BK Magazine 611 October 16, 2015

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it's free!

Dryer, please

BK MAGAZINE NO. 611 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com

watch this space The new galleries shaking up Bangkok’s art scene.

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ADVERTORIAL

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That sinking feeling when the BTS queue extends beyond the block

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And being on the platform no longer feels safe

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When you finally get on the train everyone’s dripping wet and poking you with their umbrella

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And if you try the MRT, it’s also absolutely freezing in there

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feelings only people who've experienced Bangkok's rainy season will understand

This is not Krispy Kreme!

Suan Siam all over again.

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Or all of them being occupied, even if they have the vacant sign on

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That awkward silence you have to endure when standing next to perfect strangers waiting for the rain to ease

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That ominous feeling when you have to resort to your 7-Eleven flip-flops to save your Charles & Keith heels

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That feeling of dread when 10 taxi drivers in a row shut you down because you live “on the other side of the river”

You can run but you can’t hide.

It’s full of explosive puddles out there.

Thonburi is Bangkok too! Ugh.

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When you’d rather let your newlypimped supercar rest at home

Where it’s safe and dry.

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Which means going to Thonglor now feels like a chore

Oh please, plastic bags are so last season.

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And that moment you realize halfway down the soi that you’ve left your umbrella at home as the dark clouds close in

Uh-oh.

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page 3 06 cover story

Space Invaders

Buy Me

4 upfront

12 avenues

Down on the Upside

Fashion Statement

14 shopping

16 blends

Market Magic

Sing for Sutton 18 bites

26 BK Now

Chef’s Pick

Theater Fest

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 Phattrapon Pichitphan

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

Bangkok celebrities deny drinking cheap local beer out of choice A group of 24 Bangkok celebrities accused of drinking a lowpriced, locally brewed beer have come forward to defend themselves against the allegations, which they say result from a misunderstood social media campaign for which they were each paid handsomely.

“This is really embarrassing,” said Tipatra “Ya Ying Yaya” Krailassuwan. “Since I was a student I haven’t touched anything cheaper than Gold Label. Oh, and there was this point in, like, 2007 when I was all about the Grey Goose. But Thai beer?! No way.”

The images in question were posted to Instagram and showed each of the celebrities holding the beer to the camera, logo clearly visible, accompanied by captions like “let’s make a party together” and “buy me buy me.”

“I thought I’d made that pic so unsubtle that anyone would guess it was purely for cash,” said Tanakorn “DJ Boomie” Royboon, whose photograph of him downing the beer in a neon wifebeater and pair of aviator shades at nighttime went viral after it was posted last week.

So far, the beer company in question has yet to publicly exonerate the celebrities of drinking their product for anything other than money. However, the fact that seven of the accused celebrities have actually appeared in promotional campaigns on the brand’s website adds credibility to their version of events. “Really, I don’t even know why I need to defend myself. It’s so obvious I’m in their pocket,” said DJ Boomie.

A high-profile distributor of wildly expensive American craft beers has also come forward in the celebs’ defence, saying that public misunderstanding about the images could seriously damage his brand.

“If the public begins thinking it’s OK for even rich celebrities to go to a bar and pay B80 instead of B280 for a beer, then we’re screwed,” said Darron Bartle, co-founder of Chug Supply Co. Several of the celebrities risk losing long-term social media contracts with luxury brands if it’s revealed they did in fact drink cheap local beer and not get paid for it.

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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upfront HOT OR NOT

Hot: Galleries

Not: Gallery bars

We know. Pretending to look at art while drinking Beerlaos and hooking up with drunk designers can be a whole lot more fun than actually looking at art.

But hopefully Bangkok’s latest wave of art spaces—which place more emphasis on the exhibitions than they do on getting drunk—can make us think otherwise (see page 6). If not, then there’s still the relaunch of Soy Sauce Bar to try and get lucky (see page 19).

Hot: Apocalypse

Not: Graduation

Just when you thought things couldn’t get any worse than an endless Facebook stream of makeup-caked twenty-somethings frolicking before a camera in graduation gowns, they did. Now, Indonesia’s haze has arrived in Phuket via Singapore, while heavy downpours again threaten to put Bangkok under water (and put a serious dampener on our lunch hour in the process).

INTERVIEW As the founder of the original dek naew bible, A Day Magazine, Wongthanong Chainarongsingha, 47, is never short of new projects. This week sees the screening of A Day’s first movie, The Down (see Film, page 28), an inspiring look into the lives of five Thai teenagers living with Down’s Syndrome. Here, he discusses why everyone deserves a fair chance in life and the impending launch of A Day Books Foundation Bookshop.

Seeing just how well accepted people with Down’s Syndrome are in Italy inspired me to make The Down documentary. I saw people living regular fulfilling lives with great self-esteem and equal opportunity, without being labelled as handicapped or different.

Hot: Game

Not: Vegetables

OK, we give up. Jay Fest was great for a week, but now we want back our prison trays of barbecued ribs and bacon-topped wagyu burgers. Looks like this city’s fine-dining scene thinks the same. To coincide with Europe’s autumn, Savelberg, L’Appart (see page 20) and, Water Library have blessed us with menus focused on pheasant, grouse and other buckshot-peppered beasts to sink our teeth into.

Hot: French Chinese

Not: American Chinese

So Opposite’s American-Chinese experiment at Maggie Choo’s is gone and we’ve yet to make it out of bed in time for Little Beast’s dim-sum brunch. Too bad, because now Chef Man’s Man Wai Yin has decided what we should really be eating is French-style Chinese food: lots of set courses, minimal choice for the customer, and chocolate rather than mung bean for dessert (see page 18). We’re in.

Thai people judge those with Down’s Syndrome by their looks, not their abilities. Often we don’t even see them in public, because their parents feel embarrassed and hide them at home. I want to change this perception. I’m constantly amazed by their learning abilities, whether it’s engaging in full-time work or pursuing a master’s degrees.

Sometimes I feel envious of people with Down’s Syndrome because of their ability to live for the moment.

They never seem sad or worried. I would say it is God’s gift to be so cheerful.

The most unforgettable moment during filming was when we visited Piboon Prachasan School, a school for special kids, and Sommai, this

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teen I’d never met before, came up and hugged me. After seeing other cast members embrace me, he just walked over and asked me, “Can I hug you?” We hugged for about two minutes—one of the longest and purest hugs I’ve ever received.

Our education system breeds misunderstanding and disillusion. How come we’re so quick to praise fortune tellers rather than believing in ourselves?

Many of our young generation feel lost. I like to inspire people so I give lots of motivational speeches at schools. What worries me is so many kids don’t know what they want in life, let alone harbor big dreams.

I’m really excited about launching A Day Books Foundation Bookshop around Thailand. I was inspired by Oxfam’s second hand shops where they sell donated things in order to help others. I also hope this model will provide job opportunities for young students. I plan to open the first three shops at universities this year.

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Print media won’t disappear any time soon. Our relationship with paper is so firmly established. I still see people in developed cities reading books on the train. Of course, daily newspapers do face new competition due to social media and digital news organizations.

The best thing in life is freedom. I used to dream of working in hotels, so I did an internship at one. It was a nightmare. I asked myself, “Do I want to be cleaning chairs forever?” After that, I switched to studying humanities and social sciences, and became a writer.

Be proud of what you do. I had a friend who studied hospitality and was the doorman of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel at the same time I started A Day. I’m proud of both of us, as we both got to do what we love.

He even had a higher salary than me!

I love my life, every second of it.

I get to do what I love and believe in. I’m still bursting with energy and creativity, just like when I started out.

Interview by Monruedee Jansuttipan and Thaparit Lomsucka

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THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

by Kathy MacLeod kathymacleod.blogspot.com

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BK Magazine Friday, October 16, 2015

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CITYCITY GALLERY

cover story

The Big Picture Bangkok’s new wave of gallery owners explain why now is a really important time for the city’s art scene. By Lily Kittisrikangwan

Yenakart Villa

BANGKOK CITYCITY GALLERY The much-hyped white-cube art space that emerged in Sathorn Soi 1 back in early September had the young art crowd frothing with its debut exhibition by the famed cartoonist Wisut Ponnimit, titled Melo House. The multi-purpose, 200-square-meter main space is designed to facilitate all forms of contemporary art, while the smaller space next door is used for more relaxed events, and as a reading room and gift shop. 13/3 Sathorn Soi 1, 083-087-2725. Open Wed-Sun 2pm-8pm. www.bangkokcitycity.com

Op Sudasna and Supamas Phahulo, gallery owners How did the space come about?

Supamas: It’s a personal, self-funded project that we built from scratch. We wanted to create a space that works for the specific types of exhibitions we want to see ourselves.

