BK Magazine 607 September 18, 2015

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Chuan Chim

BK MAGAZINE NO. 607 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com

Better with Age

Bangkok’s oldest restaurants

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ADVERTORIAL

TIMELESS CHARM History meets modernity on Bangkok’s oldest road, Charoenkrung, and O.P. Place combines the best of both worlds.

EXPLORE

SHOP

The award-winning O.P. Place building was once the Falk and Beideck store, Bangkok’s first shopping mall, built during the reign of king Rama V. Go on a historical journey while you stroll around the restored establishment and take a look at the heritage photos and artworks displayed around the mall.

While there, keep your eyes peeled for scenes of Old Charoenkrung and the traditional Bangkok lifestyle.

Home to 57 stores run by passionate craft-masters and artists, you’ll score the most exquisite handicrafts such as jewelry, antiques, furniture and home decor items of exceptional quality. Also nestled inside the beautiful mall are a variety of talented custom tailors, who will be more than welcome to fit you with the perfect suit.

APPRECIATE THE ARTS Tucked inside the old-school mall is the flagship branch of the Chitralada Foundation store, which just recently unveiled The Asian Shop, a venue showcasing handicrafts from all of Thailand’s regions, chosen annually by The Support Arts and Crafts International Center of Thailand (SACICT), with the goal of preserving the country’s sacred and valuable art pieces, as well as disseminating artistic knowledge for those who are keen to learn more about Thai art. Additionally, O.P. Place is home to contemporary art studio M.T. Gallery as well as Art To Art Gallery, specializing in modern-style sculptures.

WIND DOWN Make a change of scenery and wind down inside the beautiful compounds of the mall with a good book and a coffee at the rustic and charming Rabieng Tip coffee shop. There are also plenty of old-school drinks and desserts on offer. Or simply walk around and take in the well-kept neo-classical styling, beneath two of the grandest crystal chandeliers in Thailand, and take a trip through the floors of the mall inside the impeccably designed Italian-style elevators.

O.P. PLACE SOI CHAROENKRUNG 38 Tel. 0 2266 0186 up to 95 www.opthai.com

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page 3 6 cover story

Old Faves

Coming to a theater near you 10 escape routes

14 avenue

Travel Essentials

Street Style

18 bites

22 bites

Chain Breaks

Cream of the Crop 25 BK Now

26 BK Now

Past Masters

Festival Season

Who's in charge?

Managing Director Andrew Hiransomboon Editor in Chief / Product Director Grégoire Glachant Managing Editor Oliver Irvine Deputy Editor Carl Dixon Features Associate Monruedee Jansuttipan Senior Staff Writer Vasachol Quadri Staff Writers Pinnyada Tanitnon, Lily Kittisrikangwan Junior Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Junior Writers Natcha Sanguankiattichai, Bonnie Sananvatananont

Advertising Director Wanida Akeapichai Sales Manager Tipkritta Chiraporncharas, Orajira Sukkasem Senior Sales Associates Tassanee Mahamad, Onwara Sittirug, Waranuch Thaneerat, Nattaya Bovornsettanon, Orakarn Laohakanjanasiri, Amarit Jinaya

Production Supervisor Komkrit Klinkaeo Art Director Dechart Sangsawang Senior Graphic Designer Panita Thiraphapong Graphic Designers Chantich Kongchanmitkul, Peeraya Sirathanisa Junior Graphic Designers Wariya Whangwaewklang, Parida Ritthiron

IT Manager Takrit Jitjaroen

Cover Wariya Whangwaewklang

Distribution Manager Suda Angsuputiphant

Group Directors

Finance Manager Supaporn Bangmoung Assistant Finance Manager Anchalee Limkhamduang Senior Accountant Maneeya Kanthongdang

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 Media Group

Regional Marketing Manager Pavida Chitprasertsuk Marketing Service Associate Chochat Masrat

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

Administrator Yaovaluck Srisermsri Accountant Manita Bangmoung Contributors Rob Brezsny, Kathy MacLeod Interns Kantita Leangcharoenpong, Theerada Moonsiri, Walaipan Anotaiyuenyong, Jirashaya Chairayus, Nutrada Sottivoranan, Sunputt Puangpet, Thaparit Lomsucka

Sir, Yes, Sir Productions has announced a new sci-fi thriller due for release in 2017, Constitution. In a world ruled by a military junta, Com Dobb (played by Captain Wasana Sabaidee) belongs to the transitioners, an elite group of operatives who use experimental military technology to fold people’s subconscious into layer upon layer of transitional constitutions. Transitioners must plant an idea in a person’s subconscious then carefully water down that idea and add so many clauses, committees and supervisory panels to it that it becomes something else entirely.

Constitution is directed by Paul Osha, a veteran of sweeping epics who is now trying his hand at the psychological genre. “I really want Constitution to mess with people’s heads,” says Osha. “You never really know which reality you’re in. Or what’s going on. Or who’s doing what. Or when it’ll all end.

It’s a movie that just keeps you guessing all the time.”

Facing Com Dobb is an evil gang of politicians and easily-swayed masses who are addicted to dem0-crazy, an ancient Greek drug being synthesized in the USA. Dobb must transition these savage hordes of junkies through careful attitude adjustment, penetrating their consciousness and then performing the inception of feudal ideas. It all promises gripping scenes of psychological torture in exotic military holiday homes set to a soaring score composed by director Paul Osha himself.

While the movie is still in production due to a recent round of contentious rewrites, Osha is promising a 2017 release. “I’m confident we can really wrap this up now,” he says. “It’s just that even we got confused with our own script there for a bit. It’s like life imitating art, a kind of play within a play within a play.”

The film has yet to be picked up by US and European distributors but Burma, North Korea and China have already expressed keen interest. Constitution will definitely need all the support it can get. Its budget, rumored to be running in the billions, could continue to balloon until its final release date.

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

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, September 18, 2015

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upfront HOT OR NOT

Hot: Prime cuts

Not: Nose to tail

2013 was all about nose to tail. Then we realized we don’t like ears, liver and hooves quite as much as we thought. 2015 is back to just the opposite, prime cuts of perfectly aged, beautifully marbled beef, cut by expert butchers. Good luck getting a table at Arno’s but you can also get your cow at Butcher or The Meat Bar 31.

INTERVIEW

Hot: Cops

Not: The PM

These past few weeks the police took center stage for having a laugh with a terrorist (seriously, what could they have been laughing about?); letting another terrorist in at the Cambodian border for a mere B18,000; mismatched DNA samples in the Koh Tao murders case; and organizing a bit of slapstick comedy with Siam Gangster. That makes them a lot more entertaining than Dear Leader, who’s been a bit short on preposterous statements lately.

Hot: Out-of-town music festivals

Not: ‘80s imports

Last week it was a 53-year-old singing “It’s My Life,” now we’re being told the 57-year-old queen of pop could be headed to Bangkok next February. If you’re not a gerontophile, stick to the many great outdoor festivals headed your way, such as Wonderfruit, Big Mountain and Stone Free (see page 26).

Hot: Giant squid

Not: Giant chicken

Deep-fried chicken the size of a deflated basketball was always going to be a hit in this town. But once the photo-shoot’s over, there’s not much pleasant about chewing your way through that much meat, cartilage and fat. Not so with Giant Squid’s (ow.ly/S4MSm) whole flattened mollusks, which taste much, much better than they sound. You have until Sep 29 to try one at Siam Paragon.

Initially opened to mark Anti-Corruption Day 2015 on Sep 6, the Museum of Thai Corruption is designed to spotlight 10 major cases of official corruption in Thailand.

The exhibition, organized by the Anti-Corruption Organization of Thailand (ACT), a non-profit organization, is currently on show to the public through Sep 27 at BACC before becoming a permanent museum at the Office of the National Anti-Corruption Commission later this year. Here, BK talks to Mana Nimitmongkol, secretary of the ACT, about what to expect from this first-of-its-kind event.

Do you think the current government is making progress against corruption?

With this government it’s getting better. In the past, the prosecution process took more than 10 years. If there were 100 corruption cases, not more than five would go to trial. However, even though corruption has noticably decreased, we’re still worried about what will happen when this government’s term ends. Now, we need to focus on formulating a sustainable process of preventing dishonesty and illegal behavior.

What’s the idea behind the museum?

People always say that Thais like to let things go by easily, which serves to make the corrupt even more conceited. For this reason, we want to promote the exhibition as a monument to the dirty trickery of corruption, while roundly condemning those guilty parties. We think Thai citizens need to be consistently reminded of such scandalous people.

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What criteria were used to choose the specific cases?

This is still the early stages of the museum, so we decided to feature a wide range of cases to hold people’s attention, from the petty to the grand.

We found individuals of all political stripes guilty of interfering; moreover, the lack of an effective judgment process is big problem, too.

Can you give some examples?

Of course. The Klong Dan wastewater scheme fraud is an obvious example.

It was concocted by a large group of politicians at both the national and local levels [led by veteran politician Vatana Asavahame], who changed the project details from building two water treatment stations to one in Samut Prakarn, specifically in Klong Dan sub-district, which required the government to buy land from them totalling over a billion baht. Then they used contractors who were actually their cronies, so that they reaped even more benefits.

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How are the cases displayed?

We’ve collaborated with many artists and experts so that the cases are displayed as sculptures accompanied by information boards for each. The exhibition will resume at BACC until Sep 27 before becoming a permanent exhibition at the Office of the National Anti-Corruption Commission on Pitsanulok Road this December. We also plan to take it on the road, especially to places like Klong Dan. Have there been any attempts to censor what you display?

Absolutely not. And if someone tried, I insist they would fail. Because preventing corruption is our duty! The most crucial thing for fighting against corruption is making people fully aware about it. Everyone should unite to prevent corruption together. In the end, it’s all about finding ways to stop people taking advantage of one another. Interview by Theerada Moonsiri For further infomation, visit the ACT fanpage: ow.ly/RMCQB

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THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

by Kathy MacLeod kathymacleod.blogspot.com

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BK Magazine Friday, September 18, 2015

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ADVERTORIAL

DISCOVER THE NEW SHADE OF BLACK Since 2007, the annual “The BLACKLIST” Party by Johnnie Walker Black Label has been regarded as one of the most highly anticipated, glamorous evenings of celebration in Thailand. And this year is no exception. In collaboration with notable icons of today’s generation, THE BLACKLIST: A NEW SHADE OF BLACK will take over an 8,500-square-meter space, covering the hot spots of The House on Sathorn, Ku De Ta and Sathorn Square, where guests are guaranteed an evening of inspiration, entertainment and extravagance.

TIMELESS BLACK

CONTEMPORARY BLACK

ULTIMATE BLACK

Experience the heart and soul of Johnnie Walker through a timeless art and photo exhibition, conveying the passion of the brand through the lens of global and local influencers, curated by the celebrity siblings Kit Kanachai and Petch Bunyapha Bengcharongkul.

In celebration of Bangkok’s trendy lifestyle, the evening features an exclusive fashion collection by some of fashion’s rising stars, Von Sugunnasil of bespoke tailor shop VVON, Pitt Kachai of the chic 612sixtwelve and Ekbutr Udomphol of the stylishly minimal label The Only Son. To top it off, the New Black will take the celebration to a new level with a heated DJ battle between veteran DJ Suharit Siamwala and the indie girls of Yellow Fang.

