BK Magazine 610 October 9, 2015

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BK MAGAZINE NO. 610 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com

VEGGING OUT What you need to eat this Jay Fest

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page 3 06 cover story

Go Vego

Mind Craft

4 upfront

10 escapes

Film Buff

Art and Seoul

14 avenue

16 fashion

Hot Wheels

Good Sports

18 bites

27 BK Now

Sweet Overload

Park Life

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 Writers Vasachol Quadri, Lily Kittisrikangwan Staff Writer Pinnyada Tanitnon Junior Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Junior Writers Natcha Sanguankiattichai, Bonnie Sananvatananont 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

Where to find us!

The Asia City Media Group

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 Junior Sales Associates Kittiya Darachai, Sirada Tilaganont

Administrator Yaovaluck Srisermsri Accountant Manita Bangmoung

Regional Marketing Manager Pavida Chitprasertsuk Marketing Executive Walaipan Anotaiyuenyong Marketing Service Associate Chochat Masrat IT Manager Takrit Jitjaroen

Cover Panita Thiraphapong

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

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

Contributors Rob Brezsny, Kathy MacLeod Interns Kantita Leangcharoenpong, Theerada Moonsiri, Jirashaya Chairayus, Nutrada Sottivoranan, Sunputt Puangpet, Thaparit Lomsucka, Phattrapon Pichitphan

This Oct 14, join Bangkok’s artisanal charter drafters at the Slow Constitution Outdoor Market Fest To celebrate the announcement of the new 200-member National Reform Steering Assembly (NRSA), who will take over the job of drafting Thailand’s new constitution from the disbanded National Reform Council, the government has announced a one-day slow-life market to help get the public involved in the charter-drafting process.

Taking place this Wed Oct 14, on the anniversary of the 1973 uprising, NRSA x Maison Rabbit present Slow Constitution Outdoor Market Fest promises to educate urban Bangkok on constitution handicrafts with a series of fun workshops.

“The public will get to learn firsthand the slow approach to returning a country to democracy,” said Slow Constitution spokesperson Somchai Sirimongkol, while sipping on a flat white and making ink line drawings of cats on window sills.

“There’s a simple pleasure that comes from taking one’s time, and we want to show the public that that’s as true of democracy as it is of growing your own cactus garden.”

The day will feature a series of workshops led by 10 of the NRSA’s top artisanal charter-drafting craftspeople. Visitors are invited to try drafting their very own constitutions on handpressed Japanese paper, which they can take home and put to a referendum with their families.

All workshops will take place in a homey, garden-like vibe with music from popular local indie artists like Analogue Dolphin, Jelly Wave and The Garden Friends. As well as constitution workshops, you can expect all your favorite food trucks for homemade, organic refreshments, along with stalls selling the best locally produced arts and crafts.

On top of all this, at 2pm, local architect Prateep Na Ayutthaya will be giving a seminar on “charter drafting and the design economy: why it makes sense to be slow.” (Earlybird tickets B900 on Facebook.)

The first 100 people to arrive will receive a free Slow Constitution indigo tie-dye tote bag and pillowcase.

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, October 9, 2015

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upfront HOT OR NOT

Hot: Low-cost hacking Not: Firewalls Thailand might just have the most adorable computer hackers in the world.

Forget masked youths in server rooms staring at green binary code; just put some aunties in an internet cafe, show them the F5 key and watch as Government Mainframe tumbles. You can take our freedom of speech; just don’t mess with our social media.

Hot: Old criminals

Not: New terrorists

We’re coming to the end of the bombing investigation, and the dramatic conclusion is… They all did it! The Uighurs were in league with the people smugglers who were in league the Red Shirts who were in league with the man in Dubai. It seems a couple non-terrorist killers may go to jail after all, though.

From the Santika manager to the Mercedes bus stop guy, it’s like a greatest hits parade of the past 10 years is back on trial.

INTERVIEW HAL Film School owner Dhan Plewtianyingtawee, 31, wants Bangkok cinemas to look beyond Hollywood and local blockbusters, and he’s doing something about it. His new venture, HAL Distribution, independently finances the release of small movies from around the world in Thai cinemas, starting with the 2014 Ukrainian silent film Tribe, which is currently screening at Paragon Cineplex and Esplanade Ratchada. Here, he discusses what it takes to bring quality cinema to new audiences.

How did you get into movie distribution?

Hot: Armchair foodies Not: Michelin-star somtam We thought Bangkok would be happy that Somtum Der, a local restaurant which opened a branch in New York, won itself a Michelin star. But no.

That’s outrageous, you say. There’s better somtam on your street corner than in New York, you argue; and what do those phony Frenchies know about judging somtam anyway, you ask rhetorically. Well, aren’t you a merry bunch.

I’d been working on short movies for a decade before I began HAL Film School in 2012. My friends Tanwarin Sukkhapisit (Insects in the Backyard) and Nawapol Thamrongrattanarit (Mary is Happy) were teaching there but they also had their own side projects. I kind of wanted something else to do, too. I love watching movies so much, but it pissed me off that Thai movie distributors didn’t import the movies I wanted to see. So I started doing it myself.

Is it that easy?

Hot: Parking spaces

Not: Commuting

Sukhumbhand has proposed that you can’t buy a new car unless your house has a parking space, and Bangkokians love him for it. Or at least the only Bangkokians who matter: the ones who have parking spaces. Perhaps this isn’t the move we’ve been waiting for to put an end to our world-beating average commute time of two hours, though. Aren’t half of the people living in Bangkok actually registered as living upcountry?

It’s pretty easy to get movies. Once you have the name of the movie you want, just Google it to find a distributor and email them. That’s it. The hardest part is in Thailand, dealing with reluctant theater operators, paranoid censorship boards, going through the edit and subtitle process, and promoting it. Plus, I can’t even count the hours we have to spend

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watching sample movies and discussing how we should distribute our movie. It’s a lot of work.

What kind of movies do you look for?

I have no genre preferences. I love all movies, but mostly those from Europe. My idea is to bring in movies that aren’t formulaic. What’s so exciting about watching a movie where everything is digested for you? It’s like eating a meal that someone has already chewed for you. I want to promote those movie-makers who have the courage and ambition to make movies as pieces of art and don’t care they make money.

Can’t we just see these movies online?

The first film I’m distributing is a silent picture from the Ukraine called Tribe. If you see it at home, there will always be something ruining the experience. You’ll never get the tension you can feel in the theater.

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Are they expensive to get?

I’ve been quite surprised. I don’t find them expensive at all. Some movies can be in the hundreds of thousands of baht but others are less. I finance it from my film school and family business, Basilico restaurants.

Why should people see auteur cinema?

There’s nothing wrong with blockbusters. They can be great, like Terminator 2, it’s brilliant. But films like Terminator 5 Genesis? Seriously? I just want to change people’s perception that indie movies are hard to watch. They’re not. Just open your mind. A good movie; you can watch it in your 20s and still remember it when you’re 90. I believe watching movies can be a life-changing experience. It can trigger something in you and change your perception on life. Interview by Monruedee Jansuttipan HAL Distribution’s next film is White God, a movie from Hungary about an abandoned dog. It hits theaters Oct 15.

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THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

by Kathy MacLeod kathymacleod.blogspot.com

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GREEN EATS

With the Vegetarian Festival approaching (Oct 13-21), here’s where to find the best meat-free dishes in town. By Natcha Sanguankiattichai and Lily Kittisrikangwan

1.

THE VEGAN BREAKFAST SPECIAL AT CHOMP (B170)

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V

5.

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THE SPICY STIR-FRIED WILD BOAR AT LOVING HUT (B140)

V

J

Here’s a hearty breakfast plate that doesn’t need eggs to make you drool. The slices of vegan bacon have a real smoky aroma, and are accompanied with roast vegetables, a well-seasoned mixed salad and a selection of nicely presented organic fruit. The highlight, though, is the gluten-free and lactose-free bread, which chef-owner Gili Back packs with plenty of superfoods like chia and sesame seeds, apple cider vinegar to fill you up.

The huge menu at this branch of a global chain of strictly vegan restaurants covers Thai, Chinese, Western and even Japanese items like sashimi, sushi and katsu sets. The “wild boar” stir-fry replaces the meat with konjac and soya protein imported from Malaysia.

424 Rama 3 Soi 20, 02-291-5074

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Samsen Soi 1, 084-098-8633

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THE VEGAN PIZZA AT GOVINDA (FROM B180)

THE PUMPKIN HUMMUS AT MAY KAIDEE (B100)

The homey, all-vegetarian Italian restaurant does all the classics. Worth a try is their version of pizza topped with vegan cheese—the texture’s surprisingly close to the real thing.

6/5 Sukhumvit Soi 22, 02-663-4970

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THE VEGETARIAN DINNER SET AT CHAKRABONGSE DINING (B2,000/PERSON)

V In addition to rotating daily set menus, the riverside restaurant offers a delectable vegetarian set menu comprising three small appetizers, five main dishes and a Thai dessert. We especially like the corn fritter that has subtle curry paste flavors. Note that reservations are required, at least two days in advance.

VR

This well-known veggie establishment’s most distinctive dish is not to be missed. The mashed pumpkin gets mixed with crushed cashew nuts, some soya protein, a heaped tablespoon of sesame, spring onions and coriander for a bowl of hummus that’s light yet full of vibrant flavors and textures.

396/1 Maharaj Rd., 02-222-1290.

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59 Tanao Rd., 02-629-4413. Open daily 9am-10pm

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33 Samsen Rd., 02-281-7699

3.

THE GRILLED SHIITAKE STEMS AND HERBAL STICKY RICE AT BAAN SUAN PHAI SUKAPHAB (B50)

J Though no longer in the Baan Aree vegetarian food center, this no-frills but reliable vegetarian khao gaeng spot still offers a plethora of tasty meat-free dishes at low prices. Their take on moo ping is truly impressive: skewered shiitake stems perfectly grilled to be slightly salty without leaving any other flavors behind.

Pair them with the sticky rice cooked with finely-chopped lemongrass and galangal.

Phahon Yothin Rd., next to the Shell gas station, 085-568-6810. BTS Ari

4.

THE SPAGHETTI PESTO AT MANGO (B200)

J

The massive menu at this one-year-old veggie addition to Khao San features dishes colorfully made and carefully packed with nutritious ingredients. And Mango successfully delivers its progressive take on vegetarian food with possibly the most colorful pesto in town, combining basil, crushed cashew nuts, macadamia, kidney beans, water chestnuts and taro.

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V VEGAN No meat, dairy or honey

R RAW All ingredients prepared below 48 degrees Celsius

J JAY Strictly vegan and also free of pungent vegetables like garlic and onion (เจ) Note: These dishes are vegetarian and are all served at restaurants with a solid range of veggie dishes. Some of these restaurants also serve meat.

20 Tanao Rd., 082-457-9071, 084-908-4881

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ADVERTORIAL

MICE Sustainability Master Plan As leading businesses around the world turn to sustainable means of growth, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) has released the MICE Sustainability Master Plan to pave the way for Bangkok to become Asia’s preeminent MICE destination.

