BK Magazine 730 MArch16, 2018

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BK MAGAZINE NO. 730 FRIDAY, MARCH 16, 2018. www.bkmagazine.com

Bangkok’s best new coffee shops

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Pick up your free copy of BK Magazine on Mar 23 to discover Bangkok’s 100 best restaurants as decided by an independent panel of local foodies.

Find it at over 350 venues citywide (bkmagazine.com/distribution) or download your free PDF copy from Mar 23 onwards at bkmagazine.com/bktoptables

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page 3 6 cover story

Brewing Up a Storm

What We’ve Learned

4 upfront

11 avenue

#Metoo

All Ears

8 escapes

13 blends

Shades of Chiang Mai

Tonic Taste Test

16 bites

17 BK Now

Restaurant Reviews

Concert Planner

Who's in charge?

Managing Director & Publisher Andrew Hiransomboon Managing Editor Oliver Irvine Digital Director / Deputy Editor Carl Dixon Subeditor Mai Nardone Digital Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Digital Content Assistant Pakchira Bunphol Writers Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj, Dhipkawee Sriyananda Selley Junior Writers Kankanok Wichiantanon, Neon Boonyadhammakul Art Director Vatanya Bongkotkarn Production Supervisor Komkrit Klinkaeo Graphic Designers Anunya Chobnitas, Wirankan Saiyasombut Photographer Poonsawat Suttama Video Content Manager Chanon Wongsatayanont Video Designer Saranya Laowtrakul Videographer Nattapol Srisukh Junior Video Editor Pattanagorn Adirekkiat

Where to find us!

The Asia City Media Group

Advertising Director Wanida Akeapichai Sales Managers Tipkritta Chiraporncharas, Orajira Sukkasem Senior Sales Associates Tassanee Mahamad, Nattaya Bovornsettanon, Orakarn Laohakanjanasiri

Finance Manager Supaporn Bangmoung Assistant Finance Manager Anchalee Limkhamduang Senior Accountant Maneeya Kanthongdang Accountant Manita Bangmoung Admin Executive Yaovaluck Srisermsri Contributors Kathy MacLeod

Junior Marketing Executive Narabhutr Thaemsiri ASIA CITY STUDIO Managing Editor Dietrich Neu Associate Editor Sureepak Janyapat Senior Project Manager Chayanap Tongdadas Senior Developer Passzarkorn Youthasoontorn, Wasan Wangrach Writer-Translator Tripop Leelasestaporn Junior Branded Content Writer Chakariya Cheewatara SOIMILK Editor Nathapong Suppavatee Senior Writer Rujiyatorn Choksiriwan Writer Theerada Moonsiri Brand Manager Onwara Sittirug Sales Associates Prawpraew Pairohg, Kornkanok Sriwaranant

Bangkok Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. 9/F, Sathorn Nakorn Tower 100 North Sathorn Rd., Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Tel: 02-624-9696 Fax: 02-237-5656 Email: bkmagazine@asia-city.co.th

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Asia City Media Group Chief Executive Officer Greg Duncan (gduncan@asiacity.net) Director Gretchen Worth (gworth@asia-city.co.th)

Singapore Asia City Publishing Pte. Ltd. Block 211 Henderson Rd. #07-02 Henderson Industrial Park Singapore 159552 Tel: 65-6323-2512 Fax: 65-6323-2779 Email: contact@asia-city.com.sg

That IHOP now has bacon. Finally.

After nearly nine months of sad pork-free pancake stacks, the American breakfast chain is only now bringing its A-game to Bangkok. Steer clear of the Siam Paragon basement branch and instead head up to the mall’s fourth floor for the full IHOP breakfast sampler (B270): fried eggs, pancakes, hash browns, ham steak and bacon. Still, if you’ll believe the internet naysayers, the Bangkok version is a big, big downgrade on the belt-busting US model.

That Bad Genius cleaned up at the Suphannahong Awards The Nattawut Poonpiriya-directed thriller about a highschool math whiz who helps wealthy students cheat on their exams took home a whopping 12 awards at the Thai film industry’s night of nights, including best picture, director, lead actor and lead actress. The flick, which made B103 million at the local box office and even hits screens from Singapore to Taipei, didn’t strike quite a chord among our writers, only managing a back-handed Bad Ending Award in the BK Film Awards 2018—read why at goo.gl/NfUEz1.

That Thailand’s biggest emo-rock band will hold a black panther tribute concert Veteran screamo five-piece Retrospect, not known for bold political statements, are throwing their considerable weight (two million Facebook fans and counting) behind a concert calling for justice in the infamous black panther case involving Ital-Thai president Premchai Karnasuta. To get the point across, the band has put a call out for art submissions (#artofthepanther) that’ll be beamed from the stage at Live Park Rama 9 on Apr 21. Profits on the night will go to the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, too.

That Bangkok’s about to host the Asian Organic Gourmet Festival To top off a massive month of foodie events, 137 Pillars Suites & Residences (Sukhumvit Soi 39) will stage four days dedicated to food, wine and wellness from Mar 22-25. After bouncing between Chiang Mai and Luang Prabang, this festival’s fourth edition will showcase organic gala dinners (from B4,200) and cooking demos (B1,900) from local and international chefs, a finale brunch buffet (B2,900) as well as a daily farmers’ market with all the good stuff. See www.137PillarsHotels.com.

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 ©2016 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, March 16, 2018

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upfront HOT OR NOT

Hot: Kath Khangpiboon

Not: Thammasat

In 2015, Thammasat University blazed a trail for equality by employing transgender academic Kath Khangpiboon as a lecturer. Yay Thammasat! Yay progress!

Actually, no. They fired her not long after for posting an Instagram photo of a lipstick shaped like a penis. Kath took them to court, and discovered on Mar 8 that she’d won. She’ll be back and teaching on the Lampang campus by May.

INTERVIEW

Hot: Past

Not: Present

Two things we learned from the Aoon Ai Ruk event and mega-smash lakorn, Booppesanivat: 1) ancient Thais wore nothing but nylon blouses made out of 1980s net curtains; 2) they liked to call each other aor jao a lot. This combination has had a massive effect on a certain sub-sect of Bangkok society last spotted whistling violently on the corner of Silom and Rama 4.

Hot: Leopards

Not: Space invaders

Bangkok has a long and loving relationship with guerilla street art. First there was the Space Invaders that descended on overpasses all across the city. Then there was the games of Minesweeper that warned us all of explosive paving slabs. Now it’s leopards, which are turning up on walls from Lumphini to Lad Phrao as a reminder that, in this this town, nothing ever changes.

Hot: People in gastronomy

Not: Women in gastronomy

Bangkok’s debut Women in Gastronomy event was a success. People turned up en masse to hear the biggest female names in the culinary world talk at the Sukhothai hotel, and even paid B3,500 for the privilege. But the news of the evening wasn’t so much about women in top chef positions as why we still feel the need to celebrate that as something exceptional.

THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

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In March of 2017, Thararat “Noon” Panya 22, then a third-year law student at Thammasat University, wanted to start a conversation about Thailand’s rape culture.

She went public with her story of sexual assault, the media debate that followed saw the whole spectrum of public opinion, from victim-blaming and denial to support and commendation. On Mar 7, Noon spoke at the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of Thailand as part of a panel discussing the relevance of the #MeToo movement in Thailand. Here, she shares with us her views on the pervasiveness of sexual assault in Thailand.

Can you tell us about what happened last March?

I was out drinking with friends. Everybody was drunk so we all crashed at a friend’s room, which is a pretty normal thing for uni students. There were both men and women. I woke up during the night finding my friend using his legs to lock me while he forced my hand and grabbed me.

What did you want to achieve by coming forward with your story?

Speaking about this publicly was me winning a fight inside myself. I had moments where I thought I was going to keep it all to myself. But I wanted to change the perception of victimhood and sexual assault. There could be no progress without change, and if I wanted change, I needed to speak up. Everyone has the right to speak up, to not hide their face.

What was the reception among your peers?

Good and bad. Even though I had prepared myself for it, I didn’t expect to create this much of a storm. It made me realize that our society has never properly spoken about this before.

Do you think anything has changed since then?

People have started to speak up. Maybe not about their [sexual assault] sto-

ries, but about sex. Their perspective on sexual assault has also changed.

They’re not bashing the victim or victimizing me anymore.

Why don’t more Thai women speak out about sexual assault?

On top of the society backlash and having this tra baap chee wit [scar for life], Thai women don’t realize that they are equal to men. Or even when they know their rights, they are afraid to upset the social norms that say a woman should keep quiet. Also, reporting sexual assault is difficult because there isn’t a clear process.

Do you think the laws around sexual assault in Thailand are adequate?

The law is clear about the consequences. But the process for reporting needs to be made easier. There’s no proper procedure. For example, a woman who reports assault to the police has to tell her story over and over to different officials. Why can’t they just record her testimony instead of having her relive the trauma? Thai people don’t know what to do following assault. Even in university, we’re taught how to avoid certain situations, but there’s no information on what to do in the case of sexual assault.

What do you think about the potential reach of #MeToo in Thailand?

Thailand’s public conversations and knowledge about sex are so limited.

Education doesn’t pay enough attention to sexual harassment at all.

Discussion about sex needs to come before we can have a #MeToo movement. Also, in foreign countries celebrities can champion the movement, but in Thailand celebrities are bound to behave by certain conventions.

Is television and media culture to blame for Thailand’s attitude toward sexual assault?

I don’t want to use the word “blame,” but the media definitely shapes society’s perspective. Women are brought up to understand men’s bad behavior as normal. We’re used to seeing the “evil” woman raped as punishment.

But if TV could produce good content, like lakorn [Thai soap operas] that direct our attention towards problems of these stories, then society can begin to change its perspective about sexual misconduct. The more people talk about sexual assault, the sooner we can acknowledge the problem and try to find solutions. Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj and Mai Nardone

by Kathy MacLeod (IG: @kathy_macleod)

BK Magazine Friday, March 16, 2018

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cover story

Bubbling Over

The past 12 months have given us BNK48, leopard-gate, and a whole bunch of new coffee shops. Here are the only places worth wasting a lazy Sunday over. By BK Staff In-house-roasted beans

SUKHUMVIT 4th Floor Drip Bar

Some of the greenest city views of any cafe in town paired with slow-brew coffee (from B150), tea (from B120) and more creative concoctions like Chor Ginnaree (black coffee with roselle and ginger ale, B180), Toob-Tub (milk coffee with peanut chocolate and milk toffee, B180) and Mongkhud Sumala (white tea, jasmine, aloe vera and pink orange, B180).

