imperial wagyu (starting at B680) also represent fairly good value for money. At a more lofty B1,980, the imperial wagyu karubi is beautifully marbled, heavenly tender and well matched with their special-recipe sauce. All pork and chicken are sourced locally, while seafood is a mixture of imported and local produce. The restaurant also serves some Korean-style rice dishes, Japanese ramen, salads, soups and desserts.

The drinks: Their small bar comprises sake starting at B380 per glass, with sparkling sake going for B980 per 300ml bottle. Draft Asahi starts at B120. They also have wheat (starting B140/glass), sweet potato (starting B160/glass) and shiso shochu (B1,880/bottle), plus Japanese whiskey at (B110/glass). Wines start at B1,280 a bottle, and umeshu (plum wine) at B1,380/bottle.

The crowd: Japanese expats on an after-work binge, and groups of tabletop barbecue enthusiasts. Natcha Sanguankiattichai 9:53 Community Mall, Thonglor Soi 9, 02-662-5818. Open daily 5-11pm

Exclusive privileges for Citibank credit card members.

Get 50% discount for imperial wagyu when spending every B500/sales slip on food only (Today-15 Mar 15) Get 10% discount on food only (Today-30 Nov 15)

BK Magazine Friday, January 30, 2015

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1/26/15 6:57 PM

Once Upon a Milkshake

TABLE TALK Craberman

Wicked

20/95 Sukhumvit Soi 49/1, 02-662-6964. Open Tue-Sun 9am-8pm.

NEW AND NOTED

Cut the Crab

Inspired by American-style crab houses, the rustic-looking Craberman (Mahatun Plaza, Phloen Chit Rd., 092-420-9999) aims to be a new home for seafood lovers serving simple dishes done right. Fresh oysters are B720 for a dozen, while steamed crab (B700/kg) comes in one of four seasoning choices. River prawns start at B1,250/kg and can be served grilled or fried with garlic and pepper. Note: seafood is only available for dinner. The restaurant does Southern-style kao gaeng at lunch.

Shake it Off

Following the big Hainanese chicken and kaya toast imports, Singaporean premium milkshake chain Once Upon a Milkshake (G/F, Siam Paragon, Rama I Rd., 02-610-7599) has also made it to Bangkok. Boasting of super-thick creaminess, their milkshakes are all blends of soft-serve ice cream and milk—yes,

Elysian Tea House and Garden

they're ice free! Shakes range from the classic strawberry (B69/ B89) and premium butterscotch (B89/B119) to the refreshing bubblegum (B119/B149) and more exciting, boozy Baileys (B119/B149).

Something Wicked

Spring Summer’s celebrity owner and chef Phol Tantasathien has opened his second restaurant in Siam Square. Wicked (5/F, Siam Square One, Rama 1 Rd., 02-252-2410) serves Phol's creative fusion dishes, including some favorites from Spring Summer such as taco cheese tom yum kung (B210) and see krong moo tong harm (grilled pork ribs with fried potatoes, B250). Try sud yord kao moo daeng (B220), a premium version of Chinese roasted pork featuring ribs served with rice and boiled egg. Dessert highlights include the Bla Bla (B170)—a deconstructed banoffee pie with banana choco panna cotta. Natcha Sanguankiattichai

Elysian Tea House has 3 unique seating areas. Enjoy the English library with a garden terrace or the Moroccan-Mediterranean inspired room. Order their original organic house blends such as Tia which is green tea base with dried orange peel and jasmine.

The patisseries served is made in house with unique compositions from their own chef. An afternoon tea set is B200 - B250. Try their wonderful croissant menu that offers both savoury and sweet options (starting at B110).

Exclusive Privilages for Citibank credit cardmembers.

Get 15% discount for Citibank Ultima, Preferred, and Select. Get 10% discount for other card types (Today – 31 Oct 15)

To redeem your favorite dining vouchers, please visit www.citirewards.com.

Simply click “Thailand” and then “Gift voucher”

BK Magazine Friday, January 30, 2015

BB_NNOD_575_Jan30_15_NEW.indd 25

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1/26/15 6:57 PM

bites & blends DINING NEWS

Events Urban Eatery To be held every fourth weekend of the month, this new foodie market promises international dishes, mini cafes, handicrafts, clothing, home decor and more in a vintage garden atmosphere.

Jan 31-Feb 1, 10am-10pm. K Village, Sukhumvit Soi 26

Park Society Terrace From 8-11pm every Saturday this February, meet The Voice Thailand’s Buntita “Natt” Prachamorn on her jazz performance with tapas starting B120 and get two complimentary glasses of wine every 5 plates ordered.

Sofitel So Bangkok, 2 Sathorn Nua Rd., 02-624-0000

Hemingway’s From 12pm-8pm, Sat-Sun, all house spirits are just B100. Come between 4-6pm on Tues for half price on all small plates.

Summer Street

Flavor Food Fest A food festival boasting Bangkok’s favorite food trucks, Instagram shops and popular vendors, including the likes of Foodstop, Surface, Mad Moa and Summer Street, with local and international DJs spinning vinyl and live band sessions of soul, jazz and funk. Held at Warehouse 26, opposite K Village.

Jan 31-Feb 1, 10am-10pm. Warehouse 26, Sukhumvit Soi 26

Bangkok Beer Week A whole week for beer lovers as Mikkeller celebrates its first anniversary with exclusive new bottles and 50 taps from popular breweries around the world. Get tickets to the Keg Party on Feb 6-7 at http://ow.ly/GQW7b, which includes 50 free flow beers, a branded tasting glass and an event shirt for the first 50 purchase. B1,200 for advanced reservations, B1,500 at the door.

Through Feb 7, 12pm. Mikkeller, 26 Ekamai Soi 10, 02-381-9891.

Happy Hours Perfume: Fragrance Bar and Aromatic Cuisine Need a reason to head back to this molecular-centric bar? They just launched a buy-one-get-one-free deal on cocktails, local beer and wine by the glass, from 5-9pm every day.

Ei8ht Thonglor, Sukhumvit Soi 55. 02-7148071. Open daily 10pm-1am. BTS Thong Lo

Woo Bar W Hotel Bangkok’s signature Woo Bar confirms that after work drinking is hot with a buy-one-get-one-free deal on all wine, beer and cocktails (Mon-Thu 5-9pm). That’s not all; on Friday, ladies get free-flow sparkling wine from 7:309:30pm. Both promotions run through Mar 31.

L/F, W Hotel Bangkok, 106 Sathorn Rd. 02-344-4000. Open daily 9am-midnight.

BTS Chong Nonsi

Wanderlust This compact rooftop bar on Thonglor Soi 13 has launched the new Back to Bangkok promotion, which offers buytwo-get-one-free on all draught and bottled beer (Mon-Wed, all night).

Through Feb 28.

5/F, Nakiya Japanese Restaurant Building, Thonglor Soi 13. 088-696-9445. Open daily 5pm-2am

THE BITE & BLENDS NEWSLETTER 26

Advertise your business with us ­ starting from B5,000

Sukhumvit Soi 14, 02-653-3900. Open daily 11:3-am-1am. BTS Asok

Deals Gin Palace Tuesdays Gin connoisseurs can enjoy a tasting flight of Spanish ‘Gin Tonicas’ with three specially-handpicked gins each week and specialty gin cocktail menu (all at B280) every Tuesday 5pm-midnight at Vesper.

Email sales@asia-city.co.th or call 026249601

10/15 Convent Rd., 02-235-2777. BTS Saladaeng

Third Anniversary Celebration Sofitel So Bangkok celebrates its third anniversary from Feb1-Apr30. Get 33% discount on food and beverage every Wednesday at Red Oven, Park Society, and Chocolab.

Sofitel So Bangkok, 2 Sathorn Nua Rd., 02-624-0000. MRT Lumpini

New Venues

22 Kitchen & Bar Dusit Thani’s new 22/F restaurant is nothing like the refined French eatery it replaces—think Pacific coastal cuisine.

22/F, Dusit Thani Hotel, Rd., 946 Silom Rd., 02-200-9000. Open daily 4pm-midnight.

MRT Silom

Coming Soon in March

22 Kitchen & Bar

Khao The new chef’s table restaurant by Mandarin Oriental’s Sala Rim Naam former chef, serving Thai cuisine with a modern presentation.

Who’s going to make the cut this year?

Sign up for Bites & Blends e-newsletter to get more updates

64 Sukhumvit Soi 51, 098-829-8878. Open Tue-Sun 6:30-11pm.

www.bkmagazine.com/ newsletters

Yoichi Nikka This high-end addition to the great array of Japanese bars around Sukhumvit Soi 39 specializes in the very best Japanese whiskey, served in a solemnly lit, moody environment.

6/11 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-662-4270. Open Mon-Sat 6pm-2am

Paintbar Bangkok A new bar that lets you sip your drinks and enjoy painting on a real canvas.

46/4 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 081- 6126105. Open Tue-Sat 2:30-11:30pm; Sun 10:30am-6:30pm

The latest updates on Bangkok’s dining scene www.bkmagazine.com/newsletters

BK Magazine Friday, January 30, 2015

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bites FOOD REVIEWS

Sfizio HHHH Italian. 44/4 Sukhumvit Soi 21 (Asoke), 02-2620405. Open Tue-Sun 11:30am-4pm, 6-10:30pm.