Here, Nichapa Yoswee, MICE Capabilities Director at TCEB, explains the key priorities of the MICE Sustainability Master Plan Framework and why sustainability is essential to Thailand’s MICE industry.

FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED

THE MASTER PLAN

SUSTAINABLE MIND

Sustainability in the MICE industry is

The MICE Sustainability Master Plan

Sustainability isn’t just a matter of

pretty new in Asia, which means we have

is our guide to ensuring Bangkok

management, it’s an entire mind-set.

a golden opportunity to be a leader in

becomes a leading sustainable MICE

We try to groom local operators to focus

the movement. The MICE industry is

city in Asia within the next 10 years.

on sustainability in every aspect of

a service sector that has a big impact

We have set many benchmarks in

their business. Questions like “Will this

on society at large and sustainable

categories such as community and

impact the environment?” must be first

practices are crucial way for business

stakeholder engagement, education,

and foremost in the minds of anyone

to differentiate themselves from

incentives, PPP (private-public

working in the MICE industry. We’re

competitors. Now is the time to step up

partnerships), networking and

already finding success, here.

and be a leader in your field.

marketing communications. Bangkok is really well positioned to become a sustainable MICE hub of Southeast Asia.

Six Key Priorities of the MICE Sustainability Master Plan

1

Strategy and Governance Create a Strategic MICE Sustainability Master Plan for the MICE industry and ensure its

4

Product and Capabilities Implement program and products to elevate and enhance the capabilities, quality and

successful implementation is managed by an effective

competitiveness of the MICE industry, such as improving

team and strong governance structure, including the

and expanding national standards to potential ASEAN

establishment of a MICE Sustainability Committee in

standards, developping national experts in event

collaboration with TCEB board members and stakeholders.

sustainability and establish a MICE academy to create future leaders and raise basic knowledge of MICE sustainability.

2

“

Nichapa Yoswee, MICE Capabilities Director at TCEB.

Sustainability isn’t just a matter of management, it’s an entire mindset. We try to groom local operators to focus on sustainability in every aspect of their business.

Stakeholder Engagement Identify, cultivate and nurture key strategic alliances to ensure that an effective master plan

5

Business Development Use sustainability as an engine for economic growth by developing a sales program to attract

is delivered which aligns with and supports the national

and create new events about sustainability. Define

development agenda, such as establishing an inter-

strategies to target and attract global events about

ministerial collaborative sustainability alliance to develop

sustainability and target multicultural and LGBT audiences

relationships with key government agencies.

to attract diverse events and groups.

3

6

Policy and Incentives Develop policies and incentives that inspire investment, development and management

Marketing Communications Build a strong marketing platform that engages with national and international audiences to

of a globally competitive sustainable MICE industry,

build Thailand’s sustainable MICE brand, demonstrate

while ensuring that a regulatory framework protects

leadership and inspire greater action.

public interest and ensures environmental and social stewardship.

Master Plan Goals

• Accelerate Destination Sustainability

• Accelerate Economic Growth

• Catalyze Innovation & Capabilities

• Build Thailand Brand Reputation

“

By

To get more information, please visit www.micecapabilities.com

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8.

12.

THE BROCCOLI BURGER AT BROCCOLI REVOLUTION (B220)

THE BABY CARROT AND AVOCADO SALAD AT QUINCE (B260)

This talk-of-the-town dish takes the vegetarian burger to another level. The patty, made with broccoli and quinoa and bound together with quinoa powder, is firm and flavorful, nothing like the familiar mush you get from most veggie burgers. The cranberry-charcoal bun, mango salsa and dill spread make a perfect combination.

RJ

899 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-662-5002. BTS Thong Lo

Sukhumvit Soi 45. 02-662-4478

9.

THE SPICY TEMPEH SALAD AT JOY LUCK CLUB (B140)

V

Homey, 20 years old, and run by a family who’ve filled it with their personal collection of old records and toys, there’s a lot to like about Joy Luck Club. The menu, while not strictly vegetarian, has got a wide range of healthy, meatfree dishes. One of the newer items here sees a fusion of Indonesian soybean and syrupy Thai sweet-spicy sauce joined by diced pumpkin, carrots, mushrooms, green peas and onion— simply some of the best tempeh we’ve tried.

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New head chef Cameron Barker has made plenty of vegetarian options including this simple yet so refreshing salad. The vibrant flavors of orange, coriander, fennel and lime juice complement the crispy baby carrot while the creamy avocado adds some richness.

13.

THE TANDOORI CREAMY BROCCOLI AT

INDUS (B280)

Vegetarians don’t only have to stick to paneer (cottage cheese) when it comes to tandoori dishes. These marinated broccoli florets have creamy and flavorful stems, while barbecuing in a tandoori oven gives a pleasurable aroma and smokiness.

71 Sukhumvit Soi 26. 02-258-4900, 02-661-5279

18 Phra Sumen Rd., 02-629-3112, 086-081-4433

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10.

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THE DEEP-FRIED TOFU FINGER WITH SPICY SWEET & SOUR DIP AT ANOTAI (B155)

(B210)

J

J Coated in batter and seasoned ever-so-slightly with white sesame, this might be the city’s ultimate deep-fried tofu—neither bland nor oily. The fried basil and chili pepper, sweet and sour sauce and sesame powder sprinkles make for good accompaniments, too.

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976/17 Soi Rama 9, Rim Klong Sam Sen Rd., 02-641-5366. MRT Phra Ram 9

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22-24 Chakkaphatdiphong Rd., 02-629-9214

Though fried rice with Chinese black olives is a restaurant staple, it doesn’t make it onto many veggie menus—perhaps because of all that salt and oil. Here, the chef manages to pull off the dish while sticking to a health-friendly concept, washing the saltiness from the olives and restoring flavor with condiments like lime, chili, pan-fried tofu and pickled vegetables.

65 Sukhumvit Soi 1, 02-254-8880

16.

THE DETOX ANTIOXIDANTS AT DRESSED (S: B189, L: B239)

THE GRILLED EGGPLANT, BABA GANOUSH, KAMPOT PEPPER AND PARMESAN AT SEVEN SPOONS (B290) This rustic-looking, Middle Eastern-influenced dish gets most of its serious goodness from the deeply flavored baba ganoush. The accompanying grilled eggplant, walnut, parmesan and pink pepper add texture and spice. Part of chef Somkiat Pairojmahakij’s special vegetarian menu, the dish is available throughout October.

15.

THE KHAO PAD NAM LIAB AT NA AROON

R

14.

THE DEEP FRIED HOME-MADE TOFU AT DIN TAI FUNG (B220)

J

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A lot of the salads and wraps on Dressed’s menu can be pretty bland. But not this one.

The Detox salad combines some of the best veggie items from the list of more than 50 customizable items. The bold characteristics of roasted beets, baby spinach, roasted garlic and sundried tomatoes provide flavor, while carrots and broccoli add crunch, sunflower seeds provide some crispiness and the blueberry pomegranate vinaigrette jazzes the whole thing up with some fruitiness. An easy choice for the lunch rush hour.

G/F, Mercury Ville, 540 Phloen Chit Rd. 02-658-6688.

BTS Chit Lom, Sathorn and Paragon branches

On top of the veggie version of xiao long bao (Shanghai dumplings) made with four mushrooms and truffle oil, this year’s special jay menu includes this flavorful fried tofu with water chestnut, black fungus and carrot.

7/F, CentralWorld, Rama 1 Rd. BTS Chit Lom

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17.

THE YUM SAAB GAI GORB AT MAY VEGGIE HOME (B159)

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20

RJ

Chef Pornnapat Lawasut’s creations are solid proof that vegan food doesn’t have to be tasteless.

Among all the flavorful dishes, the yum saab gai gorb (Thai-style deep-fried vegetarian-chicken spicy salad) stands out with its bold, spicy, sweet and sour sauce; and the fried chicken made from Spa food’s premium-grade soy product.

Bangkok’s favorite vegan bakery takes a walk on the savory side with three Japanese-inspired sushi options, all of which come in two sizes.

4/F Mercury Ville, Phloen Chit Rd. 087-443-3728.

BTS Chit Lom

8/3 Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-118-2967. BTS Asok

18.

THE JAY FRIED CHICKEN AT DEMI (B200)

18

21

J

Made with four different soy products, namely yuba (tofu skin), kinu tofu, gomu dofu (sesame tofu) and soymilk, this cold dish radiates goodness. Even for those who aren’t fond of tofu and soymilk, the side kombu shoyu adds a complex flavor and makes it that much easier to enjoy.

21/15 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 081-890-7787. BTS Thong Lo

19.

CAFE (B290)

J

22.

1/40 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-258-7573. BTS Phrom Phong

PUMPKIN TAGLIOLINI AT LUCE (B240)

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25

19

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THE MANGALORE MASALA DOSA AT DOSA

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RJ

Recently reopened after a four-month break (the owner was running an ultramarathon across America), this quaint vegetarian cafe still nails the signature club sandwich, in which a mix of tofu and turmeric replaces the typical boiled egg, served with veggie bacon, lots of crispy iceberg lettuce and avocado.

56/3 Pan Rd., 02-637-9541. BTS Surasak

20.

25.

THE KING OF TOFU AT SUSTAINA ORGANIC RESTAURANT (B230)

RJ

Demi is a vegetarian force striking out against fake-tasting faux meats that does a really good job at recreating vegetarian versions of typical Taiwanese food. The fried chicken, made from lion’s mane mushroom, reaches very close to the real thing—juicy and flavorful.

THE CLUB SANDWICH AT BONITA SOCIAL

24.

THE AVOCADO INSIDE OUT ROLL AT VEGANERIE (S: B145, L: B235)

In this pasta dish, the taglioni is substituted for strips of thinly-sliced semi-dried Japanese pumpkin. A little chewy, a little crisp and deliciously sweet, well complemented by the aromatic basil truffle pesto and black truffle slices. Part of a raw, vegan menu running through the end of Oct. Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn, 33/1 Sathorn Rd. 02-210-8100. BTS Surasak

THE GAENG KUA AT KHUN CHURN (B150)

J

Hailing from Chiang Mai, the vegetarian restaurant serves up a varaiety of meat-free Thai food.

The curries served here are made with cereal cream instead of coconut milk, making them more creamy while still keeping the authentic northern flavors.

G/F, Bangkok Mediplex, Sukhumvit Soi 42. 02-7136599. BTS Ekkamai

21.

THE HUMMUS AT NADIMOS (B140)

RJ

Simple, mellow and one of the best in town. Just this, some tabouleh and a pita bread makes a fine meal.

Baan Silom, Silom Soi 19. 02-266-9081. BTS Surasak

23.

KING (B195)

V The specialty here is Southern Indian dosa—giant rice crepes with various curried fillings—and they don’t disappoint. The Mangalore-style dosa crepe, made from fermented rice and lentil batter, is a real highlight, stuffed with mildly spiced mashed potato and onion. Served with a coconut and chives dip and sambar soup.

153/7 Sukhumvit Soi 11/1, 02-651-1700. BTS Nana

26.

