it's free! Top Tables 2016 guide inside
BK MAGAZINE NO. 633 FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2016. www.bkmagazine.com
15th Anniversary issue
THE NEXT BIG THING As BK Magazine turns 15, we look at the hottest trends set to shape Bangkok’s future.
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page 3 06 cover story
Trend Spotting
New Media
04 upfront
12 escapes
Number One
Polishing Pattaya 16 fashion
18 shopping
The Big Reveal
Innovation Nation
24 blends
26 bites
All Aboard
Follow their Lead
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 Writers Natcha Sanguankiattichai, Bonnie Sananvatananont Branded Content Associate Sureepak Janyapat Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Junior Writer Kankanid Mitrpakdee Production Supervisor Komkrit Klinkaeo Senior Graphic Designer Panita Thiraphapong Graphic Designers Chantich Kongchanmitkul, Peeraya Sirathanisa Junior Graphic Designers Wariya Whangwaewklang, Parida Ritthiron Production Assstant Saranya Chawanrattanasakul
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 Regional Marketing Manager Pavida Chitprasertsuk Marketing Executive Plaifon Chienvichai 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
Administrator Yaovaluck Srisermsri Accountant Manita Bangmoung Contributor Kathy MacLeod Intern Joseph Lam Cover Monruedee Jansuttipan
Group Directors Chief Executive Officer Gretchen Worth gworth@asia-city.co.th Group Digital Director Greg Duncan duncann@asia-city.com.sg
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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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This is our 15th anniversary issue. That may seem really old but Facebook was founded in 2004 and Google in 1998. That means we’re pretty much “new media,” right? In an effort to stay ahead of the game, we’re celebrating our birthday with an awesome concept for people to find the best restaurants in Bangkok: Top Tables 2016. The app, included for free in this issue, includes 120 or so pages of paper that never run out of battery and can be read even in bright sunlight. Restaurants load instantly in 300 dpi and the information is mostly correct at the time of printing. Sadly, the Top Tables 2016 guide is still missing some essential technology, such as the ability to aggregate reviews from clueless tourists in order to better reflect the culinary dominance of such esteemed TripAdvisor faves as G’s in Patpong or Nang Gin Kui in Chinatown. Instead, we have to use a panel of experts, which, as you can tell from how quickly Thailand’s new constitution is being drafted, is an incredibly inefficient way of doing things. The other problem with panels is the risk for nepotism. Everyone knows Gaggan was sleeping with David Thompson until Eat Me’s Tim Butler found out and told Paolo Vitaletti from Appia. It’s amazing the amount of incestuous goings on in the industry, given that so few women get to participate. (No, Gaggan’s pony-tail doesn’t count.) In that respect, the dining industry is much like the tech industry, which, for all its “we are the future” spiel, isn’t too good about making women feel welcome either. Maybe it has to do with a fundamental premise of technology and fine dining— they’re often designed for someone to get into your pants. Remember when Hi5 and the Facebook poke were your Snapchat and Tinder? Did you know video streaming and online credit card transactions were invented for porn websites? Have you ever wondered why the lights at Lady Brett are so dim and the cocktails so strong? Of course, there is Duangporn Songvisava from Bo.lan. But if we ever come around to launching our own Best Female Chef award, who gets the award the second year around? Supanniga’s Pracha Intarachit? The new chef at Sala Rim Naam, Uemporn Yuayaipong (who replaces the esteemed Vichit Mukura)? The female half of Paste’s chef couple, Bongkoch Satongun? Sadly, we’ve never been introduced to any of them. When a restaurant finally decides to stick a woman in the kitchen, they clearly have a hard time yanking her back out to meet the press. Let’s not forget that just a few years ago, being a chef was still considered an embarrassing profession in this town; and uncompromising young Thai chefs like Aston’s Zra Jirarath or Le Du’s Thitid “Ton” Tassanakajohn were unheard of. We’ve come a long way in a very short time. But if we don’t want the World’s 50 Best Restaurants and Top Tables lists to look so similar year after year, the time for another disruption (as the geeks call it) is now.
latest news and trends
@bkmagazine
see what’s happening
@bkmagazine BK Magazine Friday, March 25, 2016
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upfront HOT OR NOT
Hot: MRT tunnels
Not: MRT stations
When we saw the first photo released by the Mass Rapid Transportation Authority (MRTA) for its new lines we thought, “Wow! Going to work’s gonna feel like living in the future!” But no. Turns out that was just a pic of one of the tunnels under construction. The stations themselves will be modeled on the lobbies of dodgy three-star hotels on Srinakarin. The only thing missing is the breakfast buffet.