They say music is the life of the party. To this end, be prepared to get moving on the dance floor to live DJ sets by Bangkok's popular DJ Tob of the Bangkok Invaders, followed by a live performance by Burin Boonwisut x Getsunova, a first collaboration between the two. As the ultimate treat, Johnnie Walker also has big surprises to be unveiled on the night, guaranteed to keep you entertained till late.

And of course, The BLACKLIST experience would not be complete without a menu filled with exclusive cocktails and delectables, elegantly crafted by renowned chefs and mixologists.

Discover the New Black this Sep 19 from 7pm onwards at the Sathorn District.

Invitation only. Find out more at www.theblacklist2015.com.

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cover story

Vintage Diners The faces behind Bangkok’s longest surviving shop-house restaurants. By Natcha Sanguangkiattichai and Monruedee Jansuttipan

Tek Heng

“Most of the old faces have moved away from this neighborhood. It’s (aka Mee Krob Jeen just us still here, as we have been Lee, Mee Krob Ror for five generations. People know Ha) us through their parents, who 326-330 Toedthai Rd., keep coming back for our mee krob Talad Plu, 02-466[crispy fried noodle], to which King 9170, 02-466-9037.

Rama 5 awarded the royal Garuda Open daily Mon-Fri 10am-2pm, 4:30-10pm, badge, as cooked by our grandpa, Sat-Sun 10am-10pm Lee. Too bad we lost the badge to a 130 years old fire 40 years ago. The biggest probSignature dishes: mee lem is trying to find old ingredients krob (crispy fried noo- like som saa (bitter orange) as peodle) dry and in soup ple don’t grow them anymore.”

Suwanit Nitipisit, 58 (from left: Arom Eiamaong-art, 82, Sinchai Nitipisit, 43, Supart Nitipisit 61 and Saran Waritthikul, 36 and Suwanit)

Foo Mui Kee

10-12 Prachum Rd., Silom, 02-234-6648.

Open daily 10am-9pm Roughly 80 years old Signature dishes: ox tales soup and ox tongue stew

“Our father used to work with Western chefs at an embassy.

He brought back the recipes and started this restaurant. We adapted some of the recipes, like the ox tail soup, until the flavor became more sour and spicy to match Thai tastes. I always feel delighted when our old customers say the food still tastes as good as before. We’re old now and don’t do the cooking, so we rely on our chefs who have been with us for 30 years. If one day they decide to leave us, we may have to close down."

Lerdluck Tabloga, 69, pictured with Lalida, 66, and Sunee Tabloga, 73

Udom Pochana

78 Soi Phraeng Phuthon, Rattanakosin, 02-221-3042.

Open daily 7am-3pm 80 years old Signature dishes: beef stew and roasted pork

“My father started off as a vendor at Sanamluang, creating his own recipes for curry, beef stew and roasted pork. I have been doing this since I was 16. We do everything from scratch and have always kept the recipe and cooking methods the same. A job like this isn’t meant to earn you a fortune. You just do it to feed yourself. Now, in addition to my siblings who help at the restaurant, my daughter is also learning to take care of the business. We never hire staff.”

Suwan Rungrojsuwan, 66, pictured with Titikarn Rungrojsuwan, 31

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BK Magazine Friday, September 18, 2015

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cover story Nattaporn Ice Cream

“My father inherited this place from an older friend who was like a grandmother to me. But I didn’t like the 94 Phraeng Phuthon Rd., Rattanakosin, ice cream, which wasn’t homemade, 02-221-3954. Open and so my father and I helped make Mon-Sat 9am-5pm our own recipe, starting with coco70 years old nut milk flavor. After 30 years, chilSignature dish: coconut dren started to want other flavors so ice cream we diversified. Our business was hit when the government offices and residents in the area started to move away, but luckily I have some regulars who helped spread the word and sometimes place big orders.”

Nattaporn Rungrojsuwan, 61

Potsapakarn

443 Tanao Rd., Rattanakosin, 02-222-2686.

Open daily 11am-7pm 91 years old Signature dishes: pongwaree teelakham (fried seabass meat with mayonnaise), mee krob (crispy fried noodles), saeng wa (non-spicy Thai salad) and nam prik (chili paste)

Prachak

1415 Charoenkrung Rd., 02-2343755. Open daily 7:30am-20:30pm 106 years old Signature dishes: roasted duck and roasted pork

“It all started with my great grandfather, who was a cook for one of Rama 5’s sons. We used to appear on TV and in magazines and there were always some relatives complaining about it—they don’t work here, yet they act like they own the place. So we decided to stop making appearances on TV and it’s surely affected the restaurant. Who doesn’t want their business to be known? Though we have such a little space, there’s still a cost to keeping it open. We don’t want to talk about the future of it yet. Just keep it running each day.”

“I had to quit school after eighth grade to help run this restaurant.

Still, I studied in the evenings until I passed the entrance exam to Chulalongkorn. Eventually I won a scholarship to study in the US and graduated with a master’s degree before teaching at Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy. I fully took over this place when my father was too old to run it. Now I’m training my youngest daughter.”

Sanguan Mahasirimongkol, 70, pictured with Panisa Mahasimongkol, 36

Mitr Ko Yuan

186 Dinso Rd., opposite Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, 02-2241194. Open Mon-Fri 11am-2pm, 4-10pm, Sat-Sun 4-10pm 72 years old Signature dishes: tom yam goong and hoy lod pad cha (stir-fried razor clam with chili paste)

"Back in my grandfather’s time, we were in a three-unit shop-house on the opposite side of the road, before the extension of Bangkok City Hall.

After that, we took up this single unit and stopped serving dishes like khao mun gai (Hainanese chicken rice), roasted pork and beef to fit the space. The sales were so much bigger back in the day. Now it’s very hard to find staff. It’s a tough job and we open daily, only ever closing during Songkran.”

Saksun Harnjeerapunya, 42

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BK Magazine Friday, September 18, 2015

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ADVERTORIAL The Roof @38th Bar

Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin

Orchid Cafe

Get Amazing Savings at Bangkok’s Top Restaurants…

Just by Booking a Table Online Planning a big night out in one of Bangkok’s best restaurants? Make sure you book ahead.

But rather than calling the restaurant yourself, use the free new Chope app. Make your reservation through the app any time, 24/7, and not only will they secure your table and send you an email confirming your booking, but you’ll also receive a 20-percent discount on your bill.

And these aren’t second-tier restaurants, either.

As an official partner with BK Magazine’s Top Tables, Chope can be used to reserve tables at some of this city’s very best places to dine.

Here are just a few of the names where you can book a table with Chope and get 20-percent off the bill just by booking online.

Quince

The Kitchen Table

Quince (Sukhumvit Soi 45) serves up casual European food that’s light, fresh and bright (meaning local and seasonal) in portions that encourage sharing and eschew the formality of a traditional three-course dinner. Perfectly paired with the Mediterranean flavors, the faux-vintage brasserie meets idyllic country home atmosphere draws a crowd of beautiful people. Thanks to the very solid wine and cocktails menus, Quince is the kind of place that will make you want to stick around until late.

The chic W Bangkok’s signature restaurant serves Asian flavors in comforting portions with plenty of European influences. At The Kitchen Table (2/F, W Hotel), expect plenty of slow-cooking, such as in the 48-hour braised beef short ribs and crispy, roasted duck breast, but also an emphasis on well-balanced spices. The pad pong gari pu nim (curried wok-fried soft shell crab) served with Maine lobster is a real highlight. Unlike the glamorous and glittery purple vibe of the hotel, the restaurant also sports a warmer interior of wooden furniture, coaches and amber lighting.

Chope exclusive: Book online and dine by 31 October for 20% off the total bill. T&C's apply.

22 Kitchen California-born Nikolas Ramirez helms 22 Kitchen (22/F, Dusit Thani), bringing with him influences from his Hawaiian and Latin roots. The menu focuses on Pacific coastal cuisine like the fresh and simple scallop carpaccio with corn and avocado salsa as well as Nikkei (Peruvian-Japanese fusion) dishes like grilled Maine lobster with “ramen gnocchi” and miso tea. The signature drinks also fit the theme well, like the rum-based Catch 22. Added bonus: the panoramic views of Lumphini park from the Dusit's top floor.

Chope exclusive: Book online and dine by 31 October for 20% off the total bill. T&C's apply.

Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin The Kitchen Table

22 Kitchen

Sra Bua (Lobby/F, Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok) is the Bangkokian sister of Copenhagen’s Kiin Kiin, which, after David Thompson’s London restaurant Nahm (now in Bangkok), became the second restaurant in the world to receive a Michelin star for cooking Thai food. But this is modern gastronomy, making it very different from the traditional Thai cooking at Nahm. A curry might come with the texture and temperature of ice cream, and bites of lobster can be locked into gelatinous pearls that melt in your mouth with a sip of tom yam broth.

Chope exclusive: Book online and dine by 31 October for 20% off the total bill. T&C's apply.

The Roof @38th Bar This open-air rooftop bar on the 38th floor of Mode Sathorn hotel might be just the place to see the whole picture of Lower Silom, thanks to its panoramic rooftop view that includes three bends in the Chao Phraya River and three bridges. As for food, they offer everything from Mexican and Moroccan snacks and cold cuts to inventive Chinese dumplings and fusion sushi. Drink highlights include the Strawberry Cheese Cake Martini.

Chope exclusive: Book online and dine by 31 October for 20% off the total bill. T&C's apply.

Orchid Cafe Offering a buffet and a la carte menu, Orchid Cafe (Sheraton Grand Sukumvit) is a casual bistro has something for everyone, whether it’s apple-wood smoked Alaskan salmon, Indian paneer tikka curry or slow-cooked beef cheek. The restaurant itself is flooded with natural light and offers great people-watching opportunities along Sukhumvit’s Asoke neighborhood.

Chope exclusive: Book online and dine by 31 October for 20% off the total bill. T&C's apply.

Chope exclusive: Book online and dine by 31 October for 20% off the total bill. T&C's apply.

Quince

Chope helps busy diners make instant reservations at Bangkok's best restaurants: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. And it’s free! www.chope.co Chope_4.indd 7

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escapes ESCAPE ROUTES

By Pinnyada Tanitnon and Kantita Leangcharoenpong

CHIANG MAI

Cult Coffee Arnon Thitprasert, the brainchild behind Chiang Mai’s super-cool Ristr8to, has opened a second coffee shop within walking distance of the original. Located between Nimmanhemin sois 3 and 5, the minimal Scandinavian-style Ristr8to Lab (www.fb.com/ristr8to) focuses on the concept of cult coffee, showcasing what Arnon’s learned from various coffee-making competitions and trips around the world. The cafe is divided into three sections with three different menus. The first section is known as the Roasting Lab, where carefully selected beans from some 16 countries are roasted every Sunday to optimum levels of taste. The second section, named Cult Coffee & Coffee in Good Spirit, serves both signature coffee drinks from the world’s largest coffee hubs like Melbourne and San Francisco, and coffee-based alcoholic drinks such as the Ethiopian Monkey (hot mocha with Creme de menthe), Brazilian Godfather (iced mocha with bourbon and navy rum) and the Dirty Orgasm (dopper with Kahlua and Creme de Cacao). The final section, dubbed the Satan Coffee Corner, features a different selection of six types of single-origin coffee beans each week. Here, customers are also taught coffee brewing methods to ensure that their coffee will taste good at home.

