it's free! Dark times
BK MAGAZINE NO. 579 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com
night markets Bangkok’s after–hours shopping haunts
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page 3 February News Quiz 6 cover story
Battle of the Night Markets 12 escapes
20 home
Shopping Streets
Vintage Finds
24 blends
26 bites
Bar Fly
Korean Classics
2. What do this month’s bomb blasts at Siam Paragon mean for Bangkok’s shoppers? a. That we were right to only visit flea markets. b. That you now have to stop and actually open your bag for the MRT security checks. c. That the Phrom Phong BTS station, due to change its name to Em District station, will be equipped with turret guns. d. The re-declaration of martial law.
36 BK NOW
45 last word
Hot Tickets
Market Master
Who's in charge? 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 Staff Writer Pinnyada Tanitnon Junior Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Junior Writers Lily Kittisrikangwan, Kanin Srimaneekulroj, Natcha Sanguankiattichai, Sam Nathapong
Regional Marketing Manager Pavida Chitprasertsuk Marketing Executive, Creative Services Puttipat Teerakawongsakul IT Manager Takrit Jitjaroen
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
Distribution Executive Suda Angsuputiphant Finance Manager Supaporn Bangmoung Assistant Finance Manager Anchalee Limkhamduang Senior Accountant Maneeya Kanthongdang
Administrator Yaovaluck Srisermsri Accountant Manita Bangmoung Contributors Rob Brezsny, Kathy MacLeod Interns Tewit Phanitprachaya, Nareerat Yoddamnern, Jetnipit Sahusyotin, Kwanwalai Rodsaward, Soravis Laopadolkij, Dharath Hoonchamlong Cover by Nemintorn Ketkeaw Placed at Rod Fai Market 2
Group Directors Chief Executive Officer Gretchen Worth gworth@asia-city.co.th Group Digital Director Greg Duncan duncann@asia-city.com.sg
Where to find us! The Asia City Publishing Group 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
Shanghai Email: shonline@asia-city.com.cn Singapore Asia City Publishing Pte. Ltd. Block 211 Henderson Rd. #14-03 Henderson Industrial Park Singapore 159552
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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1. What was the coolest promise General Prayuth made during his Japan trip? a. Elections within this year. b. Bullet trains to Pattaya within this lifetime. c. That he’d start answering journalists’ questions from now on. d. That we could date his daughters if we promise to pay for their meals.
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3. How did the Moral Promotion Center prevent teens from having sex on Valentine’s Day? a. By spreading the rumor that guys must pay for dinner at a chef’s table if they ever want to get laid. b. By dispatching police to Bangkok’s love motels. In plainclothes. With prostitutes. Inside the rooms. c. By creating a 24-hour blackout of Tinder and Grindr. d. By definitively banning the sale of condoms in high schools. Because condoms, as we all know, make kids have dirty thoughts which can make them get pregnant. 4. According to newly-appointed Thonglor police superintendent Khajohnpong Jitpakpoom, foreigners are no longer going to be stopped and searched on Sukhumvit. Unless what? a. They look like they’re heading to the new Em District wearing Crocs and a Singha wifebeater. b. They appear visibly aroused by the sight of a pot-bellied officer in really, really tight brown polyester. c. Their Thai wife is from the Northeast. d. They appear “jittery.” 5. The Supreme Council of the Sangha is not going to investigate Phra Dhammachayo. Why? a. His skin is way too white. How could he possibly be a bad guy? b. Most of that money went to purchasing space ships, which is totally legit according to Article 465/B-2 of the Sangha code. c. All that money he got from Klongchan Credit Union Cooperative? He spent it on land, not hookers. Give the guy a break. d. It was 16 years ago, brothers. Chill out. Life is just an illusion anyway. Here, smoke this. Feeling better?
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@bkmagazine BK Magazine Friday, February 27, 2015
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upfront HOT OR NOT
Hot: Pizza trucks
Not: Burger trucks
Now that you don’t need to queue for half an hour on the side of the road to eat Daniel Thaiger’s burgers, why would you? The new pizza truck, Pizza Massilia (see page 22), by one of our favorite Italian chefs, Luca Apino of La Bottega di Luca and Vesper, looks a lot more like it. There are proper tables. There’s a full-on stonefire pizza oven. He even serves booze. The only thing that’s missing is air-con.
STREET TALK
Hot: Moose
Not: New bars
We’d love to be more excited about Bangkok’s new bars (see page 24), we really would. It’s just that... aren’t they the same as our old bars? The Vault sounds exactly like The Speakeasy, Octagon sounds exactly like Above Eleven, and Mustache Bar sounds exactly like every “art bar” that’s ever opened. Meanwhile, old favorite Moose has been proving why it still matters with one good party after another. Don’t miss the next one on Mar 7 (see BK Now, page 34).
Hot: Boy bands
Not: Indie bands
What did you do before selling somtam?
Who are your waiters and waitresses?
How much does each of your staff get paid?
I was born in the Northeastern province of Roi-Et. After moving to Bangkok, I started off making a living as a cigarette importer and had my own shop. It wasn’t very lucrative, though. As I loved cooking as much as doing business, I decided to become a somtam vendor. However, the market is so competitive I found it hard to make much money.
They are part-time models. I sourced them from either Facebook or friends who work in the entertainment industry. Some even came to ask me personally whether they could work as my waiter or waitress, too.
B2,000 per day and I sell on both Saturday and Sunday according to Chatuchak’s schedule. Actually I sell on Friday, too, but the pretties are absent on this day.
So this isn’t the first time you’ve sold somtam? No. My old stall was barely recognizable. It was within Chatuchak, too, but in a very obscure corner no one would remember. I used to stress out about how I could make ordinary Thai food like somtam stand out when everybody is doing the same thing. Then I came up with the idea of dolling up my waiters and waitresses in fancy dress, like they’ve literally walked out of classic Thai literature.
Yang Hai
It’s all over. February 2015 will forever be remembered as the month of amazing gigs we missed, from Pete Doherty at Moose (see above) to Caribou at Hostess (thanks for the on-the-minute Instagrams, everyone). To make things worse, the biggest upcoming acts headed to Bangkok (see BK now, page 34) all read like a bad week on the Billboard Hot 100. Ten years ago.
With business struggling, somtam vendor Charoen “Tony” Phochaisee (center), 38, decided to doll up his stall with male and female pretties dressed to resemble Thai mythological beings Thevadha and Nang Fah. And it’s worked. The newly-opened Som Tum Tard Arb Sub at Chatuchak Market has caused a big stir thanks to its shirtless array of eye-candy waiters. BK met with him to talk business.
Hot: Phuket Town
Why do you want them to wear such costumes? Because I want to get everyone’s attention. I want to be rich. This is the only way people are going to recognize my stall. A troupe of shirtless hunks and beautiful girls that resemble those in Thai literature—what else would drive people nuts like that? Have you ever been involved in likay (Thai folk operetta) before? Well, people always mistake my costume for those in likay. That frustrates me a bit. Actually, I wear molam (Isaan folk music) clothing. I always wanted to be a molam performer, but never had the chance.
Have you ever had any trouble? Some jerk customers harassed my waitresses once or twice. I told them to stop and also warned my waitresses that they have to take care of themselves, too. As for the waiters, some customers have even proposed to “buy” them from me to stay the night or whatever. But I’m never going to let that happen. What’s next? I’m planning to expand my business as a form of pop-up food truck and drive to random destinations; places like Rod Fai Market at Ratchada Road. I’m even thinking about selling franchises. But I don’t care if people copy my idea, because it’s not just about the semi-naked waiters. My food also wins people’s hearts, too. Interview by Tewit Phanitprachaya
Not: Patong Beach
Wasn’t it yesterday we were cheering the military for cleaning Phuket of the pesky deck chair mafia? Turns out, tourists kinda liked them. It was nice to sit in a chair and not get the sand in your bikini. So next year, they’ve all promised to holiday in the Philippines instead. Pity, since Phuket Town has finally got its act together with Lard Yai walking street (see page 12).
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THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID
by Kathy MacLeod kathymacleod.blogspot.com
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BK Magazine Friday, February 27, 2015
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After Dark There are two brand new night markets in town. We went to see how they compare with Bangkok’s old favorites. Words by Tewit Phanitprachaya, photos by Nemintorn Ketkeaw Siam Gypsy Junction
NEW
Siam Gypsy Junction
NEW
Does this name seem familiar? That’s because Gypsy Market was once part of JJ Green (see page 10). The owner has now collaborated with notorious gambler-cum-businessman Chud Tao Poon on this B100 million transformation of a shadowy, 1.6-kilometer-long swathe of road beneath the soon-to-be MRT Bang Son station. But don’t expect the new market to be the same as the old one. After a major revamp, it now sports an Oriental-meets-Wild-West vibe.
Rod Fai Market 2
What we like: Piles and piles of eye-candy spanning everything from collectible Lego to taxidermied buffalo, auto spares, classic movie posters and knickknacks for the home. Many stalls also have old turntables crackling out vinyl music, while elsewhere you’ll find impromptu gigs from indie outfits, complete with haybale seating.
Following the huge success of the first Talad Rod Fai, the market’s owner Pairod Rolraew (see our interview, page 45) has just opened another branch in the more accessible Ratchada area. What was once a parking lot behind Esplanade Complex has been given a mega face-lift. Though smaller, the new market boasts a similar vintage atmosphere to the original. Expect a vibrant bazaar of street fashion, food and home decor—a welcome sight given the closure of the Ratchada Night Market a few years ago. What we like: Why mess with a winning formula? This newbie already matches its out-of-town Srinakarin predecessor for color and crowds. The stylized, Art Deco-inspired entrance (think Hua Lampong) from the original makes a reappearance with a few barely recognizable differences. There are street gigs from local indie artists, of course, while the drinks are a real bonus: from old-school, manually-pumped sodas to traditional Thai-style coffee and boozier offerings.
What to buy: The secondhand and faux-old items are strictly themed by section: nostalgic sweets, old-school toys, secondhand apparel, Harley-Davidson collectibles, comic books and more. We also found some lovely time-honored home curios like porcelain kitchenware and ceramic flower pots. There are a number of pop-up bars, too, most of which have a cross-continental tavern kind of vibe and affordable prices.
Rod Fai Market 2
What annoys us: With both cyclists and motorcyclists riding the entire 1.6km stretch, the market can seem un-pedestrian-friendly at times. We love looking at all the custom bikes, but they’d be nicer stationary and not screeching past us. Who goes there: With a shortage of convenient transport, most visitors come from around the area––families, students and other random market explorers.
Rod Fai Market 2
Siam Gypsy Junction
Rod Fai Market 2
What to buy: The street eats are endless, from all kinds of yum (salad) to on-the-go meat skewers. The home decor section is a retro goldmine, too, spanning faux 18th-century grandfather clocks to neon-lit Heineken billboards. Like all markets, there are also piles and piles of pre-loved clothes, but here you can expect a better-thanaverage selection. What annoys us: Come the weekend the crowds are pretty terrifying. On top of the unwanted invasions of private space, some popular, Pantip-hyped food stalls like Ba Mee Poo Jom Pa Lhung (prices starting at B150-B700) require you to stand in line for at least half an hour. Who goes there: Everyone, especially teens— but what did you expect, with the MRT so close?
Pro tips: If you happen to own a bike, bring it with you to avoid feeling left out. Also, the ground-level railway running alongside the market is still active. Keep a wide distance!
Pro tips: If you take the MRT, you’re absolutely fine. Otherwise, parking at Esplanade is a nightmare (especially if it’s holding a performance like Beauty and the Beast). Your car may end up half a kilometer away in a scary, old building.
Where: MRT Bang Son (under construction). Open Wed-Sun 6pm-1am
Where: Esplanade Complex, next to MRT Thai Cultural Center. Open Thu-Sun 5pm-1am Siam Gypsy Junction
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SHOP HERE: Oh!! Antique This enticing, vintage-looking furniture showroom displays products the owner and his wife picked up on their travels, as well as other imported wares. Among the highlights are 18th-19th century pieces like opulent Louis XVI-esque sofas, English-style tea paraphernalia, antique figurines and old car models. Also available are smaller decorative pieces such as typewriters, nightstands and oak-wood chairs. Prices vary from item to item but start at around B1,000 for smaller pieces. Rod Fai Market 2, 081897-4184. Open Thu-Sun, 5pm-midnight
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Rot Boran Market
Liab Duan Night Market
Rot Boran Market (Classic Car Market) Not too far from Liab Duan Night Market, over on Kaset-Nawamin Road, you’ll find this cool-looking market stashed away behind The Walk community mall. Beyond its towering, Art Deco-inspired façade is an array of classic automobiles converted into pop-up stores. Situated right by a serene lake, this hidden gem is just the spot to enjoy a retro-tinged evening.
Drive a little further out of town and you’ll find this market whose name in Thai means “the market located along the expressway.” This night market transforms 17 rai of land in the Ramintra-Ekkamai neighborhood into pandemonium, with bumper-to-bumper cars crowding the entrance every evening. What we like: The Thai idiom bae kar din (selling stuff on the ground) pretty much sums this market up. Unlike most night markets around town, Liab Duan makes no allusions to hipness. This is as down-to-earth as gets, with a low-key charm to counteract your inner-city angst. It’s open daily, too.
Liab Duan Night Market
What annoys us: It’s all a little bit too good to be true, starting with the picturesque setting. While the laidback, country-style vibes are a nice change, Rot Boran seems to lack the spontaneous edge of the other markets. It feels a little bit cliquey. Also, there aren’t many food stalls, just a couple of places selling drinks. Liab Duan Night Market
Who goes there: Local residents and club-goers who stop here on Fridays before heading off to the bars along the Ekkamai-Ramintra Road.
Who goes there: Kasetsart uni students and resident yuppies, plus some random revelers taking a stroll before hitting the bars along Ekkamai-Ramintra Road. Pro tips: Newcomers to this part of town might be bewildered by its seemingly endless straight boulevards lined with unfinished once-to-be-expressway pillars. You (or your rookie taxi driver) could easily mistake the turn-off for Nawamin Festival Walk for your actual destination, too. Luckily, each pillar has a visibly-sized number sprayed onto it. Watch out for pillar number 175 and make a U-turn (if coming from Nawamin Road) to arrive at the real The Walk.
Pro tips: If wandering the market sipping a multi-berry smoothie doesn’t quite quench your thirst, do note the long row of booze bars situated just inside the market grounds. Not only are the drinks cheaper this far out of the city, but it seems the strong arm of the law hasn’t extinguished the shisha smoke, either. Where: Opposite Tawandang German Brewery (Ramintra Branch), near Watcharapon junction. Open daily 5pm-2am
Where: The Walk, Kaset-Nawamin Rd. Open Tue and Thu 5pm-midnight Liab Duan Night Market
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What we like: The breezy rock ‘n’ roll-fueled Americana vibes, emphasized by some of the well-turned-out vendors. The vintage Volkswagens and beige-hued buildings make for some good selfie backdrops, too. What to buy: There are all sorts of secondhand knickknacks—some cool, some not— including time-honored Buddhist amulets, old-school pin to (lunchboxes), vintage tea and coffee paraphernalia, and local and imported vinyl records.