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Hot: PR
Not: News
Someone at state broadcaster Thai PBS seems to thinks that news should be about issues of public concern. You know, like the country only having enough water supplies to get us halfway through summer. This, according to Dear Leader’s remarks at a recent government forum, is way off. What they should be doing is 1) making Korean-style dramas about kick-ass army generals; and 2) communicating to the public about the junta’s latest problem-solving wizardry. If this sounds to you a whole lot less like news than it does public relations (or as it used to be called, propaganda) then you’d be right.
Hot: Lexapro
Not: Cocaine
The Red Bull heir who ran over a cop while drunk and on coke has yet to spend a day in jail. Now, Lexapro is in the spotlight, having been found in the car of the latest hiso in a fancy car to kill a bunch of people. Here too, the police kinda forgot to breathalyze the driver. And when they figure out Lexapro is just a boring anti-depresant, he can go free and we can all move on—except maybe for the families of the two master’s students he killed.
Hot: Moto discounts
Not: No motos
Last Tuesday, the Department of Land Transport called time on GrabBike’s motorbike taxi on-demand service. GrabBike’s response: a middle finger to the DLT with fares slashed in half on top of a bunch of other discounts. The only transport cheaper than GrabBike, claimed the Singaporean company, was to walk—exactly what we ended up doing last time we tried to use competitor service UberMOTO, who seem to have absolutely no drivers currently working for them.
THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID
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INTERVIEW Olivier Limousin, 42, heads legendary French chef Joel Robuchon’s Bangkok restaurant, L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon, which has just placed first in our yearly Top Tables dining guide (see insert) for the second consecutive year. Limousin has worked for the Robuchon brand now for 12 years, both in Paris and London, personally accounting for four of the stars in Joel Robuchon’s total of 25 across 20 restaurants. There’s lots of talk about awards in Bangkok right now. How important are they to you? It’s always good to get an award. It’s like recognition for the team that all their hard work has been a success. It shows that if you work hard and push yourselves every day, producing the best food, the best service, then people will recognize it. It’s been said that Bangkok could never become a leading fine dining city because the reputation of Thai street food is so strong—fine dining is not what people come here for. What’s your experience? Bangkok has become a very good place for fine dining and French restaurants. Mr Robuchon actually wanted to come here earlier but couldn’t find the right place and partner. In the two years I have been here I have seen the arrival of some very nice places doing French food. Of course, you have Le Normandie, very famous, but now also J’aime and Savelberg. Do you feel that other nationalities now visit Bangkok in search of top-level fine dining as they might Hong Kong or Singapore? I would say 60-70 percent of our customers are Thai. A lot of the other guests are from Hong Kong and
Japan, plus we have some French— Bangkok’s French community regularly comes here. Is the experience of running Robuchon in Bangkok very different to Paris or London? Working in Thailand is very interesting. Thais love food; they really care so much about food and cooking. It’s quite different from being in London, which is such a busy city. You work a lot. People are eating out every day, evening, night. It’s very competitive and stressful. You can work too much and forget your life. Does having that competitiveness help to raise the standards of a restaurant? Is there not the chance of becoming more complacent in Bangkok? I would say no because when you are in charge of a restaurant with Joel Robuchon’s name on the wall then the expectation is very high. People will not accept a single fault because of that name. Whether I’m here in Bangkok or another country then it’s exactly the same responsibility. How much is Joel Robuchon involved with this restaurant now? There are dishes which will be found in every Robuchon around the world. That’s 60-65 percent of the menu. But then each restaurant must use
the best local produce to make its own dishes. We will use certain local produce and give our menu a Thai touch, then Mr Robuchon may visit and see some dishes here that can be adapted for Tokyo—working for him you must always try to find the best local produce, which we always prefer to importing. How do you feel about the many restaurants here that emphasize the fact their produce is imported— this Japanese fish, that American beef? Well, of course this can be important too. We do import some products because we’re doing French cuisine, so the lamb, the veal. People coming here want to have diversity, there must be a balance. You’ve finished work, you want to eat some quality French food in Bangkok: where do you go? When I’m missing something French, some nice sausages or other typical dishes, then I do know one small restaurant owned by a French chef that the team and I will often go to just for something simple like a salad. It’s called French Kiss. You really should try it: a very simple open bistro in Patpong—the food is very, very good. Interview by Oliver Irvine