BTS Asoke/MRT Sukhumvit. BB-BBB

On paper, Sfizio sounds a lot like Pala Romana: they both have a deli counter, they both cure their pizza dough for 72 hours, they’re both in Asoke. But the new boy in town still manages to do its own thing. Laid out galley-style, with a long bench seat stretching from one side of the space to the other, it definitely feels more like a café than a restaurant, but still, the care, thought and flavor packed into the brief menu (little more than salads, starters, pastas and pizzas) is right up there with the crema of Bangkok’s homey Italian New Wa v e — w e ’ r e t a l k i n g A p p i a a n d Peppina, here. Take the Romana salad (B260): fatty lardons of crisp pig cheek, sharp artichoke hearts and walnuts, all doused in olive oil and served with plenty of greens. It’s definitely not the

Sushi Tsukiji HHHH Japanese. 62/19-20 Soi Thaniya, Silom Rd., 02-233-9698. Open daily 11:30am-2pm; 5:3011pm. BTS Sala Daeng. BB-BBB

Named after the famed Tokyo fish market, the specialty here is sashimi and sushi. The clientele is mostly Japanese salarymen, and although the place bears an affiliation with the Fuji chain, this is the original founder’s first restaurant in Bangkok and operates on a whole other level to the ubiquitous mall restaurants under the Fuji brand.

The gray granite décor is suitably bland, while the staff—no-nonsense kimono-clad waitresses and a halfdozen sushi itamae —includes its fair share of seasoned pros. The sushi bar and four-seat booths downstairs are replaced by private rooms with blond wood and tatami seating upstairs, to accommodate larger parties. Much of Tsukiji’s popularity can be traced back to its sushi set lunch, which was stuck

Ratings

Price guide

PPPP Forget it PPPP Only if you’re in the neighborhood PPPP A pleasant dining experience PPPP Not to be missed

B BB BBB BBBB

BK pays for its meal and does not call ahead or sit with the chef.

most delicate dish in the world, but boy does it pack some flavor. Things go from good to great with the potato gnocchi in wild boar ragout with smoked ricotta cheese (B360). It eats as well as it reads thanks to the earthy, rich, stew-y ragout and unctuous g n o cc h i . A g a i n , i t ’ s n o t ex a c t l y elegant—a symphony of brown, topped by a visible film of fat—but with flavors this bold, you don’t really care. And then there’s the pizza, which in its simplest , Margarita form (B240), competes on the same, fluffy, charredcrust footing as Peppina—yup, that tasty. Our only real gripe is that, in contrast to the simple pleasure of that wild boar ragout, there’s a fancy touch to some of what they do—sauces brushed onto dishes, sorbets served in little columns and salads plated in knowingly asymmetrical lines. It doesn’t really need any of this, but rest assured it’s not at the expense of flavor. This is a restaurant that makes you wish it was in your neighborhood: friendly, well priced and, for the most part, totally unpretentious. Judging from the clientele, the local Italian crowd think so, too.

at a sub-B200 price point for years. It’s now been jacked up to B297 but remains a solid deal, alongside the crispy, non-oily tempura set (B297). In fact, Tsukiji’s tempura is some of the best in town. At these prices, don’t expect A-grade sushi, though; you’ll have to go à la carte for Tsukiji’s best catches. The chef’s sashimi selection (two slices of Japanese amberjack , squid, salmon, tuna, fatty tuna and shrimps, B1,200) is a good introduction to how fresh and masterfully cut their fish is. The chunks are prepared in the more reasonable sizes of yesteryear, not the massive slabs that have become the trend, but it’s still very good bang for your buck. We’re less impressed with the sushi, simply because the rice is a bit too dry and compact. Nor do any of the creative dishes—the flounder’s edge sitting on sushi pressed into cubes (B450), or the seabass topped with ponzu sauce (B240)—really work. So many Japanese expats can’t be wrong, but Tsukiji is now more like a reasonably priced canteen for businessmen than the culinary leader it once was.

Under B500 B500-900 B900-1,500 B1,500 and up Price per person, including one drink, appetizer, main course, dessert, charges and tax.

s Know ok Bangk Best

All you need to know about what’s new in Bangkok in just one click New Events, New Openings, New Restaurants and much much more!

It’s Free Symbols

H Reservations recommended F Parking available E Dress requirements G Live music

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BK Magazine Friday, January 30, 2015 FP BK-Now.indd 1

BB_Food_Reviews_575_Jan30_15.indd 27

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1/26/15 7:04 PM

now All You Can Eat

Run this Town

Foodies have it good this weekend, with a couple of new epicurean markets to visit. Urban Eatery has been confirmed to take place every fourth weekend of the month at K Village, replacing the Bangkok Farmers’ Market which has gone to pastures new. The new kid on the block promises international food and crafts in a laidback garden atmosphere from 10am onwards. This weekend, Jan 31-Feb 1, also sees the Flavor Food Fest take place just on the other side of the road (Warehouse 26), with a much-hyped vendor line-up including Foodstop, Surface, Mad Moa and Summer Street, from 3pm onwards.

See HAPPENINGS, page 32.

Did you get your ticket? One of the most keenly-contested runs of the year, BITEC Half Marathon 2015, takes place this Sunday, Feb 1, over three courses: 21.1km, 10.5km and 5km. See HAPPENINGS, page 32

City of Jazz There’s yet more jazz coming your way this week .

The seventh edition of the Thailand International Jazz Conference kicks off this Friday, Jan 30, with day-time workshops and e v e n i n g p e r f o r m a n ce s across three days. See MUSIC, page 30.

Berlin Beats This Saturday, Jan 31, Mancunian DJ Trus’me, the guy behind the influential Prime Numbers label, will return to Glow to spin some house and techno cuts. The DJ has been keeping himself busy, having just played at the Super 0 Open Air Festival in Singapore, and will be hitting Dubai just a day ahead of his Bangkok gig. See NIGHTLIFE, this page.

Contain Yourself The outdoor fashion-focused Container Market is back again this year in its original venue this weekend, Jan 31-Feb 1. Enjoy the last of the winter breeze, with while browsing a hodgepodge of clothes, crockery, food, drinks and garden supplies. See HAPPENINGS, page 32

NIGHTLIFE DJ Afrika Islam + Wasabi Bytes Live Hip-hop and electro DJ Afrika Islam plays an eclectic set, with local support by Wasabi Bytes. The Thai electronica duo's single "Rage of the Machine" was produced by the DJ himself last year. 50 free Afrika and Wasabi CDs will be on offer. Jan 30, 8pm. The Overground Bar & Cafe, 6/1 Sukhumvit Soi 22, 081-701-7664. Free.

15 Years of Homebass - Reunion Party!

DJ Tall Sasha

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A reunion party for lovers of the early Thai Dn'B scene, featuring the collective's DJs Pichy, OneEyeWen and Dragon, and MCs Tul Sinamon and Abu. Jan 30, 10pm. Grease, Opposite

Villa Supermarket, 46/12-13 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-662-6120-1. Free.

The War is On presents "The War Is Over" The Rap Is Now collective presents a DJ lineup of 93 Flow, Jahrom, AR1, Battle X4, Sos x None, Raw Uncut + Sir Poppa Lott, Battle 3rd, Jayrun, Battle 1st and ThaBeatLounge DJ. Jan 31, 8pm. Wine Bibber Sangria, Ekamai Soi 2, 02-714-0709. B300 (one free drink). BTS Ekkamai.

DJ Tall Sasha at Rockademy The rock music school hosts a special night of deep-tech and progressive house with San Francisco DJ/producer Tall Sasha. Local support from the school's very own The Failed Horsemen, who will be thrashing out covers of

Metallica and Motorhead to kick off the night.

Jan 31, 9pm. Rockademy, A-Square (next to Flow House, opposite K-Village), Sukhumvit Soi 26. 02-261-3833. B500 (one free drink).

Berlin Beats welcomes Trus'me The collective brings Manchester DJ Trus'me and Bangkok DJ The Outsider together for a night of Berlin techno/house sounds. B300 before midnight and for students with a valid ID. Jan 31, 10pm. Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-261-3007, 02-261-4446. B400 one free drink. MRT Sukhumvit.

Nakadia @ Glow Bangkok Nakadia spins deep house and techno. Jan 30, 10pm. Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-261-3007, 02-261-4446. B400 (one free drink.) MRT Sukhumvit.

BK Magazine Friday, January 30, 2015

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1/26/15 7:06 PM

Evolver 31/01/15 After a two-month break, the party crew hosts a night of hip-hop, garage, grime, bassline and dn'b, featuring resident DJs Jodie Foster, Vincent Smith and v.e.g.a. Cheap drinks deals as usual at the Phra Athit bar. Jan 31, 10pm. Dickinson's Culture Cafe, 64 Phra Athit Rd., 089-497-8422. Free.

Phatfunk Drum&Bass feat. Trouble (Dread) This month's drum & bass night features Brighton-based DJ Trouble, of the duo Maniac & Trouble, with support from resident DJs Orawan, Azek, DeLorean and Instinct. Feb 6, 9pm. Glow, 96/45 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-261-3007, 02-261-4446.

B350 (one free drink). MRT Sukhumvit.

Marvin Hey @ Ocean Basement Ocean Basement's new Electro Friday night, featuring the Berlin DJ. Feb 6, 10pm. Ocean Urban Lounge and Boutique Resort, 7 Sukhumvit Soi 33, 02-261-2800.

Tools 4 School with Dave Vega (Bpitch Control/Get Physical) The house and techno DJ performs, with support from Sunju Hargun, ahead of the March release of his full EP. Feb 6, 10pm. Grease, Opposite Villa Supermarket, 46/12-13 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-6626120-1. B300 (one Singha Light).

Vacancy #15

concept store Moumi. Spend over B1,000 at the store to receive an entry wristband. Feb 14, 8pm.

Grease, Opposite Villa Supermarket, 46/12-13 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-662-6120-1. B1,000.