4/F, Baker Gonna Bake Cafe, Sukhumvit Soi 26, 099-591-9142. Open Thu-Sun 10am-6pm, Tue 10am-6pm

Coffeeas

Coffee roaster Coffeas has expanded to a fulltime cafe, complete with a coffee school.

Run by certified Q Grader and SCAA-certified instructor Nisakorn Sinsawat, the cafe aims to showcase specialty Thai coffee through rotating house-roasted beans, mainly from Chiang Rai. Here, she only serves single origins (from B80 for espresso and B120 for drip coffee).

G/F, Green Connect, Sukhumvit Soi 31, 081-9230499. Open Mon-Sat 11am-5pm

Halo

This teeny-tiny cafe is Japanese minimalism at its finest: white walls, marble bar, blondwood accents. There’s the full range of coffee-making paraphernalia on show, of course.

The two owners source rotating beans from

l

Real food

l

Sweet things

l

Nitro

around the world to serve as cold brew or filter coffee (B80). For the full taste of Japan, order the Matzuoka (B60), a creamy iced matcha latte from Shizuoka.

courtesy of Ceresia Coffee Roasters, with espresso-based coffee starting at B80. More leftfieldcreations include the espresso tonic (B150) with a hint of lemon.

32/1 Soi Udomsuk, Sutthisarn Rd., 095-881-3618.

Open daily 7am-7:30pm

Warehouse 30, Charoenkrung Soi 30, 081-639-0802.

Open daily 11am-9pm

A Stimulant by Sarnies

As.is

The people behind modern Australian restaurant Freebird have brought one of Singapore’s hippest coffee roasters to the beautiful garden at Thai restaurant Kram, tucked away down the back alleys off Phrom Phong. Taking over two shipping containers separated by a metal staircase, Sarnies is split into a coffee roasting zone with gigantic bags of coffee beans to one side, and a small, stylishly minimalist cafe space to the other. This cafe puts a lot of stock in perfecting its roast profiles, highlighting beans sourced globally in places such as Brazil, El Salvador, Kenya, Ethiopia and Costa Rica, as well as locally.

Soi Phopmit, Sukhumvit Soi 39, Open Wed-Sun 9am-5pm

CHAROENKRUNG/ OLD TOWN 103 Bed & Brews

The reason why hipsters are tripping over one another on a corner of Chinatown's Soi Nana is this perfectly sun-lit, pattern-tile-floored little cafe. The row of steampunk taps pour craft beers, while cold brew comes in creative infusions like kumquat (B100)—damn that makes for good Instagram photos.

103 Soi Nana, Maitri Chit Rd., 02-090-1103. Open daily 9am-10pm

A Coffee Roaster by Library

Warehouse 30, Charoenkrung's art and design complex, is putting its coffee in the hands of serial Bangkok cafe openers Li-bra-ry, who now have six spaces across town. The espresso machine here turns out a light, Thai-Brazil roast

This hip Chinatown coffee shop goes for an industrial loft look with brickwork and blackened metal.

At As.is, owner Teerajit Luanpitpong (Brave Roasters alumni, Hiphipe hat brand designer) serves coffee (from B75 for espresso) made from Chiang Mai beans alongside a few food items and alternative drinks like fruit-infused affogato (B90) and strawberry cream cheese shake (B90).

45 Rama 4 Rd., 085-143-5215. Open Tue-Wed 10am-9pm; Fri 10am-10pm; Sat 10am-8pm; Sun 10:30am-6pm

A Coffee Roaster by Library

BIY Coffee Bar

With its name standing for “Brew It Yourself,” this is a showroom-slash-cafe offshoot of online coffee equipment shop Beans Here.

Workshops from self-trained roaster and co-owner Sirichai “So” Sakornvisava start at an affordable B800/person for a cupping tasting event or around B2,000/person for brewing and roasting classes. Otherwise, drop by for a cup of joe at B100 for Thai beans from places like Suan Sodchuen in Ranong or Mae Kampong in Chiang Mai, or B120 for imported beans and blends.

Room 2B, 2/F, Prime Station Hotel, 23/34 Tri Mit Rd., 084-514-2914. Open Thu-Sun 10:30am-6:30pm

Gallery Drip Cafe

Chata

From a gorgeous glasshouse extension to Yaowarat’s colonial-style Baan2459 hotel, Chata serves serious coffee in a setting swathed in natural light. Everything is overseen

by Nopphadon Jantranapaporn, who’s built a name for his monthly latte art classes at School Cafe in Bangkhen, while

4th Floor Drip Bar

102 Bed & Brews

IG Cafe-hoppers You Should Follow

@cafeteller (62.1K)

@afotonov (20.8K)

@oatkomkrich (19.4K)

@keerisnith (23.3K)

@coundsheck (13.9K)

“Because good cafes deserve a shout out” is their motto; intricately curated brunch spreads is their game.

This caffeine addict behind Flair coffee bar’s obsession takes her from Chiang Rai to Korat to New Zealand in search of cafe inspiration.

Often the first on the scene of new openings, this foodie photographer (and lover of slow-bar coffee) has a knack for making Bangkok appear incredibly chic.

A globe-trotting cafe- and bar-hopper whose photos you’ll be amazed to find are all shot on Galaxy Note 8.

This minimalist account has an eye for the art in everyday life.

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cover story beans come from all over—try the house-blend (Thai, Indonesian, Ethiopian and Brazilian) dressed up with lime and bubbly cola in the Colapresso (B140) or play it simple with pour-over (B120).

ing menu offers an ever-changing array of savory dishes, while espresso coffee starts at B88. Nitro-coffee specialist Bhava Cafe has moved from its original location in Silom to pour their self-roasted coffee (B88) from the tap here, too.

98 Phatsai Rd., 096-154-5049. Open Tue-Sun 7am-3pm

Sathorn Soi 11, Yaek 5, 086-577-7796. Open daily 7am-9pm

Gallery Drip Coffee

Coffee Craftsman

Gallery Drip, the iconic cafe and roaster at BACC, has branched out to Chinatown. Playfully named after its Wangburapa neighborhood, Gallery Drip Wangbrewpa stays honest to the cafe’s drip-coffee-only philosophy, serving single origin beans from both Thailand and abroad (from B70/cup).

Set in a 70-year-old wooden house dating back to the Rama 7 era, this Yen Akat neighborhood favorite wows you from first glance.

The cafe highlights beans by local micro roasters, with two house signature blends: Artisan (Thai, Colombia and Guatemala) and Craftsman (Thai, Brazil and Ethiopia). The menu features various avo-toast options along with some solid pizza (get the chorizo and portabello mushroom).

G/F, Cacha Bed Heritage Hostel, 156 Maha Chai Rd., 081-917-2131. Open Tue-Sun 9am-7pm

30 Yen Akat Rd., 02-249- 0180. Open daily 7am-7pm

Nana Coffee Roaster

Eureka Nitro

This newcomer is semi-hidden in a threestory shop-house that resembles a 19th-century explorer’s workshop, complete with a spiral staircase that takes you to where award-winning barista Warong Chalanuchpong serves up his signature drinks.

Order a Le Boisson De Kanda (espresso, tea and sparkling rose lemonade topped with milk foam, B250) before going up again to the rooftop, where by elbowing aside the many ferns you’ll uncover a seating nook.

31-33 Soi Nana, 089-775-0006. Open Thu-Sun 11am-7pm; Mon 11am-7pm

Tales

Khaosan’s new train-themed hostel and cafe is more than a photo opp. The five-story shophouse has been given a streamlined makeover to resemble a futuristic train carriage. On the ground floor, pull up a high stool at the coffee bar which puts a smooth medium-roast blend from the local Roast Runner roaster to use in a range of hot and iced lattes (B110).

88 Chakrabongse Rd., 097-090-6241. Open daily 10am-6pm

SATHORN/SILOM

Sathorn’s new nitro cafe goes well beyond your average nitrogen-infused coffee. You can still get a nice and frothy nitro cold brew (B90), but the adventurous will want to try the salted egg latte (B120), which combines cold brew with homemade salted egg syrup and peanut butter syrup. Another highlight from the cafe’s six taps is the durian iced tea (B120), which comes in layers of macadamia gelato, Thai tea with durian syrup and freeze-dried durian powder on top.

14/6 Sathorn Soi 2, Sathorn Rd., 087-429-6465.

Open daily 8am-8pm

LADPRAO/ PHAHOLYOTHIN Kiew Kai Ga

Set in a glasshouse replete with tropical touches, Kiaw Kai Ga is a new reason to brave the congested traffic of Ladphrao. The hanging ferns, banana-leaf wallpaper and vintage parquet floors are complemented by rustic Thai food from all around the country. Chef Nathawut Nantakaem (formerly of The Never Ending Summer) serves the likes of gaeng hang lay (Northern Thai curry, B220), made from a recipe picked up in Phrae, and yum pak kood (B180), made with an edible fern from the chef’s own garden in Ratchaburi.

33 Nak Niwat Rd., 095-949-9299. Open daily 7am-10pm

Red Diamond Cafe

This far-flung, rusty building comes fully equipped as a coffee roaster, cafe and school. Red Diamond doesn’t just have a roasting machine on-site, it also has its own farm in Pha Tang Chiang Rai, which is certified by CQI as a specialty coffee producer.

Along with their own beans, they also roast coffee from around the world, including varieties with 90+ scores (an extra B150-200), from Cup of Excellence competition winners (an extra B100) and even limited supplies like the Panama Esmeralda Geisha private collection (B500/cup).

733 Sangkhom Songkhro Rd., 085-044-2662.

Open Tue-Sun 11am-8pm

Some Time Blue

Roastology

Five-year-old coffee roasters Roastology have opened their first showroom and compact cafe in Sala Daeng. Here, they not only showcase house-roasted and -blended beans through espresso-based cups (from B100) and slow-bar (from B80 for Thai beans; from B150 for imported beans) but also create weird fusion stuff that sounds bad but tastes great.

