BK Magazine 627 February 12, 2016

it's free!

♥

BK MAGAZINE NO. 627 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2016. www.bkmagazine.com

Cover_627_Feb12_16_3.indd 1

2/5/16 6:25 PM

page 3 Dude, where’s Duangrit?

06 cover story

The Sweetest Thing 04 upfront

14 health

Journalist Ethics

Wacky Workouts 16 bites

18 blends

Hit Refresh

Sathorn Rumble

20 bites

26 BK Now

Koh Chang to Capital

Stage Names

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 Branded content associate Sureepak Janyapat Junior Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Junior Writers Natcha Sanguankiattichai, Bonnie Sananvatananont, Kankanid Mitrpakdee Production Supervisor Komkrit Klinkaeo 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

Administrator Yaovaluck Srisermsri Accountant Manita Bangmoung Contributors Rob Brezsny, Kathy MacLeod Intern Joseph Lam Cover Panita Thiraphapong Cover Photo Paris Mikki

Regional Marketing Manager Pavida Chitprasertsuk IT Manager Takrit Jitjaroen Distribution Manager Suda Angsuputiphant Finance Manager Supaporn Bangmoung Assistant Finance Manager Anchalee Limkhamduang Senior Accountant Maneeya Kanthongdang

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

Group Directors Chief Executive Officer Gretchen Worth gworth@asia-city.co.th Group Digital Director Greg Duncan duncann@asia-city.com.sg

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

Riots break out in Chinatown’s Soi Nana as talks without Duangrit Bunnag are announced (Bangkok) Yesterday, around 9pm, rumors of a new series of talks and workshops about design, urbanism and the creative industry began swirling among the punters at Teens of Thailand, Tep Bar, 23 Bar & Gallery and El Chiringuito. By 11pm, when it was announced that Duangrit Bunnag would not be speaking at the event, unruly behavior erupted, with damage estimated to be in the range of 15 hurt feelings and 20 counts of harsh language.

Police are investigating who broke the news, which, although true, authorities claim is “dangerous information that could cause misunderstanding and social division.”

They have currently zeroed in on Note Dudesweet, who posted a link from the Facebook page of Creativities Untold to his personal page with the words, “Come see my art!

Woot!”

The event is set to host a debate between Philip Cornwel-Smith and Joe Cummings on the history of khao pad America and live graffiti demonstrations by Alex Face and P.7. Initial feedback was hugely positive. “Can’t wait to listen to the A Day Editor talk about bicycles!” read one comment.

But soon, netizens spotted that Duangrit Bunnag was nowhere to be found on the lineup.

“I’m not sure who noticed it first,” said Arm (not his real name), 23, who is pursuing a Master’s in Electronic Arts in New York. “But I distinctly heard a gasp and then a scream, followed by, ‘Duangrit Bunnag is not going to be at this thing!’”

The riot police, who were still stuck in Pattaya controlling the mobs of angry British bridge players looting the streets, were not able to arrive at the scene until 3am, when everyone had moved to Wong’s anyway.

“It was too late. The damage was done. People said things that they would later regret,” said Mike Bran, an expat who runs a bar-slash-gallery serving Croatian-style sandwiches and Mekhong cocktails. “One girl was just crying, ‘Why do they hate Duangrit! His hair is so beautiful!’ It was heartbreaking.”

Creativities Untold runs from Feb 12-19 at the Bangkok Center for Contemporary Culture. Entrance is free for those with Instagram accounts with over 1,000 followers.

Alternatively, Bangkok Edge is open to all and Duangrit Bunnag will be speaking there. See BK Now, page 25.

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

get in the loop

bkmagazine.com

contest, updates, stories

facebook.com/bkmagazine

latest news and trends

@bkmagazine

see what’s happening

@bkmagazine BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

TOC_627_Feb12_16.indd 3

3

2/8/16 5:42 PM

upfront HOT OR NOT

Hot: Sushi royalty

Not: Croissant royalty

Sorry, Monsieur Chatenet. Your croissants may have won over the pastry buffs at Paris’s Chambre professionnelle des Artisans Boulangers-Pâtissiers, but over here, where our knowledge of how good croissants should taste began and ended with Big C not all that long ago, they manage to play second fiddle to a local label (see bit.ly/1L2qENV). Let’s hope we don’t go mistaking New York fish-filleter extraordinaire Masato Shimizu’s perfect edomae sushi for Oishi.

INTERVIEW

Hot: Old-school burgers Not: Gourmet burgers As if Daniel Thaiger’s salty, buttery original burgers weren’t good enough, the man who sparked Bangkok’s food truck revolution has gone and done it again—this time in collaboration with Seenspace nice-guy-in-residence Chris Foo of BREW. The result is a three-pattie cheese-oozing beast that laughs in the face of anything so fancy as even a slice of tomato (see bit.ly/1L2rMRS).

Hot: Dentists in Journalism

Not: Dentists in America

If you choose to stare into people’s mouths for a living, you must be weird. If you choose someone who chose to stare into people’s mouths for a living to run a public-interest news corporation, you must be even weirder. That’s exactly what Thai PBS’s Policy Board did when it appointed dentist and former Thai Health Promotion Foundation cove Dr. Krissada Ruang-areerat as the station’s top man—in complete contradiction to one of the station’s own laws that says media pros only need apply. With this nation’s opinion of dentists currently at rock bottom, let’s hope he doesn’t blow it!

Hot: Mangmoom cards Not: Rabbit cards Did you ever use your Rabbit Card to pay for McDonald’s or cinema tickets? Of course you didn’t. You’re normal. But finally, the one thing you have been dreaming about using it for is about to happen. The BTS and MRT will soon merge their payment system so that one card works on both networks—just like in civilized cities. Only it won’t be called a Rabbit Card. It’ll be a Mangmoom Card, and it’ll also let you hop on the ARL, BRT and something else with a logo we don’t recognize.

THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

4

Journalist Thapanee Ietsrichai, 38, has found herself in hot water many times. She was accused of lese majeste towards the King of Cambodia and branded a traitor to Thailand for reporting on the Rohingya immigration crisis. But last month, Amnesty International Thailand vindicated her tireless work when it named her the winner of the 2015 Media Awards’ digital television category. BK caught up with her to talk about investigative journalism in Thailand, and the criticism she receives from home.

After all the criticism, how does it feel to have won this award?

I don’t care. I don’t care that I’ve gone from traitor to superwoman journalist. I just hope this award can make people in this city understand the humanitarian issues that surround them; there are so many people living in misery whose fate is unknown.

they were headed. While I work as a journalist, I’m still a human. If my job is about telling the truth, I have to do my job. I had these clips in my phone and had a chance to tell these people’s story, so why not? If I hadn’t done so, how could I live in peace?

Their faces will haunt me for the rest of my life.

How do you respond to those who say your reporting is too dramatic?

I don’t deny that my reporting is dramatic, especially during the Rohingya reports. I was the only journalist allowed to accompany the Thai Navy and observe their operation. My cameraman already went back to shore as his camera ran out of battery and we needed to send news to the station that night. I decided to go alone with my iPhone and took all the clips myself to show how bad the conditions faced by Rohingya immigrants were. Those men were so skinny and no one on board knew how to control the boat properly. Children and women were crying and begging for help as they were pushed outside Thai territory with no idea where

How do you feel about the rifts which your reports on the Rohingya have stirred up in Thai society?

I never expected my reports to stir up so much drama between Thai people.

There are those who support humanitarian processes and those who don’t.

Social media lets people vent their anger more easily. I do feel guilty that I may have caused some Thais to hate Rohingya, but I don’t feel sorry for broadcasting the story to the world.

get in the loop

bkmagazine.com

Have you ever been threatened due to your work?

Many times. I even had a six-figure price put on my head by powerful businessmen when I tried to expose a scheme involving deforestation and corruption seven years ago.

giveaways, updates, stories

facebook.com/bkmagazine

How do you feel about the current state of Thai journalism?

We have many more reporters than before, but just a few of them do investigative news. I feel journalists today don’t do much investigation, don’t research the topic, go to the source, find the right subject in the field and bring back news that no one’s heard before. The outcome is we have news stories which are all the same.

Which of your reports are you most proud of?

It would be my recent work, investigating Thai sailors left in Indonesia for a decade before being rescued by the Thai government. I’m also proud of my work during the 2011 Japan tsunami, when I spent nearly two weeks tracking down Thai victims. I finally found them in Sendai and was the only one to report on them. Their family back in Thailand cried when they discover those were still alive. Interview

by Monruedee Jansuttipan

see what we’re up to

@bkmagazine

by Kathy MacLeod kathymacleod.blogspot.com

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

Upfront_627_Feb12_16_NEW.indd 4

2/8/16 4:48 PM

cover story

So Sweet!

Treat your Valentine’s date to some of the very best desserts in Bangkok. Here are all our new favorites.

By Natcha Sanguankiattichai

1.

7.

PANNA COTTA AT 80/20 (B180)

After the huge success of their honey toast, this favorite dessert chain has found another way to shine. Basically a shaved ice dessert, the kakigori melts our heart thanks to its softness and toppings that aren't overly sweet despite the drizzling saccharine looks.

Light and refreshing, chef Saki Hoshino’s coconut lemongrass panna cotta is the perfect palate cleanser after a meal. The accompanying fruit complements it perfectly.

1052-1054 Charoenkrung Rd., 095-843-2056. Open Wed-Mon 5pm-midnight

2.

PANDAN AND PISTACHIO AT SRA BUA (B300)

323/3 Thonglor Soi 13, 02-712-9266. Open daily 11am-midnight

4

1

Chef Hendrik Yde Andersen’s take on lod chong (pandan cendol) for the new menu comes fashionably presented with warm Thai caramel for you to pour on a pandan white-chocolate disc, revealing below a cutely plated scoop of ice cream sitting atop lod chong, coconut and pistachio. The coconut cream served alongside it with some coriander lightens the otherwise rich treat.

3.

70/5 Sukhumvit Soi 63, 097-267-2626. Open Sun-Thu noon8:30pm; Fri-Sat noon-11pm

3

11

2/F, The Seasons, 899 Phahon Yothin Soi 1, 088-577-0502. Open daily 10am-8:30pm

Le Rich Condominium, 557 Sathu Pradit Soi 41, 092-408-0308.

Open Tue-Sat 8am-5pm; Sun 8am-1pm

10.

VANILLA TART AT PARIS MIKKI (B165)

5.

26 Ekkamai Soi 10, 02-381-9891. Open Fri-Sat 6:30-10:30pm

11.

8

DOUBLE FROMAGE CHEESECAKE AT LE TAO (B890)

15 Soi Tha Klang, 02-004-8771. Open Thu-Tue 10am-9pm

5

G/F, Siam Paragon, 991/1 Rama 1 Rd. Open daily 10am-10pm.

BTS Siam

MANGO CHEESE BINGSU AT SULBING (B295)

Don’t let the glorious look of the melon bingsu fool you into avoiding Sulbing’s real star: the mango bingsu. The sweet, sharp taste of mango is just perfect with the refreshing shaved ice.