This Wild Life Live in Bangkok Live House Studio brings the Californian acoustic pop-punk duo to Bangkok. Special limited presale package tickets to see the show + New Found Glory Live in Bangkok (Feb 10) at B2,100. Ticket reservations at 081-930-3633. Feb 17, 7pm. JJ Green, 110/46 Lad Phrao Soi 18, 086-331-5657-8.

B1,200. BTS Mo Chit.

Hostess Club Bangkok The first Bangkok edition of the Japan-born music festival presents a bumper line-up of Belle and Sebastian, Caribou and Tune-Yards (Feb 19), The Thurston Moore Band, Temples and Real Estate (Feb 20). Feb 19-20, 8pm. Muang Thai GMM Live House, 8/F, CentralWorld, 999/1 Rama 1 Rd. B1,000-1,800 from Thaiticketmajor.

BTS Chit Lom.

Plastic Section Album Launch The Bangkok rock band unveils its new album, Combination Special, with a guest live performance by Triggs & the Longest Day and DJ Tat and DJ Plastic spinning vinyl. Feb 21, 8pm.

Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833.

Free. BTS Surasak.

The party collective brings good vibes and great company to the indie venue, with Japanese DJs Moola, ESCB, TEP and Gaolao. Feb 7, 6pm. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833. Free. BTS Surasak.

Take me to the MoonRock

Stereo Saturdays Presents Shiba San

concerts

DJ/producer Shiba San spins his signature bassheavy ghetto funk and deep house in the Club Lounge, with support from resident DJs Eddy Frampton, Kimball Collins and Tommi Nori. Feb 7, 9pm. Ku Bar (Ku De Ta), 39 & 40/F, Sathorn Square, 98 North Sathorn, 02-108-2000. B400 (one free drink). BTS Chong Nonsi.

Caribou: The Longest Mixtape Party Edition Party organizer welcome.deaf will spin cuts from Caribou's recent 1,000-song playlist ahead of the Canadian electronic artists' appearance at the upcoming Hostess Club Bangkok. Feb 13, 9pm. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833. BTS Surasak.

Mario & Thabo Getsome The Inhale Exhale party series this year welcomes Mario Aureo and Thabo Getsome, plus local support from Moodwax and Boris Rubin. Expect to hear house, techno and electronica. Feb 20, 9:30pm. Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-2613007, 02-261-4446. B400 (one free drink). MRT Sukhumvit.

MUSIC

gigs Burkhard Beins Live at Zoo The Berlin-based experimental artist brings his unique percussion act to Bangkok. Jan 30, 8pm.

Zoo, 19 Prachathipatai Rd., 02-629-3376.

Young Indies by Get out from the Encircle The indie art space gathers new and upcoming acts to perform as part of its new project to promote non-mainstream music. The debut gig features Mrs. Linda, Blues Tape, Dead Flowers, World Not Bad, Follows and special guests Song from Yesterday and Chickenwings. Jan 31, 7pm. 80 CM Space, Room 582/6, 2/F, Plus Project Store, Sukhumvit Soi 63 (Ekkamai), 090-325-6161. B150.

Live music by five alternative indie bands: Inspirative, Kinetic, Count the Thief, Fits and Follows.

Feb 26, 8pm. Play Yard by Studio Bar, Lad Phrao Soi 8, 081-173-3616. B250.

Thailand International Jazz Conference 2015 The annual three-day event features jazz workshops run by local and international musicians, jazz solo improvisation competitions, and three evenings of concerts by George Garzone Trio, Chai & The Blues Maniacs feat. Nurse, Lage Lund Trio, Jetset'er, Pomelo Town with Koh Mr. Saxman and Jakob Dinsen, Mahidol University Jazz Orchestra and Silpakorn University Jazz Orchestra. B500 for a day pass, B800 for evening concerts. Full schedule at ow.ly/Gk4e1. Jan 30-Feb 1, 6:30pm, 9:30am. Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), Music Auditorium, College of Music, 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd., 02-800-2525/-34 ext.

154-5. B500-3,000 from Thaiticketmajor.

Sangsom presents Bird Ekachai Jearakul The GFA Guitar Foundation of America International Concert Artist Competition winner joins leading local artists including Pod Moderndog, Burin Boonvisut, Singto Numchok, Tor Saksit, Ratklao Amaradit and Tanit Sriglindee in a concert conducted by renowned composer/conductor Trisdee Na Patalung. Feb 7, 7pm. Muang Thai GMM Live House, 8/F, CentralWorld, 999/1 Rama 1 Rd. B1,000-3,000 from Thaiticketmajor. BTS Chit Lom.

New Found Glory Live in Bangkok The veteran American pop-punk band from Florida perform old hits and new tunes from their latest album, Resurrection at Live House Studio. Reservations at 081-930-3633. Feb 10, 7pm. JJ Green, 110/46 Lad Phrao Soi 18, 086-331-5657-8. B1,500.

BTS Mo Chit.

Playboy's Symphony Evening

The alternative live music party organzier brings 15 bands to the RCA bar, including the likes of Monomania, aire, Candysniper and Kobe. Feb 1, 7pm. Rehab Bar, RCA Block D, 21/123 Rama 9 Rd., 081-915-8823.

The Bangkok Symphony changes things up for a night of "Music-Passion-Rhythm," in collaboration with local artists Ratklao Amaradit, New-Jew, Etc., Two Popetorn and Lydia, to name a few. Expect surprises from the Playboy bunnies. Free-flow Champagne for VIP guests (B4,500). Doors open an hour before the show starts. Feb 12, 8pm.

Muang Thai Rachadalai Theatre, 4/F, The Esplanade, 99 Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456.

B1,500-4,500 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

Stoondio: Plural Day

Dark Valentine 2015

Dood x Rehab Mini Festival Trip

Stoondio launch their new album, Plural, with a concert of relaxing tunes, along with performances from other local acts like Youth Brush, Supreme and Friends and Folk White. Bring your own pillows. Feb 7, 2:30pm. The Jam Factory, 41/141/2 Charoen Nakorn Rd., 02-861-0950. Free.

Supersweet x Moumi present Hinds The Spanish rocker girl group Hinds (formerly known as Deers) holds a mini concert on Valentine's Day to celebrate the opening of the new

Happening mag hosts an alternative night of moody music for Valentine's Day, with local groups Portrait, Yellow Fang, Stoondio, Zweedz N' Roll, Moving & Cut and Superbaker. Early bird tickets at B500-600. Tickets available at Happening Shop, 3/F BACC (939 Rama 1 Rd.) Feb 14, 7pm. Siam Pikanet Theater, 7/F, Siam Square One, Rama 1 Rd. B750-850. BTS Siam.

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now STAGE

TAKE NOTE

comedy Stand-up Comedy Open Mic with Marty Lappan With 20 years of experience, Australian comedian Marty Lappan headlines this comedy night, with support from fresh local talents.

Advance tickets at B250. Jan 30, 8pm. The Comedy Club Bangkok, The Royal Oak Pub, 595/10 Sukhumvit Soi 33/1, 02-6621650. B350 one free drink. BTS Phrom Phong.

Nanta Show 2015 HOSTESS WITH THE MOSTEST

Good news for indie fans. Japan’s Hostess Club series of music festivals is coming to town. The first Bangkok edition is set for Feb 19-20, featuring a line-up of Belle and Sebastian, Caribou, Thurston Moore, Temples, Tune-Yards and Real Estate. Tickets will go on sale via Thaiticketmajor from Jan 30 onwards at B1,000 per day (B1,800 for two-day pass). The festival is more good news for Bangkok’s live music scene, following the recent announcement that How to Dress Well is also coming to town this Feb 17.

GMM Live House, 8/F, CentralWorld, 999/1 Rama 1 Rd. BTS Chid Lom

Vicetone

MUSIC/CONTINUED How to Dress Well Live in Bangkok Party organizer Dudesweet presents a concert by the American singer/songwriter, who performs fractured R&B-indebted tunes. Limited to 250 tickets. Feb 17, 9pm. Overtone, RCA Zone D, Rama 9 Rd. B600.

2015 Taeyang World Tour "Rise" in Bangkok The pint-sized member of Korean pop-group sensation Big Bang comes to Bangkok to perform his first full-scale solo concert. Feb 21, 5pm. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4455. B1,800-6,000 from Thaiticketmajor.

classical KOLOUR ME IN

If you were out of town and missed Kolour NYD on Jan 1, here’s an even bigger event to look forward to. The Kolour crew has announced what they’re calling their biggest afternoon outdoor party to date, with a maximum capacity of 2,000, picturesque views of rice fields and three lakes (one for swimming!).

Taking place on Feb 21 at the open-air venue Thai Wake Park (Lum Luk Ka, Pathum Thani), Kolour In the Park with Sven Väth promises 12 hours of gourmet food, and an exclusive live performance by the renowned German DJ, who’s also the founder of Ibiza’s Cocoon parties. Also confirmed to play are DJs Sunju Hargun and Nakadia. Pre-sale tickets B850 available at www. kolourinthepark.com. A limited number of B1,100 tickets will be available at the door on the day. Kolour DJs also perform Wednesdays at Glow.

Concert in the Park - Continuation of Series 22 The Bangkok Symphony Orchestra performs popular tunes from a wide range of genres every Sunday through the end of Feb, at Lumpini Park's Sala Bhirom Bhakdi. Note: Alcohol is not permitted. Feb 1, 15, 22, 5:30pm. Lumpini Park, Rama 4 Rd. Free. MRT Lumpini

American in Paris Young classical performers selected to take part in the Princess Galyani Vadhana Institute of Music Youth Orchestra (PYO), and popular pianist Saksit Vejsupaporn perform George Gershwin's Cuban Overture, Porgy and Bess Suite and American in Paris. Conducted by Norman Huynh. Make your bookings at reservation@pgvim.ac.th or call 02-447-8597.