We recommend the purple sweet potato latte (B130) topped with an espresso shot.

G/F, YJA Building, Sala Daeng Soi 1, 086-986-1690.

Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-5:30pm; Sat 10am-5pm; Sun noon-5pm

Ari’s award-winning drip coffee specialist Sutdrip has moved to a new space. Here, Sutida Srirungthum, winner of National Thailand Brewers Cup 2016, serves her rotating drip coffee alongside espresso-based cups and fruit blends. Do try her coffee shake, a drip coffee shaken cold with ice. Food can be ordered from former neighbor Khao Bahn restaurant still. The space itself shuns current coffee shop cliches in favor of more classic, Victorian furnishings.

Paholyothin Soi 2., 087-907-0099. Open Mon-Fri 9am-7pm; Sat 11am-9pm; Sun 11am-5pm

All Good in the Hood Popping up in an unlikely alley off Sathorn Soi 11, All Good in the Hood stands out from the surrounding shop-houses with its stylish wood-heavy decor. The all-day din-

Awesome online coffee delivery services No barista small-talk required.

Brave Roasters Ekameth Witvasutti and co. are a mainstay of foodie markets across town. Avoid all the hubbub by shopping on the roasters’ newly launched website.

Try this: The Flag Bearer blend (B410), which mixes organic beans from Jomthong in Northern Thailand and Bolaven Plateau in Laos for a particularly rich espresso, or the Ethiopian Gedeo Yirgacheffe (B680/250g) for milder tea and lychee notes. www.braveroasters.com

Left-Hand Roasters This new subscription service flies the flag for Thai small-batch coffee. Choose be tween blends, espresso roasts or single origin beans to be sent to your house every two weeks. Founder/head roaster Dustin Joseph works with family-run farms throughout Northern Thailand.

Try this: The Honey x Bourbon blend (B283/200g) for a morning Aeropress brimming with macadamia and vanilla notes. www. lefthandroasters.com

Pacamara The Chiang Mai-born coffee roaster offers an exhaustive range of beans (with arabica blends starting at just B125/250g), as well as haphazardly added tasting notes.

Try this: The Classic Blend (B 185/250g) combines Thai, Brazilian, Colombian and Indonesian beans for what they call a taste of sweet caramel and dark chocolate. www.peaberryltd.com

Phil Coffee Roasters

Red Diamond Cafe

Born in America, educated in Melbourne and coffee-schooled in Taiwan, Han sisters Jaszmine and I Wuen Wang offer delicious, beautifully packaged roasts.

Try this: The Rwanda Musasa Dukunde (B500/200g) makes a raisin and plum-inflected filter coffee. Sign up for a three-month Explorer’s Pack to taste one or two 200g single origins (B1,740/B3,480) per month. www. philscoffeecompany.com

Roots Varatt Vichitvadakan is coffee royalty, having founded both Roast and online and brickand mortar offshoot.

Red Diamond Cafe

Try this: The new single-origin from Mae Kamphong (B550/250g) boasts mild toffee notes.

Feeling lazy? They’ll also ship ready-to-drink cold brew (black or white) at B600 for six bottles. www.rootsbkk.com Tales

Some Time Blue

BK Magazine Friday, March 16, 2017

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escapes DEALS

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Frose Yogurt Cafe

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Maled

CHIANG MAI

Color Me Cool

Chiang Mai’s coffee culture has a new, monochrome look.

Whether your style’s spare, edgy or cute, there’s a hue to go with you. By Kankanok Wichiantanon

CHANGTRIXGET On Cloud 9

The Baristro Cafe

The Baristro Cafe

The color: White The vibe: This minimalist cafe takes to its all-white theme almost as a challenge (a formidable one, given the messiness of coffee), with no surface left behind. White are the walls, marbletops, deck umbrellas, fake flowers and La Marzocco espresso machine. When the sun’s up and streaming through the big windows (white-framed), the whole room’s resplendent, looking spanking new.

The cafe: The second branch of Baristro by Guu, the focus here is on quality cold brew and nitro coffee (B120), cute cakes (around B99) and bingsu shaved ice in funky flavors like pandanus (B129).

7/2 Nimmanhaemin Soi 9, 093-4944599. www.thebaristro.com

Cottontree Coffee Roasters

The color: White The vibe: The space is sparse and simple, with dark wood furniture and big stretches of wall broken up with an occasional plant. On roasting day, the scent of coffee wafts from the back room where the big drum roaster lives. This cafe has the advantage of being just beyond the main Nimman drag, meaning it’s peaceful in the way of a silent reading party (a real thing).

The cafe: The earthy cold brew is steeped overnight, and if you’re in the mood for something sweet, it comes with ginger caramel (B90), too. Don’t miss the cheesecake (B90), which is made daily and perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors.

45/38 Moo 5 Chang Phuak Rd., 086090-9014. goo.gl/NYc22i

Find Coffee

The color: White The vibe: You’d be forgiven for mistaking this coffee shop for a science lab given its glassy and glossy surfaces, boxy furniture and the clinical precision brought to bear on the drinks and baked goods. The bare-bones decor is consistent with their motto of “Quality and Fair,” here taken to mean ordinary prices and a downto-earth atmosphere.

The cafe: Find Coffee’s affordable fare doesn’t compromise on quality. The daily-baked, small-batch Cruffin (cross a croissant with a muffin) comes in three lip-smacking flavors: custard, green tea and lemon. Keeping the coffee cheap (B40-B60) has meant sourcing locally, not a bad thing given what’s available these days in the foothills of Chiang Mai. 257/22 Suthep Rd., 086-567-3330. www.fb.com/findcoffeecnx

RK cafe

The color: White The vibe: We cheated a little here: this relaxed cafe’s most striking feature is a blue truck that doubles as a countertop. Truck aside, the decor’s white in a mismatched, homey way that makes you feel like you’re hanging out in your friend’s shop-house.

The cafe: The vibe stems from the cafe’s origins as a weekend pop-up by the people behind Rubber Killer, a brand that turns old tires into backpacks, and Omnia cafe. Its success has meant it’s now open full-time, from 9am-5pm daily. The drink list is short and sweet: long black (B65), piccolo (B65), cold brew (B150) and the fancy stuff brewed in an Aeropress (B80) or a V-60 (B100).

26/1 Nimmanhaemin Rd., 082-3816644. www.fb.com/rkcafebyomnia

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Frose Yogurt Cafe

The color: Pink The vibe: Ever wondered what it’d be like to get coffee in a doll house? Here’s your chance. Surround yourself with flamingo sculptures, colorful treats in bell jars, potted flowers and neon signs with cloying, Insta-friendly declarations.

The cafe: The focus here is frozen yogurt, which comes in the fruity flavors of mango, melon, blueberry and lychee, or plain.

The real treat, though, is the offering of over 50 toppings, including fresh-cut fruit, gummies and all manner of cookie (B59 for 100g).

Nimmanhaemin Soi 5, 061-789-9165. www.fb.com froseyogurtcafe

Maled

The color: White The vibe: The favorite cafe of Chiang Mai University’s coffee snobs and Instagram aesthetes has opened a second branch in the Suthep district. Dash in for a quick morning coffee and you’ll invariably be drawn into the cafe’s cozy, loungey mood and the Scandinavian minimalism that’s right out of a Kinfolk photoshoot. (Drinking game: an espresso shot for every magazine on the shop’s IG.) The cafe: It’s not all eye-candy either—the house-roasted coffee is delicious, whether served as espresso or in the rich and messy Iced Latte Lava, which comes with a foamy top and caramel dripping down the sides (B120).

Don’t miss the shop’s specialty, the Jelly Black (only six cups per day, B95), which is coffee jelly with milk.

D.K. Mansion, Suthep Sub-District, 099-295-5655. www.fb.com/ MaLedCoffeeBar

On Cloud 9

The color: Pink The vibe: You get a tooth ache just stepping through the door. The decor here isn’t plush and furry in the usual way of cute cafes though, instead skewing minimalist, with a glass-brick wall and occasional signs the only ornamentation.

The cafe: We’re convinced Cloud 9 is a euphemism for a sugar high.

Everything on the menu here will have you buzzing for a good hour, whether that’s the drinks topped in clouds of cotton candy or the signature Fluffy Unicorn Poop, a double almond brownie with a heaping scoop of cookie & cream ice cream topped with cotton candy (B155).

Another favorite is the You are the Straw to my Berry (B185): ice cream served with a bowl of cherries, strawberry sauce and condensed milk.

Hot deal: Fly Jetstar from Bangkok to Singapore with an extra three-day, two -night stay starting at B3,195/person. May-October, 2018. changtrixget.com, www.fb.com/ch.trixget

HFLIGHT.NET

Hot deal: Fly Phillipine Airlines from Bangkok to Tokyo (Narita, B9,805; Haneda, B10,150), Fukuoka (B9,650), Nagoya (B10,120) and Osaka (B9,935). Bookings available now through Mar 31. Travel through Jun 30, 2018. www.fb.com/hflightdotnet

5 Nimmanhaemin Soi 9, 065-478-0688. www.fb.com/Oncloudnineofficial

Piccadilly

The Color: Pink The vibe: “Taste Me & Drink My Soul” is the neon slogan of Piccadilly, Nimman’s dessert extravaganza. Like its many sweet-shop peers, this snug spot comes in solid pink. The shop has its own alley with outdoor seating and a tree canopy for cloud cover, making this the perfect place to indulge in a cheatday treat.

The cafe: We’d say it’s safe to judge this book by its cover: every item on the menu is picture-perfect and cute, the focus being ice cream festooned with kaleidoscopic toppings from Froot Loops and Pocky through marshmallows in myriad shapes.

They also do baked goods like scones, brownies and cookies, which come together excellently in a mini high tea set.