by Kathy MacLeod kathymacleod.blogspot.com
BK Magazine Friday, March 25, 2016
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cover story
What s Next?? As BK Magazine turns 15, we look ahead to the future of design. From the continued resurgence of traditional craftsmanship to the search for new eco-friendly materials, here are the trends we're tipping to define 2016. By Vasachol Quadri Naiipa Art Complex
The continueD Rise of Thai craftsmanship
Eqo/ogist
The influence which local craftsmanship had on Thai design last year continues into 2016 with brands capitalizing on the skills of craft communities for new products as well as lending their design talents to help develop existing ones. PDM’s polypropylene mat and Thinkk Studio’s Lanna Factory are two outstanding examples from the first group, with PDM’s designer, Doonyapol Srichan, winning Design of the Year at the Designer of the Year Awards 2015. This year she launched her new collection at the Thailand International Furniture Fair 2016, where Plural Design also debuted with its Gestalt stool and coffee table that take inspiration from the classic slatted screens used in tropical countries to block out sunlight.
Support from SACICT
Go Went Gone
Bolaha Lab
The job of connecting the dots between Thai craftsmanship and modern design has been taken up by The Support Arts and Crafts International Centre of Thailand (SACICT). The organization has launched a project that lets Thai designers like Trimode and Thinkk Studio connect with craft communities so they can breathe new life into their products. Now in its fifth year, the annual International Innovative Craft Fair took place on Mar 10-13 (see page 18 for the best new products). Some of the craftsmanship skills on display included indigo dye work from Mann Craft and Mae Teeta in Sakolnakorn and textile weaving in collaboration with Thailand-based UK company Maison Craft. New young designers to emerge from the event include Go Went Gone, Thxful for Small Mercies and the recently DeMark-awarded Bolana Lab.
new eco-friendly materials
Plural Design
6
Pineapple leather was one of the biggest recent international discoveries, but Thailand Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) has also launched an initiative called Design from Waste of Agriculture (DEWA), which sponsors Thai designers so they can research and develop new eco-friendly products out of agricultural waste. This year, one of the leading designers from the program is industrial designer Anon Pairot, who has teamed up Japanese designer Wataru Sakuma (who’s worked with the project since it started in 2014) to create the new Eqo/ogist brand. Its first collection, called Anu, is made from cassava, a woody shrub that’s one of Thailand’s most important economic crops. They’ve used it to create a range of pendant lamps, which they exhibited for the first time at Thailand International Furniture Fair 2016 (TIFF).
BK ASKS
Norranit Suvanich
Editor-in-Chief at Elle Decoration Thailand What’s the biggest design trend we’re going to see in 2016? “I think 1980s Memphis style has had a lot of influence on interior design this year. You can see a lot more geometric shapes and bold colors in product design, while interiors have taken to color blocking in pastels. Copper, rose gold and marble are three major materials defining luxury right now, and I think we’ll see more shades of marble going into the year, like emerald green. Of course, the trend for green living continues to develop, now going down smaller routes like products featuring built-in solar cells. People are also taking on board 'green' cues in the way they decorate. Whether it’s forestry wallpaper, furniture made from natural materials or indoor cactus gardens, people seem to be seeking things that make them feel close to nature. One outstanding example of this is The Commons community mall. Aside from its concept of sharing space, it also incorporates an eco-friendly design that maximizes wind and natural light while also using sustainable materials."
BK Magazine Friday, March 25, 2016
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cover story Moving to the Old Town Bangkok’s Old Town areas like Charoenkrung, Chinatown and Phra Arthit have been stealing much of the limelight from the city center. In Chinatown, bars like Tep Bar, Let the Boy Die and Teens of Thailand have brought a cool, creative crowd to the area, led by a design ethos which values preservation over renovation. Original structure, old facades and decades of unstripped paint make each space unique while tied together by a common thread of age. But the focal point of this burgeoning creativity will be the Thailand Creative and Design Center, set to reopen at the Central Post Office in 2017. There, TCDC will rent between 8,000-9,000 sq metres to deliver exhibitions, working spaces for start-ups and business matching services. Shma Designs, a landscape architecture firm who is working on the TCDC project, says it hopes to extend its plans to the whole neighborhood, creating a "creative district."