KOH SAMUI

Luxe for Less Through Dec 22, the luxurious Conrad Koh Samui is offering a Thailand Weekend Escape Package, where if you stay three nights you get the fourth night free. Starting at B24,000 per night, the ocean-view one-bedroom villa offers a panoramic view of the islands surrounding Samui, which guests can enjoy from the comfort of their bed or couch, thanks to the floor-toceiling windows. Each contemporary Thai-style villa also comes with its own infinity pool. For the promotion to be valid, bookings must be made three days in advance of your stay, which must be on Thursday through Sunday nights only. The booking period runs through Nov 30. For reservations and other information, visit ow.ly/S1eor. All resort guests can enjoy complimentary beachfront activities such as muay Thai, beach volleyball and Samui’s renowned fire shows, plus daily boat trips to nearby islands and beaches.

PHUKET

Into the Wild Keemala Phuket (www.keemala. com) is a new all-pool villa resort overlooking Kamala Village and the Andaman Sea that’s just opened its doors. Taking its inspiration from early Phuket settlers, the resort’s 16 clay pool cottages, seven tent pool villas, seven two-story tree pool houses and eight bird’s nest pool villas are joined together by a network of jungle walkways. The romantic picture is completed by a lush canopy of trees and a continuous stream-like body of running water that snakes its way through the hilly resort. Rates start at B14,341 per night, while the resort also offers a range of holistic retreats starting with the 3-Day Purify (B35,000 per person or B66,000 per couple).

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

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BK Magazine Friday, September 18, 2015

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avenue GROOMING

Perfect Pattern Unlike most of the new tailor shops popping up around town, Tailorbird Shop is headed by a woman, Passara “Mhai” Silapat, who specializes not in business suits but rather wedding-wear. “We have a lot of wedding studios for brides, but no one in this town really cares about the groom,” she says. Though her focus is on things like tuxedos, morning suits and handmade grooms’ accessories (pin, bowtie and pocket square, from B350), she does also offer standard work suits that are made using the same high-quality cloth as her family’s 70-year-old Broadway Tailor shop (Pethchburi Rd.).

Prices start at B11,000 for both work and wedding suits, and the process takes up to 21 days. Suit rental starts from B3,000, while custom rental goes for B8,000 and up. 8 Sukhumvit Soi 28, 081633-4884. Open Mon-Sat 10:30am-6pm. www.fb.com/Tailorbirdshop

HOME

Lofty Kitchen Swedish home furnishing brand Ikea recently launched its new catalog for 2016 under a cooking theme titled “It starts with food.” The new products, in store early next year, play heavily around kitchen gadgets, tableware and decoration. Get the authentic Kinfolk food stylist look thanks to Ivar pine ingredients shelves (from B3,650), the mason jar-style Korken jar with lid (from B79), Rimforsa ingredients tube with bamboo holder (B490 for 4 tubes and B299 for stand) and outdoor wooden dining chairs (from B750). Bangna-Trad Km. 8, 02-708-7999. www. ikea.co.th

SHOPPING

Thai Edition G-Shock fans and collectors listen up: the new limited-edition range designed by Thai street artists will be in store soon. In collaboration with Central Marketing Group, the first G-Shock Siam Manud Street series launched last year to excellent feedback. The 2015 editions come under the concept Thailand National Treasure, and feature the work of four leading local street artists: P7, whose colorful signature graphics are mixed with Northern Thailand’s traditional play, Pi Ta Khon; Clubpopp, who has interpreted Sino-Portuguese scenes from his hometown, Phuket, in a multicolor style; Benzilla, who has made an edition that looks at Central Thailand’s origins; and Tikkywow, whose work represents Northern Thailand.

Only 250 items available per print. Distribution starts with the P7 collection, available from Sep 19 onwards. For details about retailers, visit www.fb.com/casio.thailand

FITNESS

Get Physical After branching throughout Eastern Europe, Indonesia and Malaysia, the Poland-born Jatomi Fitness is now entering Bangkok as its third destination in Asia. Jatomi is not a place to go and mess around but rather to attend serious classes such as Fit Girls for cardio, Pure Pump for strength and endurance, and Burn It for advanced athletes. Other classes include spinning, yoga, pilates and boot camp styles. The first branch is now open at Big C Ratchadamri, while a second branch is expected to open at Lotus Rama 4 on Oct 8. Membership price starts from B1200 to B2000 per month full access to all classes. 4/F, Supercenter Big C, Ratchadumri Rd. Open daily 6:30am-10:30pm. www.jatomifitness.co.th

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avenue FASHION

Front-row Looks Five key street-style takeaways from Elle Fashion Week 2015 (Sep 3-6). By Vasachol Quadri and Chantich Kongchanmitkul

Matching jacket, Vickteerut, B9,800

Mini dress, Milin, B14,850

Black and white Big Bang skirt, Poem, B9,590

Black flarred pants, Vickteerut, B5,800

Suit Up Seventies fashion is all the rage right now.

Looking to hop on the bandwagon? The matching suit is the place to start. Ditch the gown and head out on the town in a suit set. The patterns give off a masculine attitude, while the loose, flared pants keep things feminine.

White checked flared pants, ASV, price TBA

Sexy Back

B a c k- c u tout dress, Vickteerut, B5,900

You can’t go wrong with a strapless dress.

Currently, fashion designers are playing around more with cutout details aiming to redefine sexiness. This season it’s all about the back-cutout mini-length dresses.

Up and Away With 3D-inspired shapes lighting up the runways, another must-have item is a below-the-knee balloon skirt. Complete the look with a crop top and high heels.

Black skirt with flower embroidery, Kloset, B7,850

Wrap top, Vickteerut, B6,100

White bohemian dress, Issue, price TBA

Off-white velvet Black Hole dress, Poem, price TBA

White gown, Asava, price TBA

Essentials Kloset. 3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-1729. BTS Siam ASAVA and ASV. 2/F, Emquartier, 689 Sukhumvit Rd., 099-058-4690. BTS Phrom Phong

Statement Dress Every dress makes its own statement. If you’re looking for something unique, go for a contrasting look, like glam street wear or wild bohemian style. Note: Maxi length is hot right now.

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White is the New Black

Print maxi dress, Issue, price TBA

You have enough pictures of yourself in a black dress. White is where it’s at this season, whether it’s a matching suit (see above), asymmetric dress or wrap dress.

You can also play with the materials to match your personality, too.

Poem. 2/F, Emquartier, 689 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-269-1000. BTS Phrom Phong Milin. 3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-1134. BTS Siam Issue. Siam Square Soi 3, Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-4416. BTS Siam Vickteerut. 2/F, Emquartier, 689 Sukhumvit Rd., 085-072-6806. BTS Phrom Phong

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ADVERTORIAL

7

Friday Night Hacks for the Perfect Evening Ari

Pick the right neighborhood

Hot Rod

Pre-game in style Daniel Thaiger

Traffic can get pretty bad on a Friday night. But that shouldn’t stop you from having a good time. Plan wisely and pick a neighborhood that suits your style and has everything to keep your crew entertained all night long. Pick from Bangkok’s coolest ‘hoods: the fusion foodie hub of Ari, the sophisticated drinking strip of Sathorn sois 10-12 or the rising Suan Phlu. For more ideas, check out BK’s neighborhood pages (bk.asia-city.com/neighborhoods).

Don’t make the mistake of hitting the dancefloor too soon. Take some time to enjoy your drinks with good company and some good nibbles. Some of our picks for getting the party started include Teriyaki Bar Kelly’s (Sukhumvit Soi 51) for some izakaya-style food and cheap mixes, Hot Rod (Sukhumvit Soi 63) for elaborate yet reasonably priced cocktails, Happy Monday (Ekkamai Soi 10) for an indie soundtrack and small bottles of Sangsom, and Smokin’ Pug (Surawong Rd.) for killer nachos and smoky bourbon cocktails.

Fill your stomach without interrupting the night After a long day at work, the last thing you want to do is skip dinner. The night is still young. And drinking on an empty stomach is recipe for disaster. Even if you’re in a hurry, grab-and-go options abound.

Some of fave food truck picks include the burgers from Daniel Thaiger on Sukhumvit Soi 23 and Mother Trucker on Khao San. Elsewhere, there are a bunch of new taco trucks in town - our pick is Cactus BKK in Suan Phlu.

Woobar

Stay away from Wong’s… or not Don’t want to call it night just yet? Chances are, you’ll stumble into one of these bouncing after-hours bars (just don’t say we didn’t warn you!): make-out centrale Wax (Sukhumvit Soi 11), the smoky holein-the-wall Wong’s Place (Sathorn Soi 1), backpacker haunt Mulligans (Khao San Rd.) or the oh-so-trendy Dark Bar (Ekkamai Soi 10).

Khao Mun Gai Pratu Nam

Catch happy hour It’s important to have a good time and not break the bank the next morning.

By far the best one we’ve come across is W Bangkok’s Woobar (Sathorn Rd.), which has long been the top pick for Ladies’ Night on Fridays, serving unlimited bubbles till 10pm. Another top pick is Wine Bibber Sangria, which does daily happy hours from 5-9pm.

Dark Bar

Grab late-night munchies

GrabTaxi

Drink don’t drive Ever! And don't use the excuse that your house is "too far" for taxis,. either.

GrabCar offers a premium and affordable limousine service that will make sure your journey home, or from bar to bar, is safe and sound. The fare is calculated from a base rate of B75, plus trip distance in kilometers (+B12.5 for 0-10km and +13.5 for 10km onwards). And it’s easy to use.

Just download the GrabTaxi app for free on Apple iOS and Android, book GrabCar through the app, and you’re good to go.

Simple, safe and stylish.

When in need of a boozy bite, Bangkok’s a gem if you know where to look beyond the moo ping sticky rice in front of Arena 10 or your nearest 7-Eleven. Old favorites include Khao Mun Gai Pratu Nam and Pad Thai Pratu Phee, but if you’re still mourning the demise of Thonglor’s Rex, you simply have to drop by the 24-hour diner at Malaysia Hotel in Sathorn Soi 1, where pretty much the whole kitchen team have relocated. Do order the classic khao tom gui.

TRY YOUR FIRST RIDE FOR FREE!

KEY IN PROMO CODE

UP TO 200 BAHT

BKGC

*This is for first user only. If you have tried any service in the GrabTaxi app before the code would not work.

The promo code will be available from 18 Sep 15 to 30 Oct 15

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ADVERTORIAL

F O N R U T E R E TH N O O M L L U F LEO 5 1 0 2 P E S 7 2 6 2 A NEW CHAPTER IN FULL MOON HISTORY After a successful first run this past August, complete with a pre-Full Moon beach cleaning party and a fun-filled Full Moon celebration, Leo Full Moon makes an even bigger and better return at Cactus Bar Sep 26-27, with a pre Full Moon party to warm up for the big day of full blast celebration of the full moon.