What to buy: There’s no shortage of clothes to squander your paycheck on: from basic tees to more runway-suitable looks—most of which are copycats coming in under B1,000. Expect colorful Chinese-produced G-Shocks, monogram-patterned Louis Vuitton counterfeits and New Balance sneakers with faux-velvet upholstery. But fret not; elsewhere you’ll find heartwarming corners filled with vintage-looking bric-a-brac, old-school sweets and artsy tote bags. The pop-up barbers are inviting at only B200 (no wash), too. What annoys us: The parking lot. You’ll need to wear more than flip-flops to navigate this dusty, bumpy patch of earth. We can only imagine how bad it gets in the rainy season.
Rot Boran Market
SHOP HERE: Aod’s Turntable and Equipment Vinyl records are all the rage again and this shop provides a very appealing range of secondhand imported LPs and 7-inches (pop, rock , jazz, heavy metal, reggae, thrash—you name it) as well as Thai oldies. Among all the classic soundtracks, crate-diggers will spot lots of Jimi Hendrix, Queen, Carabao, The Palace and Fruity, with prices starting from B100. The owner also buys vinyl at pretty competitive prices, too. 081-625-4563. Open Tue and Thu, 5pm-midnight
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DRINK HERE: Bus Bangkok
Green Vintage Night Market
Chatuchak Friday Night Market
Chatuchak Friday Night Market
Green Vintage Night Market
By day the asphyxiating Chatuchak Weekend Market is throbbing with local and imported shopaholics. Friday night, though, sees fewer crowds and particular attention paid to local fashion brands and street eats.
Just a stone’s throw from Chatuchak Weekend Market, this market formerly known as JJ Green is manned by the former owner of the sadly-missed Ratchada Night Market. This impressively funky space blends a low-key selection of fashionable clothing stalls and rows of industrial-slash-retro drinking parlors.
What we like: The gleeful absence of scorching sunlight and the more laid-back vibe may convince you to bid farewell to the daytime JJ for good. Thanks to thousands of light bulbs, all of the sub-sois and main roads inside the market are surprisingly well lit.
Chatuchak Friday Night Market
What to buy: Chatuchak is still Chatuchak, irrespective of what time you visit. The majority of shops are pretty much the same as you’ll find in the daytime, including local fashion brands—dresses, glasses, caps, jeans, tees, you name it––from both wholesalers and retailers. Note that only sections 12, 14, 16, 18 and 20 (clothing, accessories and food) are operational at night––no gardening, pet and ceramics zones. What annoys us: Cars are allowed to drive inside the market, making for some tight squeezes. Also, there’s only one block of toilets for the whole market. Be prepared.
Green Vintage Night Market
Siam Gypsy Junction. 083613- 6564. Open Wed-Sun 6pm-1am. BTS Mo Chit
What we like: The massive variety of items, mostly fashion, antiques and home décor, features more than just hipster clutter. Oh and the good-looking crowd that doesn’t try too hard to stand out. What to buy: Known as a mecca for car aficionados, the market’s back zone is dedicated to all types of secondhand automobile spare parts (plus bicycles), all of which are pretty open to bargaining. For 80s and 90s kids, there are lots of old-school toys like Tamagotchi and Nintendo devices, plus now-rare cassettes of everyone from The Beatles to Joey Boy. What annoys us: Largely the same things as at Chatuchak. Plus, if you don’t want to have runins with some irascible shop-owners, note that photography is often prohibited, even if it’s not properly sign-posted.
Who goes there: Ninety-percent Thai teen night strollers, with only a few expats for company. Pro tips: Peak traffic is about 11pm-midnight. We say drop by around 10pm or otherwise after midnight. The parking lots inside the market are catastrophic, with shockingly limited spaces. There are also horror stories about miscalculated parking fees. Not that the dark, tree-shaded streets beside the market are any better, whether it’s the local self-appointed mafia asking for money or the police clamping down on illegal parking.
Who goes there: Fashionable young things and snappily-dressed professionals. Some city slickers. Where: Kamphaeng Phet 3 Rd. Open Fri-Sun 5pm-midnight. BTS Mo Chit/MRT Chatuchak Park
Where: Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd. Open Fri 10pm-late night. BTS Mo Chit/MRT Chatuchak Park
Chatuchak Friday Night Market
This patio-like boozer sits in a modified double-decker van with an expanded rooftop drinking area decked out in a retro-tinged fashion. Enjoy panoramic views of the bulb-lit market while sipping Hoegarden (B165) to an ever-rewarding Thai playlist. Go for Sangsom (B250) or Corona (B150) to round off your night wildly.
DRINK HERE: Sathan Nee Ruam Mit Also known as Ruam Mit Station, this cozy bar looks like a long-lost brother of the ubiquitous retro-themed Taksura chain and is packed with eye candy for toy-collecting hobbyists. Designwise, it’s all bare cement and retro bric-a-brac like neon-lit clocks and signs. When the old-school jukebox isn’t in use, local bands fill the stage. It’s cheap, too: you can get drinks and food like San Miguel at B120, Heineken at B70 and kung chae nam pla (raw prawn in spicy fish sauce) at B100. 110/46, Green Vintage Night Market. 087-112-5251. Open Fri-Sun 6pm-2am. BTS Mo Chit
BK ASK: Why do you prefer shopping at night markets?
Phanpaphon “Pair” Chenchamchoy,
Boripat “Nut” Singkaew,
Nopploy “Aum” Chancheaw,
Juthathip “Sherbet” Hanpanpong,
“Daytime night markets are banal and sweaty. Perhaps I just love the idea of people gathering at night under colorful neon bulbs. It’s eyecandy to me. However, it also comes down to lifestyle—how can I go to a market in the afternoon, let alone morning, when I only got home at 5am after a night in Ekkamai?”
“As a freelancer, I don’t have the schedule of nine-to-fivers. Most of the time I have to work on weekends, too. Night markets just suit my lifestyle. I can hop from my desk at night to grab some items without having to get stuck in ghastly traffic and go back without having to interrupt my work plans.”
“I live in Lam Thong, Chonburi province, where I sell clothes and accessories. During the day, I have to take care of my shop. Night markets are best for me because every weekend after I close my shop, my boyfriend and I can drive here [Chatuchak Night Market] to buy things to take back to sell at my shop. And when you buy things wholesale, they’re way cheaper, too.”
“When you buy certain things like make-up, you can’t just go over to any shop and grab your fake MAC lipstick or Chinese YSL. I started off buying my cosmetics from an outlet store at a night market. The shop only sells authentic make-up kits, and at more affordable price tags. I do spot the fake ones very easily. That’s kept me going back to buy products only from that place. It’s kind of a weird relationship, but I’m sure we all have our own favorite shops.”
23, student
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24, graphic designer
26, clothing business owner
23, make-up artist
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POR
O Kajorn
escapes
Mae Hong Son
TAT
Lampang
AROUND THAILAND
Eat, Walk, Shop Thailand’s most charming walking streets. by Monruedee Jansuttipan and Nareerat Yoddamnoen NORTH
Tha Pae
Phuket
Pai
Pai
SOUTH
When: Fri-Sat 6-10pm. Daily during winter 4-11pm
When: Sunday 6-10pm
Lard Yai
Where: Chaisongkram Road, Pai, Mae Hong Son
When: Sunday 4-10pm
Where: Tha Pae Gate through Ratchadamnoen Road, Chiang Mai
The products on sale at this cute resort town are mostly your typical handicrafts, but there are some unique food vendors to look out for. The shining stars include khao pook (baked black sticky rice, sesame and cane sugar), khai paam (grilled omelet in banana leaf) and the rice vermicelli shop Kanomjeen Nang Yong (28 Moo 3 Chaisongkram Rd., 053-699-385, open daily 9am-9pm), which requires diners to sit on tiny chairs. Another highlight is the live music, including a local policeman who sings and plays guitar in his uniform. Both sides of the walking street have plenty of bars and cafes to choose from, including the Whisky Station Pai drink truck, which offers cheap shots, and the red Volkswagen van of Coffee Mobile.
Where: Thalang Road, Phuket
The largest walking street in Chiang Mai has a distinctly Lanna charm. Starting at the ancient brick wall at Tha Pae Gate, shops line Ratchadamnoen Road until you reach Wat Phra Singh. We especially love the area around Klang Vieng junction. One side is filled with homewares while on the other you’ll find countless arts vendors whose paintings turn the sidewalk into a gallery each night. Another highlight is artists such as the Mai Mueang Group, who play acoustic Lanna songs. Be sure to check out some of the proper shops, too, like Tan by Karuna (127/7 Prapokklao Rd., Sriphum, 053-327-280, 081-568-2881. www.tanbagshop.com), which sells down-to-earth handicrafts and bags. We also like the artistic wares at Things Called Art (111 Prapokklao Rd., 053-327-205, 084-040-8855) and Supachet’s Studio (56/2 Rachadamnoen Rd., 089-950-1329) for paintings. Also check out: Boost your energy for the night with a cup of coffee. Ratchadamnoen Road has a bunch of great places like Akha Ama Coffee (175/1 Ratchadamnoen Rd., 086-915-8600. www. akhaama.com) and Pacamara (Ratchadamnoen Rd., near U Chiang Mai hotel, 053-327-324). If you’re hungry and short of cash, Khao Tom One Baht on Klang Vieng Junction sells until midnight.
Kad Kong Ta When: Sat and Sun 6-10pm Where: Talad Kao Road, Lampang Kad Kong Ta (or Talad Jeen, to locals) was an important port during the time of King Rama V and the center of logging commerce for the Northern region. That’s why two sides of Taladkao contain beautiful wooden houses dating back over 100 years, which used to belong to rich merchants. Walk, shop and eat while admiring the glorious architecture, and be sure to pick up one of the community maps which tells you information about each of the important residences. Also check out: Hor Silp Lampang or Lampang Art Center (256 Taladkao Rd., 054-230-651) holds regular exhibitions. Highlights from the walking tour include Fong Lee House and Mong Ngoay Xin House, which has stunning gingerbread-house-like architecture.
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Also check out: Sit and chill at Jikko Bar (65 Chaisongkram Rd., 4-11pm, 089-112-5473), which is great for people watching. If you’re a music lover, head to Edible Jazz (24/1 Viengtai, Soi Pakam temple, 089-532-6486) which hosts great live music from both local and international bands, while Buffalo Bar Restaurant (Wiang Tai, Pai, 089-797-4241) presents acoustic pop nightly.
Mae Hong Son (Nong Chong Kham)
New market; old town. Lard Yai is the latest attempt by Phuket’s council to bring some life back to Phuket Town’s charming colonial architecture. It’s separated into four zones: souvenirs, local food, activities and a student area. There are plenty of Southern delicacies to try like mee hokkien (Phuket-style noodles), o-aew (herbal jelly in red syrup) and o-tao (stir-fried oysters with eggs and pork crackling) as well as other tuk-tuk “food trucks” selling Western food like burgers, hot dogs and chili dogs. Both students and the local arts community also perform entertainment, including Southern manohra dance. What’s more, the former red light district on Rommanee Road is now home to cool guesthouses like Phuket 346 (9 Soi Rommanee, Thalang Road, 076-256-128) and The Rommanee (15 Soi Rommanee, Thalang Rd., 089-728-9871, 091-825-2435). Also check out: Mac-chiato House (48, Thalang Rd., 076-215-701) does great homemade cake and coffee. In the mood for drinks? Head to Anna’s Phuket Bar & Restaurant (13 Rassada Rd., 076-210535), which serves cold beers in an environment of Chino-Portuguese architecture. It’s just one block away from Thalang Road.
When: Fri-Sat 6-10pm. Daily during winter
Fisherman’s Village
Where: Chong Kham Temple, Mae Hong Son
When: Friday from 5-10pm
None of Thailand’s many walking streets look quite like Mae Hong Son’s Nong Chong Kham. Set up on the street near Chong Kham pond in the middle of town, the small route is set to a stunning backdrop of mountains and temple pagodas reflected in the still pond’s surface. The big difference here is that most sellers come from the Tai Yai or Hmong hill tribes. Don’t leave without trying the traditional Tai Yai desserts suay thamin (baked sticky rice, sugar and coconut milk), peng hmong (Tai Yai cake) and A-lawha (mixed flour, coconut milk and cane sugar)—very rare items elsewhere in the country.
Where: Bophut Beach, Samui
Also check out: Wat Chong Kham and Wat Chong Klang, which are Mae Hong Son’s main temples in the heart of town.
What was once the center of fisherman life on Samui is now better known for its bars, restaurants and walking street stalls. OK, so the street wares at this market aren’t that great—mainly your usual roundup of shell jewelry and tourist tat—but there are some great shops and food stalls around. The cool-red Karma Sutra bar (25 Moo 1 Bophut, Fisherman’s Village, 077-425-198) serves cocktails and plays a decent selection of tunes. If you have more time, the neighboring Mae Nam Walking Street is also worth stopping by on a Thursday night, when live bands play in front of the steps of Mae Nam Shrine. Also check out: Billabong Surf Club (79/2 Moo 1 Bophut, 79/2 Moo 1, Bophut, 077-430-144, 077-430-145, 087-743-0144, ) offers good live music. The Wharf (62 Moo 1, Hotel ibis Samui Bophut, 077-425-500) is a new community mall in the same area, right next to Hansar hotel, which is home to H Bistro (101/28 Moo 1, Bophut, 077-245-511), one of the finest restaurants on the island.
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escapes ESCAPE ROUTES By Monruedee Jansuttipan
CHIANG MAI
New Darling After several years of hype, the boutique hotel by actor Ananda Everyingham, Hotel Yayee (17/5 Sainamphueng Rd., 099 269 5885. fb.com/hotelyayee), is finally open. Deriving its name from the Thai word for “darling,” the hotel has transformed a four-story shop-house into 14 casual but luxurious rooms decorated with Lanna handwoven shawls and carpets from Ananda’s mother’s homeland, Laos. There are only two room types: small (24 sq meters) at B1,900 and big (32 sq meters) at B2,500; both prices are net and include free minibars and breakfast. There’s also a small rooftop terrace where you can order cocktails while enjoying the impressive sunset over Doi Suthep Mountain.
Bubbling Over Chiang Mai’s latest coffee hotspot is Nine One Coffee (Nimmanhaemin Soi 11, 091-775-8405, open daily 8am-10pm). While the cafe may be new, the people behind it are well-known organic coffee growers and roasters, whose 9-1 Organic Coffee Farm is found in the mountainous Doi Saket area. The long drinks list spans espresso (like the wonderful double ristretto, B75), syphon (B200), drip (B100) and French press (B100). Try their house blend, Lanna Paradise, which is made of high-quality beans sourced from plantations around the North.
Red Sea
Tourism Authority of Thailand
PHATTHALUNG
If you missed out on Udon Thani’s Talay Bua Dang (“red lotus sea”) this winter, fear not. Mid-March to April is the perfect time to visit Talay Noi (“small sea”) in the Southern province of Phatthalung, which has its own vast coverage of vibrant red lotus. Thailand’s first wildlife sanctuary is also famous for welcoming more than 150 bird species, some of which migrate to the area from as far off as Siberia. The best way to enjoy this great lake is to rent a boat from the nearby vendors. Call TAT Had Yai (074-231-055) for more information. Read our piece on Thailand’s best lakes and reservoirs at goo.gl/wgVPnq.
PHANG NGA
Heavenly Hideaway Hidden away on 16 rai of greenery on Khuk Khak Beach, The Haven Khao Lak (076-429-900/2, www. thehavenkhaolak.com) offers 110 luxurious rooms, suites and villas. The highlights are the villas which line a massive 5,000 -sq-meter saltwater swimming pool that stretches along the resort’s 380-meter beachfront. The opening rates for March start from B4,500 for a deluxe room, B7,500 for deluxe pool-access room and B12,500 for villa Jacuzzi, all of which include breakfasts. To complete the honeymoon vibe, the resort doesn’t allow guests under 16 years old.