Siam Square Soi 11, 02-261-7554. Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Siam

6

SOY MILK ICE CREAM AT FARM TO TABLE HIDEOUT (B72)

This frozen version of the classic Thai morning warm drink comes topped with red beans, job's tears and crispy little pa tong ko. It’s also deliciously reminiscent of the real thing.

This cold, double-decker cheesecake from Hokkaido almost has the consistency of ice cream, but the taste packs a delicious amount of cream cheese.

6.

CORN AT UPSTAIRS

This semifreddo dessert on the restaurant’s current prix fixe menu (B4,900) sees corn custard and caramel popcorn blended with the savory notes of coriander gel and other leaves to create very complex flavors.

Chef Carol Boosaba does some of the best cream in Bangkok, as reflected in her delicious mille feuille. Simple yet so sophisticated, the classic vanilla tart, made using chantilly cream and pastry cream, packs so much vanilla flavor without feeling at all heavy on your palate.

1/F, Metha Wattana, 27 Sukhumvit Soi 19, 088-870-0020. Open Tue-Fri 10am-9pm; Sat-Sun 9am-9pm

9.

COCONUT CAKE AT FAT BEAVER (B85)

Young coconut plays a big role in this fragrant cake thanks to a hearty big middle layer of the stuff. The rest is all soft, airy sponge that makes you want to keep eating more and more.

On top of his abundant creations made using puff pastry like croissants and gallette, you have to try chef Chatenet’s little chouquettes flavored with aromatic vanilla. So addictive.

4.

8.

KOICHA CREAM AT PEACE (B190-280)

This scoop of chemical-free milk ice cream sitting atop genuine matcha packs seriously rich flavors despite its light texture. The deconstructed serving also allows you to enjoy the flavors of the ice cream and the matcha separately.

Lobby/F, Siam Kempinski Hotel, Rama 1 Rd., 02-162-9000. Open daily noon-3pm, 6-11pm . BTS Siam

CHOUQUETTE AT MAISON CHATENET (B10)

KAKIGORI AT AFTER YOU (B235)

12.

ICE CREAM BY GUSS DAMN GOOD (B80)

This new ice-cream contender promises fresh craft ice cream in funky flavors. Cream-based options include the milky Don’t Give Up #18 and peanut butter jelly, but we’re more partial to the sorbets like the Virgin Umeshu and Tokyo Mist (yuzu orange).

2

6

Kuppadeli, 4/F, Centerpoint of Siam Square, Rama 1 Rd. BTS Siam. www.fb.com/gussdamngood

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

Cover_Story_627_Feb12_16_NEW.indd 6

2/8/16 4:51 PM

cover story 13.

ARROZ CON LECHE AT OSITO (B170)

Chef Daniel Bucher’s take on this Spanish classic sees rice slow-cooked perfectly in flavorful milk that’s spiced up with a kick of cassia bark powder, served alongside dulce de leche (milk caramel) and a mix of salted nuts.

Mahatun Plaza, 888/23-24 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-6514399. Open daily 7:30am-11pm. BTS Phloen Chit

14.

15

22

26

14

LEMON SORBET AT PIZZA MASSILIA (B290)

This sorbet captures the delightful freshness of lemon and perfectly reflects the Mediterranean vibe of this pizzeria—the perfect sweet note to finish your meal.

24

15/1 Soi Ruam Rudi, Phloen Chit Rd., 02-651-5091.

Open 5-11pm. BTS Phloen Chit

15.

GELATO AT GHIGNONI (B89)

It takes a real gelateria to show you the difference between gelato and ice cream. And here it is. Do try the classic Italian flavors like pistachio, made using Sicilian pistachio and hazelnut.

28

16

21

25

G/F, Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-651-8688. Open daily 11am-10pm. BTS Phrom Phong

16.

CHURROS AT WARM WOOD CAFE (B220)

Not only are the airy churros delicious and nongreasy, but the spot-on yuzu and chocolate dips also help make it even more exciting.

137/1 Thonglor Soi 10, 02-714-9974. Open daily TueSun 9-1am

17.

BERRY BANG BANG AT SWEETERY This treat from Iron Chef Thanunya “Gai” (B195) Kaikaew’s looks like a little orange tree. The

Take vanilla ice cream, add unlimited amounts of toppings like cookies, jelly, cheesecake bites, toasted almonds, frozen berries and dried strawberry, then serve the whole thing in an upturned ice-cream cone and you’ve got Sweetery’s star dessert.

3/F, The Taste Thonglor, Thonglor Soi 11, 081-172-1472.

Open Tue-Sun noon-9pm

18.

SCARLET TOAST AT NOT JUST ANOTHER CUP (B280)

Dark rye bread gets a huge lift thanks to cottage cheese lemon zest spread, strawberries, raspberries, cherries, wild honey and pistachio— never a dull bite.

75/1, Sathorn Soi 10, 02-635-3464. Open daily 7am-7pm. BTS Chong Nonsi

19.

HOTCAKE AT KNOCK (B300)

We love this thick pancake thanks to its warm and comforting quality. There’s also a saltiness to the batter that just works with the sweet fruits.

2/F, 333/1 Sukhumvit Soi 55, between Thonglor soi 15 and 17, 081-375-6625. Open Tue-Fri noon-9pm; SatSun 11am-10pm

20.

FRUIT FAMILY AT FRUITURDAY (B119)

The star of this fruit-focused dessert cafe from Chiang Mai is its light and refreshing coconut pudding served with a variety of fruits.

Siam Square Soi 11, 082-204-0066. Open daily 11am-10pm. BTS National Stadium

8

21.

GRAND MARNIER AND CAVIAR PARFAIT AT IRON CHEF TABLE (B390)

orange macarons and orange-shaped parfait are balanced out by caviar and wrapped in yuzu jelly.

1/F, The Taste, Thonglor Soi 11, 092-768-7723. Open daily 11am-2pm, 5pm-midnight

22.

NILA AT WANTONG CAFE (B95)

This Thai-inspired cake is basically one good coconut cake—fluffy coconut charcoal sponge with light and fragrant coconut cream that holds some rice berry traces.

Soi 1/4, Section 26, Chatuchak Weekend Market, 088885-7751. Open Wed-Sun 9am-5pm. BTS Mo Chit

23.

LADY IN RED AT JONA WAFFLE (B230)

Jona’s overnight yeast-raised waffle yields a crispier crust, lighter interior, and little trace of yeasty flavor. Just the waffle alone (B120) with some maple syrup is good enough in itself, but we also love this version with fresh strawberries, blueberries, yogurt honey, berry sauce and strawberry ice cream—super light and fresh.

2/F, The Commons, Thonglor Soi 17. Open daily noon10pm

24.

CHEESECAKE AT SNAFFLE’S (B100)

Another Japanese cheesecake contender from Hokkaido, Snaffle’s signature mellow flavor comes served in a petite cake. They offer a few flavors, but for us the original one is best.

G/F, Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd. Open daily noon-10pm.

BTS Phrom Phong

17

25.

COCONUT ICE CREAM AT BAAGADIN (B180)

Chef Chandler Schultz took inspiration from the coconut ice cream served as part of Sukhumvit Soi 38’s defunct street-food scene. His take on itim kai kaeng (ice cream with egg yolk) is far from simple, though. The adorable dish features toasted coconut ice cream with ginkgo nuts and rich egg yolk sauce, all balanced out by sour mango curd.

Sukhumvit Soi 33, 02-662-3813. Open Wed-Sun 6-11pm; Mon 6-11pm. MRT Sukhumvit

26.

MANGO YOGURT PANNA COTTA AT SEED (B250)

Chef Pakapat Sakyaso's newest sweet creation sees a scoop of Greek yogurt sorbet sitting atop white chocolate panna cotta, with fresh mango, butter cookie crumbles, mango mint granite and crispy mung beans. Our tip? Scoop a bit of everything and let the feel-good freshness burst inside your mouth. Note: This dessert will be available from Feb 19.

104 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 099-283-6363. Open Tue-Sun 6pm-midnight. BTS Phrom Phong

27.

KALINGO CHOCOLATE TART AT VOGUE LOUNGE (B210)

Pure Grand Kalingo cocoa is the kind of rich, dark, intense chocolate dreams are made of. Thanks to the skills of executive chef Vincent Thierry, the man who led Hong Kong’s Caprice restaurant to three Michelin stars, this chi-chi cocktail lounge turns it into one hell of a chocolate tart.

6/F, Mahanakhon Cube, Silom, Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Rd., 02-001-0697. BTS Chong Nonsi

28.

ISPAHAN WAFFLE AT AMATISSIMO CAFFE (B280)

Inspired by Pierre Herme's signature flavor creation, this month's special dessert combines the canele-like waffles with raspberry curd, lychee jelly, rose-water mascarpone and raspberry crisps.

7/F, Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 098-289-8723. Open daily 10am-9pm. BTS Phrom Phong

29.

POISONED APPLE AT MOCKING TALES (B220)

Our favorite at this new ice-cream-specializing bar-slash-dessert cafe is the fashionably presented baked apple served with apple sorbet, homemade caramel and crumble.

G/F, Maze Thonglor, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 02-386-6992. Open daily 9am-10pm

30.

KALAMANSI SACHER TORTE AT PATISSERIE ROSIE (B230)

Atop a layer of sacher sponge, the tartness of calamansi perfectly complements the rich Valrhona calibre chocolate mousse.

113/2 Thonglor Soi 10, 092-542-9900. Open Tue-Sun noon-9:30pm

31.

GOAT CHEESE CAKE AT SEVEN SPOONS (B280)

Under the Heaven on Cheese's goat cheese cake lies a flavorful crust incorporating rye, grains and dried fruits. The aromatic Thai-tea poached pear and sauce only make it even better.

22-24 Chakkaphatdi Phong Rd., 02-629-9214. Open Mon-Sat 11am-3pm; Tue-Sun 6-11:30pm

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

Cover_Story_627_Feb12_16_NEW.indd 8

2/8/16 4:52 PM

TODAY-29 FEBRUARY 2559 CELEBRATE CHINESE NEW YEAR WITH THE MAGIC OF THE WORLD’S FIRST SPECTACULAR PERFORMANCE OF THE HEAVENLY FLYING DRAGON AT THE EM DISTRICT

P.7 Em District_Feb12_627.indd 2

2/8/16 5:26 PM

P.9 Pandora_Feb12_627.indd 2

2/5/16 6:11 PM

escapes ESCAPE ROUTES

By Monruedee Jansuttipan and Lily Kittisrikangwan

SAMUI

Well, Well, Well How’s that New Year’s “get fit” resolution coming along? Here’s an opportunity to kickstart your health drive. Samui’s Moroccan-inspired Absolute Sanctuary Boutique Resort (www.absolutesanctuary.com), the flagship of the ever-growing Absolute Yoga & Pilates empire, has expanded its wellness programs. That means that you will be guaranteed an active stay, with the likes of hot yoga, pilates reformer and core suspension classes, followed by colonic hydrotherapy sessions and rejuvenating spa treatments. We recommend one of the complete wellness packages (starting from around B40,000 for a 3-day4-night package), which include Signature Detox, Yoga Holiday, Spa Holiday, Anti-Stress and Burnout programs. They’re offering special room rates for Mar 1-Apr 30 from B3,888 with a complimentary 60-minute rejuvenation massage.