THE HAWAIIAN PIZZA AT RASAYANA RETREAT (B170)

RJ Also operating as a retreat and spa, the “raw living food cafe” serves up strictly raw vegan dishes. Though it looks unconventional, the toppings of tomato, pineapple and cashew-nut sauce do evoke the flavors of a typical Hawaiian pizza, while the crispy base, made from sunflower and flaxseed, is tasty and packed full of minerals.

57 Soi Prom-mitr, Sukhumvit Soi 39. 02-662-4803.

BTS Phrom Phong

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escapes SOUTH KOREA

Seoul Searching The new wave of local artists, K-pop stars and street shows brightening up the old paths of Korea’s capital. By Monruedee Jansuttipan

K-Live

National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Modern Times You don’t need to be a K-pop fan to enjoy K-Live (www.kperformance.org), the self-proclaimed “next generation of a cultural stage show.” It combines digital techniques such as hologram, augmented reality and virtual reality to create a virtual concert of K-pop megastars Big Bang, 2NE1 and the international phenomenon Psy with his Gangnam Style troops on the stage. There’s also an amazing view from the K-Live terrace of Iraqi-English starchitect Zaha Hadid’s Dongdaemun Design Plaza (see below), letting you see the building in its complete form. If you want to see even more K-stars, the newly opened Grevin Museum (www.grevin-seoul.com/en) is full of Korean heartthrobs alongside world-famous figures like Steve Jobs and John Lennon, as well as memorable movie scenes like E.T. biking through the air.

Built in 2006, Some Sevit (www.somesevit.com), aka Floating Islands, is a complex of three illuminated structures on the Han River. The most exciting is Yevit, a giant floating LED screen playing various world-class art and orchestra performances, which you can view while sitting on breezy outdoor theater seats. You can also take a cycle ride with locals around the area, since Some Sevit sits near the Hangang (River) Cycling Trail, a handsome 80-kilometer track that winds its way along the river. Bike rental (3,000 won per hour) is easy, requiring you to show your passport at the rental station under the Banpo Bridge, where you’ll also find fountain shows from 7:309pm (20 minutes per show).

Rather hang with a younger crowd? Head to Hongdae Street Market on Friday and Saturday nights. It’s full of street performances from rappers, guitarists and dance troops. On Theater Street, near Daehangno University, you’ll also find plenty of live shows hosted by independent theaters that groom young performers. (Note: Korean language skills are required to know what’s going on.) Even if you’re not into drama, this area is totally worth visiting just for the people-watching, as it’s one of the hippest spots for the young crowd to come and eat and drink.

Old Meets New Dongdaemun area was once an old army compound. Now, it’s at the forefront of a new Seoul. Thanks to the opening of the iconic Dongdaemun Design Plaza (www.ddp.or.kr) in 2009, it has become the center of the city’s creative industries. Visit the Design Lab on its second floor to browse the latest work from leading Korean designers. Though futuristic in looks, the compound still preserves the history of Dongdaemun’s ruins, integrating them into the landscape architecture to become the Dongdaemun History & Culture Park museum. Entrance is free.

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Get some exercise, see incredible views of the modern Seoul skyline and also savor some history by dedicating half a day to walking along the Fortress Wall of Seoul, an 18.6km-long wall built during the Joseon Dynasty (13th century AD). You can easily combine the walk with visits to old settlements like Naksan Park and Ihwa Mural Village, which is now full of cheerful wall paintings from local artists.

Music Library+Understage

Sight and Sound Once the neighborhood of choice for foreigners living in Korea, Itaewon has now transformed into a hub for culture. Start your day exploring at Leeum Samsung Museum of Art (leeum.samsungfoundation.org) to see its private collection dating back to 14th century A.D. On the main street, you’ll find the newly opened Music Library+Understage (library.hyundaicard.com), a music-focused complex storing more than 10,000 vinyl records along with an archive of music magazines, including Rolling Stone’s first issue from 1967.

Although visiting the museum requires you to either own or be with someone who has a local Hyundai credit card, the cafe and terrace are free to visit anytime, and often play host to aspiring local artists performing small gigs. Next to it is Series (www.byseries.com), a multi-brand shops selling neo-vintage clothes and handmade wooden furniture.

Gyeongbokgung Station

Ihwa Mural Village

Art Walk Most of the city’s galleries are clustered in the old part of town around Gyeongbokgung Palace, where even the underground Gyeonbokgung Station serves as a vast public exhibition space. Top galleries include Kukje Gallery (www.kukje.org) and Hakgojae Gallery (www.hakgojae.com)—two prominent local galleries praised for driving the Korean art scene onto the global stage—as well as other contemporary art spaces Jean Gallery (www.jeanart.net), Leeahn Gallery (www.leeahngallery.com) and Gallery Simon (www.gallerysimon.com), which has a handsome cafe on the rooftop. The area is also home to the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (mmca.go.kr/eng), which exhibits local films, paintings, concerts and performances. Entrance is free on Wednesday evenings. While in the area, make the time to stroll around Samcheong-dong for local crafts, arts, clothes and coffee. Don’t miss Heartist (blog.naver. com/heart_ist), a five-story fashion CSR store and space that sells lifestyle items and clothes from local designers and has a charming rooftop garden.

Some Sevit

Essentials AirAsia (www.airasia.com) offers the best rates for a round trip at B11,210.

Cathay Pacific (www. cathaypacific.com) starts from B19,155.

Korean Air (www.koreanair. com) B19,680.

WHERE TO STAY: Plaza Hotel Seoul (www. hoteltheplaza.com) is situated opposite City Hall and is within easy reach of all the city’s major attractions.

Rates start from B6,800.

CURRENCY: 1000 won = B30

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escapes ESCAPE ROUTES

By Pinnyada Tanitnon

CHIANG MAI

KOH KOOD

Locals Only The serene (and frighteningly expensive) Soneva Kiri (www.soneva.com/ soneva-kiri) on Koh Kood is home to nothing but pool villas spread out over an isolated peninsula accessible only by air and sea. And now the resort has come up with a deal exclusively for Thai residents (that’s you too, expats) which includes a two-night stay, daily breakfast and dinner, 50-minute spa treatment for two, and even transfers

to and from Bangkok directly to the resort via private plane. The price: B88,000 through Apr 30, 2016. Hardly cheap, we know. But during high season, you’d otherwise be paying upwards of B50,000 a night for room and breakfast alone. Don’t know what else to do in Koh Kood? Check out our guide to the quiet life at goo.gl/ZdHMji.

SAMUI

Colonial Throwback

Big Smoke

Island Records

Anantara Chiang Mai Resort recently unveiled a new drinking and dining venue, created by none other than Soho Hospitality, the team behind uber-popular Bangkok establishments Charcoal and Above Eleven. The Service 1921 Restaurant & Bar (chiangmai.anantara.com) sits in a restored colonial mansion that formerly served as the British Consulate of Chiang Mai. Reimagined as a hidden stronghold of the British government’s secret intelligence service, the venue is filled with fictitious spy paraphernalia, vintage lamps and other artifacts from the days of British teak logging interests up North, alongside colonial-style cabinets, leather armchairs and couches.

The kitchen specializes in contemporary Thai, Chinese and Vietnamese dishes.

Bangkok’s favorite cigar lounge has found its way down south. Taking up a spot inside the never-boring Beach Republic club on Lamai Beach, Whisgars Samui (www.beachrepublic. com/whisgars) offers the same fat-cat-placating mix of premium hand-rolled cigars and high-quality single-malt whiskies as its Bangkok counterparts. And if you’ve been a regular at WTF Gallery & Cafe for the past couple of years, you may also be served by a familiar face (hey Brian!).

Sadly, though, he no longer mixes cocktails. Coming on top of news that Casa Lapin has gone all barefoot luxe with its first Samui branch, it feels like Phuket’s EDM-loving Gulf Coast cousin might finally be growing up.

Thirty minutes from Koh Samui, the tiny Koh Madsum consists of four things: forest, beach, amazing Gulf views, and what we reckon is the cheapest private island resort in the country; U Koh Madsum Koh Samui (goo.gl/QFjWuE).

And it just got even cheaper thanks to a couple of new deals running through Dec 31. Book seven days before your trip and the price of a 46-sq-meter tented villa drops from B4,259 to B3,799, while the all-out 93-sq-meter beachfront pool villa is down from B18,499 to B11,299. Both rates are per night and include daily breakfast (served all day long— yay!), roundtrip boat rides from Samui, and the usual beach resort things like kayaking and snorkeling. Reserve at 077953-009 or reserve@ukohmadsum samui.com.

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

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avenue

NEW SHOP

Pimp Your Ride It was only a matter of time before Bangkok’s bike obsession met with the craze for personalization. The latest specialist bicycle shop, Tint Bike, offers classic road bikes that customers can specify in a whole range of color combos for frame, tires and rims. The standard Tint Bicycle Signature features a lightweight Hi-Ten steel (11kg) frame and starts from a really reasonable (the bikes are made right here) B7,500, or B8,500 if you want drop handlebars. On top of that, you’ll be paying B450 for a stainless-steel fender or B790 to choose from 22 single or dual powder coat colors. There’s also a bunch of accessories to personalize your ride even further. If you’re lucky and only have basic requirements, expect your bike to be ready within an hour, but they’ll need a day or two for fancier orders. Online purchases can be done through Facebook, with products delivered within a week. Open daily 10am-8pm. www.fb.com/tintbicycle

FASHON

NEW SHOP

BEAUTY

Young Explorer

Rare Sound

Ready to Rock

Sporty and adventurous looks were all over the runways of Thai and international brands this fall/winter. And here’s more proof. Local streetwear label DA+PP takes inspiration from Arctic travel for the Skipper’s Voyage collection. Blue-gray seascapes, icebergs, polar bears and penguins are the main motifs, printed and embroidered onto jumpers, knitted maxidresses, shirts and flared pants. Items available at 3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-0000. BTS Siam.

Garage Records has been one of Bangkok’s most reliable vinyl purveyors since it launched as an online shop a couple of years ago. Now it’s expanded into a proper shop welcoming crate-diggers on Ladprao Soi 8. Despite the tiny space, it’s packed with rare ‘80s-‘90s alternative rock finds, including both used and new stock shipped from Japan, the UK and Germany. The store feels kind of like a cafe, making it easy to sit and browse. Highlights we found include Weezer’s 1996 album Pinkerton, The Cure’s 1989 Disintegration, Stereophonics’s You Gotta Go There To Come Back, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club’s BRMC and Pulp Fiction (Music From The Motion Picture). Prices are pretty varied from B300-400 up to over 4,000. Ladphrao Soi 8 (Yeak 9), 083-839-2016. Open MonFri 4-11pm and sat-Sun 1-11pm. www.fb.com/garagerecordsshop

French luxury cosmetics brand Yves Saint Laurent Beaute has turned its grunge obsession up a notch with its latest fall/winter 2015 range. Pretty Metal combines ‘90s heroin chic with today’s bold and glossy lips. Key items include the Couture Kajal (B990), a three-in-one pencil liner (inner lid, eye-liner and eye shadow) that’s designed to give that drunken smoky-eye look.