Have some cool rooms? Email your news and promotions to travel@asia-city.co.th
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avenue FASHION
Good Jeans Bangkok custom denim brand Viapiana has opened a proper shop in The Green Connect Complex on Sukhumvit Soi 31. Run by Canadian Ben Viapiana, who first set up his workshop here in 2007, the label specializes in bespoke jeans with serious attention to detail. The process is simple: you choose the fit, type and weight of denim (all nonstretch), stitch color, button fly or zipper, custom details like patches, as well as button and rivet colors. Production takes around 10 business days. The new space is shared with denim importers The Heavy Selection, who use it to showcase their more high-end, one-of-a-kind pieces. Appointments are recommended, but walk-ins are also welcome. Prices start from B6,500. Green Connect, Sukhumvit Soi 31. Open Mon-Sat 12-7pm. www.fb.com/viapianadenim
FASHION
GAME CAFE
BEAUTY
Newly Noted
On Board
Lush Lips
The stationery and leather goods brand from the pages of every fashion mag is finally here. For those who don’t know, Smythson is basically the Laduree of notebooks. Under the direction of Samantha Cameron, wife to the British prime minister, David Cameron, it has grown into one of the world’s top luxury accessories brands, used by celebrity clients from Jessica Alba to Prince Charles. Now available exclusively through Siwilai, the signature Panama notebook is B7,900, while the calf-leather Large Slim purse (pictured) is B27,000. 5/F, Central Embassy, 1031 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-259-5809 ext. 12. Open daily 10am-10pm
More than a Game Café lets you challenge your brain with over 300 board games for everyone from novices to seasoned geeks. On top of the price of food and drink (we recommend the bulgogi pork sandwich waffle, B75; teriyaki chicken sandwich waffle, B75; and caramelized apple crumble, B145), it charges B50 per person for the first hour, B40 for the second hour, and B30 for the third hour onwards. All of the games are for sale, too, while they also run board game workshops to improve leadership and creativity. Special promotions for students every Thursday. 3/F, I’M Park Community Mall, Phayathai Rd. 02-214-4385. Open daily 11am-9pm
After being distributed in Thailand through multi-label beauty giant Sephora, the luxury US skincare brand Fresh will introduce its first standalone store in Thailand at the EmQuartier shopping mall by April. Fresh made its name with lip therapy products made with one key ingredient: sugar. Our recommendations are Sugar Lip Serum Advanced Therapy (an age-defying lips treatment with sugar, kigelia Africana fruit and Acmella flower extract, B1,450) and Sugar Rose Lip Treatment (a lips moisturizer with SPF15 and jojoba oil, B900). Also worth purchasing, Rose Face Mask (a mask with pure rosewater and cucumber extract, B2,400) claims that 100 percent of users experience healthier and stronger skin. 1/F, EmQuatier, Sukhumvit Rd. BTS Phrom Phong. BK Magazine Friday, February 27, 2015
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R&B
Binny navy blue suit, Painkiller, B5,680
Mesh fabric cap, Zara, B890
A mix of red and blue is hot this season, not only on international runways but with Thai designers. Here are our picks. By Vasachol Quadri and Chantich Kongchanmitkul
Maxi dress, Kloset, B28,250
Bubble fabric envelope pouch, Jil Sander, B15,900 Art Class sketch suit, Playhound, B7,990
Waist-cut dress, Sretsis, Price TBA Art Class sketch pants, Playhound, B3,490
Red party bag, Sandro, Price TBA
Calf leather crisscross sandal with buckle, Prada, B37,000 Matte red lipstick, MAC Toledo collection, B920
Essentials Red scarf, Playhound, B1,790 Prada, Spring/Summer 2015
Duo-tone ankle strap wedges, Charles & Keith, B1,990
Louis Vuitton, Spring/Summer 2015
Charles & Keith 2/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-1133 Greyhound 3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-251-4917 Kloset 3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-1729 MAC 3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-0282 Painkiller 3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-1145
Playhound 3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-252-3861 Prada M/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-9860 Sandro 2/F, Central Embassy, Phloen Chit Rd., 02-160-5871 Sretsis 2/F, Central Embassy, Phloen Chit Rd., 02-160-5874 Zara 1/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-9860
BEAUTY Three Top Makeup Classes by Leading Cosmetics Brands
BOBBI BROWN
SHU UEMURA
ILLAMASQUA
Bobbi Brown offers complimentary makeup lessons every time you buy their products, including the Secret to Perfect Skin (20 minutes) and Smokey-Eyes (20 minutes) classes. But if you want something more in-depth, the two-hour Bobbi’s Beauty Workshop (B4,500) will brief you on skin preparation, eye make-up essentials and how to complete your look. It also comes with complimentary products, too. Other classes include Brow Shaping (B1,000/45 minutes) and Party Makeup (B2,500/45minutes).
This eccentric Japanese brand offers three lesson choices: Absolute Beginners, which covers the basics of skin preparation; False Lashes, focusing on eye makeup and how to make fake lashes look natural; and the Customized Class, in which you can pick one specific look to focus on, including nude or party make-up. The latter is only for private bookings of at least four people. All courses are B2,500/person with complimentary products of the same value. Make your reservation at 02-658-0263.
This more theatrical British brand doesn’t run regular classes, but instead holds pop-ups related to new collections at all counters around Bangkok. Recently it held mini workshops for its new red and gold collection at B950 per person with one free lipstick. The next lot of classes will be announced on its Facebook page, where you can also register your seat.
2/F, Siam Discovery, Rama 1 Rd. 02-658-0296. www.bobbibrown.co.th
2/F, Siam Discovery, Rama 1 Rd. 02-658-0263. www.shuuemura.co.th
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Groove at CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd. 02-251-6883. BTS Siam/Chit Lom. www.facebook.com/Illamasqua.th
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1 of A Kind
HOME
Back to the Future Talad Rod Fai (see Cover Story, page 6) may be the place to dig up rare bric-a-brac, but if you want someone else to do the leg-work, here are five top shops for vintage furniture. By Vasachol Quadri
Hall of Fame
Machine Age Workshop
Tuba
Hall of Fame (HOF)
This workshop-cum-cafe specializes in restoring, recycling and repurposing iconic artifacts from America’s golden age of manufacturing, from the late 1800s to mid-1900s. Among the highlights are vintage U.S. Army drafting tables (B116,000), wood radios (starting from B4,000), leather luggage (starting from B4,000) and original Toledo stools (starting from B20,000). They also offer a full rental service on both a short- and long-term basis.
Ever dreamed of having your own life-size statue of Superman? Some of 70s-inspired oddball bric-a-brac at this two-story pub and restaurant is actually for sale. Not only that, there’s a bigger selection across the road at its sister showroom, Papaya. Other reasons to love the place: the nostalgic soundtrack, fiery Thai-inter food (do order the lab moo tod, B160) and potent cocktails served in huge martini glasses.
Patcharameth Napasinchaibun opened this three-story vintage furniture showroom in 2012, after a decade collecting pieces from designers like Charlotte Perriand, Charles and Ray Eames, Joe Colombo and George Nelson. The collection is extensive and largely genuine, with items both for sale and rent ranging from vases and other small knickknacks to wall units and dining sets.
11-12 A, 34 Ekkamai Soi 21, 02-711-5500. Open daily 11-1am. www.design-athome.com
Ekkamai Soi 11, 086-506-6770. www.fb.com/ hof.halloffame
281/7 Ekkamai Soi 15, 02-381-8596. Tue-Sun 10am-7pm. tinyurl.com/phla6ev
1 of A Kind This huge warehouse promises 100-percent vintage Nordic furniture. Expect to see rare chairs and lamps like Gote Moble’s brown leather armchair and Couple Sputnik ceiling lamps. There’s an on-site cafe, too, in case you want to relax before taking the items you’ve found home. Rama 9 Soi 46 (opposite The Nine community m a l l ) , 0 8 1-2 5 5 - 0 0 3 3 . O p e n T h u -Tu e 11am-8:30pm. www.fb.com/1ofakindstyle
Y50
Y50
BONUS SHOP:
Situated directly below the very hip Moose bar, this home decor outlet specializes in Scandinavian items like Ibkofoed Larsen wooden dining sets and chairs by Borg Mogensen and Arne Jacobsen. Owner Pramet Sritongkul also offers restoration services and has recently introduced an on-site coffee bar. For more vintage goodness, there’s a warehouse on Sukhapiban 5 Soi 46, too.
TAILOR-MADE RETRO DESIGN
Hawaii Five-O
For solid-teak reproductions of mid-century classics, this is your go-to place. Chairs, sofas, desks, tables and shelves based on iconic 50s-70s designs can be tailored to your measurements. 34 Ekkamai Soi 21, 08-9170-3900. By appointment only. www.hawaii50bkk.com Tuba
24 Ekkamai Soi 21, 02-711-5629. Open daily 9am-6pm. ow.ly/J7mzS
SHOPPING Where to buy new vintage-style furniture
SEASONS OF LIVING
SB DESIGN SQUARE
CASA PAGODA
Spread over three huge buildings, this Ekkamai store showcases both vintage-style and minimal decor to fit out your trendy industrial-inspired home. The imported furniture comes from countries like Italy and Denmark with brands including Baxter, Barouir & Togo, and Diesel. The 2015 collections have just arrived in-store and our pick is the steel outline hanging lamp from Vibia.
Urbanites might have to travel out to unfamiliar Bang Na, but you can do so safe in the knowledge that SB Design Square has you covered with affordable vintage knock-offs. The three-story venue spans contemporary styles to classic leather sofas and rusty industrial furnishings divided into separate showrooms from brands like French Provence, Cliché Home and Yves Maison. We particularly like the Eco Shop section on the second floor which showcases industrial pieces with touches of wood.
This two-story building at the corner of Sukhumvit Soi 45 hints at its eclectic mix of home decor with its faded brick walls, raw floors and loft-style ceilings. Smaller decorative curios, nightstands and wooden chairs can be found on the first floor, while larger pieces like dining tables, chests of drawers in a distressed silver finish and industrial-chic leather couches take up the second floor.
Ekkamai Soi 20, 02-715-0845. Open daily 10am-7pm. www.seasonsofliving.com
Ample Tower, Bangna Trad Km. 4, 02-744-1111. Open daily 10am10pm. www.sbdesignsquare.com
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Sukhumvit Soi 45, 02-258-1917. Open daily 11am-8pm. www.casapagoda.com
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bites & blends SWEETS
Big Mac Renowned Parisian pastry chain Pierre Herme announced it would be opening its first shop in Southeast Asia in Bangkok last year, and has been keeping the city’s sizeable number of macaron connoisseurs waiting ever since. The shop is set to open its doors at Emquartier this March, but you can already get a taste of the famous macarons by calling 089-365-8888 and pre-ordering them. The brightly colored treats are only available in packages priced at B1,050 for seven, B1,700 for 12, B3,100 for 24 and B3,550 for 20. There are currently seven flavors: four Pierre Herme signatures (rose, caramel, dark chocolate and milk chocolate with passion fruit, aka mogador) and three seasonal flavors (truffle, mandarin orange and green apple-celery). In addition to macarons, you can also order chocolate bonbons at B700/60g, B1,050/120g and B1,500/150g. Pick-up spot: 51/1F Unit 5102-4, CRC Tower, All Seasons Place, 87/2 Wireless Rd., 089-365-8888. BTS Phloen Chit
BRUNCH
WINE
FOOD TRUCK
High Steaks
Vino Veritas
Pizza on Wheels
After a two-year hiatus, the Secret Society Sunday Brunch is back on the menu at JW Marriott’s New York Steakhouse. Instead of a free-for-all buffet, this old-guard steak restaurant has gone in for a classic, four-course, all-American feast: seafood tower, Caesar salad and your choice of steak (with a few fish and lamb choices for non-beef-eaters), followed by dessert like cheesecake, baked Alaska or apple pie. At B2,400 net (not including alcohol) it isn’t cheap, but the food is right up there, from the Barrow Point Boston oysters to the CAB prime American fillet mignon draped in foie gras. Three glasses of wine costs B950 or free-flow for B1,350. 2/F, JW Marriott, 4 Sukhumvit Soi 2, 02-656-7700. Brunch every Sunday from 11:30am-2:30pm. BTS Phloen Chit
Riesling importer It’s Riesling (www.facebook.com/itsriesling) has launched a new product range, Le Vin Authentique, comprising two selections of wines from two different parts of France. The Rhône package (B4,400) consists of a 2010 Santa Duc Les Vieilles Vignes and a 2012 Daumen Côtes du Rhône from Southern Rhône, plus a 2012 Jean Michel Gerin La Champine and a 2012 Alain Graillot Crozes Hermitage from the North. The Languedoc package (B4,400), meanwhile, features bottles from the country’s largest wine producing region, including a 2011 Mas des Chimères Cuvée Marie et Joseph, a 2012 Pas de l’Escalette Les Petits Pas, a 2011 Cébène Ex Arena and a 2011 Cébène Les Bancels. Order at www. itsriesling.com or 080-808-4478.
New food truck Pizza Massilia stems from a collaboration between two French and Italian powers, namely French restaurateur Frederic Meyer (Issaya Siamese Club and Namsaah Bottling Trust) and Italian chef Luca Apino (La Bottega di Luca). And the pizza is pretty amazing. In addition to the classic margherita (B250/400), other options include spicy andouja and garlic (B380), the French-inspired la ratatouille (B400) and baby squid provencal (B300). Drinks range from limonata and orangeade to wine and Italian draft beer. It’s currently calling Sala Daeng’s MK Gold parking lot home, where it sits under the shade of a few 100-year-old trees. MK Gold Parking Lot, Soi Sala Daeng, Silom Rd, 02-259-9294. Open Tue-Sun 5:30pm-10pm. www.pizzamassilia.com
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blends
Octagon
ROUNDUP
New Nightlife Five new drinking spots to check out right now. By Vasachol Quadri
Roof 409 Bar & Bistro
Tanino Lamborghini Lounge
Tonino Lamborghini Lounge
The Vault
This luxurious spot in Ekkamai is the Lamborghini brand’s first lounge in Southeast Asia, and already welcomes the city’s swanky set. The futuristic, red-lit venue sits behind the Horizon Building on Soi Ekkamai, and tries to be a bit of everything. It starts the day as a brunch spot with a straightforward menu of panini, wraps (both from B170) and, of course, eggs Benedict (B230), to be enjoyed along with Lamborghini-branded coffee. Evenings see the menu extend to tuna tatare (B240) and slowcooked pork medallion (B270) plus pizza and pasta (from B260). The drinks highlight is the Tonino Lamborghini vodka, but we recommend just sidling up to the bartender and letting him mix something to match your mood.
There’s been many changes to Bangkok’s longest-standing nightclub, Q Bar, since its 15th birthday bash late last year. Not only was the second floor renamed Q Up, but the first floor has turned into a laidback tapas bar called Azura. Now the old dancefloor has been transformed into yet another 1920s speakeasy-inspired lounge, The Vault. After passing through a big round door and a bare-brick arched corridor, you’ll be greeted by a swinging, live jazz soundtrack every Thursday and Sunday nights. The bar focuses on whiskey and classic cocktails, plus Cuban cigars. Entrance is B500 (two drinks) on Sunday, B700 from Tue-Thu (two drinks) and B1,000 on Fri-Sat (three drinks).