Teens of Thailand
Raw elegance This year, materials have been all about brass, copper, rose gold and marble. Meanwhile, 1950s-inspired furniture like that found at the Jonathan Adler boutique has made a splash. Here, you’ll find sofas sitting on slender brass legs and equally elegant coffee tables referencing mid-century California. Walk into Bangkok’s coolest cafes and bars and you’ll find a similarly refined approach. We’re sold on Rabbit Hole’s interior, which combines the raw structure of an old shop-house with a cool marble bar and huge rose gold spirit rack.
Essentials
P l u r a l D e s i g n . w w w. pluraldesigns.net
Bolana Lab. 2/F, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., BTS Chit Lom. www.bolonalab.com
Rabbit Hole. 125 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 081-822-3392. www.fb.com/rabbitholebkk
Eqo/ogist . www.fb.com/ apdspages
Teens of Thailand. 76 Soi Nana (Charoenkrung), 081-443-3784. ow.ly/S4Q0G
Go Went Gone. www.fb.com/ GoWentGoneVoyager Jonathan Adler. 1/F, Groove at CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-264-5080
Let the Boy Die
Tep Bar. 69 -71, Soi Nana (Charoenkrung), 098-467-2944. www.fb.com/tepbar
Mae Teeta. maeteeta.com
Thailand Creative and Design Ce nte r ( TC D C ) . 6 / F, T h e Emporium, 662 Sukhumvit Soi 24, 02-664-8448. www.tcdc. or.th
M a i s o n C r a f t . w w w. maisoncraft.com
Thinkk Studio. www.thinkkstudio.com
Mann Craft. www.manncraft. com
Thxful for Small Mercies. www.fb.com/Thxful
Let The Boy Die. 542 Luang Rd., 096 - 695- 6281. on.f b. me/1WYj9Cu
Tep Bar
Jonathan Adler
Rabbit Hole
PDM. www.fb.com/PDMBRAND
Branching Out How one group of designers worked with nature to create a community mall that preserves Bangkok’s trees.
Sabhat Rakitawan
8
Chanasit Cholasuek
Awarded Wallpaper’s design award in 2015, the Naiipa Art Complex has created a stir t h a n k s t o a rc h i t e c t C h a n a s i t “ D e w ” Cholasuek’s bold design for a community mall built around the existing trees on the site. It stands in the backyard of owner Sabhat "Kaey" Rakitawan’s house, winding between the trees planted 30-40 years ago by his grandparents. The idea, he says, came 4-5 years ago when the design team were briefed to create a community mall without having to uproot any of the old trees. Apparently, Naiipa is the very first project of its kind in Thailand, with the designers having to work in unison with arborists and tree surgeons to follow the lines of the trees. “It wasn’t just my idea,” says Kaey. “Back in the day my father wanted to build a house under these conditions but we didn’t have the knowledge to do it. So when I was planning
to start Naiipa Art Complex, my biggest concern was preserving the trees—it’s the first thing I discussed with the design team. My father and I both believed this concept could become a reality.” Head designer Chanasit “Dew” Cholasuek says that, though challenging, the project was hugely rewarding: “I was so happy after receiving this brief. As a designer, I want to preserve trees but I also know that this comes with a high cost. Concepts like this are feasible to do in Thailand, but the client needs to have a lot of confidence. No matter what we say or how much we convince them, if the owner of the land doesn’t care about doing it, then the project won’t happen. I hope Naiipa Art Complex can lead with an example of good design projects to show people that there’s a way of doing something commercial without harming nature. In Thailand, there are still too few design studios which are serious about the environment.”
BK Magazine Friday, March 25, 2016
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ADVERTORIAL
Songkran on Khaosan
Both locals and tourists love to party on Khao San. And the laidback party street is never hotter than during the Songkran festival, when a good time's not been had without plenty of delicious street bites, someone getting a tattoo and a steady flow of Singha beer. Here’s our guide on the area's best bars.
Bars
Street Bites
Bar hopping is a fun way to lose yourself in this water festival and get to know the neighborhood a little more.