@ CACTUS BAR, KOH PHANGAN

Dance the night away on the spacious T-stage dance floor with the Sexy Leo Dancers as you lose yourself in the music. Enjoy the hair-raising fire shows and take advantage of everything else the party has to offer!

Here are a few reasons why you should come and party with us.

DON’T LEAVE EMPTY HANDED

LIVE IT UP WITH THE FORGET BUCKETS, WE HAVE THE REAL DEAL SEXY LEO DANCERS

Party with us and score a chance to win exclusive Leo goodies and merchandise to remind you of the memorable two nights of full-blast partying.

Hang out with the talented Leo Girls and the fancy dancers from the island, who will be performing at 9pm and midnight showcasing their sleek and spicy moves.

And by real deal, we really mean the real deal. Brother brands Leo and Singha will be offering B80 beers.

Not a beer person? No problem.

We also have B350 refreshing giant Singha mojitos all night long. What more can you ask for?

PARTICIPATING DJS The legendary line-up of DJ J2K, DJ Mettro, DJ Crazyboyz, as well as 2 special local DJs, who will start spinning their electronic beats from 6pm till late.

For more information please visit

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bites & blends

AFTERNOON TEA

On the House The recently opened mansion right next to W Hotel, The House on Sathorn, has now rolled out a daily afternoon tea on its outdoor terrace, dubbed The Courtyard. The B1,150 signature set for two includes your choice of TWG Tea from the House Collection, a refreshing sorbet of the day, traditional scones and other neatly presented delicacies on a three-tier platter.

Other items include black sesame cheesecake, banana creme brulee and sea-salted caramel chocolate tart. On the savory side, the mushroom-truffle mascarpone croissant and ocean trout gravlax on rye bread are delightful, too.

A glass of Chandon Sparkling Wine is B275 and Mini Moët & Chandon (20cl bottle) B975. Afternoon tea is served from 2:30pm-5:30pm daily.

106 Sathorn Rd., 02-344-4000. BTS Chong Nonsi. www.thehouseonsathorn.com

MOONCAKE

CAFÉ

EVENT

Choco Moon

Sweet Retreat

One for All

For this year’s Mid-Autumn Festival, Sofitel So’s chocolate-specializing outlet Chocolab is offering four new mooncake flavors that revolve around chocolate. Five Nuts features chocolate, amaretto and mixed nuts; Macadamia Brownie has a rich, brownie-like filling and chocolate-flavor coating; Lemon cherry fills a lime-green chocolate crust with amarena cherry and lemon filling; and Raspberry and Cheese features a pinkish crust covering a center of raspberry, cheesecake and crunchy white chocolate. Single mooncakes are priced at B125, or buy a red-draw box of four pieces for B620. They’re available now at Chocolab till Sep 27. G/F, Sofitel So, 2 Sathorn Rd., 02-6244000. MRT Lumpini

Butterscotch is a new ice-cream shop that claims to make its home-style ice cream and toppings from scratch, without chemicals. A scoop of ice cream sets you back B70 while sundaes are B125. Try the signature butterscotch sundae (a scoop of butterscotch ice cream atop brownie chunks, topped with chocolate biscuit pieces, homemade butter crumb and butterscotch sauce) or mac ‘n’ cheese sundae with crispy bacon, which has caused quite a stir on social media. The waffles, made from the owner’s grandma’s recipe, are another highlight, which you can have added to your sundae at B15 extra or enjoy in a dish like Grandma’s Waffle and Egg (waffle with egg, bacon and butterscotch maple syrup, B155). 3 Ekkamai Soi 10, 088-165-4442

Though dubbed Bangkok Restaurant Week, this foodie event runs an entire month. From now till Oct 4, food review website Wongnai partners with almost 40 restaurants in Bangkok to roll out one-price lunch and dinner deals. Priced at B499 for lunch and B699 for dinner, you can dine on three-course meals at some of Bangkok’s best restaurants including Attico, Seven Spoons, Fillets, The China House and Smith. Deals can be purchased on the Wongnai smartphone application, which lets you choose payment via credit card or counter service. Our advice? Check the menus being served before booking. Visit www.wongnai.com/restaurantweek for more information.

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ADVERTORIAL

10 mooncakes you have to try during this year’s Quartier Mooncakes Festival

Simply W

Sufong

Grand Hyatt Erawan

Mei-Xin

Held from Sep 16-27, the mooncakes festival at M-Floor, Emquartier, gathers Bangkok’s top shops that offer a variety of the Mid-Autumn Festival treats. These are some of the best you just can’t miss.

Banyan Tree

The Peninsula

Shangri-La Hotel

Made fresh daily at the hotel's Chinese restaurant, Bai Yun, the mooncakes come with the hotel’s unique logo printed on the face. Fillings range from the traditional red bean, black sesame and lotus seed to the more updated assorted nuts, durian, custard, jujube and walnut, and Chinese chestnut. Price B165.

Offering one of the best-selling custard mooncakes in Bangkok, Peninsula’s Chinese restaurant Mei Jiang goes full force on custard this year, leaving other flavors behind. Priced at B650 per box of eight cakes, the golden yellow little treats are filled with well-balanced custard while the dough is a bit crusty and packed with a nice baked-pastry aroma. An individual piece can also be bought at B180.

Added to Shang Palace’s five conventional flavors—cream custard, durian, lotus seed, red bean and mixed fruits and nuts—are new flavors like green tea cookies and cream, taro gingko and chestnut almond. On top of that, there’s also a premium snow-skin cream custard with bird nest mooncake available.

A set of 4-8 pieces is priced starting at B688 and comes in an exquisite handbag-like box with drawers.

Mei-Xin

Simply W

Conrad Priced at B115 per cake, Conrad’s delicious mooncakes come in five favorite flavors: custard, durian, white lotus, multigrain and red bean. The unique vertical-oriented collectible gift box of eight cakes is also available at B1,950.

Dhara Dhevi On top of colorful macarons, this Chiang Mai dessert brand also does four flavors of mooncakes: cream custard, durian with egg yolk, jujube paste and lotus seed paste with egg yolk. Recommended to be paired with a cup of Dhara Dhevi tea, a set of eight mooncakes with a box is priced at B588.

Grand Hyatt Erawan Fine and elegant, Grand Hyatt Erawan offers nothing but classic options. With the hotel’s signature elephant stamp on top, two flavors are available, namely durian paste and lotus seed paste, both with an egg yolk at the very center. A set of mooncakes (B1,588) includes one large durian paste mooncake as well as six small lotus seed paste mooncakes.

Hong Kong’s renowned mooncake specialist is available in Thailand for the first time. Known for the awardwinning white lotus seed mooncake with a special double-roasted salted egg yolk, and the rich custard lava mooncake, Mei-Xin (aka Maxim’s) is one not to be missed. Sold alongside are the traditional red bean and mixed nut flavors as well as an aromatic oolong tea variety. A set of 4 pieces is priced at B855.

Moonne For the first time, cutesy Frenchstyle dessert specialist Moonne celebrates the Chinese festival with the launch of its original mooncakes.

Moonne’s eight flavors are influenced by other desserts, including custard (Madagascan vanilla custard with salted egg yolk), The Gold (chocolate filled with salted egg yolk) and blueberry cheesecake (cheesecake crust filled with blueberry cake). In addition to the ordinary round-shaped cakes, the shop offers specially-shaped versions of the same flavors. Both sets are available in teak wooden box for B1,650 and B1,750.

British brand Whittard of Chelsea’s cafe Simply W also joins to celebrate the occasion with eight distinguished flavors that are not only tasty and aromatic, but also shaped in unique designs. A box of 4-8 pieces is priced starting at B790 while an individual cake is also available at B175.

Dhara Dhevi

The Peninsula

Sufong The delectable Malaysian brand has been creating new flavors and styles of mooncakes year after year.

While the original flavors like durian remain, there are also some interesting updates. The Hummingbird, for example, comprises five layers of pastry, coconut butter skin, thick banana white lotus seed paste, salted cream-cheese mung bean paste and pineapple. Prices start from B188.

Shangri-La Hotel

Moonne

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bites

Casa Azul

La Monita

Organic Supply

WISH LIST

Missing Links Sure, there are heaps of international chain restaurants in Bangkok already. But we’re still missing some of the good stuff. Here are the names we’d love to see in this city.

By Natcha Sanguangkiattichai

Whole Foods Market This eco-friendly, organic chain of grocery stores is a healthy eater’s heaven. Here, you’ll find products ranging from fresh produce to homeware and even clothes. The deli section is also amazing, whipping up organic, ready-to-eat meals that taste better than many chain restaurants. A lot of branches also carry organic beer and wine.

Bangkok alternatives: Baimiang Health Shop (The Circle, Ratchapruk Rd., 028638-576) and newcomer Organic Supply (148 Nakniwat Rd., 021-016-410)

Grom It’s preposterous that Bangkok still lacks a good international gelato name. Specializing in Italy’s signature icy treat, Grom is a huge franchise that not only makes flavorful gelato but also uses organic ingredients.

Bangkok alternative: Ci Gusta (Fifty Fifth Plaza, 90, Sukhumvit Soi 55 [Thonglor], 02-714-7344) is one of the most authentically whipped gelatos we’ve found among local brands.

Chipotle How does this brand make something so simple taste so phenomenal? And if you peer into the kitchen, you won’t see anything fancy either. We put those delicious burritos and bowls down to their use of local, chemical-free produce, free-range meat and fresh ingredients. Who wouldn’t want good food fast?

Bangkok alternatives: Zambrero (6/F CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 022-511-788)?

Ugh, “fancier” components but don’t even taste half as good.

La Monita (Mahatun Plaza, Ploen Chit Rd., 02-650-958) will have to suffice for now.

Sushirrito The brainchild of a San Franciscan sushi and burrito lover and Hawaiian fusion chef, this genius idea makes all of us wonder why we haven’t thought of it ourselves. The giant rice and seaweed outside acts as a “tortilla,” stuffed and rolled with Hawaiian ingredients such as hand-line caught yellowfin tuna, fresh salmon, shrimp, pulled pork, cucumbers, avocado and, of course, pineapple.

Zambrero

Bangkok alternatives: The sushi sandwiches at Isao (Sukhumvit Soi 31, 022-580645) actually cut it pretty close, as well as the tuna burrito at Casa Azul (2/23 Phahon Yothin Soi 7 [Ari], 02-619-5107).

But they’re still just not it.

Chick-Fil-A Chicken and fries done right—not too dry, not too oily and not too salty. Their spicy chicken sandwiches and waffle fries are to die for.

Bangkok alternative: KFC? A&W? You don’t need us to tell you they can hardly compare. We still have to see how Texas’s Church’s Chicken does when it opens its first branch here soon.

The Coffee Club

IHOP There are definitely better breakfast places out there, but they’re not 24/7. So when you’re hungry for breakfast at 3:30am, IHOP is almost always the right choice. The offerings are classic: eggs, sausages, toasts, hashes, sandwiches and waffles, which guarantee to make comforting meals. Don’t forget they also have a selection of flavored syrups for you to drunkenly drench your pancakes in.