What’s so unique about your space?

Op: We have all sorts of visitors, from artists and architects, to people that have probably never been to an art space before. We’ve been able to reach out to a really big crowd, and we want to continue to do that. In fact, the name comes from rap songs about representing a ‘hood, a city where you come from. In a way, we’re trying to represent Bangkok city.

It's the content that matters to us; everything else is just a by-product

Op: The presentation of the work is paramount. We take great care making sure that the art is always the first priority. For instance, the main exhibition room can be adapted for different purposes—big sculptures, fashion shows, live experimental performances—you name it. The ceiling can be opened up to provide natural light from outside— that’ll be for our next show—and the walls can easily be broken down to make way for all sorts of other contemporary art.

Sure, it’s a commercial space and it’d be great to attract collectors for the sake of longevity, but it’s the content that matters to us; everything else is just a by-product.

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Who is your target audience?

Do you think there’s been a growth of interest in the local art scene?

Supamas: The main problem is probably communication and education.

A lot of people don’t even know that these art spaces exist. But we think younger people will want to visit us.

It’s a learning process just like anything else. If people of our generation—and the younger generation— realize that they don’t have to just hang out at the malls, then things will slowly move in the right direction.

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cover story SATHORN 11 ART SPACE Emerging in an unlikely residential alley of Sathorn Soi 11, the new gallery is a two-story space that provides an outlet for the work of aspiring local artists as well as a residency program. They’ve got four atelier studios above the gallery, which are lent to Thai artists selected from across the country. 404 Sathorn Soi 11, 02-0041199. Open Tue-Sun 11am-7.30pm. www.sathorn11.com

Marc Green, co-owner, and Mike” Boonmahanark, co-owner and curator How did the space come about?

Marc: This entire project was self-funded by me and Mike, who also finds artists and curates exhibitions here. It wasn’t easy, but the project was born from my belief that Thai artists should become more recognized, and this platform may perhaps even help them grow internationally.

How do you position yourself as a gallery?

What type of art is the gallery going to be focusing on?

Marc: So many art spaces here bring in international artists. We’ll only be focusing on Thai contemporary art of all mediums and styles. Absolutely everyone and anyone can apply for our residency, which would last 3-6 months, and to do a show here. Over the last six months, we’ve received so many applications from students in Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen and Bangkok, wishing to join our space. It’s really great.

There's clearly a disconnect between the Thai art community and the farang art community

Mike: We see ourselves as a social enterprise. The purpose of the gallery is to give Thai talents from across the country a platform to display their work, and also to support them through the supply of art equipment, a studio and lodgings. My initial inspiration was to make lives better for these amazing talents. So we’re looking to have one event a month, featuring rotating exhibitions by our resident artists.

What problems do you see in the local art scene?

Marc: There’s clearly a disconnect between the Thai art community and the farang art community—you can tell by just looking at art openings. We’re really hoping to slowly change that and be the bridge for the two communities. There is more interest in art now in Bangkok, but it’s not as widespread as it could be.

I’ve been here for over nine years and quite a lot has changed in terms of the contemporary art scene. In the last two years especially, if you just look around Yannawa, Charoenkrung and Chinatown, there’s a lot of new spaces that serve as a platform for all sorts of art.

YENAKART VILLA French nationals Frederic Meyer and Jeremy Opitresco (the two gentlemen behind Namsaah Bottling Trust) created one of the most striking galleries in town when they opened this huge white space in mid-2015. Nestled on Yen Akart Road in Sathorn, the multi-purpose, by-appointment-only gallery takes influence from the work of 1930s European architecture with its striking modernist building, soaring ceilings, expansive glass and crisp white facade, while out front there’s also a 600-square-meter sculpture garden. 69 Soi Prasat Suk, Yen Akart Rd., 02-235-9800. Open daily 11am–2.30pm, 6pm–10pm. www.yenakartvilla.com

Jeremy Opritesco, founding partner Do you notice a big difference between the art scene here and elsewhere you’ve visited?

Personally, I find that when an art scene is established, it’s a lot less interesting. There are no newcomers, no new artists and the energy is very different. It’s hard to come up with a new concept and new ideas. There’s a lot of interest in Asia now. There was hardly anything in China a few years back, and now it’s one of the biggest markets in the world.

With Bangkok you can really feel the boom arriving.

Do you see any problems that Bangkok’s art scene still needs to overcome?

Who is your audience?

There are a lot of international buyers, locals, expats and even tourists from around Southeast Asia. I wouldn’t say there’s a lack of interest, but perhaps the issue is that many are from the same crowd. We want to break into fashion and design to broaden our audience.

The main challenge is getting collectors and buyers to trust a gallery

The collectors are currently going to artists directly and artists have been sending their work to collectors for years now. The main challenge is getting collectors and buyers to trust a gallery and know that if they purchase through us, there’ll be more value in what they do over time. At the moment, no one’s taking care of the artists, to help them go out, go to art fairs and get

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exposure. Quite a lot of artists, once their art is sold to this niche group of Thai collectors, just stop working.

Galleries can really help the Bangkok art scene take off. I think this is the real motivation behind the space.

Future plans for the gallery?

We’re working on an artist’s loft in the back. I think it’s very important for the artist to stay here for a few months to get inspiration, to discuss the work. We’re going to have a new exhibition every six weeks, and we’ll try to integrate a food concept—we have a full professional kitchen at the back. I’ve been talking to artists and designers here, and they feel like there should be a lifestyle component to it; putting gastronomy and art together. We’re collaborating with hotels and luxury brands, too. That’s another indication that the art scene is evolving.

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cover story 56th STUDIO PRIVATE GALLERY This design studio dedicated to forward-thinking furniture and product design opened a small private upstairs gallery back in May. The 48-sq-meter space features work by local and international artists who are chosen to reflect the owners' belief that graphic prints, textiles and furniture deserve to be admired with the same reverence as fine art. 9-11 Green Connect, Sukhumvit Soi 31. Open Fri-Sun 12pm-midnight. www.fb.com/56thStudio

Saran Yen Panya, designer and gallery owner How have you seen Bangkok’s art scene change in the past few years?

There’s been quite a decline in huge trade shows and exhibitions, and more momentum towards small, selfrun art spaces. And I’d say, the more the better. Even the bars-slash-galleries—they’re great. Drinking and admiring art at the same time is a wonderful combination. That’s why I love spaces like Speedy Grandma—I feel welcome every time I head over there.

Who is the Bangkok audience?

What’s the defining character of the gallery?

Our gallery focuses on objects, furniture and design products, as well as contemporary art.

We’ve been holding one exhibition a month, from artists that have a massive fan-following to those who are so low-key they only have 200 Instagram followers. It’s a very casual space. Sure, it’s a private gallery but by having people call in for an appointment, it’s much easier to personalize each visit. It’s all about bringing over something unique, something that you won’t be able to find elsewhere. And it’s my home, so there’s a relaxed, cozy atmosphere.”

I want nothing more than to expand the audience base and promote everyday art for everyday aunties and salarymen

I want nothing more than to expand the audience base and promote everyday art for everyday aunties and salarymen in Bangkok. I don’t think art should be limited to just an exclusive crowd—some of the stuff we’ve brought over has sold to the regular joe, and that’s because it’s beautiful and affordable. Collecting art doesn’t have to be about high-end, massive art pieces. It doesn’t have to be too “arty” all the time.

What’s been the biggest challenge so far?

One of the difficulties of holding an exhibition is conveying a story to the audience. I like promoting underdog artists.

Many galleries pick mainstream, established artists for commercial purposes. That’s not our main aim. It’s also not very easy to bring in artists, whether well-established or not, because we’re still quite new. Of course, installing a completely new set of work takes a lot of time and effort, too.

SCHEMATA GALLERY This one-room art space takes over a spot in the quiet Liberty Plaza at the end of Thonglor. Although run

by Anon Pairot, one of Bangkok’s best known product designers, the gallery is by no means restricted to just design work. It opened strongly in July 2015 with an exhibition of formerly unseen sketches from landscape architect Pok Kobkongsanti (from Terrain + Open Space studio) and followed it up with a series of canvases created over 10 years by Chiang Mai artist Angkrit Ajchariyasophon.1/F, Liberty Plaza, Sukhumvit 55 (Thonglor), 088-088-8066. Open Mon-Fri 1pm-7pm. www.fb.com/Schematagallery What work are you interested in showing?

Anon Pairot, designer and gallery owner Why did you decide to open this space?

I would like it to be a space to ponder over contemporary issues and new ideas. Design is still largely driven by capitalism. The more you create the more you earn. The more you mass-produce the more you gain.