Don't forget to fuel up during your adventures.
SUPERFLOW BEACH CLUB Best for: Laidback house and reggae music during the day; themed parties at night: Monday Lollipop, In Touch with Ibiza Wednesdays, electro house on Fridays and Ibiza-inspired In Bed with Space parties on Saturdays, curated by their rotating resident DJs. Look around: The Ibiza trance party vibe makes for a refreshing alternative that works just as well for after-work professionals escaping the pretense on Thonglor as it does for fresh-off-the-boat travelers. Hungry? The complex serves up bite-sized Thai-fusion options as well as creatively presented (and surprisingly fiery) tom yum kung fried-rice (B180) and pineapple fried rice (B180).
Superflow Beach Club
Our tip: There’s a set of swing-bench tables for those who want to dangle their toes in the sand. Drink up: Open a bottle of Singha (B100) or order a tower (B660) and enjoy your drink under the restaurant’s beachy thatched– roof bar. Superflow Beach Club, 9 Khaosan Rd., 086088-0129.
BAR NEXT DOOR Best for: Those looking to dance and party hard. This is not the place to quietly sip on a cold one. Be prepared for some of Khao San’s maddest party animals. Mulligan's
Our tip: Don’t make plans. You know you’re headed to the Bar Next Door. But with this crowd, you really can’t tell where you’ll end up. Drink up: Plenty of Singha beer to get your funky night going (B90 for small bottle). Bar Next Door, Khaosan Rd., 089-127-1463.
FU BAR Best for: Delicious Thai-fusion grub with a side order of booze and live music. Expect a hard-partying local crowd—this one's a favorite with office workers and college kids. Look around: The indoor space offers good views of the live performances (from 10pmmidnight) thanks to a stage in the middle of the room. For a wilder experience, head up to the second floor and join the dancing crowds. If you’re not into live music, take a seat out on the terrace and enjoy the hectic view of the street. The overall vibe is pretty raw—lots of metal screens, brick walls and wooden tables, while LED lights throw out a modern touch. Our tip: Drank a few too many beers? Don't worry. You can crash in at their boutique hotel right next to the bar. Drink up: Order a glass of Singha beer fresh from the tap (B119) to go with those juicy barbecue wings. 72/1-5 Soi Rambuttri, Chakrabongse Rd., 081-636-3000.
Look around: The barebones decor (bare bricks and raw cement) lets the flashing lights and DJ’s thumping tracks do the talking.
FU Bar
Nai Ngao Khao Kruk Kapi
Look around: Unlike those backpacker bars on the main road, this classic drinking spot comes with a high ceiling and open-air space. The use of dimmed lighting perfectly compliments the interior’s pale creamy white walls, creating a laidback setting. It’s also one of the few places in the area where the locals actually outnumber the tourists. Our tip: Grab a table on the terrace or the bar’s semi-outdoor area, where noise levels still allow for some conversation and light levels let you to take in all the eye candy. Drink up: Singha is B90 for a small bottle. Bua Sa Ard, Soi Rambuttri, Khao San Rd., 097-235-7934.
BUDDY BEER Best for: When you’re stumbling out of a riotous party at 3am, famished, yet ready to keep partying. Steer clear of the lousy hostel cafes and 24-hour fast-food chains and go here instead. This all-day and all-night bar and restaurant cooks up comforting Thai dishes and a range of seafood, whether it is a platter of juicy oysters, clams or a whole fish. Look around: Nestled on a quiet little alley off the hectic Khao San Road, this charming Thai-style teak house is the best way to escape the heaving crowds, annoying peddlers, and ear-splitting music. Sit in
Songkran Essentials
the semi-indoor area (note: it’s Instagramworthy!) or the spacious outdoor balcony with views of the neighboring colonial-style building. Our tip: Their signature pineapple fried rice is the obligatory choice. Drink up: A glass of Singha beer (B110) on tap. And do pair it with their fresh water mussels. Buddy Beer, 265 Khaosan Rd., 02-282-6157.
MULLIGAN’S Best for: This peculiar Irish bar is a longstanding fixture of the Khao San nightlife scene, and it just keeps getting rowdier and rowdier after the other bars’ shutters come down. Look around: The decor just screams Irish pub despite the many local twists, from the deep-fried appetizers to their choice of music. But the shamrock tradition lives on through their generous use of wood, big screen sports, large pool table, and vast selection of draft beers. Our tip: After 10pm, head up to the bar area on the second floor to catch their live bands. Drink up: Will it be a frosted pint of draught lager from Singha (B150) or a full tower (B650)? Mulligan’s, Buddy Lodge Hotel, Khao San Rd., 081-893-5554.