Jan 31, 7pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456. Free. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

Mezzo Soprano Recital by Caroline Vitale

CALLING ALL COOKS

Suan Phlu jazz favourite Smalls recently launched a Monday Hospitality Night, offering buy-one-get-one-free on all standard pours and cocktails for chefs, restaurateurs and hotel managers of Bangkok. The bar also hosts Jazz Wednesdays, with regulars like Dan Phillips Quartet and the Space Trio +1. Meanwhile, Phuong’s Pho Night, held every last Sunday of the month, is gaining quite the reputation for its authenticity.

186/3 Suan Phlu Soi 1. Open Wed-Mon 7:30pm-2am. BTS Sala Daeng

The member of the Zurich Opera House collaborates with Swiss pianist Peter Baur. Tickets available at Robinson Piano Showroom, 5/F, Siam Discovery Center. 02-658-1080-1 for more information. B300 for students. Feb 3, 7:30pm. Siam Ratchada Auditorium, U/F, Fortune Town, New Ratchadapisek Rd., 02245-7717. B600.

Beethoven & Beethoven A night of Beethoven sounds by the Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Claude Villaret, with the support of Italian pianist March Schiavo. Pre-concert talk 45 minutes before the show starts. Feb 6, 7pm; Feb 7, 4pm.

Prince Mahidol Hall, Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd. B100-500.

Valentine's Day Music

GRANNY’S PASSPORT

Charoenkrung indie art spot Speedy Grandma has just launched a Republic of Speedy Grandma Passport. The free book allows you to collect different designed stamps for every event you join for the rest of the year. On top of its exhibitions and interesting speaker events, the art space has also just launched a Saturday film screening night showcasing films on the fringes of good taste.

672/50-52 Charoen Krung Soi 28. Open Tue-Sun 11am-7pm. MRT Hua Lamphong

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An exciting program by the Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Gudni A. Emilsson, featuring violinist Sittichai Pengcharoen and pianist Rolf Dieter Arens, who will be playing Mendelssohn's Concerto for Violin, Piano and Orchestra and Mahler's Fifth Symphony.

Pre-concert talk 45 minutes before the show starts. Feb 13, 7pm; Feb 14, 4pm. Prince Mahidol Hall, Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd. B100-500 from Thaiticketmajor.

Romantic Music from German Winds Festival and Academy 2015 Thai music students from the faculty of music of Silpakorn University, who've had special training from Peter Monkediek (trumpet) and Nicola Jurgensen (clarinet), will perform Krommer, Mozart, Strauss, Bach and H.M The King's music this Valentine's Day. Tickets available

at 02-424-5505 or Sufm.ticket@gmail.com.

B150 for students. Feb 14, 7:30pm. Goethe Institute Auditorium, 18/1 Sathorn Tai Soi 1, 02-108-8200. B500. MRT Lumpini

A Very Big Music Festival Opera Siam and the Department of Cultural Promotion organize two nights of Gustav Mahler classical music, conducted by Somtow Sucharitkul, in honor of the late Princess Galyani. Feb 16, 18, 8pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456.

MRT Thailand Cultural Centre. Price tbc.

Das Lied von der Erde This personal Mahler piece is performed by the Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra, with support from vocal soloists Rafal Zurakowski and Sylwia Zlotkowska. Pre-concert talk 45 minutes before the show starts. B100 for students. Feb 20, 7pm; Feb 21, 4pm. Prince Mahidol Hall, Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd. B300-500 from Thaiticketmajor.

Piano & Violin Recital by Makoto Ueno & Yoichiro Ueno The experienced pianist and professionally trained 12-year-old violinist performs a program of Handel, Bach, Mozart and Beethoven, to name a few. Proceeds go towards the Gift of Life Foundation. Tickets available at www.salasudasirisobha.com. Feb 21, 6:30pm. Sala Sudasiri Sobha, Lad Phrao Soi 41, 02-541-8662. B500.

BSO 2015: Clara-Jumi Kang plays Saint-Saens The German-Korean violinist, who's performed with the Hamburg Symphony Orchestra, joins the Bangkok Symphony Orchestra for a program of Ravel, SaintSaens and Dvorak. Feb 28, 8pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456. B400-2,000 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

music festivals Winter Jazz and Arts Festival Jazz performances by hot local acts, many from the Phra Athit bar Jazz Happens and The Voice, with art exhibitions from Silpakorn University, art and music workshops and plenty of other stalls. Tickets can be purchased at 02-282-9934 and 084-450-0505.

Feb 28, 4:30pm. National Gallery, 4 Chao Fah Rd., 02-282-2639-40. B250.

Noise Market 4 The fourth edition of the much-loved music/ art-focused market returns to the grounds of the museum over the Valentine's weekend, bringing handmade goodness and live performances. Apply for a stall of your own at www.fb.com/noisemarket.com. Feb 13-15, 4pm. Museum Siam, 4 Sanam Chai Rd., 02-225-2777. Free.

Maya Music Festival A massive EDM music festival, with ex-member of the legendary Swedish House Mafia Steve Angello headlining the night on the 20-meter Electro-Naga stage. Other big names include Markus Schulz and Vicetone, with support from local electro DJs Ono, 22Bullets, Machina and Paulie. More announcements to follow. VIP tickets come with two free drinks, a private lounge area, private restroom and fast-lane access. Mar 7, 4pm. 11th Infantry Regiment, King's Guard, Phahon Yothin Rd. B2,500-4,000 from Thaiticketmajor.

The popular non-verbal comedy cooking show returns to Bangkok as part of its world tour, with acrobatics, slapstick and both traditional and modern Korean beats. Doors open 30 mins before the show starts. Wed-Sun, Through Jan 31, 8pm. Nanta Theatre, 1/F, Royal City Avenue, Petchaburi Soi 47. B1,300 from Thaiticketmajor (one welcome drink).

dance The Gentlemen Pichet Klunchun Dance company's new Thai and contemporary dance investigates male and female gender roles, manners and morality. B300 for students. B400 for artists and audience members under 27. Book a spot at www.showbooking.com or at 02-218-4802.

Post-performance discussion in Thai and English with dance critics. Jan 30-31, 7:30pm; Feb 1, 2pm. Sodsai Pantoomkomol Center for Dramatic Arts, 254 Phaya Thai Rd., 02-218-4802. B600.

musicals 10 Years of Musical Journey Satit Bilingual School of Rangsit University students and alumni perform highlights from popular musicals: Beauty and the Beast, The Sound of Music, Lion King, Annie, Mulan and Aladdin. Conducted by Denny Euprasert, under musical supervision of Eugene Eustaquio. Suggested donations of B300, B500 and B900, with a mini concert by local artists and celebrities. Tickets available at the school. More information at music@sbs.ac.th.

Feb 28, 7pm. Rangsit University, 52/347 Phahon Yothin Soi 87 (Phahon Yothin).

theater This is my {Day} Light A quirky performance by Thai cabaret entertainer Day Freeman and veteran solo artist Wannasak Sirilar, in celebration of Valentine's Day. Tickets at 088-018-5966 or 095-8591515. Feb 5-8, 12-15, 8pm. Sun Dance Theatre, 5/F, Silom Society, 12/3 Silom Rd., 088-018-5966. B500. BTS Sala Daeng.

Bang-La-Merd: The Land I Do Not Own B-Floor Theatre's award-winning actress Ornanong Thaisriwong makes her directorial debut for this solo performance of 2012's Best Original Script award-winning play from the International Association of Theatre Critics Thailand. Reserve your tickets at 095-542-4555 or 095-924-4555.

Free parking at Marriott Hotel for advanced payment. Thu-Mon, Through Feb 9, 8pm. Thong Lor Art Space, 58/14-15 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). B500 (B350 for students who pay five days in advance).

Crossing Nirvana Veteran actor Sornchai Chatwiriyachai presents his first original play, bringing together Shylock from Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice and a notorious Thai financier in a story that looks at societal pressures and justice. Details at 089-554-9865 and 089-690-0442. Feb 27-Mar 2, 8pm; Mar 6-9, 8pm. Democrazy Theatre Studio, 1034/29-30 Soi Saphankhu, Rama 4, 089-126-7112, 081-441-5718. B500.

MRT Lumphini.

Disney's Beauty and the Beast The Original Broadway Musical Spectacular The award-winning production returns to Bangkok after 13 years of successful performances. Shows run Tue-Sun. 2pm performances every weekend. Feb 24-Mar 15, 7:30pm. Muang Thai Rachadalai Theatre, 4/F, The Esplanade, 99 Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456. B1,000-4,000 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

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ART

opening Disquiet Chiang Mai-based British artist Will Klose presents a series of realistic paintings based on his suburban London memories. Feb 4-Mar 31, 10am.

H Gallery, 201 Sathorn Soi 12, 085-021-5508.

Drift: Project #2: Tool The experimental sound project is back. Explore the relationship between sound and images with sound imaging sessions, workshops and live performances by local and international sound and visual artists across two days. Detailed schedule on the BACC website. Curated by Koichi Shimizu and Pichaya AIie Suphavanij. Jan 31, 3pm; Feb 1, 1pm. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-6630-8. BTS National Stadium.

Paintbox 3 - 2xx1 Parallel Future The Phra Khanong art space/cafe's grand opening and one year anniversary coincides with a new group exhibition, featuring the work of Koutaro Ooyama (Doppel), Hideyuki Katsumata and Rukkit. Opening party is on Jan 30 at 7pm. Jan 30-Mar 8, 7pm. GOJA Gallery CafĂŠ, 5/2 Pridi Soi 3, 085-848-7576. BTS Phra Khanong.