The Civic Horizon Building, Sukhumvit Soi 63 (Ekkamai), 083-0404787. Open daily 10am-1am. www.fb.com/tonino.lamborghiniTH
Roof 409 Bar & Bistro Sharing the same rooftop as Octagon (see right), this French bistro and bar offers a more happening vibe thanks to a clean black-and-white industrial décor and a DJ booth that pumps out house tunes. During the daytime, it opens for lunch to offer a special menu announced each morning on Facebook, which spans everything from pasta to tortillas, priced at B240 along with French fries, salad and a soft drink. As for drinks, Thursday is mojito night with glasses priced from B150-250. 4/F, Mercury Ville, 504 Phloen Chit Rd., 081-995-6984. Open daily 11am-midnight. BTS Chit Lom. ow.ly/JeYVg
34 Sukhumvit Soi 11, 082-308-3246. Open Tue-Sun 9pm-2am. www.fb.com/VaultBangkok
Mustache Bar Moving away from Sukhumvit to one of Bangkok’s former nightlife hotspots, Ratchada, this new opening packs a lot into its three-story shop-house setting. The first floor has a dive bar feel with a few retro 60s touches in the form of framed newspapers and old sofas. On the second floor there’s an Indian-inspired bar, while the rooftop operates as an open-air beer garden. Expect Thai-fusion dishes, Hoegaarden on tap and a long list of Belgian bottles like Triple Karmeliet, Kwak, Duvel and Vedett. 544/5 Ratchada Soi 7, 083-016-9033. Open daily 8pm-2am. www.fb.com/themustache.bangkok
The Vault
Octagon This brand new rooftop bar sits modestly on the fourth floor of The Mercury Ville community mall. Co-founded by Prabt Aurpatcharphon, of Glur Bangkok Hostel and Coffee Bar, the bar is decked out in the requisite fake grass and rattan benches, conjuring a laidback garden vibe—think Thonglor’s Wanderlust. Explaining the name, an octagon-shaped open bar sits at the venue’s center. The food is international fusion, including beer-friendly choices like deepfried seafood (B490), spaghetti garlic and dried chili (B180) and barbecue sausage (B180). Asahi is available on tap and they claim to serve it extra cold at -2 degree Celsius (B200). Head a little early on Mon-Thu for their buy-one-get-one-free deal on cocktails from 5-9pm, which include the signature Take Me Out (B250) and Old Fashioned (B250). The 360-degree urban views of Chit Lom aren’t bad, either. 4/F, Mercury Tower, 504 Phloen Chit Rd., 088-842-4044. Open daily 5pm-midnight. BTS Chit Lom. www.fb.com/octagonbar
ON THE BAR Yoichi Nikka The buzz: Solemnly toned and moodily lit, this bar and restaurant is a high-end addition to the great array of Japanese bars around Sukhumvit Soi 39. It’s the first venture outside of Japan by APR Trading Group, which is behind more than 30 restaurants in Hokkaido, and specializes in food and drinks from the country’s northernmost island. The main draw is the whiskey, which is a different selection from next door’s Hanakaruta, and includes Takesuru 17 Years Old (B400), named the World’s Best Blended Malt Whisky 2014 at the World Whiskies Awards 2014. The decor: This low-key modern izakaya is dominated by a huge wooden bar that’s paired with brown leather armchairs rather than the normal high stools. A round red couch sits in one corner for more intimate group drinks. There are more proper dining tables on the second floor, while the third and fourth floors are set aside for private karaoke. The music: Like many Japanese bars, there’s not much effort put into the soundtrack. Instead, you’re encouraged to make your own noise with karaoke upstairs.
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The crowd: Mostly Japanese executives, plus Bangkok’s whiskey explorers spilling in from other bars in the neighborhood. The food & drink: The bar’s focus is on Hokkaido whiskey, mostly single malt (Yoichi and Miyagikyo) and pure malt (Taketsuru). Aside from the highly-touted Takesuru 17 Years Old, we like the tasting flights which cover three different periods in the whiskey maturation process. The Taketsuru set (B700) consists of 12-year, 17-year and 21-year whiskey, while the Yoichi Set (B700) consists of 10-year, 12-year and 15-year. The shelves are lined with many more choices by the glass, also from other countries, from Woodford Reserve Bourbon (B290) to Taketsuru Pure Malt 25-year old (B1,300). All are served with a handcrafted ice-ball. As for the food, you can order Hokkaido dishes like grilled king crab (B740) or melt-in-your-mouth sushi wagyu nigiri (B280). Do make sure you try the homemade chocolate mix with Takesuru whiskey (B30) after your meal, too. Vasachol Quadri 6/11 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-662-4270. Open Mon-Sun 4pm-1am. www.fb.com/yoichi.nikkabar.restaurant
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bites KOREAN
Hansik 101
A guide to 10 of the most popular Korean dishes, and where to eat them in Bangkok. By Natcha Sanguankiattichai* Myeong Ga
Jang Won
Dak Galbi
Korean Spoon
Bibim House
Red Sun
Dak Galbi
1. Gogigui
3. Samgyetan
6. Gimbap
9. Seolleongtang
What: Commonly referred to as Korean barbecue or grill. The most famous cut is galbi (short rib), prepared in a wang galbi style (filleted in layers away from the bone). The meat is cut into bite-size morsels after being cooked—done by wait staff in most restaurants. You can either dip it in sauce, eat it alone or wrap it in lettuce along with sides.
What: This reenergizing ginseng chicken soup is traditionally served during summer time. It’s usually made from a whole chicken stuffed with ginseng, jujubes, sweet rice and whole garlic cloves. The soup is packed with flavors and nutrients.
What: Derived from Japanese futomaki (a type of rolled sushi), gimbap (or kimbap) comprises steamed rice seasoned with sesame oil, and other ingredients (mainly carrot, spinach and pickled radish) rolled in dried seaweed sheets, seasoned with sesame and served in bite-size slices. Gimbap is usually eaten as a snack with kimchi to bring out the flavors.
What: If you’re a Korean drama fan, you’re no doubt familiar with the recurring scenes of lead actors and actresses sharing their warm soup together amid snowy, white winter scenes. Seolleongtang, or ox bone soup, is made from various parts of the ox, including brisket, head, feet and entrails, simmered over a low flame till the flavor from the bone is extracted, giving the soup a milky look.
Where: While barbecue is extremely common among Bangkok’s Korean restaurants, we particularly like Jang Won (1/F, Sukhumvit Plaza, 212/9-10 Sukhumvit Soi 12, 02 251-2636) thanks to their specialized chef who takes care of the meat at his open station.
2. Jjigae What: Jjigae is similar to Western stew—vegetables, meat or seafood cooked in a seasoned broth. The most popular version is probably kimchi jjigae made with kimchi (fermented vegetables) and seasoned with doenjang (bean paste) or gochujang (red pepper paste). Most restaurants serve jjigae in a hot stone pot and you should eat it while it’s still sizzling. Where: We especially like the seafood option of kimji jjigae at Kimchi Hour (110/5 Soi Ari Samphan, 02-619-5196) with its thick, satisfying broth.
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Where: Myeong Ga (1/F, Shukhumvit Plaza, 212/16 Sukhumvit Soi 12, 02-229-4658) does the traditional samgyetang just right.
4. Bingsu
Where: The well-stuffed gimbap at The Bibimbab (G/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-7732).
What: This shaved ice dish topped with chunks of fresh melon or peach is one of the most Instagrammed desserts in Bangkok right now. Bingsu is similar to our naam kang sai (shaved ice dessert) and you can jazz up your fluffy ice with a variety of syrups and toppings—the classic is sweetened azuki beans.
What: The popular savory snack among teenagers is made from tteok (glutinous rice cake) stir-fried with vegetables, fish cake and gochujang (red chili sauce). Our tip: enjoy it while it’s warm— tteok doesn’t reheat well in the microwave.
Where: Give it a try at the new, and very popular, Seobinggo (Siam Square Soi 7, 086-3944245) with the mango cheese bingsu.
Where: Korean-hailing Red Sun (Chula Soi 64, next to Chula Book Center, 02-252-1395) specializes in this popular dish.
5. Japchae
8. Tteokbokki
What: This Korean staple is a combination of stir-fried glass noodles with beef, vegetables and sesame oil. It looks pretty much like our pad woon sen (stir-fried glass noodle), but the scent of sesame oil and the bigger and chewier glass noodles make a huge difference.
What: Another popular dish among teenagers is this stir-fried chicken in gochujang sauce along with tteok and vegetables. Dak galbi is served on a hot plate and is usually stir-fried at your table. Since it’s generally comes in a large pan, it’s ideal for sharing.
Where: Head to Korean Spoon (2/F, Crystal Design Center, 1420/1 Praditmanutham, 02-102-2385) to try the traditionally cooked japchae.
Where: Have fun with your friends tucking into this chicken dish at the aptly named Dak Galbi (414/9 Henri Dunant Rd., 02-623-4224).
7. Dak Galbi
Where: Try it at LA Bukchangdong Soondubu (1/F, Ploenchit Center, Sukhumvit Soi 2, 02-6568825).
10. Bibimbap What: Rice topped with vegetables, meat and egg. Bibimbap literally means mixed rice. Opt for a dolsot bibimbap (served in a hot stone pot) to keep the dish hot. Season your rice with sauce and mix in all the ingredients. Let it cook till the rice forms crunchy layers on the bottom of the bowl and then enjoy. Where: Bibim House’s (81 Midway Point, Ratchadapisek Rd., 086-990-1641) offers a range of bibimbaps including the bestselling dwaejigogi (grilled pork) option. *Special Thanks to Palida Phimphakorn, author of Korean Restaurant Guide Bangkok for her assistance. Palida’s free guide to Bangkok’s best Korean restaurants is available as a mobile-app (iOS and Android) and in hard copy at the Korean Culture Center and the Korean Embassy.
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bites
OPEN DOOR
Metro on Wireless Thai and Western comfort food in a brand new hotel. The buzz: The new restaurant at Hotel Indigo, the recently opened boutique property by Intercontinental Hotel Group, mixes both Thai and Western comfort food classics, all prepared by chef Chamlong “Jimmy” Pewthaisong, the former head chef of Banyan Tree’s Celadon. The decor: Metro on Wireless’s dining room is the one part of the hotel that doesn’t stick to a subtle Thai theme. Modern, rectangular wooden tables and plush, upholstered chairs and sofas make for an environment that’s luxurious but fun. While decorative pieces like the metal latticework and chandeliers look quite Chinese, the bare-brick dessert bar on one side of the room is pure New York. The food: Though there are a few Western dishes, the menu clearly puts most of its attention on Thai favorites. The lunch menu starts at
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a work-hour-friendly B95 for somtam, while one-dish main courses like Thai rice noodles with crabmeat curry are B180. There are also a few things to share, such as the chicken green curry (B250/380) and wok-fried chicken with cashew nuts and dried chili (B220/350), both served with rice. Dinner covers a wide range of Thai classics but also sees the chef make rare, regional dishes like kao gun jin nam prik orng (Northern-style steamed rice in blood, served with minced pork chili sauce, B170). Ian Kittichai, one of the hotel group’s culinary ambassadors, has also contributed a few menu items, such as the red curry with roasted duck and pineapple (B270) and Southern-style stir-fried minced pork with poached egg (B220). Over at the dessert bar, you’ll find Thai desserts including mango sticky rice (B190) and the less-well-known kao gra ya koo (young rice pudding flavored with pandan, B190).
The drinks: There’s a wide variety, from fresh juice (starting at B110) and shakes (starting at B110) to beers (Singha and Heineken starts at B160), cider (B210) and wine (starting at B190 per glass and B950 per bottle), as well as a few gimmicks, like the Ovaltine Volcano (Ovaltine milkshake topped with Ovaltine powder, B120) served in an aluminum cup—a common favorite among Thai school kids. The crowd: Hotel guests and the Wireless Road business crowd. Natcha Sanguankiattichai
2/F, Hotel Indigo, 81 Wireless Rd., 02-207-4999. BTS Phloen Chit
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TABLE TALK Another Hound Cafe
Moodz
NEW AND NOTED
Old Dog, New Tricks
The latest branch of the Greyhound spinoff Another Hound Cafe (1/F, Emporium, 622 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-664-8663) is now open on the first floor of the freshly-revamped Emporium. Boasting a suitably high-end look, the cafe puts the focus on fusion Italian-Asian dishes, ranging from Canadian lobster spaghetti with white wine (B1,290) to the "crab bomb" with rice (stir-fried crab meat with yellow chili, B450). There’s also a Champagne bar offering Moet & Chandon Imperial at B4,000/bottle. Exclusive privileges for Citibank credit cardmembers. Get 10% discount on food only for Citibank Ultima, Preferred, Select, Citibank Rewards, Platinum Rewards, and Citibank Gold (Today – 31 Oct 15)
Rum BKK
In a break from Bangkok’s current single-malt obsession, Spanish/Cuban spirits brand Bacardi has launched its new brown rum,
Bacardi 8 Anos. The bottle blends Bacardi rum aged between 8-16 years in an oak cask and finished in a sherry cask. This maturation process gives the rum a brown color with balanced notes of caramel and plum. It’s good enough to be enjoyed on the rocks, just like whiskey, but at Ekkamai cocktail specialists Sugar Ray (Baan Ekkamai, Ekkamai Soi 21. 086-547-4633) you can also taste it in classic drinks like the Old Fashioned, Old Cuban and rum julep.
Mildly Moody
Designed by Bensley Design Studio’s Brian Kent Sherman, Moodz (308 Sukhumvit Soi 55, 02-170-8440. BTS Thong Lo) is a new dinner and drinks spot situated on the corner of Thonglor Soi 10. The decor is a mix of wood, turquoise and colorful Jazz Age-evoking paintings. Claiming to sit somewhere between fine and casual dining, it serves European dishes with global touches; highlight is the tuna tartare with crispy shallots and horseradish dressing (B300). Natcha Sanguankiattichai
The Capital by Water Library The Capital by Water Library, Empire Tower/F, 3, Narathiwas Rd., 02-286-9548 Part of Water Library’s ever diversifying list of restaurants, The Capital by Water Library has a much more low-key vibe than the brand’s original venues. This refined, vintage bank-themed steakhouse offers a menu spanning premium cuts of beef that start at a quite modest B750, as well as plenty of seafood sourced both locally and from around the world. The musttries are the “Capital” beef tartar (B490) which comprises chopped wagyu steak, egg yolk and the chef’s own chipotle sauce, and the deconstructed banoffee tart (B290). The great range of wines starts from B890 per bottle while their signature Campari-and-Aperol martini (B245) is refreshing but packs a kick. Exclusive privileges for Citibank credit cardmembers. Get 20% discount on food only (Today – 31 Apr 15)
To redeem your favorite dining vouchers, please visit www.citirewards.com. Simply click “Thailand” and then “Gift voucher”
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BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2015
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bites & blends market Events
Deals
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 and artisanal products.
Candlelit Dinner To celebrate Earth Hour 2015, Scalini offers a candlelit dinner with live acoustic music and other entertainment. Bottles of wine are on 50-percent discount.