AYUTTHAYA

Heritage Cafe Cutesy cafes have made it to Ayutthaya. Busaba Craft & Design Cafe is run by a local team who also create design products from Thai loincloth (pah kao mah), with kiosks at Bangkok’s Emporium, Siam Paragon and various Central branches. Situated right opposite the revered Wat Mahathat, the decor is clean, contemporary and clearly Thai, partly inspired by Chankasem Palace, while the menu also pays its respects to the ancient capital. That means lots of roti saimai (Thai candy floss crepe) and khao mao (pounded unripe rice) garnishes that appear in both drinks and cakes. Highlight items include the passion fruit cheesecake, Cotton Coconut drink, Frosty Blue Pea lemonade made from hand-picked butterfly pea leaves and Frosty Chocolate, topped with Ayutthaya’s famous sai mai (sugar spun). Busaba’s “trendy Thai” design products are also available at the cafe.

CHIANG MAI

The High Life The 9th Thailand Balloon Festival (www.thailandballoonfestival.com) takes place Mar 4-5, 6am-10pm, at Payap University, just a 10-minute drive from Chiang Mai city center.

Though members of the public can’t go up in the balloons, down on the ground there will be live music, workshops and a flea market full of delicious local food. One such wokshop will teach you how to paint the mask of khon (Thai royal court dance) through guidance from Chiang Mai’s Intanu khon Thai group (www.fb.com/intanukhon). There will also be a light and sound show featuring Lanna-meets-classical music from the Nimman Street Orchestra, conducted by Bringkop Vora-urai. In the name of charity, you can buy golf balls (B1,000 for 3 or B500 for 1) which balloonists will drop from the air: if your ball lands closest to the pin, you will win B30,000. Entrance is B200. For updates, see www.fb.com/thailandballoonfestival.

JAPAN

Bunk with Me Bunka Hostel

The Japanese capital is enjoying a design-led hostel boom. One that’s caught our eye is Bunka Hostel Tokyo (bunkahostel.jp), a new dorm situated in Asakusa, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Tokyo. A nondescript, ‘80s office building has been beautifully transformed in a clean, minimalist style in collaboration with Hiroko Takahashi, a Japanese designer who made her name through modern-design kimonos and expertise in local crafts. The seven-story hostels offer mixed dorms, as well as family rooms and female-only dorms. The lobby is home to an izakaya-style cafe serving bento boxes and sake. Rates start at an appealing JPY3,000 (B888) per person for mixed dorm and JPY16,800 (B4,974) for family room with four people.

Download our free guide to the best new openings in Phuket, Chiang Mai, Krabi, Samui and more. bit.ly/wherehotspots2015

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

10

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

EscRoutes_627_Feb12_16_NEW.indd 10

2/8/16 4:54 PM

P.11 EmQuartier_Feb12_627.indd 2

2/5/16 7:19 PM

avenue NEW SHOPS

Fashion Finds Joining the first floor of Thonglor’s hip new community mall, The Commons, Treasures is the latest hidden-gem for vintage lovers. Run by celebrity and vintage collector Nita Tejapaibul, the store focuses mainly on elegant luxury night-wear. Nita says that every item is one of a kind, mostly sourced from the UK, France and Italy, while they also offer a tailor service to ensure the perfect fit. Expect lots of handcrafted details like sequins, embroidery and lace. And it’s not just women’s jackets and gowns. Guys will find some nice shirts and blazers too. 1/F, The Commons, Thonglor Soi 17, 084-665-5626 and 098-595-9959. IG: Treasuresofficial

BEAUTY

WORKSHOP

SPORT

Korean Cutesy

Handmade Club

Snow in Bangkok

Following the arrival of Asian cosmetics giants Matsumoto Kiyoshi and 3CE last year, here’s another reason you don’t need to go shopping in Korea anymore. Founded in 2012, Touch in SOL quickly gained the attention of Thai bloggers including Momay Paplern and Jeban.com for its lips and foundation line. Now, the brand has finally landed Bangkok with a counter at All Season Place as well as an online shopping site (www.touchinsolthailand. com) with fair price tags. Bestsellers worth trying include I’m Covering You BB Cream (a medium to high coverage level BB cream that contains whitening, anti-wrinkle and SPF 50, B850); and the latest release, Flawless Skin Top Coat (a five-in-one foundation consisting of serum, primer, BB cream, foundation and powder, B1,290. 2/F, CRC Tower, All Seasons Place Retails Center, 87-Wireless Rd., 081-456-5463. www.fb.com/TouchInSolThailand

So Dazzling started out as a blog for wedding ideas before its main writer relocated to the UK. But now, its three new partners—freelance writer Sarita Urupongsa, Hom herbal tea founder Weerapa Dumsanit and fashion stylist Pailin Mungsanti—have reestablished the brand as a monthly pop-up workshop focusing on cutesy craft items that go beyond weddings. The So Dazzling Club kicked off with its first workshop last week, which taught guests how to make a Valentine’s flora box and flower crown. The owner tells us that every workshop will focus on a specific craft skill in partnership with a different artist and at a new location each time. For the next one, they plan to hold a calligraphy course in March, but the date and location is still unconfirmed. Check their Facebook page for updates. Each class is limited to 10-20 seats, so book in advance at www.fb.com/sodazzlingclub.

Bangkok has welcomed the city’s first ski training playground, Ski 365, for you to get started before planning that trip to Niseko.

This snow-sport playground offers a genuine ski experience on a training slope imported from Netherlands that’s just the right gradient for beginners. The three Alpine Endless Revolving Slopes offer 6x11-meter running surfaces suited to adults, while the kids’ playground zone caters to children over three years old. Need lessons? There’s a Canadian ski trainer with over 40 years’ experience throughout North America, Europe, Australia and Japan.

Prices start from B1,100 per hour for a shared ski session (limited to four people) including all ski equipment. PlayZene Zone, 3/F, Zpell at Future Park Rangsit, 02-150-9045/46. Open Mon-Thu 10:30am-9:30pm, Fri 10:30am-10pm and Sat-Sun 10am-10pm. www.fb.com/ski365.zpell

12

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

AVN_Landing_627_Feb12_16_NEW.indd 12

2/8/16 4:57 PM

P.11 CPS Chaps_Feb12_627.indd 2

2/4/16 3:05 PM

avenue

Bounce Thailand

Flow House Bangkok

GYMS

Work It Bangkok's six most unique workout facilities. by BK Editorial

Surf Set

OMMO Studios

The surfing-inspired indoor workout studio from the States has arrived in Bangkok. The brainchild of Mike Hartwick, a former American hockey player and long-time surfer, the program combines techniques from surfing with other workout practices.

There are four classes on offer: Balance (yoga-inspired workout, focusing on slow movement and balance), Burn (cardio workout, focusing on fast movement), Build (muscle building using resistance bands) and Blend (a combination of all the workout programs). A drop-in class is B700, while packages start at B3,780/6 classes. There’s also a monthly unlimited pack for B9,000.

Had it with crappy gym music? This new gym on Sathorn puts the focus on good beats and builds its workout routines around them.

Ommo Studios (or Original Music Movement) pumps out sets by local DJs and even live bands through the latest Bose speakers as you sweat away at your choice of indoor cycling, boxing, yoga or Pilates. Prices go from B450/class, B4,200/10 classes, B3,900/ unlimited one-month and B21,000/unlimited six-month membership. Or sign up for the year for B38,400.

5/F, Piman 49, Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-662-4566 . Open Mon-Fri 10am-9pm; Sat-Sun 9:15am-4:15pm. BTS Phrom Phong. www. surfsetthailand.com

Bounce Thailand Trampolining is the hottest workout trend for 2016. Following the arrival of San Franciscan Rockin’ Jump in 2015 (see below), this year sees the even bigger arrival of Australia’s Bounce Thailand.

This trampoline park claims to be Asia’s biggest at a size of 5,600 sq meters on the fifth floor of The Street Ratchada. Here, you’ll find the Bounce Fit zone for exercising, Mini Bounce for kids, and the Free Jumping zone for simply having some fun on huge trampolines and practicing some pro moves. Prices start from B390 per 1 hour (B290 for kids). Minimum age allowed is three years old and the maximum weight is 120kg.

5/F, The Street Ratchada, New Ratchadapisek Rd., 02-014-2446. Open daily 10am-10pm. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre. www.bounceinc.co.th

Rockin’ Jump This San Franciscan indoor trampoline park chain has 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.

OMMO Studios

8/8 Narathiwas Soi 4, 02-286-8307. Open Mon-Sat 7am-9pm. BTS Chong Nonsi. www.ommostudios.com

Flow House Bangkok The big attraction at this urban water park is its FlowRider, a wave machine that lets you try your hand at standup surfing and bodyboarding. Entry is completely free, while use of the wave machine is charged by the hour including equipment and instruction (from B750/hour walk-in rate). Other facilities include a plunge pool, games like pool, ping pong, darts and foosball, plus an on-site cafe.

Rockin' Jump

A Square, Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02-108-5210. Open daily 10am-midnight. www.flowhousebangkok.com

Asia Parkour Bangkok’s parkour community, led by the Ghost Tower-conquering Team Farang, has never been stronger. Now, there’s a gym that harnesses the power of free-running into a movement-based workout. Asia Parkour offers a Ninja Kids course for children aged from 9-15 years old and Parkour Spirit for adults, which builds up from the basics to outdoor classes. You can also start with personal training, or private group classes, to build up your confidence before joining others. Prices start from B500/person for a 45-minute drop-in.

Surf Set

Active Parc, G/F, 496-502 Phloen Chit Rd., 084-493-2075. www. asiaparkour.com

428 Ratchadapisek-Rama 3 Rd., 02-212- 0222. www.bangkokrockinjump.com

Asia Parkour

14

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

AVN health 625_Jan29_16_NEW.indd 14

2/8/16 4:58 PM

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

P.15 Lifestyle_Feb12_627.indd 15

15

2/5/16 6:21 PM

bites & blends RESTAURANT

Light Bites In place of the defunct deli-slash-Mediterranean restaurant Moko has popped up Kumi Restaurant & Healthy Corner. Putting a strong emphasis on healthy food, the restaurant’s menu comprises clean bites that go beyond salads , like sesame tuna Arabic quinoa (B400), goat cheese vegetarian mille feuille (with roasted eggplant, bell pepper, asparagus and pesto dressing, B310), salmon tartare with avocado and tomato salsa (B420) and wraps (B230320). For something heavier, there are pasta and risotto options as well as meaty dishes including beef tartare (B590) served with homemade French fries and grilled chicken breast (B420). They also do breakfast sets (B440-490) with fresh juice, hot drinks, a choice of eggs and items like toasted avocado, cherry tomatoes, rocket salad, fruit salad and yogurt cornflakes. As for drinks, they use Maison Richard’s organic coffee beans and Ronnefeldt tea, which are served along with smoothies (B130-150) and classic cocktails (B280). 71/2 Sathorn Soi 10, 02-635-3673.