Nimmanhaemin Soi 7, 083-325-2533. www.fb.com/piccadillydessertbar

KOD PRO (SUPER PRO TICKETS)

Hot deal: Fly Hong Kong Airlines to Los Angeles (B17,465), San Francisco (B17,960) and Vancouver (B18,320). Feb 15-Jun 20, 2018. www.fb.com/superprotickets

ROYAL TOUR

Hot deal: Fly Vietjet Air from Bangkok to Da Lat with four days and three nights accommodation for B11,888. Prices include transportation to the city. Travel through June 30, 2018. www.fb.com/royaltourgroup

BK Magazine Friday, March 16, 2018

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3/12/18 5:13 PM

ESCAPE ROUTES

By Kankanok Wichiantanon

LAMPHUN

Art House Temple House (www.fb.com/templehouselamphun) is an example of why Lamphun deserves better than its reputation as Chiang Mai’s undervisited neighbor.

Downstairs, Temple House is an airy bistro of industrial extraction and lively furniture that serves coffee, cakes, sandwiches and pastas. But it’s also much more than your typical all-day-dining cafe. They’ve opened an upstairs art gallery highlighting multiple generations of artists, the rotating collection acting as a conversation between past, present and future. When you’ve had your fill of food and art, stop by the little stand on the way out, where they sell local organic vegetables at market prices.

PHUKET

Blue Streak Phuket's new Smart Bus system hopes to provide an alternative to the island's notorious taxi mafia.

The blue route runs the island’s western coast, starting at Phuket International Airport in the north all the way down to Rawai Beach at the southern tip. Buses will run 32 rounds per day, from 6am-8pm daily, with the 56km journey taking 2-3 hours. Among the 50 stops are vacationer favorites Patong Beach, Kata Beach and Surin Beach. Grab a Rabbit x Phuket Smartcard at the airport for B300 (includes a B100 card fee). Prices range between B50B170, and the bus schedule can be found at www.choop.me.

HONG KONG

Civic Duty The Murray (www.marcopolohotels.com) transforms an old British government building in Hong Kong’s Central district into a ritzy, brass-and-marble clad hotel where the rooms cost from B29,000. With 25 stories and over 300 rooms, The Murray is anything but boutique, yet its designers (whose main number is Britain’s Foster + Partners) have captured a look that’s both personal and lavish.

The Murray Suite feels like something out of a New York loft with its sweeping, black-brushstroke art installations and blackened herringbone floor, while even the smallest rooms nudge at 50 sq meters in size. Should you get peckish, they’ve also partnered with the one-Michelin-star Guo Fu Lou to open a restaurant in the neighboring two-story pavilion.

INDIA

Royal Welcome JW Marriott Jaipur (goo.gl/1JnHzE), on the outskirts of what’s called the "Pink City" of India for its 18th century sandstone palaces and forts, isn’t out of its depth amid all the old world grandeur.

The hotel architecture borrows from Rajasthan’s majesty and will have you convinced you’re entering a palace of centuries past with its intricate stone latticework and tile mosaics. It's worth the stay just to eat at Mohan Mahal, a gorgeous, tenderly-lit restaurant serving up Rajasthani and Mughali cuisine. The 200plus rooms, suites and villas are modern updates of antique opulence. Each room’s marble floors convey a cool, minimalist vibe while invoking the marble palaces that the region’s famous for. For B14,000/night, stay in a royal pool villa, which comes with a private plunge pool.

BK Magazine Friday, March 16, 2018

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3/12/18 5:14 PM

avenue FASHION

Mesolithic Mode Homme Plisse Issey Miyake has a breezy new collection that’ll make you feel better about the impending hot season. Spring/Summer 2018 returns us to hunter-gatherer times, specifically, Japan’s Jomon era, characterized by “Dogu” broad-shouldered and grim-faced clay figurines here translated into wild, pop-art prints on pleated coats, tops and pants. Stand out with the popping summer colors of mustard yellow and citron, as well as earthy, rustic hues of deep navy and pale brown that allude to that ancient time. Expect light, comfy pieces like the cotton-linen jersey T-shirts with fringed hems (B4,500), the square knit, linen-polyester knitwear (starting from B31,000) and pleated lounge pants (B9,900). M/F, Siam Discovery, Rama 1 Rd., 02-021-2141. Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Siam

COSMETICS

Big is Beautiful Local beauty megastore Beautrium has a new branch at Seacon Square Srinakarin, and it’s got everything: makeup, skincare, haircare, perfume and more. International and homegrown brands include NYX, Maybelline, L’Oreal, Wet n Wild, O.P.I., Beauty People, ODBO and pretty much anyone else you can name. Professional teams administer all the latest appendages, like eyelash extensions and eyebrow tattoos. Look out for special monthly promotions only available at this multi-brand behemoth, like 29 percent off Oviara The UV Face Protector SPF50 PA+++Plus BB (B480) through Mar 31. 3/F, Seacon Srinakarin, Srinakarin Rd. Open daily 10:30am-9:30pm

GYMS

Better, Faster, Stronger Your fitness is the stuff of science at Ari’s new Eat and Train Cafe, a health studio with programs promising to help you make good on those New Year’s resolutions. Personalized fitness means they’ll tailor programs to your goals and capabilities, which includes options for the elderly. Services include one-onone coaching sessions, corporate-wellness programs for office workers, group coaching, online coaching (for those who can’t make it to the studio) and sport-specific coaching with a personalized plan based on your sport’s physiology and biomechanics.

Programs start at B22,000. Open by appointment. G/F, Centric Ari Station, Ari Soi 1. www.eatandtrainbyscience.com

FASHION

Look Ahead Thanks to collaborations with artist Mark Borthwick, the lookbooks of Berlin-based eyewear brand Mykita are always the stuff of art galleries. The portrait series for its 2018 “True Colors” campaign makes a statement with models of all colors. That doesn’t distract from the artistry of the 10 new pieces of eyewear handmade from stainless steel, acetate and Mylon, which come in retro pastel hues that will have jealous fashionistas peering over their Ray-Bans at you. The Anik frame (B19,500) is pantoshaped and made of light stainless steel, while the Masao (B19,900) has boxy frames made of ultra-light stainless steel only 0.5 millimeters wide.

Available at Niche Nation, 2/F, Central Embassy, 1031 Ploen Chit Rd., 02-160-5825. Open daily 10am-10pm

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BK Magazine Friday, March 16, 2018

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3/9/18 9:49 PM

avenue

y ealth ay. h o t M guide this Your . Coming living

TECH

Head Candy Run this town with a set of Bluetooth headphones that won’t fall out every 20 paces.

By Dhipkawee Sriyananda Selley

Jaybird X3

BK

PICK! Playtime: 8 hours Price: B5,490 Users love: Awesome comfort, superb audio performance, good value for money, huge amount of fitting options, helmet friendly for cyclists.

Users hate: Problems with Wi-Fi connection cutting out if you keep your phone in your pocket and not an armband.

Available at: SoundProofBros, 5/F, MBK Center. www.soundproofbrosaudio.com

POWER PARCELS

Bose SoundSport Wireless

Plantronics BackBeat Fit

Playtime: 6 hours Price: B6,900 Users love: Pretty much everything.

They’re some of the highest-rated wireless buds out there thanks to crisp audio (both music and calls) and a price tag that’s not completely crazy.

Users hate: They look bulky in your ears and the battery life’s not what it could be.

Available at: Asavasopon Bose Distributor, 2/F Siam Paragon. www.asavasopon.co.th

Playtime: 8 hours Price: B4,690 U s e r s l ove : Ro b u s t l o o ks a re matched with construction that can handle what the gym throws at them. The armband storage case is a handy accessory. Sound is quality but not best in class, while battery life is great.

Users hate: Try them on before you buy—for some they fit perfectly, while others report issues with the size. The base could be better.

Available at: www.mercular.com

Beats X

Jabra Elite Sport

Playtime: 8 hours Price: B5,900 Users love: The clean, minimal design. Fast Fuel charging gives you two hours of battery life in five minutes. Easy compatibility with iPhones and balanced sound quality.

Users hate: Poor outside noise cancelation. Bass not great, especially by Beats’ standards.

Available at: iStudio and Studio 7 nationwide. www.apple.com/th

Playtime: 4.5 hours Price: B8,690 Users love: They’re completely wireless—meaning no cable to go around your neck. Great job, then, that the fit is really secure. The Jabra app brings up a whole stack of useful stats about your workout, and they also have programmed workouts that’ll offer you in-ear advice. Sound quality’s superb.

Users hate: They’re expensive. And that wireless system could turn into a costly vanity—try finding one of these when it falls out in the park. The battery life is also short.

Available at: www.tmsactive.com

Get These Protein Powders Delivered to Your Door

MUSCLE FOOD SHOP

HEALTH FOOD THAILAND

NUTRITION DEPOT

What: Dietary supplements and products from all over the world. Brands include Optimum, Pharma First, Iso Sensation and Prostar.

How much: B990 for Optimum Whey Protein Gold 1lb, to B1,990 Iso Sensation 93-5Lb with free shaker, and B2,400 for Pharma First Whey Extras 5lb with shaker.

Delivery: Free delivery, next day shipping.

What: All things organic and nutritious. Shop gluten-free and raw vegan foods, super herbs, protein powders made from vegetables and insects, and Korean ginseng powder (for colds).

How much: B250 for 100 grams of Black Seed Powder, while 1,000 grams of Cricket Protein Powder is B1,650.

Delivery/Shipment method: EMS or Kerry Express, next day shipping after order is placed.

What: A wide range of leading sports and bodybuilding supplements from international brands.

How much: B1,490 for 920 grams of honey vanilla-flavored whey protein from Scitec Nutrition, while 10lb of whey protein isolates from Optimum costs up to B4,299.

Delivery/Shipment method: Next day shipping and free delivery if you make a purchase of over B1,500.

www.healthfoodthailand.com/en

www.nutritiondepot.co.th/shop

www.musclefoodshop.com/en/

WATCH OUR MATH

Prices start at B14,990 for the new G ar m in Fo rer u n n er 6 4 5, n ot B7,600 as we reported in BK’s Mar 2 issue. Available at Banana Run (095-467-08880).

BK Magazine Friday, March 16, 2018

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3/12/18 6:10 PM

bites & blends NEW RESTAURANT

Super Bowl Ramen returns to the streets of Ari in the form of Ton Chin Kan Ramen, a local name who disappeared off the scene almost a year ago. Come for the heady, tonkotsu aroma, stay for the lively, communal vibes.

