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it's free! Rain it in
BK MAGAZINE NO. 591 FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com
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ADVERTORIAL
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Hot Cups
Stalls to Malls
12 avenue
14 shopping
Bike Park
Sip & Shop
20 bites
22 bites
Dessert Arrivals
Classy Kaiseki
It’s nice to see the BMA is tackling the issue of disappearing street food by making it disappear even faster. No one wants a long drawn out death for these stall owners. Jun 21 is as good a date as any to finally make that inevitable switch from stalls to malls. And why limit ourselves to Soi 38? Let’s make Jun 21 “End Street Food Day.”
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La Fête
Run this City
Who's in charge? General Manager Andrew Hiransomboon 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, Lily Kittisrikangwan Junior Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Junior Writers Natcha Sanguankiattichai, Sam Nathapong 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
Advertising Director Wanida Akeapichai Sales Manager Tipkritta Chiraporncharas Senior Sales Associates Tassanee Mahamad, Orajira Sukkasem, Onwara Sittirug, Waranuch Thaneerat, Nattaya Bovornsettanon, Orakarn Laohakanjanasiri, Amarit Jinaya Regional Marketing Manager Pavida Chitprasertsuk Marketing Executive, Creative Services Puttipat Teerakawongsakul
Administrator Yaovaluck Srisermsri Accountant Manita Bangmoung Contributors Rob Brezsny, Kathy MacLeod Interns Kwanwalai Rodsaward, Dharath Hoonchamlong, Arisa Wiwatsomwong, Natchaya Angsatitanan Cover by Dechart Sangsawang
IT Manager Takrit Jitjaroen Distribution Executive Suda Angsuputiphant Finance Manager Supaporn Bangmoung Assistant Finance Manager Anchalee Limkhamduang Senior Accountant Maneeya Kanthongdang
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
Singapore Asia City Publishing Pte. Ltd. Block 211 Henderson Rd. #07-02 Henderson Industrial Park Singapore 159552 Tel: 65-6323-2512 Fax: 65-6323-2779 Email: contact@asia-city.com.sg
The street food vendors on Soi 38 will get kicked out to make way for a condominium. The owners of the land plot on which they are staying have given them until February to leave the premises. Concerned that might not completely rid the street of smoking pans and folding tables, BMA officials, accompanied by the army, told Soi 38’s vendors they should get off the sidewalks by Jun 21.
Kuala Lumpur Pacific Tourism Communications Sdn Bhd Lot 2.44-2.45, 2nd Floor, Wisma Cosway, Jalan Raja Chulan, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Tel: 60-3-2144-4886 Fax: 60-3-2141-1911
Street food is full of diseases and attracts the kind of tourists we don’t want. Good tourists drink Starbucks and eat local food by going to Nahm (or Soul Food if they’re feeling really wild). Bad tourists drink Leo and munch on pad Thai sitting on plastic stools. Speaking of pad Thai, we owe that dish to the Field Marshal Phibunsongkhram, a great leader who had many other genius ideas to help the country transition into a modern dictatorial regime. He also introduced the fork and spoon to replace eating with our hands. Sadly, he didn’t have time to overhaul Thai street food as a whole. Now is that time. Already, there have been encouraging signs that Thai food will effectively make the leap into the 21st century. All our protein, from shrimp to chicken and pork, is now grown in factories, so that we may even dispense with slave labor in the near future, as we further mechanize the processes. And it’s all being made by CP, which helps maintain nationwide standards. There’s also that robot which can detect authenticity of Thai flavors. That should help standardize the hodgepodge of dishes people on the streets brazenly call Thai food. Finally, many food stalls have already moved into the civilized air-con comfort of a mall. Khao Pee Nong is now at Emquartier, Ouan Yentafo is at Central Embassy, and Sawang is at Paragon, etc. You’ve even got proper restaurants that have slowly evolved from fine dining (Supanniga), to bistro (EAT at Groove), to street food in a mall (EAT Rice & Noodles). See: street food is cool! Well, non-street street food is. If you too want to help the BMA rid the city’s sidewalks of street food, go buy your lunch at a 7-Eleven near you or visit bkmagazine.com for awesome promos like the B1,350-2,300 lunch at Le Normandie. At those prices, who needs that dirty little ahaan tamsan around the corner!
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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@bkmagazine BK Magazine Friday, May 29, 2015
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upfront HOT OR NOT Malstora
Hot: Second-tier malls Not: Luxury malls Move over Emquartier and Central Embassy. Stop hogging the limelight. The little guys are now fighting back. Terminal 21 just welcomed a branch of the world’s cheapest Michelin-star restaurant, Tim Ho Wan, makers of delicious barbecue pork buns in Hong Kong (see page 20). And Gateway Ekkamai is opening the doors to Snow Town, a little themed village where you can pretend to be in Niseko thanks to some seriously strong air-con (see next week’s BK). Matt Westgate
STREET TALK
Hot: Racism
Not: Compassion
The general message on Thai social media is that if you have any kind of compassion for the Rohingya dying on their boats, you should take one into your condo. Alternatively, one can follow Dear Leader’s advice and actually trade places with a Rohingyan friend. Khon Thai, jai dee. Jim Forest
Hot: Tea houses
Not: Coffee shops
Don’t get us wrong, we need our fix of caffeine as much as anyone else. But all these coffee shops look so similar (industrial, dangling lightbulbs stuff), so we’re happy to welcome a fresh wave of places focused on tea (see page 6) that tap into our regional heritage rather than New York’s.
Hot: Bicycles on tracks Not: Bicycles on roads With talk of imposing a driver’s license on cyclists, it seems that there are really no smart ideas on how to better protect cyclists from drivers who are drunk, speeding, texting or all of the above. In the meantime, you can spin your wheels without the risk at the new bicycle track in Kaset-Nawamin (see page 12).
Thai comic artist Tunlaya Dunnvatanachit (Tuna Dunn), 22, has been selected as one of the six artists representing Thailand for this year’s Project Antalis 10-20-30, a regional event held throughout July and August to showcase established creative artists from Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand. The Chula fine arts graduate is already the author of two books published by Salmon Books—I Like Like You (2013) and Missed (2014)— both of which take a partly minimal comic, partly tragic look at everyday moments in romantic relationships. Her illustration work has also been featured in magazines including Giraffe and The Jam Factory. Here, she discusses where, at such a young age, she finds inspiration for her minimal doodles. What does it mean to be selected as a Young Gun for Project Antalis 10-20-30? My role as a Young Gun is to share my journey so far working in a creative industry, and to engage other young talents in the initiative. I will also provide a series of my work to be published in the 10-20-30 book and website, which Antalis will use when it holds showcases in schools and at other gatherings to strengthen the bonds between Asian nations’ creative communities and connect young talents. What kind of art are you going to present? I want to present work that reflects my personality. I feel like I’m one of the few minimalistic and satirical illustrators in Thailand. My focus is not on technique but more on feeling and storyline.
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Where do you get inspiration for your relationship-themed doodles?
Do you feel Bangkok has a strong artistic community?
People might think of me as lovesick, but I consider myself more of a secret romantic. Think about horror films: you don’t have to experience what it feels like to be a murderer to make one, right? So I usually create a character firsthand and just work around it. Or I just come up with a bunch of scattered ideas and then I try to piece them together. I also take inspiration from the music I’m listening to at any given time. For example, Missed was created around three characters right from the start—Leon, Lila and Judith—and the keyword “death.” I do like the beauty of intimacy and heartbreak. One of the songs I listened to while working on it was “Maybe” by The Chantels.
It is a very small yet very strong and supportive community in which everyone knows each other in one way or another—it’s great to be a part of that niche. The community is growing every year. As for comic arts, the scene is more diverse than ever before; readers’ choices range from online comic essays from Chan to Plariex pocket books and weekly manga.
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What do you have planned for your next project? For my third book, which should be published by the end of this year, I would love to engage my readers in music to go with my illustration. I’ve been considering adding a QR-code of a song I’d like them hear on every page. Interview by Natchaya Angsatitanan
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THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID
by Kathy MacLeod kathymacleod.blogspot.com
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cover story
What’s brewing in Bangkok Where to find the best coffee in your neighborhood. By Dharath Hoonchamlong and Natcha Sanguankiattichai
BK PICK!
Old Town
Rocket Coffeebar
Mitramitr Teahouse
Join the beautiful brunch crowd for eggs Benedict (B210) and artisanal coffee—their cold-brew Rocket Fuel (starting B105) is a musttry. Further branches at Central Embassy and Sukhumvit Soi 49.
A friendly teahouse serving sets of Chinese and Taiwanese tea with snacks of the day (starting at B120/pot).
149 Sathorn Soi 12, 02-635- 0404. Open daily 7am-11pm. www.rocketcoffeebar.com
32 Phra Sumen Rd., 02-126-6567. Open daily 11am-11pm. www.fb.com/mitramitteahouse
I Am Coffee
Cafe Velodome
(only Sat)
\
This small cozy cafe on Sathorn Soi 8 is a gem for coffee (starting from B70), comforting breakfast and its peaceful ambience.
A hub for Bangkok’s cycling community, this cafe at the eastern edge of Thammasat University does a mean espresso affogato (coffee shot over a scoop of ice cream, B90) among other coffees and treats.
Sathorn Soi 8, 098-874-5874. Open Mon-Fri 7am-7pm; Sat 7am-5pm. www.fb.com/iamcoffee.sathon8
Thammasat University (Thaprachan Campus), 2 Prachan Rd., 02-623-6349. Open daily 8am-8pm. www.fb.com/CafeVelodome
On Lok Yun
Double Dogs
Tucked in the golf-centric Thaniya Plaza, this small counter offers decent espresso (B50), sweet treats like banana yogurt cake (B35) and cocoa fudge brownie (B45).
\
ChinatownCharoenkrung On Lok Yun
BK PICK!
BK PICK!
This real oldie has been offering Thai-style tea and coffee (from B20) along with American-style breakfast (from B40) and classic steamed bread with Thai custard (B28) for more than 80 years. 72 Charoenkrung Rd., 02-223-9621. Open daily 6am-4pm
Eiah Sae Join the Chinatown grandpas for traditional Thai tea and coffee (from B20) as well as freshly baked toast (from B20) with toppings like softboiled eggs, jam and Thai custard. 103-105 Yaowarat Rd,02-221-0549. Open daily 4am-7pm
Bridge Sitting in the shadows of the abandoned Sathorn Unique building, this art gallery-slash-cafe does a decent list of coffee (starting B55) and smoothies. Charoen Krung Soi 51, 089-666-2051. Open Wed-Mon 10am-10pm. BTS Saphan Taksin
This serious Chinese tearoom in the middle of Yaowarat offers Japanese and Chinese tea starting from B150/pot with a selection of four desserts (B96). They sometimes host tea and drinks related workshops, too. 406 Yaowarat Rd., 086-329-3075. Open daily 1-9pm. www.fb.com/DoubleDogsTeaRoom
Thaniya Plaza, Silom Rd., 095-245-4942. Open MonFri 7:30am-6pm; Sat-Sun 10am-6pm. BTS Sala Daeng
Rocket Coffeebar
Sun Square Silom, 1043/5 Silom Soi 21-23, 02-2374144. Open daily 11am-11pm. www.samanturkish. com
April Store
Ceresia Coffee Roasters
This small cafe in front of U Center usually sources coffee from interesting roasters like Singapore’s Nylon and Taiwan’s Fika Fika. An americano starts at B70.
F
The second branch of the Phrom Phong favorite is all about freshly roasted, single origin beans. April Store
G/F, Tisco Tower, 48/2 Sathorn Rd., 098 251 4327. Open Mon-Sat 9am-6pm. BTS Sala Daeng
Size S Coffee & Bakery Despite the slightly sterile environment, this allwhite space does strong coffee (espresso, pour over, cold brew), a decent breakfast, as well as delectable tiny treats. 5/25 Soi Ngam Duplee, 02-286-6117. Open Mon-Sat 7:30am-7pm. MRT Lumphini. www.fb.com/SizeScafe Cafe Velodome
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Saman Turkish coffee (B100), tea (B100/pot) and desserts like firit sutlac (Turkish rice pudding, B100), sekerpare (lemon pastry ball, B100) and baklava (B150/3 pieces).
Samyan, Silom & Sathorn
U Center, Chula Soi 42, 097-979-6495. Open Mon-Fri 7:45am-7pm; Sat-Sun 8:45am-6pm. MRT Samyan. www.fb.com/aprilstorebangkok
Flair The Espresso Bar
F
= = = = = = = = =
Tea Coffee Open at or before 8am Open after 8pm Open on weekdays Open on weekends Food Desserts Parking
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Siam Gallery Drip Coffee
BK PICK!