Bangkok alternative: Bangkok has a long list of breakfast places. The Coffee Club (Sukhumvit Soi 63, 023-812-736) probably comes closest in vibe.

Isao

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bites & blends market + Events

Mikkeller Paste

Thonglor Food Festival From Sep 17-Oct 3, about 30 restaurants in the Thonglor area launch new signature dishes and roll out activities like cooking classes, workshops and wine tasting sessions. Some of the participating restaurants include The Raw Bar, Moulin, Paste, Ifitis, ABC and Beccofino. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/Thonglorfoodfestival

Mikkeller Madness On Oct 14, Mikkeller clears up its chalkboard and rolls out, they say, their craziest beers on all 30 taps.

The list includes Beer Geek Breakfast, Nuclear Hop Assault and Spontandoubleblackcurrant.

26 Ekkamai Soi 10 Yaek 2, 02-381-9891

Deals

Advertise your business with us ­ starting from B6,000

All you can eat Nishiki presents an all-you-can-eat a la carte buffet lunch and dinner featuring more than 40 selections at B799/person.

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

L/F, Golden Tulip Sovereign, 92 Soi Saengcham, Rama 9 Rd., 02-641-4777

Vue Foodtruck Credit card/Debit card payment accepted

Vue Foodtruck From Sep 18-20, 4-11pm, meet some of Bangkok’s best food trucks at Vue. 707 Soi Charoennakorn 13, 02-861-0298

The Capital Journey The Capital by Water Library hosts a four-course sake-pairing dinner featuring chef Sebastian Schafer’s fusion cuisine on Sep 24. B1,900/person.

The Capital by Water Library, 3/F, Empire Tower, Sathorn Rd., 02-286-9548. BTS Chong Nonsi

Senor Pico

A Night for Gentlemen Every Thu from 5pm-midnight, receive a 25-percent discount on signature margaritas, sangrias and mojitos for gentlemen accompanied by a lady at Senor Pico.

The Rembrandt, 02-261-7100

New Venues Dazzle Charoenkrung welcomes a serious ice cream spot that gets creative with flavors and methods.

Issaya Cooking Studio

559 Soi Si Wiang, Charoenkrung Rd., 089797-4095

Cooking with Emelie Holm Issaya Cooking Studio’s Swedish guest chef Emelie Holm leads a workshop on healthy dishes and guilt-free desserts on Sep 26 from 3-6pm.

BKmagazine.com/TopTables

LG/F, Central Embassy, 1031 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-160-5636. BTS Phloen Chit

New York! New York!

You’re Not Worth It Beervana hosts a six-course IPA beer-pairing dinner with Thai food at Bo.lan on Oct 2. B3,400/person.

Reservations can be made at sip@ seekbeervana.com or 021-080-387.

24 Sukhumvit Soi 53, 02-260-2961. BTS Thong Lo

So Amazing Chefs The annual international chefs gathering at Sofitel So takes place on Oct 6-11. Expect dinners, brunches and workshops.

A Guide to Bangkok’s Best Restaurants

New York! New York!

A new NY-style deli counter serving hotdogs and more.

G/F, Park Ventures Ecoplex, Ploen Chit Rd., 095-576-4026

Galleria Milano An Italian restaurant themed after Milan’s iconic 19th century arcade, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Mille Malle, Sukhumvit Soi 20, 02-6634788

2 Sathorn Rd., 02-624-0000. MRT Lumpini

THE EASIEST WAY TO BOOK YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS 20

Find out more at www.chope.co/toptables

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bites

OPEN DOOR

Vanilla Cafeteria The buzz: The stylish arm of S&P, Vanilla, has opened its fifth outlet. And this new venue aims to be something of a flagship, keeping the same cafe cuisine but in a more polished environment.

The decor: The restaurant takes up the innermost space of Emquartier’s Helix building, next to the walkway connecting it to the Waterfall building. Compared to other Vanilla endeavors, it’s all rather moody and grown-up, with lots of dark marble and equally dark wood. In front of the open kitchen you’ll find casual high tables, while opposite are curvaceous, elegant dining tables with views of the waterfall. Outside sits a terrace with more seating.

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The food and drinks: The food here is adapted from other Vanilla outlets’ bestselling items. The focus is on hearty Western dishes with slight tweaks, like the flour tortilla quesadilla filled with spinach and Italian sausage (B290), roasted mushroom and brie cream soup (B320), pan-fried salmon with pesto linguine (B420), crunchy prawn quinoa salad served with Japanese-style tempura sauce (B480) and smoked pork chop with raspberry gravy on a bed of bacon sauteed red cabbage (B480). On top of new desserts like the charcoal pavlova (B220), Vanilla’s specialty crepes are still on the menu with options like mango sticky rice (B360) and Kahlua banoffee (B360). Out front is a coffee and tea station, where highlights include siphon coffee (B180-220) and tea (B220/pot).

There are 10 tea blends to choose from including Vanilla Morning

(white tea, vanilla, chamomile and mint) and Royal Star (green tea, oolong, peach and redcurrant) as well as coffee beans from Brazil, Kenya, Panama and Omkoi in Northern Thailand.

Why you should care: This is definitely the best we’ve seen from the Vanilla chain. They keep the style strong while also making progress with the food. Natcha Sanguankiattichai 2/F, Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-003-6124. BTS Phrom Phong

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Yoogane

TABLE TALK

Moe Sushi and Bar Oyster Harem

Pie Face

NEW AND NOTED

Sea Shells

New oyster delivery service Oyster Harem claims to source its seafood fresh from Surat Thani every two days. A standard order will set you back B400 for five palm-sized oysters, bundled with spicy oyster and seafood sauces. Orders can be made via LINE (tob_tob_chunsri) or 092-962-2911, and delivery throughout Bangkok starts at B60.

Pie in the Sky

The Australian pie chain Pie Face (B/F, Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-269-1000) has made its way to Bangkok. The red counter serves up pies, tarts and even coffees adorned with the chain’s signature smiley faces, which ought to prove a hit with the city’s emoji-obsessed. Pie favorites include chunky steak, chicken, and mushroom and minced beef, as well as the specially created green curry with chicken (all B80 each).

Mini pies are priced at B35 while sweet pies like butterscotch, chocolate and raspberry are B42 each.

Seoul Food

Made popular by Korean TV series like It's OK, That's Love and Oh My Ghost, Yoogane (Siam Square Soi 7, 02-6584688) is a dakgalbi (stir-fried chicken) chain that originated in 1981 in Busan, South Korea, which now has more than 100 branches in eight countries. Like at Dak Galbi, raw ingredients are served to your table in a large hot pan, which goes over a table-top electric stove, and you can choose whether you want to cook them yourself or let the staff do the heavy lifting. The star dish here is the cheese chicken galbi (marinated chicken in sauce stir-fried with leeks, onion, rice cakes and sweet potato with mozzarella cheese melted on the outer ring of the pan, B750 for medium only). Other choices of protein and sauces range from B320 for small to B930 for large. Additional toppings like noodles and rice cakes can be added for B60-120. Other options include fried rice (B220/SB610/L) and side dishes like Korean seafood pancake (B300).

G/F, LUXX XL Hotel Langsuan, Lumpini, 026-504-769.

Open Daily 11:30am-2pm Sun-Thu 5:30-10pm, Fri-Sat to midnight.

Located in Luxx XL hotel, this Japanese restaurant offers dishes unlike any other. Get your appetite going with creations like Ohmi Fly (Ohmi wagyu, quail egg, cavier, B450), Full-on Botan Ebi (B380) and fried rice with spider crab (B450). They also often do set promotions including the super toro otoro set (B1,500), taraba set (B980) and honmaguro set (with the likes of fatty tuna belly, medium fatty tuna and regular tuna, B980). For workaholics, Moe offers a lunch box bento set (with main, salad, soup and snack) for quick takeaway at B150-250. Don’t finish the meal without trying their green tea charcoal ice cream (B80).

Exclusive privileges for Citibank credit cardmembers.

Get 15% discount on Sashimi and other sushi for Citibank Ultima, Preferred and Select Get 10% discount on Sashimi and other sushi for other Citibank cardmembers Today – 29 Feb 16

Natcha Sanguankiattichai

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

Simply click “Thailand” and then “Gift voucher”

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bites FOOD REVIEWS

Metro on Wireless HHHH Thai/International. 2/F, Hotel Indigo, 81 Wireless Rd., 02-207-4999. Open daily 6am-11:30pm. BTS Phloen Chit. BB F

The restaurant at Intercontinental Hotel Group’s recently opened boutique property has looked past the tourist Thai food norm to create somewhere that might actually register on local radars.

Metro on Wireless sits in a light, inviting space on the hotel’s second story, highlighted by a beautiful parquet floor, huge windows and open kitchen. Some of the menu’s range of regional Thai favorites has also been created in conjunction with chef Ian Kittichai of Issaya Siamese Club (#26, Top Tables 2015). This being the hotel’s only restaurant, there is also the usual all-day “international” staples, but that’s really not where the heart of the menu lies.

Dinner starts with a complimentary—and commendably fiery—naam prik pao (chili jam) that makes for a reassuring sign that flavors here have not been pacified to meet foreign palates. And the rest of

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HHHH

Complete guides on where to eat, drink, shop and play in all your favorite areas of Bangkok.

Japanese. Soi Yommarat, Sala Daeng Rd., 090419-9969. Open Mon-Sat 11am-10pm. BTS Sala Daeng/MRT Silom. BB-BBBB

Tucked down a dead-end soi off Sala Daeng, this tiny sushi bar draws in an impressive after-work office crowd. It’s certainly not for the decor; the tight, 24-seat space has little to catch the eye. The menu, too, serves up typical selections of sashimi, nigiri sushi and don (rice with topping), plus a few more ostentatious offerings with ingredients like foie gras and wagyu beef. We respect the fact that Fatboy Sushi isn’t aiming higher than being just a solid neighbourhood haunt, but t h e re ’ s s t i l l n o t a g rea t d ea l to recommend. The freshness isn’t in doubt (fish is imported three days a week), just don’t expect too many fireworks on the sushi front. Many dishes face much the same problems as the recommended ikura truffle oil (salmon caviar with truffle oil, B150),

For sponsorship and advertising opportunities, email advertising@asia-city.co.th or call 026249613, 614, 620

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.

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the food also delivers. The crabmeat kanom-jeen (B250) is a noticeable highlight, featuring a crabmeat-filled broth whose creamy coconut flavor masks a heavy undercurrent of chili. In contrast, the roasted duck red curry (B370) is milder, yet still boasts a wellbalanced, full flavor. The duck itself is plentiful, moist and well-cooked. Less successful is the scallop and crabmeat wing bean salad on special (B290), not for the salad itself, which tastes rich and moreish without being overly sweet, but for the rather sad Hokkaido scallops and absence of much crabmeat. But in general, there’s really not much to count against Metro on Wireless’s food. It’s greater problem might be the more charismatic Thai restaurants to have opened on Wireless Road recently. Just one set of traffic lights away is chef Thitid Tassanakajohn’s Baan, which for prices slightly below those at Metro serves a charmingly down-to-earth menu in an environment that’s mature and polished.