The secret behind the umami-packed bowls is a porkbone-based broth that’s been boiled for nine hours, then left to simmer for another nine hours—The result: a thick and luscious soup you’d typically have to cross town for. Get the signature tan tan ramen (B230) for a hit of chili and sesame with a side of soy-braised runny eggs (B50) or level up with the tonkotsu shoyu ramen (B240) that’s piled high with fatty slices of pork. 117/2 Phahon Yothin Soi 7 (Ari), 081687-7932. Open Tue-Sun 11:30am-2:30pm, 5:30-9:30pm

NEW RESTAURANT

DINNER

EVENT

On the ‘Lam

Sky’s the Limit

Hop to It

Thonglor nightlife baron Maft Sai, of Zudrangma Records and Studio Lam, has a new daytime gig: Sangaa. Situated smackbang between Maft Sai's other two hipster haunts, this downto-earth beef noodles joint whips up 50-year-old family recipes from Samut Sakhon. The shop-house (vivid orange walls, handpainted signs) blares with molam and lukthung, a fittingly retrofied setting for beef noodles with bouncy meatballs (B5060), braised beef and gravy over rice (B60-70) and specials like Wednesday’s juicy braised beef kaprao. Beware, they often sell out and close at just 7:30pm (though they do stay open later for Studio Lam events). Sukhumvit Soi 51, 083-063-1335. Open Mon-Sat 10am-7:30pm. BTS Thong Lo

In a move that should surprise precisely no one, Dinner in the Sky isn’t done yet. The experience that asks you to strap yourself into a seat at a table suspended 50 meters above BTS Phrom Phong had been slated to end in Feb, but has now been extended till Apr 30. Gimmicky? You bet. Four courses of Eurocentric creations from Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit’s chef Geatano Palumbo aside, the one-hour dangling time promising views of the lemming-like masses going in and out of EmQuartier ought to provide a new perspective on life. Prices are B4,900 (rising to B5,390 on weekends). For more information and bookings, visit www.dinnerinthesky.co.th

The DIY culture is strong this weekend (Mar 17-18) when The Commons hosts over 30 workshops dedicated to food, drink, arts and crafts. They’re enlisting a few heavy-hitters, too, like master of fermentation, chef Phanuphon “Black” Bulsuwan of Chiang Mai's Blackitch, who’ll give a guide to pickling (B1,200), and natural wine specialist Naturalista, who’ll give the basics of a “rowdy” wine pairing (B1,500). Other top picks include a tutorial on speed brewing with Roots (pay as you feel) and classes devoted to double choc brownie- and pasta-making. For the full details, visit www.thecommonsbkk. com/workshophopping. The Commons, Thonglor Soi 17, 089152-2677

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BK Magazine Friday, March 16, 2018

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3/12/18 5:40 PM

blends TASTE TEST

ON THE BAR

Just the Tonic

The WoodShed

You can’t spell G&T without the T. With a raft of new artisanal names arriving in town, we conducted a blind taste test to rank them from best to worst. By BK Staff

Bangkok Soda (Siamese Tonic) 1

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BK PICK!

We love this one. By substituting quinine for citrus peel, the Bangkok Soda team have produced an unconventional tonic with a bitterness closer to that of grapefruit. You almost don’t need a garnish to go with this soda.

Get it at: Junker and Bar, 1881 by Water Library, La Monita, Iron Balls

Fever Tree (Premium Indian) 2

RUNNER UP

Second behind Bangkok soda only because it’s a tad too sweet. Fever Tree is smooth on the way down and doesn’t leave an aftertaste, which makes it a perfect pick for those who enjoy a heavy-handed, botanical garnish.

An “easy-drinking” tonic.

Get it at: Most gin bars in Bangkok 3

Sanpellegrino

1724 (Traditional)

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This is too much like flat manao soda. It’s sour and sharp on the finish. Mix it with gin and it tastes like mouthwash and reminds us of drinking G&Ts along Sukhumvit Soi 11 (not a good thing).

Lamb & Watt (Traditional)

Get it at: A Bar, Iron Balls, Just a Drink Maybe, Teens of Thailand, Vesper

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Tastes like Sprite and smells like ginger ale. There’s an unusual tamarindy flavor to it, too, which could actually pair well with a rosemary garnish. Without the necessary bitterness, though, the flavors can wash out under a strong gin.

Get it at: A Bar, Junker and Bar, Teens of Thailand 6

Schweppes

Schweppes gets a lot of hate from purists for being too bubbly and having a chemical finish.

That’s all true. It’s also cheap, widely available and, honestly, not too bad once you’re three drinks in. The everyman’s tonic.

Get it at: Everywhere.

Taken straight, it tastes like a milder—and by that we mean nicer—version of Schweppes.

Pair it with gin, though, and the stuff shines, its sharp finish folding nicely together with the juniper. A classic tonic for a classic G&T. Get it at: A Bar, Vesper, Mikkeller

Fentimans (Traditional)

Like lemonade when measured against its competitors. We’d drink this one on its own, but with its light fizz and sweet finish, it’s not our pick for a crisp cocktail. A tonic for G&T newbies.

Get it at: A Bar

East Imperial (Old World Tonic) 8

Like watered-down corn syrup with an artificial aftertaste. The texture’s almost soupy. Combined with gin, it makes for a strong G&T that reminds us of the stuff we were downing in our university days when we didn’t know any better.

Get it at: It’s currently hard to find, but a new distributor is working to make it available at speciality bars around Bangkok.

Thomas Henry (Traditional) 9

YUCK!

Is this tonic? This cotton candy juice had our tasters washing out their mouths. Gin doesn’t save it.

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Get it at: Just a Drink Maybe, Teens of Thailand

Tonics were tasted blind by BK staff, neat first and then with Tanqueray Gin.

2 5 9

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3 8

4 7

The buzz: Tucked inside rustic European restaurant Harvest is a new bar with a jazz band and a rollicking menu of craft spirits and cocktails.

The decor: True to its name, the WoodShed’s ambiance is dark and gloomily potent , a thing to be imbibed more than enjoyed. Seating’s divided between low tables, leather chairs and one nook in the corner that’s fit for a group. A few strings of dim fairy lights give the impression of candlelit outdoors, a look completed by the old, and still living, tree that’s smack in the middle of the bar. Pay attention to the assorted glassware collection— each piece was chosen meticulously by the owner. A trio jazz band plays Fridays and a New Orleans-style pianist on Mondays.

The drinks: Former Harvest bartender Suparb “Joe” Mopa, who does a fine introductory drink in Red (B365): sloe gin, red currant, sparkling wine and lime. Invoke the lumberjack within with a Gintochoke (B365) of pickled artichoke with its briny juice, Whitley Neil gin and dry vermouth. Straight shooters can skip to the Deadly Invitation (B430), which is Plantation 3 stars rum, Zubrowka Bison vodka, red currant syrup and fresh thyme, all served in a fresh Venus vase flower over crushed ice. It’s beautiful but, as the name warns, will probably fell you. We also love the Smoke Lingers (B450): Laphroaig 10 years, Ocho Tequila, single espresso, house-made coffee syrup and burnt walnut combine to give the drink a smoky, robust flavor that’s clean yet warming. Don’t be afraid to ask Joe to whip up something special for you—he’s up to the challenge.

The crowd: The post-Harvest crowd, craft spirit snobs and a smattering of jazz enthusiasts.

Essentials 1881 by Water Library. Groove@ CentralWorld, Rama 1 Rd., 061825-7348, 095-072-7777

Iron Balls. Parklane Sukhumvit Soi 63, 02-714-2269,Sukhumvit Soi 45, 02-662-4478

A Bar. 37-38/F, Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, 199 Sukhumvit Soi 22, 02-059-5555

Junker and Bar. 454 Suan Phlu Soi 1, 085-100-3608

Just a Drink Maybe. 44/3 Thonglor Soi 1, 02-023-7285

Teens of Thailand. 3/F, Siam Discovery Rama 1 Rd.

La Monita. 888/25-26 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-650-9581

Vesper. 10/15 Convent Rd., 02-235-2777

Why we’d go back: Skilled mixologist, unconventional cocktail menu and a fine and evolving craft spirit selection.

Megan Leon 24/1 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 097-235-8286. Open daily 5:30pm-midnight

Mikeller. 26 Ekkamai Soi 10, 02-381-9891 BK Magazine Friday, March 16, 2018

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bites

OPEN DOOR

Maison Chatenet Some of Bangkok’s best pastries arrive on Charoenkrung.

The buzz: With the arrival of TCDC, Warehouse 30 and untold shop-house bars, Charoenkrung’s come on leaps and bounds in the past 12 months. If this latest arrival's name, Maison Chatenet, rings any bells, that’s because chef-proprietor Marcel Chatenet is the older brother of Albert, the star Laotian-French baker who whipped Bangkok into a frenzy with his croissants a couple years back.

The decor: A melange of glass, concrete and brick that hits all the home-comfort notes without any twee frills. The sun-dappled ground floor is home to an open kitchen that’s a hive of activity, but the real heart of the place can be found upstairs

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where a long wooden table is meant to recreate the setting of traditional French family gatherings.

The food: The pastries take center stage, including, of course, the croissant: flaky, chewy goodness that’s the result of a painstaking three-day baking process. Sweet tooths are truly spoiled thanks to options like brioche feuilletee (B110), apple tart filled with almond cream (B50) and chouquette filled pastry cream (B35). Solid savory bites include the hefty boeuf bourguignon quiche topped with melted cheese (B150), porchetta sandwiches (B150) and gougeres (choux pastry with cheddar cheese, B20)—best paired with a cold beer.

The drinks: To go with a croissant, grab an espresso (B80) or cappuccino (B120) made from beans sourced and roasted in Doi Inthanon, Chiang Mai. An iced chocolate (B120) makes a fine caffeine-free alternative. Beers and wines are on the way.