F
As the name suggest, here the emphasis is on drip coffee made from single origin beans from places like Doi Saket, Baan Mae Chan Tai, Goi, etc. They do cold brew (starting from B70), too. 1/F, BACC, Rama 1 Rd., 081-917-2131. Open Tue-Sun 11am-9pm, www.fb.com/GalleryDripCoffee
Wonderwall l The Kaffebar
Ong Tea F
This second branch of the establishment near the giant swing focuses on high-quality tea sourced from rare locations in China, Taiwan and Japan. They also have seasonal tea such as longjing (Chinese green tea) and lishan (Taiwanese oolong tea). Tea sets starts from B200-350. Takeaway packs available as 80g and 120g (B650-2,700).
I+D Style Cafe x Brave Roasters
Elysian
G/F, Siam Paragon, 02- 610 -7516. Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Siam
Casa Lapin x26
I+D Style Cafe x Brave Roasters F
Situated on the ground floor of Siam Center, it’s a handicraft store, curated by the Department of International Trade Promotion, plus a café featuring the beans and team from the much-loved Brave Roasters.
Gallery Drip Coffee
Casa Lapin x26
Elysian
Victory Monument Granola
Factory Cafe & Brew Bar
Phaya Thai Rd., 085-145-4184. Open Mon-Sat 9am-7:30pm; Sun 10am-4pm. BTS Victory Monument. www.fb.com/factoryespressobar
Granola
F
BK PICK!
This cafe-cum-restaurant from Copenhagen serves Nordic-influenced drinks and food. 3/F, Central Embassy, 1031 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-1605626. Open daily 11am-10pm. BTS Phloen Chit
Siwilai Rocket Coffeebar F
More coffee and breakfast favorites from the Rocket crew with the added bonus of views of the British Embassy’s gardens. 5/F, Central Embassy, 1031 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-1605809. Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Phloen Chit
Ceresia
Asoke/Nana
Phrom Phong
Artis
Ceresia
F
This cafe from California sources beans from all around the world and roasts them fresh daily. Have them prepared to your preference. Single origin espresso starts at B90. 390/20 Sukhumvit Soi 18, 02-262-0760. Open daily 6:30am-7pm www.fb.com/artisbangkok BTS Asoke
Phloen Chit
The most recent opening from the Casa Lapin crew (Thonglor, Ari) adds a hostel, co-working space and flower shop to its winning coffee offerings. Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02- 000 -5546. Open daily 7:30am-10pm
G/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-678-5000. Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Siam
This place offers multiple brewing methods— drip, siphon, Aeropress and cold brew—along with desserts and other drinks like chocolate and soda.
BK PICK!
Serendib This cute, small Japanese place is serious enough to adjust the hardness of water to match the selection of Ceylon tea (B120/pot). The cafe also has plentiful baked items like scones (B55). 120/24 Sukhumvit Soi 23, Open daily 11am-7pm. 02-115-2144. MRT Sukhumvit. www.fb.com/ Serendibtearoom
Habesha This slightly shady spot is a rarity in this town. Don’t leave without ordering a strong Ethiopian coffee (B100), a real ceremony to be savored with its accompanying burning incense and snack of lightly roasted barley and peanuts. 1/26 Sukhumvit Soi 3 (Nana). Open daily 11am-10pm. BTS Nana
The Thai-Venezuelan roaster sells single origin and blended coffee from all over the world. Filter starts at B95 while espresso is B70. Or take home their freshly roasted beans from B480/250g. They have another branch in Soi Sala Daeng. 593/29-41 Sukhumvit Soi 33/1, 098-251-4327. Open Tue-Sun 8am-6pm. BTS Phrom Phong. goo.gl/PxZk0d
Wonderwall l The Kaffebar F
Small batches of new beans are selected from artisanal roasters all over the world. Try their coffee (starting at B60) with the nice pastries (starting at B50) made in-house. Avora 31 Residence, 28 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 02-1087575. Open daily 7am-7pm www.fb.com/WKaffebar
39Espresso Situated right by the BTS, the specialty here is Australian-style coffee—try a flat white at B60 or a shot of espresso, made with both local and Australian beans for B55. 665 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 092-753-8928. Open Mon-Sat 7am-7pm; Sun 9am-5pm. BTS Phrom Phong
Divided into three parts—a Moroccan-style tea room, garden terrace and modern living room— this tea house sources tea locally and makes its own blends in-house. Try the recommended Tia (hot B140; cold B150) which is a blend of green tea, orange peel and jasmine. Sukhumvit Soi 49/1, 02-662-6964. Open Tue-Sun 9am-8pm. BTS Phrom Phong. www.elysian-tea.com
Pacamara
F
The Chiang Mai roaster brings its expertise to Bangkok. Coffee starts at B65 (Thai-style iced coffee), while single origin beans are B80 for an espresso. 2/F Rain Hill, Sukhumvit Soi 47, 02-261-7830. Open Mon-Thu 9am-9:30pm; Fri-Sun 8am-9:30pm. www. fb.com/pacamaracoffee
Thonglor Agalico
F
This all-white British tea room sits in a lush garden with a beautiful gazebo and is known for homemade scones, quiche and selections of tea. Prices start from B100-B250. 20 Sukhumvit Soi 51, 089-226-6445. Open Fri-Sun 10am-6pm
Tealily Cafe
NEW!
This new tea cafe serves matcha from Kyoto, both hot (B100) and iced (B105), with Japanese treats like goma dango set (B105) and sweet potato (B100) Sukhumvit 49/1, 02- 019-8287. Open Thu-Tue 9am-8pm. www.fb.com/tealilycafe
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cover story One Ounce for Onion Stylish fashion accessories and delicious in-house coffee from Brave Roaster (starting at B90) as well as some brunchy dishes and desserts. 19/12 Ekkamai Soi 12, 080-046-6885. Open daily 9am-8pm. www.fb.com/oneounceforonion Ink & Lion Cafe
Nikko Cafe This hip Zen-inspired coffee shop on Ekkamai Soi 12 offers cocktails and shisha, along with caffeinated beverages like espresso on the rock (B100). They’ve just open a new branch in on Sukhumvit Soi 23. Ekkamai Soi 12, 02-381-5291. Open daily 10am-midnight
Casa Lapin x49
Hands and Heart
The experimental, multi-label fashion boutique Liberty Area One is now home to this miniscule cafe serving coffee from Ceresia Roasters and baked goods from Conkey’s.
Casa Lapin x49 This Brooklyn-evoking cafe serves selected coffee (from B85)—choose from espresso machine, drip or French press expertly made by the owner, Surapan Tanta—with baked items from Brooklyn Baker. Two more branches, in Sukhumvit Soi 26 and Ari.
2/F, Ekamai Mall, Ekkamai Soi 10, 089-505-1244. Open Tue-Sun 11am-10pm
Bang Na
Opposite Samitivej Hospital, Sukhumvit Soi 49, 081261-2040. Open daily 8am-5pm
Hands and Heart
Amatissimo Cafe
NEW!
This black and white cafe is serious about handbrewed coffee (Aeropress, pour-over and Chemex), which they say is made only from seasonal AA-grade single origin beans.
Peace Oriental Teahouse
Ascella Condominium, 33 Sukhumvit Soi 38, 081-4427977. Open daily 7am-9:30pm
Roast Coffee & Eatery Roast remains high on most brunch-goers’ checklists; on top of the great coffee, the menu packs genuine crowd-pleasers like the crab cake Benedict (B350).
F
The third branch of the Rocket coffee empire branches out with a substantial dinner menu. 1/F, Grease building, Piman 49, Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-662-6637. Open daily 7am-11pm
Ekkamai BK PICK!
This cafe-meet-gallery does both machine (B90) and slow drip (B120) with beans from local roasters like Brave, Ceresia and Pacamara as well as other international roasters. Try their pastries from Size S Coffee & Bakery as well. 1/7 Ekkamai Soi 2, 02-002-6874. Open Mon-Tue 9am-6pm; Thu-Fri 9am-6pm; Sat-Sun 10am-7pm, www.fb.com/inkandlioncafe
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Behind Paradise Park, Srinakarin Soi 55, 081-8980070. Open Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 9am-6pm
Coffee Roasting F
Pla Dib’s morning spot for breakfast serves fresh coffee roasted in-house. Coffee starts at B80.
SeenSpace, Thonglor Soi 13, 02-185-2865. Open MonThu 10am-11pm, Fri-Sat 9am-11pm and Sun 9am-10pm
Rocket S 49
Best known for its outstanding coffee, made from their own blend of beans, and delicious pastries like the bacon cheese roll (B85) and almond croissant (B80). There’s also a new branch at Emquartier.
Ari
F
Ink & Lion Cafe
Petite Cafe x Liberty Area One
Onion Store
Peace Oriental Teahouse
NEW!
This zen-looking oriental tea room offers seasonal tea sourced from China, Japan, Taiwan and Thailand, each brewed with different techniques. The three main types are hot tea (B180-450/ pot), matcha (B450-1,980/bowl) and matcha latte (B150/200ml). 70/5 Sukhumvit Soi 63 (Ekkamai), 097-267-2626. Open Sun-Thu 10am-8.30pm; Fri-Sat 10am-11pm. www.fb.com/peace.t.house
Kaizen Cafe
NEW!
F
Inspired by Australia’s coffee scene, this all-white cafe at the end of Ekkamai not only brews coffee but also does tea and other experimental drinks. The cafe features cakes from Moonne as well. Tai Ping Tower, 582/5 Ekkamai Soi 26 and 28, 098831-6009. Open daily 7am-7pm. BTS Ekkamai. on. fb.me/1aIOKSH
Kaizen Cafe
Roots
1/1 Ari Samphan Soi 7, 02-279-8185. Open Tue-Sun 8am-3pm
Onion Store
This weekend cafe is the coffee-focused sister to famous brunch spot Roast. Roots sources its beans from both local and international producers, roasts them on-site and serves a heady brew—try the cold brew (B100). Sukhumvit Soi 63 (Ekkamai), between sois 15 and 17, 088-190-5950. Open Sat-Sun 12pm-6pm, www. fb.com/rootsbkk
This new Brave Roasters outlet has a little coffee corner with a very short menu. Get an espresso at B90 or a filter at B130. Though the roaster has relocated to here, you can still find his beans at One Ounce for Onion in Ekkamai and I+D Style Café in Siam. 2/F between Aree Samphan Soi 10 and 11, Open daily 10am-6pm
Phil Cafe 61 F
Another coffee shop run by a small roaster. Expect both single origins and blends roasted by Phil Coffee Company with your choice of brew: filter, espresso or split espresso. An espresso shot starts at Btk. 21 Sukhumvit Soi 61, 02-001-5850, 082-111-2249. O p e n T u e - S u n 9 a m - 6 p m . w w w. f b . c o m / philcoffeecompany
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Tea Coffee Open before 8am Open after 8pm Open on weekdays Open on weekends Food Desserts Parking
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escapes ESCAPE ROUTES By Monruedee Jansuttipan and Pinnyada Tanitnon
CHIANG MAI
Off the Graph One of the most popular coffee makers in Chiang Mai, Graph Cafe, is branching out with a bigger food-focused venue, Graph Table (Moonmuang Soi 6, Sriphoom, 086-567-3330. www. fb.com/graphtable). Not far from the tiny cafe in Chiang Mai’s Old Town, the spot welcomes you with a dark-hued wooden façade, window boxes and hanging plants. A friend of the owner who hails from Sicily, Italy, has trained the kitchen staff on fresh homemade Italian cuisine made with organic local produce such as free-range eggs from a farm in Lamphun. For breakfast, expect artfully named egg dishes such as Monet (mashed avocado on salsa salad, B90) and Post Modern (eggs Benedict with deboned emilano ham on toast, B120) or the Moonmuang (poached egg on toast with baked beans and grilled mushroom, B110). They also serve salads, garlic bread and lasagna along with classic pizzas (ranging from B180-260) and pastas (B160-195). Of course, you’re still guaranteed a good cup of coffee, too.
KRABI
Getaway Music Cure your music festival withdrawals at the second Krabi Music Festival this Jun 20, held at the Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort. Local pop legend J Jetrin will headline the night, supported by the hotel’s inhouse and guest DJs. Entry costs B500 per person with one free drink. The resort is also offering special packages for partygoers. A one-night stay for two people costs B3,990, while a two-night stay for two people is B6,980. Both packages come with two festival tickets and two free drinks. Before you start packing, don’t forget the dress code is strictly all-white. Contact 075-627-800 or e-mail H6184-RE@sofitel.com for tickets or additional information.
MAE SOT
Border Flights Starting Jun 2, those seeking to fly up north to Mae Sot have another option other than Nok Air. Kan Airlines (www.kanairlines.com) has opened up a new low-cost route that takes off from Don Muang airport. To celebrate, the airlines is offering passengers an introductory rate of just B990 one-way, inclusive of a warm in-flight meal and a free checked bag weighing up to 15kg. Although these planes won’t take off until June, you can already book your trip on Kan Airlines’ website. We don’t know how long this preliminary deal will last, but word is you should book early before the price suddenly shoots up.