Siam Square One, Rama 1 Rd. BTS Siam
TGIF Market (Thank God it’s Flea Market) With a new theme of “Playground for Urbanista,” the successful pop-up market brings together foodie shops, celebrity stalls, the biggest Instagram fashion vendors and some great local designers. Expect hundreds of tents taking over the entire square of CentralWorld. CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd. BTS Chidlom
1/F Hilton Sukhumvit, 18/1 Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02-649-6699
Sky-high Sparkling Red Sunday Every Sunday evening, appear with red clothes on at The Roof@38th Bar and get a free welcome Campari cocktail. Mode Sathorn 38/F, Mode Sathorn, 144 Sathorn Rd., 02-623-4555. BTS Surasak
Hemingway’s From 12-8pm, Sat-Sun, all house spirits are just B100. Come between 4-6pm on Tue for half price on all small plates. Sukhumvit Soi 14, 02-653-3900. Open daily 11:30-1am. BTS Asok
Advertise your business with us starting from B5,000
New Venues Pizza Massilia The blue pizza truck serves French-Italian twists with premium imported ingredients courtesy of La Bottega di Luca’s chef. Flow
The King of Eggs Italy’s “Egg Master” chef Paolo Parisi, brings his famed eggs from goat milk-fed hens to Bangkok for a one-day-only appearance at Millenium Hilton’s Brunch on the River @ Flow (Sun Mar 1, 11am-4pm). Enjoy cocktails and canapes with signature dishes from all the hotel’s restaurants. B2,200 for food only or B3,200 with free-flow wine and sparkling.
Email sales@asia-city.co.th or call 026249601
MK Gold Parking Lot, Soi Sala Daeng, Silom Rd.
Touka Sala Daeng’s new glass-house izakaya joint specializes in a wide range of grilled skewers and sake. 75/1 Sala Daeng Soi 1, 02-236-8230. BTS Sala Daeng
Pasta & Pool The bar serves pastas and drinks by an outdoor sundeck and pool. Lit Bangkok Residence 36/1 Soi Kasemsan 1, Rama 1 Rd., 02-612-3456. BTS National Stadium
Millennium Hilton, 123 Charoennakorn Rd, 02-442-2000
Happy Hours Pink Thursday Launched at the end of last month, Bangkok Betty’s brand new ladies night gets you three free cocktails from the choice of margarita, mojito and long island through 10pm. DJs V:2K12 and Crooze Kutz provide the hip-hop and R&B. G/F Holiday Inn, 1 Sukhumvit Soi 22, 02-663-4223. BTS Phrom Phong
Coming Soon in March Eatdustry
Eatdustry Thonglor’s new all-day breakfast joint turns into a bar later in the day. 555/55 Thonglor Soi 19, 081-567-5544
Tales of Gold Mine The new fusion addition to Groove features Californian gold mine-inspired grub with Western and Chinese influences. 1/F, Groove @ CentralWorld, Rama 1 Rd.,02613-1270. BTS Siam
YouBahn
YouBahn Daily buy-one-get-one-free on house wine by the glass or buy-two-getone-free Singha beer from 6:30 8pm. Soi Phra Chen, Wireless Rd., 095-5469163. MRT Lumphini
Who’s going to make the cut this year? Sign up for Bites & Blends e-newsletter to get more updates www.bkmagazine.com/ newsletters
Metro on Wireless Thai and Western comfort food in a brand new hotel featuring an afternoon-till-late dessert bar. 2/F Hotel Indigo, 81 Wireless Rd., 02-2074999. BTS Phloen Chit
Taper The new brunch spot by the chef behind the creative Thai restaurant Le Du, serving Asian twists on all-day breakfast. 44/11 Thonglor Soi 13, 099-929-5464
updates on Bangkok’s dining scene THE BITES & BLENDS NEWSLETTER The latestwww.bkmagazine.com/newsletters BK Magazine Friday, February 27, 2015
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bites FOOD REVIEWS
Kiani HHHH Korean. 1/F, Fifty Fifth Plaza, 90 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 02-714-7330. Open daily 11am-9pm. BTS Thong Lo. B-BB F
Kiani is known among Bangkok’s Korean lovers for two things—its home-style dishes and the adorable oppa (Korean for brother) who owns the place. Located on the first floor of Thonglor’s relatively quiet Fifty Fifth Plaza, the restaurant catches your eye with a cut-out of the chef owner out front. Inside is simply decorated with green wallpaper, some random tree stickers and clean-looking wooden table sets. The menu, too, keeps things basic with common Korean dishes like bibimbap (mixed rice, B179), pajeon (Korean pancake, B189) and gimbap (Korean sushi roll, B159), which each come in a few different flavors. The fried chicken (B89/159) served with fries is crispy, yet
Le Petit Zinc HHHH French. 15/1 Yen Akart Rd., 02-249-5572. Open daily 11:30am-2pm, 6-10pm. Corkage B500. BB-BBB F
The second venue from the Le Petit Zinc team (the first one on Sukhumvit Soi 23 is now under different management as Comptoir Eiffel) characterizes the distinction between Soi Yen Akart and its neighbor, Soi Sri Bumphen. Both the low-key French bistro menu and well-dressed, family clientele are a world away from the singletwearing sex tourist element found just round the corner. For that reason alone, it’s a ve r y we l co m e a d d i t i o n to t h e neighborhood. Compared to the original Le Petit Zinc, this venue is also much more daytime friendly, thanks to the modest, glasshouse-style dining room and bar with its faux-nautical touches like rope-clad pillars and fisherman ornaments, as well as some neatly priced lunchtime sets (which also run on the weekend). It’s not cutting 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.
too floury, overly sweet and too dry—we were gulping down the complimentary water on our last visit. The cheese tteokbokki (soft rice cake, B229) comes with mozzarella cheese, a hard-boiled e g g , to f u a n d s a u s a g e — a n d t h e combination is a little weird. The tteok is too chewy, while the dish as a whole is strangely sweet. Also, the bibimbap (B179) comes with a runny fried egg instead of the raw egg we’re familiar with. Like at most other Korean restaurants, the waitress mixes the rice for you right at your table. We like the well-balanced seasoning, which features plenty of sesame. The real highlight, though, is the gimbap (B159), which also comes with a good amount of sesame and is stuffed with tasty fillings like spinach, carrot, cucumber and fried egg. We must also give credit to the wait staff who attentively refill our side dishes—the radish kimchi is seriously addictive, too. At the end of your meal, chances are you’ll get a visit from the charming owner—looking a little older than in the promo photos. Afterwards, they’ll serve you a complimentary bowl of rice water for a sweet but nonetheless satisfying finish to your visit. Though nothing spectacular, Kiani is a safe, walletfriendly option for Korean food in Thonglor.
edge, but it’s a comfortable, welcoming space, made nicer thanks to the friendly staff. The menu is bistro from top to bottom, and a pretty affordable bistro at that. The skirt steak with shallot sauce and French fries, for example, costs just B390, and even at that price they do a decent job. The meat is flavorsome and, given that it’s a no-frills cut, pretty tender, while the fries are thick and generously portioned (but a bit lacking in flavor). The onion soup under puff pastry is also a pocket-friendly B250. The billowing, buttery crust is delicious, though the soup itself does taste like it’s lacking something—perhaps a decent glug of wine. The goat cheese on toast with an aubergine and zucchini salad (B350) comes with ample slabs of goat cheese and an equally well-portioned salad, but the vegetables are a little wet and tasteless. Dessert is the only area we can’t find fault. Our creme brulee with raspberry sorbet (B210) has a hot, brittle crust that’s not so thick you fear for your teeth, while the inside is light, moist and well flavored with plenty of vanilla. The lengthy wine menu has clearly had some care put into it, too, and includes some delicious (and suitably French) options by the glass. Try the B225 Malbec. Le Petit Zinc is the kind of place we’d happily spend an afternoon with friends, but regret booking for a special occasion. Anyone living in Lower Sathorn and seeking a solid neighborhood option could do much, much worse.
Under B500 B500-900 B900-1,500 B1,500 and up Price per person, including one drink, appetizer, main course, dessert, charges and tax.
Symbols
H Reservations recommended F Parking available E Dress requirements G Live music
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now Friday Feeling The shopping malls are moving in on our weekend markets. On Feb 28-Mar 1, the courtyard in front of CentralWorld turns into the latest edition on Thank God it’s Flea Market, promising over two hundred tents offering the latest fashion items by premium local brands and Instagram shops. There’ll also be 40 food stalls including some of our favorites, like Daniel Thaiger, Bao & Buns, Chu and Salapao Ko Ouan. See HAPPENINGS, page 40.
Travel Time Planning ahead for the summer? Grab a bargain on flights, accommodation and spas all over Thailand and the region at The 16th Thai International Travel Fair 2015 until Mar 1, or head to the mega-popular 34th Thai Teaw Thai tourism fair (Mar 5-8), both at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. See HAPPENINGS, page 40.
Ladies First The Go Grrrls’ resident DJs Maehappyair, Dookie and Cleo have put together one of Bangkok’s few new club nights we actually look forward to. Catch their next performance at Wine Bibber Sangria this Friday night (Feb 28). The regular lineup of indie, rock and electro tunes is this time given a 2006-7 slant. See NIGHTLIFE, this page.
All that Jazz The last winter-fest of the season takes over the central lawn of the National Gallery from 4:30pm onwards this Feb 28. The Winter Jazz & Arts Festival features live performances by Dome’s Project, Super Goods, Siriwat & The Siamese Cats and Goten Cruise, as well as art displays by Silpakorn students. This is also your last chance to see the beautiful photographs of Siam: Through the Lens of John Thomson, taking place inside the gallery. See MUSIC, page 36 and ART, page 40.
Gypsy Days No need to head out of town this weekend for a hippy festival. The next one takes place at Viva Aviv this Saturday, Feb 28. Dress up and enter Lalaland for a day of music, art, organic treats and cocktails, with an on-site gypsy market and fortune-tellers. See MUSIC, page 36.
NIGHTLIFE Dope as Funk "Boombox Classics" DJs Luck-E, Karl Andy and Unda take over Wine Bibber's disco floor, with support from guest DJ Tommy Nori. Feb 27, 10pm. Wine Bibber Sangria, Ekkamai Soi 2, 02-7140709. B300 (one free drink). BTS Ekkamai.
The EDM-focused party organizer returns to the club with DJs Darkdong, Riviere, Papew and Madk. Feb 28, 9pm. Grease, Opposite Villa Supermarket, 46/12-13 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-662-6120-1. Free.
Dubway Sessions x Dark Bar
Sunblock Pool Party by Drunken Monkeys
A special house, techno and heavy bass session at the new addition to Ekamai Mall, with DJs Dragon and Vivian. Feb 27, 10pm. Dark Bar, 2/F, Ekamai Mall, Ekkamai Soi 10, 02-381-9896, 090-528-4646. Free. Polycat
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Itch Animal Rave Electronic Dance Music
The first pool party by the Drunken Monkeys collective, featuring a DJ lineup of Georges Lg, Bosz Overbrothers, Mongkiiz and Kzcatz. Expect Latin house, electro and hip-hop, with plenty of burgers and drinks. Feb 28, 2pm. Radisson Blu Plaza Bangkok, 489 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-302-3333. B300 (one free drink). BTS Asok.
Go Grrrls: Safari Disco Go Grrrls' party features a 2006-7 theme, with three resident DJs spinning disco and electro. Expects lots of neon and animal prints. Feb 28, 10pm. Wine Bibber Sangria, Ekkamai Soi 2, 02-714-0709. B200 (Go Grrrls Nu-Rave badge). BTS Ekkamai.
Retox Sessions Presents Gaiser DJ Gaiser, known for his sound/visual multi-sensory live sets, debuts in Bangkok, supported by Sunju Hargun. Tickets will be available at the door. Mar 3, 9pm. Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-261-3007, 02261-4446. MRT Sukhumvit.
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now The One & Only 10 years of Aof Pongsak Concert
LIVE IN BANGKOK
The Academy Fantasia finalist performs two rounds of full-scale solo concerts, including the biggest hits from his 10-year music career. Mar 14-15, 7pm. Royal Paragon Hall, 5/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-8023. B1,500-3,500 from Thaiticketmajor.
The world’s biggest acts keep on coming. Here are some of the famous names taking over Impact Arena in the coming months.
classical BSO 2015: Clara-Jumi Kang plays Saint-Saens
Clara-Jumi Kang
NIGHTLIFE/CONTINUED VETERAN ROCKERS
After a relatively quiet period, alt-rockers Incubus are back in the spotlight with a new single and four-track EP, Trust Fall, set for release on Mar 24. To celebrate, they're making a stop in Bangkok this Mar 11 for a one-night performance. Tickets are B1,500-3,000, available on Thaiticketmajor.
Carhartt presents "Tempo Live!" Black White and Techno: Live Streaming of Underground Music Night Out DJs Montonn Jira, Nolens. Volens, Sunju Hargun and Krit Morton spin underground techno. Live streaming of the music session will be available to watch at www.tempobkk.com. Mar 6, 7:30pm. Groove, Rama 1 Rd., 02-264-5555. B300 (one free drink). BTS Siam.
Phatfunk Drum & Bass feat. Eveson This month's drum n' bass night features British DJ Eveson, who'll be spinning soulful and groove-driven bass music alongside the usual Phatfunk resident DJs Azek, DeLorean, Instinct and Orawan. Mar 6, 9pm. Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-261-3007, 02-261-4446. B450 (one free drink). MRT Sukhumvit.
COFFEE HOUSE KING
The San Diego coffee-shop guitar player-turned-mega star Jason Mraz will be doing what he does best on Mar 21, when he performs to an audience of 5,000 in Bangkok (sorry, all the tickets are sold out already). Supporting him will be Raining Jane, his collaborators on Yes!, the newly-released album.
Thaibreak Presents The Beat of Berlin The party organizer lands in Bangkok for a wild and sweaty dance party, with DJs Pascal Feos, Animal Trainer, Niko Schwind, Kellerkind and Domenic D'Agnelli. Free entry for ladies. Mar 7, 9pm. Ku De Ta, 39/F, Sathorn Square Complex, 98 Sathorn Rd., 02-108-2000. B400 (one free drink). BTS Chong Nonsi.
Retox Sessions Presents Firebeatz The Dutch EDM duo who have remixed for Rihanna and Flo Rida, as well as collaborated with Snoop Dogg and Sean Paul, debut in Bangkok at the popular RCA club. Mar 12, 9pm. Onyx, Soi Soonvijai, Rama 9 Rd. Free.
MUSIC
gigs Polycat Tabasco Therovers BLAST FROM THE PAST
They may have hit their peak in the 90s, but that doesn’t stop us being excited to hear that The Backstreet Boys are in Bangkok for the first time in 10 years this May 6, as part of their In a World Like This Tour. Expect the guys to take you through their biggest hits, like “I Want it That Way” and “As Long as you Love Me.” Tickets will be available on Thaiticketmajor (date TBC) at B1,800-B5,500.
A night of live 80s music inspired by Funky Wah Wah, performed by local groups Polycat,Tabasco and The Rovers. Feb 28, 9pm. Moose Bangkok, 24 Ekkamai Soi 21, 02108-9550. B200.
Urban Kilimanjaro Chladni Chandi play their Indian-influenced psych rock, with support by Philosopher Brothers and Strange Brew. Tickets available at the door. Feb 28, 6pm. 1979 Vinyls and Unknown Pleasures, 4/F, Black Amber (inside the soi at the corner of Kiatnakin Bank, between sois 5 and 7), Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). B100.
Don't Sit Down: "As I Like to See It" De Glamingo open this night of indie performances, followed by Poomjit, Monomania, Secret Tea Party and Medicine Men, as well as special sessions from Dsdpeople and DJ Ohhcomeon. Feb 28, 7pm. Play Yard by Studio Bar, Lad Phrao Soi 8, 081-173-3616. MRT Phahon Y0thin. B250.