The Couture Palette Collector eye-shadow (B2,900) comes with somber shades like brown and purple, which can be glammed up with the Rouge Volupte Shine lipstick (B1,400) available in three colors: Rose in Sound (orangey pink), Fuchsia in Grunge (deep fuchsia) and Rouge in Rock (deep red). M/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-8000. BTS Siam

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avenue FASHION

Sporty Chic Four new sportswear collections we love right now. By Vasachol Quadri

Mystic Moon tank top, B1,490

Crop top, B1,095

Glittery bustier, B999

Sweatpants, B1,495 Industrial sport bras, B2,490

Textured trousers, B2,999

Mesh crop top,B895

Adidas Superstar, B3,990

Two-tone net bra, price TBA

Track jacket vest, B2,490

Glitter cardigan, B2,699

Cosmic Creations

Haute Hippie

Street Style

Workout Ready

Taking a little break from Pharrell Williams and Kanye West, Adidas Originals has turned back to longtime collaborator Rita Ora for its fall/winter 2015 collection. Adidas Originals x Rita Ora comes under two themes: Space Shifter and Mystic Moon.

The former draws on cosmic influences, with classic sports silhouettes coming in rainbow and metallic color, against a solid black background. The latter also sticks to a spacey theme but puts more focus on surface through the use of shiny and rubberized textures.

This fall/winter, Jaspal’s sister brand Misty Mynx rolls out an all-in-one collection that spans casual, resort and sports wear. Expect ‘70s boho-inspired ethnic prints in crop tops and flared pants for daily wear, fringe cover-ups to wear at the beach and, our favorites, flower-print leggings and sport bras for the gym.

Last month Siam Center welcomed new multi-label store A-Very-Wear, which stocks cult brands from all over Asia. One of the highlights is the Shanghai-born, Singapore-based streetwear brand Yesah which adds gothic and theatrical vibes to its sporty pieces. The highlight items are the geometric-print sport bra, two-tone net bra and pleated back shirt dress.

H&M’s fall/winter collection follows a futuristic theme. But more than the others on this list, these items actually seem suitable for sports, whether it’s the ski dungarees or the horse racing-style cap. The color scheme sees a contrast between earth tones and metallic touches. Pair the glittery bustier (B999) with either straight or flared pants (B2,999) and complete the look with some zip-up outer-wear (B2,699).

2/F, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-6131510. BTS Chit Lom

Available at A-Very-Wear, 1/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-0000. BTS Siam

1/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1, 02-610-6738. BTS Siam

4/F, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-6131492. BTS Chit Lom

BEAUTY Four new anti-aging products to keep the wrinkles at bay

Timetreasure renovating cream EX, Sulwhasoo, B14,000/60ml (G/F, Central Chidlom, Phloen Chit Rd., 02-655-7512. BTS Chit Lom)

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Anti-age mask, Aroma Active, B690/100ml (available at Boots nationwide. www.aromaactives.com)

Anti-aging repairing serum, Dermaction Plus

by Watsons, B1,200/30ml (available at Watsons nationwide)

Pro-collagen quartz lift mask , Elemis , B4,200/50ml (Elemis Spa, 15/F, St. Regis Hotel, 159 Rajadamri Rd., 02-207-7779. BTS Ratchadamri)

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bites & blends DESSERT CAFE

Super Sweet Forget your slow-life high tea and go wild with the massive guilty pleasures at chef Sutinee Suntivatana’s (of Tinee Eatery) latest opening.

Sweetery is decorated in funky black and bold colors. The large open preparation counter rolls out maximalist Aussie-inspired desserts including some favorites from Tinee Eatery like Dark S’more (chocolate cookie baked a la minute on a hot skillet and topped with housemade marshmallow, chocolate sauce, toasted hazelnuts and Oreo-vanilla bean ice cream, B195) and French toast made with brioche. Other decadent highlights include the upside-down soft-serve cones dubbed Soft and Splash, piled with a variety of toppings, and the various 160ml drinks (B195) served in glass jars with Cacao Barry chocolate-coated rim, topped with whipped cream and toppings—try the Strawberry Funky (strawberry lemonade, whipped cream, fresh strawberry, meringue and a slice of cheesecake). 3/F, The Taste Thonglor, Thonglor Soi 11, 081-172-1472

BAR

RESTAURANT

WORKSHOP

Sing Sing

Premium Bros

World of Rum

If Maggie Choo’s was a Victorian colonial club hiding in a Hong Kong basement, new nightclub Sing Sing is its brash L.A. sister. Prolific Bangkok-based Aussie designer Ashley Sutton’s (Iron Fairies, Mr. Jones Orphanage, Fat Gutz to name a few) Chinoiserie fetish is here expressed in a Hollywood vision of 1930s Shanghai that’s all lanterns, red lighting and elaborate metal screens. Sutton himself describes the club as a theater ensconced in split levels and alcoves meant to evoke a dense cityscape. Though there’s no menu just yet, we’re expecting good things. Sing Sing is operated by the partners from Quince and Oskar, some of whom are wine importers and actual winemakers. Sutton himself is now making his own gin, Iron Balls, so that’s bound to feature prominently too. Sukhumvit Soi 45 (next to Quince), 097-285-6888. Open Tue-Sun 8pm-2am. BTS Phrom Phong

Gangnam-hailing Korean restaurant Bulgogi Brothers has finally arrived in Thailand with its first attempt at going premium. Bulgogi Brother Gold features elevated dishes and ingredients in addition to the barbecue specialties like unyang style bulgogi (150g minced beef heart-shaped patties, B295 for Thai ribeye or B590 for US beef) and gwanyang style bulgogi (150g of sliced beef, B240 for Thai ribeye and B480 for US beef), as well as hotpots (B550-2,300). Jazzed up Korean staples include the Stew Brothers (mix of kimchi and soybean stews, B540), King’s Bibimbap (rice with variations of vegetables and beef, B350), bonguri kimchi (B280), made from two-day-fermented mushroom, pear and apple, wrapped in cabbage, and seafood pajeon (Korean pancake, B350), which is served in slices like pizza instead of the usual rectangular pieces. 8/F, Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd. BTS Phrom Phong

Hivesters is a Bangkok tour company that offers the kind of experiences even locals haven’t tried. For its latest gathering, it’s partnered up with booze distributor Bootleggers and Thai craft spirit Lamai for the Intro to World of Alcohol: Infusion & Cocktail Making workshop this Oct 10, from 3-6pm at Tep Bar. The bar’s consulting mixologist Minway Chi and Lamai Thai Spirit owner Kaustav Bagchi will guide you through the different styles of rums, instruct you on infusing the spirit with Thai ingredients, and show you how to create your own rumbased cocktails. Participants will each be able to take home one infused rum and create three cocktails (as well as drink them). Priced at B1,500/person, there are only 20 spots available and the workshop will be conducted in English. To book, visit bit.ly/1LedeBZ. Tep Bar, 69-71 Soi Nana, 098-467-2944.

MRT Hua Lamphong

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blends 10 Great Reasons to Hit Bangkok’s Bars 1881 by Water Library

1. Thonglor and Ekka- 5. Khao San’s Be8. Art Gallermai are Finally Getting loved Cover Bands ies-slash-Bars If you want to keep things simple while Now you can admire some Some Competition The u-bend of stylish bars and restaurants near Chong Nonsi is finally living up to its reputation thanks to the arrival of three new French-leaning bars. Marcel (Sathorn Soi 10, 02- 635-3533) serves French cuisine a casual atmosphere; Revolucion Cocktails (50 Sathorn Soi 10, 02-235-4823) is the Bangkok outpost of a Shanghai-born tapas and cocktail bar; and the latest arrival, Le Cafe des Stagiaires (142/21 Sathorn Soi 12, 081-207-3077), also hails from Shanghai but has a younger, college vibe.

2. Rooftop Bars that Actually Make Sense for Locals Sure, everyone knows Bangkok is famous for its high-rise rooftop bars, but it’s not every day you want to dress up after a long tiring day at work. You’re in luck, though, thanks to choices like Red Sky at Centara Grand at CentralWorld (55/F, Centara Grand at CentralWorld, 999/99 Rama 1 Rd., 02-100-6255) and the always-trending Long Table on Sukhumvit Soi 16 (25/F, Column Building, 48 Sukhumvit Soi 16, 02-302-2557), which both offer great views and drinks amid a relatively casual atmosphere.

If you prefer a live band with your city views, you really shouldn’t miss Cloud 47 (47/F, United Center, Silom Rd., 091-889-9600).

3. Great New Bars that Feel Really Thai Tapping into Thai culture, the recently opened Tep Bar (69-71 Soi Nana, Charoenkrung Rd., 098-467-2944) has joined Studio Lam (Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661) to specialize in home-infused ya dong (herb-infused Thai moonshine) as well as Thai roots tunes. While molam provides the soundtrack at Studio Lam, Tep Bar plays host to luk krung orchestral bands every day.

4. We Have More Talented Local Bands to Watch Our music scene is packed with new and exciting bands, meaning you can pretty much catch a rocking live gig every weekend. This Friday (Oct 9), one of BK’s best new bands to watch, W Map, will perform their experimental trip-hop sounds at Jam (41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833).

Brought to you by Pernod Ricard Thailand

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drinking to Britpop anthems, Khao San is still the best place in town. One long-standing venue (despite a name change at some point) is hidden in the alley connecting Khao San and Rambutree.

999 West (Khao San Rd., 02-629-3992) offers all the standard choices of booze, plus live bands performing pop and alternative rock daily.

6. You Don’t Even Need to Drive into Town Anymore There’s life beyond Sukhumvit and Silom-Sathorn. For some authentic Thai food overlooking a pond dotted with lotus flowers, head to Waterside Restaurant Bangkok (13/16 Moo 9, Praditmanutham Rd., 02-943-9496)—it even offers karaoke for later in the night.

Over in Ratchada, Lizm (Ratchadapisek Rd., 02-913-9880) epitomizes the joys of Thai-style clubbing: massive space, live band, pocket-friendly prices. Not that it’s shabby, either: The huge central Eiffel Tower adds a bit of Las Vegas glamor to the proceedings. Boasting Modernist decor, Demaze Bar & Bistro (Ladphrao Rd., 087-962-6462) sees its central swimming pool surrounded by low, minimal seating. And if you’re looking for a solid dancing spot, EDM music has also made its way to Ramintra at the brand new Noxs Bangkok (Ekamai-Ramintra Rd., 02-539-2000) located behind Ramintra’s live music spot, 66 Station (Ekamai-Ramintra Rd., 090-515-6666).

7. You Can Now Drink in a Mall The opening of Groove at CentraWorld last year has made drinking in a mall the cool thing to do. Now after work you don’t have to worry about getting stuck in Thonglor or Ekkamai’s notorious traffic—you can get the equivalent feeling right next to your office. 1881 by Water Library (Groove@CentralWorld, Rama 1 Rd., 02-613-1778) is one of our favorite choices for tailor-made cocktails, while if you’re after wine and a chat, Wine I Love You (081-921-2016) is just around the corner.

art with a drink in hand. The latest hybrid openings around town include U Baan (Si Phraya Rd., 098-364-4475) and Whiteline (Silom Soi 8, 087-061-1117), an alternative, six-story space tucked among massage parlors. If you’re more interested in the art than the drink, then there are several less party-focused new spaces as well, among them Schemata Gallery (1/F, Liberty Tower, Thonglor, 088-088-8066) and 56th Studio (9-11 Green Connect, Sukhumvit Soi 31), which tailors its drinks according to the theme of each exhibition.