KORAT
In Bloom This year’s Dok Krachaiao Blooming Festival takes place from Jun 1-Aug 31 in Chaiyaphum. Also known as the Siam tulip, the magenta-colored flowers come into season amid the fog every June, right before the start of rainy season. The festival will be held at the picturesque Pa Hin Ngam National Park, an area surrounded by giant rocks, beautifully shaped by the wind and rain over the years. Apart from getting to admire the abundant blooms in the meadow, there will also be music concerts, sightseeing and trekking tours, as well as booths selling OTOP Products. For more informations, contact the local TAT office at 044-213-666.
Have some cool rooms? Email your news and promotions to travel@asia-city.co.th
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SPORT
Cycling Route There’s a new park especially for urban cyclists looking to get off Bangkok’s notorious roads. Located in the Kaset-Nawamin neighborhood, the 10-rai Peppermint Bike Park launched earlier this month and offers two bike paths that occasionally intersect; the blue track is paved with asphalt and suited for beginners, while the extreme black track is ideal for mountain bikers, offering a full range of obstacles such as horseshoe turns and elevated sections. While the paved course is only about one kilometer in length, you can alternate between the two tracks for a varied ride. Day biking is B150 and night biking is B200, while annual membership (B200) gets you a 50-baht discount each visit. Yothin Phatthana Soi 3, Praditmanutham Rd., 090-980-1368. Open daily 7am-5:30pm and 6pm-10pm. www.fb.com/PeppermintBikePark
BEAUTY
HOME
BEAUTY
Pretty Protective
Home Refresh
Split Ends
The high-priced luxury French skincare brand La Mer has now launched a product which, at B3,800 for 40ml, is affordable for more than the One Percent. Reparative SkinTint SPF 30 is designed to be a daily-use skin moisturizer, foundation and sunscreen rolled into one. So why isn’t it called a BB or CC Cream? La Mer says it does more than just color correct, and boasts of additional cell protection and reparative properties. If you do belong to one percent, the brand’s signature Crème de la Mer is one of the most premium anti-aging creams in the world, priced at B7,000/30ml. Available at M/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-8000. BTS Siam
The long-established local furniture outlet 128 Studio begins its annual sale this Saturday. From May 30-Jun 7, get discounts of up to 70 percent on genuine leather sofas in simple-yet-timeless styles, along with other lines including dining chairs, beds and home accessories. Styles range from tufted chesterfield sofas to modernist pieces with steal highlights. Event Hall, Crystal Design Center, Praditmanutham Rd. 02-1022082 and 081-702-9128. www.128studio.com
Due to the renovations at Siam Discovery, Singaporean beauty salon Browhaus has split its services into two shops. Brow and lash grooming services can now be found at a Siam Center pop-up offering classic brow threading, tweezing, tinting, lash perming and extensions. Meanwhile, body waxing services have been moved to a permanent new salon in Central Embassy called Strip. 2/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-6580344. 4/F, Central Embassy, 1031 Phloen Chit Rd., 091-1037045 www.fb.com/browhaus.th
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Ari's Most Camera-Worthy Night Spots Ari is one of Bangkok’s most charming areas and is always worth revisiting. The leafy streets make a shop, restaurant and bar-hopping a breeze, whether it’s day or night. Here’s how to spend an evening chilling in Ari.
Food Shot Mode
Auto Mode
5pm: After-Work Delights
6pm: Hit the Shops
Not just a residential area, Ari is busy with office workers at all times of day. Reward yourself with an after-work treat or two like the popular red velvet cheesecake-brownie (B115) or mango crepe cake (B120) at 103+ Factory (Ari Soi 4, 081-495-1555). Just cross the street from Ari Soi 4, Porcupine (Opposite Ari Soi 4, 086-889-9210) is set in a beautiful old-house-turned-cafe with a tiny garden out front. The interior goes with a pretty camping theme, ideal for Instagram—just make sure you capture their recommended apple crumble (B128) or banoffee pie (B138) in the frame. If you’d prefer a scone, head along to the brand new Witty Ville Cafe (Ari Soi 1, 081-735-6604), which does everything from the classic plain flavor (B40) to cranberry (B50), bacon and cheese (B55) and peanut butter (B55) options.
Yes, there’s more to Ari than just eating and drinking. Late last year, fast-rising Thai fashion designer Teerut “Vick” Wongwatanasin launched his second line, Vick’s Weekend, complete with a cute flagship store on Ari Soi 2 (02-279-1260). While Vick’s focuses more on women’s clothing, guys looking for a nice pair of sunglasses or a new pair of shoes should definitely check out Onion Store: Aree (Soi Ari Samphan, between soi 10 and 11). Owner House Sorasak, the guitarist of rock band Slur, has brought his handpicked multilabel store concept from Ekkamai to Ari. White walls, wooden furniture, coffee corner: this store is pure eye candy.
Photo tips: It’s not always true that you need natural light to get a nice food shot. Samsung Galaxy S6’s ‘Professional Camera’ mode lets you adjust the temperature, white balance and select the food shot function before you snap your shot.
Photo tips: Don’t fret about low light. The Samsung Galaxy S6’s rear camera has an f/1.9 aperture which allows you to get a bright and clear picture even in the low light. This is also applied to both outdoor and indoor shot.
MORE SAMSUNG GALAXY S6 FUNCTIONS, MORE FUN!
7pm: Quick Dinner
Selective Focus Mode
Ari’s gone burger and food truck crazy. A few steps from Vick’s you’ll find the photogenic seafood truck, Summer Street (Ari Soi 2). If you’ve brought a friend, order the S set for two (B399) consisting of freshwater prawns, squid, green mussels, scallops, spotted Babylon snails and cockles. If you’re more into burgers, try Jim’s Burger & Beer (Ari Soi 3, 02-000-9598) for a juicy beef option along with draft beer, or head to Salt’s sister restaurant, Salt Smoke (Ari Soi 1). Located behind Piyawan Building, this tiny spot feels somewhere between a food truck and a restaurant, with less than 10 seats in total. Make sure you head there early. We recommend the signature WTF burger (foie gras, bacon, wagyu beef patty and cheese, B380) or keep thing simple with Cheese a Beef (wagyu, smoke mossarella and bacon, B280). Photo tips: The Samsung Galaxy S6's ‘Selective Focus’ function allows you to focus on your chosen item and blur out the background, just like a DSLR.
brought to you by Samsung Galaxy S6
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9pm: Drink Up
Pro Camera Mode
You’ve had dinner, now it’s time for a drink. There are no fancy clubs here. Instead, Ari is all about kicking back with a quality brew. If you’re into imported craft beers, O’Glee is the spot for you—they have probably the best selection this side of town. If you’d prefer cocktails and a live band, Aree, located opposite Salt, has you covered. Similarly, newcomer Moire offers live music every night, served up alongside Thai drinking food and bottles to share. Local beers are also available starting from B130 for Singha. Photos tips: If you want to capture the night vibes inside the bar to make your friends jealous, the Samsung Galaxy S6’s Real Time HDR compliments the f/1.9 focus to ensure even better scenes in low light.
Not only the mentioned function, Samsung Galaxy S6 comes with Quick Launch feature that lets you use your camera within 0.7 seconds just by double tapping the home button. The life-saving IR White Balance helps you automatically adjust the resolution for both photo and video plus the Image Stabilization prevents your photos or video from being blurry even in low light. Now with Samsung Galaxy S6, you don’t have to worry about shooting after dark anymore.
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Retail Rebels Five new stores and cafes carrying fresh, edgy finds. By BK Editorial
Another Story
Onion Store: Aree
2/7: Twice A Week Founded by Teema “Min” Muekthong, a full-time lecturer at King Mongkut University of Technology Thonburi’s School of Architecture and Design, this is a new concept store for Thai designer items. Min has collaborated with the team from the old Fotoguffy Polaroid shop, which used to occupy the same space, to offer them a wall dedicated to Polaroid products, while on the other side of the store is a cafe. 2/7 focuses on brands that don’t have their own shop yet, like Ease Embroidery wall decor, A Pale Petal tote bags, Sattawat furniture and Pana Objects home decor. The cafe offers hot drip (B58) and cold brew (B88) coffee. Note the shop is normally only open on weekends, but sometimes opens during the week too, so do check their Facebook page (www. fb.com/27twiceaweek). 208 Rama 4 Soi 50 (Chulalongkorn), 087-507-1997
Another Story Located on the fourth floor of Emquartier’s Helix Building, this new concept store gathers designer products from all over the world with a heavy focus on stationery and home decor, plus some fashion. The huge one-stop space also comprises a gallery, cafe and flower shop. Here you can find over 160 imported brands, with another 70 from Thailand, including aromatherapy products from Bsab Thailand, stationery from local favorites Gray Ray, Labrador and Midori and home decor from Plural Design, PDM Brand, Karv Design and Alltag. The cafe is no afterthought, featuring sweets from Issaya Siamese Club, baked goods from Amantee, butter and cheese from Jean Yves Bordier and wine supplied by Wine Garage. The Yellow Korner is a gallery space with permanent and rotating exhibitions, while the Plant House is a flower shop. 4/F, The Emquartier, Helix Building, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-003-6138/9. BTS Phrom Phong
The Reco Room With its bare brick, raw wood and cement, this stylishly turned out recent addition to Ekamai Mall looks more like a cafe than a record store. The funk and jazz-focused vinyl collection, largely
sourced from the US, features plenty of Miles Davis, Marvin Gaye and Gil Scott-Heron. As for audio set-ups, you won’t find any faux-vintage Crosley players here; this stuff’s the real deal. We dig the old-school amplifiers, though these don’t come cheap. Vinyl starts from B300 for the reissue of GMM Grammy ‘90s hits to B1,490 for the new release from Cyndi Seui.
2/7: Twice A Week
The Reco Room, Ekamai Mall, 3 Ekkamai Soi 10, 085-322-5403
Onion Store: Aree The hip multi-label store Onion has opened a new branch in the Ari neighborhood. Owner House Sorasak wants this one to feel more like a fashion boutique than a cafe, so most of the spacious white venue is dedicated to clothing and accessories with only one corner for coffee from regular collaborator Brave Roasters. The main room is filled with mostly imported cult label brands like Saturdays Surf NYC, Beton x Cire and Stanley & Sons. There’s also a room for vintage-wear, including lots of never-before-worn deadstock from New York. As for coffee, the menu is short but high quality. An El Salvador espresso shot will set you back B90 (B100 with milk), while you can also order filter, pourover and drip made with either Thai or international beans (B130). House also plans to import more unisex fashion items, as well as expand into home decor by adding price tags to all the furniture in-store.
The Reco Room
2/F, 66 Rama 6 Soi 30. www.onionbkk.com
Marimekko The cult mid-century fashion and home decor brand Marimekko has now arrived in Bangkok. The Finnish design house dates back to 1951, and is best known for its classic Unikko floral design and vibrant color schemes. The new store at CentralWorld is part of Marimekko’s expansion into Asia with 40 new flagship stores across the region. Prices start at B690 for a simple coin bag and go up to B18,000 for the jumpsuit. 1 / F, C e n t r a l W o r l d , R a t c h a d a m r i R d . , 0 2 -2 5 2 -7 0 3 3 . www.marimekko.com Marimekko
TREND Flamingo Craze
Essentials Kloset. 3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd. 02-658-1729. BTS Siam. Madame Flamingo and Kate Spade. 1/F, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd. 02-613-1268 (MF) and 02-646-1260 (KS) BTS Siam/Chit Lom Long-sleeve blouse, Kloset, B7,450
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Shorts, Kloset, B4,850
Flats, Madame Flamingo, B1,590
Ring, Good After Nine, price TBA
Flamingo clutch, Kate Spade, price TBA
Good After Nine. Shop online at goodafternine.com
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Right-Hand Man From Jun 3-6, chef Gilles Reinhardt of the three-Michelin-star L’Auberge du Pont de Collonges in Lyon, France, returns to Wine Pub to celebrate the 50th consecutive year the restaurant has been awarded three stars. L’Auberge du Pont de Collonges belongs to the celebrated French chef Paul Bocuse, whose fame lies in nouvelle cuisine (as opposed to classique cuisine) and who was named Chef of the Century by The Culinary Institute of America. Reinhardt trained directly under Bocuse, and was also awarded the title Meilleur Ouvrier de France in 2004. On this visit, he brings Bocuse’s signature black truffle soup V.G.E along as part of three-and five-course menus priced at B2,999-5,555/person. 2/F, Pullman Bangkok King Power, 8/2 Rangnam Rd., 02-6809999. BTS Victory Monument
RESTAURANT
BRUNCH
DEAL
Franco Nippon
Sunday Kebabs
Power Lunch
The new project from restaurateur Fred Meyer (Issaya Siamese Club, Namsaah Bottling Trust and Pizza Massilia) resides in a cutely-decorated shophouse in the up-and-coming Suan Phlu neighborhood. Kom-Ba-Wa serves creative Japanese dishes by chef Goro Takatsu. On top of sushi made using the highest-grade produce, like fresh scallops (B790), try creations like the aged Tajima wagyu beef steak with ponzu jelly (B1,750) and the squid ink ramen with Maine lobster and uni sauce (B1,500). The desserts, created by Issaya’s dessert chef, are equally fancy, such as the must-try mochi with red bean mousse and strawberry jelly (B250).