I could be investing in something else that generates more money faster than this, but this has a lot more value than commercial gains. I think the greatest contribution we can make as a gallery is to inspire and bring new perspectives to people.

Do you feel art appreciation is only for the elite here?

If something is created purely for commercial purposes, then that's just home decor

If you want to think purely in terms of economics, art probably only serves the rich. Would an auntie selling noodles on the street come to see or buy these things? There are probably other more pressing concerns in their lives. The differentiator is taste, education and perspective. One chooses to come to a gallery because they prioritize it over going to the movies or watching a lakorn. But I don’t think we should be trying to convince everyone to come to art galleries. When an audience decides to see a show, it’s content-specific, not gallery-specific; different sorts of artwork will attract different people.

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We care about the artists' thoughts and what they’re trying to criticize. The format can basically be anything. The only limitation is the size of our space, really. Great art is created when artists believe in what they’re working on. If something is created purely for commercial purposes, then that’s just home decor.

In the future, there’ll be designers, architects, performing artists so on and so forth, depending on their confidence with our space. The main emphasis is on Southeast Asian artists because the culture here is so diverse, not as homogenous as Europe. There’s something quite exotic about us as a region.

Would you say that Bangkok is currently experiencing a newfound interest in art?

I have no idea. I’m not doing this because it’s on the up right now. But the good thing about all this is that there’s more to be explored and enjoyed in Bangkok, especially for visitors. Not just, you know, the alleys of Nana and Phrom Phong. One of the ways to explore a country is through the arts. It would be boring if every gallerist thought the same way, wanted the same things and liked the same shows.

BK Magazine Friday, October 16, 2015

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escapes ESCAPE ROUTES

By Pinnyada Tanitnon

PHUKET

New Branch Banyan Tree’s new, younger, more affordable brand, Cassia (www.cassia.com), has just launched its first hotel in Thailand, tucked inside the beachside Laguna Phuket compound on Cherngtalay. Aiming somewhere between a hotel and serviced apartment, the resort’s 221 rooms are all equipped with a living room and kitchen, and come furnished in a vibrant, urban style (think egg-shaped sinks and hanging box lights). Options range from the 42-sq-meter one-bedroom unit to the 86-sq-meter two-bedroom loft with private mezzanine lounge. The communal amenities are pretty cool, too: two swimming pools, a day spa, a deli serving coffee, snacks and grab-and-go meals as well a bar complete with foosball. And did we mention that you’ll also get complimentary breakfast in bed every single morning? Standard rates start at only B3,750 per night.

Better yet, book by Nov 30 and you’ll get the introductory rates, which start at B1,700 per night for stays between Oct 21-Dec 19 and Jan 10-31, 2016.

HUA HIN

Skip the Crowds This winter, skip crowded and touristy Hua Hin for a quieter getaway just a little further south. Located 22km from the beach town, the luxurious Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas (www.sheratonhuahinpranburi.com) is home to 53 private-garden villas surrounded by giant lotus ponds and boasts impressive views of the Gulf of Thailand. Travel between Oct 1-30, Nov 1-30 and Dec 1-23 to take advantage of the resort’s winter promotion for Thai residents (expats, that includes you too), where a pool villa will set you back B7,900 per night (originally B11,000), a duplex villa B9,900 per night (originally B14,000) and a pool villa suite (with 24-hour butler service!) B12,900 per night (originally B19,000). These are pretty decent deals, given it’s high season.

KRABI

No More Lonely Nights Unless you’re looking for a makeshift bar pumping top-40 hits and serving dubious mixed drinks, Krabi Town can be a tough place for going out. Deep Cafe N’ Bar (Sribharami Soi 1, just off Hemthanon Rd., Paknaam, 075-811-397, www.fb.com/deepcafenbar) could well be the town’s first truly hip drinking establishment. Set in a renovated old shop-house, the venue carries the same sort of crumbling, artsy charm you might find in Charoenkrung, only with some colorful hippie murals and live bands performing standard lounge jazz and indie-folk to remind you that you’re still out of town. The kitchen serves Asian and Western fusion dishes prepared with Thai fruits, herbs and spices.

Try the braised pork belly with herbs and honey lemon sauce (B320), washed down with potent cocktails like the Mo-ra-kot (Sangsom, Midori, sweet basil, lemograss and lime, B160) or A-yo-tha-ya (Mekhong shaken with kaffir lime leaves, Indian red onion, white turmeric, lemongrass and lime, B160).

CHIANG MAI

Smell the Coffee The Chiang Mai coffee scene has welcomed a tiny Scandinavian-style newcomer. Tucked down a small alleyway not far from the city’s much-loved North Gate Jazz bar, One Day Drip (Sriphoom Soi 4, www.fb.com/onedaydripcoffee) is pretty easy to miss at first glance, resembling little more than a spruced-up street stall with one wooden table and a small bar. The owners are self-proclaimed coffee snobs and select their beans from dedicated coffee trips around Thailand and abroad. Right now, they’re focusing on single-origin drip coffee, but they also serve baguettes and pastries accompanied by their own jam, made from seasonal local fruits like pineapple and strawberry.

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

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avenue

FASHI0N

Make a Statement Thonglor’s newly-opened multi-label store Statement deals in both imported cult brands and local names previously only available online. The prices are pretty affordable, too, starting from B1,000.

Highlights for day-to-night wear include Pin & Tux, Ensemble and Anaman, while Coralist Swimwear, Little Scandi (Korea) and Kalis Activewear are top choices for the beach and gym. You can also expect mobile cases from Another Case, men’s accessories from Rams, leather bags from Chatt Material and aroma candles from Ma Chandlle. There’s also a health-focused cafe corner, serving tea from Peace Oriental Teahouse, a signature cold brew coffee infused with orange and vanilla blended by Brave Roasters, cold press juice from Make It Happen and light bites like the Super Bowl (mixed berries with frozen yogurt and Acai powder topped with granola, blackberries, strawberries, bananas and pumpkin seed, B240). They serve cocktails on weekends, too. Thonglor Soi 11, 02-003-6973. Open Sun-Thu 11am-10pm; Fri-Sat 11am-midnight.

BEAUTY

NEW APP

SPORT

Bold Lips

Cab off the Rank

Jump for Joy

Multi-label women’s store The Wonder Room has branched out beyond apparel and jewelry to welcome new Thai cosmetics brand Estro to its shelves. Made locally from imported raw ingredients from Europe and America, the brand’s first product, Hyaluronic Lipstick, is available in two textures: semi matte for a non-gloss finish that’s not too difficult to apply, and silky cream for a shinier look. Both contain a lip primer base that’s supposed to help heal chapped lips. There are currently 15 shades available, ranging from the nude Beloved (#19), bright purple Puckish (#06) and bright red Fierce (#01) to the trending deep red Depressed (#12). From B490. The Wonder Room, 3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-0000.

BTS Siam. www.fb.com/estroexclusive

We’ve been seeing All Thai Taxi‘s American-looking yellow Toyota Priuses on Bangkok’s streets for the past few months now, but with only the option of booking by telephone, we haven’t felt like giving up our Ubers and GrabCars just yet. That could change now that it’s launched a phone app, offering a GPS-equipped driver (lady on request) at the touch of a button. Rates when booking through the app start at B55, on top of B5.5 for every kilometer of your journey plus B2 for every minute stuck in traffic. By our reckoning that makes it about on par with GrabCar’s economy service—though UberX still comes out cheapest during a 10km trip with 20 minutes in traffic. Contact 1624 or visit www.allthaitaxi. com for more information.

San Franciscan indoor trampoline park chain Rockin’ Jump has landed in Bangkok, offering an unconventional method for keeping active. Here, you’ll find giant trampoline beds interconnected to form bouncy floors and walls that are divided into four zones: the Rockin’ Arena (a freestyle jumping), Rockin’ Splash (jumping from a trampoline into a foam pit), Rockin’ Dodge (for games of trampoline dodgeball) and Rockin’ Dunk (for games of trampoline basketball, equipped with hoops at each end). Prices range from B400 for 30 minutes to B1,000 for two hours, while you can also purchase packages that span three (B1,500), five (B2,250) and 10 hours (B4,000) of jumping. 428 Ratchadapisek-Rama 3 Rd., 02-212-0222. www.bangkok-rockinjump.com

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avenue SHOPPING

Vintage Finds There’s a new Rodfai Market set to open on Kaset-Nawamin Road this month.