Even Osha, the flamboyant Thai finedining restaurant which opened at the end of last year, offers lunch deals at almost exactly the same prices, starting from B290. In Metro’s favor is an anytime buy-one-get-one-free deal on Wolf Blass Yellow Label Riesling and shiraz (both B350/glass; B1,700/bottle) and quality cocktails courtesy of the downstairs bar, 22 Steps, but there’s still really no question where we’d rather be dining.

whose flavor is underwhelming and accompanied by rice that’s too dry. The anago ozuro (torched sea eel, B180) s ad ly comes torched rather than grilled—the usual cooking method for eel—meaning it lacks the comforting burnt notes you’d expect. The Fatboy rolls (wagyu, foie gras, cheese, rocket and cucumber, B850) might well be the place’s low-point, with all the premium ingredients simply overpowered by the cheese. The more-straightforward wagyu blanket (torched wagyu beef, B280) makes a much better option, even if the portions are quite small.

What we like most here has to be the refreshing mixed sashimi salad (B380) that comes with a Japanese dressing that’s a perfect mix of soy sauce and sesame oil. The staff is pretty pushy about the seasonal menu, too; on our last visit, we tried the iwashi sashimi (sardines, B400/B800), which was very fresh and tasty. Dessert is little more than the usual green tea ice cream, while we were pretty shocked to find that their cold green tea is nothing more than generic supermarket bottles a n d h ot i s i n st a n t tea b a g s . Fo r something stiffer, there’s a small selection of sake and plum wine. While hardly the worst option around for budget sushi, we feel little inclination to return to Fatboy Sushi, especially with Seiryu Sushi in the same neighborhood.

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

Symbols

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

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SAT Past Masters One of the best art exhibitions to open this month is Rediscovering Forgotten Thai Masters of Photography, which opens at Bangkok University Gallery (119 Rama 4 Rd.) this Sep 19 at 6pm as the final main exhibition of the inaugural Photo Bangkok Festival 2015. Curated by renowned photographer Manit Sriwanichpoom, the exhibition contains the amazing photography of seven Thai masters: Buddhadasa Bhikku (1906-1993), Mom Luang Toy Xoomsai (1906-1961), Liang Ewe (1911-1992), Saengjun Limlohakul (1924-1997), S.H. Lim (1930-present), Rong Wong-savun (1932-2009) and Pornsak Sakdaenprai (1938-present). For more art exhibitions opening in Bangkok this week, see page 29

SUN Car Free Leave your car at home this Sep 20 as the city celebrates the annual Bangkok Car Free Day 2015 in the heart of the Old Town. From 9am onwards, the area around Sanam Luang will turn into a walking street for shopping, eating and chilling all day through 6pm. There will also be a morning cycling tour of Rattanakosin Island (register at www.bangkokcarfree.com), extreme cycling shows, free health-checkups, and live music performances. On the day, free trams and bicycles will be provided for visitors to explore the oft-forgotten, historical side of the city.

Winter music festivals are on the way (see page 26). But if you can’t wait, the Kolour party crew returns this Saturday, Sep 19, with Sunn - A New Rising. The night-time music concept features three music zones and tunes from Bangkok-based DJs and international headliner Teenage Mutants taking over the main room. Daniel Thaiger will be flipping burgers, and there will also be local craft beers at the outdoor terrace of Live RCA (Rama 9). Tickets are available at www.sunnexperience.com.

MON Like Animals And the wait is over. After all the ticketing controversies and months of social media drama that followed, Adam Levine and co. are finally here in Bangkok for Maroon 5 V World Tour this Sep 21-22, with support from Swedish Trio Dirty Loops. Needless to say, tickets are all sold out. Hardcore fans that were lucky enough to snatch a ticket will finally get to see these guys take over Impact Arena (99 Popular Rd., Muang Thong Thani) again for the fourth time with all their chart-topping hits from “This Love” to “Sugar.”

WED Attack of the Drones The big news for rock fans is the highly-awaited arrival of British prog group Muse, also taking over Impact Arena (99 Popular Rd., Muang Thong Thani) this Sep 23.

With six chart-conquering albums to their name, and the recent single release of “Mercy” in May, this show should be bombastic if nothing else. Tickets are B2,0005,000, available at Thaiticketmajor.

BAAN LAIMAI, PHUKET On the happening Patong Beach, the sleek and relaxing Baan Laimai resort is equipped with a giant pool, luxe pool bar and beachside restaurant specializing in Thai and international seafood.

The restaurant’s sandy brown chairs, ruched grey ceilings and playful mural walls make for a hip and cheerful spot to hang out after a day relaxing on the beach, or a great dinner spot to fuel up for a night at the beach clubs.

Dine while cooled by a sea breeze on one of the comfortable woven rattan chairs and enjoy fresh seafood with a glass of cold beer, or set the tone for a great night and sing along to the live band while you enjoy classic Southern dishes.

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ADVERTORIAL

Join Singha this 24 Sep for Singha Night, featuring B99 net beers all night long. Additionally, the Singha promotional girls will be hosting a lucky draw, giving you the opportunity to win exclusive Singha merchandise. The event will be happening every other Thursday of every month, so don’t miss out!

Visit www.facebook.com/SinghaBeerTH to stay tuned to upcoming party dates with Baan Laimai, and see what’s on around Thailand.

Baan Laimai Patong Beach Resort, 66 Thaweewong Rd., Patong, Phuket, 076-292-956. www.baanlaimai.com

brought to you by Singha BK Magazine Friday, September 18, 2015 BE 9/14/2558

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NIGHTLIFE

Cool winter music festivals coming up

Studio's DJ King Kong. Sep 18, 9pm. Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. B350. BTS Thong Lo. NAKADIA [GET PHYSICAL MUSIC]

The Thai female DJ returns from Ibiza to play deep house, tech house and techno. Doors open at 7pm.

Sep 18, 10pm. Live RCA Bangkok, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 086-860-0808. B300.

TA-MONE, THE DRUM & BASS BATTLEGROUND

A drum 'n' bass party featuring DJs Thar Khone, Goo and D-Goose on the 4/F, Case 49. Sep 19, 9pm. Grease, Piman 49, 46/12-13 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-662-6120-1.

B200 (one free drink).

DJ Vinai

WONDERFRUIT

Wonderfruit festival has announced part of the lineup for its second edition, set to take place Dec 17-20. In an effort to shed its "music festival" reputation, the event's initial lineup of performers is arguably upstaged by extra-curricular announcements. Still, festival-goers can expect live performances by The Submotion Orchestra, Howie B, Dapayk Solo, The Faint, Desktop Error, Mahajamreon and Polycat, while the highlight act is experimental electronic artist Jon Hopkins x Chris Levine presenting the iy_project. More than 30 acts are said to be announced in the coming months. Other highlights include Duangrit Bunnag's The Pavilion, which is expected to be a botanical garden. The food lineup, too, is more extravagant than last year's, with those confirmed including an event called Farm to Feasts by Asia's No. 1 Restaurant Gaggan and pop-ups by some of Bangkok's finest, like the hip Knock BKK, Rocket and Peppina. www.wonderfruitfestival.com is now live, offering luxury camping options like last year. There are also more accommodating ticket options for adults, teens and families, with full passes and weekend passes available.

The Fields of Siam Country Club, Pattaya.

HIGH TIME HOK

The party collective hosts a night with music by New Zealand's Mikki Dee, plus support by resident DJs. Sep 18, 7pm. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833.

B100. BTS Surasak.

GREY GOOSE PRESENTS TGIF

The Italian DJ duo Vinai, who played at Together Festival earlier this year, headline the EDM night at the new RCA venue as part of the ongoing electro dance Friday series organized by Grey Goose. Sep 18, 8pm. Ztudio Live Hall, RCA, Chalerm Phrakiat Rama 9, 093-9399893. Free.

DARK & LOVELY GLOBAL ROOTS

DJ Thris Tian, one of the original architects of the famed underground music show Boiler Room, performs with local support from Zudrangma's DJ Maft Sai and Zoo

SINGHA LIGHT PRESENTS EMMA HEWITT & RAM LIVE IN BANGKOK

Trance Music Lovers in Thailand bring over the Australian female vocalist/DJ to Bangkok, with support from Ram, a trance DJ who's worked with the likes of Armin Van Buuren and Markus Schulz. B600 tickets through Sep 20, available at www.ticketmelon.com. Sep 25, 10pm. Live RCA Bangkok, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 086-860-0808. B700.

HENNESSY PRESENTS THE RETURN OF VINYL JUNKIE

Japanese DJ Sarasa headlines the '80s-'90s retro themed party with all-vinyl sets. Local support by DJs Toru, Nanziee and Boogie G. Expect records from the DJs' personal collections of soul, funk, disco and hip-hop. One free shot before 10pm. Sep 26, 8pm. Wine Bibber Sangria, Ekkamai Soi 2, 02-714-0709. B400. BTS Ekkamai.

GIGS

BIG MOUNTAIN

Since the initial announcement back in July, fans have been expressing their concerns with the departure of Big Mountain Music Festival #7 from the original venue at Bonanza, Khao Yai. The new location appears to be even further away from Bangkok, without many accommodation options in the vicinity for those not looking to camp overnight on-site. The drive to Kaengkrachan Country Club, Phetchaburi, takes roughly about the same time from Bangkok, and is around 40 minutes away from Hua Hin. This will be the seventh edition of the iconic annual gathering of some of the biggest acts across all genres in the Thai music scene, performing across multiple music zones. The lineup for this year is on the way, but some of the acts from last year included: Palmy, Potato, Thaitanium, Sqweez Animal, Aof Pongsak, Scrubb, Apartment Khunpa, Greasy Cafe, Joey Boy, Inspirative, and Aire. It's also scheduled for the same weekend as Wonderfruit, Dec 19-20. Tickets will still be B2,000, to be released in October.

Kaengkrachan Country Club, Phetchaburi. www.bigmountainmusicfestival.com.

Kandinsky Effect

WE INVITE YOU TO HAVE FUN

The Ekkamai establishment hosts an intimate party featuring lady DJs Pompom of The Diet Pills, Danaya from Cosmic Cafe and Praewa from Yellow Fang. Expect indie dance tunes and electro pop. Free entry before 9pm. Sep 18, 9pm. Moose Bangkok, 24 Ekkamai Soi 21, 02108-9550. B200.

KANDINSKY EFFECT

The post-modern jazz trio performs at the underground bar, bringing to the stage experimental electronica, jazz, and live improvisation.

Pre-sale tickets available at book@

Triggs & The Longest Day

maggiechoos.com. Sep 24, 9pm.

Maggie Choo's, underground/F, Hotel Novotel Bangkok Fenix Silom, 320 Silom Rd., 091-772-2144. B500.

BTS Surasak.

DOOD X KNACK

Live indie music and DJ sets by DJ Momento', Triggs and the Longest Day, Harigeum Zaboy, Krit Morton and Kova O'Sarin at the Knack Market weekend by the Chao Phraya River. Sep 26-27, 6pm. The Jam Factory, 41/1-41/2 Charoen Nakorn Rd., 02-861-0950. Free.