Upscale Indian kebab restaurant Charcoal is rolling out a new allyou-can-eat Sunday brunch. At B625, you’ll get to order tender grilled meats from the tandoori oven and receive a glass of welcome bubbles. You can also add seafood dishes or free-flow sparkling for B999, or get both at B1,375. Kids under 12 get 50-percent off and swimming pool access with towel. Still thirsty? Get buy-one-get-one-free on cocktails designed by Joseph Boroski. Every Sunday, 11am-3pm. 5/F, Fraser Suites, Sukhumvit Soi 11, 089-307-1111. BTS Nana
High-end Japanese chain Zuma has just launched a new business lunch set menu for those looking to win over their clients through innovative dishes and imported ingredients. For B780 per person, you can choose from four starter options, such as crispy fried squid with green chili and lime or beef tataki with soy, ginger lime and coriander dressing. For mains, select from five options, such as salmon fillet with teriyaki sauce and sliced pickled cucumber or barbecue pork ribs with spicy cashew nuts and spring onions. You can also upgrade; for an additional B350, you can get the likes of black cod marinated with saikyo miso wrapped in hoba leaf or the 80g Japanese wagyu sirloin with signature sauces and fresh wasabi. G/F, St. Regis, Rajadamri Rd., 02-252-4707. Open daily noon-3pm, 6pm-11pm. BTS Rajadamri
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Paris Mikki
DESSERT
Sweet Spots Bangkok’s best new dessert cafes. By Dharath Hoonchamlong and Natcha Sanguankiattichai
Dadaya
Paris Mikki After training in Paris for nine years at top names like Laduree and Angelina, Thai pastry chef Carol Boosaba recently opened a little white and blue cafe in Asoke. At Paris Mikki all the cakes and pastry are baked daily in limited numbers. Aiming for a traditional and authentic French taste, the menu rotates depending on seasonal ingredients. We recommend classics like the croissant pur beurre (B85), St. Honore (a pile of creamy choux, B280), tarte au chocolat (B165) and millefeuille (B190). Note: you can call to reserve the sweets as they often sell out. 1/F, Metha Wattana, 27 Sukhumvit Soi 19, 088-870-0020. Open TueSun 11am-8pm. BTS Asok
Pinkberry Frozen yogurt brands have been popping up all over Bangkok for years. Now, Pinkberry offers a taste of upscale, Hollywood froyo. Having built a name for its tart-tasting frozen yogurt, the company has expanded to 21 countries. You can find its humble start in Bangkok on the second floor of Central Chidlom. 2/F, Central Chidlom, 1027 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-650-3229 Open daily 10am-9:30pm. BTS Chit Lom
Dadaya One of the few shops in Bangkok offering the traditional Japanese sweet treat obanyaki (a form of roundcake with various fillings) has moved from its old location at Center One to Central Plaza Ladprao. The new Dadaya has a more Japanese look to it, and not only does traditional sweet obanyaki in flavors like red bean and custard (both B40) but also many cheap savory options, such as the squid okonomiyaki (Japa-
Pinkberry
nese pizza, B45), chicken teriyaki (B45) and tuna salad (B45). Also, keep your eye out for monthly special obanyaki fillings like Japanese curry. G/F, Central Plaza Ladprao, 1693 Phahon Yothin Rd., 095 003 2830. Open daily 9am-10pm. MRT Phahon Yothin
Croissant Taiyaki Having conquered Instagram with pop-up booths at Esplanade Ratchadapisek and Siam Square in recent months, Croissant Taiyaki has finally opened permanent outlets at Mega Bangna, Emquartier and Siam Center. The Japanese brand offers a playful twist on traditional taiyaki (fish-shaped cake) by using croissant dough instead of cake batter. Join the queues at either branch for the classic red bean (B60), cold custard (B65) and each branch’s special options.
Croissant Taiyaki
G/F, The Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd. Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Phrom Phong
Patisserie Rosie Thonglor has welcomed a new patisserie among all the nightclubs and izakayas. Situated in a shop-house decked out in a vintage style, Patisserie Rosie serves classics with modern twists. Highlights include the light chocolate tart (B160) and cherry ripe (B180), which you can enjoy with oriental tea from Double Dogs (from B120/pot). They also have more substantial bites like open sandwiches (B250) and quiche with salad (B150), as well as weekend brunch. 113/2 Thonglor Soi 10, 092-542-9900. Open Tue-Sun noon-9:30pm
Patisserie Rosie
Chika Watanabe
NEWS Bun in the Oven
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Original Tim Ho Wan in Hong Kong
Tim Ho Wan, the Hong Kong hole-in-the-wall restaurant that surprised the world by gaining a Michelin star, is Bangkok-bound. While there’s yet to be an official announcement, new signage spotted at Terminal 21 mall (3/F) all but confirms the restaurant’s arrival for August. Renowned dim sum chef Mak Kwai Pui (Le Meridien, Lung King Heen) founded Tim Ho Wan, which translates roughly to “add good luck” in Cantonese, in 2009. One year later it was awarded a Michelin star. The Bangkok move follows a spate of new openings around Australasia including branches in Hanoi, Manila and Sydney.
Arguably the restaurant’s most famous dish is the BBQ pork bun, a crumbly baked bun filled with oozing sweet-and-savory barbecued pork. Other highlights include the light and spongy egg cake and the vermicelli roll with pig’s liver, but you can also expect a long, long list of dim sum classics. The best thing is you can enjoy a top dining experience for typically little more than 1,000 baht. We’ll have to wait and see if the Bangkok branch follows the example of the original 19-seater Hong Kong venue by implementing a strict no-bookings policy. However, it’s fair to say we can expect a long queue on opening day. By Carl Dixon
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blends
Whisky Collections At these stylish whisky bars, looking the part is half the fun. The other half? It’s in your glass. Black Amber Social Club
1881 by Water Library
Black Amber Social Club The look: Thonglor’s super-stylish Black Amber Barber Shop & Tattoo has expanded across the road with a full-on gentlemen’s whisky bar and networking spot. Situated on the first floor of this three-story house, this bar’s handsome cabinet-of-curiosities-inspired decor features plenty of leather and suede as well as the owner’s private collection of exotic decorative items, from alligator skulls and an ostrich skeleton to a clown model. Wear this: Head up to Toast Bespoke on the second floor for a custom-made suit with a little attitude. Drink this: Whisky is the main focus, here. The shelves are filled with familiar bottles like The Glenlivet, Jameson and Chivas Regal 12. Prices, rather reasonably, start from B200 a glass or try the Chival Regal Whisky flight consisting of Chivas Regal 12 years, Chivas Regal Extra and Chivas Regal 18 years (B540). 160/17 Thonglor Soi 6, 092-2762772. Open daily 6pm-1am. Facebook: blackambersocialclub
Whisgars Ploenchit The style: This true speakeasy is located at the back of a plaza up a tiny staircase and features plenty of leather couches, while there’s also a new zone with vintage rounded high tables giving more of a club vibe. Wear this: To keep your cigar in pristine condition, try the custom leather carry cases made by Container (available at The Selected, 3/F, Siam Center). Drink this: The highlights are over 100 single malts and cigars. Get there between 4-8pm for the selection of rotating specials at B180/glass like The Glenlivet and Smokehead Islay. 2/F, Mahatun Building, Phloen Chit Rd. BTS Phloen Chit. Open daily 2pm-2am. Facebook: Whisgarsploenchit
brought to you by Chivas Regal
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Manhattan Bar
S’mores
The look: Located on the second floor of the JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok, next to the hotel’s popular New York Steak House, the narrow space is more than a hotel bar thanks to purple and gray lounge chairs that add a touch of playfulness to the acres of dark wood and framed black and white photographs. Wear this: Classic with a twist. Dress as neatly as possible to go with the gentlemen’s bar vibe, but don’t forget to enliven your suit with a unique pocket square. Try Kamui Lim Fine Arts & Decor. Drink this: Try their signature Manhattan (bourbon and sweet vermouth, B400) or go for something solid and simple like Chivas Regal Extra on the rocks (B450 by the glass).
The style: Run by the same team as Cafe de Tu, this elegant and spacious restaurant has a striking position on the second floor for Groove at CentralWorld and an equally striking American hunting lodge vibe. The food focuses on classic Western dishes, backed up by a creative drink list that’s big on whisky. Wear this: Denim’s the way to go here but it has to be the best quality. Go check out multi-label store American Rag Cie (G/F, CentralWorld) for jeans from BLK DNM and Italian shades from Illesteva. Drink this: The mixology consultants of Vice Versa have created a list that’s highly creative. Try their Scottish Recipe of Old Fashioned made with Chivas Regal 18, cinnamon syrup, Angostura bitters, Ricard mist and anis (B370).
2/F, JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok, 4 Sukhumvit Soi 2, 02-656-7700 ext. 4230. Open daily 5:30pm-1am
1881 by Water Library The style: Water Library’s gastro bar at this breezy, partly open-air mall is inspired by a 19th-century steam power plant while the cocktails are all about inventive concoctions using home-infused spirits. This space offers a drink-friendly atmosphere that is perfect for an after-work hang out. Wear this: Luxury swag, but avoid the cliched H or LV belts. Try some woven leather accessories from Bottega Veneta (available at M/F, Siam Paragon) instead. Drink this: Water Library is one of the best places to get good cocktails. Order something from their classic list like the newly launched XO-Fashioned (Chivas Regal Extra, cinnamon syrup and Peychaud’s bitter, garnished with a cinnamon stick and orange peel, B380). Groove@CentralWorld, Rama 1 Rd. 02-613-1778. Open daily 10-1am. Facebook: 1881 by Water Library
2/F, Groove@CentralWorld, Rama 1 Rd., 02-613-1271. Open daily 11am-1am. Facebook: S’mores Bangkok
S’mores
Manhattan Bar
She Bar The style: Located in the middle of Thonglor’s busiest nightlife strip, She Bar is a great spot for spicy Thai dishes, whisky deals and live music daily. The bar is very laid back with a spacey outdoor area, with a removable roof so you don’t need to worry about the upcoming rainy season. Wear this: The removable roof might save you from the rain but doesn’t offer much protection for your suede loafers. Head across the road to gentleman’s shoe specialist Mango Mojito for a suede protector spray. Drink this: A shared bottle of whisky really fits the character of this place, especially thanks to charming deals on Chivas Regal Extra at B1,990 (from B2,290) per bottle every Tuesday. 522/3 Penny’s Balcony, Thonglor 16, Sukhumvit Soi 55, 02-714-7642. Mon 4pm-12:30am and Tue-Sun 11am-12:30am Facebook: She Bar
She Bar
Whisgars Ploenchit
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bites
OPEN DOOR
Kitaohji A 70-year-old Japanese fine dining restaurant opens in Thonglor. The buzz: Established in Ginza more than 70 years ago, Kitaohji has opened its first branch outside of Japan, in Thonglor. The specialty is kaiseki, meticulously-presented multi-course meals, made with seasonal ingredients. Unlike any of the branches in Japan, this one accepts walk-in customers and also offers a few a la carte options. The decor: Nestled in the soi behind Eight Thonglor, the restaurant sits in a traditional-looking Japanese house amid a beautifully-landscaped Zen garden with lots of bamboo plants. Inside is more modern than the exterior suggests, but the decor is predictably dominated by wood.