But in the meantime we return to the Srinakarin original to seek out some retro eye candy. By Lily Kittisrikangwan, photos by Karin Kunjara

Coffee grinder, B2,500

Vintage car collectible, B700

Vintage doll, B2,500

Wood-carved horse, B15,000

Film projector, B14,000

Old trolley, B12,000

Vintage sewing kit, B3,500

172 vintage postcards from England, B1,500

Vintage radio, B7,000

Turntable suitcase, B3,500

Marine binoculars, B2,500

Typewriter, B8,500

5 Tips to Ace your Rodfai Expedition 1. Choose your shopping zone wisely. The plaza zone by the parking lot sells new (vintage-style) items, from posters and bike accessories.

Move in further and you’ll find lots of cheap fashion items, accessories and electronic gadgets spread across the talad nad (flea market) zone.

2. The really cool stuff (see above) is right at the back of the market, where you’ll find Wild West-style warehouses selling genuine antiques, mainly furniture and home decor items.

3. The famous restaurants can attract some pretty long queues. The biggest hits are the massive bowls of noodles at Bamee Jom Pa Lung and rice congee at Joke Jom Pa Lung.

4. For drinks, there are rows of small bars right at the entrance of the market, with live music kicking off later in the night.

5. There’s no public transportation there! Grab a cab. Driving? Head over before 6pm to find a parking space (which fills up quite quickly).

You’ll also want to avoid the congestion as there is only one route in and out.

Rodfai Market Sri Nakarin, Sri Nakarin Soi 51, behind Paradise Park. Open Fri-Sun 6pm-midnight.

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bites & blends RESTAURANT

Chic Club Siam Square’s best brunch place has just branched out to Ekkamai. And this new spot is less hidden. WWA, a cafe-cum-fashion shop on the third floor of the now-defunct Swensens in Siam Square has partnered with select shop Chooseless (of the same crowd behind Cocue in Siam Square Soi 1) to open up its second cafe at Baan Ekkamai. At WWA x Chooseless, the whole menu from Siam Square is offered along with some Thai comfort dishes from Chooseless. Also expect a bigger space and more cakes. The best news is the new spot starts operating at 10:30am on weekends, while still opening at noon on Wed-Fri. Baan Ekkamai, Ekkamai Soi 21, 02-660-4349

RESTAURANT

Seeds of Change Fine-dining restaurant empire Water Library has attempted to go casual with its latest opening. Replacing the spot that used to be The Library, Seed transports the team from the now-defunct chef’s-table restaurant Water Library Thonglor, led by Singaporean chef Haikal Johari, to a more rustic, down-to-earth setting. This being Water Library, the French-inspired Western dishes aren’t all that casual and feature some Asia touches plus pretty beautiful presentation. Among the salads, soups, pastas, fish and meat dishes, you can expect items like foie gras terrine (B390) served with coconut, pineapple chutney and toasted sourdoug and duck confit (B590) served with carrot ginger puree, cabbage, caramelized ginger and orange jus. Sukhumvit Soi 39, 099-283-6363

CHEF VISIT

Return Flight As part of the Shangri-La group’s International Festival of Gastronomy, eight of its restaurants around the world will welcome a guest chef from a Michelin-starred restaurant on Oct 27-31.

Visiting Angelini in Bangkok will be Italian chef Enrico Bartolini, of the two-Michelin-starred Devero Restaurant in Cavenago di Brianza, Italy, who will cook up a five-course dinner (B3,500) for the first three nights, followed by a six-course wine dinner (B6,000) on Oct 31. Chef Bertolini earned his first Michelin star when he was just 29, and earned two more stars five year later.

He visited Bangkok earlier this year at Mandarin Oriental’s Ciao, whose head chef, Luca Cassini, has coincidentally just joined Angelini. 89 Soi Wat Suan Plu, Charoenkrung Rd., 02-236-7777

ON THE BAR Sing Sing The buzz: If Maggie Choo’s was a Victorian colonial club hiding in a Hong Kong basement, 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. In a move that harks back to the Silom club’s launch, Sutton is reunited with Sanya Souvanna Phouma, and musical director Kevin Lazykay, a mix that promises well-curated house DJs and dolled up women in qipao.

The decor: The petite dance floor acts as a hub for a network of mezzanines,

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sunken bars and Sutton’s trademark warren of secret passages leading to single-table balconies and speakeasy-style backrooms. The gaze is always drawn to the compact stage, and Sutton himself describes the club as a theater ensconced in split levels and alcoves meant to evoke a dense cityscape. There’s no faulting the wood and metalwork throughout, a debauchery of Chinese dragons, geometric motifs and coffer ceilings framing oil-paper umbrellas, birdcages and tufted leather.

The drinks: “There’s no menu yet,” we were told. We’re expecting good things, though. Sing Sing is operated by the partners from Quince (hence Sanya’s involve-

ment) 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.

The crowd: On opening night? A lot of white men who get their style cues from Apple keynote presentations (hope you like untucked dress shirts in dark colors), a few of their vastly better dressed Asian buddies and young ladies hired to strike hieratic poses in outrageous costumes.

Gregoire Glachant

Sukhumvit Soi 45 (next to Quince), 097285-6888. Open Tue-Sun 8pm-2am

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blends

Namsaah Bottling Trust

7th Street Bar & Bistro (Picture courtesy of Siam2Nite)

GO GIRLS Ladies, you don’t have to wait until the weekend to get the party started. Here are eight bars to kick back with your gang. Added bonus: buy-one-get-one free cosmopolitans— only you have to mix the second one yourself.

TUESDAY Roof 409 Bar & Bistro It’s only the start of the week but you and the girls still deserve a nice drink after a long working day. This bar combines fuss-free comfort dishes with a laid-back rooftop and high-flying drinks to match the fourth-floor views.

Why ladies love it: Chilled out and chat-friendly.

4/F, Mercury Ville, 504 Phloen Chit Rd., 081-995-6984. Open daily 11am-midnight. BTS Chit Lom. Facebook: Roof 409 Bar & Bistro

Salt Just because it looks quiet doesn’t mean Ari isn’t one of Bangkok’s most happening areas. A big part of that is down to this stylish neighborhood favorite which just turned five and continues to serve a winning combo of Japanese and Western flavors, plus classic cocktails with creative twists.

Why ladies love it: Preppy eye candy and super edgy decor.

111/2 Ari Soi 4, 02-619-6886. Open daily 5pm-midnight. BTS Ari. Facebook: Salt Aree

WEDNESDAY Le Café des Stagiaires If you’re looking for an easygoing spot that reminds you and the girls of trips to Europe, this colorful Sathorn hotspot is the place. Founded by five college friends in Shanghai back in 2011, the bar expanded to Bangkok just a few months ago. It packs a stunning

booze collection, giving you plenty of inspiration to mix your own drink.

Why ladies love it: Even if you’re not hitting on the French boys, you gotta love that continental cafe atmosphere.

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

Open Tue-Sun 11:am-2am. BTS Chong Nonsi. Facebook: Le Café des Stagiaires- Bangkok

Enchanted Bar Nestled on the rooftop of J-Avenue community mall, right in the center of Thonglor, this bar is a bit of a hidden gem.

Why ladies love it: Just the spot for you and the gang to take the edge off that mid-week stress.

4/F, J Avenue, Sukhumvit Soi 55, 095641-6626. Open daily 6pm-2am. Facebook: Enchanted Bar

7th Street Bar & Bistro If you and the gang are feeling particularly adventurous, try this brand new hangout right on the corner of Thonglor Soi 10. Order a light meal like the Salmon Saab, paired with a refreshing cocktail or two. This bar has another branch at Mega Bangna, too.

Why the ladies love it: “It’s brand new!

Let’s check it out.”

1/F, Ten Building, Thonglor Soi 10, 02714-8052. 1/F, Mega Bangna, 02-1051977. Facebook: 7th Street

THURSDAY Namsaah Bottling Trust After some sophistication and oldworld charm? Set in a 100-year-old

house painted bright pink, Namsaah just oozes nostalgia and charm, jazzed up by a playful pop edge in the decor’s kitschy palette. The menu here was created by one of Thailand’s most globally recognized chefs, Ian Kittichai, and adds twists to Asian comfort food.

Why the ladies love it: The roccocoo decor and signature Krungthep Cosmo made with Absolut mandarin.

401 Silom Soi 7, 02-636-6622. Open daily 5pm-2am. BTS Chong Nonsi.

Facebook: Namsaah Bottling Trust

Cloud 47

Cloud47 For a rooftop break far removed from the fast-paced business life of Silom-Sathorn, head up to the 47th floor of United Center Building. This spacious, all-white rooftop bar tops our list for breezy hangouts thanks to its distinctly Thai character.

Why ladies love it: Instagram-worthy rooftop views and easy-listening bands.