66 Station

9. Bars For Ladies What’s better than gathering your besties for some good food and drink in an awesome setting? Set in a 100-year-old house painted bright pink, Namsaah Bottling Trust (401 Silom Soi 7, 02-636-6622) just oozes nostalgia and charm jazzed up by a playful pop edge in the decor’s kitschy palette. The bar has just launched their new weekly La Femme night where ladies cam enjoy buy-one-get-one-free on the Krung Thep Cosmo from 9pm-late every Thursday.

10. You Don’t Need to Worry about Drunk Driving Anymore

Red Sky

You know about Uber, GrabTaxi and all that. But did you know you can get a personal driver driving you and your car home safely for free? U Drink I Drive (For more information, call 091-080-9108 or visit www.udrinkidrive.co.th) offers a special promotion with Chivas Regal Extra in selected bars around Bangkok like Muse Thonglor to way out on Ramintra at Noxs Bangkok and 66 Station (See No. 6) or Ratchada’s Lizm (See No. 6).

Read our story online at bit.ly/1jJyrZW for maps to these great spots.

Le Cafe des Stagiaires

Cloud 47

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bites

OPEN DOOR

Casa Lapin x Ploenchit The serious coffee institution branches out to a full restaurant.

The buzz: This sixth venue (if you include the now-closed original hole-in-the-wall) by one of Bangkok’s first niche coffee specialists Casa Lapin has gone full restaurant, with a list of well-executed if predictable all-day-dining dishes.

The decor: Easily spotted from the signature brick wall, neon-lit signage and hanging lamps, this is Casa Lapin to a T. The front of house boasts a small take-away coffee counter where you can also grab croissants and muffins at rush hour. Inside, a long wooden bar takes up half the ground floor, while there is a cozier and more private space on the mezzanine, featuring large fabric sofas and some cushions.

The food and drinks: Open early for your morning caffeine fix, this

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Casa does all the expected coffees: classic espresso (B70/single shot, B80/double) and its derivations made using a house blend, and drip coffee, French press, syphon and Aeropress (all B140) made with Chiang Dao single-origin beans. The large food menu covers every meal of the day, starting with the likes of the breakfast plate (egg, sausage, roasted potato, sauteed spinach and mushroom, crispy bacon and sourdough, B190), French toast (B190), pancakes and waffles (both B150). Healthier choices come in the form of fresh fruits with yogurt (B170) and granola with milk (B130). From 11am onwards you can order from a full menu of lunch and dinner dishes which plays things pretty safe, from barbecue chicken wings (B140), salads (from B180) and soups (from B100) to burgers (from B230), pork chops (B290) and whole-roasted chicken (B380). Also expect

the usual baked items like croissants (B65) and brownies (B90).

Aside from the coffee, boozy options include local beers like Singha, a few red and white wines (starting at B150/glass) and a list of signature cocktails (B250) created by Casa Lapin’s head barista Surapan Tanta. Try the Fill in the Blank (vodka, rose syrup, sakura syrup, apple and pineapple juice, B250) and Falling Slowly (rum, lychee liqueur, almond syrup, angostura bitter, B250).

Why you should care: Lowermost Sukhumvit was crying out for another serious coffee shop, especially one not in a mall. But we say stick to just that: the coffee. Natcha Sanguankiattichai 888/59 Mahatun Plaza, Phloen Chit Rd., 02- 651-4874. BTS Phloen Chit

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Radi Grab & Go

Tea Atelier

Cafe Neighbor

The Chop

NEW AND NOTED

Quick Stop Cutesy cupcake shop Radi has expanded to happening Mahatun Plaza in Phloen Chit. Radi Grab & Go (Mahatun Plaza, Phloen Chit Rd., 02-254-5442. BTS Phloen Chit) sits in a narrow space easily spotted thanks to its pastel pink shopfront and tables outside.

Aimed at easing the morning rush, all offerings are priced at B55, B65 or B95, differentiated by colored labels. Most of these items are easy to grab and go, like sandwiches, soups, salads, yogurt and granola, croissants and muffins, on top of the brand's cupcakes. For a savory meal, there is also sticky rice with grilled pork, sai ua (Northeastern sausage) and a rotating lunch box. Also try the smoked salmon in squid ink bread (B65). Drinks span coffee (from B55 for an espresso), tea, shakes and smoothies (B75-95).

Super Tea Cold-brew tea connoisseurs can now easily get their fix without having to wait till a weekend farmer's market or for their online

TABLE TALK

delivery to be arrive. Tea Atelier’s (www.instagram.com/teaatelier) sun-brew tea is now available at selected Tops Supermarkets (Central Chidlom, Sukhumvit Soi 19, Thonglor and Ladprao) in addition to shops like Oleaf (Sukhumvit Soi 49), The Selected (3/F, Siam Center) and Luka (Pan Rd.). Try the Ceylon lavender lime and green tea elderflower flavors.

Neighbor’s Brew After all the happening bars and food trucks, it's about time Suan Phlu welcomed a decent cafe. Run by an ex-True Coffee barista and another coffee-loving friend, Cafe Neighbor puts the focus on local beans from Doi Chang, Pha Ee, Nan and Laos' Bolaven Plateau, with an espresso setting you back B50. Other drinks include hot chocolate (B60), matcha latte (B80) and frappes (B80-100); they recommend the rose-water latte (B80/90) and cookies and cream frappe (B90). Among the homemade baked treats, we like the soft, mildly-sweet banana cake (B50). Natcha Sanguankiattichai

9/F, Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-003-6275. BTS Phrom Phong With its industrial-age decor, red banquettes and views of downtown Bangkok, this elegant steakhouse serves both its generous steaks and juicy burgers on wood-framed slate plates—a fittingly masculine gimmick. The Chop's signature is a massive tomahawk (or cote de boeuf as the French call it, B3,600/1,200g piece) but they also take great pride in their Billionaire Burger, a decadent tower of wagyu beef, truffle seasoning and foie gras (B680). For some proper beef and a standalone atmosphere, The Chop ticks all the right boxes.

Exclusive privileges for Citibank credit cardmembers.

Get Free BBQ Wings when spend 1,500 baht or more/sales slip (Limit 1 dish /card /table /sales slip) Today - 31 Dec 15

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

Simply click “Thailand” and then “Gift voucher”

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bites & blends market + Events

The Art of Dining 2015 La Scala welcomes Andrew Fairlie, the chef-owner of the eponymous two-Michelin-star restaurant in Scotland, for a series of special lunches and dinners from Oct 14-17. Prices range from B3,200 for lunch and B5,000-7,000 for dinner (Oct 13-17 only).

Vesper

Angus Zou Live in Bangkok This Oct 9-10, Vesper welcomes Angus Zou, owner of Alchemy Bar in Taipei, to guest bartend from 7pm.

Free entry. Reservations are recommended and can be made at choti@ vesperbar.com or 081-620-8879.

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

Intro to World of Alcohol: Infusion & Cocktail Making Hivesters partners up with Bootleggers and Thai craft spirit Lamai for a rum infusion and cocktail making workshop this Oct 10, from 3-6pm at Tep Bar. Only 20 spots available at B1,500/person. The workshop will be conducted in English. To book, visit bit.ly/1LedeBZ. 69-71 Soi Nana, 098-467-2944. MRT Hua Lamphong

The Sukhothai, 13/3 Sathorn Rd., 02-3448888

Mikkeller Madness On Oct 14, Mikkeller clears its chalkboard and replaces its 30 taps with new, exciting barrels. The list includes Beer Geek Breakfast, Nuclear Hop Assault and Spontandoubleblackcurrant.

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

Advertise your business with us ­ starting from B6,000

Shangri-La’s Festival of Gastronomy Angelini welcomes guest chef Enrico Bartolini, from the two-Michelin-starred Devero Restaurant in Italy on, Oct 27-31. A five-course dinner on Oct 27-30 is priced at B3,500 while the Oct 31 wine dinner is B6,000.

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

Shangri-La, 89 Soi Wat Suan Plu, Charoenkrung Rd., 02-236-7777. BTS Saphan Taksin

Deals

Credit card/Debit card payment accepted

K Village Farmers’ Market The weekend market gives you access to meet the producers and buy your food from them. Oct 10-11, 9am-5pm.

K Village, Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02-258-9919

Le Cafe des Stagiaires

Bangkok Farmers’ Market The weekend foodies market where you can buy products straight from the source takes place at Gateway Ekamai. Oct 10-11, 10am-8pm.

Gateway Ekamai, 982/22 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-108-2888. BTS Ekkamai

Ladies Night Every Wednesday at Le Cafe des Stagiaires, ladies get buy-one-get-onefree on Cosmopolitans and Liefmans beer, as well as happy hour prices all night.

142/21 Sathorn Soi 12, 081-207-3077

New Venues A Guide to Bangkok’s Best Restaurants

Brasserie Europa

Taste of Italian Wine Dinner Brasserie Europa and wine distributor Texica host a four-course Italian dinner, paired with Italian wine from Cordero di Montezemol on Oct 13 from 6:30pm with winemaker-owner Alberto Cordero di Montezemolo.

B2,400/person.

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

Exquisite & Exclusive Mushroom Dinner Chef Jean-Michel Lorain returns to his Bangkok restaurant, J’aime, on Oct 13-17 with an eight-course menu created using seasonal mushrooms (B6,999).

Sing Sing

BKmagazine.com/TopTables Sing Sing Aussie designer Ashley Sutton’s Hollywood vision of 1930s Shanghai turned into a Bangkok nightclub.

Sukhumvit Soi 45 (next to Quince), 097285-6888

M Krub The mastermind behind Chef Man serves up a modernized take on Chinese cuisine.

2/F, Mahanakhon Cube, 96 Narathiwas Rd., 02-019-8105

U Sathorn, 105, 105/1 Soi Ngam Duphli, 02-119-4899

THE EASIEST WAY TO BOOK YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS 22

Find out more at www.chope.co/toptables

BK Magazine Friday, October 9, 2015

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10/5/15 6:00 PM

bites FOOD REVIEWS

Yang Gao Gorn HHHH 97 Phahon Yothin Soi 8, 081-930-5260. Open Wed-Mon 11:30am-10pm. F B-BB. No corkage charge

Tucked deep down a residential subsoi of Phahon Yothin Soi 8, on the second floor of Frank and Release futsal field, it’s safe to say Yang Gao Gorn doesn’t rely on foot traffic. It takes effort to eat here, which might explain why it was pretty empty on our last visit. But this father-and-son-run place is baan-baan at its best: the beige walls, fake-wooden table tops and plain presentation can’t detract from the high-quality food. Staying faithful to old family recipes, the kitchen rolls out old-school dishes like choo chee prik yuak yad sai (stuffed banana pepper stir-fried in coconut milk and curry paste, B70/pepper), which has the perfect aroma, flavor and spice, despite being slightly oily.