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The food and drinks: Kaiseki follows a set order, according to dish type, with each specific selection dependent on the day’s produce. First, a cold appetizer such as steamed squid and red beans is served to the table even before the diners arrive, followed by sashimi. The main course is then served, followed by a vinegar dish, deep-fried dish, rice or noodles, and dessert. The dinner is priced by the ingredients in your main dish. For now, the options are wagyu kakuni (braised beef, B2,000), charcoal-grilled wagyu (B2,500), wagyu steak (B3,500), steamed hair crab (B3,500) and grilled taraba king crab (B4,500)—all are exquisitely prepared. The a la carte menu covers sushi and sashimi, as well as select dishes from the kaiseki options like grilled wagyu
(B2,800/200g) and grilled taraba king crab (B2,500). Of course, there’s a wide variety of drinks, namely sake, which starts at B490 per 150ml tokkuri (ceramic flask), and umeshu (plum liquor), which starts at B350 per 60ml glass. Why you should care: If you’ve got the cash, this is one of very few restaurants in Bangkok that specializes in kaiseki, which gives you an all-round experience of Japanese food. Natcha Sanguankiattichai
212 Thonglor Soi 8, 02-174-7997. Open Tue-Sun 6 -11pm. www.fb.com/KitaohjiBKK
BK Magazine Friday, May 29, 2015
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Kati
TABLE TALK Guay Teaw Ruer Nai Ngork
Nikko Cafe
208 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 02-170-8440. Open Sun-Thu 5pm-midnight; Fri-Sat 5pm-2am
NEW AND NOTED
Nikko Number Two After the success of its Ekkamai outlet, Nikko Cafe has opened a second branch (G/F, Citadines Hotel Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-2582270). The new spot still puts the precedence on drinks over food, serving up matcha latte (B130) and chocolate frappe (B185), along with desserts like cheesecake (B140) and matcha pudding (B160). As for savory dishes, it’s all about comfort food—try the spaghetti alfredo (B220)—and they also have a breakfast buffet available daily at B200/person.
Robot Approved Thai Delicious, the government-supported project which once vowed to use robots to banish the world of bad and inauthentic Thai food, has rolled out its first model restaurant, Kati (46/7 Piman 49, Sukhumvit Soi 49, 092-626-0011, www.fb.com/KATI. ThaiDelicious). Decorated in light tones with industrial touches
MOODZ Restaurant & Wine Bar
in the form of bricks, wood and ceramics, the restaurant serves food cooked from both high quality and organic ingredients with strictly no MSG. Recommended dishes include gor-lae chicken (Southern Thai-style grilled chicken, B180), pad Thai with shrimp (B280) and aromatic coconut granita with palm seed and caramelized banana (B80), as well as drinks like Thai tea (B85).
Boat Load Guay Teaw Ruer Nai Ngork (G/F, W District, Sukhumvit Rd., BTS Phra Khanong), the renowned boat noodle shop with branches in faraway Ramkhamhaeng and Chaeng Wattana, has arrived on Sukhumvit. All the favorites are here; their signature is of course the hot and spicy guay teaw ruer (soup noodles, B20/40). Also, don’t miss their crispy fried chicken wings (B60). Cool down with roselle and chrysanthemum juice (both B15).
Designed by Bensley Design Studio’s Brian Kent Sherman, Moodz 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; highlights include the tuna tartar with crispy shallots and horseradish dressing (B300), and the spicy seafood, tomato and saffron soup topped with bottarga croutons (B350). For dessert, try the caramelized apple tart served with vanilla ice cream and chantilly (B250) and panna cotta with fresh berries (B250). Exclusive privileges for Citibank credit cardmembers. Get 30% discount (Mon-Thu) and 20% discount (Fri-Sat) on a la carte menu food only (Today – 28 Feb 2016).
Dharath Hoonchamlong
To redeem your favorite dining vouchers, please visit www.citirewards.com. Simply click “Thailand” and then “Gift voucher”
BK Magazine Friday, May 29, 2015
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bites & blends market + Events
Happy Hours
Panorama’s Spanish Week Crowne Plaza’s panoramic city-view restaurant presents Spanish Week on May 25-31, when a range of Spanish favorites will be added to their buffet line. B1,200 on Sun-Thu; B1,800 (Fri-Sat). 23/F, Crowne Plaza, 952 Rama 4 Rd., 02-632-9000
Bar@494
Bar@494 Two-for-one red, white and sparkling wines, beers, whiskey and selected spirits every day from 5-7pm. From 7-9pm, enjoy free-flow selected red, white and sparkling wines for B599. Groove
Grand Hyatt Erawan, 494 Ratchadamri Rd., 02-254-6250. BTS Ratchadamri
Groove Farmers’ Market Meet the newest foodie market in town on May 30-31.
Men’s Night Out Maya offers three hours of free-flow draught beer at B499 every Thursday.
Groove CentralWorld 999/99 Rama 1 Rd., 02-264-5555
29/F, Holiday Inn Bangkok Sukhumvit, 1 Sukhumvit Soi 22., 02-683-4888. BTS Asok
Deals
Advertise your business with us starting from B5,000
Email sales@asia-city.co.th or call 026249601
Mixo Flava
Argentina Temptations Throughout June, Flava offers Argentinean specialties like milanesa de pollo and empanadas de carne for lunch and dinner. Dishes start from just B150.
Wine Down Friday Every Fri from 7-9pm, Mixo offers free-flow wine and tapas for B600. Sofitel So Bangkok, 2 Sathorn Rd., 02-6240000. MRT Lumphini
2/F, Dream Hotel, 10 Sukhumvit Soi 15, 02-254-8500
Decanter
Barsu
Build Your Own Burger Barsu lets you personalize your 200g wagyu beef or chicken burger starting from B440 with a free drink. 250 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-649-8358. BTS Asok
Wine Buffet Every day from 7-10pm, Decanter serves free-flow selected wines for B1,200 including appetizer sampling plate for two on Wed-Sun and cold cuts and cheese buffet on Thu-Sat. St. Regis, 159 Ratchadamri Rd., 02-2077777. BTS Ratchadamri
Missed the guide? Visit BKmagazine.com/TopTables2015
New Venues Casa Azul A new Mexican restaurant in Ari. 2/23 Phahonyothin Soi 7 (Ari), 02-6195107
Hashme A new rooftop restaurant and bar in Thonglor. L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon
9:53 Community Mall, Thonglor Soi 9, 02-662-4238
Dessert, Cheese and Wine At L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon, choose a dessert or cheese with a glass of wine at B1,000 from 8:30pm daily. 5/F, Mahanakhon Cube, Narathiwas Rd., BTS Chong Nonsi
THE EASIEST WAY TO BOOK YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS 24
Find out more at www.chope.co/toptables
BK Magazine Friday, May 29, 2015
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bites FOOD REVIEWS
BBQ Delight HHHH Pakistani. Mahaset Rd., 02-631-7526. No alcohol. B
The sois of Upper Silom are filled with Indian and Pakistani restaurants of varying repute. BBQ Delight is one of the more interesting establishments. Situated across the road from a Vietnamese restaurant named Delight Kitchen, this otherwise nondescript shop-house beckons you in with its heavily-manned, open-air grill out front. Inside has seen better days, especially the well-pawed menus, but there’s plenty of charm—if you can avert your gaze from the TV which, on our last visit, flitted between Bollywood-inspired mobile phone ads and Imran Khan speeches. This halal restaurant, also known as Haider Bhai, has been around in some form or another since the early 2000s and specializes in Pakistani barbecue and curry dishes. The gregarious owner is forthcoming with his recommendations from the menu, which is handy since we’ve found they often run
Nostro HHHH International. 5/F, Siam Square One, 02-115-1430. BTS Siam. Corkage charge B300. B-BB
Nostro is the brainchild of celebrity chef Naan Hongsewiwat of Sangdad Publishing, making it one of the few restaurants in Siam Square One that’s driven by a chef and not a chain. But instead of standing out next to its boring neighbors, this graycolored space falls into all the usual mall restaurant cliches by serving mediocre fusion food from a vast menu designed to please the area’s student clientele. Despite the tagline “Italian Rebel Bistro,” there’s not much that’s either Italian or rebellious about Nostro’s list of European-inspired dishes adapted for the Thai palate. For example, the pla goong fusion (spicy grilled prawn salad with rocket, shallots, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves and ebiko
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.
out of certain dishes (last time there was no beef seekh kebab, B220, or desserts). Minor quibbles aside, this is some darn good grilled meat. If you can get beyond the mutant coloring, the green tikka boti (B160) is juicy and beautifully charred, no doubt the work of barbecue experts. The mughlai mutton chops (B200), too, are well marinated, packing a surprising creamy flavor. The curries and sides tend to be less exciting (veggie options like the dal chana, B60, can be quite oily, the off-color side salad not particularly appetizing). The mutton masala (B150) is a big exception, though. While the meat’s a bit ropey, the tomato-based sauce is full of spicy depth and has us all but licking the bowl. Elsewhere there are textures unfamiliar to casual Indian diners, as in the beef nihari (B100), which comes in a viscous, gravylike sauce that’s rather too buttery, though the slow-cooked beef is remarkably tender. The curries do go pretty light on the protein, but at these prices we’re not really complaining. Special mention must go to the naan, prepared in a hole-in-the-wall tandoor out front, which is pillow-soft and really some of the best we’ve tried in town. Our pick is the garlic butter option (B80). The sweet lassi (B40) and masala tea (B20) also hit the spot—and, again, those prices! If you’re after no-fuss meat grilled over an open flame, BBQ Delight is the spot. To snag a table, get there before 9pm, when the place really starts to fill out with South Asian families.
roe in a Thai pla-style salad, B180) features a prawn that has clearly been boiled not grilled, though the sauce is tangy and the vegetables fresh. Also avoid the over-salty yanagi mushrooms and shrimp roe spaghetti (B190) in favor of the much-safer spicy bacon spaghetti (B190), which is well seasoned and has a strong aromatic flavor from plenty of fresh basil. Nor does the chef’s classical French Le Cordon Bleu training really shine through in the duck confit in orange sauce (B350). The skin isn’t particularly crispy, and while the meat inside is tender, flavorsome and falls from the bone, the pale, syrupy sauce spoils everything. The chicken liver pate (B135) is equally uninspiring: both the buttered baguette and the pate taste massproduced. It’s not the only processed food on Nostro’s menu. The deep-fried crab sticks and prawn meat patties with “special” sauce (B180) are an amalgamation of reconstituted proteins in a tomato-based sauce. Desserts like raspberry panna cotta (B110) and chocolate fondant (B180) are the sort of compulsory menu items that can be found at half the cafes in town, so instead we opted for the popcorn-and-candied-almond-topped salted caramel ice cream (B140)—very saccharine. If you like this kind of fusion stuff, just stick to Greyhound.
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
The freshest dining news www.bkmagazine.com/newsletters BK Magazine Friday, May 29, 2015
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now FRI Thai Hero WED Curtain Falls
Running for three days only at Thailand Cultural Center this May 29-31, Dragon’s Heart is a must-see musical that depicts the inspirational real-life story of Dr. Puey Ungpakorn, from his childhood as part of a Chinese immigrant family, through his days in the Free Thai Movement during World War II in 1941, to his role as the Governor of the Central Bank and his post as the dean and rector of Thammasat University. His reputation for social responsibility and moral incorruptibility has made him a much-revered figure in Thai history. Appropriate timing as we're in the selection process of the Bank of Thailand's next Governor. B1,000-3,000 tickets, available through Thaiticketmajor.
We’re sad to hear that this year will be the last of La Fete, the annual French Thai Cultural Festival. Set to take place on Jun 3-20, the final edition promises more Franco-Thai collaborations than any of the previous years, spread across art exhibitions, dance performances, parties and other celebrations. For a full list of what to expect, see page 30.
FRI What The Festival?
SAT Cat Call
WED Dog Whisperer
This weekend, fans of local indie bands will want to head to Cat T-Shirt, the annual two-day T-shirt fest organized by Cat Radio. It’s taking over Makkasan Airport Link Station this May 30-31, with some of Bangkok’s favorite acts like Superbaker, Slur, Yellow Fang, Greasy Cafe, Polycat, Paradox and 25 Hours playing from midday till late. You’ve also got over 200 stores selling thousands of funky patterned T-shirts to go with the theme. B300 tickets for a two-day pass, available through Thaiticketmajor.
The Thonglor art-bar pioneer WTF Bar & Gallery celebrates its five-year anniversary with a two-day party this week, from May 29-30. And they’ve got plenty in store, from artsy things like Wonderful Thai Friendship by Bangkok’s well-known non-craftsmen (including BK’s own editor), free-flow booze and awesome preppy music by Trasher on the first night, to the screening of short films to go with a block party on WTF Alley on the second night. There’ll also be awesome delectables provided by big names like Soul Food Mahanakorn, Rocket Coffeebar, Nahm and Appia.
One for the dog lovers. This Jun 3 the international dog-behavior expert Cesar Millan shares his techniques with the Bangkok audience at Royal Paragon Hall as part of his Love Your Dogs Tour 2015. The Mexican-American self-taught dog trainer will also hold live demonstrations during his educational and entertaining live show. Tickets are B2,000, still available on Thaiticketmajor.