Turning Tweets Pulse Part of the Japan Foundation's project "Run & Learn: New Curatorial Constellations," a development program aiming to promote contemporary art, this exhibition curated by Kamonpond Eiko Wongcharoenchai features the work of local artists. Opening reception and live performance on Feb 4 at 6:30pm. Talk with the artists and curator on Feb 7 at 1pm. Closing party on Feb 10 at 7pm.

Feb 4-10, 6:30pm. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-6630-8.

BTS National Stadium.

ongoing 71 Years Kamol & Friends A special exhibition by celebrated artist Kamol Tassananchalee, awarded National Artist in Visual Art of 1996, in celebration of HRH Princess Theparat Ratchasuda's 60th birthday. Through Feb 6, 5pm. Ratchadamnoen Contemporary Art Center (RCAC), 84 Ratchadamnoen Klang Rd., 02-422-8837.

Art Exhibition by Amy Diener: Colorful Moments of Artistic Vibrance A low-key painting exhibition by New York artist Amy Diener at this Phra Nakorn food and drink joint, inspired by the vibrant colors of Bangkok.

Through Feb 22, Chomp, Samsen Soi 1, 084098-8633.

Barry x Ball: Portraits and Photos The Californian sculptor has shown his dramatic marble busts at the MOMA (NY, USA) and the Venice Biennale. Here he also shows images of his past installations. Through Mar 29. 100 Tonson Gallery, 100 Soi Tonson, Ploenchit Rd., 02-684-1527. BTS Phloen Chit.

Boun: Abstraction The experienced Sino-Vietnamese artist paints with intense but natural pigments. Through Feb 28. Artha Gallery, 5-7 Charoenkrung Soi 36, 02-630-9489.

Clairvoyance HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn's new mixed-subject photography exhibition, takes its title from the traditional Thai epic Inao. Through Mar 8. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-6630-8. BTS National Stadium.

Drawing out the Best in Me The new art space's second exhibition features pencil drawings by Austrian artist Elysha Rei, who once worked in Nakhon Ratchasrima, illustrating the cultures and faces that she has encountered over the years. Through Feb 17, 7pm. Use Space, Samsen Rd. near Samsen Soi 24, 081-458-0116.

Dubway Presents the Artwork of TRK vol. 2 Teerayut Puchpen, aka TRK, is famous for street art depicting monstruous figures. Through Feb 17. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833.

Flotsam & Jetsam Deborah Coffey's mixed-media exhibition fills the walls of the historic library's Rotunda Gallery.

Through Feb 28, 10am. Neilson Hays Library, 195 Surawong Rd., 02-233-1731.

Gems of Hanoi - A Dao Hai Phong Retrospective One of Vietnam's most successful painters.

Through Feb 14. Thavibu Gallery, Room 433, 4/F, JTC Jewelry Trade Center, 919/1 Silom Rd., 02-266-5454.

Joyful Khaen, Joyful Dance The gallery explores traditional Isaan folk music and culture, and its history. Expect a variety of music and narrative performances. Through Mar 31. Jim Thompson House Art Center, Jim Thompson House, Soi Kasem San 2, Rama 1 Rd.

Le Kinlaads A new painting exhibition by Pom Jitpratuk, a graphic design graduate from Central Saint Martin.

Through Feb 15. Koi Art Gallery, 245 Sukhumvit Soi 31 (Soi Sawasdee), 02-662-3218.

Man's Religion A monochrome nude photography exhibition

by Nipon Intarit at the gallery of Thai photographer Manit Sriwanichpoom. Through Feb 28.

Kathmandu Photo Gallery, 87 Pan Rd., 02234-6700.

Ms. Match Solo Exhibition Soopakorn Srisakul depicts the reality of the lives of transgender people in his first solo exhibition at the Charoenkrung gallery. Through Feb 7.

Soy Sauce Factory, 11/1 Charoenkrung Soi 24.

092-115-8698. MRT Hua Lamphong.

Predetermined A new series of paintings and sculptures by Prasert Yodkaew, inspired by Thai idealism and scientific truths. Through Feb 8. Tang Contemporary Art, Room B-28, Basement/F, Silom Galleria, 919/1 Silom Rd., 02-630-1114.

Rockumentary 2005-2014 First solo photography exhibition by Chaicharn "Bank" Lertnimanoradee, capturing concert moments of well-known local musicians like Thaitanium, Apartment Khunpa, Burin Bunvisoot (Grooverider) and Pae Arak (Slur). Through Feb 22. Rooftop Gallery by Farmani, 440/10 Sukhumvit 55 Soi (between Thonglor Soi 14-16), 091-573-6841.

Sculpere On the back of his successful exhibition at Chula, Japanese artist Soichiro Shimizu presents largescale abstract paintings and sculptures at the Sukhuvit gallery. Through Feb 8, The Adler Subhashok Gallery, 160/3 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-662-0299.

Siam: Through the Lens of John Thomson 1865-66 Thailand during the era of King Rama V as seen by Scottish photographer John Thomson, who captured portraits, events and landscapes.

Through Feb 28. National Gallery, 4 Chao Fa Rd., 02-282-2639-40.

Solo: Never Odd or Even Part IV Estonian jewelry artist Tanel Veenre collaborates with Swedish brand Märta Mattsson Jewellery for this exhibition on the themes of symmetry and reflection. Through Feb 21. ATTA Gallery, Room 1109, OP Garden, 36 Charoenkrung Rd. 02-238-6422. BTS Saphan Taksin.

Threshold Part 2 A group exhibition featuring artists Sayumphorn Janthasorn, Justin Mills, Rebecca Vickers, Karma Sirikogar, Christian Hogue, Anjali Mandrekar, Chip Seven and Dan Burman at the Charoenkrung art gallery/cafe. Through Feb 20. Bridge, Charoen Krung Soi 51, 086-986-9421. BTS Saphan Taksin.

Tropikos An exhibition by three Thai artists and three Brazilian artists, working in pairs to create a unifying culture in the new "Tropikos' Land." Through Feb 28. Hof Art Space, W District, Sukhumvit Soi 69-71. BTS Phra Khanong.

Warlords Hyper-masculine photos of foreign Muay Thai fighters taken by Australian-born artist Troy Schooneman. Through Feb 28. Eat Me, 1/6 Phiphat Soi 2, Convent Rd., 02-238-0931. BTS Sala Daeng.

What are we Drinking?

Nina Sarabutra installs 44 glass and 365 porcelain works, touching on the topic of alcohol consumption. Through Mar 14. Ardel's Third Place Gallery, 137-137/1 Thonglor Soi 10, 02 714 7929.

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now TGIF Market (Thank God It's Flea Market)

NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE Ladprao

With a new theme of "Playground for Urbanista," the successful pop-up market brings together celebrity stalls, the biggest Instagram fashion vendors and some great local designers. Expect hundreds of tents taking over the entire square of CentralWorld. Apply for your own stall now at tgifmarket.com. Feb 28-Mar 1, 11am. CentralWorld, 999/1 Rama 1 Rd., 02-635-1111. BTS Chit Lom. Free.

It’s the last weekend of the spectacular NASA: A Human Adventure exhibition, so here’s how to make a day of it in the shopper’s paradise Ladprao.

Thailand Classic & Super Car 2015

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Threshold Part 2

ART/CONTINUED [un] forgotten

Blue Sky Bar

Siam Gypsy Night Market

Lek Kiatsirikajorn and Stephanie Borcard/ Nicholas Metraux present a contemporary photography exhibition in which they record paradoxical stories of people that want to forget, and people that want to remember. Through Feb 14. Silpakorn University Gallery, 31 Na Phra Lan Rd., 02-221-3841.

GO TO OUTER SPACE

Space exploration geeks will be thrilled by NASA: A Human Adventure at Bangkok Convention Center (5/F, Central Ladprao), which combines actual parts of ships and equipment flown in space, on top of many models to scale. They have a long list of ways to get discounts on the tickets, so look that up before going. Otherwise it’s B350 for students and B500 for adults during weekends.

CentralPlaza Ladprao, 1693 Paholyothin Rd. Open daily 10am-10pm. MRT Phahon Yothin

BEAT THE BARGAIN-HUNTERS

Union Mall is a shopping complex with a somewhat similar vibe to Platinum shopping mall (without the crazy bulk sellers). Here, you’ll find reasonably-priced fashion items and accessories similar to those in Siam Square (a lot of the stall-holders do their shopping here), plus some real left-field finds in the vintage section on its 5/F (think Japanese rock T-shirts and designer brands). With air-conditioning, decent food, including the rather trendy Crepe Cafe and O’s coffee (4/F), we think this makes a fine alternative to fighting through the sweaty crowds at Siam.

54 Lad Phrao Rd. Open daily 11am-10pm. MRT Phahon Yothin

EAT LOCAL

Or Tor Kor Market (Marketing Organization for Farmers) is an underrated gem.

Similar to Singaporean hawker stations, the relatively modern market offers fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood and meat cuts, herbs and spices, Thai condiments, local ready-to-eat curries, namprik pla-tu and desserts like Thai egg yolk desserts, fried kanom pia (Chinese bean cake) and mango sticky rice. We especially like the crab meat kanom jeen (rice noodles), and the famous somtam joint Sudjai Gaiyang is always packed. Although the products are slightly more pricey than food from your average wet market, everything is still very affordable and of good quality. The market is directly accessible via the MRT. Kamphaengphet Rd. (Opposite Chatuchak Weekend Market). Open daily 6am-6pm.