BIG FISH BANGKOK RIVER MUSIC FESTIVAL

Different genres of world music are performed at eight luxury hotels along the river: opera and classical at Anantara Riverside, country music at Chatrium Hotel, blues and swing at Mandarin Oriental, jazz divas at Millennium Hilton, pop music at Ramada Plaza, '60s-'70s tunes at Royal Orchid Sheraton, jazz and symphony at Shangri-La and Latin music at The Peninsula. Free shuttle boats.

Through Sep 20, 6pm. Shangri-La, Charoenkrung Rd., 02-236-7777. BTS Saphan Taksin. Free.

CLASSICAL TPO 10TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT

The Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra celebrates its 10th anniversary with pianist Martin Kasik and chief conductor Gudni Emilsson in a program of Chopin, Wagner and Strauss.

Pre-concert talk 45 minutes before the show. B100 for students. Sep 18, 7pm; Sep 19, 4pm. Prince Mahidol Hall, Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd. B300-500 from Thaiticketmajor.

STONE FREE MUSIC FEST

The organizers of Thailand's only completely independent music festival have announced a comeback this year, after a short break last year. This will be the fourth edition of the fest, scheduled for Dec 11-13 at Khao Wong, Saraburi. If you're a fan of Psych-Out Music Fest, Keep On The Grass Folk Music Fest or even Noise Market, here's one not to miss. Though there's no word yet on which artists will be taking to the grassy, open-air stage or ticket prices, past experience should tell you to expect plenty of artists from the Panda Records and Smallroom stables (everyone from Stylish Nonsense and Yellow Fang to The Sticky Rice and Abstraction XL), with entrance starting at around B1,000. Fans can also vote for six bands that they want to see perform at the fest at fb.com/StoneFreeMusicFestival.

PIANO RECITAL BY MICHAEL NOBLE

Khao Wong, Saraburi Province.

Prince Mahidol Hall

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A concert by D&M Music Studio, in collaboration with Yamaha Ratchadapisek Music School, bringing over the young American pianist for a solo show, performing a program of Debussy, Brahms, Capriccio, Rzewski and Prokofiev. Tickets available at the door and 081-682-8000. Sep 20, 4pm.

Siam Ratchada Auditorium, U/F, Fortune Town, New Ratchadapisek Rd., 02-245-7717. B300-600.

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brought to you by

Bangkok’s casual dining guide To everyone’s favorite restaurants.

Best Pizza, Best Mexican, Best Burgers, Best Yakiniku and much more.

www.bkmagazine.com/besteats Free PDF Guide Available

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CONCERTS

Cool winter music festivals coming up

7:30pm. The Rock Pub, Hollywood Street, 93/26-28 Phaya Thai Rd., 02-251-9980, 086-977-0621. B1,0001,200. BTS Ratchathewi.

BLACK VALENTINE CONCERT

Yellow Fang

BBA CHARITY CONCERT #9: MISSION I'M PAWSIBLE

CAT EXPO

Cat Radio's biggest annual music festival will take place on Nov 14-15. Dubbed "Cat Expopo Tamus," the fest will feature a huge list of bands and artists across all indie record labels at Wonder World Fun Park. Over half of the full lineup has been announced, with highlights including Goose, Polycat, Greasy Cafe, Hugo, Proud, Ornaree, The Kidnappers, Inspirative, Monomania, Gym and Swim, The Parkinson, Slur, Harigeum Zaboy, The Jukks, Yellow Fang and Young Man and the Sea. Veteran acts like Flure, Thaitanium, Paradox, Crescendo and Apartment Khun Pa will also take the stage. There will also be lots of stalls selling Thai records and handmade products, plus free screenings, in addition to the four music stages.

“Early cat” tickets are B600, available for sale on Oct 1-3. B1,200 thereafter at 7-Eleven Convenience Stores. More updates at www.fb.com/thisiscatradio.

Wonder World Fun Park, 41 Kanchanaphisek Rd.

The annual charity concert by the students of Thammasat Business School, featuring live performances by Singto Numchok, Tu Poptorn, The Voice Thailand finalist Image Suthita, Getsunova and Jetset'er. Profits from ticket sales, food and beverages go towards non-profit organization Home4Animals, which looks after stranded and disabled animals. Tickets available at www. fb.com/bbacharityconcert. Sep 19, 6pm. Thammasat University (Tha Phra Chan Campus), 12 Phra Chan Rd., 02-613-3333. B500-800.

VITAMILK PRESENTS STAMP

After two years, The Voice Thailand coach and singer-songwriter behind hits like "Kwarm Kid" and "Khon Tee Khun Gor Roo Wa Krai," makes a comeback with a full-scale, three-hour concert under the concept "lightning storm." Sep 19, 7pm. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4455. B1,000-3,500.

ANTI-FLAG LIVE IN BANGKOK 2015

The American punk rock band's first headline show in Bangkok, with local support from Jimmy Revolt. Known for their political activism, the band released their ninth studio album, titled American Spring, in May. Tickets available at the venue and ticketmelon.com. Sep 20,

A concert for the lonely and broken-hearted, bringing together male artists known for their sad love songs like Portrait, Boy Trai, Tattoo Colour, Q Flure, Pu from Blackhead and Yokee Playboy. Sep 26, 5pm. Jarun Buroparat Sport Field, Rama 9 Rd. B750 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Phetchaburi.

LOVE YOU TILL I DIE

A tribute concert for the late Singha Sqweeze Animal, organized by Spicy Disc and featuring Apartment Khun Pa, Slur, Yellow Fang, Mild, Lomosonic and Flure, to name a few. Sep 26, 5pm. Voice Space, BBD Building, 197 Viphavadi Rangsit, 02-261-3883. B1,000 from Thaiticketmajor.

CONCERT PLENG PRAPAS 2

A concert dedicated to the famed songwriter Prapas Cholsaranont, the mastermind behind some of the greatest Thai ballads. Performing artists include: Pod Moderndog, Stamp, Be Crescendo and many more. Oct 9, 7:30pm; Oct 10, 2pm; Oct 11, 2pm, 7:30pm. Siam Pikanet Theater, 7/F, Siam Square One, Rama 1 Rd. B1,500-3,800 from Thaiticketmajor. BTS Siam.

90S CONCERT FIRST ALBUM

A concert for the '90s generation, presenting nostalgic tunes by the likes of Moderndog, Pang Nakarin, P.O.P., Friday, Ford and Friends, Koh Mr. Saxman, Tea for Three and many more. Oct 10, 6pm. Thunder Dome, 99 Popular Rd., Muang Thong Thani. 02-504-5050. B1,3001,600 from Thaiticketmajor.

STAGE NOISE MARKET

As if you needed another excuse to visit the Old Town, the fifth edition of the uber-popular Noise Market returns to the lawns of Museum Siam on Rattanakosin Island on the weekend of Nov 21-22. As per usual, expect all sorts of handmade, arts and crafts stalls, home decor products, cassette and vinyl stores, pop-up book shops and food and drink. There will also be film screenings as part of Bangkok Underground Film Festival throughout the day in the open-air amphitheater. Last year saw some pretty awesome live performances at the arty music fest from Chladni Chandi, Zweedz n' Roll, Plastic Section and Polycat, so we're excited to see this year's lineup, especially when the organizers are promising even longer stage times. Interested vendors and artists can also apply for a spot now at noisemarketfest@gmail.com.

WHY NOT

Experience European Heritage Days

European Heritage Days, launched in France back in 1984, offers opportunities for visitors to enter historic buildings and monuments that are usually not opened to the public. Bringing over the tradition to Thailand, the theme this year is “Heritage of the 21st Century, A History of Future.” On this special occasion, visitors will get to access the residence of the French ambassador to Thailand and the embassy’s chancery, open for public visit this Sep 20, from 10am-4pm.

They’ll also be treated to an exclusive preview of “The Forest,” commissioned to French contemporary artist Jacques Vieille, and get to visit the Extra Muros 2 exhibition by the Institute Francais, featuring short films about French architecture in the 21st century, as well as the different construction stages of the French Embassy’s chancery. There will also be an exhibition titled 60 Solutions to Climate Change, showing 21 images that highlight different ways to tackle climate change, taken by the aerial photographer Yann Arthus-Bertrand.

35 Charoenkrung Soi 36, 02-657-5100.

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Novosibirsk Ballet Company

dance SLEEPING BEAUTY ON ICE

The Imperial Stars, who've performed some of the most iconic shows on ice like Swan Lake, Cinderella and The Nutcracker, will take the Bangkok stage as part of the 17th International Festival of Dance and Music, bringing over 26 worldclass, award-winning ice-skaters from around the world. 2:30pm rounds on Sep 19-20. Sep 18-20, 7:30pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456.

B800-3,000 from Thaiticketmajor.

MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

IMAGES - 20 YEARS

Spain's Ballet Flamenco De Andalucia takes the stage as part of Bangkok's 17th International Festival of Dance and Music. The show is choreographed by award-winning artist Rafael Carrasco and won the Giraldillo award from the Bienal de Flamenco de Sevilla back in 2014.

Sponsored by the Spanish Embassy.

Sep 21, 7:30pm. B800-3,000 from Thaiticketmajor.

SWAN LAKE

Russia's Novosibirsk Ballet company performs its own version of Tchaikovsky's famous piece, based on the choreography of Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov. Sep 24-25, 7:30pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456.

B1,200-4,000 from Thaiticketmajor.

MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

GALA CLASSICAL CONCERT

Leading soloists of the Novosibirsk Ballet Theatre perform three acts: the grand pas from Paquita ; the pas d'esclave from Le Corsaire, the "Adagio of Spartacus and Phygia" from Spartacus, pas de deux from The Flames of Paris, The Dying Swan and Don Quixote; and an act from Carmen. Sep 26, 7:30pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456. B1,200-4,000 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

The Imperial Stars

musicals DOGTOOTH

A musical about a family whose lives revolve around illogical rules and limitations to prevent them from outside danger. Part of Take Off Festival 2015. B350 for ticket reservations at goo.gl/YZ2xlV. Through Sep 20, 8pm. Thong Lor Art Space, 58/14-15 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). B400.

theater WHAAM! (THE BRIEF HISTORY OF UNKNOWN ASTRONAUT)

SplashingTheatre Company presents a play about a Thai astronaut who travels the universe with his deceased mother, sister and lover. Part of the 8th Performing Arts Festival

by Pridi Banomyong Institute. No performances on Wednesday, Sep 23. Ticket reservations at 062-6439062 or www.fb.com/splashingtheatre. B290 early bird tickets through Sep 6. Sep 18-28, 8pm. Crescent Moon Space, 65/1 Thonglor Rd., 02-3813860. B450. BTS Thong Lo.

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ART

Opening Exhibitions

BAO BAO ISSEY MIYAKE DISTORTION

BLOOD, SWEAT & RUST

An exhibition for fans of the futuristic designer's bags, created in collaboration between Issey Miyake and N&RFoldings.

Thailand is the only country outside of Japan to hold this exhibition.