DIAGEO REVEALS THAILAND’S FOUR WINNERS OF WORLD CLASS 2015 On Apr 27, Bangkok Marriott’s Ball Room was transformed into a battleground for 16 top mixologists competing to become Thailand’s best cocktail maker. In order to make it to the final round of World Class 2015, they beat off competition from over 100 bartenders from across the country during four months of stiff competition. The judging panel consisted of four top cocktail specialists drawn from around the world: Chanond Purananda, owner of the renowned bar at Smith; Ueno Hidetsugu, owner of High Five Bar in Japan; Colin Chia, Commercial Manager of Diageo Reserve; and Lam Chi Mun, Diageo Bar Academy Director of Asia Pacific.
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ADVERTORIAL
After a spectacular day of competition, four winners were chosen whose gifts for cocktail-making outshone the rest: Sarawut Pinpech from Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, Pailin Sajanit from Vesper Cocktail Bar & Restaurant, Natakorn Changrew from Perfume and Pongpak Sudthipongse from Why97. Now that they have been crowned Thailand’s Best Bartenders, the four will once again compete in the World Class 2015 Southeast Asia Final, doing battle with contestants from seven other countries around the region. This year, the Southeast Asia Final is set to take place on Jul 1-2 at the EmQuartier, Bangkok, before the winner joins the Diageo World Finals, to be held in Cape Town, South Africa, later this year.
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now HIGHLIGHT
Phatfunk Drum & Bass
La Fete 2015
The D'n'B party returns to its original venue this month with the usual lineup of resident DJs Azek, DeLorean, Instinct and Orawan. Jun 5, 9pm. Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-261-3007, 02-261-4446. B350 one free drink. MRT Sukhumvit.
For the 11th year, La Fete will roll out a whole month dedicated to cultural events. Held from Jun 3-20, this year’s festival will sadly be the final one, though the organizers are promising to return in some guise. Here’s a preview of what to look forward to. liberty, equality and fraternity, as symbolized by the French flag. Jun 19, 8pm. Sodsai Pantoomkomal Centre of Dramatic Arts, 6/F, Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Building, Faculty of Arts, Chulalongkorn University. B250-B150 (under 25) at www.thaiticketmajor.com
CONCERT ROYAL FESTIVITIES AT THE FRENCH COURT
To celebrate the 500th anniversary of King Francis I’s coronation, Doulce Memoire will take us back to those joyful Renaissance days through music. Expect acrobatics, singing, dancing and flamboyant dresses—this is how the French court throws a party. Jun 3, 7pm. Doors closing at 6:30pm. Main Auditorium of Chulalongkorn University. BTS Siam, MRT Samyan. www.thaiticketmajor.com
HIP-HOP BATTLE
Jay Hardway @ Levels Jay Hardway
DJS Dark Quay!
Dancers from all around the country and overseas compete to win the first prize of B18,000. The semi-finals will be around 8pm along with a dance party, “Go Grrrls’ Riot Grrrl House” by DJ Dookie and DJ Maehappyair, from 8:30pm till late.
Performances by DJs Wen, Tul, Pichy and special guest Preawa from Yellow Fang in a party organized by Pistonhead and the Quay Records crew. One free Pistonhead Lager for the first 200 guests. May 29, 10pm. Dark Bar, 2/F, Ekamai Mall, Ekkamai Soi 10, 02-381-9896, 090 528 4646. B100.
Jun 20 from 2pm onward. Live House Studio Bangkok, JJ Green Market. BTS Mo Chit exit 1 or MRT Kamphaeng Phet. More on www. lafete-bangkok.com
Dancing Time with Soundway: DJ Miles Cleret Expect upbeat tropical dance music from Latin America, Africa and the Caribbean, plus reggae and modern Afrobeat re-
mixes from the guy behind the London's much-heralded Soundway Records. Support by Zudrangma's DJ Maft Sai. May 29, 9pm. Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. B400 one free drink. BTS Thong Lo.
Nakadia @ Grease The Samui-born DJ stops by Case 49 for a night of house and techno. She previously opened for Sven Vath at Kolour in the Park earlier this year. May 29, 10pm. Grease, Opposite Villa Supermarket, 46/12-13 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-6626120-1. Free.
A party by Epic Entertainment, featuring the DJ who collaborated with Martin Garrix on "Wizard." Tickets are available now at www.EpicBangkok.com. Doors open at 9pm. Jun 11, 9pm. Levels, 6/F, Aloft Hotel, 35 Sukhumvit Soi 11, 082-3083246. B500 one free drink. BTS Nana.
Wankelmut [Get Physical] As part of the This is House series, this Elektro Delikatessen party features 2012's Groove Electronic Music Magazine "Newcomer of the Year," with support by DJs Richie, Ikono, Eddy Frampton and Alex Imix. The DJ remixed the Youtube hit "Reckoning Song/One Day." Buy-oneget-one-free deal on standard drinks till 11pm. Jun 11, 9pm. Ku Bar (Ku De Ta), 39/F, Sathorn Square, 98 Sathorn, 02-108-2000. B500 one free drink. BTS Chong Nonsi.
Our Last Night Live in Bangkok The American post-hardcore band makes a stop in Bangkok after finishing its tour in Europe. Only 300 tickets for the show, available at Indy Pop Concerts (085-0604120), HOF The Mall Bangkapi (02-7341810) and Gram Siam Paragon (02-6107995). May 31, 8pm. The Rock Pub, Hollywood Street, 93/26-28 Phaya Thai Rd., 02-251-9980, 086-977-0621. B900. BTS Ratchathewi.
PHOTOGRAPHY/DESIGN
ART
DANS LA JUNGLE DES ANGES
ENTR’ECOLES - REGARDS CROISES
T h ro u g h a n exc h a n g e p ro g ra m between Silpakorn University and Paris’ Beaux Arts, Kanjana Chonsiri and Alexandre Poisson, two selected students from each institution, collaborate to create contemporary artworks that reflect their three-month residencies in each country, their experiences of living overseas and their perspectives on others’ ways of living. Jun 5-21. Bridge Cafe and Art Space, Charoenkrung Rd. BTS Saphan Thaksin. Free admission
In an attempt to touch on the doubts of those living in urban spaces, mixed-media artist Rush Pleansuk and photographer Phillipe Moisan collaborate to produce a visual narrative filled with “joyful melancholy.” Jun 18-Jul 19. Alliance Francaise Bangkok. MRT Lumphini
PHOTOGRAPHY DETOUR OF THE EGO
Lek Kiatsirikajorn conveys his experience of living in Paris in a dorm surrounded by artistic types from all over the world for three months through an abstract photography installation. The opening is on Jun 12, 7pm, with an artist talk on Jun 27, 3pm. Runs through Jul 4. Bangkok University Gallery (4F). BTS Ekkamai. B250, B150 (under 25 years) at www.thaiticketmajor.com
Our Last Night
CONCERTS & FESTIVALS Supersub, Pla Nin Tem Baan, Moving and Cut, Dwell A Black Sugar concert at the Ekkamai bar, featuring performances by four indie groups. May 29, 8pm. Moose Bangkok, 24 Ekkamai Soi 21, 02-108-9550. B250 (one free beer).
Keep Your Eyes On x Pistonhead Present Keep Your Light On The event features performances by DJs Anat, Vaan&Nvty, Bassyouth and Breaker Bish, plus an exhibition of lighting and mapping installations for the underground beat scene. May 30, 7pm. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833. B100 (one Pistonhead) beer. BTS Surasak.
TVXQ! Special Live Tour - T1St0ry One of the biggest K-pop groups of the early 2000s, dubbed the Rising Gods of the East, returns to Bangkok after
DANCE LES PECHEURS DE PERLES
Famous for choosing uncanny places to set his shows, the daring choreographer Jitti Chompee this time takes the extra step of transforming the entire Rose Hotel into his installation. The dance show is based on his interpretation of Georges Bizet’s The Pearl Fishers (Les Pecheurs de Perles). Featuring his own self-produced minimalist piano music. Jun 15 and 16, 8pm. Rose Hotel Bangkok. BTS Sala Daeng or MRT Samyan. B250 or B150 (under 25) at www.thaiticketmajor.com
STANDARDS
French choreographer Pierre Rigal presents a production that sees eight hiphop dancers question the meaning of
100 Years Kru Kaew Concert A tribute concert for the Thai legendary stage producer, script-writer and composer, featuring 24 of the most iconic songs that he produced performed by the Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra. May 30-31, 4pm. Prince Mahidol Hall, Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd. B1,000-3,000 from Thaiticketmajor.
100 Plus presents Bodyslam 13 After canceling the last concert, the Thai pop-rock band is back with a concert that takes the audience through 13 years of hits. Doors open at 3pm. May 31, 6pm. Lakeside Muang Thong Thani, Muang Thong Thani, Popular Rd. B1,200-2,000 from Thaiticketmajor.
Fungjai presents Hedsod 2 Back by popular demand, the second concert organized by online streaming website Fungjai features performances by some of the hottest bands in the local indie music scene like Part Time Musicians, Yellow Fang, Summer Dress, DCNXTR, Srirajah Rockers and Goose. Early bird tickets are B500, available through May 31. Jun 6, 6pm. Voice Space, BBD Building, 197 Viphavadi Rangsit, 02-261-3883. B1,000 from Thaiticketmajor.
Road to Ultra 2015 This year's pre-Ultra Music Festival for Bangkok EDM heads features DJs Alesso, Knife Party, Adventure Club, Galantis, Laidback Luke and Quintino. Tickets are still available at www.amiando.com/ultra2015. Jun 12, 5pm. BITEC, 88 Bang Na-Trat Rd., 02-749-3939. B2,800. BTS Bang Na.
CLASSICAL
PERFORMANCE NOTTE
Compagnie 14:20 presents a new kind of magic show under the theme “A journey where time retires within itself.” The show will combine dance, juggling, music and video effects. Sodsai Pantoomkomal Centre of Dramatic Arts, 6/F, Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Building, Faculty of Arts, Chulalongkorn University. B250, B150 (under 25) at www.thaiticketmajor.com
Get all the latest events and restaurant openings from BK Magazine in real time with BK Now 28
six years complete with new members U-Know and Max. May 30, 5pm. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4455. B1,800-6,000 from Thaiticketmajor.
FIVE PIANO 20 HAND CONCERTS
60TH YEAR, HER ROYAL HIGHNESS
AMERICAN MUSIC NIGHT
A series of free concerts by 10 young pianists, who'll be performing five piano selections on five grand pianos at the same time. Expect to hear pieces by HM The King, Mendelssohn, Chopin and Brahms. Jun4-6 concerts to be performed at Swissotel Le Concorde Bangkok.
The Bangkok Symphony Orchestra holds a classical concert in celebration of HRH Princess Maha Chakri's birthday, featuring orchestra-arranged versions of songs composed by the Princess, plus other Thai-classical hits.
The Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra and pianist Gerald Robbins take the audience through the diverse sounds of the American musical landscape in a program of Aaron Copland, George Gershwin, John Adams and Julia Lake Bozone. The show will be conducted by Russell Guyver. Pre-concert talk 45 minutes before the show starts. B100 for students.
Jun 3, 5, 7pm; Jun 4, 7:30pm; Jun 6, 1pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456. Free. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.
Jun 4, 8pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456. B300500 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.
Jun 5, 7pm; Jun 6, 4pm. Prince Mahidol Hall, Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd. B300500 from Thaiticketmajor.
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TAKE NOTE
BE GOOD Have Fun with a Social Twist
ROCK DJ
To continue the ’90s revival in Bangkok, British singer and twice member of the pop boy band Take That Robbie Williams is confirmed to entertain the Bangkok fans this Sep 30 at Impact Arena as part of his Let Me Entertain You Tour 2015. With so many hit singles across the decades like "Angels," "Freedom," "She’s the One," "Better Man," "Somethin’ Stupid," and, more recently, 2012’s "Candy," there are plenty of reasons for you to log onto Thaiticketmajor and secure your spot when tickets go on sale this May 30. Impact Arena, Popular Rd.
BACK IN THE CIRCUIT
Still getting the post-GCircuit blues? This Aug 7-8 sees the launch of a two-day-twonight Circuit/EDM music festival at GMM Live House, especially for the LGBTQ party animals. While it’s not quite GCircuit, Glow in The Dark BKK will feature regular gay party DJ Preeda Tony, and headliner Mexican DJ Oscar Velaquez, lesbian DJ Twisted Dee and more, plus special live shows and lots of sexy male bods on stage flown in from around Asia. Phase 1 early Bird VIP combo tickets for two nights (with fast track entry, VIP bar, rest zone and toilets) are B3,600, while early-bird regular combo tickets are B3,040, available from now through May 31 at glowinthedarkth.bentoweb.com.