MRT Kamphaengphet

SHOP AND CHILL

What more needs to be said about Chatuchak weekend market? With over 15,000 stalls, it’s possible to spend entire weekends wandering the market’s labyrinthine sections, so plan wisely. You’ll find the most design-forward shops in Section 3, right outside Kamphaeng Phet MRT station. There are also food and drink stalls, here, selling everything from Thai tea chao guay to somtam. When in need of a break, head over to the adjacent Suan Rot Fai for a classic bicycle ride (there are bikes for rent), or Queen Sirikit Park for a laze in the sun.

BTS Mo Chit, MRT Chatuchak, MRT Kampaengphet

GYPSY NIGHTS

For lovers of all things vintage, Siam Gypsy Night Market should be your first stop as soon as the sun goes down. You’ll spot all sorts of random goods and gadgets at this night flea market as you walk through JJ Green. On top of the handmade accessories and second-hand clothing, there are retro snacks and cheap spare parts for cars and motorbikes, most of which is laid out on the ground. There are also gigs at the various low-key bars, and trailers selling very cheap cocktails. Be warned: it gets packed out later in the night.

JJ Green, Kamphaeng Phet 3 Rd., (near Children Museum), 083-074-2100. Open Fri-Sun 5pm-12am. BTS Mo Chit/MRT Chatuchak

SEE THE BLUE SKY

Had it with bargain-hunting? Treat yourself to a panoramic view of northern Bangkok at Blue Sky Bar, Centara Grand Hotel, one of the few sky bars in this neck of the woods. The interior is chic, and you can also go al fresco and lie on one of the plush day beds. The food and drink menus are definitely more affordable than at its Ratchaprasong counterpart.

Blue Sky Bar, 24/F, Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao

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HAPPENINGS

classes & workshops Musical Theatre for Kids presents The Muppets A kids-only Broadway workshop with an emphasis on vocal techniques, led by performer Laura Brunner. Suitable for children ages 6-10 years old. Sign up at musicaltheatreforkidsbkk@gmail.com. Feb 16-20, 23-27, 9:30am.

The Hop, 252/9 Silom Rd. Between Silom Soi 18 and Soi 20. B5,500.

design exhibitions Debut by TCDCCONNECT TCDCCONNECT introduces the work of 16 outstanding creatives and designers from Chiang Mai Design Week 2014. Through Jan 31. Thailand Creative and Design Center (TCDC), 6/F, The Emporium, 662 Sukhumvit Soi 24, 02-664-8448. BTS Phrom Phong.

NASA: A Human Adventure Produced by John Nurminen Events in cooperation with NASA, the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center, and the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, this massive exhibition showcases 350 space exploration-related objects, many of which were used in actual space missions. Through Feb 1.

CentralPlaza Lardprao, 1693 Phahon Yothin Rd. B250-500 from Thaiticketmajor.

MRT Phahon Yothin.

Pop-Up Art Library by The Reading Room This temporary art library project runs as a part of the (-) 1 The Great Artist of Tomorrow Will Go Underground exhibition, and features literature from 12 libraries around Bangkok.

Throughout the duration of the show, a fact sheet is available on Bangkok's best resources for contemporary art literature. Through Feb 1, Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-6630-8. Free.

BTS National Stadium.

foodie events Bangkok Beer Week A whole week for beer lovers as Mikkeller celebrates its first anniversary with exclusive new bottles and 50 taps from popular breweries around the world. Get tickets to the Keg Party on Feb 6-7 at http://ow.ly/GQW7b, which includes 50 free flow beers, a branded tasting glass and an event shirt for the first 50 purchase. B1,200 for advanced reservations, B1,500 at the door. Through Feb 7, 12pm. Mikkeller, 26 Ekamai Soi 10, 02-381-9891. Free.

Flavor Food Fest A food festival boasting Bangkok's favorite food trucks, Instagram shops and popular vendors, including the likes of Foodstop, Surface, Mad Moa and Summer Street, with local and international DJs spinning vinyl and live

band sessions of soul, jazz and funk. Held at Warehouse 26, opposite K-Village. Jan 31Feb 1, 3pm. K.Village, Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02 2589919-21.

sales & fairs Spring Epicurean Market A community market devoted to good food featuring a line-up of local artisans and vendors including the likes of Joe Sloane's Sausages and Conkey's Breads with a space for kids and live music. Feb 22, 8am; Mar 29, 8am; Apr 26, 8am. Spring Summer, 199 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-392-2747/8. Free. www.springnsummer.com.

Bangkok Motorbike Festival 2015 The seventh edition of the motorcycle expo takes over CentralWorld with stands from leading manufacturers KTM, MV Agusta, Ducati, Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki and Zero Engineering, as well as booths selling parts, accessories and clothing. Through Feb 1, 3pm. CentralWorld, 999/1 Rama 1 Rd., 02635-1111. BTS Chit Lom.

Urban Eatery To be held every fourth weekend of the month, this new foodie market promises international dishes, mini cafes, handicrafts, clothing, home decor and more in a vintage garden atmosphere. Jan 31-Feb 1, 10am. K.Village, Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02 2589919-21. Free.

Container Market: Season of Love 2015 The stylish outdoor night market returns to the Ratchapreuk community mall, with over 50 stalls that sell everything from clothes and crockery to garden supplies. Drinks, dessert and live music throughout the night. Jan 31-Feb 1, 4pm. The Bloc, 94 Ratchaphruek Rd.

Bangkok Farmers' Market @ Siam Square One The popular weekend farmers' market moves to its latest venue, promising the usual parade of organic goods, pop-up food vendors, artisanal products for the market/healthy-living enthusiasts of Bangkok. Connected to exit 4 of BTS Siam. Feb 6-8, 27-1, 9am. Siam Square One, Rama 1 Rd. BTS Siam.

Bike Show: Ride For It The biggest evening outdoor bicycle show in Bangkok spans three days at the riverside venue. Feb 5-8, 3pm. Free. Asiatique the Riverfront, 2194 Charoenkrung Rd., 02-1084488. BTS Saphan Taksin (free ferry from Sathorn Pier).

Notting Hill Market Valentine's Edition A quaint English-style market, to be held every first weekend of the month at the Suk 77 English old town-themed community mall.

Expect cute DIY products, handicrafts, jewelry, food and drinks. Feb 14-15, 4pm. Pickadaily Bangkok, Sukhumvit Soi 77. Free.

ThaiCraft Fair Find locally produced, hand-crafted products from 50 different village craft groups at the monthly fair that promotes sustainable living. This month, you can create your own lily bouquets by using rubber-tree leaves, with the help of artisans from the Southern part of Thailand. Feb 28, 10am.

Jasmine City Building, 2 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-204-5888. Free.

The riverside venue brings together a huge selection of hard-to-find classics and the latest sports cars. Feb 27-Mar 8, 5pm. Asiatique the Riverfront, 2194 Charoenkrung Rd., 02-108-4488. BTS Saphan Taksin (free ferry from Sathorn Pier). Free.

sports BITEC Half Marathon 2015: The Heart Runners One of the biggest Bangkok running events, with three courses to choose from: 21.1km Half Marathon, 10.5km Mini Marathon and 5km Micro Marathon. Registration is now closed. Feb 1, 3am. BITEC, 88 Bang Na-Trat Rd., 02-749-3939. B300-500. BTS Bang Na.

MRC Bangkok - 2nd Run The bar's running club holds its second event, with a choice between long and short routes.

House pilsner for all participants following the run. Feb 7, 10am. Mikkeller, 26 Ekkamai Soi 10, 02-381-9891.

Thaicom 10K 2015 The family-friendly race offers 5-10km courses for various age groups. Scholarships to continue race training go to the top five runners (Thai nationals) of each course. More details and registration at www.bibmaster.com. Feb 8, 5am. Suan Luang Rama XIII Public Park, Arun Amarin Rd. B200-300.

Run with Me 2015 Couples are invited to take part in the following races this Valentine's Day: the 20km Couple Run Challenge (B1,200 with a finisher T-shirt), 10km mini marathon (B700) and 3km fun run (B700). All participants must sign up in pairs at www.bibmaster.com, and all finishers will receive a pair of cute couple medals. Feb 14, 6am. Suanluang Rama IX Public Park, Sukhumvit Soi 103, 02-3288982. B700-1,200.

talks Bridges - Dialogues Towards a Culture of Peace Four Nobel Laureates talk in collaboraton with the International Peace Foundation. Feb 2: Prof.

Bruce A. Beutler, 2011 Nobel Laureate in Medicine, addresses "The global struggle against infectious disease" at the QSNCC. Feb 9: Dr. Mohamed ElBaradei, 2005 Nobel Peace Prize recipient, discusses "Global equity and security" at the FCCT. Feb 2, 2pm; Feb 9, 7pm. Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, 60 New Ratchadapisek Rd., 02-229-3000. MRT Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre. Free.

The Education Dialogue: The Right Leads for a Great Future The conference explores three themes: education, innovation and inspiration. Speakers include: former prime minister of Thailand Abhisit Vejjajiva, Secretary General of the Office of Higher Education Commission Assoc.

Prof. Kamjorn Tatiyakavee, architect Duangrit Bunnag and BBC science reporter Prof. Iain Stewart. Organized by the British Council and Thailand's Ministry of Education. For a full schedule and online registration, visit ow.ly/ GUs7g. Jan 30-31, 10am. Siam Paragon, 991 Rama 1 Rd., 02-690-1000. BTS Siam. Free.

Valerio Olgiati/A Lecture Swiss architect Valerio Olgiati, who's taught at ETH Zurich, Architectual Association School of Architecture London and Cornell, and is the Kenzo Tange Chair at Harvard, speaks as part of the Silpakorn University Architectual Talk.