BTS Chong Nonsi

LUNCH DEAL

RESTAURANT

BAR

New Force

Grill House

Comeback Kid

Following the departure of Dario Busnelli (now launching Char at Hotel Indigo), Attico has a new chef. Sardinia-born Roberto Parentela (previously of Zanotti) adds native ingredients from his home region to the restaurant’s Tuscany-focused menu, and has also expanded with lunch service. Included in the lunch set (available Mon-Fri noon-2:30pm) is free-flow antipasti and appetizers like cold cuts, salad and pizza. The B650 two-course set includes a choice of main from options like homemade tagliatelle with Bolognese sauce, pan-seared sea bass with cherry tomatoes, saffron potatoes and taggiasche olives, and eggplant parmigiana with smoked scarmorza cheese, tomato sauce and basil pesto.

Add an extra B125 to the bill for dessert. Radisson Blu, 489 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-302-3333

Reliably affordable wine-and-dine chain Wine Connection has expanded to Groove as a steakhouse. Positioned as the group’s most upscale branch, The Grill prides itself in meat which they dry-age in the on-site cellar for at least one week. A large grill station lets you see the chef handling cuts of your choice including US Angus (starting at B1,290 for a 280g New York steak), Australian (starting at B790 for a 120-day grain-fed 280g sirloin steak), 500day grain-fed Japanese Iwate wagyu (B1,990/350g) and NZ lamb rack (B790/420g). Accompanying the steak are bearnaise, barbecue, green peppercorn or red wine sauce and side dishes (B90) including potato gratin, truffle mashed potato, fries and eggplant parmigiana. Wine starts at B100 by the glass. G/F, Groove, 999/9 Rama 1 Rd., 02-613-1036. Bts Siam

After turning off the taps right at the end of last year, Wishbeer Home Bar has already found a new, bigger and more relaxing home, just up the road from the original venue. The new space at the entrance of Sukhumvit Soi 67 serves a dual purpose as an office and warehouse for the online beer delivery website, leaving the gym-like space in the middle as a bar. With its scuffed flooring and furniture strewn about the place, the venue somehow seems even less permanent than the last one, but it also packs a lot of raw character. Like before, you can expect a large range of brews on tap and by the bottle, including Brewdog, Bavaria, Evil Twin, Chouffe and Vedett. Stay tuned for a cafe and food menu. Sukhumvit Soi 67, 02-650-2113. www.fb.com/WishbeerBar

16

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

BB_Landing_627_Feb12_16.indd 16

2/5/16 6:39 PM

blends

Romantic Rendezvous

Four perfect evenings for the ultimate Valentine’s in Bangkok Red Sky

Distil Bar

Roof Hideaway

Wine I Love You

Revolucion Cocktail

The area: Ratchaprasong

The area: Sathorn

The area: Thonglor

The area: Silom

After an afternoon of retail therapy, pull up a table at this handsome bistro to start the night. Impress your partner with a refreshing bottle of wine like Jacob’s Creek Sparkling Moscato Rose (B1,150), a bubbly whose light and refreshing berry taste is balanced with a hint of pear—the perfect before-dinner choice.

Not only does the bar have an intimate atmosphere and bags of French charm, the cocktails here are the real deal. We recommend the two of you grab a seat by the bar to chat with mixologist Kiattikoon Auengkum, who loves to craft people the perfect drink for their tastes.

Behind an unmarked door on Thonglor hides easily one of the coolest and most romantic cocktail lounges in town right now. The mysteriously luxurious red-lit narrow bar serves up a solid mix of drinks that breaks the monotony of Thonglor’s typical bars, as well as a wide range of rare-find whiskies from all around the world. Kick off the night with something sophisticated like a Chivas Regal 12 highball, served with ice in a Collins glass and topped up with soda.

Dusit Thani hotel has restyled its top floor as 22 Kitchen & Bar, giving it a Peruvian-Californian kick thanks to Pacific coastal cuisine. But it’s also a winning bar in its own right thanks to stunning views of Lumpini Park. Kick start the night with something rich and complex like a bottle of Brancott Estate Pinot Noir.

Pre-drink: Wine I Love You

G/F, Groove at CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 081-921-2016. Open daily 11am-midnight. BTS Siam/Chit Lom. Facebook: Wine I Love You

Dinner: Theo Mio

This romantic piazza-style restaurant from BBC culinary star Theo Mio is right in the heart of the shopping district and has a light, casual vibe as well as an outdoor terrace for casual after-dinner drinks.

Try the creative-twist cocktails by mixologist Settaphong Charoensiri like Wish Key Sour, which features Chivas Regal Extra and a dash of port wine.

G/F, InterContinental Bangkok, 973 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-656-0444 daily 10am-11pm. Facebook: Theo Mio - Italian Kitchen

Night-cap: Red Sky

End your romantic bar-hopping with the irresistible view at Red Sky bar. It’s not just the Bangkok cityscape here which is amazing; Centara Grand’s rooftop restaurant also boasts an incredible wine cellar as well as a stellar cocktail list. Try the Extra Crush—a delicious blend of Chivas Regal Extra, strawberry puree, Orgeat almond syrup, cherry brandy, cranberry juice and lime juice (B390).

55/F, Centara Grand at CentralWorld, 999/99 Rama 1 Rd., 02-100-6255. Open daily 5:30pm1am. BTS Siam/Chit Lom. Facebook: Red Sky at Centara Grand at CentralWorld

Brought to you by Chivas Regal Extra

BB Pernod BK627_Feb12_16.indd 17

Pre-drink: Marcel

Sathorn Soi 10, 02-635-3533. Open Tue-Sun 6pm-midnight. Facebook: Marcel

Dinner: Sorrento

One of the longest-standing Italian restaurants on Sathorn has been rejuvenated. Reborn as Sorrento Sathorn, the restaurant serves authentic dishes in a romantic setting—alongside some wonderful drinks. Do try their new craft cocktails by renowned mixologist Pongpak Sudthipongse like The Don (B320), a sweet and smoky drink mixing Chivas Regal Extra with port wine, cherry syrup, a dash of Peychaud’s bitters and smoked rosemary.

Sathorn Soi 10, 02-234-9933. Open Sun-Thu 11am-11pm and Fri-Sat 11am-midnight. Facebook: Sorrento Sathorn

Night-cap: Revolucion Cocktail

And if you want to end the night with some casual dancing, head to the neighboring Revolucion Cocktail. This Latin-American-themed bar is actually anall-in-one place for dining and drinking before turning the volume up a bit for some late-night dance-floor action. Try their creative cocktails like Cookie Sazerac (B440), a potent drink which combines Chivas Regal Extra with Martell VSOP Cognac, chocolate cookie syrup and flaming absinthe.

50 Sathorn Soi 10, 02-235-4823, Open daily 6pm2am. Facebook: Revolucion Cocktail Bangkok

Pre-drinks: Rabbit Hole

125 Sukhumvit Soi 55, 081-822-3392. Open TueSun 7pm-2am. Facebook: Rabbit Hole

Dinner: Roof Hideaway

On the rooftop floor of TO-B by Muse Thonglor clubbing institution, Roof Hideaway serves up Thai and Western fusion dishes in a chilled and charming rooftop garden. The man behind the bar here is also no joke. Try one of his signature drinks or take it easy with Chivas Regal Extra on the rocks.

3/F, TO-B by Muse Thonglor, 159/8 Thonglor Soi 10, 087-888-5599. Open Tue-Sun 5pm-1am.

Facebook: Roof Hideaway

Night-cap: Black Amber

When dinner’s over, you need some place you can chat intimately. At this whisky-centric gentleman’s bar, the deep red velvet sofas are just the place to get a little closer over stiff drinks like The Glenlivet, Jameson and Chivas Regal 12. Or check out the Chivas Regal flight (B540), consisting of Chivas Regal 12 years, Chivas Regal Extra and Chivas Regal 18 years. You can also complement your drinks with a choice of Cuban cigars starting from B375 a piece.

160/17 Thonglor Soi 6, 092-276-2772. Open daily 6pm-1am. Facebook: Black Amber Thonglor Social Club

Pre-drinks: 22 Kitchen and Bar

22/F, Dusit Thani, 946 Rama 4 Rd., 02-2009000#2345. daily 4pm-midnight. Facebook: 22 Kitchen & Bar

Dinner: Namsaah Bottling Trust

The Asian comfort food restaurant, run by Chef Ian Kittichai, is set in a charming pink-painted 100-year-old house that’s as romantic and traditional as it is brave and contemporary. Try the famous pad Thai with duck foie gras or salmon tartare wonton tacos and compliment the spicy flavors with wine like the silky Jacob’s Creek Lamoon.

401 Silom Soi 7. 02-636-6622. Open daily 5pm2am. Last order midnight. BTS Chong Nonsi.

Facebook: Namsaah Bottling Trust

Night-cap: Distil Bar, Tower Club lebua

This sky-high bar with irresistible views is more than a perfect place to take your loved one on a special occasion. The cocktails by mixologist and Assistant F&B manager Rawiwan Boonmaprasit are also out of this world, like the Heavens Edge—a fluffy, sweet and spicy mix of Chivas Regal 18 years old with spiced rum, pineapple, sweet vermouth, maple syrup and topped with the bar’s secret foam.

64/F, State Tower, 1055 Silom Rd., 02-624-9999.

Open daily 6pm-1am. Facebook: Distil Bar, Tower Club lebua BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

17

2/8/2559 BE 7:35 PM

blends BAR HOPPING

Rum Punch Sathorn and Silom dominate Bangkok’s cocktail scene right now. And five of the neighborhoods’ leading bartenders are currently vying to win Bacardi’s Legacy Cocktail Competition 2016 with a new white rum-based cocktail with the potential to become classic. Here’s what we think of their creations. By Vasachol Quadri

The Expat by Sebastian De La Cruz at UNCLE

Vogue Lounge

Swedish bartender Sebastian De La Cruz landed in Bangkok in 2014, fell under the wing of Sapparot Group (Lady Brett, UNCLE, Rocket) and has been manning the bar at UNCLE ever since. Sebastian’s entry to the competition, The Expat, already has a strong following down on Sathorn Soi 12, and takes inspiration from his first time working outside of Sweden. The daiquiri-inspired drink mixes white rum with Japanese umeshu, aromatic sweet vermouth, tamarind syrup, lemon juice and sea salt flakes. Refreshing and crisp.

2/F, Lady Brett, 149 Sathorn Soi 12, 02-635-0406. Open Tue-Sun 6pm-1am

The Haole by Mitchell Kai Lum at Vertigo Too Vertigo Too

Bamboo Bar

Banyan Tree’s Vertigo recently welcomed a tapasand-cocktails sister bar called Vertigo Too. The atmosphere here is more proper restaurant than cocktail bar, but the full bar setup straight away suggests they know how to pour a drink, too.