Boy Thai Band in the Park NEW QUEEN OF POP
Thai fans need to act fast to get tickets to see Katy Perry: The Prismatic World Tour 2015 this May 14, what is said to be the artist’s biggest and best concert production to date. We’re expecting another sell out. The artist has topped charts all over the world with hit after hit since 2008’s “I Kissed a Girl,” and now ranks as one of the best-selling artists of all time. Tickets are B2,000-B6,500, on sale on Thaiticketmajor from Feb 28. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4455
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Thai fusion band plays samba, reggae, hip-hop and R&B in the park, using traditional Thai instruments, with guest guitarist Kiti Guitar Gun. More information at 02-234-0147. Mar 1, 5:30pm. Lumpini Park, Rama 4. MRT Lumphini. Free.
Words in Ears #2 - Holiday The art space/cafe hosts the second installment of its spoken word evening for aspiring poets and improvisers. The theme this time is Holiday.
Expect a friendly and supportive atmosphere. Mar 5, 7pm. Bridge, Charoenkrung Soi 51, 086-986-9421. Free. BTS Saphan Taksin.
Feedback A rocking lineup of The Sangsom Massacre, Count the Thief, Kamp Krusty and Fathers of Medicine. Mar 6, 7pm. Skytrain Jazz Pub, 5/F, 6 Rangnam Rd., 02-640-0303. BTS Victory Monument.
Lose Control Electro-pop tunes by three indie groups from Comet Records: Casinotone, Naked Astronaught and Unda. Show starts at 10pm. Mar 7, 8pm. Moose Bangkok, 24 Ekkamai Soi 21, 02-108-9550. Free.
Extreme Maniac Underground Metal Fest 2015 Five hours of metal rock by Break the Kids, Zany Zone, Killing fields, Victorium, Dragkiller, Lake of Rebirth and Gamnad737. Mar 7, 1pm. Play Yard by Studio Bar, Lad Phrao Soi 8, 081-173-3616. B200. MRT Phahon Yothin.
The Windbreaks Party by Wanderlust Five local indie bands perform till late at the rooftop bar, including Hariguem Zaboy and Plot. Tickets available at the door. Mar 7, 7pm. Wanderlust, 5/F, Nakiya Japanese Restaurant Building, Thonglor Soi 13, 086655-5328. B150.
concerts Sadao Watanabe Group 2015 in Bangkok
The German-Korean violinist who's performed with the Hamburg Symphony Orchestra joins the Bangkok Symphony Orchestra for a program of Ravel, Saint-Saens and Dvorak. Feb 28, 8pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456. B400-2,000 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.
Symphonie Fantastique The Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra and pianist Eri Nakagawa play Beethoven and Berlioz. Conducted by Alfonso Scarano. Pre-concert talk 45 minutes before the show starts. B100 for students. Mar 6, 7pm; Mar 7, 4pm. Prince Mahidol Hall, Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd. B300-500 from Thaiticketmajor.
Mass for Love The program features the world premiere of the piece by the Korean composer Thomas Hyuk Cha, the Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra's 10th season composer in residence, along with Tchaikovsky, Dukas and Brouwer. Pre-concert talk 45 minutes before the show starts. B100 for students. Mar 13, 7pm; Mar 14, 4pm. Prince Mahidol Hall, Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd. B300-500.
An Afternoon of Concerti with Philip Fowke & Nat Yontararak (2 Pianos) The distinguished British pianist meets the Thai classical pianist and composer for an afternoon piano recital of Mozart and Addinsell. Reservations at 02-541-8662 or www.salasudasirisobha.com. Mar 15, 4pm. Sala Sudasiri Sobha, Lad Phrao Soi 41, 02-541-8662. B700.
music festivals Winter Jazz and Arts Festival
One of Japan's most successful jazz saxophonists brings over his crew for a night of charming jazz music as a part of his 2015 world tour. Doors open at 6pm. Mar 4, 7pm. Royal Paragon Hall, 5/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-8023. B500-3,500.
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.
Nathan East Live in Bangkok
Lalaland by Inhale Exhale
Bassist of jazz fusion band Fourplay, who's worked with Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson and Elton John, performs in Bangkok with special guest Myra Malloy, winner of Thailand's Got Talent 2011. Register and order your tickets at www.abcpoint.com/nathaneast. Mar 7, 8pm. Royal Paragon Hall, 5/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-8023. B2,000 (one free drink). BTS Siam.
The riverside bar is transformed into a festival-style daytime gypsy party, with an on-site market, fortune-tellers, a spiritual corner, art displays, sunset meditation, food, specialized cocktails and live performances curated by the Inhale Exhale crew. Feb 28, 2pm. Viva Aviv, B/F, River City Shopping Complex, 23 Yotha Rd., 02-639-6305. Free.
Mogwai Live in Bangkok 2015
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 plus a private lounge area, private restroom and fast-lane access. Mar 7, 4pm. 11th Infantry Regiment, King's Guard, Phahon Yothin Rd. B2,5004,000 from Thaiticketmajor.
After their last sold-out show in 2011, the veteran Scottish post-rock band returns to Bangkok with music from their latest album, Rave Tapes. Mar 13, 8pm. Moonstar Studio, 701 Lad Phrao Soi 80 (Lad Phrao), 02-539-3881. B1,500 from Thaiticketmajor.
Arch Enemy Live in Bangkok The Swedish death metal group goes on tour with its new guitarist Jeff Loomis and new lead singer Alissa White-Gluz from Canada. Doors open 30 minutes before the show. Mar 14, 6pm. Hollywood Hall Ratchada, Ratchadaphisek Soi 8 (Ratchadaphisek). B1,500 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.
One Direction On the Road Again Tour The British boy band that needs no introduction returns to Bangkok after two years for a mega-scale concert as part of their tour of Asia and Australia. Expect the stadium to be filled with screaming teenage Thai fangirls. Doors open at 5pm. Mar 14, 8pm. Rajamangala National Stadium, Sports Authority of Thailand, 286 Ramkhamhaeng Rd., 02-369-0999. B1,800-10,000.
Maya Music Festival
Duck & Noodle's Boat Party The party boat returns to the Chao Phraya River, with live music on the upper deck by Yellow Fang, Degaruda and Yena, and underground house and techno sounds on the lower deck by DJs David Chong, Benoit C. and Mandy Indigo. Food vendors like Mad Moa will also be present, with other fun activities onboard. B500 tickets at the door before 11pm. Mar 7, 8pm. Charoenkrung Soi 80. B600.
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now VENUE
Trunkated Tales
Ekamai Mall
The historic library's new exhibition features the work of Millie Young, who captures images of elephants, the national animal of Thailand, through various media. Opening wine reception on Mar 3 from 7-9:30pm, with Thailand National Elephant Day Fundraiser on Mar 13 featuring an auction of her paintings, and a children's event and artist's talk on Mar 14 and 28. Mar 3-29. Neilson Hays Library, 195 Surawong Rd., 02-233-1731.
For a mall like no other in Bangkok, head to Ekkamai Soi 10.
ongoing À Paris Photo Exhibition Cynical Bear in Bangkok
MUSIC/CONTINUED Castle Bar
Recent Openings PETITE CAFE X LIBERTY AREA ONE
Launched at the start of the year, this miniscule cafe in the multi-label boutique Liberty Area One serves coffee from Ceresia Roasters (try the Wild Honey roast espresso, B55) and baked goods from Conkey’s like almond chocolate croissants (B50). There’s also a few standard mixers (all B120) and Japanese craft beers (from B180). 089-55-1244. Open Tue-Sun 11am-10pm
CASTLE BAR
The rock-centric/retro Irish pub serves European and Thai fusion food like the Castle Bar Cheese Steak (B250) and Castle Ribs (B220), paired with on-tap beers Carlsberg, Paulaner Hefe-Weizen and Kilkenny. Expect live acoustic acts Wed-Fri and EPL matches on the weekend, with the guys from 1979 Vinyl and Unknown Pleasures spinning from time to time. 093-936-5659. Open Tue-Sun 11am-midnight
Festival of India in Thailand A two-month Indian art and music festival, with performances taking place throughout Bangkok. The opening night on Mar 6 at the Grand Millenium Hotel celebrates the culture of Assam through a fashion show, a dance performance and a violinist concert. Contemporary Indian artist Raghu Dixit performs at CentralWorld on Mar 10. Daksha Seth Dance Company's performance takes place on Mar 13 at Aksra Theatre and the Indian Fun Fair is at Thammasat University on Mar 22. An art exhibition at Chula runs from Apr 27-May 10 and the festival ends with literary talks on May 25 at Chula. Mar 6-May 25, 6:30pm.
STAGE
dance Toshiki Okada x Tomoko Soda x Pichet Klunchun
DARK BAR
For an alternative late-night hangout, check out this new project also run by the owner of Liberty Area One. The moodily-lit bar gives off the vibe of a decaying, time-capsule mansion, and serves cheap Jamesons (B150) plus standard beers like Beerlao (B150) and Leo (B100). It opens just three nights a week, attracting the same faces from Moose and Happy Monday. 02-381-9896. Open Wed, Fri, Sat 9pm-2am
Thai contempory dance master Pichet collaborates with two Japanese artists on a number originally performed at Kobe-Asia Contemporary Dance Festival #3 under the theme "My Home is Shivering and Changing (or is it Me and my Body Wriggling?)" This edition will be adapted for the Thai social context. Reserve your tickets at 080-924-0002. Feb 28-Mar 1, 7:30pm. Chang Theatre, 700 Pracha Uthit Soi 59, 080-924-0002. B600.
Butoh Decade: The 10th International Butoh Festival Thailand 2015
Burger Factory
Best of the Rest VINTAGE SHOPPING
For a shopping sesh that won’t break the bank, the mall has (Un)fashion (094-421-2411. Open daily noon-9pm), which specializes in rare leather shoes, bags and accessories for men and women. Check out its Facebook page for the latest collection updates. For shirts and old polos, head over to VTG (089121-0969. Open Tue-Sun 3pm-9pm), which belongs to the same guy as its neighbor, longstanding after-work hangout Happy Monday (02-714-3953. Open Mon-Sat 7am-midnight). They also do a hair-cutting service for around B400-500. SPA TIME
Right opposite the mall, Health Land (02-392-2233. Opens daily 9am-11pm) has exceptionally clean facilities, well-trained staff and wallet-friendly prices. Foot reflexology is B300 (one hour), while traditional Thai massage is B500 (two hours). They also offer more fancy spa packages.
In celebration of its 10-year anniversary, the special dance festival features workshops (B500-1,000) and a one-off live performance by international performers Yumiko Yoshioka, Miguel Camarero, Sainkho Namtchylak and special guests. Suggested donation for performances: B500 (B400 for students). Reservations at 089-167-4039 or email bkkbutoh@gmail.com. Mar 7, 14-15, 2pm; Mar 13, 6pm; Mar 15, 8pm. Pridi Banomyong Institute, B-Floor Room, Sukhumvit Soi 55, 02-3813860-1, 08-67877155. Free.
musicals The Magic of the Musicals The New Broadway Company returns to the stage for its monthly musical evenings. Tickets include tapas and unlimited white, red and sparkling wines plus selected cocktails. The shows this season include: Cabaret on Feb 27, Sound of Music on Mar 27, Les Miserables on Apr 24 and Phantom of the Opera on May 29. Make reservations at 02207-7777 or email fb.bangkok@stregis.com. Feb 27, 8pm; Mar 27, 8pm; Apr 24, 8pm; May 29, 8pm. The St. Regis Bangkok, 159 Ratchadamri Rd., 02-207-7777. B1,850. BTS Ratchadamri.
theater
FOOD STOPS
Gruesome Playground Injuries
Bangkok foodies can’t get enough of gourmet burgers, and Burger Factory (02-714-4249. Open Sun-Thu 11:30am-11pm; Fri-Sat 11:30am-midnight) was one of the first on the scene. Try the signature bacon and cheese Factory Burger (made with Australian beef, B300), or go healthy with the grilled salmon burger (B310). Looking for a lighter option? Head over to Ebisu Sushi (087-719-1888. Open daily 5pm-11pm; Sat-Sun noon-3pm), which serves fish from Tokyo’s Tsukiji Market and beef from Hokkaido and Kagoshima. It also launched a new menu earlier this month.
The play by 2010 Pulitzer finalist Rajiv Joseph tells a story of love and destruction spanning 30 years. Starring Siree Riewpaiboon and Jaime Zuniga. Directed by Peter O'Neill. Play in English with Thai subtitles. Reserve your tickets at www.peelthelimelight.com. B500 for students. Through Mar 1, 7:30pm. Jasmine City Building, 2 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-204-5888. B550.
Crossing Nirvana Veteran actor Sornchai Chatwiriyachai presents his first original play with an experienced cast, 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 089554-9865 and 089-690-0442. Feb 27-Mar 2, 8pm; Mar 6-9, 8pm. Democrazy Theatre Studio, 1034/29-30 Soi Saphankhu, Rama 4 Rd., 089-126-7112, 081-441-5718. B500. MRT Lumphini.
Disney's Beauty and the Beast The Original Broadway Musical The award-winning production returns to Bangkok after 13 years of successful performances. Shows run Tue-Sun. 2pm performances every weekend. Through 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.
ART
opening 7 Samurai Artist by Groundstar+ The grand opening of a three-part art series. The first one, titled "Showcase," features the works of seven Japanese artists, with the opening party on Feb 27 at 7pm. DJs itch1 and To-ru will also be spinning tracks. One free welcome sake drink. Feb 27-May 3. GOJA Gallery Café, 5/2 Pridi Soi 3, 085848-7576. BTS Phra Khanong.
The cute cafe known for its imported coffee beans hosts a new art exhibition by Add Peerapat, who captured the beauty of the French capital through his favorite Rolleiflex. Through Mar 17. Ink & Lion Cafe, 1/7 Ekkamai Soi 2, 091-559-0994. BTS Ekkamai.
The Aesthetic of Colours in Siam Wattana Poolcharoen's impressionist painting exhibition depicts natural landscapes and the beauty of Thai culture. Through Mar 15. Pikture Gallery, 47/1 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-662-8359.
Amour: The Art Exhibition The art studio/cafe hosts a group exhibtiion by 10 Thai artists. Through Apr 14. Kalwit Studio & Gallery, Wireless Soi 2 (Ruam Rudi).
Anxiety of Corvus Young artist Rook Floro expresses his emotional anxieties through symbolic drawings and art installations. Through Mar 7. Numthong Gallery, 72/3 Phahon Yothin 7 Soi 5 (Ari), 02-617-2794. BTS Ari.
Barry x Ball: Portraits and Photos The Californian sculptor who's shown his dramatic marble busts at the MOMA (NY, USA) and the Venice Biennale exhibits images of his past installations. Through Mar 29. 100 Tonson Gallery, 100 Soi Tonson, Ploenchit Rd., 02-684-1527. BTS Phloen Chit.
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., 02214-6630-8. BTS National Stadium.
Crossover: The Unveiled Collection
The Korean performance artist who's taken residency at the art space performs three shows: Feel the Paper, Table Domino and Memory Loading. There will also be an artist's talk from 8pm onwards. Reserve your seats at 02-178-0095. Snacks and soft drinks provided. Feb 27. Hof Art Space, W District, Sukhumvit Soi 69-71. BTS Phra Khanong.
The gallery's main exhibition for the first half of 2015 explores how Thai art has been collected throughout history. Exhibits range from well-known pieces to the work of previously underrated artists, amassed from the collections of both private individuals and organizations. Through Jun 14. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-6630-8. BTS National Stadium.