Reserve your seat at goo.gl/forms/fvf36IQjMh. Feb 7, 1pm-4pm. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-6630-8. BTS National Stadium

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now upcoming

NEW

Single Lady (Thai) Romcom. Unfortunate circumstances compel independent working-woman Bright (Patcharapa Chaichue) to seek out her old lovers and perhaps find true love in the process. Feb 5

Jupiter Ascending (US)

Laggies

FILM

opening The Imitation Game (US/UK) Ocean Urban Lounge and Boutique Resort (Sukhumvit Soi 33) has launched a free screening event featuring what it dubs “modern classic” movies. Enjoy the films poolside, where massages will be on offer. Food and tapas will also be available throughout the evening. Screenings start at 8pm. Reservations at 02-261-2800.

For more information, visit www.oceanbangkok.com

Drama. In 1939, genius mathematician Alan Turing (Benedict Cumberbatch) cracks the Nazi’s enigma code and helps the Allies win WWII, only to later face criminal prosecution for being gay.

Project Almanac (US) Sci-fi/Adventure. This found footage film follows a group of teenagers who build a time-machine based on a mysterious blueprint, which they use to alter events in their past with dire consequences.

Tracers (US) Thriller. Cam (Taylor Lautner) is a bike messenger working in New York. After becoming entangled in Mafia affairs, Cam must escape the mob by any means necessary.

Love Live Concert (Japan) Animation. Honoka’s (Emi Nitta) beloved school is about to close down. In order to save it, she gathers her group of friends to compete in the School Idol Competition, hoping to snag first place and make her school more popular.

now showing Laggies (US) HHHHH Drama. 28-year-old Megan (Keira Knightley) is shocked to learn, at her 11-year high school reunion, how stagnant her life is compared to her friends, so she starts hanging out with a 16-year-old (Chloe Grace Moretz).

Mortdecai (US) HHHHH

On Jan 31, Ribbee Live Hive (Sukhumvit Soi 39) will be hosting a special free screening of the documentary film Mighty Uke. The Canadian film, directed

by Tony Coleman, tells the history of the Ukulele and how the instrument has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years. Told through a combination of interviews, photographs, graphics and live performance footage, the film features appearances from big names in the ukulele-playing world such as Jake Shimabukuro, the Hawaiian ukulele virtuoso. Seats need to be reserved in advance at 096-805-8102.

Adventure. Johnny Depp plays a charming art dealer who travels the world in search of a lost painting rumored to contain a code to an old Nazi bank account filled with gold.

Wolves (US) HHHHH Adventure. After murdering his parents, Cayden Richards (Lucas Till) travels to Lupine Ridge, a town inhabited by werewolves, where a shocking truth about his past is revealed.

Big Eyes (US) HHHHH Drama. In the 1950s, artist Michael Keane (Christoph Waltz) is world famous for his paintings of big-eyed little girls. Little does everyone know that the paintings are actually by his wife, Margaret (Amy Adams).

Directed by Tim Burton.

The Woman in Black 2 (UK) HHHHH Horror. This sequel to 2012’s horror flick takes place 40 years after the original, when a group of WWII orphans are transported to the Eel Marsh House, unknowingly awakening the malevolent spirit that dwells there.

Dumb and Dumber to (US)

Get all the latest events and restaurant openings from BK Magazine in real time with BK Now

HHHHH Comedy. Taking place 20 years after the original, Lloyd (Jim Carrey) and Harry (Jeff Daniels) are back. This time, Harry discovers he has a daughter (Rachel Melvin).

Map to the Stars (US) HHHHH Drama. The story of a Hollywood family and their perpetual struggles for fame and against each other.

Water Diviner (AU/US) HHHHH Drama. After the Battle of Galipoli during WWI, an Australian farmer named Connor (Russell Crowe) must travel to Turkey to find his three missing sons.

After (US) HHHHH Drama. Set in 2002 New York, this film tells the story of a family struggling to keep both their business and relationships intact, but a well-buried secret could shatter their fragile lives forever.

American Sniper (US) HHHHH Drama/Thriller. The story of Chris “Legend” Kyle (Bradley Cooper), the man known as the most lethal sniper in the US army.

Into the Woods (US) HHHHH Fantasy/Adventure. An alternate version of the classic Grimm fairy tale, the film follows The Baker (James Cordon) and his Wife (Emily Blunt) as they journey to find the ingredients needed to undo a curse put upon them by a witch (Meryl Streep). Along the way, they meet the likes of the big bad Wolf (Johnny Depp) and Cinderella (Anna Kendrick).

Blackhat (US) HHHHH Thriller. Nicholas Hathaway (Chris Hemsworth) is a criminal hacker released from prison in order to help the police take down an international cyber-criminal.

At the Devil’s Door (US) HHHHH Horror. Leigh (Catalina Sandino Moreno) is tasked with selling a house with a dark past, where she meets a disturbed little girl with sinister intentions.

Black & White: The Dawn of Justice (China/Taiwan) HHHHH Action. The latest in this crime-thriller series follows a police officer (Mark Chao) as he tries to stop a terrifying conspiracy to release a virus that will destroy the world in 14 days.

Frozen Sing-a-long (US) HHHHH Animation/Musical. A sing-a-long version of Disney’s block-buster 2014 animated film.

Taken 3 (US) HHHHH Action. Liam Neeson is back yet again as Bryan Mills in this latest entry to the Taken series. This time, Mills is framed for the murder of his ex-wife (Famke Janssen), and must utilize his “particular set of skills” to outsmart and outrun the police, FBI and CIA.

Foxcatcher (US) HHHHH Drama. Mark Schultz (Channing Tatum), an aspiring wrestler, is approached by coach John du Pont (Steve Carrell) to join the Olympics wrestling team. Schultz, hoping to step out of the shadow of his older brother (Mark Ruffalo), agrees to join the team, unaware of the tragedy that awaits.

The One Ticket (Thai) HHHHH Comedy. Pong (Worawech Danuvongse), an unmotivated cartoonist, must push himself to the edge of his limits to get a sold-out concert ticket for his young daughter (Nattaya Ongsritrakul).

Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb (US) HHHHH Comedy. Ben Stiller returns as a museum security guard and must unite the museum’s greatest heroes such as Theodore Roosevelt (Robin Williams) and Attila the Hun (Patrick Gallagher) in a globe-spanning quest to save the magic that brings the museum’s exhibits to life.

Sci-fi/Adventure. Jupiter Jones (Mila Kunis) finds her life in danger when she learns that her genetic structure marks her as the heir to a vast interstellar empire of humans. Aided by super-soldier Caine (Channing Tatum), she sets out on a quest with the world’s fate in the balance. Feb 5

The Rewrite (US) Drama. Has-been Academy Award-winning screenwriter Keith Michaels (Hugh Grant) reluctantly takes on a university teaching job only to fall in love with Holly (Marisa Tomei), a single mother attending his class. Feb 5

Song One (US) Drama. Franny (Anne Hathaway) travels to New York to visit her brother after an accident put him in a coma. There, she becomes involved with James Forester (Johnny Flynn), a musician idolized by her brother. Feb 5

The Riot Club (UK) Drama. Oxford University freshmen Miles Richards (Max Irons) and Alistair Ryle (Sam Claflin) join a secret society, where they learn the hard lesson that reputations can be made or destroyed in a fraction of a moment. Feb 5

The Theory of Everything (UK) Biopic. In the 1960s, Cambridge University student Stephen Hawking (Eddie Redmayne) learns that he has motor neuron disease. With the support of Jane Wilde (Felicity Jones), Hawking goes on to make great strides into the study of space and time. Feb 5

Comet (US) Drama. Dell (Justin Long) and Kimberly (Emmy Rossum) forge a six-year long-distance relationship after a chance encounter under a meteor shower. Feb 5

Gallows Hill/The Damned (Spain) Horror. David (Peter Facinelli) and his new fiancée Lauren (Sophia Myles) travel to Bogota to retrieve his daughter Jill. As an accident leaves them stranded at a mysterious inn, they find that the innkeeper is keeping a girl locked up in the basement. Feb 5

free screenings Jam Every Wednesday night is Cult Movie Night.

Theme for February is Banned Films. Screenings start from 8pm, visit www.fb.com/JAMCAFEBKKfor schedule. 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-545-1833. Open Tue-Sun noon-midnight.

The Friese-Greene Club The schedule follows a daily theme. Films start from 8pm, visit www.fgc.in.th for the full line up and to reserve your seat. 259/6 Sukhumvit Soi 22, 087-000-0795. Open Wed-Sun 6pm-late.

Alliance Française Movies are subtitled in English and screened at 7pm. Feb 4. La Folie Almayer (2012): A wealthy European merchant searches for more riches out of love for his daughter, only to risk losing everything. 179 Witthayu (Wireless) Rd., 02-670-4200

Goethe Institut Movies are in German and subtitled in English. Feb 3. Kaddish for a Friend (2012): Ali, a Lebanese boy raised in a Palestinian refugee camp, tries to gain the approval of his new friends in Berlin by destroying an apartment owned by his Jewish neighbor.

For more information, visit tinyurl.com/ kupaynp, or contact 02-108-8200, info@ bangkok.goethe.org

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FREEWILL ASTROLOGY AQUARIUS (Jan 20-Feb 18): In 1899, the King of the African nation of Swaziland died while dancing.

His only son, Sobhuza, was soon crowned as his successor, despite being just four months old. It took a while for the new King to carry out his duties with aplomb, and he needed major guidance from his grandmother and uncle. Eventually he showed great aptitude for the job, though, and ruled until his death at age 83. I’m getting a Sobhuza-type vibe as I meditate on you, Aquarius.

New power may come to you before you’re fully ready to wield it. But I have confidence you will grow into it, especially if you’re not shy about seeking help.