Whether it’s lounging on the beaches of Samui and Phuket or taking a zen yoga session, if you haven’t got your next holiday planned, here's an alternative way to have fun with a social twist. Thai social enterprise Social Giver officially launched its website earlier this month. Previously invite-only, www.SocialGiver.com works as a platform to turn the money you spend on hotels, dining and spas into donations for charity. And they do this by utilizing the spare capacity of leisure businesses—that’s empty hotel rooms and un-booked restaurant tables—to offer you the best rates, while also ensuring profits go to those who need it. Every baht you spend gets converted into "Socialcoins," all of which can be put towards the projects that you care about most. Current staff picks include: solving mysteries at The Escape Hunt Experience (bangkok.escapehunt.com), a two-night stay at The Naka Island A Luxury Collection Phuket, a muay Thai session at RSM Muay Thai Academy, and a day pass to Yunomori Onsen, the first authentic Japanese onsen in Thailand. Make your next travel experience even more meaningful.
ART Opening
CentralWorld, Ratchaprasong Rd. BTS Chit Lom
GO GREEN
K-Village and BKK Farmers’ Market aren’t the only players in the game anymore. This week sees the launch of another Farmers’ Market. Groove CentralWorld Farmer’s Market kicks off this May 30-31 at 11am-8pm, promising around 80 shops from the regulars like Pain Maison, Vivin, Black Pig and Passion Delivery, which makes a nice alternative to the expensive restaurants and commercial stores around Siam Square. But if that’s not your thing, you can check out what else is coming up for the rest of the month, page 34.
BACK TO THE FUTURE
Fans of last year’s Kolour in the Park with Sven Vath will be happy to know that the Kolour crew are launching a new party concept this Jun 20. So far, we hear that Sunn - A Futuristic Paradise is meant to capture the idea of a perfect night out in a brand new event space (yet to be confirmed), and we’re expecting solid performances by the resident DJs. Stay up to date with the latest news through on.fb.me/1LkbSDs.
ELEPHANT AND HORSES
SONG WITHOUT WORD
T-XHIBITION
Thai artist Somboon Hormtientong's new series of paintings featuring minimalist elephant figurines, inspired by his solo motorbike trips through Northern Thailand. Known as one of the country's abstract pioneers, Somboon's work combines Western-style free-form brush strokes with unique Asian calligraphy touches. Dates: Opens Jun 3, 6pm. Through Jul 26
A series of abstract artworks by artists from Chulalongkorn University's Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Jirapat Pitpreecha, Kritsana Chaikitwattana and Adivit Ansathammarat. Dates: Opens Jun 4, 6pm. Through Jun 30
The Charoenkrung art space opens a new group exhibition which celebrates the use of T-shirts as an art canvas for self-expression. Artists include: Lee Anantawat, Saran Yen Panya, Veronica Guarino, Nuttapong Daovicitr and many more. The perfect opportunity to explore what's new around the area, like 23 Bar and Gallery and Saddle and Bun. Dates: Opens May 29, 6:30pm
Artery Post-Modern Gallery, Room B09, B1/F, Silom Galleria Building, 919/1 Silom Soi 19.
Cho Why, 17 Soi Nana, Charoen Krung Rd.
G1 Contemporary, 999 Phloen Chit Rd.
WHY NOT The recent road bike accidents in Bangkok and the subsequent heated debates on the reintroduction of bicycle licenses shouldn’t discourage you from having a pedal. But cyclists don’t have to restrict themselves to the likes of Suan Rod Fai, Suvarnnabhumi Airport or the new Peppermint Bike Park (see page 12). You also have the option of exploring other provinces with cycling trip organizer Octo-Cycling. These guys have been holding monthly cycling trips around Thailand for the past four years, from small-town Chantaburi to Krabi Island, taking under 20 participants per trip to ensure the safety of cyclists. Their next one to Lampang/Sukhothai is scheduled for the Asanha Bucha/Khao Pansa weekend on July 30, and they’ll also start introducing even more exciting trips around Asia over the course of the year. See their page for more details. 596/5 Ladkrabang Soi 28, 02-181-2088. www.fb.com/octocycling
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MARKETS & FAIRS
A play inspired by the Chinese folk tale from Hangzhou, "The Legend of the White Snake," to be performed by Sun Tawalwongsri and Wannasak Sirilar. Shows run from Thu-Mon. B300 tickets for students. Reservations information at 08-018-5966. Jun 11-28, 8pm. Sun Dance Theatre, 5/F, Silom Society, 12/3 Silom Rd., 088-018-5966. B500. BTS Sala Daeng. Girl X Somart Social Market
The Magic of the Musicals
This Week SOMART SOCIAL MARKET: THE CHILL DENY PARK
Dates: Through May 29 Venue: CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd. BTS Chit Lom What: A solid fashion market full of online stores, repackaged under a chill park concept. DAYDREAM GARDEN
Dates: May 30-31 Venue: CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., BTS Chit Lom What: A shopping session in an artifi-
STAGE PERFORMANCES
cial garden atmosphere with live jazz in the background, and around 200 fashion stalls. BIKE PARTY SALE 8TH EDITION
Date: May 30-Jun 1 Venue: 3/F, Paradise Park, 61 Srinakarin Rd. What: A three-day cyclists’ market, with over 80 booths selling bicycle kits, accessories and clothing, both new and secondhand. Free and secure parking spaces for bikes on the G/F.
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 final show this season is Phantom of the Opera. Make reservations at 02-2077777 or email fb.bangkok@stregis.com. May 29, 8pm. The St. Regis Bangkok, 159 Ratchadamri Rd., 02-207-7777. B1,850. BTS Ratchadamri.
The Death of Miss America A comedy about a fictional Miss Tomorrow Pageant that addresses stereotypes of Asian women and the importance of the ASEAN community. Play is in English. Shows run every Thu-Sun. Tickets available at bit. ly/1HMhpCD. Pre-show cocktails at 7pm.
Through Jun 7, 8pm. Culture Collective Studio, 3/F, Chatrium Residence Riverside Bangkok, 26/276 Charoen Krung Soi 70, 099-447-4670. B800.
Girl X, Japan-Thailand Co-production Version A reconstructed contemporary dance performance by Japanese director Suguru Yamamoto and Thai director Thanapol Virulhakul. Inspired by and develoepd from the original show that premiered back in 2013 that featured live performance, images and text that reflect the atmosphere of Japanese society after the Great Earthquake of Eastern Japan in 2011. To be performed by Teerawat Mulvilai and Peerapol Kijreunpiromsuk. B250 tickets available through May 31 (bank transfer), B300 thereafter. More information on bank transfer at 081-441-5718. Jun 9-20, 8pm. Democrazy Theater Studio, Rama 4 Rd., 089-126-7112. MRT Lumphini. B350.
Our Land Previously adapted into film and drama, this musical stars Sarunyu "Tua" Wongkrachang and Mai Charoenpura with a 10-round performance telling the dramatic lives of three sisters of the Jirawes family. Jun 12-29, 7:30pm. Muang Thai Rachadalai Theatre, 4/F, The Esplanade, 99 Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456. B1,000-3,500 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.
Fly with me, Free breakfast! Director Damkerng Thitapiyasak adapts into Thai the French comedy Boeing Boeing, telling the story of Bodin, an international trader who manages his romantic relationships with three flight attendants working for different national airlines. Tickets available at showbooking.com/flywithme. Play runs from Thu-Tue. Through Jun 18, 7:30pm. Thong Lor Art Space, 58/14-15 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). B590.
LAST CHANCE Visual Project @ TCDC This May 31 is your last chance to catch the screening of documentary film In 30 Films by Eames Demetrios at the Creative Space (2-9pm) and Living Wallpaper (10:30am-9pm) in front of TCDC Resource Center. Produced by their grandson, the documentary explores Charles and Ray Eames' vision and working process behind their hugely successful design products. The main exhibition, Essential Eames: Icons of 20th Century Design, will remain on display through Jun 28.
Made by Legacy
Coming Up
Thailand Creative and Design Center (TCDC), 6/F, The Emporium, 662 Sukhumvit Soi 24, 02-664-8448. Free. BTS Phrom Phong
Brace yourself: we’ll see the return of some of the biggest markets and fairs in the coming months. ZAAP ON SALE #4: SPACE OF YOUR DESIGN
Date: Jun 6-7 Venue: Royal Paragon Hall, Siam Paragon. BTS Siam What: A chance to shop indoors at over 400 stalls from Bangkok’s hottest fashion brands and local social media businesses. Food and beverages also available. ARTBOX BKK: FIRST IMPRESSION
Date: Jun 12-15 (Ep. 1), Jun 19-21 (Ep. 2) Venue: Airport Link Makkasan Station What: Unlike the so-called Container Market at the Bloc, here all the booths are actually organized inside real shipping containers. It also aims to attract hipsters with a “vintage style” theme with 300 stalls in the fashion zone and over 100 stalls in the food and cafe zone.
MADE BY LEGACY VI
Date: July 11-12 Venue: 6/F, Central Embassy, 1031 Phloen Chit Rd. BTS Phloen Chit What: The hit Brooklyn-style vintage flea market returns, this time taking place in a luxury mall. Still expect the same rustic vibe, though in a 4,000-square-meter space that's yet to be glammed up. B120 for entry.
RACES Run BKK Sign up early for these marathons before places get filled up.
FAIR: VISIT JAPAN FIT TRAVEL FAIR #7 SUMMER 2015
Date: Jun 25-28 Venue: Central Rama 9, MRT Rama 9 What: The fair attracted a massive crowd at the end of last year at Siam Paragon, with travel information, deals for flights, hotels and rail passes, plus travel consultation for those that want to explore Japan on their own. Organized by Japan National Tourism Organization.
NIGHT BIKE MARKET
FAIR: 35TH THAI TEAW THAI FAIR
Date: Jun 12-14 Venue: Tha Maharaj, Maharaj Rd., 098-247-9444. What: Booths selling bicycle parts and accessories in an outdoor, riverside atmosphere plus a special “Night Ride Trip” around Rattanakosin Island. Expect a similar vibe to the arts and crafts market held earlier this year.
Date: Jul 2-5 Venue: BITEC, 88 Bangna-Trat Rd. BTS Bangna What: The popular domestic tourism fair is back with travel deals, spa packages and experience activities from all over the country. We suggest you check out the exhibitors’ list in advance at www.thaiteawthaiplaza.com to snag the best rates for your rainy season/ winter holiday plans.
Run For a Reason
Sign Up Now STANDARD CHARTERED BANGKOK MARATHON: RUN FOR A REASON
Date: Nov 15, 2am Venue: Grand Palace, Na Phra Lan Rd. Distance: Micro Marathon (1.5-4.5km, B250), Mini Marathon (10km, B400), Half Marathon (21km, B500), Marathon (42.195km, B800). Registration: Open now at www.bkkmarathon.com. Payment transfer is required before signing up for your chosen distance. Expats can pay the local rate with evidence of a work permit on the day. More information at admin@ bkkmarathon.com.
Save The Date EMPIRE WE RUN 2015
Dates: Oct 11 Venue: Empire Tower, Sathorn Rd. BTS Chong Nonsi. Distance: TBA. Registration: Coming soon. For the latest updates, go to www.fb.com/werunthefuture.
Start Training SUPER SPORTS 10 MILES INTERNATIONAL RUN 2015
Dates: Jun 14, 5am Venue: CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., BTS Chit Lom
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Empire We Run
Distance: 10 miles (B350, 5,000 runners), 5 miles (B300, 3,000 runners) and 2 miles (B250, 2,000 runners). Registration: Online at supersports.co.th/10MilesRun2015. html or at Super Sports Stores & New Balance Shop. BANGKOK LIFE ASSURANCE HALF MARATHON
Dates: Jun 14, 5:15am Venue: Suan Luang Rama VIII Public Park, Arun Amarin Rd. Distance: Half marathon 21.1km (1,000 runners), mini marathon 10.5km (2,000 runners) and fun-run 5km (1,000 runners). Five runners with the best fancy dress under the theme "Happier Life" also get B2,000 prize money. Registration: www.tfaforms.com/373755. B300-600. THE RAINBOW RUN. BE DIFFERENT. BE KIND
Dates: Jun 14, 6pm Venue: Lumphini Park, Rama 4 Rd. MRT Silom Distance: 2.5km, 5km, 7.5km and 10km. Organized by The Rainbow Room Foundation and Punky Runners in order to spread positive awareness for those with special needs in Thailand. Registration: J Avenue Thonglor, The Rainbow Room Foundation, Masterpiece by Siam Wood CentralWorld/Central Bangna, Gymboree Rama 3, Aussino Gallery or at the registration desk on the day. B300.
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now FILM Opening
FREEWILL ASTROLOGY GEMINI (May 21-Jun 20): You have successfully made the transition from brooding caterpillar to social butterfly. Soon you will be in your full, fluttery glory, never lingering too long with one thought, one friend, or one identity. Some heavyduty, level-headed stalwarts might wish you would be more earthy and anchored, but I don’t share their concern. At least for now, having a long attention span is overrated. You have entered the fidgety, inquisitive part of your cycle, when flitting and flirting make perfect sense.