Hawaii-native Mitchel kai Lum mans the bar, jumping into the competition with, The Haole—white rum, white vermouth, lemon juice and pineapple syrup topped with ginger ale. It’s the kind of refreshing, tropical long drink that has you longing for the beach.

60/F, Banyan Tree, 100 Sathorn Rd., 02-679-1200. Open daily 5pm-1am

The Little Wings by Weerawan Yodkamol at Vesper Vesper

UNCLE

RUNNER UP!

Vesper never dips its cocktail standard. After Milk Pailin made her mark in the Diageo World Class Competition (and now mans the bar at Il Fumo), it’s the turn of Wareewan Yodkamol—the only female

bartender in Bacardi’s finalists. Her Little Wings cocktail is quite distinct thanks to Frangelico hazelnut liqueur to strengthen the nuttiness of Bacardi white rum, along with honey, port wine, lemon juice and egg white for that foamy top.

10/15 Convent Rd., 02-235-2777, Open Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm; Sun-Thu 5pm-midnight; Fri-Sat 5pm-1am. BTS Sala Daeng

Quintus by Hideyuki Saito at Vogue Lounge

BK PICK!

The only spirit-forward drink among the five finalists comes from Japanese mixologist Hideyuki Saito.

Quintus is a Latin word for five, which Hideyuki has adopted for this aperitif due to the five characteristics of the punch. He mixes white rum with dry fino sherry, La Quintinye vermouth and Benedictine D.O.M served with a pickled onion. It’s elegant, sweet and has a spicy kick that you wouldn’t guess comes from a rum-based cocktail. It might not hit Bacardi’s criteria for a future classic, but the booze-heavy, perfectly balanced drink certainly gets our vote.

6/F, Mahanakhon Cube, Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Rd., 02-001-0697. BTS Chong Nonsi

The Serenity by Sarawut Pinpech at Bamboo Bar The second daiquiri-inspired drink in this competition comes from Sarawut Pinpech of the Mandarin Oriental’s elegant bar. The top-four finisher of Diageo World Class Bangkok last year has created a Thai-style daiquiri mixing white rum with triple sec, pineapple syrup and lime juice shaken with crushed basil leaves and garnished with basil. The pineapple and basil are the stars here.

1/F, Mandarin Oriental, 48 Charoenkrung Soi 40 (Oriental Avenue), 02-659-9000

TASTE TEST The Dark Side Which dark rum is best to drink on the rocks?

SAILOR JERRY SPICED RUM (B1,130)

EL DORADO DARK RUM (B590)

MOUNT GAY (B777)

We say: The taste is sweet, with a real lack of smokiness meaning it goes down easily—a little too easily. Overly spicy and perfumy, it’s a bit of a guilty pleasure.

18

CAPTAIN MORGAN BLACK (B739)

RUNNER-UP

BK PICK

They say: Vanilla, butter oak, cinnamon and ginger on the nose, while the taste is dry and sweet with a long, crisp finish of oak and spice.

BACARDI 8 YEAR OLD RUM (B1,900)

SANGSOM (B275)

They say: Smooth and full-bodied.

We say: Less potent on the nose than others, with a flower-y touch.

The taste is sweet with a mouthfeel that hits hard and disappears all too quickly. Tastes better mixed, but lacks the character.

They say: Full-rounded with notes of flowers and honey on the nose and a taste that’s a little fruity with banana, vanilla, oak and spice notes.

We say: The lightest in color. Straight, this just tastes sweet with little depth, and has a slightly platic-y aftertaste. OK if you stick to cocktails.

They say: “The nose is particularly aromatic whilst the flavor is distinctively mellow.” masterofmalt.com We say : Our panel’s attempts to pick Sangsom from the unmarked list invariably fail—we’ll put it down to a lack of character on the nose.

The taste is rather caramelly but with a very bitter aftertaste.

They say: Fresh and perfumed with notes of oak and peel. The taste, too, is sweet with hints of tropical fruits and spices, plus a gentle finish.

We say: The smell is very floral. To taste, it’s like maple syrup, a little sharp and even reminiscent of whiskey. Mixing it with sugar and lime does no favors.Pour it straight, add ice and enjoy.

RON ZACAPA 23 YEAR OLD RUM (TBA) BK PICK

They say: Dark, rich and distinctive.

We say: Part post-pubescent hangover, part old man’s pullover—the taste of this one brings up mixed memories in our tasting panel. None of them good. The smell hits you almost like bad office coffee. The taste is sweet like maple syrup but with a burnt aftertaste.

They say: A light mahogany color, this rum is a complex mix between honey, butterscotch, spiced oak and raisin.

We say: The darkest color of the lot, with a woody aroma and full-bodied taste that packs a punch. It really reminds some of our panel of a gentle, wellaged Speyside whiskey.

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

BB_Blends_627_Feb12_15_NEW.indd 18

2/8/16 5:39 PM

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

P.19 Mode_Feb12_627.indd 19

19

2/5/16 6:23 PM

bites

OPEN DOOR

Barrio Bonito Koh Chang’s favorite Mexican joint lands in Bangkok.

The buzz: Established about eight years ago on Koh Chang, Barrio Bonito quickly earned itself Tripadvisor's no. 1 spot on the island.

Now its Mexican-French owners, Mariana Villalobos Torres and Julien Chardonnet, have brought it to The Commons community mall on Thonglor.

The decor: The Commons' "market zone" functions a bit like a food court, but Barrio Bonito does have a bar counter and a handful of tables of its own. Dominated by a painting of La Cavalera Catrina (the iconic Day of the Dead female figure with a skeleton mask), the space is all bare bricks, corrugated steel and cement, with a sprinkling of skulls and pictures of the Mexican Revolution for added color.

20

The food: Torres, a self-taught chef from Mexico City, controls the kitchen, turning out authentic native dishes including guacamole (B220) served in crispy corn tortilla cones and quesadillas (B200). The short menu rotates daily, but you can usually expect burritos, tacos and queso (cheese fondue) with different fillings and toppings like homemade chorizo, slow-cooked pulled pork, beef and lamb.

The drink: Their bar stocks a list of tequilas and also rolls out creative margaritas, whether green and spicy (with cucumber and jalapeno pepper, B260) or fruity (with pomelo or mango, passion and strawberry, B250). Their takes on the Michelada (spicy beer cocktail, B140) include funky varieties like the Mangoneada

that features mango, chipotle, lime and a chili-mango lollipop (B180), and the Tamarindo Michelada, made with habanero chili sauce and tamarind (B180).

Why you should care: Not only are the authentic Mexican dishes delicious, but there’s also a friendly, communal vibe which makes this one well worth repeat visits. Natcha Sanguankiattichai M/F, The Commons, Thonglor Soi 17, 092-331-5203. www.fb.com/ BarrioBonitoBKK

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

BB_NNOD_627_Feb12_16_NEW.indd 20

2/8/16 5:01 PM

Ease

TABLE TALK

TWG Tea M/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-9527 Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Siam Xiao Chi

Boteya

NEW AND NOTED

Easy Does It Ari's new cafe and co-working space, Ease (40/1 Phahon Yothin Soi 7 [Ari], 092-828-5424), goes for a suitably laid-back vibe. Set in a standalone house tucked off the main soi, the downstairs cafe does easy bites like all-day breakfast (from B180), Japanese salad (featuring seaweed and salmon roe, B120) and S’mores toast (B60), as well as coffee (from B50 for espresso up to B95 for the fancier "snowman" affogato or Nutella espresso). Prices for the upstairs co-working space begin at B120/2 hours including high-speed Wi-Fi and the use of a printer/scanner. There are also bean bags where you can curl up with the local cool cat, Mang-mee, who was there long before the cafe opened.

Street Grub Xiao Chi (M/F, The Commons, Thonglor Soi 17, 02-185-2497), the new spin-off from Taiwanese guo bao specialist Bao & Buns, introduces Bangkok to yet more varieties of Chinese street food, this time mostly from the mainland. The petite

counter serves up classic fare like dan dan egg noodles (B140) and grilled pork (B180) from Szechuan, and Shanghai-style grilled beef (B200). Of course, you can still expect a variety of bao buns, including the traditional braised pork belly bao (B130) and the delicious Xi-an burger (pan-fried bao with chopped lamb shoulder, B180), which is derived from Xi’an’s Muslim quarter’s version of roujiamo (aka Chinese hamburger).

Japanese Hub New CentralWorld arrival Boteya (3/F, CentralWorld, 999/9 Rama 1 Rd. 085-565-2514.) is a sub-brand of Osaka's big Botejyu group that serves up regional specialties from all across Japan. Chefs whip up the likes of Osaka’s famous yakisoba (B270-290) and okosoba (yakisoba on okonomiyaki batter, B240-320), Hokkaido’s donabe karubi pork (rice bowl with grilled pork, B280) and Kyoto’s oyakodon (rice bowl with chicken and egg, B220). Natcha Sanguankiattichai and Joseph Lam

Bordered by monogrammed glass, TWG Tea’s trademark look of European elegance is completed by a dark marble floor, wood paneling trimmed with gold and shelves lined with their signature yellow tins. Among over 500 selections of tea offerings, the Singaporean tea boutique also doubles as an all-day diner at its Paragon, Emporium and EmQuartier branches. The menu consists the likes of Eggs Benedict (B280), Rocketeer Salad (B360) and Pan-seared Seabass (B420)—all incorporating the use of TWG Tea. As for sweets, you can also find tea influences in the macarons (B55) and ice cream (B90/scoop). Served by the pot, more signature tea varieties are priced at B250.

Don’t miss the Valentine’s special My Lover Tea set (B990 for two) which features 1837 Black Tea and Blackcurrant, Bain de Roses and Mon Amour macarons, pan-seared Hokkaido scallops with heirloom tomato salsa, red velvet cake topped with Love Me tea-infused cream cheese, Sakura! Sakura! tea sorbet and Lover’s Tea mocktails.

Exclusive privileges for Citi credit cardmembers.

Get complimentary TWG Tea Cake Selection valued 190 Baht when spend 1,000 Baht or more /sales slip (Limit 1 dish /card /table /day /sales slip) (Today – 30 Jun 16)

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

Simply click “Thailand” and then “Gift voucher”

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

BB_NNOD_627_Feb12_16_NEW.indd 21

21

2/8/16 5:02 PM

bites & blends market + Events

net for 3 courses and B5,950 net for 5 courses.

Pullman Bangkok King Power, 8/2 Rangnam Rd., 02-680-9999

Deals Vertigo

CHEF VIVEK SINGH’S VISIT Indian chef Vivek Singh from Cinnamon Club, London, visits Vertigo Too this Feb 12-14. The five-course menu will set you back B4,500 (B6,700 with wine pairing), while the six-course menu is set at B4,900 (B7,400 with wine pairing).