47/F, United Center, Silom Rd., 091889-9600. BTS Sala Daeng. Open Mon-Sat 5pm-midnight. BTS Sala Daeng. Facebook: Cloud 47

Le Cafe des Stagiaires

FRIDAY Badmotel Kick off early with tasty dishes, some pre-game cocktails and good grooves spun by local talented DJs at this stylishly designed Thonglor institution.

Why ladies love it: The little dancefloor means you can stay here all night long.

Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), between soi 15 and 17, 02-712-7288.

Open daily 5pm-2am. Facebook: Badmotel

Salt

FLASKA FANTASTIC These eight bars are all doing a buy-oneget-one-free deal on select nights. When ordering a Cosmopolitan you’ll get a free Absoluty Shore. The drinks come in “flaska” jars—a cute mason jar complete with an oversize straw and your name on it.

That’s only half the fun though. The bar-

Brought to you by Absolut

tender will make the first one, but you’ll have to make the second one by yourself under their careful guidance (excluding Namsaah Bottling Trust). What’s an Absoluty Shore? Fresh lime, lychee juice, sugar syrup and excellent vodka. We absolutely recommend Absolut.

Roof 409 Bar & Bistro

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bites

OPEN DOOR

M Krub Chef Man’s main man adds modern twists to Chinese cuisine.

The buzz: The latest opening at Mahanakhon Cube is no less glamorous than its predecessors. Here, chef Man Wai Yin, the mastermind behind one of Bangkok’s top Chinese kitchens, Chef Man, collaborates with well-traveled French chef Marc Razurel (who’s spent time at the two-Michelin-starred Carre des Feuillants in Paris) to serve up a modernized take on Chinese cuisine.

The decor: With a capacity of only 35-40 people, Chef Man this isn’t. Plush, modern Chinese decor heightens the sense of intimacy, with vibrant upholstery adding color to the otherwise solemn-looking dark wood. High-back dining chairs make for plenty of privacy, especially at the tables for two beside the curved-glass, floor-toceiling windows. There’s also a private room for up to 10 people.

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The food and drinks: M Krub offers a private dining experience where the food is plated up the French way: to individual diners and in courses. Not only is the presentation beautiful, the food is served on plates hand-painted by Chinese chef Liu Cheng prior to every serving. Tables must be reserved at least one day in advance, with prices starting from B2,800 for five courses to 8,000 for 10 courses at lunch, and B8,000-12,000 at dinner. Some dishes go beyond typical Chinese ingredients, as in the sauteed Pacific scallop on deep-fried, finely-sliced bread with mango mayonnaise and caviar, or medium-rare pan-grilled Kagoshima wagyu ribeye topped with mayonnaise-dijon mustard sauce. Others stick closer to home, such as the Chinese cabbage consomme, fried rice made with 12 assorted grains and the delectable chrysanthemum tofu in almond syrup, in which the chef showcases his knife skills by finely cutting the tofu

into hair-thin strips. (Note: they also serve shark’s fin.) Chef Razurel whips up French-style desserts, adding some Chinese flavors, like with the chocolate eclair with chrysanthemum sauce. Aside from tea, drinks include mocktails (B110), classic cocktails (B220), beers (from B120) and a long list of white, red and sparkling wines (starting at B320 by the glass).

Why you should care: While we’ve seen attempts to serve elevated Thai cuisine in Western-style arrangements, that hasn’t really been the case with Chinese food. And there’s certainly no lack of class or artistry here. Natcha Sanguankiattichai 2/F, Mahanakhon Cube, 96 Narathiwas Rd., 02-019-8105. Open daily 11:30am-2:30pm; 6-10pm. BTS Chong Nonsi

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El Toro

TABLE TALK Soy Sauce Bar

Hot Wheels Pizza

NEW AND NOTED

Got Beef

The owners of Grand Beef Farm in Pitsanulok and Birdie’s Bread Boutique (which makes buns for restaurants like Chef Bar and Crab and Claw) have opened up a butcher-slash-restaurant. El Toro (519 Sukhumvit Soi 29, 02-662-2880. BTS Asok/Phrom Phong) may look like a bare-bones pizza joint, but the selection spans cuts of wagyu from their own farm, as well as imported beef from Australia, New Zealand and Argentina, along with some house-made bacon and Brazilian-style sausages. Select cuts of beef can be charcoal grilled in-house, starting from B636 for 250g Australian grass-fed striploin. The thin-crust pizzas (B149-199 for 10-inch, B199-299 for 12-inch) are a whole lot more affordable, though.

Wood-Fire Wagon

The latest food truck in town is Hot Wheels Pizza (www.fb.com/ hotwheelspizzabkk), owned by San Francisco-born, Napoli-trained Teddy Blackway. The compact white truck and its woodfired oven serve up Neapolitan-style pizzas with dough that's

been fermented for at least 32 hours. Toppings span classics like margarita (B170 for 8-inch and B300 for 12-inch), Hawaiian (B190/B340) and four cheese (B220/B360) as well as the signature Teddy’s Favorite (four cheese, mushroom, black olive and chili, B250/B390). For now, the truck is a regular at Wishbeer Home Bar (between Sukhumvit Soi 63 and 65), parked from 6pm on Tue-Sun.

Hot Sauce

First it was nothing. Then they gave it to a Chiang Mai auntie to make khao soi. Then they just started serving gin-sodas in plastic cups. But now, the ground floor of Soy Sauce Factory looks like it's finally got its act together. In partnership with Edward Enscoe (of the erstwhile Abbot), the rebranded Soy Sauce Bar (11/1 Charoenkrung Soi 24, 061-835-6824) now serves as a Thai restaurant (think tourist staples) during the day, while nights welcome various Bangkok party collectives, including last month's Nylon music hopping night. Natcha Sanguanki-

T-Pochana 18 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 02-662-2247. Open daily 11am12am T-Pochana, also known as T-Restaurant, is a classic. The family-owned restaurant, opened in 1968 in bustling Pratunam, cooks up tasty, fresh and comforting Thai-Chinese seafood.

Though the new generation opened a swankier venue in Sukhumvit Soi 31, the quality remains the same. The attentive waiters actually know the menu, can make useful suggestions and, for items listed at “market price,” can rattle off the day’s rates without a second’s hesitation. Backstage, things are equally professional, with dishes getting churned out at breakneck speeds. Even after a few decades, T-Pochana is a reliable place for fresh quality seafood.

Exclusive privileges for Citibank credit cardmembers.

Get 15% discount on food only for Citibank Ultima, Preferred, and Select or get 10% discount on food only for other card types Today – 30 Nov 15

attichai and Oliver Irvine

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

Sofitel Wine Days

Whiteline

Brew Revolution This Oct 17 from 7pm, Whiteline celebrates Thai craft beers by offering a selection of local brews including Silom Beer, Mahanakhon, Triple Pearl, Happy New Beer, My Beer Friend and Blaney’s at only B160 a pop.

Silom Soi 8, 087-061-1117. BTS Sala Daeng

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.

Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit celebrates France’s wine harvesting season by hosting a few wine events.

Voila offers wine and cheese buffet every day from 6-10pm at B990/person through Oct 31. L’Appart rolls out a game-season-themed three-course menu with wine pairing (B1,999 or B2,899 with wine) throughout Oct, and a wine fair on Oct 17 from 11am-6pm (free entry) with wine starting from B515 per bottle.

189 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-126-999

Advertise your business with us ­

Wine Journey At Tables Grill, Spottswoode Estate wines are paired with a five-course dinner on Oct 21 from 7pm at B4,900/person. And Aussie Grosset & Torbreck wines are paired with a seafood menu on Oct 27 from 7pm at B4,900/person.

Grand Hyatt Erawan, 494 Ratchadamri Rd., 02-254-1234. BTS Ratchadamri

Deals

starting from 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

Groove’s Farmers Market Credit card/Debit card payment accepted

Meet the artisanal producers and e n j oy l o c a l l y- m a d e fo o d s a n d products at Groove. Oct 17-18, 11am-8pm.

Junker and Bar

999/99 Rama 1 Rd., 02-613-1270. BTS Siam

Wine Time Finally

Isan Dinner Partnering with Wine Garage, Le Du hosts a five-course Northeastern Thai dinner using ingredients from organic farms in Yasotorn, paired with five wines. B1,500/person. Oct 21.

Every Sat from 6:30-9pm, Junker and Bar offers a wine buffet at B499 with three kinds of red, three whites and two sangria.

454 Suan Phlu Soi 1, 085-100-3608

399/3 Silom Soi 7, 092-979-9969

Green Rock

Happy Beerday

Hard Rock Cafe offers vegetarian dishes throughout October in celebration of vegetarian awareness month.

This Oct 17, Beervana celebrates its third birthday with free beers and food at Training Ground.