Why we’d come back: Beautifully buttery croissants and scrumptious quiches mere minutes from some of our favorite creative spaces guarantee repeat visits. The promise of more substantial French comfort food (and wine) in the near future also has us salivating. Kankanok Wichiantanon C h a ro e n k r u n g S o i 30, B a n g Ra k , 0 92-4 08- 0308, Tu e -Su n 11:30am-2:30pm, 6-10:30pm

BK Magazine Friday, March 16, 2018

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3/9/18 9:54 PM

Luka Moto

Eats Payao

Oh My Gelato

TABLE TALK

NEW AND NOTED

Asian Eats From street stall to shop-house and now to four-story townhouse, there’s no ending in sight for the Eats Payao (5/4 Yen Akat Rd., 092-393-1609) feelgood story. The Northern Thai food specialist has just swapped its cramped Nanglinchee digs for a bigger, better premises on buzzing Yen Akat, where on top of khao soi (from B90) and gaeng hang lay (B180), they’re adding a menu of Singaporean food—think bak kut teh and nasi lemak—in deference to one half of the owner-couple’s upbringing. Head there pronto to get one of their sai oua (northern Thai sausage) burgers for the knock-down price of B54.

I Scream OMG New homemade ice-cream delivery service Oh My Gelato (081-850-5353. www.fb.com/omg.gelato) goes beyond your average choc and vanilla flavors (all B69/cup, plus delivery).

The out-there hit of the summer is the basil-pork flavor—it

may look just like chocolate, but the specks of bacon and chili offer something decidedly different. Play it relatively straight with the Omm Nom Nom, cookies mixed with Horlicks (malted milk), that you can also get in a sandwich form for B79.

Fuel for Thought Are you a Thonglorite bored with Roast? Take yourself over to new Luka Moto (Thonglor Soi 10, 02-050-0469). The name comes from a well-established brunch spot over on Sathorn, and here they dole out a similar daytime-friendly menu of breakfast burritos (B310) and smashed avo open-face sandwiches (B240). And if you want to skip on the coffee, they’ll even pour you punchy bloody Mary (B240) or a Grey Goosespiked watermelon juice (B260). The Casa Pagoda-leaning furniture is straight out of the original Pan Road branch, while the reason you get to lust over restro-styled big bikes while you wait for your flat white is because of a partnership with BMW—hence the “Moto” name. BK staff

Savelberg G/F, Oriental Residence, 110 Wireless Rd., 02-2528001. Open Mon-Sat noon-2pm, 6-9:30pm.

Dutch chef Henk Savelberg’s classical Continental cooking and clockwork service have won him a Michelin star both back in his native Amsterdam and now here. Championing the sort of bright, delicate flavors that have fallen out of favor with today’s umami-obsessed diners, the kitchen excels in transforming commonplace ingredients such as chicken and cauliflower along with luxe bites like oyster and lobster. The impeccable service and wine list round out the great food.

Exclusively for Citi credit card members Get a complimentary drink valued from THB 250 when spending via Citi credit cards (limit 1 glass /person) Today - 31 Dec 18

BK Magazine Friday, March 16, 2018

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bites FOOD REVIEWS

Gismo

HH

Western. 39 Boulevard, 41 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 0 2 -1 6 0 - 0 3 1 1 . O p e n d a i l y M o n - S u n 10:30am-11:30pm. F BBB-BBBB

Be Seen in Better You your guide to happy living The 2018 guide will be available as a free insert in BK Magazine on May18.

Gismo is a product of cafe culture’s age of Instagram: hanging terrariums, cast-iron pans, fake plants, distressed or corrugated walls and sweeping communal tables. Its photogenic backdrop has the air of a venue ready-made for a company shindig, birthday party or brunch meetup. The food falls into the well-traveled territory of Western all-day-dining (synonymous nowadays with brunch fare and pasta) that’s also already well-executed by other Bangkok favorites, like Roast. But Gismo doesn’t meet the city’s standard. It all looks and sounds right, but as in the example of their avocado toast (B320) topped with a poached egg, spicy tuna and salad, the sum is less than its parts.

The ingredients arrive mushed together in a stack of indistinguishable and mild flavors. The tuna eggplant salad

Uncle Jeff’s Kitchen HHH Malaysian. 29/10 Ekkamai Soi 10, 02-0575289. Open daily 11am-9pm. B-BB

You can count Bangkok’s dedicated Malaysian restaurants on one hand (and good ones on a couple of digits), which makes the discovery of this humble restaurant all the more exciting. Occupying the lobby of a boutique guesthouse on Ekkamai Soi 10, Uncle Jeff’s Kitchen serves homespun Malay-Chinese dishes in a kitsch, comforting setting. Vintage bric-abrac, muraled walls and patterned tiles combine to evoke the old-school shop-houses of Penang. The menu of hawker staples— nasi lemak , pan mee , roti canai , laksa , curries and s ambal gril ls—is delivered with enough care for detail to more than overcome a few blips in service. There are some six versions of nasi lemak to choose from; plump for Uncle Jeff’s signature (B249), which features creamy coconut rice accompanied by fried and hard-boiled eggs, dried anchovies, juicy shell-on prawns and squid in a sambal (chili paste) that’s powerful but just about palatable for

To Advertise contact Email: advertising@asia-city.co.th Call: 02-624-9696 (Sales Dept.)

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(B260) and the fettuccine with yellowfin tuna (B420) dressed in bouillabaisse sauce are similarly without texture or significant taste, a surprise given the vibrant pink potential of the seared tuna. Even the herbs that dress the dishes are blanched of life. Forgo the tuna varieties for the roasted baby chicken (B540) that’s served with sides of roasted potatoes and a whole head of roasted garlic. The bird’s satisfyingly crip skin hides tender, juicy meat that, while bland alone, comes together deliciously with the two sauces: jim jaew and a beer-based other. We washed all this down with the Elderflower Sour (B290), a mix of Irish whiskey, elderflower and lime that’s refreshing and lightly perfumed, if unambitious—the sort of drink you look for in a brunch spot.

The dessert of mango and berry mousse (B220) whips together mascarpone cream and mango into soft peaks that contrast nicely with the sprinkling of cookie crumbs and pistachio. Also a boon are the attentive, enthusiastic wait staff, who are full of recommendations should you ask. But would we recommend the restaurant?

Considering the labyrinthine location and underwhelming dishes, not for anything beyond its Instagram credentials.

newcomers. We probably couldn’t say that of everything here. Marked as “spice-level four,” the mala pan mee (B189)—chewy flat flour noodles, minced pork, mushrooms and pork balls in a rich pork and anchovy soup—had us sweating just a few slurps in, but with a squeeze of lime definitely rewards the adventurous.

Be sure to visit on Fri-Sun if you want to try their seafood laksa (B249); in its absence, we were pointed towards the Malaysian chicken and potato curry (B209/B399), whose big, bold turmeric and cumin flavors measure up well. To mop up the wickedly sludgy gravy (the portion is big, even for a small size), you’ll have to order a side of roti canai (B179 for three), which comes with its own side of even more gravy. But be sure to do so, because this warm, flaky flatbread is tasty even on its own. In such company, we’d probably avoid the deepfried chicken wings (B229 for three), which come across as a pale KFC copycat (as good as that might still be).

For all its retro charm, Uncle Jeff’s is not the place for a roaring night out.

They’ve got beer (Tiger, B120) but our recent nighttime visit was remarkable for the complete absence of music, perhaps out of consideration for the hotel guests above. These guests returned the gesture by loitering about loudly, some in their pajamas.

That hardly takes the shine off a meal that’s big on flavor and character— end on a nostalgic note with a Milo Dinosaur drink (B109).

Ratings

Price guide

PPPP PPPP PPPP PPPP PPPPP

B BB BBB BBBB

Forget it Only if you’re in the neighborhood A pleasant dining experience Not to be missed Flawless BK pays for its meal and does not call ahead or sit with the chef.

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 E Dress requirements G Live music

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now THU Lights Out Europe’s massive EDM festival, Transmission, returns to BITEC on Mar 17. Fans of last year’s inaugural Bangkok performance will remember the heavy-duty laser show and pyrotechnics galore. The visuals this year are augmented with the theme of The Spirit of the Warrior, interpreted through cross-cultural visuals of warriors (Roman, Samurai and something we think is a Viking). Among the lineup are Aly & Fila and Ferry Corsten presenting Gouryella 2.0. See page 18 for more information.

THU Losing the Plot Post-punk trio PLOT (see interview, page 18) are a band we’ve been keeping an eye on ever since naming them one to watch way back in 2010. Since then, a smattering of singles has hardly kept fans happy. Now, finally—finally!—they’re about to release a debut album, Anon , sure to be full of buzzsaw guitars and lyrical disillusion. Get an advance heading when PLOT are joined by indie newbies Parim and Beam Wong for a live show this Mar 22.

SAT Pursuit of Happiness Indie Rookies Joie de vivre, hygge, sanuk—the practice of The third coming of Jamnight Live! brings taking pleasure in the present crosses cultogether Beach Fossils of Brooklyn, Her’s of tures, apparently, and it is this shared purLiverpool and Bangkok’s own Safeplanet. More suit that’s at the heart of I-Solated Beings. than their vintage-store cool, the three groups The exhibition, hosted by Subhashok The are joined by a rising indie following in their Arts Centre, represents the discourse berespective countries. Expect songs from Beach tween artists Torlarp Larpjaroensook (ThaiFossil’s latest album, Somersault. See page 18 land) and Andreas Schulenburg (Denmark). for tickets for the Mar 9 event at Voice Space.

To be a part of that dialogue, come for the opening reception on Mar 17 at 7pm.

NIGHTLIFE ESCAPE 56 BKK FEAT. MARVIN & GUY (LIFE & DEATH / IT)

Italian DJs and producers Alessandro Parlatore and Marcello Giordani showcase their groovy techno tracks. Grab tickets at bit.ly/2GTcbbL. Mar 16, 9pm.

Shade&Shadow Event Space, 905 Silom Soi 19, 096-649-6919. B600.

CHERUB Dan Buri

The Nashville duo fills the room with their electro-indie sounds. Mar 16, 8pm. Future Factory Bangkok, 331/45 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 098253-9356. Free.

BYOB#3 SHARING NIGHT PARTY

Local brewers and distributors share their latest batches with the discerning public. Mar 17, 6pm. Let The Girl Kill, 747 Charoenkrung Rd., 080-5996177. Free.

SAKE + SOUND VOL. 5

These two festival favorites spin techno music till late. Tickets TBA. Mar 16, 10pm. Mustache, 544/5 Ratchadaphisek Soi 7, 02-274-5855.