Banyan Tree, 21/100 Sathorn Rd., 02-6791200

Loong Foong

Advertise your business with us ­

ALASKAN KING CRAB FEAST Loong Foong presents dishes like Chinese-style Alaskan king crab cream soup, deep-fried Alaskan king crab with passion fruit sauce, Alaskan king crab X.O. sauce, Alaskan king crab salad Shanghai style, fried Alaskan king crab with black noodles from B550. Through Apr 30 Swissotel Le Concorde, 204 Ratchadapisek Rd.

starting from B6,000 Email sales@asia-city.co.th or call 026249601

LOBSTER LOVERS K-Village

K VILLAGE FARMERS’ MARKET The K Village weekend market gives you access to meet the producers and buy your food from them. Feb 13-14, 10am-6pm.

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

BEER & BBQ, NOMAD RELEASE PARTY

Every Mon through Feb 29, The Square adds a lobster menu including baked lobster with herbs and white wine, and charcoal-grilled lobster with five sauces to its buffer dinner (B1,099).

Credit card/Debit card payment accepted

Novotel Bangkok Ploenchit, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-305-6000. BTS Phloen Chit

New Venues

The Accidental Butcher hosts the launch of new beers from Australia’s Nomad brewery on Feb 13.

Amsa Cafe & Grill

53 Soi Ekkamai 10, 02-713-2801

AMSA CAFE & GRILL Xiao Chi

22 Silom Rd., 02-632-7186. BTS Sala Daeng

XIAO CHI

Cho Why

Silom’s new lunch-friendly cafe specializes in rotisserie chicken.

This spin-off from Bao & Buns serves up yet more varieties of Chinese-style street food.

M/F, The Commons, Thonglor Soi 17, 02-1852497

VERMOUTH SESSION #2 Cho Why hosts an afternoon “gastro-social” gathering on Feb 14, 1pm-8am, featuring Spanish vermouth, sangría and Mediterranean gin and tonics alongside home-made tapas by El Chiringuito and seafood paella by Broken Eggs.

Beam

BEAM

Sushi Masato

17 Soi Nana, Charoenkrung Rd. MRT Hua Lamphong

Thonglor’s nightlife scene welcomes its first club worth getting excited about in years.

1/F, 72 Courtyard, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor)

SUSHI MASATO New York’s sushi master has moved to Bangkok and opened the most exciting new Japanese restaurant in town.

3/22 Sawasdee Soi 1, 02-040-0015

Wine Pub

CHEF GILLES REINHARDT This Mar 9-12, Wine Pub welcomes back French guest chef Gilles Reinhardt of Paul Bocuse’s L’Auberge du Pont de Collonges. He’ll serve the restaurant’s classic dishes at B3,750

THE EASIEST WAY TO BOOK YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS 22

Find out more at www.chope.co/toptables

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

BB_Market+Chope_627_Feb12_16.indd 22

2/5/16 6:53 PM

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

P.23 Hotel Muse_Feb12_627.indd 23

23

2/5/16 6:56 PM

bites FOOD REVIEWS

Seed HHHH Western. 104 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 099-283-6363.

Open Tue-Sun 6pm-midnight. BBBB H F

Dining powerhouse Water Library, which now has some 14 F&B ventures scattered across the city serving everything from fine dining to dim sum, made one of its more leftfield steps when it opened this rusticated attempt at down-to-earth contemporary dining. From a space where earthy, harvest-season references get turned up to eleven—hemp rope coiled around the ceiling, faux wooden rafters, olde worlde gardening implements—Seed serves a menu which claims to use “hand picked” ingredients from “sustainable local farmers and sustainable suppliers.”

The inclusion of such decidedly un-local and contentious offerings as foie gras and Chilean sea bass kind of undermines this, but get past the urban-rustic posturing and you’ll find in Seed an efficient, high-end bistro serving competent and, for the most part, well-considered dishes. The organic

Hida Grill HHHH

Japanese. G/F, Charn Issara Tower II, Phetchaburi Rd., 02-718-1922-4. Open daily Mon-Fri 11am-2pm, 5-10pm; Sat-Sun 11am-10pm. BB-BBBB ing.

After the runaway mall success of Honmono, its owner, the Iron Chef mainstay Boontham Pakpot, followed it up with what claims to be the first restaurant in Bangkok to serve Hida, a prized brand of beef from Japan’s Gifu Prefecture. The two-story modern Japanese-inspired loft is set up like a typical yakiniku (self-service grill) restaurant, with charcoal stoves at the center of every table. The casual interior features lots of wood, including a thatched roof over the downstairs sushi bar.

Boontham says his star attraction rivals the marbled goodness of Kobe and Matsusaka—and so do the price tags: B1,500/100g for tenderloin, B1,250 for striploin and B900 for ribeye. We were 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.

lamb tartare (B390) is Seed on its more elaborate end of the scale, with a strip of coarsely diced lamb sitting beside a lime green swoosh of minty herb mayonnaise.

Behind the eye-popping presentation is a delightful balance of flavors and freshness that makes it one of the restaurant’s high points. More routine mains like fish and chips (B520), burgers (B590) and barbecue ribs (B680) are well-prepared and don’t skimp on the portions. The ribs, for one, are the hearty, no-nonsense pile of bones you’d hope for, each one covered in an ample amount of succulent pig flesh and a delicious, sticky marinade. But like the decor, much of the food at Seed feels like it’s playing by numbers. The heirloom carrot salad (B320) sprinkled with a few crumbs of local goat cheese, for example, doesn’t have the all-important spark that made Opposite’s salads and vegetables good enough to tell your friends about.

Likewise, the sea crab pasta to share (B1,390) lacks the moreish appeal we were hoping for from such a vast mountain of spaghetti. It’s clear the team here know all about running a tight restaurant. The service is charming, the cocktails good, and someone involved has the connections to offer lovely wine at pinch-yourself prices (the B895 Napa Valley sauvignon blanc is a delicious steal), but the palpable absence of any single-minded passion means Seed just never feels all that special.

impressed by the beautiful presentation of the Hida tenderloin, but a little disappointed with the super-thin slices which more befit a shabu restaurant.

However, we can’t argue with the meltin-the-mouth texture of this A5-grade beef, which goes down a treat with the sweet and flavorful yakiniku sauce (they even have Thai jaew, too). Steak lovers on a budget can pick from more walletfriendly options like Kamui beef from Hokkaido (B800/150g) and Australian tenderloin (B550/100g). The menu also branches out beyond the grill to all sorts of Japanese favorites, including cheap set menus (starting at B150) and the chef’s specialty sushi. The anago sushi (sea eel, B160) comes coated in a bland, sticky sauce, but the aji tataki (Japanese horse mackerel salad, B200), with its tangy ponzu sauce, and the mixed sashimi on rice (B800) both burst with freshness. We especially like that the latter includes chutoro (medium fatty tuna). Some of the side dishes also incorporate the namesake beef, such as the amazingly well-balanced and aromatic Hida foie gras roll (B550).

More than a yakiniku restaurant, Hida Grill succeeds as a broader Japanese eatery that spotlights tasty Hida beef and quality mid-range sushi. Despite the slightly high prices, it’s no surprise that the place is packed out night after night.

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

Get the freshest dining news on BK bites & blends: www.bkmagazine.com/newsletters 24

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2015

BB_Food_Reviews_627_Feb12_16_new.indd 24

2/8/16 6:48 PM

Leandro Godoi

now

TUE Short Shorts FRI Head Space Calling all hipsters: indie music tastemaker Fungjai brings back its annual Hed Sod Concert this Feb 13, where bands including Paradise Bangkok Molam International Band, Gym and Swim, Slur, Aire, Morning Surfers and Soundlanding perform live in the intimate atmosphere of the Voice Space Hub of New Gens (Viphavadi-Rangsit Rd.). Tickets B1,000 from every 7-Eleven convenience store or at the door.

The laid-back social cinema event that's been held in over 300 cities worldwide, Future Shorts Pop Up Cinema, returns to Bangkok for its second installment this Feb 14, promising a night dedicated to international short films, live music and art, all under a special Valentine's Day theme. The location's still very much a secret (all we know is it’s somewhere in Phrom Phong), and ticket holders will only be informed one day before the event. B250-350 from bit.ly/1QgIO03

FRI Bright Ideas Creativity, imagination and new ideas merge at Bangkok Edge this Feb 13-14 in a weekend that combines talks, workshops, live music and art. Spread across Museum Siam, Chakrabongse Villas and Rijini School, this new alternative to Ted X will feature more than 40 guest speakers ranging from starchitect Duangrit Bunnag to the 2015 winner of the SEA Write award, Veeraporn Nitiprapha, in an event that’s bound to get you thinking outside the box. Oh, and it’s all free. See page 28 for more details.

THU Turning Japanese Seek out all things Japan-related at the Japan Expo 2016 this Feb 12-14, which sees the fifth floor of Siam Paragon split into 11 zones offering travel packages and tours, comic books, authentic Japanese food, cosplay competitions and details of education and job opportunities in the land of the rising sun. Better yet, visitors can catch live performances from popular J-pop bands likes Boys and Men, SuG and Defspiral.

SAT Gift of Blood Things get a little spooky this Feb 12-Mar 6 when Hugo Chakrabongse, Myra Molloy and Joe Dixon take over the K-Bank Siam Pic-Ganesha Theater (Siam Square One, Rama 1 Rd. , 02-257-2899. BTS Siam) for Dracula – Blood is Life, an adaptation of the renowned gothic horror tale following the vampire’s search for new blood in England. Tickets are B1,200-3,800 from Thaiticketmajor.

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

BK Now_627_Feb12_16_2_NEW.indd 25

25

2/8/16 5:09 PM

now CONCERTS

NIGHTLIFE

Road to Fullmoon Party

DADDY K

HOLOTONE BANGKOK SHOWCASE

The Belgian DJ and producer spins his mix of hip-hop, R&B, funk, soul, ragga, crunk and electro house, with support from DJs Master D and SG. Feb 12, 9pm. Ku Bar (Ku De Ta), 39/F, Sathorn Square, 98 Sathorn Rd., 02-108-2000. Free. BTS Chong Nonsi.

The Berlin-based music label launches its new four-track EP. The night also features live performances from Korean techno artists Eexxppoann, Koichi Shimizu and Nolens.Volens.

Feb 13, 8pm. Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. B350. BTS Thong Lo.

DRUM & BASS SESSION

ROAD TO FULLMOON PARTY

Join DJs Bpolar and D-Goose for a night dedicated to drum & bass, ranging from soulful, jazzy and funky to jump up, ragga and techstep. Feb 12, 9pm. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833. Free. BTS Surasak.

The official pre-party for Zaap's upcoming full moon party features the Dutch DJ trio best known for their trap and dubstep hits "Till it Hurts" and "Shot Gun." They'll be joined

by DJ Tujamo, currently no. 95 in DJ Mag's Top 100 DJs list. Dress code is neon. Feb 18, 9pm. Ztudio Live Hall, RCA, Chalerm Phrakiat Rama 9, 093-939-9893. B800-1,000.

INHALE EXHALE

The underground music venue hosts a night of house and techno from DJs Kimball Collins, Mr. Sour and Ellie Khodayar. Feb 13, 10pm. Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-2613007, 02-261-4446. B350 (includes one drink). MRT Sukhumvit.