Other dishes see traditional Thai

La Monita Urban Cantina HHHH 6/F, The Helix Quartier, The Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-003-6238. Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Phrom Phong F BB-BBB. Corkage B500

We love the original La Monita, which opened in Mahatun Plaza in 2009. With bench seating, food dumped into plastic baskets lined in brown paper and rougharound-the-edges service, it evokes a thickset auntie that lets her cooking do the talking. And what cooking! La Monita singlehandedly and forever raised the bar for Mexican food in Bangkok. Now, that auntie has a sister, La Monita Urban Cantina. She hangs out at EmQuartier’s Helix, a mall that’s all spiralling walkways and vertical gardens; and with her trendy location comes an upgraded menu that sees forays into equally trendy Peruvian options alongside Mexican dishes meant to wane us off the idea the country’s national cuisine is best enjoyed from the side of a food truck. Moreover, Mall Monita no longer serves such low-brow offerings as super-sized 12” options or jugs of margarita. You’ll have to get sloshed

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.

ingredients used impeccably, like the nuea kem (salted dried beef) in the nuea kem pad kati (stir-fried salted dried beef in coconut milk, B220) or super light and crispy nuea kem yang toob tord (grilled, pounded then deepfried salted dried beef, B180). Both dishes pack just the right amount of saltiness. In fact, the food is so good it’s hard to pick a single standout. So, while the pla salid foo (deep-fried snakeskin gourami, B70/piece) is perfectly executed, the gaeng kua s a p p a ro t g o o n g ( re d c u r r y w i t h pineapple and shrimp, B160) bursts with a wonderful smoky aroma that’s enhanced by the sweet and tangy pineapple. The kai palo (braised egg in brown soup, B60), made from the owner’s grandma’s recipe, also shines thanks to the firm duck egg permeated with flavor—the result of extensive hours of simmering. Then the yum mankaew (jicama salad, B160), a rare f i n d w h i c h co n s i st s of s h re d d e d chicken, tiny pork cubes, chopped shrimp, jicama (Mexican potato), cucumber and crispy shallots. Every bite is crisp, complex and refreshing.

While there’s a small rooftop dining area offering modest neighborhood views, you don’t come here for the s e t t i n g . Ya n g G a o G o r n s e r v e s traditional dishes done right and priced very reasonably.

exclusively by the glass (from B290 for an excellent Margarita). It all sounds tres chic except you’re still in an open-space mallrestaurant, overlooking some rather dark buildings and backlots, subject to the occasional playground screams of kids OD’ing on ice cream and rubbing knees with tourists in shorts. Not that fancy after all. We do approve of Urban Cantina’s new, more sophisticated dishes nonetheless.

The Peruvian-Japanese ceviche Nikkei’s yellow fin tuna cured in a wasabi-soy leche de tigre and topped with salmon roe (B340) stands out for its fresh produce and clever balance of bright flavors. The grilled steak salad (B250) is another zingy treat, a winning combination of beef, fresh salsa and queso blanco (white cheese) dressing.

Of course, you could still order that one taco (B145), a 10” steak quesadilla (B390), chilequeso (grilled green guacamole, B180, now also available with mango, B220 or pineapple, B195), or the Chile Fries (Mexican chili and garlic fries with chipotle aoili dip, B155). They’re all bursting with flavor. We just don’t really see the point of having them here. Maybe it’s just that we’ve never experienced a braised beef tongue taco (B165) craving mid-Dior shopping spree. For those of you caught in such a conundrum, you can finally tuck into house-made Longanisa pork sausage (B420) while sipping a delicious, grownup cocktail without ever leaving the safety of your favorite mall.

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 BK Magazine Friday, October 9, 2015

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10/5/15 7:14 PM

now SAT East Meets West The biggest names in Bangkok indie-pop play songs by the biggest names in international indie-pop for Indieinspiration at Rattanaphram House (On Nut Soi 17) on Oct 10. Gym and Swim, Jelly Rocket (see On The Spot, page 25), Wave And So, Fwends, Phum Viphurit and The Whitest Crow, Masterbass—they’re all there, dishing out a playlist of hits by Arctic Monkeys, Coldplay, Disclosure, Gorillaz, Kodaline, The Kooks and Two Door Cinema Club. B300. Tickets are available at www.indieinspiration.com

THU Sweet Dreams Top Changtrakul makes dark, pop-art sculptures that frankly make us feel a little creepy. But that shouldn’t stop you going to see his latest work, Dreaming Out Loud, at WTF Bar and Gallery (Sukhumvit Soi 51, BTS Thong Lor) when it opens this Oct 15. It’s split into three installations that each represent different dreams. If past openings are anything to go by, there’ll probably be some free plonk, too.

FRI Short Stuff Returning for its 13th year, Shnit Film Festival screens 200 short films from across the world and gives out US$100,000 to the best ones.

This year, Thailand’s represented by eight shorts including Napat Tangsanga’s Gen A, Aroonakorn Pick’s We Used To Love Each Other and Nitaz Sinwattanakul’s Deleted, which Lido Multiplex (Rama 1 Rd. BTS Siam) is screening simultaneously with the rest of the world on Oct 9-10.

SAT Far Out So Far Sounds holds intimate gigs featuring indie artists you should know in 182 cities around the world. And Bangkok’s one of them. On Oct 10, starting 6pm, they’ll be holding a gathering of asyet-unnamed Thai artists in an as-yet-unnamed venue. Clearly we don’t know much right now, so check sofarsounds. com/cities/Bangkok for updated info and to register. Oh, and it’s free.

DJS

Tungvaag

Till Von Sein

24

TILL VON SEIN & MARCO LENZI

REVOLUTION

TUNGEVAAG & RABAAN LIVE

German house DJ Till von Sein teams up with the globe-trotting Italian DJ and producer Marco Lenzi. Free entry before 10pm. Oct 10, 7pm. Live RCA Bangkok, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 086-860-0808. B350.

Tribal drums, fire shows, tattoo artists and a big lineup of DJs including Unda, Ikono, Joyyly, Sagar Choksi and Skinny Mark. There will be four sections: the Pit (future house, progressive and big room), Fire Garden (rock, tech house and techno), Panic Room (hip-hop, trap and twerk) and Beyond Space (visual effects, games). Dress code is "Beyond Tribes." Free entrance before 10pm. Tickets are on sale now at ticketmelon.com/event/revolution. Oct 16, 7pm. Live RCA Bangkok, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 086-8600808. B200-350.

Epic Entertainment presents Scandinavian EDM duo Tungevaag & Rabaan, who are finally making their debut in Thailand. They are also scheduled to perform at the Warp Music Festival in Pattaya on Oct 24. Tickets at the door. Oct 22, 9pm. Levels, 6/F, Aloft Hotel, 35 Sukhumvit Soi 11, 082-308-3246.

B350 (one free drink). BTS Nana.

PINEAPPLES JUNGLE

A jungle party filled with trippy house music and psychedelic light installations. Music from DJ Sun & Bedcheck and DJ David Chong. Free entry before 9pm. Oct 10, 9pm.

Whiteline, Silom Soi 8, 087-0611117. B250 (one free drink). BTS Sala Daeng.

KONTRABAND FT. MC DAN STEZO

Kontraband returns for its monthly party filled with dub techno, bass, footwork and drum 'n' bass, joined by special guest MC Dan Stezo, a prolific drum 'n' bass artist who has worked with Dutch producer

Lenzman on popular tracks such as "Move & Focus" and "The Soul Tape." Oct 24, 9pm. Dark Bar, 2/F, Ekamai Mall, Ekkamai Soi 10, 02381-9896. B200 (one free Absolut shot).

JMJ SON OF RUN DMC FEATURING IYAZ LIVE IN BANGKOK

The son of Run DMC's pioneering DJ, Jam Master Jay, headlines a night of hip-hop and reggae with Caribbean Singer Iyaz. Tickets available at bit.ly/1IZ2bKc. Nov 4, 8pm. Live RCA Bangkok, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 086-860-0808. B900.

BK Magazine Friday, October 9, 2015

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10/5/15 7:19 PM

GIGS

KK Box Music Playtime

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

A live music performance showcasing Thai indie musicians in association with Signwave group. The lineup includes Lokee Redlight, Local Machine, No Diction, Every Body Hz, W Map and DJ Telepulp Jib Pechnarai. Tickets at the door. Oct 9, 8pm. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833. B100. BTS Surasak.

THE NEXT BIG THING: KKBOX MUSIC PLAYTIME

KKBOX Music Play Time hosts its second music event with live performances from Tabasco, Twopee Southside with Pok A.K.A. Mindset, DCNXTR and The Ginkz, plus food trucks Deli-Q, Angel Wings and Hot Wheels Pizza, and a workshop discussing "How to create the next big thing" by various entertainment professionals. Oct 10, 4pm. Rockademy, A-Square (next to Flow House, opposite K-Village), Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02-2613833. Free.

Small Like Room Spirit Party

TIGER BEER PRESENTS SMALL LIKE ROOM SPIRIT PARTY

The party of the year for the pop music label, featuring performances by Polycat, Slur and Somkiat plus DJ sets till late at Live House Studio. Tickets available at fb.com/smallroommusic. Oct 29, 7pm.

JJ Green, 110/46 Lad Phrao Soi 18, 086331-5657-8. B499. BTS Mo Chit.

16 YEARS PANDA RECORDS

One of the biggest indie record labels presents its annual concert, in celebration of its 16th anniversary, featuring Monomania, Stylish Nonsense, Hariguem Zaboy, Chladni Chandi, Abstraction XL and Freetype Writer at the historic cinema. 400 tickets available at on. fb.me/1FfoZY4. Thonburi Rama Cinema, Charan Saritwong Rd. Oct 31, 4pm. B600.

ON THE SPOT Pun, vocalist of Jelly Rocket My favorite bar for live music in Bangkok right now is… live music isn’t really my thing. Ironic, right? But if it’s the best place to dance to hip-hop music then it has got to be Dirty Bar at Demo, Thonglor.

My favorite music festival is… 808 Festival because I love EDM. My favorite Bangkok band/artist is… Lomosonic. They just have so much energy on stage.

Bringing you the hottest lifestyle news, latest openings and the most exciting events in Bangkok.

When at a music gig, I drink… actually, I often lose control of my voice to the point that it starts cracking uncontrollably whenever I drink. I did drink a couple of beers before our first ever performance at Cosmic Cafe because I was hella nervous, though.

Download the free BK Now app

I love the Bangkok indie music scene because… we’re just so diverse and all of us strive to be something different.

I hate the Bangkok indie music scene because… it still remains a really small community. Sometimes you run into the same bands over and over, it can feel like deja vu.

http://bk.asia-city.com/bkapp • Hundreds of listings, daily updates • Restaurants, bars and other openings • Save events to your calendar

The thing that bugs me most being on stage is… when people are super drunk and start yelling and trying to interrupt the performance.

My best concert experience in Bangkok was… do live DJ performances by Steve Aoki and Nicky Romero count?

My worst concert experience in Bangkok was… when I had to down three shots of tequila and three glasses of Long Island to enjoy myself. I won’t name the night.