Grooves from DJ Masa Niwayama, visual art from Shunsuke Akiyoshi, live painting from Gerard Gademann and a whole lot of sake. Mar 17, 7pm. Orihara Shoten, Sukhumvit Soi 63 (Ekkamai), 02-382-0131. B200 includes 1 drink.

MIXX PRESENTS TOM FRANK

AFRICANDUBPUSHERS DEBUT

The German DJ/music producer takes over the decks with his electronic beats.

Tickets TBA. Mar 16, 11pm. We Love Mixx, 973 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-6560383.

Afro-funk DJ African Star Trekker teams up with French electro hip-hop DJ The Colored Buttons Pusher for a night that jumps from dub and jungle to techno music. Mar 17, 8pm. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 089-889-8059. Free.

DAN BURI & CORAN ALL NIGHT LONG

A SPECIAL DISCO ROBOT CELEBRATION

Franck Roger

GLOW PRESENTS FRANCK ROGER!

Paris’s influential beatmaker spins house music alongside DJ Wintix. Mar 16, 9:30pm. Glow, Sukhumvit Soi 23, 086-614-3355. B350 includes 1 drink.

A disco night with English DJ J Alexander and his German counterpart, Jaydubb. Mar 16, 9pm. 12x12, 810/22 Tararom Soi 2, 094-260-4713. B150.

TECH CONNECTION! #013

A night of techno sounds from international DJs Sea Man, Naoki Imura, Otona Sound, 52Hz, Nocturnal Alliance,

Shangri-La and Cigura. Mar 17, 8pm.

Sorry I’m Gay, Ratchada Train Night Market, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 099-3399173. Free.

3 YEARS ANNIVERSARY MUSTACHE 2018

DJs Azat, Thorsten Kargen and Kuroten take over the decks to celebrate the dive bar’s birthday. With open bar from 6:30-8pm. Mar 17, 10pm. Mustache, 544/5 Ratchadaphisek Soi 7, 081-8447080. Free.

Plaza, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 061-717-4365. B200.

GIN AROUND THE WORLD

Try a selection of artisanal gins from across the globe. Mar 18, 1pm. Just A Drink Maybe, 44/3 Thonglor Soi 1.

B600.

MELA AT GLOW

DJ Jirus and Munta Morton spin techno music. Tickets TBA. Mar 18, 9pm. Glow, Sukhumvit Soi 23, 086-614-3355.

YOUNGJAMENA X SNUFF

SUPERFLY BKK 11: SFAF

An open mic night for aspiring rappers.

Tickets TBA. Mar 17, 10pm. The Beatlounge, 21/127 Block D, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 089-886-5665.

BAD & BOUJEE SATURDAYS FT. BANGKOK INVADERS

DJAyBuddah, DJ Ono, DJ Tob and MC Calo kick off a hip-hop party. Mar 17, 11pm. Maggie Choo’s, underground/F, Hotel Novotel Bangkok Fenix Silom, 320 Silom Rd., 091-772-2144. Free.

BASSCLEF X JIVING-TRIBE: FUNDRAISING CHARITY PARTY

Two DJ collectives team up for a night of drum 'n' bass with proceeds going to Nakhorn Phathom’s almshouse. Mar 17, 10pm. De Commune, 1/F, Liberty

A showcase of new faces on the underground dance scene featuring Jakkawan, Kenji, Psynus and Ockco. Mar 21, 9pm. De Commune, 1/F, Liberty Plaza, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 061-717-4365. B100.

GLOW WEDNESDAY WITH MATT WILLIAMS & ROULIO

English and French DJs fill the room with their upbeat electronic music.

Mar 21, 9:30pm. Glow, Sukhumvit Soi 23, 086-614-3355. B250 includes 1 drink.

GLOBAL VIBES THURSDAY WITH BUNGKUMHOUSE RECORDS DJ

The vinyl-loving DJ collective spins a set of Thai traditional folk music. Mar 2, >>

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now NIGHTLIFE

LIVE MUSIC

9pm. Studio Lam, 3/1 Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. Free.

EGG & AEK

The local violin and accordion duo perform live. Mar 22, 8pm. FooJohn Building, Charoenkrung Soi 31. Free.

SUGAR CLUB PRESENTS: DJ M1

The French turntablist spins everything from ‘80s music to techno. Mar 22, 10pm. Sugar Club, Sukhumvit Soi 11, 061-391-3111. B300-400 includes 1 drink.

NOCTURNAL ALLIANCE PRESENTS SATOSHI FUMI

The Tokyo-hailing underground techno DJ takes over the decks. Mar 23, 8pm.

12x12, 810/22 Tararom Soi 2, 094260-4713. B200.

FRANK JEZ

WESTIN POOL PARTY

The Irish DJ who’s opened for Beyonce, Calvin Harris and Chris Brown spins an electro-house set. Mar 23, 10pm. Insanity Nightclub, Sukhumvit Soi 11, 087-804-9542. B300-400 includes 1 drink.

This daytime pool party promises an upbeat DJ lineup of Juany Bravo, Chazin, Groove and Jerome G. Mar 24, 1pm. The Westin Grande, 259 Sukhumvit Soi 19, 02-207-8000.

B2,900-25,000.

GLOW FRIDAY WITH SUNJU HARGUN & ELAHEH

DOPE AS FUNK: FREAKS AND GEEKS

Techno sounds from the two local DJs. Mar 23, 9:30pm. Glow, Sukhumvit Soi 23, 086-614-3355. B300.

INTERSTELLAR WITH MONO JUNK

This showcase of Southeast Asian DJs promises experimental sounds from Kim Rapatti, Atika Altar and Naoki Imura. Mar 24, 9pm. De Commune, 1/F, Liberty Plaza, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 061-717-4365. B300 includes 1 drink.

DJs Arin, Tommy Nori, Aopsher, DeLorean and Plato fill the room with classic hip-hop and R&B. Mar 24, 10pm. Game Over Lounge, Liberty Plaza, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 02-170-7683. B300.

ADIERO + NUKIER

The local DJ spin electronic beats till late. Mar 25, 9pm. Glow, Sukhumvit Soi 23, 086-614-3355. B250 includes 1 drink.

and dramatic? Those people need to listen to the lyrics carefully and they’ll find out that, actually, my music speaks about admiring women.

A response to speculation that the latest single, “Madam Asoke,” refers to the big record label in that area?

The origins of PLOT?

Pai: Wit and I formed the band at our high school, St. Gabriel’s. Poon wasn’t with us at first. After our first drummer quit, a friend introduced us to Poon.

He insisted that Poon is amazingly talented. We only found out later that our friend had never even heard Poon play. But everything worked out.

Wit: Poon joined just as Koichi Shimizu offered to produce a song for us. That was “Nothing is New, Everything is Fucking the Same,” which went into Nawapol’s film.

Worst moments on stage?

Wit: Bay Beat Festival 2012 in Singapore.

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Pai: Yeah. Right. My guitar ran out of batteries, so Wit had to extend his bass solo session for like five minutes as I solved the problem. But it was such a fun experience. There were fireworks everywhere right after we finished our show because there was a rehearsal for Singapore’s National Day [laughs].

Poon: Back in those days, let’s call it the MySpace era, the most annoying but common problem was the drum pedal falling off the stage while we were playing.

Best moments on stage?

Pai: They asked us to keep playing at a charity concert for the victims of an earthquake in Nepal. Everybody was both really drunk and enjoying our show, but we didn’t have anything prepared, so we just repeated ourselves the whole show. Everybody loved it.

A response to criticism of sexist in lyrics supposedly like blaming a woman for ''loving to lead a guy on with false hope''

Pai: Why are people so pessimistic

Concerts TRANSMISSION BANGKOK 2018

One of Europe's biggest electronic music festivals returns with the new theme of The Spirit of the Warrior, featuring Ferry Corsten, accompanied by Gouryella 2.0 and Ben Nicky, famous for bringing "bad boy" trance to the stage. Grab tickets at bit.ly/2z9mF7F. Mar 17, 5pm.

BITEC, Bangna-Trad Rd. B2,800-4,500.

CONFEST 2018

Concert promoter Conflakes hosts an evening of indie music featuring 17 bands including The Sticker Photo Machine, Soundlanding and Srirajah Rockers. Grab tickets at www.ticketmelon. com/live/confest2018. Mar 17, 1pm.

About Studio, Pradit Manutham Rd. B790.

JOHN LEGEND DARKNESS AND LIGHT TOUR

INTERVIEW PLOT

Formed in 2010, the post-punk trio PLOT, who scenesters may recognize from Nawapol Thamrongrattanarit's Mary Is Happy, Mary is Happy (2013), are finally releasing a full studio album, called Anon, in June. Here, Jitivi ‘‘Pai’‘ Banthaisong, Ponwit ‘‘Wit‘’ Rattanatanatevilai and Phorphat ‘‘Poon‘’ Kitkrailass tell us about the band’s eight year journey and their next steps.

John Legend

Frank Jez

Sunju Hargun

The American soul singer/songwriter makes his live Bangkok debut as part of his "Darkness and Light World Tour 2018" in support of his 2016 album which spawned hits like "Love Me Now" and "Penthouse Floor." Tickets via thaiticketmajor.com. Mar 23, 8pm. BITEC, 88 Bangna-Trad Rd. 2,800-8,000.

THE FIN. + YOGEE NEW WAVES LIVE IN BANGKOK

Pai: How do you guys come up with this? Anyway, I’ll make it clear here that it’s nothing related to that. It’s about a woman who is never miserable.

Japanese indie-pop band The fin. is joined on the night by a new local talent. Grab tickets at bit.ly/2EXWeo9.

Mar 25, 6pm. Voice Space, BBD Building, 197 Viphavadi-Rangsit Rd. B1,500.

Favorite haunts?

Gigs

Pai: I don’t normally hang out in bars.

I like to eat street food. My favorite spot is Larb Ped Por 4 on Rama 9 Road. The Isaan food there is so good.

Wit: Krua Pradiphat on Pradiphat Road. I don’t go to bars that often either so my favorite place to go to relax is where I can find a delicious meal.

Poon: Mine is Krua Pradiphat as well, but I don’t go there with these guys.

We don’t hate each other, we just don’t hang out together that much [laughs].

Biggest problems in Bangkok’s music scene?