PISCES (Feb 19-Mar 20): In the 1951 animated movie version of Alice in Wonderland, Alice says to herself, “I give myself very good advice, but I very seldom follow it.” I hope you won’t be like her, Pisces. It’s an excellent time for you to heed your own good advice. In fact, I suspect that doing so will be crucial to your ability to make smart decisions and solve a knotty problem. This is one of those turning points when you really have to practice what you preach. You’ve got to walk your talk.

ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 19): Do you have an entourage or posse that helps you work magic you can’t conjure up alone?

Is there a group of co-conspirators that prods you to be brave and farseeing? If not, try to whip one up. And if you do have an inspirational crew, brainstorm about some new adventures for all of you to embark on. Scheme and dream about the smart risks and educational thrills you could attempt together.

According to my reading of the astrological omens, you especially need the sparkle and rumble that a feisty band of allies can incite.

TAURUS (Apr 20-May 20): The cosmos seems to be granting you a license to be brazenly ambitious. I’m not sure how long this boost will last, so I suggest you capitalize on it while it’s surging. What achievement have you always felt insufficiently prepared

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or powerful to accomplish? What person or club or game have you considered to be out of your league? What issue have you feared was beyond your understanding? Rethink your assumptions. At least one of those “impossibilities” may be more possible than usual.

GEMINI (May 21-Jun 20): When I attended the University of California at Santa Cruz, my smartest friend was Gemini writer Clare Cavanagh. She headed off to Harvard for her graduate studies, and later became a pre-eminent translator of Polish poetry. Her work has been so skillful that Nobel Prize-winning Polish poet Czselaw Milosz selected her as his authorized biographer. Interviewing Milosz was a tough job, Clare told blogger Cynthia Haven. He was demanding. He insisted that she come up with “questions no one’s asked me yet.” And she did just that, of course. Formulating evocative questions is a Gemini specialty. I invite you to exercise that talent to the hilt in the coming week. It’s prime time for you to celebrate a Curiosity Festival.

CANCER (Jun 21-Jul 22): “Somewhere someone is traveling furiously toward you,” writes poet John Ashbery, “at incredible speed, traveling day and night, through blizzards and desert heat, across torrents, through narrow passes. But will he know where to find you, recognize you when he sees you, give you the thing he has for

you?” This passage might not be literally true, Cancerian. There may be no special person who is headed your way from a great distance, driven by a rapt intention to offer you a blessing. But I think Ashbery’s scenario is accurate in a metaphorical way. Life is in fact working overtime to bring you gifts and help. Make sure you cooperate! Heighten your receptivity. Have a nice long talk with yourself, explaining why you deserve such beneficence.

LEO (Jul 23-Aug 22): In 1768, Britain’s Royal Society commissioned navigator James Cook to lead a long naval voyage west to Tahiti, where he and his team were supposed to study the planet Venus as it made a rare transit across the face of the sun. But it turned out that task was a prelude. Once the transit was done, Cook opened the sealed orders he had been given before leaving England. They revealed a second, bigger assignment, kept secret until then: to reconnoiter the rumored continent that lay west of Tahiti. In the coming months, he became the first European to visit the east coast of Australia.

I foresee a comparable progression for you, Leo. The task you’ve been working on lately has been a prelude. Soon you’ll receive your “sealed orders” for the next leg of your journey.

VIRGO (Aug 23-Sep 22): According to computer security company Symantec, you’re not in major danger of contract-

ing an online virus from a porn website.

The risk is much greater when you visit religious websites. Why? They’re often built by inexperienced programmers, and as a result are more susceptible to hackers’ attacks. In the coming weeks, Virgo, there may be a similar principle at work in your life. I suspect you’re more likely to be undermined by nice, polite people than raw, rowdy folks. I’m not advising you to avoid the do-gooders and sweet faces. Just be careful that their naivete doesn’t cause problems.

And in the meantime, check out what the raw, rowdy folks are up to.

LIBRA (Sep 23-Oct 22): Life has a big, tough assignment for you. Let’s hope you’re up for the challenge. There’s not much wiggle room, I’m afraid. Here it is: You must agree to experience more joy and pleasure. The quest for delight and enchantment has to rise to the top of your priority list. To be mildly entertained isn’t enough. To be satisfied with lukewarm arousal is forbidden. It’s your sacred duty to overflow with sweet fulfillment and interesting bliss. Find ways to make it happen!

SCORPIO (Oct 23-Nov 21): You may have never sampled the southeast Asian fruit called durian. It’s controversial. Some people regard it as the “king of fruits,” and describe its taste as sweet and delicious. Naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace said it was like “a rich custard highly flavored with almonds.” But other people find the durian unlikable, comparing its aroma to turpentine or decaying onions. TV chef Anthony Bourdain asserts that its “indescribable” taste is “something you will either love or despise.” I foresee the possibility that

your imminent future will have metaphorical resemblances to the durian, Scorpio. My advice? Don’t take things personally.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22-Dec 21): Talking will be your art form in the coming week. It’ll be healing and catalytic. You could set personal records for most engaging phone conversations, emails, text messages, and face-to-face dialogs. The sheer intensity of your self-expression could intimidate some people, excite others, and generate shifts in your social life. Here are a few tips to ensure the best results. First, listen as passionately as you speak. Second, make it your intention to communicate, not just unload your thoughts. Tailor your messages for your specific audience.

Third, reflect on the sometimes surprising revelations that emerge from you. They’ll give you new insights into yourself.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 19): Let’s say you want to buy an 18-karat gold ring. To get that much gold, miners had to excavate and move six tons of rock. Then they doused the rock with poisonous cyanide, a chemical that’s necessary to extract the good stuff. In the process, they created toxic waste.

Is the gold ring worth that much trouble? While you ponder that, let me ask you a different question. What if I told you that over the course of the next five months, you could do what’s necessary to obtain a metaphorical version of a gold ring? And although you would have to process the equivalent of six tons of raw material to get it, you wouldn’t have to use poison or make a mess. Would you do it?

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last word

Jöel Robuchon French chef Jöel Robuchon, 69, is known for being the guy with 28 Michelin stars across 20 restaurants all over the world—fancy, expensive restaurants doing Gallic food that’s modern yet rustic. Now he’s arrived in Bangkok with L’Atelier de Jöel Robuchon and the city’s foodies are queuing up to get a taste. BK visited him prior to the official opening to talk about his eventful life, as well as his ideas for the future of the food industry.

Thai customers would often ask me when they’ll get the chance to eat at one of my restaurants in Thailand.

Well, here I am.

My best experience as a chef was when my restaurant received three stars from the Michelin Guide. We actually got the award a second time the next year, too. We were the first ones to ever win twice in a row. That is my best memory.

Here [in Bangkok], we try to use local products as much as possible, as we find them to be of a higher quality and freshness than imported products. While our food is prepared to an authentically French standard, we still try to adapt and make use of Thailand’s rich and abundant natural flavors as much as possible.

My restaurants have maintained this level of quality for so long because of our respect for the products we are selling, as well as our constant striving for innovation. We are perpetually dissatisfied with our work, and thus must always look for ways to improve upon it.

The idea behind our open kitchen came from the restaurants I ate at during my travels in Japan, such as the sushi bars where chefs cook and serve their food right there in front of them.

It was a totally different dynamic: more casual and laid-back, unlike the stiff etiquette often seen in Western restaurants.

A good kitchen can make all the difference between a good and a great experience. When you visit a restaurant with a good kitchen, you’ll remember that, same as if you were to go to a restaurant with a bad one.

It’s all part of the dining experience.

Thailand has a wealth of natural ingredients to choose from, from the many unique vegetables and herbs to the myriad kinds of fish. We exclusively use vegetables from the Royal Projects, where the chef [Olivier Limousin] personally chooses the vegetables we will be using, largely depending on the seasons. We feel like we still haven’t fully realized Thailand’s potential, but that is our goal.

I particularly enjoy Thai food for its use of fresh herbs, such as lemongrass or coriander. Other places in the world tend to make a dry curry paste, but Thailand’s curry paste is special for its use of fresh herbs. I personally find that to be very interesting. I haven’t found a Thai curry I don’t like yet.

I firmly believe that the future of the food industry will be in the well-being of our customers. The importance of having a balanced nutritional meal has been proved by science, and it shows that a lot of people are impacted by what they eat. Eating unhealthy food can lead to serious diseases like cancer and obesity.

The only thing I feel like doing is cooking.

The charm of cooking lies in the symbolism behind it. Cooking from the heart for someone you care about is, in my opinion, one of the most honest ways of expressing your love. I always tell my younger cooks that it’s as important to love your work as it is to love the people you are cooking for.

I am very interested in the concept of healthy food, or food that does not cause diseases. I am currently working with nutritionists to ensure that my food is as healthy as possible.

I’ve worked closely with nutritionists and famous doctors overseas, and the results demonstrate that curing cancer with chemical medicine alone yields worse results than if patients followed a certain diet rich in anti-oxidants. It’s been demonstrated before that a mix of medicine and a good diet can cure diseases much quicker.

When I see certain ingredients, I like to imagine how I can use that ingredient in my cooking. This usu-

ally happens at night when I go to sleep. I would wake up the next day with fresh ideas about how to use that ingredient.

Even though I’m officially retired, the only thing I feel like doing is cooking. I simply can’t bring myself to do anything else.

I am driven by the need to overcome new challenges. I constantly try to raise the bar for all my restaurants, all the while looking for new recipes or thinking of how to improve existing ones. If I’m lucky enough—and have enough time—I am interested in starting a new restaurant under a new concept.

I’d like to open my own international cooking school, based on my own experiences traveling to many countries and learning about different cultures.

The most annoying food trend for me is genetically modified products.

The concept of unnaturally grown food is quite contrary to my beliefs.

Interview by Monruedee Jansuttipan

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