If you don’t make mistakes, you’ll never learn, right?

The dream-pop girls of Jelly Rocket will be performing this Oct 10 at IndieInpsiration, playing songs inspired by massive international indie bands like Arctic Monkeys, Coldplay, Disclosure and Kodaline, as well as their original songs. Tickets are B300, available now at www.indieinspiration.com.

Baan Rattanaphram, 43 On Nut Soi 17. BTS On Nut

BK Weekend Our weekly e-newsletter with top stories and happenings around town

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BK Magazine Friday, October 9, 2015 25 10/5/2558 BE 4:54 PM

10/5/15 7:20 PM

now CONCERTS

CLASSICAL THE PRAGUE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

The Czech orchestra performs alongside Vadim Repin, one of the most-renowned violinists in the world, in a two-part program that features compositions by Bellini, Bruch and Dvorak. Oct 14, 7:30pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456. B1,000-3,500 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

Z-MYX Live

DAVID RUSSELL LIVE IN BANGKOK

David Russell Concert Pleng Prapas

90S Concert First Album

ALL ABOUT THAT BRASS 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 and Be Crescendo. 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.

RETURN TO GRACE: ELVIS PRESLEY

Steve Michaels performs as the legendary Elvis Presley in this recreation of one of the most pivotal points in the history of music. The concert includes performances of Elvis's top hits, ranging from "Heartbreak Hotel" to "Love Me Tender." Through Oct 9, 7:30pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456.

B800-3,000 from Thaiticketmajor.

MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

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 and Tea for Three. Oct 10, 6pm. Thunder Dome, 99 Popular Rd., 02-504-5050. B1,300-1,600 from Thaiticketmajor.

MUSICALS ROCK

Conductor and music director Michael England returns for the third consecutive year to work with Bangkok Symphony Orchestra, performing hits from popular musicals such as Mama Mia, Grease and We Will Rock You with West End London vocalists Jenna Lee-James, Rachel Wooding and Oliver Tompsett. Oct 21, 8pm.

Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456. B500-2,500 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

BrassArts Bangkok, in residence at the College of Music at Mahidol University, perform a program of brass-quintet music from across four centuries, from music of the Elizabethan Court to Broadway classics like West Side Story. Tickets available in front of the auditorium. Oct 14, 7pm. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-6630-8. B200. BTS National Stadium.

26TH TOYOTA CLASSICS CHARITY CONCERT

The annual charity concert by Toyota Motors Thailand in celebration of HRH Maha Chakri's 60th birthday, featuring the Budapest Operetta and Musical Theatre from Hungary. Expect hits from West Side Story, Phantom of the Opera, classical pieces composed by Strauss, as well as Thai classics by special guest Radklao Amaradit. Oct 25, 7pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456. B300-2,500 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

STAGE PERFORMANCES

Z-MYX LIVE VOL. 1 WITH TRIUMPHS KINGDOM AND YOKEE PLAYBOY

One of Thailand's dance-music pioneers returns to the stage in his first live performance in 10 years, along with supporting acts Triumphs Kingdom and Yokee Playboy. Oct 30, 7pm. Moonstar Studio, 701 Lad Phrao Soi 80, 02-539-3881. Tickets available from Thaiticketmajor.

BE GOOD Rotary Club of Bangkok South

Manoland

dance MANOLAND

A dance theater production by Teerawat Mulvilai that explores what the world would be like if imagination took precedence over knowledge. Tickets available at bit.ly/1NGlbQE. Oct 16-26, 8pm. Pridi Banomyong Institute, B-Floor Room, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thong Lor), 02-3813860-1, 08-6787-7155. B450-600. BTS Thong Lo. CINDERELLA

The famed Malandain Ballet Biarritz from France performs this ballet classic with score by Prokofiev, choreographed by Thierry Malandain, named Best Choreographer at the Taglioni European Ballet Awards 2014 in Berlin. Oct 13, 7:30pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456. B800-3,000 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

ALICE BY GAUTHIER DANCE

This Oct 30, 6am-2pm, the sidewalks on both sides of Silom Road will be laid with red cloth tape for the 17th annual Coins on Silom fundraising event organized by the Rotary Club of Bangkok South (RCBS). Rotarians and volunteers will be accepting donations along the road and offering donors stickers to place on the red tape to symbolize their contribution. All proceeds will go to the Rotary Club’s various charity projects, ranging from providing clean drinking water to Thailand’s rural schools, offering vocational training for the deaf and setting up computers for low-income communities. Sponsorship packages are also available.

Visit fb.com/rotarybangkoksouth for more information.

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Grammy Award-winning classical guitarist David Russell performs tracks from his 16 studio albums. Oct 22, 8pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456. B1,500-3,000 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

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The Gauthier Dance team perform an interpretation of Lewis Caroll's Alice in Wonderland as part of Bangkok's 17th International Festival of Dance and Music. Oct 16, 7:30pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456. B800-3,000 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

musicals & theater ENG-CHANG THE MUSICAL: THE EXTRAORDINARY LIVES OF THE LEGENDARY CONJOINED TWINS WHO CHANGED THEIR OWN DESTINIES

The story of the struggles and love lives of the famed Siamese twins, who exceeded all expectations and led successful lives beyond the confines of Siam. Directed by Bhanbhassa Dhubthien and starring pop singers Parn Thanaporn, Tachaya Prathumwan from The Voice Thailand, Ah-Eye from The Voice Kids and members of pop-opera band Fivera. Free Salaya Link shuttle bus from Bangwa station for all performances. Oct 16-18, 24-25, 1pm; Oct 16-17, 23, 24, 7pm. Prince Mahidol Hall, Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd. B500-3,000 from Thaiticketmajor.

Eng-Chang

THE LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

An adaptation of Roger Corman and Charles B. Griffith's famous 1960s horror-musical about the life of a man-eating plant in a flower shop. For tickets call 095-924-4555, or visit on.fb.me/1Op8Gux for more information. Oct 15-Nov 2, 8pm. Thong Lor Art Space, 58/14-15 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). B350-550.

FLY WITH ME, FREE BREAKFAST (QUEER EDITION)

Director Damkerng Thitapiyasak returns with a queer edition of his successful play from last year, Fly With Me, Free Breakfast, a slapstick comedy inspired by the French farce Boeing-Boeing. The performance tells the story of Bodin, a young bachelor dating three stewards from three different airlines, and his attempts to maintain each relationship. English subtitles provided.

Tickets available at 095-924-4555 or on fb.me/1jpksIB Through Nov 3, 7:30pm. Thong Lor Art Space, 58/1415 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). B590.

THE LISBON TRAVIATA

Originally produced by The Manhattan Theater Club in New York City, the drama-comedy play centers around two homosexual male friends, one of whom is about to lose his male lover to a younger man. Starring Bangkok's fabulous drag queen entertainer Pangina Heals and Bangkok Community Theatre's Steven Fry. Shows run on Thu, Sat-Sun. No shows on Halloween weekend.

Tickets available at bit.ly/1LglP7r. Through Nov 15, 7pm. Culture Collective Studio, 3/F, Chatrium Residence Riverside Bangkok, 26/276 Charoen Krung Soi 70, 099-447-4670. B800.

THE TRUE HISTORY OF THE TRAGIC LIFE AND TRIUMPHANT DEATH OF JULIA PASTRANA, THE UGLIEST WOMAN IN THE WORLD

As part of the Bangkok Theater Festival, this performance tells the true life story of Julia Pastrana, a Mexican woman who was born with hypertrichosis, leading her to attract the attention of some of the most influential people at that time such as Charles Darwin.

Tickets available at peelthelimelight.com. Nov 13-22.

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

BTS Phrom Phong.

BK Magazine Friday, October 9, 2015

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10/5/15 7:20 PM

now ART Opening Exhibitions

ART HIGHLIGHT

Spirit of Sanamluang

Soy Sauce Factory currently hosts an exhibition by award-winning Thai photographer Cherdwood Sakolaya, which captures the raw beauty of the historic grounds in the heart of Bangkok's Old Town over the past two decades.

DEVATA BY SOTHEA THANG

Sothea Thang follows up her sculptural series Manu, which focused on human development, with more sculptures made from hemp, iron and steel, this time centered on divine spirits.

Dates: Oct 15-Nov 8.

Alliance Francaise de Bangkok, 179 Wittayu Rd., 02-670-4200.

DON'T FALL IN LOVE WITH ME: SOLO EXHIBITION BY KOWIT WATTANARACH

Kowit Wattanarach's latest artworks explore the contrast between love and infatuation in a series of portraits.

Dates: Oct 15-Nov 29.

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

DREAMING OUT LOUD

FACES/NOW

Top Changtrakul experiments with concepts inspired by vivid nocturnal dreams that he has generated and captured in bizarre ways over the past year. The exhibition comprises three installations to represent three different dreams.

Dates: Oct 15-Nov 7.

Sati Foundation and Two Magazine collaborate on a photo exhibition featuring the portrait work of 10 local fashion photographers.

Dates: Oct 10-Nov 9.

1/F Mahanakhon Cube, 02-001-0698. BTS Chong Nonsi.

WTF Gallery & Cafe, 7 Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02662-6246. BTS Thong Lo.

DESIGN HIGHLIGHT

Bangkok International Typographic Symposium

Cherdwood's exhibition Spirit of Sanamluang will be available for viewing from now through Nov 15.

Soy Sauce Factory, Charoenkrung Soi 24, 061-835-6842. Open Tue-Sat 11am-6pm.

POP-UP MARKETS ZAAP ON SALE #5 “SPACE OF YOUR DESIGN”

Bangkok International Typographic Symposium returns this year from Oct 30-Nov 1 to celebrate the importance of typography and communication design. The first day at TCDC consists of workshops running from 10am-5:30pm by typography experts from around the world such as Seok Geumho (Korea), Marke De Winne (Singapore) and Verena Gerlach (Germany). Following that is the two-day conference at BACC which will consist of talks on the application of modern typography, commercial uses, noteworthy experimental designs and the future of typography from guest speakers such as Dave Crossland (Google Fonts Project), David Jonathan Ross (Font Bureau) and Panuwat Usakulwattana (Typographic Association Bangkok). Tickets are available now for B1,500-B2,500. Visit bitsmm.org for reservations and the full event schedule.

What: The mega indoor fashion market makes a return to Royal Paragon Hall with over 400 stalls from online brands and boutique stores. You’ll definitely want to wear comfy shoes because there won’t be that much seating. Don’t expect a cheap stroll, either.

When: Oct 24-25 ZAAP on sale

5/F, Royal Paragon Hall, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd. BTS Siam

PLAY IT ART

Never miss an issue of Free e-Book download from issuu.com/bkmagazine Play it Art

What: Here’s one for the art lovers. The weekend sees this new pop-up market take over the grounds of Hua Lamphong Station (think Made By Legacy last year).

Expect lots of vintage items, handmade crafts, a small art exhibition as well as art workshops. There’s already a pretty huge food lineup too, plus some live indie music

across the two days by singers from The Voice Thailand, Folkwhite, Fwends, Youth Brush and Pijika.