Pai: As musicians, I think there are lots of places and promoters that want to promote the scene. The problem is artists, who need to be better about making original work. Neon Boonyadhammakul

Three tracks from Anon are already available online. Catch PLOT live at Confest on Mar 17 and Madam Commune on Mar 22 (see right). Also, look out for a music video of “Madam Asoke” this April.

SPOTLIGHT: CONSCIOUS HIP-HOP

New York rapper Farbeon showcases his old-school hip-hop beats supported by local act Bang Sue Electrix. Grab tickets at bit.ly/2CNqcFo. Mar 16, 7:30pm.

Live Lounge, Trendy Building, 10/47 Sukhumvit Soi 13, 02-168-7335. B200400.

VOL. 12.1 THE ELECTRO POETRY WITH VAN TWOLIPS

perform experimental electronic music alongside local talents Summer Dress and Ben I Sabbah, with a DJ set from Stylish Nonsense. Mar 16, 9pm. Studio Lam, 3/1 Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-2616661. B300.

RENDEZVOUS WITH SERGIO VARDINELLI / RAMINTRA

A night of alternative music led by the Argentinean drummer Sergio Vardinelli and local trip-hop/electronica duo Ramintra, accompanied by post-rock guitarist Kota Taki and a DJ set from Giant Swing’s Gaolao. Mar 17, 9pm. 12 x 12, 810/22 Tararom Soi 2, 094-260-4713.

B200.

STONE IN THE GRASS VOL.2

Live performances from alt-rockers Sasi, The Front Row, Costlywood and Goldwolf amid a ‘60s hippie-inspired atmosphere. Mar 17, 7:30pm. The Overstay, Charan Sanitwong Soi 40, 064-723-4975. B150.

NARWHAL AND HER PLANKTON PRESENTS MADAM COMMUNE

Post-punk trio PLOT perform tracks from their much-anticipated new album joined by indie counterparts Parim and Beam Wong and Friends. Mar 22, 9pm. De Commune, 1/F, Liberty Plaza, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 061-7174365. B250 includes 1 drink.

SUMMER DRESS, STYLISH NONSENSE, VAN TWOLIPS

Panda Records presents a night of dream-pop and experimental sounds featuring local talents Summer Dress, Stylish Nonsense and Brussels-based Van Twolips. Tickets TBA. Mar 22, 8pm.

Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 089-8898059.

DOOD/DEUM X LOYSHY *SWARM TRIP!

A night of alternative rock and shoegaze music headlined My LIfe As Ali Thomas and supported by Follow, HiijarB, Kegarow and Stoic. Tickets TBA. Mar 22, 6pm. Loyshy, 744/2 Soi Phayanak, 085-018-5575.

The Brussels-based dream-pop band

THEATER & DANCE AS YOU LIKE IT

Bangkok Community Theatre revives the Shakespeare classic comedy.

Grab tickets at www. bangkokcommunitytheatre.com. Mar 22-31, 7:30pm. 3/F, BNH Hospital, 9/1 Convent Rd. B500.

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Big International Concerts Coming Up

FILM

Metz

Sam Smith

THE AVALANCHES

The Aussie electronic music outfit known for their sample-heavy, anything-goes approach to music will perform a DJ set as part of a Full Moon party-inspired event at Siwilai City Club on Mar 31. They’re best known for their 2000 album Since I Left You, a patchwork of reportedly more than 3,500 vinyl samples that spawned hits like the title track and "Frontier Psychiatrist." Their 2016 follow-up, Wildflower bore indie hits like "Because I'm Me" and collaborations with Kevin Parker of Tame Impala, Danny Brown and Ariel Pink. Opening acts are Raji Rags (Boiler Room/Livin’ Proof) and the Teddy Ska Band. Tickets are B1,500 at Ticketmelon.com or B1,800 on the door. Mar 31, Siwilai City Club, 5/F, Central Embassy, Phloen Chit Rd., 02-160-5631.

JAKE BUGG

The retro-styled British singer/songwriter will perform live at the appropriately old-school Scala theater on May 1. The concert is part of the

troubadour’s world tour in support of his fourth album, Hearts That Strain. Expect singalong hits like “Broken,” “Two Fingers” and “How Soon the Dawn.”

Tickets available on Mar 17 at B2,600 via Thaiticketmajor.com. May 1, 8pm.

Scala Theater, Siam Square Soi 2.

METZ

The Canadian punk rockers make their Bangkok debut on Jun 2 as part of an Asia tour to promote their 2017 album on Sub Pop records, Strange Peace. Expect an energetic set filled with tracks like “Drained Lake” and ”Cellophone.”

Support from local rockers Death Of Heather, Pistols99 and Bobkat, with a DJ set from Nyon. Tickets will be onsale for B650 at the end of Mar via www.eventpop.me or B850 at the door. Jun 2, 7pm. NOMA, RCA Block C, 21/66 Rama 9 Rd., 080-939-7899.

B650-850.

NOTHING BUT THIEVES

Brit-rock five-piece Nothing But Thieves take over Moonstar Studio 8

Opening

A WRINKLE IN TIME (USA)

HURRICANE HEIST (USA)

Sci-Fi. Based on the bestselling book, a middle-school student journeys beyond Earth to rescue her father.

Action/Thriller. A team of robbers attempt to break into a US Mint facility at the same time that a powerful hurricane arrives.

MAZINGER Z (JAPAN)

BBC EARTH: ONE AMAZING DAY (ENGLAND)

Jake Bugg

on Aug 2 with passionate tracks like “If I Get High” and “Amsterdam,” as well as more from their latest album, Broken Machine. Tickets go on sale via Ticketmelon.com this Mar 11 at the early bird price of B2,300 (rising to B2,600). Aug 2, 8pm. Moonstar Studio 8, Ladprao Soi 80. B2,300-2,600.

Animation. Based on a popular manga series, scientist Koji Kabuto and his friends use a giant robot to save Earth from Dr. Hell.

Documentary. Over the course of one day, this sequel to the popular documentary Earth takes a journey across the natural world.

SAM SMITH

The Grammy award-winning British crooner makes his Bangkok live debut on Oct 28 as part of his massive world tour on the back of his latest album The Thrill Of It All. Smith rose to recognition in 2012 through "Latch," a collaborative single with electronic music duo Disclosure. His debut album, In the Lonely Hour, followed in 2014, blending soul, pop, R&B and a touch of vulnerability in hits like “Lay Me Down” and “Stay with Me.” Ticket details TBA. Oct 28, 8pm. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4445.

MONSTER FAMILY (USA)

THIS IS YOUR DEATH (USA)

Animation. A family party is interrupted when a witch turns each member into monsters.

Thriller. A new reality TV show capitalizes off its participants’ on-screen deaths.

AFTER SHOCK (THAILAND)

THE PRESENCE (THAILAND)

Horror. Three ghost stories that revolve around one time of day: 3am.

Horror. A story set around the inherited ritual for honoring Loei’s guardian angel, Phaya Than.

LEGEND OF THE DEMON CAT (CHINA)

Drama/Fantasy. In the reign of the Tang Dynasty, the appearance of a demon cat sets off paranormal activity in the town of Chang An.

ART

Upcoming

Different Beauty to the Oriental Soul

DO NOT LOOK AT ME

Mika Tamori’s confrontational multimedia artwork questions the differences between humans and animals.

Through Mar 21. Cartel Artspace, Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Soi 22.

Free.

DIFFERENT BEAUTY TO THE ORIENTAL SOUL

Artists Korodol Kuljasiri, Chinnasri Janmanee, Paramat Lueng-on, Phantouch Wongpakdee, Sanamchai Puangraya and Ittiphon Phattarachon each examine what constitutes Asian beauty. Through Mar 30. Sathorn 11 Art Space, 404 Sathorn Soi 11, 02-0041199. Free.

KMA SCULPTURE

Kma Sirisamphan showcases 5 years worth of sculptures that explore the truth of life from a positive perspective. Through Mar 31. Chang Chui,

Side Reel

460/8 Sirindhorn Rd., 081-817-2888.

Free.

GAMES AND POLITICS

In this interactive exhibition, Communication Design students of Chulalongkorn University use games as a way to discuss political issues like armed conflict, migration and governmental surveillance. Mar 16-Apr 12.

CommeDe Building, Chulalongkorn University, Phayathai Rd., 02-2184492. Free.

I-SOLATED BEINGS

Torlarp Larpjaroensook (Thailand) and Andreas Schulenburg (Denmark) team up to explore the differences and commonalities of their cultures across a diverse set of artworks. Mar 17-Apr 22.

S.A.C. Subhashok The Arts Centre, Soi Phrom Chit, 02-662-0299. Free.

SIDE REEL

A motion pictures installation by Ja-

At Dawn

kawal Nilthamrong examining the operation of gold mines in Pijit and Phayao, based on written history and his own childhood experiences. Mar 14-25. BACC, 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02214-6630. Free.

PACIFIC RIM UPRISING (USA)

BACKSTABBING FOR BEGINNERS (USA)

Fantasy/Action. Stacker Pentecost’s son takes on his father’s mantle to command the next generation of Jaeger pilots in a fight to save the world.

Drama/Thriller. Based on a true story, a young UN officer exposes a conspiracy related to the death of his predecessor.

AT DAWN

Paintings, drawings and mixed-media artworks by young artists Supaporn Chulaka, Ponpassapon Bunyaritthanone, Tan Kositpipat and Terdtanwa Kanama exploring semi-surreal and abstract concepts. Mar 20-Apr 28. Ardel’s Third Place Gallery, 137-137/1 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 02-4222092. Free.

SPARK: ONE SHOT ONE MINUTE

A single evening exhibition calling on attendees to use photos to tell a story on how they inspire or affect their lives. Mar 24, 6pm. House of Lucie, 1 Ekkamai Soi 8, 095-478-9987.

SPECIAL SCREENING DOC CLUB THEATER: A MATTER OF TASTE

The Documentary Club is hosting a screening of A Matter of Taste: Serving Up Paul Liebrandt, which follows the eponymous young chef whose restaurant was given three stars by the New York Times. The screening will be followed with the talk on molecular gastronomy led by writer and cooking enthusiast Anusorn Tipayanon.

Mar 18, 5:30pm. Doc Club Theater, Warehouse 30, Charoenkrung Soi 30. B100.

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