Maitrii Art Exhibition
Cynical Bear in Bangkok
A group art exhibition by Thai artists and the gallery's resident Indian artists, featuring sculptures, paintings and drawings that represent the history of the two cultures. Opens on Mar 5 at 6:30pm. Mar 5-31. The Seven Art Gallery, 1/F, Tara Sathorn Building, 119 Sathorn Soi 5, 02-639-2315.
Korean artist Koo Yeon Mo documents changes in society from the 70s onwards through a series of cynical bear illustrations. Through Mar 19. Artery Post-Modern Gallery, Room B09, B1/F, Silom Galleria Building, 919/1 Silom Soi 19 (Silom).
Disquiet
Seen: Unseen - Exhibition
Chiang Mai-based British artist Will Klose presents a series of realistic paintings based on his suburban London memories. Through Mar 31. G1 Contemporary, G/F Gaysorn Plaza, 085-021-5508. BTS Chit Lom.
My Memory is Full
The abstract street art exhibition features the work of Jeff Ross, Toska Vosd, RG. 86 and Druide. Opening party on Feb 28, with music by Remy Gold & Pulse, and an open bar from 7-9pm. Feb 28-Mar 15. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833. BTS Surasak.
Surrounded by Details - The Art of Design German-Swedish photographer Stev Bonhage, who created a new clothing label, Ichigo Ichie Clothing, turns his art into wearable designs for this new exhibition. Opening party at the bar on Feb 27 at 8pm. Feb 27-Mar 29. Chomp, Samsen Soi 1, 084-098-8633.
Writing Piece Performance by Shelbatra Jashari The conceptual multimedia artist sits in the middle of the art space for three hours without moving, inviting the audience to take part by drawing, writing, or repositioning her limbs. Feb 27, 5pm. Speedy Grandma, 672/50-52 Charoenkrung Soi 28, 089-508-3859.
Encounters German-Thai photographer Benya Hegenbarth's new fashion and portrait photography documents moments with people who've made an immediate emotional impact on him. Through Mar 6. Soy Sauce Factory, 11/1 Charoenkrung Soi 24, 092-115-8696.
Exhibition of Paintings by Michaël Deloffre The French artist, whose previous works have been shown across 40 countries, presents 20 abstract paintings. Through Mar 8. Golden Tortoise Gallery, 100 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02662-5600.
Ekamai Mall, 3 Ekkamai Soi 10. BTS Ekkamai
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TAKE NOTE
TGIF Market (Thank God It’s Flea Market) 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. Free.
The 16th Thai International Travel Fair 2015 Siam: Through the lens of John Thomson 1865-66
MEGA-MARKET
For a traditional shopping and eating experience, you no longer need to head to Damnoensaduak or Amphawa. From now through Mar 1, Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem Floating Market (aka Withi Thai Floating Market) brings together vendors from five land markets, including the Old Town’s Talad Nang Lerng, famous for traditional Thai dishes, and six floating markets like foodie heaven Taling Chan Floating Market, in Thonburi. The land market side of things opens from 11am-8pm, and the floating market from 3-8pm. You can expect over 90 boats and three piers for those who would like to take a tour of Thewet-Hua Lamphong. There are two boat rides per day, at 4pm and 5pm, with 40 seats. In addition to all the Thai food, drinks, snacks and desserts, there are also cultural performances, Thai music instrumental shows, a kite-making workshop and various boat races. Through Mar 1, opposite Wat Somanas, Krung Kasem Rd.
ART/CONTINUED Hope in the Darkness Bangkok artists Preecha Noulnim and Aphiphol Techamangkhalanon present a joint exhibition depicting urban life in Thai society using various media. Through Mar 29. Whitespace Gallery, 4/F, 1 Sala Daeng Soi 1/7-9. 02-235-2500, 081-699-5298. MRT Lumphini.
Imply Reply: Huang Yong Ping and Sakarin Krue-on The avant-garde Chinese/French artist presents sculptures, installations and drawings from his previous collections together with the multimedia work of contemporary Bangkok artist Sakarin Krue-on. Through Apr 26. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-6630-8. BTS National Stadium.
Intermezzo Three internationally recognized artists—GiOk Jeon, Pattree Chimnok and Melanie Gritzka del Villar—hold a multimedia group exhibition on the subject of "intimate space." Through Apr 9. Korean Cultural Center, 219/2 Sukhumvit Rd.
Joyful Khaen, Joyful Dance
NEW GENERATION
Charoenkrung’s hip art space Speedy Grandma recently launched a new project on its second floor, Speedy Grandchild, which aims to provide a platform for young art students and recent graduates to exhibit their work to the public. All aspiring artists and curators, plus anyone with a creative idea, can submit their proposals at info@speedygrandma.com. Selected artwork will be announced online every month. Its first exhibition opens this Mar 7 and features the work of Kunlapak Chintanakorn in an exhibition titled Toy Story. 672/50-52 Charoenkrung Soi 28, 089-508-3859. MRT Hua Lamphong
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. BTS National Stadium.
Luong Trung/Street Feelings A solo exhibition by the young Vietnamese contemporary artist, showing the changes to Hanoi, Vietnam, and its art scene over the years. Through Apr 20. Artha Gallery, 5-7 Charoenkrung Soi 36, 02-630-9489.
Mar 8, 2pm. Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd. 02-2146630-8. BTS National Stadium
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Over 20 local and international artists take part in this multimedia exhibition. Each week sees nine new artists present their work, from theater to graffiti and installation art, in any given space throughout the five floors of the venue. B350 single entry and B650 multiple entries on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Through Mar 8. Thong Lor Art Space, 58/14-15 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). Free.
State of the Ridiculous Tuksina Pipitkul and Wantanee Siripattananuntakul's new installation takes over the gallery's main space, as well as H Project Space, as this playful exhibition questions how we relate to circumstances in the contemporary world. Through Apr 26. H Gallery, 201 Sathorn Soi 12, 085-021-5508.
Thai Neotraditional Art This exhibition brings together 50 pieces by six Thai artists who painted the walls of Buddhapadipa Temple, the first Buddhist temple in the UK, in 1987, including Professor Panya Vijinthanasarn, last year's National Artist in Visual Arts. Through Apr 26. Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), Room 499, Bejajinda Building, Wiphawadi-Rangsit Rd., 02-953-1111.
Untie Group Exhibition Local artists Kittaya Poolsawatdi, Prang Jorakhet and Songwoot Kaewwisit show off their different experiences through various artistic styles free from creative restrictions. Through Apr 5. The Adler Subhashok Gallery, 160/3 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-662-0299.
Urban Corner Saitle Ngaorsai moodily paints the reality of urban city-living, through the eyes of someone who's migrated to Bangkok. Through Mar 15. DOB Hualamphong Gallery, 4/F, DOB Building, 318 Rama 4 Rd., 02-2375592/4.
Paintbox 3 - 2xx1 Parallel Future
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.
Ready, Set, Go! GIRL POWER
Space Oh these [cra]zy: The Site-specific Arts and Performances
Myanmar: Recent Portraits by Hamid Sardar-Afkhami A preview of the filmmaker/photographer's ethno-religious portraits shot in the northwest region of Myanmar. Through Mar 22. Serindia Gallery, Room 3101, 3201, OP Garden, 4-6 Charoen Krung Soi 36, 02-238-6410. The Phra Khanong art space/cafe's one-year anniversary coincides with a new group exhibition, featuring the work of Koutaro Ooyama (Doppel), Hideyuki Katsumata and Rukkit. Through Mar 8. GOJA Gallery Café, 5/2 Pridi Soi 3, 085-848-7576. BTS Phra Khanong.
In celebration of International Women’s Day this Mar 8, Bangkok-based women’s leadership development organization Wedu hosts a mentorship event, where participants will be paired up with a professional mentor to discuss various challenges facing women. Wedu International Women’s Day Mentoring Walk’s theme this year is “A New Lens: the importance of co-reflection and self-awareness in leadership development and goal-setting.” Previous keynote speakers include the Asia Pacific Director of UN Women, the President of Standard Chartered Thailand and Director of Ashoka. Women enrolled in university can apply as mentees and working professionals as mentors now at www.weduglobal.org/mentorwalk. Further enquiries at community@wedufund.org.
rapher John Thomson, who captured portraits, events and landscapes, developed at Wellcome Institute, London. Through Feb 28. National Gallery, 4 Chao Fa Rd., 02282-2639-40.
An exhibition of ready-made art objects, taken from different cultures in Southeast Asia. Curated by Kritsada Duchsadeevanich. Through Mar 27. The Art Center, 7/F, Center of Academic Resources, Chulalongkorn University, Phaya Thai Rd., 02-2182-965.
Representing Localities: Memory and Experience Painter Therdkiat Wangwatchakul joins upand-coming sculptor Rattana Salee in this exhibition curated by Rathsaran Sireekan. Through Mar 21. Thavibu Gallery, Room 433, 4/F, JTC Jewelry Trade Center, 919/1 Silom Rd., 02-266-5454.
Siam: Through the Lens of John Thomson 1865-66 A photography exhibition of Thailand during the era of King Rama V by Scottish photog-
What are we Drinking?
What Where When Why A black and white photography exhibition by Tul Hirunyalawan depicting the artist's thoughts and emotional journey. Through Mar 8. The Jam Factor y, 41/1-41/2 Charoen Nakorn Rd., 02-861-0950.
HAPPENINGS
design exhibitions Design Object Movement: Indonesia - the Philippines The mini exhibition selects local, creative design products from Indonesia and the Philippines that have been adapted to meet global trends, as well as global products that have been adapted to meet local tastes. Through Mar 31, 10:30am. Thailand Creative and Design Center (TCDC), 6/F, The Emporium, 662 Sukhumvit Soi 24, 02-6648448. Free. BTS Phrom Phong.
Plan ahead for the summer holiday season at this Thai travel fair, with booths by travel agencies, airlines, hotels, cruises and attractions. Prizes are also up for grabs. Feb 25-Mar 1, 10am. Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, 60 New Ratchadapisek Rd., 02-229- 3000. Free. MRT Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre.
Thailand Classic & Super Car 2015 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. Free. BTS Saphan Taksin (free ferry from Sathorn Pier).
34th Thai Teaw Thai The mega-popular Thai tourism fair returns with local and international travel services and up to 70-percent discounts on accommodation, travel, car rental, cruises, spas and hotel meals. Mar 5-8, 10am. Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, 60 New Ratchadapisek Rd., 02-229- 3000. Free. MRT Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre.
Sweet Escape at 953 Art Mall A two-day market at the new Thonglor mall, with art and design shops, fashion and handmade crafts. There will also be a canvas painting booth by Paintbar Bangkok, as well a mini concert by indie acts Gardener Twins, Fwends, Aire and Yellow Fang, plus an after party from 10pm onwards. Mar 7-8, 11am. 953 Art Mall, 124 Sukhumvit 53. Free.
The Great Outdoor Market Back by popular demand, after its Bangkok Docklands debut late last year, this niche outdoor market serves up a garden deck full of eateries, mini cafes, designer pop-up stalls and a floating bar. Mar 13-15, 4pm. Canapaya Riverfront, 888 Rama 3 Rd., 02-291-9499.
sports Run Against UV A charity run, with proceeds going to the Dermatological Society of Thailand. Two distance options: 3km and 10km. All participants receive a T-shirt, La Roche-Posay tester-sized products and a B500 La Roche-Posay voucher. All runners receive a medal. Tickets available at Boots, HealthChoice, Lab Pharmacy and Sports Vision. Mar 12, 6am. Suan Benjakitti, Ratchadaphisek Rd. B500.
talks BACC Special Lecture 2015 Stephen Sarrazin, a film professor, critic and curator working between Tokyo and Paris, gives a talk on the history of video art. Mar 7's subject is The Origins: From Signal to Performance and The Recognition of Video by Museums through the Installation. Mar 8 is on The Move from Video to Media and Film Installation. Lectures in Engilsh with Thai translation. Mar 7-8, 2pm; Mar 7, 5pm. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-6630-8. Free. BTS National Stadium.
Naoto Space Talk by Naoto Fukasawa The award-winning Japanese designer gives a talk on a new design philosophy that integrates “instincts” with “daily routines,” which results in a valuable space. Reserve your seat at http://ow.ly/Jastg. Mar 12, 6pm. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-6630-8. Free. BTS National Stadium.
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now The Theory of Everything (UK)
SPECIAL SCREENINGS
HHHHH 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.
Comet (US) HHHHH Drama. Dell (Justin Long) and Kimberly (Emmy Rossum) forge a six-year long-distance relationship after a chance encounter under a meteor shower.
The Imitation Game (US/UK) No Impact Man
The Riot Club
FILM
opening Focus (US) HHHHH Drama/Comedy. Veteran con-artist Nicky (Will Smith) takes the seductive Jess (Margot Robbie) under his wing, teaching her the tricks of the trade.
Just Eat it
The Lazarus Effect (US) (Not yet rated) Horror. Medical researchers Frank (Mark Duplass) and Zoe (Olivia Wilde) successfully develop a way to revive the dead. But when Zoe is killed in an accident, Frank is forced to use the method on her. Predestination (Australia) HHHHH Action/Drama. Ethan Hawke stars as The Barkeep, an agent of the Temporal Bureau, a peace-keeping organization that sends agents back through time to stop major crimes.
The Riot Club (UK) HHHHH 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. Urbanized
SOCIAL CHANGE FILM FESTIVAL On Mar 7-8, the Thai Social Enterprise Office hosts the Social Change Film Festival at Terminal 21, as part of their Social Enterprise Week event. The five films have been selected to raise awareness of various global issues facing the modern world.
The Last: Naruto the Movie (Japan) HHHHH Animation. This closing chapter in the decade-spanning ninja epic sees the titular character, two years after the events of the manga, fighting a new foe bent on bringing the moon crashing down on Earth.
Rise of the Legend (Hong Kong)
No Impact Man (directed by Laura Gabbert, Justin Schein) This documentary follows the life of author Colin Beavan, whose decision to limit his impact on the environment by giving up all the conveniences of modern life, electricity, gas-fueled transportation, shipped food and automated waste disposal—has a knock-on effect on his family.
(Limited to SF Cinemas only) HHHHH Action. A boy orphaned by the forces of evil must rise up and bring justice back to his hometown.
Just Eat It (directed by Grant Baldwin) Two filmmakers look into the problem of wasted food, which causes billions of dollars’ worth of problems for the US. Rejecting store-bought food, the two rely entirely on food items that are about to go bad.
Wild Card (US) HHHHH
Urbanized (directed by Gary Hustwit) The documentary looks at cities which have made radical steps to improve their quality of life, from the extensive network of bicycle lanes in Bogota, Colombia, to New York’s famous elevated park, the High Line. Time as Money (directed by Lenore Eklund) Civil rights lawyer and speech writer Edgar Cahn came up with the idea of Time Banking, where people in a community help each other out for “Time Dollars,” which can be redeemed for another community member’s help on anything. The concept became widely popular, with new time banks created every day. The Missing Piece (directed by Patana Chirawong) This documentary within a documentary chronicles the efforts of a group of disabled Thai citizens who came together to produce a short film of their own in the hope of making other people view them in a different light. Entry is free. Films are screened in their native languages, with English and/or Thai subtitles. Reserve seats online at goo.gl/forms/Zt1FkGDtmx. For more information, visit www.fb.com/SocialChangeFF
now showing Thriller/Action. Jason Statham stars as Nick Wild, a gambling addict who takes on jobs as a bodyguard to fuel his addiction.