When: Oct 31-Nov 1 Hua Lamphong Station, Rama 4 Rd. MRT Hua Lamphong

YOUTH CULTURE EXHIBITION MARKET

What: The bare industrial space on the sixth floor of Central Embassy turns into a creative market featuring appearances by fashion stores by art and design students, a mixed-media art installation by 56th Studio, a music zone, and a food and drink zone. Live DJs and bands like DCNXTR, Fwends and Yellow Fang.

When: Oct 31-Nov 1 6/F, Central Embassy, Ploen Chit Rd. BTS Phloen Chit

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now FREEWILL ASTROLOGY by Rob Brezsny

FILM Opening

LIBRA (Sep 23-Oct 22): If I could give you a birthday present, it would be a map to your future treasure. Do you know what I’m referring to? I’m sorry I can’t provide you with the instructions you’d need to locate it. The cosmic powers tell me you have not yet earned that right. The second-best gift I can offer, then, will be clues about how to earn it. Clue #1. Meditate on the differences between what your ego wants and what your soul needs. #2. Ask yourself, “What is the most unripe part of me?”, and then devise a plan to ripen it. #3. Invite your deep mind to give you insights you haven’t been brave enough to work with until now. $4. Take one medium-sized bold action every day.

PAN (USA)

WE ARE YOUR FRIENDS (USA)

Adventure/Fantasy. In this Peter Pan origin story, an orphaned boy (Levi Miller) travels to the magical Neverland, where his adventures with Hook, Mermaid, Tiger Lily and Blackbeard begin. Oct 8

Drama/Romance. Cole Carter (Zac Efron) is an aspiring Hollywood DJ whose path to fame and success is complicated when he starts falling in love with his mentor’s girlfriend. Oct 8

SICARIO (USA)

MASTERMINDS (USA)

Crime. FBI Agent Kate Macer (Emily Blunt) is assigned to the war against drugs taskforce on the USA/Mexico border, where she must search for a big cartel boss (Julio Cesar Cedillo). Oct 8.

Action/Comedy. Based on a true story.

Bored with his life as a nighttime security guard, David (Zach Galifianakis) decides to plot one of the biggest bank robberies in US history. Oct 8.

Upcoming THE INTERN (USA)

CRIMSON PEAK (USA)

Comedy. Ben Whittaker (Robert De Niro) is a 70-year-old retired widower who returns to work as a senior intern at an online fashion company. His boss (Anne Hathaway) must figure out how to handle the experienced old-timer. Oct 15

Horror. After marrying Sir Thomas Sharpe (Tom Hiddleston), aspiring author Edith Cushing (Mia Wasikowska) moves in to his family mansion only to find that the gothic home is haunted by ghosts related to her new husband’s secret past. Oct 15

THE WALK (USA)

THE DOWN (THAI)

Biography/Drama. Based on the true story of French high-wire artist Phillipe Petit (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) whose dream is to walk on a tightrope between the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center. Oct 15

Documentary. A funny, moving and inspiring look into the life of five Thai teenagers living with Down’s Syndrome over the period of one year. Oct 15

Free Screening JAM

THE FRIESE-GREENE CLUB

Every Wednesday night is Cult Movie Night. Screenings start from 8pm. Visit fb.com/JAMCAFEBKK for weekly schedule.

41 Chareon Rat Soi 1, 089-889-8059. Open Tue-Sun 6pm-midnight. BTS Surasak.

The schedule follows a daily theme with a request night on Tuesdays. Movies are screened from 8pm, visit fgc.in.th for the full lineup and to reserve your seat. 259/6 Sukhumvit Soi 22, 086-000-0795. Open Wed-Sun 6pm-late.

ALLIANCE FRANCAISE

Movies are in French with English subtitles. Movies are screened at 7pm at Alliance Francaise 179 Witthayu Rd., 02-6704200. 14 Oct. 3 Hearts (2014): Strangers Marc and Sylvie meet one night in Paris and end up wandering through the streets until morning, immediately forming a connection. Agreeing to meet again a few days later, Marc encounters Sylvie’s sister instead.

FOREIGN CORRESPONDENTS CLUB OF THAILAND

Screened at 7:30pm at FCCT, Penthouse, Maneeya Center Building, Ploen Chit Rd., 02-652-0580-1. BTS Chitlom. Oct 12.

Foster Child (2007): Thelma, a foster mother in Manila, raises John as if he was her own son despite the knowledge that one day he will have to be handed over to a new family. Directed by Brilliante Mendoza.

SPECIAL SCREENING

Bangkok Filmmakers Short Horror Film Festival The Bangkok Filmmakers Group is currently accepting submissions from wannabe horror directors for this public screening on Oct 30, 9pm, at Whiteline Bar and Gallery. Films will be judged under several categories, with winning entries to be featured on Coconuts TV. Send your submissions (max length 10 minutes) to bangkokfilmmakers@ gmail.com by Oct 25. Entrance is free.

Silom Soi 8. BTS Sala Daeng

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SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Galway Kinnell’s poem “Middle of the Way” is about his solo trek through the snow on Oregon’s Mount Gauldy. As he wanders in the wilderness, he remembers an important truth about himself: “I love the day, the sun . . . But I know [that] half my life belongs to the wild darkness.” According to my reading of the astrological omens, Scorpio, now is a good time for you, too, to refresh your awe and reverence for the wild darkness—and to recall that half your life belongs to it. Doing so will bring you another experience Kinnell describes: “an inexplicable sense of joy, as if some happy news had been transmitted to me directly, by-passing the brain.”

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): The last time I walked into a McDonald’s and ordered a meal was 1984. Nothing that the restaurant chain serves up is appealing to my taste or morality. I do admire its adaptability, however. In cow-loving India, McDonald’s only serves vegetarian fare that includes deep-fried cheese and potato patties. In Israel, kosher McFalafels are available. At a McDonald’s in Singapore, you can order McRice burgers. This is the type of approach I advise for you right now, Sagittarius. Adjust your offerings for your audience.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 19): You have been flirting with your “alone at the top” reveries. I won’t be surprised if one night you have a dream of riding on a Ferris wheel that malfunctions, leaving you stranded at the highest point. In one sense you are zesty and farseeing. Your competence is waxing. At the same time, you may be out of touch with what’s going on at ground level. Your connection to the depths is not as intimate as your relationship with the heights. The moral of the story might be to get in closer contact with your roots. Or be more attentive to your support system.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20-Feb 18): I haven’t planted a garden for years. My workload is too intense to devote enough time to that pleasure. So eight weeks ago I was surprised when a renegade sunflower began blooming in the dirt next to my porch. How did the seed get there? The gorgeous interloper eventually grew to a height of four feet and produced a boisterous yellow flower head. Every day I muttered a prayer of thanks for its guerrilla blessing. I predict a comparable phenomenon for you in the coming days, Aquarius.

PISCES (Feb 19-Mar 20): The coming days will be a favorable time to dig up what has been buried. You can discover hidden agendas, expose deceptions, see beneath the masks, and dissolve delusions. But it’s my duty to ask you this: Is that really something you want to do? It would be fun to liberate so much trapped emotion, but it could also stir up a mind-bending ruckus that propels you on a healing quest. I hope you decide to go for the gusto, but I’ll understand if you prefer to play it safe.

ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 19): If I warned you not to trust anyone, I hope you would reject my simplistic fear-mongering. If I suggested that you trust everyone unconditionally, I hope you would dismiss my delusional naivete. But it’s important to acknowledge that the smart approach is far more difficult than those two extremes. You’ve got to evaluate each person

and even each situation on a case-by-case basis. Can you be both affably open-hearted and slyly discerning? It’s especially important that you do so in the next 16 days.

TAURUS (Apr 20-May 20): As I meditated on your astrological aspects, I had an intuition that I should go to a gem fair I’d heard about. When I arrived, I was dazzled to find a vast spread of minerals, fossils, and gemstones. Two stones quickly commanded my attention: chrysoprase, a green gemstone, and petrified wood, a mineralized fossil streaked with earth tones. The explanatory note next to the chrysoprase said that if you keep this gem close to you, it “helps make conscious what has been unconscious.” Ownership of the petrified wood was described as conferring “the power to remove obstacles.” I knew these were the exact oracles you needed. I bought both stones, took them home, and put them on an altar dedicated to your success in the coming weeks.

GEMINI (May 21-Jun 20): George R. R. Martin has written a series of fantasy novels collectively called A Song of Ice and Fire. They have sold 60 million copies and been adapted for the TV series Game of Thrones.

Martin says the inspiration for his master work originated with the pet turtles he owned as a kid. The creatures lived in a toy castle in his bedroom, and he pretended they were knights and kings. “I made up stories about how they killed each other and betrayed each other and fought for the kingdom,” he has testified. I think the next seven months will be a perfect time for you to make a comparable leap, Gemini.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): The editors of Urban Dictionary provide a unique definition of the word “outside.” They say it’s a vast, uncomfortable place that surrounds your home. It has no ceiling or walls or carpets, and contains annoying insects and random loud noises. There’s a big yellow ball in the sky that’s always moving around and changing the temperature in inconvenient ways. Even worse, the “outside” is filled with strange people that are constantly doing deranged and confusing things. Does this description match your current sense of what “outside” means, Cancerian? If so, that’s OK. For now, enjoy the hell out of being inside.

LEO (Jul 23-Aug 22): We all go through phases when we are tempted to believe in the factuality of every hostile, judgmental, and random thought that our monkey mind generates. I am not predicting that this is such a time for you. But I do want to ask you to be extra skeptical toward your monkey mind’s fabrications. Right now it’s especially important that you think as coolly and objectively as possible. You can’t afford to be duped by anyone’s crazy talk, including your own.

VIRGO (Aug 23-Sep 22): Do you know about the ancient Greek general Pyrrhus? At the Battle of Asculum in 279 BCE, his army technically defeated Roman forces, but his casualties were so substantial that he ultimately lost the war. You must avoid a comparable scenario. Fighting for your cause is good only if it doesn’t wreak turmoil. If you want to avoid an outcome in which both sides lose, you’ve got to engineer a result in which both sides win.

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10/2/15 3:52 PM

marketplace PROPERTY For rent

SERVICE For Sale

Advertise here from only B5,000!

2 OFFICES for Rent – 18,000 THB – 100 m2 each in Soi 33 of Sukhumvit 107 (Bearing), 3 km from Bearing BTS station.

Unfurnished 18,000/month or furnished 21,000/month, ample parking, CCTV, aircon. Available immediately. Contact Paul on 081-633-8468 or Thapanee on 081-402-3918.

A-SPACE Condo. 2 km from BTS On-Nuch (Sukhumvit 77). 6 Floor, 35.5 SQM. 1 bed 1 living, wide balcony. Swimming pool view. Furnished facilities are pool, security card & guard, parking. 1.87 MB. or rent minimum 1 year contract. Contact: Duke 084-081-1178

Anghin Architecture. Bangkok-based designer, architect and interior architect with experience in residential and commercial projects, handling both design and project oversight. Contact us and see our work at www.anghin.com. info@anghin.com. 089-201-2692.

02-254-9327.

Contact 02-624-9696 sales@asia-city.co.th

Credit card/Debit card payment accepted

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