Aesah Rotdee
Phr aS um en Rd.
AESAH ROTDEE
Phra Athit Rd., 02-282-2119. Open Tue-Sun 9am-10pm.
Tani Rd. Open daily 9am-10pm.
Set in a simple two-story shop-house, RotiMataba’s fame has now spread far and wide, which means it’s often packed with students, office workers and night owls hungry for its namesake matabas and a range of curries and roti with different fillings—all made right in front of you in the open kitchen.
NAI NGAO KHAO KRUK KAPI Phra Athit Rd. Open Tue-Sat 8am-2pm. Just down the road from Roti-Mataba and close to a small cafe called Artist, this little street stall only offers three choices: khao kruk kapi (rice with shrimp paste, sweet pork and mango), khao pad nam prik and kanom jeen souw nam. The khao kruk kapi is, hands down, their premier dish as it blends a variety of tastes and textures complemented by their praiseworthy garlicky, peppery broth.
FLOWER-PRINTED SHIRT
lley ri A utt mb Ra
FU Bar
Tan i Rd .
SHORTS Ever tried walking in soaked jeans in 40-degree heat? Not a good idea.
CHANGDAO FLIP FLOPS
Sip Bow Sam H a on Niw ng Rd . et R d.
d. R se ng o b Kra kra i Si a h Alle C y
Bua Sa Ard Aesah Rotdee
Mulligan's Khao san Rd. Bar Ne xt Buddy Beer Superflow Door Beach Club
Nai Ngao Khao Kruk Kapi
ROTI-MATABA
It’s all about the floral look, but you’re going to get wet, so make it cheap.
lley ri A utt mb Ra
Khun Dang Guay Jub Yuan
Best for: If heavy-bass EDM is not your cup of tea, then you've come to the right place. Lose yourself in familiar pop tunes performed by live bands and a college crowd of hard partiers.
10
RotiMataba
. Rd t i Ath a Phr
BUA SA ARD
Brazil has the Havaianas; we have the Changdao (or elephant flip flops). It’s Songkran: be Thai and be proud. Added bonus: they only cost around B99 and are available at every mom and pop store in town.
CHEAP SHADES Things can get pretty wild out on the streets so don’t risk your Yves-Saint Laurent shades and go discount instead—just don’t look at the sun.
This place is easy to miss. Head down the side alley just past the 7-Eleven on Tani Road, on the other side of Rambutri. Look out for sign in Thai only (non-readers can spot it from the red color and the crescent and star logo). The beef satay, ox tail and chicken biryani are all stellar, but even the humble beef noodle soup is super savory and chockfull with succulent chunks of beef.
KHUN DANG GUAY JUB YUAN Phra Athit Rd. Open Mon-Sat 11am-9pm. The special ingredients brought down from Ubon Ratchathani are cooked along with your choice of different toppings like eggs and mushrooms. Even though portions are small, the gooey soup is just amazing, plus the moo yor is peppery and fragrant thanks to the quality pork meat. Make sure to get a seat on the footpath if you don’t want to get all sweaty inside the steamy shop–house.
SUPER SOAKERS
WATER BUCKET
More than a gun, these are the mothers of all squirting machines. Look for a discounted one at Tesco Lotus.
Fill it with water, throw water, repeat. You can fill up your bucket and water gun at available Singha water stations as well.
GOGGLES
WATER RESISTANT SUNSCREENS
OK, you might look like an idiot but at least you won’t get an eye infection when hit with a face full of klong water. Available at vendors on every street corner during Songkran. Don’t forget to bargain!
WATERPROOF CASE Make sure it’s just you that gets wet and not your iPhone 6s or that Apple watch. You can pick up one of these handy waterproof pouches completely free at any of the bars above.
Getting yourself tanned seems like a good idea until your skin gets burnt in Bangkok’s scorching summer.
WIDE BRIMMED FEDORA It’s not going to help you escape the heat. It’s all about the look.
Get yours at these cool bars!