Song One (US) HHHHH Drama. Franny (Anne Hathaway) travels to New York to visit her brother who’s in a coma. There, she becomes involved with James Forester (Johnny Flynn), a musician idolized by her brother.
Penguins of Madagascar (US) HHHHH Animation. Madagascar’s penguin spies must work with Agent Classified (Benedict Cumberbatch) to stop the evil schemes of Dr. Octavius Brine (John Malkovich).
Dragon Blade (China/Hong Kong) (Not yet rated) Historical/Action . A Han dynasty squad commander (Jackie Chan) and a Roman general (John Cusack) try to escape China after successfully rescuing a hostage. Ananta: The Light of Hope (Thai) (Not yet rated) Animation. A young prince must step up to protect his kingdom from the invading forces of evil.
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Birdman (US) HHHHH Drama/Comedy. Washed-up superhero Riggan Thomson (Michael Keaton) organizes an ambitious Broadway production in the hopes of jump-starting his stagnant career and proving that he’s a real artist.
Bong Srolanh Oun (Thai/Cambodia) (Not yet rated) Horror. Following a string of unexplained accidents, Dol (Ray McDonald) becomes curious about his apartment’s former residents and travels to Cambodia to seek them out.
HHHHH 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) HHHHH 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.
upcoming Cat a Wabb! (Thai)
Drama. Olympic runner Louis “Louie” Zamperini (Jack O’Connell) fights for survival in a WWII Japanese POW camp in this perilous tale of endurance.
Romcom. Meyo (Pimchanok Luewisetpaiboon), an intern at an ad agency, develops a crush on her trainer, More (Arrak Amornsupsiri). Her hopes are quickly dashed, however, when she loses Johnny, the cat used in a big commercial. Feb 4
Love Confession (Thai) HHHHH
Mor 6/5 Pak Mha Taa Kod Phee
Drama. After a devastating break-up, Guy (Jirawat Manassanit) falls back on his best friend and first love Blue (Pornpimol Siyatong) for support, only to fall in love with her again.
(Thai) Horror/Comedy. The third film in the teenage horror-comedy series sees the previous films’ characters finally graduate from high school and head on a trip to Phuket together before leaving for college. Feb 4
Unbroken (US) HHHHH
Kingsman: The Secret Service (UK/US) HHHHH Action/Comedy. Secret service agent Harry Hart (Colin Firth) recruits Gary “Eggsy” Unwin (Taron Egerton), the talented-yet-delinquent son of a late spy, to the secret service, in order to thwart the villainous plans of Richmond Valentine (Samuel L. Jackson).
Ode to My Father (Korea) HHHHH Drama. Amid the devastation of the Korean War, a young boy devotes his life to a promise he gave his father to protect his family.
Fifty Shades of Grey (US) HHHHH Erotic drama. Anastasia Steele (Dakota Johnson) grudgingly agrees to interview secretive millionaire Christian Grey (Jamie Dornan) for her sick friend, only to realize that she is powerfully attracted to him, and him to her.
Playing It Cool (US) HHHHH Romcom. An aspiring action-writer (Chris Evans) is tasked by his editor to write a romance novel. Though at first daunted, he soon finds inspiration in Her (Michelle Monaghan), who’s already engaged.
Single Lady (Thai) HHHHH Romcom. Unfortunate circumstances compel independent working-woman Bright (Patcharapa Chaichue) to seek out her old lovers and perhaps find true love in the process.
Jupiter Ascending (US) HHHHH Sci-fi/Adventure. Jupiter Jones’ (Mila Kunis) life is in danger when she learns that she is 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.
The Rewrite (US) HHHHH Drama. Has-been Academy Award-winning screenwriter Keith Michaels (Hugh Grant) takes on a university teaching job only to fall in love with Holly (Marisa Tomei), a single mother.
Chappie (US) Sci-Fi/Drama. The third feature film from the director of District 9 and Elysium tells the story of a police robot in a futuristic post-apocalyptic Earth that develops human feelings and thoughts. Feb 4
Superfast (US) Comedy. Undercover cop Lucas White (Alex Ashbaugh) joins a group of illegal street-racers who plan to rob the local kingpin of all his cash, which he keeps in a downtown Taco Bell. Feb 4
Parasyte: Part 1 (Japan) Horror/Action. This live-action adaptation of the phenomenally popular Japanese manga follows teenager Shinichi Izumi (Shota Sometani), who wakes up one day to find that his right hand has been replaced by a man-eating alien parasite. Feb 4
free screenings Jam Every Wednesday night is Cult Movie Night. Theme for March is Filmned in Thailand. 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.
Goethe Institut Movies are in German and subtitled in English. Mar 8. Jacob the Liar (1974): Having overheard details of the Russians making an offensive on the Nazis, Jewish jeweler Jacob Heym lies to the people of his community to give them hope for liberation. For more information, visit http:// www.goethe.de/ins/th/en/ban/ver.cfm, or contact 02-108-8200, info@bangkok. goethe.org
BK Magazine Friday, February 27, 2015
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FREEWILL ASTROLOGY PISCES (Feb 19-Mar 20): The British rock band the Animals released their gritty, growly song “The House of the Rising Sun” in 1964. It reached the top of the pop music charts in the U.S., Canada, U.K., and Australia, and was a hit with critics. Rolling Stone magazine ultimately ranked it as the 122nd greatest song of all time. And yet it took the Animals just 15 minutes to record. They did it in one take. That’s the kind of beginner’s luck and spontaneous flow I foresee you having in the coming weeks, Pisces. What’s the best way for you to channel all that soulful mojo? ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 19): Lately your life reminds me of the action film Speed, starring Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves. In that story, a criminal has rigged a passenger bus to explode if its speed drops below 50 miles per hour. In your story, you seem to be acting as if you, too, will self-destruct if you stop moving at a frantic pace. I’m here to tell you that nothing bad will happen if you slow down. Just the opposite, in fact. As you clear your schedule of its excessive things-to-do, as you leisurely explore the wonders of doing nothing in particular, I bet you will experience a soothing flood of healing pleasure. TAURUS (Apr 20-May 20): One of the most dazzling moves a ballet dancer can do is the fouetté en tournant. The term is French for “whipped turning.” As she executes a 360-degree turn, the dancer spins around on the tip of one foot. Meanwhile, her other foot thrusts outward and then bends in, bringing her toes to touch the knee of her supporting leg. Can you imagine a dancer doing this 32 consecutive times? That’s what the best do. It takes extensive practice and requires a high degree of concentration and discipline. Paradoxically, it expresses breathtaking freedom and exuberance. You may not be a prima ballerina, Taurus, but in your own field there must be an equivalent to the fouetté en tournant. Now is an excellent time for you to take a vow and
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make plans to master that skill. What will you need to do? GEMINI (May 21-Jun 20): If you’re a martial artist and you want to inject extra energy into an aggressive move, you might utter a percussive shout that sounds like “eee-yah!” or “hyaah!” or “aiyah!” The Japanese term for this sound is kiai. The sonic boost is most effective if it originates deep in your diaphragm rather than from your throat. Even if you’re not a martial artist, Gemini, I suggest that in the coming weeks you have fun trying out this boisterous style of yelling. It may help you summon the extra power and confidence you’ll need to successfully wrestle with all the interesting challenges ahead of you. CANCER (Jun 21-Jul 22): The prolific and popular French novelist Aurore Dupin was better known by her pseudonym George Sand. Few 19th-century women matched her rowdy behavior. She wore men’s clothes, smoked cigars, was a staunch feminist, and frequented social venues where only men were normally allowed. Yet she was also a doting mother to her two children, and loved to garden, make jam, and do needlework. Among her numerous lovers were the writers Alfred de Musset, Jules Sandeau, and Prosper Mérimée, as well as composer Frederic Chopin and actress Marie Dorval. Her preferred work schedule was midnight
to 6am, and she often slept until 3pm “What a brave man she was,” said Russian author Ivan Turgenev, “and what a good woman.” Her astrological sign? The same as you and me. She’s feisty proof that not all of us Crabs are conventional fuddy-duddies. In the coming weeks, she’s our inspirational role model. LEO (Jul 23-Aug 22): It seems you’ve slipped into a time warp. Is that bad? I don’t think so. Your adventures there may twist and tweak a warped part of your psyche in such a way that it gets healed. At the very least, I bet your visit to the time warp will reverse the effects of an old folly and correct a problem caused by your past sins. (By the way, when I use the word “sin,” I mean “being lax about following your dreams.”) There’s only one potential problem that could come out of all this: Some people in your life could misinterpret what’s happening. To prevent that, communicate crisply every step of the way. VIRGO (Aug 23-Sep 22): In English and French versions of the word game Scrabble, the letter z is worth ten points. In Italian, it’s eight points. But in the Polish variant of Scrabble, you score just one point by using z. That letter is rarely used in the other three languages, but is common in Polish. Keep this general principle in mind as you assess the value of the things you have to offer. You will be able to make more headway and
have greater impact in situations where your particular beauty and power and skills are in short supply. LIBRA (Sep 23-Oct 22): “Learn all you can from the mistakes of others. You won’t have to make them all your yourself.” So said Alfred Sheinwold in his book about the card game known as bridge. I think this is excellent advice for the game of life, as well. And it should be extra pertinent for you in the coming weeks, because people in your vicinity will be making gaffes and wrong turns that are useful for you to study. In the future, you’ll be wise to avoid perpetrating similar messes yourself. SCORPIO (Oct 23-Nov 21): “Love her but leave her wild,” advised a graffiti artist who published his thoughts on a wall next to the mirror in a public restroom I visited. Another guerrilla philosopher had added a comment below: “That’s a nice sentiment, but how can anyone retain wildness in a society that puts so many demands on us in exchange for money to live?” Since I happened to have a felt-tip pen with me, I scrawled a response to the question posed in the second comment: “Be in nature every day. Move your body a lot. Remember and work with your dreams. Be playful. Have good sex. Infuse any little thing you do with a creative twist. Hang out with animals. Eat with your fingers. Sing regularly.” And that’s also my message for you, Scorpio, during this phase when it’s so crucial for you to nurture your wildness. SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22-Dec 21): “Don’t worry, even if things get heavy, we’ll all float on.” So sings Modest Mouse’s vocalist Isaac Brock
on the band’s song “Float On.” I recommend you try that approach yourself, Sagittarius. Things will no doubt get heavy in the coming days. But if you float on, the heaviness will be a good, rich, soulful heaviness. It’ll be a purifying heaviness that purges any glib or shallow influences that are in your vicinity. It’ll be a healing heaviness that gives you just the kind of graceful gravitas you will need. CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 19): “What I look for in a friend is someone who’s different from me,” says science fiction novelist Samuel Delany. “The more different the person is, the more I’ll learn from him. The more he’ll come up with surprising takes on ideas and things and situations.” What about you, Capricorn? What are the qualities in a friend that help you thrive? Now is a perfect time to take an inventory. I sense that although there are potential new allies wandering in your vicinity, they will actually become part of your life only if you adjust and update your attitudes about the influences you value most. AQUARIUS (Jan 20 -Feb 18): At the turn of the 19th century, Russian laborers constructed thousands of miles of railroad tracks from the western part of the country eastward to Siberia. The hardest part of the job was blasting tunnels through the mountains that were in the way. I reckon you’re at a comparable point in your work, Aquarius. It’s time to smash gaping holes through obstacles. Don’t scrimp or apologize. Clear the way for the future.
BK Magazine Friday, February 27, 2015
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last word
Pairod Roikaew From his humble beginnings as a street-peddler of antiques, Pairod “Rod” Roikaew, 41, is now the millionaire-owner of the Rod Fai Market, one of Thailand’s most popular night markets. Having just opened a new branch of the market at Ratchada (see page 6), BK visits him at the Srinakarin location, where he shares with us his success story, as well as his perspectives on business and life.
I was an engineering major in college, though I never actually liked it. I was pretty bright, always getting good grades, but I didn’t feel like seeing it through. In junior year I switched to management. One semester later I decided I didn’t want to be a student; I’d rather be a merchant. I was confident that by the time my friends graduated, I’d already be rich. I visited a friend in Hat Yai during summer vacation. There, they had this huge market that sold old goods donated from America. Having bought the return ticket beforehand, I spent all my money to buy as much secondhand clothes as I could, to sell them in my home town of Ayutthaya. They sold like hotcakes. I started looking for places where I could stock up on cheap clothes to sell during school breaks. Soon, I became known in my community as the secondhand clothes guy, as I was the only person selling them. Manoch Puttal has always been a huge inspiration for me. Looking back, his 80s TV show Bunterng Kadee [entertainment documentary]
is the reason I am who I am today. The show focused a lot on Western culture and music, which was a relatively new thing in Thailand at the time. With it came the trend of wearing tattered, secondhand clothes, which inspired me to start selling them. Even today I rarely buy new clothes. I bought my first car with my own money when I was 18 years old. It was an old Volkswagen Beetle that set me back about B40,000. It was pretty beat-up, though. It broke down often enough for me to learn how to fix it myself. My transition to antique dealer began 20 years ago when I was working as a props-man for production sets. Walking around Klong Thom market, I discovered that there was a demand for the kind of antiques I already had a large collection of. My career had hit a dead-end, so I decided I’d rather be selling things again. I later became a dealer of vintage cars. I was good at hunting and locking down deals. Once, I found a 1966 Impala Convertible in Udon Thani. I tracked down the owner and bought
the car within one day. I’d hunt these cars and sell them for huge profits. Whenever I was about to run out of money, I’d find another car to sell. I set up an antiques store back in Bangkok with the help of my sister and her husband, who gave me the start-up cash. It was a major turning point in my life. I sold my beloved Volkswagen for a Hilux Vigo truck to carry my wares. I would open my shop ahead of the others, and I’d stay long after they all closed. I decorated my shop differently, too, and as a result, I had a lot of returning customers.
Very, very old items also tend to have a certain texture, which adds a sense of history to them. When I write my own biography I plan to call it Textures of my Life. I prefer to have a bit of roughness and texture to my life. Anything too neat and ordered is just boring.
Honesty can’t be bought
My favorite antiques are generally over a hundred years old. People tend to confuse antiques with retro items, even though they are two very different things. I like antiques from the Victorian era and the Baltic region.
wouldn’t be who I am today. I want to give others this opportunity. I identify as a merchant as opposed to a businessman. Businessmen are mostly concerned with milking every last drop of profit from their products. There’s no room for compromise or charity. Merchants tend to be more flexible. They can be haggled with, or they can even be charitable and sell things at a loss, as long as it makes them happy.
The most stressful moment in my life was when the original Rod Fai Market at Chatuchak was suddenly forced to relocate. I thought about all the merchants at my market, some of whom had just put down payments on cars and houses. I couldn’t abandon them. Personally, I’d put enough money away to retire, but I decided it wasn’t time.
Business owners need to find a balance between profits and goodwill. It’s better for your business if the people paying you are happy to do so. While other markets tend to charge B400-B500 for a single night’s stall rental, I only charge B200. I still get my profits, and the merchants get an affordable location to peddle their wares. It’s win-win.
Opportunity is the most valuable thing you can give to someone. If my sister and brother-in-law had never helped me start my business, I
Interview by Monruedee Jansuttipan, Kanin Srimaneekulroj
Honesty can’t be bought. Words can make or break you. Keep your word and you’ll be rewarded.
BK Magazine Friday, February 27, 2015
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