424/3-6 Siam Square Soi 11, Rama 1 Rd., 02-251-0794

36/2 Sukhumvit Soi 69, 091-491-4169

Seafood Fest

Wine Appreciation Theo Mio hosts a five-course dinner, paired with Tenute Silvio Nardi Winery’s most celebrated wines, plus a talk with the owner of the winery.

B1,800/person. Oct 22.

G/F, InterContinental Bangkok, 973 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-656-0444

A complimentary drink to (see p. 21) to go with a seafood feast, every night at Barsu.

G/F, Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, 250 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-649-8358

Get Booking Get 20% off at 22 Kitchen, Orchid Cafe, The Kitchen Table, Quince Eatery & Bar and The Roof @ 38th Bar when you book through Chope and dine in October.

A Guide to Bangkok’s Best Restaurants BKmagazine.com/TopTables

New Venues Ryce Elements

Heavenly Touches From Nov 17-21, chef Onno Kokmeijer (of the Hotel Okura Amsterdam’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant Ciel Bleu) visits Elements to serve a sixcourse dinner (B5,600/person), a three-course set lunch (B3,200/person).

A Japanese onigiri specialist serving up funky flavors.

U Center, 46 Chulalongkorn Soi 42, 087092-7927

Eleven Twelfth A speakeasy-themed bar from the team behind Salt.

2/F, 111/2 Ari Soi 4, 02-619-6886

The Okura Prestige, 57 Wireless Rd., 02-687-9000

THE EASIEST WAY TO BOOK YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS 20

Find out more at www.chope.co/toptables

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bites FOOD REVIEWS

Benjarong HHHH Thai. Dusit Thani, 946 Silom Rd., 02-200-9000 #2345. Open daily 6-10pm, Mon-Fri 11:30-2:30pm.

MRT Silom/BTS Sala Daeng. BBB-BBBB. F

Benjarong’s lavish decor and five-star hotel service used to be the kind of thing connoiseurs of Thai cuisine would avoid like the plague. Except fancy, dainty Benjarong is currently one of the city’s best kitchens for genuine Thai flavors. It’s also one of the most inventive. The long-standing venue’s turnaround was orchestrated by Danish chef Morten Nielsen. Trained in the highflying art of molecular cuisine in Copenhagen, he got picked up by the city’s Michelin-star Thai restaurant, Kiin Kiin, to head the Siam Kempinski’s Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin here in Bangkok. Benjarong is taking things down a few notches, though, compared to Sra Bua’s science experiments.

The considerate modern touches retain Thai food’s comforting qualities and the requisite flavor profiles. So that while the deconstructed yam pla duk foo (B370) has diners tipping a bowl of crispy catfish and green mango shavings onto a tom yam custard with crabmeat, the combined effect remains unmistakably familiar—crispy

Marlin HHHH Japanese/Western. 117/4-5 Phahon Yothin Soi 7 (Ari), 02-023-3438. Open daily 4:30pm-midnight.

BTS Ari. BBB

With its bipolar mix of Japanese and Western comfort food, craft cocktails and alluring, industrial-tinged decor, Marlin reads pretty much like the quintessential Ari restaurant. The setting comes courtesy of Bangkok interior design doyens Be Gray (Casa Lapin), who dim the lights on their winning formula of brick, concrete, metal and greenery to achieve a mood that’s sophisticated yet somehow still twee, and altogether charming. The food falls into two categories—sushi and JapaneseWestern fusion. Neither is particularly subtle, though the massively-portioned maki and rolls have a sort of more-is-more appeal. The So Salmon rolls (aburi salmon, avocado, tempura bits and spicy sauce, B240) are dense, crunchy and gooey— we’ll have to take the kitchen’s word that Ratings

Price guide

PPPP Forget it PPPP Only if you’re in the neighborhood PPPP A pleasant dining experience PPPP Not to be missed

B BB BBB BBBB

BK pays for its meal and does not call ahead or sit with the chef.

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textures, zingy tom yam, sweet, soft crabmeat. The yam neua’s (grilled wagyu beef salad, B470) chunks of cos and cherry tomatoes make it look unmistakably Western but one bite and you’ll be transported back here thanks to the thick yam dressing’s tangy, salty and spicy notes.

Not all dishes are created equal in terms of creativity. Nicely plated, the moo palo (pork neck braised in five spices with Hong Kong broccoli, B470) remains a classically executed delight save for the addition of pumpkin puree. Was it meant as a replacement for prik namsom? If so, we’d have to question swapping a vinegary sauce for a sweet puree. It isn’t the only dish where we’d nitpick the balance of flavors (light on the chili, a bit too sweet), but there’s no faulting the superior ingredients, such as in the tom yam (B340) with plump, sweet shrimps or the kaeng kiew wan see krong neau toon (beef ribs in green curry, B470), whose meat is cooked sous-vide for 72-hours to tender, fall-off-the-bone perfection. Come dessert, the chef’s modern techniques culminate in a few more displays of virtuosity; and the basil ice cream with fresh pineapple and salty meringue (B210) definitely feels like a grand finale. Crispy, melt-in-your-mouth, salty, sweet, aromatic, icy, roomtemperature—it’s all there, and it works beautifully. This also happens to be a gorgeous restaurant, with giant-sized pillars, elaborate murals, views on a tropical garden and impeccable service. If you’re ready to splurge on modern Siamese haute cuisine, Benjarong is perhaps the most balanced package in town.

the salmon is fresh, though, because we simply can’t taste it under all that treacly sauce. It’s a similar story with the barbecue pork spareribs (starting at B350). The meat falls off the bone at the slightest nudge, but there’s no depth or tenderness, as if the over-sweet sauce has been slapped on at the last moment. The side of undercooked potatoes is about as sad as they come, too, though the crisp and nongreasy tempura onion rings get a tentative thumbs up. Elsewhere on the menu, the Kaisen Seafood Salad (B280) is another heavy-handed serving, featuring a generous amount of fresh salmon, squid and crabstick that’s drowning in a searing dressing. The creamy, Japanese-inspired pasta with prawn roe (B250) boasts a surprisingly balanced combination of seaweed and onsen egg, but the end result is more comforting blandness than anything inspiring. Of course, plating is immaculate. Service is quick if a little overeager—on our last visit, the food beat the drinks by a good 25 minutes. On that topic, we will vouch for the mellow, Japanindebted cocktails, created in collaboration with Niks Anuman (Drinks Academy, half the cool bars around town). When you factor in big servings, drink prices that won’t kill you and a live music corner, we can see why Marlin makes for a popular hangout spot, but the kitchen’s offerings are patchy at best.

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

Symbols

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

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now SAT Free Fest

THU Building Bridges

Aww, thanks AIS. For the ninth year in a row, the phone operator is throwing a free music festival, Melody of Life, in the heart of the city. This year’s line up, performing at CentralWorld’s (Ratchadamri Rd., BTS Chit Lom) outdoor stadium on Oct 17-18, includes Slur, Somkiat, Monomania, Mattnimare, Helmetheads and The Whitest Crow. Now give us 4G and we’ll love you even more.

Visit fb.com/MelodyOfLife.Festival for more information.

Last year’s Threshold opening was so good that we don’t remember it. That’s why we’ll be heading back to Bridge (Charoenkrung Soi 51, BTS Saphan Taksin) this Oct 17 when the curators behind some of this city’s best art spaces collaborate once again for Threshold Part 3. For this year, Toot Yung Art Center, H Gallery and Bridge Art Space have pulled together a collection of top digital art talents, including Skall (France), Dhanainun Dhanarachwattana (Thailand) and Sabato Visconti (Brazil). Runs through Nov 30.

SAT On the Books

FRI Use Your Imagination The B-Floor dancers are back at Pridi Banomyong Institute (B-Floor Room, Sukhumvit Soi 55, BTS Thong Lo) this Oct 16-26 for Teerawat Mulvilai's dance theater production, Manoland.

Exploring what the world would be like if imagination took precedence over knowledge, this is a cautionary tale about sharing too much personal information with others. Tickets available at bit.ly/1NGlbQE.

Calling all bookworms: the 20th Bangkok Book Fair this year takes place from Oct 21-Nov 1 at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (60 New Ratchadapisek Rd, 02-229-3000. MRT Queen Sirikit National Convention Center) and promises to be bigger and better than before. Showcasing and selling books from publishers all around the country, along with book launches and talks with famous national authors, this massive event will have something for all ages.

NIGHTLIFE

Kartell

REVOLUTION @ LIVE RCA

DARIUS AT LIVE RCA

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 of music: 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 www.ticketmelon.com/event/revolution. Oct 16, 7pm. Live RCA Bangkok, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 086-860-0808. B200-350.