Inhale Exhale

Soi 23, 02-261-3007, 02-261-4446.

B250 (includes one drink). MRT Sukhumvit.

BLAST!

Plenty of tech house and techno from DJs Sunju Hargun, Mendy Indigo and Messie Joe with special guests from Spain, DJs Nukier and Adiero. Feb 19, 10pm. Live RCA Bangkok, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 086860-0808. B350.

Diana Krall

HED SOD 3

The team from the online music zine Fungjai is back for the third installment of the popular concert that brings together bands from different genres and record labels, this time featuring Aire, Gym and Swim, Soundlanding, Morningsurfers, Paradise Bangkok and Slur. Feb 13, 4pm. Voice Space, BBD Building, 197 Viphavadi Rangsit, 02-261-3883. B700-1,000.

ROCK VILLAGE

Some of the country's biggest rock bands, including Big Ass, Labanoon, Klear and Num Kala come together for a special performance featuring never-performed songs. Feb 13, 6pm. Muang Thai GMM Live House, 8/F, CentralWorld, 999/1 Rama 1 Rd. B700. BTS Chit Lom. LOVE CUBE

KONTRABAND

DJs Delorean & Azek, Will, Sir Walt and Stuart Nombluez spin a mix of hip-hop, bass, dubstep, dub techno, UK funky, footwork, ballroom and drum 'n' bass. Feb 20, 9pm. Dark Bar, 2/F, Ekamai Mall, Ekkamai Soi 10, 02-381-9896, 090-528-4646.

B200 (includes one drink).

DARK & DIRTY

A night of underground techno from DJs Boris Rubin and special guest from South Korea, Shubostar. Feb 18, 10pm. Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit

A charity concert to raise funds for the Akaliko female meditation center, with live performances from Potato, Da Endorphin and Klear. Feb 14, 6pm.

Bangkok Convention Center, Centara Grand at CentralWorld Hotel, 999/99 Rama 1 Rd., 02-100-1234. B1,500-5,000.

DIANA KRALL

The five-time Grammy Award-winning jazz artist performs tracks from her latest studio album, Wallflower, comprising covers of popular pop and rock hit songs from the '60s through to today, including those by Bob Dylan, Elton John and The Eagles. Feb 19, 8pm. Royal Paragon Hall, 5/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-8023. B1,500-5,000 from Thaiticketmajor. BTS Siam.

UPCOMING

March concerts

STAGE PERFORMANCES

Take That

Death Cab for Cutie

TAKE THAT

March 3, 8pm

Nowhere End #14

classical PRANGCHAROEN AND MAHLER

The Thai Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Alfonso Scaran, performs Mahler's Symphony No. 9 in D Major and Narong Prancharoen's Flute Concerto alongside special guest flutist Massimo Mercelli. Feb 12, 7pm; Feb 13, 4pm. Prince Mahidol Hall, Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd. B100-500.

BSO CLASSICAL CONCERT NO. 1

The Bangkok Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Rik Ghesquiere and featuring guest violinist Siripong Tiptan and trumpeter Benny Wiame, perform Mozart's Divertimento in D major KV 136 and Violin Concerto No.3 in G major KV 216, and Hayd's Trumpet Concerto in Es and Symphony No.103 in G major "Military". Feb 18, 8pm. Thailand Cultural Centre,

26

Bumblefoot

Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456.

B300-800. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

Ginkz and John Will Sail. Feb 12, 8pm. Whiteline, Silom Soi 8, 087061-1117. B400. BTS Chong Nonsi.

HAROLD IN ITALY

EVERYBODY HURTS

Enjoy romantic symphonies including Berlioz's Harold in Italy, Op. 16 and Rachmaninoff's Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op. 27 from the Thai Philharmonic Orchestra and special guest American violist Jennifer Stumm. Feb 19, 7pm; Feb 20, 4pm.

Prince Mahidol Hall, Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd. B300500.

A charity concert to aid those facing hardship due to unforeseen circumstances, featuring Yellow Fang, Fwends, The Ginkz, The Lowdowns, Attention Please, and many more Bangkok-based artists. Feb 14, 12pm. Rockademy, A-Square (next to Flow House, opposite K-Village), Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02-261-3833.

B300.

gigs

A night of live indie alternative rock and Americana folk rock music from Abstraction XL, Matthew Fischer & The Fishes and Spring Fall Sea. Feb 21, 3pm. 1979 Vinyls and Unknown Pleasures, 4/F, Black Amber, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor).

B150.

BUMBLEFOOT

The guitarist for Axl Rose's long-awaited 2008 album Chinese Democracy brings his guitar skills to Bangkok for a live performance alongside local acts Degaruda, The

NOWHERE END #14

The English pop group promote their seventh studio album, III , with songs like "Greatest Day," "Love Love" and "Patience" while also bringing fan-favorites like "Back for Good," "Rule the World" and "Never Forget" to the stage. Tickets are B2,000-5,500 from Thaiticketmajor.

Impact Arena Muang Tong Thani, 99 Popular Rd. DEATH CAB FOR CUTIE

Mar 3, 9pm The American alt-rock band known for their hits "I Will Follow You Into the Dark" and "You are a Tourist" to perform tracks like "Black Sun" and "Little Wanderer" from last year's Kintsugi, their eighth studio album. Tickets are B1,800 from Thaiticketmajor.

Moonstar Studio, Ladprao Soi 80 5 SECONDS OF SUMMER

Mar 8, 8:30pm The popular Australian pop-rock band brings songs from their latest album Sounds Good Feels Good to the stage, while also promising performances of their popular singles like "She Looks So Perfect" and "Amnesia." Tickets are B2,000-7,000.

Impact Arena Muang Tong Thani, 99 Popular Rd. 2PM March 19, 6pm K-Pop fans will not want to miss the hit Korean pop group perform live in Bangkok as the last leg of their world tour. Set under a "house party" theme, expect hits like "Hands Up," "My House" and "Go Crazy!" Tickets are B1,800-6,000 from Thaiticketmajor. Impact Arena Muang Tong Thani, 99 Popular Rd.

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

BK Now_627_Feb12_16_2_NEW.indd 26

2/8/16 5:09 PM

ART

YOU KNOW EVERYTHING, EVERYTHING KNOW YOU

Artists Jimmie James and Pichakorn Chukiew present a series of abstract paintings exploring emotions and connections that can't be tangibly described in words or images. Feb 18-Mar 27. The Jam Factory, 41/1-41/2 Charoen Nakorn Rd., 02861-0950.

2ND THAI CONTEMPORARY ART

Twenty-four Thai artists showcase their various contemporary pieces, ranging from oil paintings and woodworks to origami. Feb 18-28. River City, 23, Trok Rongnamkeang, Yotha Rd., 02-2370077-78.

A LITTLE MORE

EXODUSK

Supmanee Chaisansuk's collection of watercolor paintings captures the complicated and mysterious life that accumulates in her subconsciousness and imagination. Feb 13-Mar 19. Cassia Gallery, 20 Sukhumvit Soi 31.

Isara Singhatokaew, Maethawee Chiraphong and Pittawas Euavongkul showcase their intricate sketches exploring the way humans and man-made objects contort the nature around us. Feb 20Mar 27. Kalwit Studio & Gallery, Ruam Rudi Rd.

LOVE PRESSIONS

SEE SAW SEEN V

Lampu Kansanoh presents her series of caricature oil paintings depicting the funny, sad and heartwarming moments in her relationship with her long-term boyfriend. Feb 14-Mar 20. Ardel Gallery of Modern Art, Belle Ville, 99/45 Borommarachonnanee Rd., 02-422-2092.

Eleven prominent Thai photographers, including Pishnu Supanimit, Dow Wasiksiri, Thavorn Ko-udomvit, Somchai Songwattana, Kanok Suriyasat, Wasinburee Supanichvoraparch and Vinnarat Sansanakiet, showcase their latest works that range from portraits to street images. Feb 18Mar 24. Ardel's Third Place Gallery, 137137/1 Thonglor Soi 10, 02 714 7929.

BE GOOD

This Feb 18 sees classical music, circus arts and charity acts all come together for The Rotary Club Thailand’s Soaring Symphony night. The evening features live performances from the Bangkok Charity Orchestra, Bangkok’s first orchestra dedicated to raising funds for local charities, as well as the Mid-Air Circus Arts Academy from Phuket, who will be performing their impressive flying trapeze and aerial acts throughout the night, accompanied by a cocktail buffet. It all comes together for a good cause, too—proceeds go towards the Rotary Krungthep School in Hua Hin as well as various projects run by the Rotary Thailand club.

7.30pm. B2,500 from 02-656-1634. Grand Ballroom, Grand Hyatt Erawan

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

BK Now_627_Feb12_16_2_NEW.indd 27

27

2/8/16 5:09 PM

now HIGHLIGHT Bangkok Edge

VALENTINE'S DAY

Parties, Film Screenings and Date Nights

Valentine's Day at Cinema Winehouse

Swipe Right Night

Mardi Gras Love

JAPAN FILM FESTIVAL

SUPER HERO SPEED DATING NIGHT

Feb 11-14

Feb 14, 7pm

Have a special movie date at the annual celebration of Japanese cinema with screenings all under the theme “Shapes of Love.” Films include Sion Sono’s Love & Peace, Ryosuke Hasiguchi’s Three Stories of Love , Saiji Yakumo’s My Pretend Girlfriend and many more.

The Old Town restaurant and art gallery invites all single people out there (whatever your sexual orientation) for a night of speed dating that involves fun games, dating time and plenty of drinks. Dress code is your favorite superhero.

B120. SF World Cinema, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-635-1111. BTS Chit Lom.

VALENTINES AT CINEMA WINEHOUSE

Feb 14, 6:30pm.

A special night of romantic movies including Steve Carrell and Tiny Fey’s 2010 rom-com Date Night and the 2011 rom-com from Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone and Steve Carrel, Crazy, Stupid Love. The screenings are accompanied by a special Valentine’s dinner

by Chef Yung.

B500. Cinema Winehouse, 59/61 Samsen Rd., 096-465-6526.

SWIPE RIGHT NIGHT

Feb 13, 5pm Valentine’s Day is as good as any other day for a first Tinder date, and if you’re both into craft beer why not head to this bar where you’ll each a get free beer if you can prove you both swiped right.

Hair of the Dog, Mahatun Plaza Building, 888/26 Phloen Chit Rd. BTS Phloen Chit.

This Feb 13-14 sees the debut of Bangkok’s first "ideas festival," Bangkok Edge, which will feature more than 40 cultural, entertainment and educational activities spread across Museum Siam, Chakrabongse Villas and Rijini School over one weekend.

Taking place from noon-midnight each day, the program is packed with talks, workshops, film screenings, music performances and art exhibitions—all entirely for free.

Arguably, the event’s highlight is its “idea sharing” talks similar to TED events, at which 43 local and international experts from various fields are invited to share thoughts on various topics. Guest speakers include architect Duangrit Bunnag, graffiti artist Alex Face, novelist Veeraporn Nitiprapha, journalist Joe Cummings, non-fiction author Jim Algie, former Time Out Bangkok editor Philip Cornwel-Smith and many more big names.