Dates: Sep 24-27

Thai artist Sarawut Thaichuai presents a limited collection of his paintings that are 35-50 years old, representing the erosion of the lives of the working class.

Dates: Opens Sep 19 at 6pm. Through Oct 20

1/F, Event Space, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02690-1000. BTS Siam

Sathorn Soi 11. 085-251-6672. BTS Chong Nonsi

MORE BEAUTY

TRACES A PART (ASIDE THE TRACKS)

A solo exhibition by Suriwan Sutham, teacher of art education at Bansomdejchaophraya Rajaphat University, who portrays modern women's obsession with beautification through oil on canvas.

Dates: Sep 22-Nov 8

Thirty-six artworks by French photographer Pascal Quennehen, taken from his travels across continents, which are then sewn onto selected objects that represent reconstructed memories.

Dates: Opens Sep 24 at 6pm. Through Oct 28

DOB Hualamphong Gallery, 4/F, DOB Building, 318 Rama 4 Rd., 02-237-5592/4.

Golden Tortoise Gallery, 100 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-662-5600.

TSU-NA-GA-RI

WALLPAPER*HANDMADE EXHIBITION 2015

A joint exhibition by Rika S. and Intani T., who present two different styles of work inspired by their favorite poets. The title translates to link/bond/connection in Japanese.

Dates: Opens Sep 19 at 7pm. Through Nov 1.

Wallpaper*Thai Edition magazine hosts a special exhibition, in collaboration with Bombay Sapphire, featuring the work of 27 artists, designers and companies including 56th Studio, Vick's Weekend, Harnn, Moleskine and many more.

Dates: Opens Sep 24 at 6pm. Designs of the Year awards to be presented to the 2014 and 2015 winners. Through Sep 30

Ink & Lion Cafe, 1/7 Ekkamai Soi 2, 02-002-6874.

Naiipa Art Complex, 46 Sukhumvit Rd. BTS Phra Khanong

MARKETS

Artbox Signature

SOMART ANNUAL SALE

The massive annual sale of the Instagram market organizer, featuring 50 top social media brands, some 200 online shops and 30 celebrity-owned brands. Sep 19-20, 12pm. Bangkok Convention Center at CentralPlaza Ladprao, 5/F, Central Ladprao, 1695 Paholyothin Rd. Free. MRT Phahon Yothin.

ARTBOX SIGNATURE CHAPTER 4

Bangkok's favorite outdoor market continues with its fourth edition in a new venue, taking over the parking lot of EZ Park with creative food, drinks and fashion products,

plus live music. Sep 18-20, 3pm. Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, 60 New Ratchadapisek Rd., 02-229-3000.

Free. MRT Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre.

SILOM FOLKS MARKET

A new weekday market project brings fashion and food stalls by the likes of Plernwan Panich, House of Crepe and Chaoguay Khunya to the activity zone of the outdoor Silom mall. Sep 30-Oct 2, 10am. Baan Silom, The Heritage Baan Silom, Silom Soi 19, 0863401821. Free.

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now FREEWILL ASTROLOGY by Rob Brezsny

FILM Opening

VIRGO (Aug 23-Sep 22): Some people express pride in gross ways. When you hear their overbearing brags, you know it’s a sign that they are not really confident in themselves. In the coming weeks, I expect you to express a more lovable kind of self-glorification. It won’t be arrogant, but will instead be measured. If you swagger a bit, you will do it with humor, not narcissism. Thank you in advance for your service to humanity. The world needs more of this benign kind of egotism.

MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS (USA)

BURYING THE EX (USA)

Action. In this third instalment of the fantasy franchise, Thomas (Dylan O’Brien) and his fellow Gliders must escape the barren desert and uncover the truth about a virus that threatens to kill humanity. Sep 17

Comedy/Horror. Max (Anton Yelchin) finds it extraordinarily difficult to break up with his long-term girlfriend (Ashley Greene) after she rises from the dead wanting to maintain their relationship forever. Sep 17 MAEBIA (THAI)

Drama. Businessman Chanachol (Shahkrit Yamnam) travels to Suphanburi where he’s drawn to a beautiful, seemingly traditional-minded woman named Mekhala (Karnpitcha Ketmanee), but all is not as it appears. Sep 17

SPECIAL SCREENING Elle Men Film Festival Following Elle Fashion Week (Sep 3-6), the fashion magazine’s brother brand, Elle Men Thailand, is hosting its own event, Elle Men Film Festival, under the theme (18+) Passage to the Real Manhood. The lineup includes screenings of six movies from six different countries selected by eight veteran filmmakers, producers and critics, including Yuthana Boonorm, Pen-Ek Ratanaruang, Kong Rithdee and Jitsing Somboon. Special screenings are priced at B150-200 at Quartier Cineart (4/F, Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-261-0199.

BTS Phrom Phong) during Sep 24-30.

White God

The Tribe

WHITE GOD (HUNGARY, 2014)

The story of Ami, a girl who sets out to find her beloved dog Hargen after he is set free by Ami’s father. (Sep 24, 7:30pm; Sep 27, 3pm; Sep 30, 9pm) THE TRIBE (UKRAINE, 2014)

A heart-wrenching silent film about life and violence inside a special school for the deaf. Audiences under 20 are prohibited.

(Sep 25, 7:30pm; Sep 26, 5:30pm) THE SALT OF THE EARTH (FRENCH, 2014)

French documentary revealing the story behind the images of Sebastiao Salgado, the leading Brazilian documentary photographer. (Sep 26, 3pm; Sep 28, 7pm)

Armi Alive!

NYMPHOMANIAC VOLUME I (DENMARK, 2013)

Lars von Trier’s controversial erotic story about a lady who’s found beaten and recalls her erotic past as she recovers. (Sep 27, 5:30pm; Sep 28, 9pm) NYMPHOMANIAC VOLUME II (DENMARK, 2013)

The second part of Lars von Trier’s film continues the story of sex-addicted Joe and the man who saved her. Audiences under 20 are prohibited. (Sep 27, 8pm; Sep 29, 7:30pm)

LIBRA (Sep 23-Oct 22): The rooster is your power animal. Be like him. Scrutinize the horizon for the metaphorical dawn, and be ready to herald its appearance with a triumphant wake-up call. On the other hand, the rooster is also your affliction animal. Don’t be like him. I would hate for you to imitate the way he handles himself in a fight, which is to keep fussing far beyond the point when he should let it all go. In conclusion, act like a rooster but also don’t act like a rooster.

SCORPIO (Oct 23-Nov 21): Since you seem to enjoy making life so complicated for yourself, you may be glad to learn that the current astrological omens favor that development. My reading suggests that you’re about to dive deep into rich mysteries that could drive you half-crazy. I suspect that you will be agitated by your encounters with ecstatic torment. Bon voyage! Soon I expect to see miniature violet bonfires gleaming in your bedroom eyes and unprecedented words of wild wisdom spilling from your smart mouth.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22-Dec 21): The Adamites were devotees of an ancient Christian sect that practiced sacred nudism. One of their central premises: How could anyone possibly know God while wearing clothes? I think you might find value in it during the coming weeks. Your erotic yearnings will be rising to a crescendo at the same time. You will have the chance to explore states where horniness and holiness overlap. Lusty prayers? Reverent sex?

Ecstatic illumination?

CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 19): One of your key themes in the coming weeks is “grace.” I suggest that you cultivate it and treasure it. To prepare for this, study all of the meanings of “grace” below. At least two of them should be an active part of your life. 1. Elegance or beauty of form, movement, or proportion. 2. Favor or goodwill; a disposition to be generous or helpful. 3. Mercy, forgiveness, charity.

4. A temporary exemption or immunity; a reprieve.

5. A sense of fitness or propriety. 6. A prayer of blessing or thanks said before a meal. 7. An unmerited divine gift offered out of love.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20-Feb 18): Be good, but not necessarily well-behaved. Be extra exuberant and free, but not irresponsible. Why? Well, you have more-orless finished paying off one of your karmic debts.

You have conquered a twist from your past that had been sapping your mojo. You have earned a respite from some of the more boring aspects of reality. And so now you have a mandate to gather up the intelligent pleasure you missed when you were acting like a beast of burden.

PISCES (Feb 19-Mar 20): “I am the least difficult of men. All I want is boundless love.” That’s the mantra that Frank O’Hara intoned in his poem “Meditations in an Emergency,” and now I’m inviting you to adopt a modified version of it. Here’s how I would change it for your use in the coming months: “I am the least difficult of passion artists. All I want is to give and receive boundless, healthy, interesting love.” To be frank, I don’t think O’Hara’s innocent declaration will work for you. You really do need to add my recommended nuances in order to ripen your soul’s code.

ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 19): I won’t go so far as to say that you are surrounded by unhinged maniacs whose incoherence is matched only by their self-delusion. That would be too extreme. But I do suspect that at least some of the characters in the game you’re playing are not operating at their full potential. For now, it’s best not to demand that they act with more grace. The wiser strategy might be to avoid being swept up in their agitation as you take good care of yourself. If you are patient, I bet you will eventually get a chance to work your magic.

TAURUS (Apr 20-May 20): Many of the heroes in fairy tales survive because of the magical gifts they are given. Benefactors show up to provide them with marvels—a spinning wheel that can weave a cloak of invisibility, perhaps, or winged shoes that give them the power of flight, or a charmed cauldron that brews a healing potion. But there is an important caveat. The heroes rarely receive their boons out of sheer luck. They have previously performed kind deeds in order to earn the right to be blessed. According to my analysis, Taurus, the coming weeks will be prime time for you to make yourself worthy of gifts you will need later on.

GEMINI (May 21-Jun 20): We humans need nourishing stories almost as much as we require healthy food, clean air, pure water, and authentic love.

And yet many of us get far less than our minimum daily requirement. Instead, we are barraged with nihilistic narratives. If we want a break from that onslaught, our main other choices are sentimental fantasies. That’s the bad news. But here’s the good news: Now is a favorable time for you to seek remedies for this problem. That’s why I’m urging you to hunt down redemptive chronicles that furnish your soul with gritty delight. Find parables that embolden your lust for life.

CANCER (Jun 21-Jul 22): Now is an excellent time to close the gap between the Real You and the image of yourself that you display to the world. I know of two ways to accomplish this. You can tinker with the Real You so that it’s more like the image you display. Or else you can change the image you display so that it is a more accurate rendition of the Real You. Both strategies may be effective. However you go about it, I suggest you make it your goal to shrink the amount of pretending you do.

LEO (Jul 23-Aug 22): Born under the sign of Leo, Marcel Duchamp was an influential artist whose early work prefigured surrealism. In 1917, he submitted an unusual piece to a group exhibition in New York. It was a plain old porcelain urinal, but he titled it Fountain, and insisted it was a genuine work of art. I am putting my seal of approval on the messy melodrama you are in the process of managing. Henceforth, this melodrama shall also be known as a work of art, and its title will be “Purification.” If you finish the job with panache, it will forevermore qualify as a soul-jiggling masterpiece.

Films are screened with English and Thai subtitles.

ARMI ALIVE! (FINLAND, 2015)

The biographical story of Armi Ratia, the founder and designer of Marimekko. (Sep 26, 8pm; Sep, 7pm)

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