Kruato (Thai)
Yes or No 2.5 (Thai)
Drama/Biography. The story of Phra Buddhacharn Toh Phomarangsi, one of the most famous Buddhist monks during Thailand’s Rattanakosin period. May 28
Romance. When Pee (Nun Sunnata) tries to match her best friend Wine (Tina Supanart) with a girl who is friends with Wine’s ex-girlfriend, a four-way love triangle ensues. May 28
San Andreas (USA)
Somewhere Only We Know (China)
Adventure. When a massive earthquake strikes California, a Los Angeles Fire Department rescue-helicopter pilot (Dwayne Johnson) goes on a journey to rescue his estranged daughter (Alexandra Daddario) with his ex-wife. May 28
Drama/Romance. After her mother dies and her fiancee runs away, Jin (Wu Yifan) travels to Prague where she discovers a secret family history. May 28
The Voices (USA) Comedy. After being stood up for a date, bathtub factory worker Jerry (Ryan Reynolds) gets talked into committing murder by his evil pet cat. Also stars Gemma Arterton and Anna Kendrick. May 28
Now Showing Miss Happy (Thai) HHHHH
A Little Chaos (UK) HHHHH
Comedy. The life of a happy young woman (Pancake Khemanit) is turned upside down when she is diagnosed with a rare heart disease that requires her to dance every day to stay alive. Also stars Ben Chalatit.
Romance. In this 17th-century period piece, two landscape gardeners, Sabine (Kate Winslet) and Andre (Matthias Schoenaerts), fall in love while building a grand garden at King Louis XIV’s court at Versailles.
Tomorrowland (USA) HHHHH
Lost River (USA) HHHHH
Adventure. This highly anticipated Disney adventure from Brad Bird (The Incredibles) tells the story of a rebellious teenage girl (Britt Robertson) who discovers an outrageous new world and embarks on a mission with a former boy-genius (George Clooney) to save Tomorrowland.
Drama. Ryan Gosling’s directorial debut follows one mother’s (Christina Hendricks) struggle to protect her kids after they discover an underwater town. Also stars Saoirse Ronan and Eva Mendes.
Unfriended (USA) HHHHH Horror. A supernatural force takes over social media to attack a group of teenagers in a chat room in revenge for a video clip which caused a girl to kill herself.
Mad Max: Fury Road (USA) HHHHH Action. In a post-apocalyptic world run by a savage warlord, Max (Tom Hardy) teams up with the mysterious Furiousa (Charlize Theron) and her band of travelers in an effort to survive.
Pitch Perfect 2 (USA) HHHHH Comedy/Musical. The Barden Bellas are back, this time to enter an international a cappella competition which no American team has ever won. Stars Anna Kendrick and Elizabeth Banks.
Free Screenings Jam
Japan Foundation
Every Wednesday night is Cult Movie Night. Screenings start from 8pm, visit www.fb.com/ JAMCAFEBKK for schedule. 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 089-889-8059. BTS Surasak. Open Tue-Sun 6pm-midnight.
Movies are subtitled in Thai and screened at 6:30pm. Theme for June is Tora-san. June 6. Tora-san Forbidden Love (1984): A3 comedy set in the age of Japan’s rising economy 1980 about the hard-working itinerant Tora-san who is looking for a man to replace the missing section chief while having an affair with his boss’s wife. 10/F, Sermmit Tower, 159 Soi Asoke, 02-260-8560. www.jfbkk.or.th
The Friese-Greene Club The schedule follows a daily theme. Films start from 8pm, visit www.fgc.in.th for the full lineup and to reserve your seat. 259/6 Sukhumvit Soi 22, 087-000-0795. Open WedSun 6pm-late.
CANCER (Jun 21-Jul 22): Only one fear is worthy of you. Only one fear is real enough and important enough to awaken the numb part of your intelligence. So for now, I suggest that you retire all lesser fears. Stuff them in a garbage bag and hide them in a closet. Then put on your brave champion face, gather the allies and resources you need, and go forth into glorious battle. Wrestle with your one fear. Reason with it. If necessary, use guile and trickery to gain an advantage. And this is crucial: Use your fear to awaken and activate the numb part of your intelligence. LEO (Jul 23-Aug 22): In the coming nights, try to see your shadow as it’s cast on the ground by the moon. Not by the sun, mind you. Look for the shadow that’s made by the light of the moon. It might sound farfetched, but I suspect this experience will have a potent impact on your subconscious mind. It may jostle loose secrets that you have been hiding from yourself. I bet it will give you access to emotions and intuitions you have been repressing. It could also help you realize that some of the deep, dark stuff you wrestle with is not bad and scary, but rather fertile and fascinating. VIRGO (Aug 23-Sep 22): The ancient Greek statesman Demosthenes was regarded as a supremely skilled orator. His speeches were so powerful that he was compared to a “blazing thunderbolt.” And yet as a youngster he spoke awkwardly. His voice was weak and his enunciation weird. To transform himself, he took drastic measures. He put pebbles in his mouth to force himself to formulate his words with great care. He recited poems as he ran up and down hills. At the beach, he learned to outshout the pounding surf. Take inspiration from him, Virgo. Now would be an excellent time for you to plan and launch strenuous efforts that will enable you to eventually accomplish one of your long-range goals. LIBRA (Sep 23-Oct 22): Long-distance flirtations may soon be just around the corner. Remote possibilities are taking short cuts as they head your way. Is it all a mirage? Some of it may be, but at least a part of it is very real. If you want to be ready to seize the surprising opportunities that show up in your vicinity, I suggest you make yourself as innocent and expansive as possible. Drop any jaded attitudes you may be harboring. Be prepared to receive a flood of beauty, truth, and help. SCORPIO (Oct 23-Nov 21): I suspect that marriages of convenience will begin to wither away unless they evolve into bonds of affection. Connections that have been fed primarily on fun and games must acquire more ballast. In fact, I recommend that you re-evaluate all your contracts and agreements. How are they working for you? Do they still serve the purpose you want them to? As you take inventory, be both tough-minded and compassionate. SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22-Dec 21): Petrarch was an influential 14th-century Italian poet whose main work was Song Book. It’s a collection of 366 poems, most of which are dedicated to Laura, the woman he loved. For 40 years he churned out testaments of longing and appreciation for her, despite the fact that he and she never spent time together. She was married to another man, and was wrapped up in raising her eleven children. Should we judge Petrarch harshly for choosing a muse who was so unavailable? I don’t.
Muse-choosing transcends logic. It’s either time for you to choose a new muse (or two?) or else adjust your bonds with your current muses. CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 19): “The soul moves in circles,” said the ancient Greek philosopher Plotinus. Modern psychologist James Hillmans agreed, and added this thought: “Hence our lives are not moving straight ahead; instead, hovering, wavering, returning, renewing, repeating.” You’re now in an extra-intense phase of winding and rambling. This is a good thing! You are spiraling back to get another look at interesting teachings you didn’t master the first time around. You are building on past efforts that weren’t strong enough. Your words of power are crooked, gyrate, curvy, labyrinthine, and corkscrew. AQUARIUS (Jan 20-Feb 18): It’s no coincidence that your libido and your mojo are booming at the same time. Your libido is in the midst of a deep, hearty awakening, which is generating a surplus of potent, super-fine mojo. And your surplus of potent, super-fine mojo is in turn inciting your libido’s even deeper, heartier awakening. There may be times in the coming week when you feel like you are living with a wild animal. As long as you keep the creature well-fed and well-stroked, it should provide you with lots of vigorous, even boisterous fun. PISCES (Feb 19-Mar 20): “I always arrive late at the office, but I make up for it by leaving early,” quipped 19th-century English author Charles Lamb. I invite you to adopt that breezy, lazy attitude in the coming weeks. It’s high time for you to slip into a very comfortable, laidback mood... to give yourself a lot of slack, explore the mysteries of dreamy indolence, and quiet down the chirpy voices in your head. Even if you can’t literally call in sick to your job and spend a few days wandering free, do everything you can to claim as much low-pressure, unhurried spaciousness as possible. ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 19): Keith Moon played drums for the rock band the Who. He was once voted the second-greatest drummer in history. But his erratic behavior, often provoked by drugs or alcohol, sometimes interfered with his abilities. In 1973, the Who was doing a live concert near San Francisco when the horse tranquilizer that Moon had taken earlier caused him to pass out. The band appealed to the audience for help. “Can anybody play the drums?” asked guitarist Pete Townshend. A 19-year-old amateur drummer named Scot Halpin volunteered. He played well enough to finish the show. I suspect that sometime soon, Aries, you may also get an unexpected opportunity to play the role of a substitute. Be ready! TAURUS (Apr 20-May 20): The weta is a very large insect whose habitat is New Zealand. It looks like a robotic grasshopper, with giant black eyes on a long red face, enlarged hind legs bearing spikes, and floppy, oversized antennae. The native Maori people call it “the god of the ugly things.” Please note that this is a term of respect. The weta’s title is not “the most monstrous of the ugly things,” or “the worst” or “the scariest.” Rather, the Maori say it’s the god—the highest, the most glorious. I suspect that in the coming days, Taurus, you will have a close encounter with your own version of a “god of ugly things.” Doesn’t it deserve your love and welcome?
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marketplace PROPERTY For rent
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last word
Pongsak Payakvichien The co-founder of political newspaper Matichon and now senior executive director of the international news agency Thai Tribune, Pongsak Payakvichien, 72, has been covering Thai politics for five decades. Since founding Matichon in 1978, he’s been credited with creating a platform for quality Thai journalism in a landscape of sensationalist dailies. Today, his newspaper is still one of the most respected in the country for its reporting on politics and controversial issues, including the current Rohingya crisis. Here, he discusses his view on the role of journalists. I was precocious. I’ve always been a confident child. It was because of a quote that I read in my grandfather’s obituary book written by my uncle when I was five years old: “We’re born and we die. When we die we can’t take anything with us.” That made me this way. It seeped into my DNA and I resisted the rules imposed by society. As a child, when I was visiting my aunt’s hotel, it flooded. The adults started a rumor about a crocodile escaping from a farm to prevent children playing anywhere near the water. I went down to the first floor anyway, to get some ice. The current was so strong it dragged me outside. I thought I was going to drown but I grabbed hold of a nearby reed. I spent hours deciding whether I should cry out for help, fearing that my parents would punish me for not obeying their rules.
When they finally found me, my grandmother was crying and I was crying, fearing I would soon be punished. Believe me, there is no comfortable way to learn how to weigh up your options. My life has been a series of cautionary tales, from almost losing my life due to my misplaced fears, to being an impulsive journalist forced to shut his publication down. A huge fire destroyed Phitsanulok in 1957. When I started collecting supplies to help victims, the people around me grew suspicious that I would keep them for myself. I donated everything to a newspaper and asked them to deliver it to those affected. The next morning, I was on the front page: a photo of me as a young boy holding the box of supplies. That’s when I understood the power
of newspapers and journalism as a means of defending one’s self against the public. Everyone knows that a coin has two sides, but we overlook the edge. I believe journalists are the edge that separates heads and tails.
for a newspaper I was running at the time. This was before Matichon. As a result of my reporting, the paper was shut down and I was banned from writing about politics.
When one problem is solved, another emerges.
Journalists are not supposed to interfere with the i ss u e s t h ey cover. It’s about speaking the truth. As soon as you interfere, you’re messing with the outcome.
On October 14, 1973, I supported the Thai students uprising while simultaneously reporting from ground zero
There is no such thing as a problem until we put two human beings together. It’s like a mechanical system. When one problem is solved, another emerges. The cogs are always turning. Interview by Sam Nathapong
Jamboreer SCG Magazine / October-December 2014
Pure Mastery
THE ONE ISSUE 04 OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2014
ดื่มดํ่าสถาปัตย์ ไทยชั้นครู อาจารย์ภิญโญ สุวรรณคีรี
by
เสือ เดคอร์
Flavors of Siam โรงเรียนสอนทำ�อ�ห�ร ใต้ช�ยค�ไทยแท้ Heritage Highlights เยี่ยมเรือนโบร�ณกล�งกรุง
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It’s so tiresome to hear young people defend their points of view when they don’t know about the origin of a conflict. You can’t just say you weren’t born yet. It’s an event that affects your life. If you don’t pay attention to history then your life has no benchmarks.
While driving my cream-colore Fiat 1 5 0 0 D , bought for me by my m o t h e r, I would think about ways to get back into journalism. So I decided to tackle another subject: the economy. My writing, under a pseudonym, turned out to be more provocative than when I was writing about politics.
Did you enjoy that? Every brand has a story.
Smart-alecky people create hatred but I think that’s a good thing. I don’t believe in hierarchy at work. I urge young people to overcome the awkwardness imposed on them by their predecessors.
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