For the full schedule and workshops registration, visit www.bangkokedge.com

CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

B750 includes a buffet dinner. Pre-registration is required at chompbangkok@gmail. com or 02-629-2026. Chomp, 63-65 Samsen Soi 1, 02-629-2026.

TRASHER: HEY RAO BORK WA RAO OK

Feb 13, 9pm This party unites all the heartbroken souls out there for a night of nothing but sad music. Expect music from the likes of ABNormal, Getsunova, 25 Hours, Da Endorphine and Dido.

B300. Location to be announced, visit on.fb. me/23KhQIb to stay updated.

MARDI GRAS LOVE – VALENTINE’S PRE-PARTY

Feb 13, 9pm DJS Master D & SG, Tommy Nori, Knatz and Kimball Collins spin their best tracks at this carnival-themed party filled with love-themed cocktails, masks and beads, kissing booths and prize giveaways. Dress code is purple, green and gold.

WHAT DEFINES LUXURY?

FOR THE LOVE OF WRITING

A special talk discussing future trends in communications and creativity featuring guest fashion academics including Wankwan Polachan, Sanchai Uaesilapa, Prarunrob Prueksopee,Chatree Tengha, Suthini Tanangsnakool and Dhea Khotradha. Register at bit.ly/1nOHj2S Feb 12, 7pm. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-6630-8. Free. BTS National Stadium.

Creative writers are invited for three days of writing sessions from professional writing coach Anette Pollner, who will be discussing the themes of "Love and commitment—writing is a passion," "Overcoming procrastination" and "How to start up your writing every single day." Feb 13, 1pm. Antique Cafe & Cakes, 3/7 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 090-068-4644. B1,200-2,950.

Free entry. Ku De Ta, 39/F Sathorn Square Building, 98 North Sathorn Rd. BTS Chong Nonsi.

DIGITAL MARKETING FROM A GOOGLE AND GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE

Get all the latest events and restaurant openings from the free BK Now app

28

For those interested in a more hands-on learning experience, 11 workshops are on offer over the weekend from cultural experts such as Bo.Lan’s Chef Bo Songsivasa, (BK’s resident) cartoonist Kathy Macleod, tea-maker Kenneth Rimdahl and modern designer group Siam Life, to name a few.

To round off each night, kick back with plenty of live music from the likes of Hugo, Palmy, Bangkok International Molam band and Lek Greasy Cafe, as well as outdoor screenings of independent films about Thailand’s various subcultures including Stories of Hua Lamphong and Y/Our Music.

Christian Walter, Business Development Manager at Google Germany, leads this talk discussing digital marketing from a Google perspective. Topics include: how consumption patterns differ around the world, and how to enhance your digital maketing strategy. Limited to 350 guests only. Feb 16, 7pm. Launchpad Co-Working Space, 1/F, Sethiwan Tower Silom, Silom Rd., 02266-6222. Free. BTS Surasak.

GOOGLE NEW COUNTRY HEAD BEN KING

Google Thailand's new country manager holds a special event for entrepreneurs discussing his role as leader of the Google team, his mission and goals for Google Thailand, how start-ups and SMEs can work with Google and how Google Thailand works with the Thai market. Feb 17, 7pm. Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok, 11 Sukhumvit Soi 24, 02-620-6666. B400.

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

BK Now_627_Feb12_16_2_NEW.indd 28

2/8/16 5:10 PM

SPOTLIGHT Lampu Kansanoh, Artist

SALES & FAIRS THAI-INDIAN FUN FAIR

the third annual event celebrating Indian culture, with plenty of food, entertainment, interactive games, raffles and cultural activities. Feb 13, 3pm. Chulalongkorn University, 254 Phaya Thai Rd., 02-215-0871/-3.

JAPAN EXPO IN THAILAND 2016

A massive Japanese fair featuring selling anime, comics, games, travel packages and Japanese food, alongside booths detailing some 10,000 education and job opportunities. Feb 12-14, 11am. Royal Paragon Hall, 5/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-8023. BTS Siam.

NEON FEST

The new container market promises a massive 931 booths that combine eating, drinking and shopping in one place. Special events like concerts from Tatoo Colour, Singto Namchok and Lipta, plus plenty of other surprise festivities are also lined up. Through Jul 1, 5pm. Lumphini Park, Rama 4 Rd. MRT Lumphini.

OUT OF TOWN Art Normal 2 The arty town of Ratchaburi, a couple hours outside of Bangkok, just got artier. ArtNormal (www.fb.com/ArtNormal.Ratchaburi), an art festival launched by Silapatorn award-winning artist and Ratchaburi local Wasinburee Supanichvoraparch, has returned after a four-year absence to brighten up the town’s landmarks. Launched at the end of Jan, the festival takes over public spaces, markets, shops, restaurants and hair salons. In addition, this year sees the creation of 17 special art spaces in collaboration with leading Thai architects such as Duangrit Bunnag (DBALP), Attaporn Kobkongsanti (T.R.O.P.), Nithi Sathapitanon (A49), Vipavee Kunavichayanont (Design for Disaster) and Suriya Ampansirirat (Kyai-Suriya). These will remain as permanent spaces displaying art after the festival’s conclusion. Pick up an art map at the riverside Tao Hong Tai d Kunst Art Gallery (www.fb.com/ THT.dKuns). The project will run until Jul 24.

My favorite Thai artist is… Ajarn Jugornpun Posayok. His work is the best I’ve ever seen. It always gives me the chills. If you ever get a chance to see it, get up close, you’ll feel the sentiment and calmness seep through. It’s very hard to find this quality in modern art.

My favorite art gallery in Bangkok right now is… the BACC. It’s located in the heart of the city, which means it draws in both local and foreign art lovers. Also, they rotate their exhibitions almost weekly since it’s such a large space, so there’s always something new to see. It’s probably the best gallery in Thailand at the moment.

My favorite recent art exhibition is…

Tangled in Blue by Pongsakul Chalao, which used denim fabric stitched in a unique way to create landscape canvas works. It ran last year at S Gallery.

One thing I love about the Thai art scene is… that currently we have a mix of traditional and contemporary artists—and they are both growing alongside each other, telling two narratives about the past and present state of Thailand.

It’s good to have influences from Western art, but we need to keep the unique roots of Thai art as well.

In the future, I want to see Thai artists… get more attention from international media.

Lampu Kansanoh’s latest exhibition, Love Pressions, is a series of caricature oil paintings depicting the funny, sad and heartwarming moments in her relationship with her long-term boyfriend. Exhibiting at Ardel Gallery of Modern Art (Belle Ville, 99/45 Borommarachonnanee Rd., 02-422-2092) from Feb 14-Mar 20.

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

BK Now_627_Feb12_16_2_NEW.indd 29

29

2/8/16 5:10 PM

now FILM Opening

DEADPOOL (USA)

CAROL (USA)

Action/Adventure. The eighth instalment of the X-Men series sees former Special Forces operative Wade Wilson (Ryan Reynolds) subjected to a rogue experiment that transforms him into a dangerous anti-hero with special healing powers. Feb 11

Drama/Romance. When Therese Belivet (Rooney Mara) meets the alluring Carol (Cate Blanchett), the two embark on a journey of self-discovery that forces them to reconsider their current marriages. Feb 11

LOOKTUNG SIGNATURE (THAI)

THE CHOICE (USA)

Comedy. Separate stories of love and romance from multiple generations and social groups merge through a love of look tung music. Feb 11

Drama/Romance. A medical student and a notorious ladies’ man fall in love, leading them each to adapt their lifestyles in order to make their unlikely romance last. Feb 11

SPECIAL SCREENINGS Japanese Film Festival

Start your day with the latest lifestyle news, direct to your inbox.

COMING IN 2016

daily

Love & Peace

Be the first to hear about brand new openings, exciting events and news you actually care about

The annual celebration of Japanese cinema returns this Feb 11-14 with screenings in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Surat Thani and Khon Kaen under the theme “Shapes of Love” for Valentine’s Day. Here’s a look at the Bangkok selection.

• Sent Mon-Fri before 9am • Optimized for your phone • Share straight to social media • 100% free

LOVE & PEACE (2015, SION SONO)

JINX (2013, NAOTO KUMAZAWA)

In this grownup fantasy, an unlucky-inlove, failed rock musician’s luck begins to change when he finds a turtle.

A Korean exchange student in Japan tries to set up her friend with a boy from the same university using Korean-style flirting tips.

BEYOND THE MEMORIES (2013, TEKEHIKO SHINJO)

A woman incapable of romantic love since the death of her childhood friend in a car accident meets a new co-worker with an equally tragic past.

MY PRETEND GIRLFRIEND (2014, SAIJI YAKUMO)

Rumors spread when a high schooler is asked by his friend to pretend to be the boyfriend of a student from a neighboring class.

BE SURE TO SHARE (2009, SION SONO)

A young man grieving over the impending death of his father to cancer discovers that he too has the disease.

IT ALL BEGAN WHEN I MET YOU (2013, KATSUHIDE MOTOKI)

Sign up now at bit.ly/bkdaily or email marketing@asia-city.co.th

30

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016

QP BK Daily.indd 1

BK Now_Film_627_Feb12_16_NEW.indd 30

During the Christmas festivities, six interlinked love stories take place in a Tokyo station.

POISON BERRY IN MY BRAIN (2014, YUICHI SATO)

After first meeting at a party, an introverted novelist and a handsome young man unexpectedly run into each other again.

CLOSE RANGE LOVE (2014, NAOTO KAUMAZAWA)

A high-school student forced to attend special after-school tutoring sessions to improve her English begins to form feelings for her new tutor.

THREE STORIES OF LOVE (2015, RYOSUKE HASHIGUCHI)

Follows three separate love stories of a housewife struggling with an indifferent husband, a gay lawyer lusting after a childhood friend, and a lonesome widower on the journey of learning to love again.

For the full schedule, visit bit.ly/1RUVvDF. B120. SF World Cinema, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd.

1/15/2559 BE 5:54 PM

2/8/16 5:12 PM

marketplace PROPERTY

For Sale

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

Advertise here from only B5,000!

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

Credit card/Debit card payment accepted

We can tell your story.

Social Media & Content Provision

Apps & Websites

Guides & Magazines

Now Hiring • ART DIRECTOR

BAAN MAI KHAO

GUIDE TO PHUKET

• PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Asia City Media Group’s custom solutions can win you a bigger audience and deeper engagement.

• WRITER (THAI) • WRITER (ENGLISH)

Our clients include

• MARKETING MANAGER Call us today at 02-624-9654 Email advertising@asia-city.co.th www.asia-city.com

Find out more at bkmagazine.com/jobs 1/4S.indd 1

Marketplace_627_Feb12_16_NEW.indd 31

11/4/2558 BE 5:24 PM

Job Ads_Art Di-Prod Assis QP.indd 1

BK Magazine Friday, February 12, 2016 31 2/8/2559 BE 3:36 PM

2/8/16 5:37 PM