The French house producer performs deep bass and space disco supported by Slomororo and Sir Walt. Oct 22, 8pm. Live RCA Bangkok, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 086-860-0808. Free.

KARTELL @ LIVE RCA

Darius

House DJ Kartell from France performs a mix of house, nu-disco and R’n’B in an outdoor setting that will also host food trucks. Oct 18, 7pm.

Live RCA Bangkok, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 086-8600808. Free.

THIS IS HOUSE PRESENTS SPECTRUM FT. JAYDUBB

Every Thursday night in October is dedicated to house music. This time around is DJ Jaydubb, co-creater of Berlin Beats, who will be supported by Alex iM!x and Widowa Woody. Oct 22, 9pm. Ku De Ta, Sathorn Square Building, North Sathorn Rd. Free.

such as "Move & Focus" and "The Soul Tape."

Oct 24, 9pm. Dark Bar, 2/F, Ekamai Mall, Ekkamai Soi 10, 02-381-9896, 090 528 4646. B200 (includes one 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.

KONTRABAND FT. MC DAN STEZO

Kontraband returns for their 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 BK Magazine Friday, October 16, 2015

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now GIGS

Big Beatz in Little China

BIG BEATZ IN LITTLE CHINA

Tungevaag & Rabaan

TIGER BEER PRESENTS SMALL LIKE ROOM SPIRIT PARTY

Turning the old Chinatown cinema into a musical hall, Ex Nihilo presents a night of big beats, mashups and live instrumentals in front of a backdrop of moving images. Oct 22, 8pm. Yaowarat Chinatown Heritage Center, 661 Charoenkrung Rd., 02-623-3329. B350-400. MRT Hua Lamphong.

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 www.fb.com/smallroommusic. Oct 29, 7pm. JJ Green, 110/46 Lad Phrao Soi 18, 086-331-5657-8. B499. BTS Mo Chit.

TUNGEVAAG & RABAAN LIVE AT LEVELS

16 YEARS PANDA RECORDS

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 includes one free drink. BTS Nana.

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

CONCERTS & FESTIVALS

Melody of life

XPERIENCE: A DECADE OF MEMORIES

Local chorus group The Bangkok Voices performs its greatest hits in celebration of their 10th anniversary. Oct 19, 7:30pm.

Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456. B200-350. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

MELODY OF LIFE

AIS’s ninth musical festival features artists and bands such as Somkiat, Monomania, Mattinimare, Helmetheads and The Whitest Crow. See www.fb.com/MelodyOfLife.Festival. Oct 17-18, 12pm. CentralWorld, 4, 4/1-4/2, 4/4, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-635-1111. Free. BTS Chit Lom. MUSICALS ROCK

Conductor and music director Michael England returns for the third consecutive year to work with the Bangkok Sym-

phony 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. B5002,500 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

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

The first of the concert series by the famed producer Zomkiat features performances by Triumph Kingdom and Yokee Playboy, who’ll be taking the fans through some of their dance hits from the ‘90s. Oct 30, 7pm. Moonstar Studio, 701 Lad Phrao Soi 80 (Lad Phrao), 02539-3881. B1,500 from Thaiticketmajor.

CLASSICAL 26TH TOYOTA CLASSICS CHARITY CONCERT

David Russell

DAVID RUSSELL LIVE IN BANGKOK

Grammy Award-winning classical guitarist David Russell performs tracks from his 16 studio albums. Oct 22, 8pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02262-3456. B1,500-3,000 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

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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., 02-2623456. B300-2,500 from Thaiticketmajor.

MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

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STAGE PERFORMANCES

Homrong The Musical

dance ALICE BY GAUTHIER DANCE

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. B8003,000 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

musicals 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.

HOMRONG THE MUSICAL RESTAGE

A musical that retells the famous story of revered musical master Luang Pradit Pairoh, who lived during the reigns of Rama 5-7, featuring ranad aek (Thai xylophone) soloist and theater stars such as Suprawat Patumasood, Korakun Suttikosas and Satida Pornhompiriya. Nov 6-Oct 22, 7pm. Siam Square One, Rama 1 Rd. B1,000-3,000 from Thaiticketmajor. BTS Siam.

theater MANOLAND

Teerawat Mulvilai's dance theater production explores what the world would be like if imagination took precedence over

TAKE NOTE

knowledge. Tickets available at bit.ly/1NGlbQE Oct 16-26, 8pm. Pridi Banomyong Institute, B-Floor Room, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 02-3813860-1, 08-6787-7155.

B450-600. BTS Thong Lo. 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. Through 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 air stewards from three different airlines, and his attempts to maintain the relationships without each of the men finding out about each other. English subtitles provided. Tickets available at 095-924-4555 or on.fb.me/1jpksIB Through Nov 3, 7:30pm.

Thong Lor Art Space, 58/14-15 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 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, 099447-4670. B800.

Death Cab for Cutie Live in Bangkok American alt-rock veterens Death Cab For Cutie will perform in Bangkok on Mar 3, 2016 at Moonstar Studio, as part of their Asian tour taking in destinations like Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. The alt-emo three-piece of Benjamin Gibbard (vocals, guitars, piano), Nick Hammer (bass guitar, backing vocals) and Jason McGerr (drums) will be performing tracks like "Black Sun" and "Little Wanderer" from Kintsugi, their eighth studio album released earlier this year. Tickets will be B1,800 available from Thaiticketmajor from Nov 2 onwards.

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now ART Opening

BLAME IT ON THE WEATHER

RUSKIG: THE IDEA OF LOVE

Kade Javanalikhikara exhibits his Chiang Mai-inspired abstract paintings on the subject of climate change. Oct 19-Dec 4, 9am. Chulalongkorn University, 254 Phaya Thai Rd., 02-215-0871/-3.

Swedish graffiti expert Parra Andreasson, aka Ruskig, shows his perception of love in this pop-up exhibition. Oct 16, 7pm. U Baan, 204 Soi Chinda Thawin, Si Phraya Rd., 088-088-5140.

THRESHOLD PART 3

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

Curators from Toot Yung Art Center, H Gallery and Bridge Art Space are back with a group exhibition featuring digital artists and photographers such as Skall (France), Dhanainun Dhanarachwattana (Thailand) and Sabato Visconti (Brazil). Oct 17-Sep 30, 7pm. Bridge, Charoenkrung Soi 51, 086986-9421. BTS Saphan Thaksin.

HIGHLIGHT

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

Through Nov 29, 11am. Koi Art Gallery, 245 Sukhumvit Soi 31 (Soi Sawasdee), 02-662-3218.

Bangkok Theater Festival

The 13th annual Bangkok Theater Festival returns this year on Nov 3-13, drawing in more performers, directors and theater lovers than any other theater event in the country. To celebrate the country’s rising theater troupes, the Bangkok Theater Network hosts 12 days of performances at the BACC and seven other theater halls in the city. Under the theme “New View, New Eyes,” the schedule is packed with over 70 performances across all genres, as well as improv workshops and post-show discussions. Here’s a look at what’s coming up in the opening week:

The Art of Being Right

Bring Chalee Home

KRAITHONG

THE ART OF BEING RIGHT

A Southern folk performance about Chalawan, a crocodile whose head is the key to unlocking the door of love for an old couple who have been together since their previous lives.

When Pipo and Por decide to break up, they must figure out how to do it the right way in this emotional performance by the Splashing Theater Company.

Dates: Nov 3-4, 7pm and Nov 7-8, 1pm

B300. 1/F Art Cafe, BACC

Dates: Nov 5-15, 7:30pm

B200-300. 5/F Auditorium, BACC

BRING CHALEE HOME

A GLASS MENAGERIE ON A HOT TIN ROOF NAMED DESIRE

When a mother and her young daughter meet Chalee, a lost and confused boy, they kindly offer to help him find his way back home.

This drama/comedy piece by the New Theater Society explores the chaos that unfolds when three drama students find out they are not only neighbors, but also in love with the same man.

Dates: Nov 5-6, 7:10pm and Nov 7-8, 1:10pm B250-300. 4/F Mini Box, BACC

Dates: Nov 3-4, 7pm and Nov 7-8, 3pm B350-500. 4/F Studio, BACC

Tickets at bangkoktheaterfestival.com.

Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre, 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-260-2606-8. BTS National Stadium

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FILM Opening BK

PI

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THE INTERN (USA)

THE WALK (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

Biography/Drama. Based on the true story of French high-wire artist Phillipe Petit (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), who dreams of walking on a tightrope between the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center. Oct 15

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WHITE GOD (USA)

THE DOWN (THAI)

Drama. After the state enacts a new law taxing mixed breed, a dog separated from his young owner teams up with other street dogs to revolt against the uncaring human society. 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

Upcoming STRAIGHT OUTTA COMPTON (USA)

THE LITTLE PRINCE (USA)

Biography/Drama. In late-1988, NWA, a hip-hop group from Compton, Los Angeles, releases its debut album offering a brutally honest depiction of life on the streets. Oct 22

Animation. Based on the popular French novella by Antoine de Saint-Exupery; the tale of a pilot (voiced by Jeff Bridges) who crashes in the middle of the Sahara Desert to find a little prince (voiced by Paul Rudd) who has arrived from another planet. Oct 22

BRIDGE OF SPIES (USA)

Drama. An American lawyer working for the CIA (Tom Hanks) is sent to the Soviet Union during the Cold War on a mission to rescue a captured US pilot who has been sentenced to 10 years in prison. Oct 22

THE VISIT (USA)

Horror. Siblings Becca and Tyler are sent to meet their grandparents for the first time on the other side of the country, only to find that the old couple holds dark secrets that could prevent them from ever returning home. Oct 22

Free Screenings 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., 02-670-4200.

21 Oct. Weekends in Normandy (2013): Over the course of a few weekends in the countryside, two young couples fall in and out of love, leading to them to realize it sometimes doesn’t take much to spoil the romance.

FOREIGN CORRESPONDENTS CLUB OF THAILAND

Screened at 7:30pm at FCCT, Penthouse, Maneeya Center Building, Phloen Chit Rd., 02-652-0580-1. BTS Chitlom. 19 Oct. Sam (2015): The drama unfolds when sevenyear-old Sam must temporarily move in with his alcoholic father for the first time since the divorce of his parents.

SPECIAL SCREENING Mitr Chaibancha Tribute Throughout October, the Thai Film Archive is screening movies to mark 45 years since the passing of the legendary Thai actor Mitr Chaibancha.

Regarded as one of the leading figures in the country’s film industry, Mitr starred in 266 films during his lifetime. Select films will be screened at the Srisalaya Community Theater on Tue-Fri at 5:30pm or on weekends at 1pm and 3pm, including classics such as Jao Insee, Pra Apaiyamanee and Pra Jun Daeng. Entrance is free. Visit www.fb.com/thaifilmarchive or fapot.org for the full schedule.

LIBRA (Sep 23-Oct 22): Many astronomers believe that our universe began with the Big Bang. An inconceivably condensed speck of matter exploded, expanding into thousands of billions of stars. It must have been a noisy event, right? Actually, no. Astronomers estimate that the roar of the primal eruption was just 120 decibels—less than the volume of a live rock concert. I suspect you are also on the verge of your own personal Big Bang, Libra. It, too, will be relatively quiet for the amount of energy it unleashes.

SCORPIO (Oct 23-Nov 21): For now, you are excused from further work on the impossible tasks that have been grinding you down. And if you would also like to distance yourself from the farcical jokes the universe has been playing, go right ahead. To help enforce this transition, I hereby authorize you to enjoy a time of feasting, which will serve as an antidote to your baffling trials. And I hereby declare that you have been as successful at weathering these trials as you could possibly be, even if the concrete proof of that is not yet entirely visible.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22-Dec 21): One afternoon in September, I was hiking along a familiar path in the woods. As I passed my favorite grandmother oak, I spied a thick, six-foot-long snake on the trail in front of me. In hundreds of previous visits, I had never before seen a creature bigger than a mouse.

The serpent’s tail was hidden in the brush, but its head looked more like a harmless gopher snake’s than a dangerous rattler’s. I took the opportunity to sing it three songs. It stayed for the duration, then slipped away after I finished. What a great omen! The next day, I made a tough decision to leave behind a good part of my life so as to focus more fully on a great part. Sagittarius, I foresee a comparable breakthrough for you sometime soon.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 19): Canadian author Margaret Atwood has finished a new manuscript. It’s called Scribbler Moon. But it won’t be published as a book until the year 2114. Until then, it will be kept secret, along with the texts of many other writers who are creating work for a “Future Library.” The project’s director is conceptual artist Katie Paterson, who sees it as a response to George Orwell’s question, “How could you communicate with the future?”

With this as your inspiration, try this exercise: Compose five messages you would like to deliver to the person you will be in 2025.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20-Feb 18): Every hour of your life, millions of new cells are born to replace old cells that are dying. That’s why many parts of your body are composed of an entirely different collection of cells than they were years ago. If you are 35, for example, you have replaced your skeleton three times. Congratulations! Your creativity is spectacular, as is your ability to transform yourself. Normally these instinctual talents aren’t nearly as available to you in your efforts to recreate your psyche, but they are now. In the coming months, you will have extraordinary power to revamp everything about yourself, not just your physical organism.

PISCES (Feb 19-Mar 20): The coming weeks will NOT be a favorable time to seek out allies you don’t even like that much or adventures that provide thrills you have felt a thousand times before. But the near future will be an excellent time to go on a quest for your personal version of the Holy Grail or an answer to the Sphinx’s riddle. In other words, Pisces, I advise you to channel your yearning toward experiences that steep your heart with a sense of wonder. Don’t bother with anything that degrades or desensitizes you.

ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 19): Here’s actor Bill Murray’s advice about relationships: “If you have someone that you think is The One, don’t just say, ‘OK, let’s pick a date. Let’s get married.’ Take that person and travel around the world. Buy a plane ticket for the two of you to go to places that are hard to go to and hard to get out of. And if, when you come back, you’re still in love with that person, get mar-

ried at the airport.” In the coming weeks, Aries, I suggest you make comparable moves to test your own closest alliances. See what it’s like to get more seriously intimate.

TAURUS (Apr 20-May 20): Some firefighters use a wetter kind of water than the rest of us. It contains a small amount of biodegradable foam that makes it ten times more effective in dousing blazes. I suggest you work on making your emotions “wetter” than usual. By that I mean the following: When your feelings arise, give them your reverent attention.

Marvel at how mysterious they are. Be grateful for how much life force they endow you with. Whether they are relatively “negative” or “positive,” regard them as interesting revelations that provide useful information and potential opportunities for growth.

GEMINI (May 21-Jun 20): Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell is a BBC TV min-series set in the early 19th century. It’s the fictional story of a lone wizard, Mr. Norrell, who seeks to revive the art of occult magic so as to accomplish practical works, like helping the English navy in its war against the French navy.

Norrell is pleased to find an apprentice, Jonathan Strange, and draws up a course of study for him.

Norrell tells Strange that the practice of magic is daunting, “but the study is a continual delight.” If you’re interested in taking on a similar challenge, Gemini, it’s available.

CANCER (Jun 21-Jul 22): We humans have put buttons on clothing for seven millennia. But for a long time these small knobs were purely ornamental--meant to add beauty but not serve any other function. That changed in the 13th century, when our ancestors finally got around to inventing buttonholes. Buttons could then serve an additional purpose, providing a convenient way to fasten garments. I foresee the possibility of a comparable evolution in your personal life. You have an opening to dream up further uses for elements that have previously been one-dimensional. Brainstorm about how you might expand the value of familiar things.

LEO (Jul 23-Aug 22): You would be wise to rediscover and revive your primal innocence. If you can figure out how to shed a few shreds of your sophistication and a few slivers of your excess dignity, you will literally boost your intelligence. That’s why I’m inviting you to explore the kingdom of childhood, where you can encounter stimuli that will freshen your adulthood. Your upcoming schedule could include jumping in mud puddles, having uncivilized fun with wild toys, and drinking boisterously from fountains of youth.

VIRGO (Aug 23-Sept 22): While still a young man, Virgo author Leo Tolstoy wrote that “I have not met one man who is morally as good as I am.” He lived by a strict creed. “Eat moderately” was one of his “rules of life,” along with “Walk for an hour every day.” Others were equally stern: “Go to bed no later than ten o’clock” and “Only do one thing at a time.”

He did provide himself with wiggle room, however. One guideline allowed him to sleep two hours during the day. Another specified that he could visit a brothel twice a month. Now is a favorable time to revisit your own rules of life. As you refine yourself to these fundamental disciplines, be sure to give yourself enough slack.

Srisalaya Community Theater, 94 Moo 3, Salaya, Buddha Monthon Sai 5 Rd., Nakhonpathom, 02-482-2013.

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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

Pick up at

venues

Nikko Café Ekkamai Soi 12

Quince Sukhumvit Soi 45

Le Cafe des Stagiaires Sathorn Soi 12

See full list at www.bkmagazine.com/bkdistribution Contact : marketing@asia-city.co.th

BK Magazine Friday, October 16, 2015

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