SINGHABEER
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escapes HOTELS New Rooms PATTAYA
Back to the Bay Ten new reasons why visiting Pattaya has never been so enticing. By Monruedee Jansuttipan and Lily Kittisrikangwan VERANDA RESORT PATTAYA HOTEL This oceanfront design resort on Na Jomthien Beach is the work of reputed architecture firms Office of Bangkok Architects and T.R.O.P. The 145 rooms are modern, bright blue and range from 40 sq meter rooms to a 136-sq-meter villa with two bedrooms and a swimming pool terrace with sun loungers. The free-form swimming pool with its geometric sun loungers is a pretty picture, too. There are two dining areas, one of which has an alfresco rooftop zone from which to catch the sunset. They’re currently offering 15-percent discounts on rooms, which start at B3,823 per night. Chocolate Factory
Skoop Beach Cafe
Skoop Beach Cafe
Mini Mellow
Decked out with wooden tables, nautical-striped cushions and bean-bags, this cute container cafe is a real ray of sunshine on Na Jomthien Beach. Skoop is all about sweets like waffles, brownies and, our pick, the ice cream sandwiches made from cookies and rice crackers. Try the dark chocolate chip cookie with dark mocha ice cream or Froot Loops with Bora Bora vanilla ice cream. Right nearby you’ll find Burgler Burger, a Bangkok-born food truck that doles out rather extreme burgers like the triple-cheese Nuclear Burger which feature a 180g patty made from Australian, US and wagyu beef.
Opened just in time for summer, this tiny cafe deals in sweet icy treats. The main attractions are the soft-serve ice cream (try the milky vanilla or Belgian chocolate) and Japanese-style shaved ice in flavors like soymilk, which you can customize with toppings like banana caramel.
Na Jomthien Soi 4, 091-725-4569. Open daily Mon-Fri 11am-9pm, Sat-Sun 10am-9pm. www.fb.com/ skoopbeachcafe
Tree Tales Pratumnak
CHEF
Tree Tales Pratumnak
Asks) e proithout rt. One manian moked e and nother ng Mai apeno ulade, o Jack
The health-centric cafe on Naklua Road has rolled out a second branch on Pratumnak Hill. The smaller venue consists of a slightly shorter menu, but you can still get the usual freshpressed juices such as the Green Potion (spinach, green apple, fennel and mandarin orange). Aussie-style all-day breakfast is king here—try the Eggs Benny (poached egg, lemon hollandaise sauce, bacon, toast, rocket and radish). There’s also an enticing pulledpork “green burger,” so named because the bun is flavor with basil, spinach and rosemary. For dessert, there are Australian classics like pavlova and lamingtons. Pratumnak Rd., in front of Unixx condominium, 080-0445598. Open 8am-8pm. www.fb.com/treetalescafe
Sphere Bar
Chocolate Factory Khao Yai’s iconic chocolate shop has branched out to the seaside, where it offers some stunning ocean views from Pratumnak Hill. Besides chocolate, they offer a gorgeous selection of French pastries from Eric Perez, a French chef with a macaron pastry training center in Bangkok. Come at sunset for more substantial dishes like grilled Australian lamb rack with rosemary sauce and salmon chae nampla (salmon in fish sauce). Drop by on the weekend to take part in chocolate workshops.
/2,
12 Soi Rajchawaroon, Pratamnuk Rd., 092-467-8884. Open daily 10am-10pm. www.chocolatefactory.co.th
Ramayana Waterpark
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211 Moo 1, Na Jomtien Soi 4, 038-111-899. www.verandaresortandspa.com/verandapattaya
Mike Shopping Mall, 262 Moo 10 Pattaya 2nd Rd. Open daily 9:30am-10pm. goo.gl/7GaqkH
A La Campagne This quaint new complex takes the shape of a European country village, but its offerings are plenty Asian. Aside from Thai-Isaan restaurant Somtam Villa, there’s Tea Factory & More, a glasshouse that doubles as a tea lab with imported leaves from Japan, Sri Lanka, India, Taiwan and Israel, plus comfort dishes, “healthy” desserts, tea cocktails and kombucha. There’s also a shop and gallery, as well as an event venue for weekend activities like yoga classes and workshops. Making the most of the beautiful space, they’re also launching a Weekend Farmers’ Market which kicks off this Mar 26-27. Sukhumvit Rd., before the Huay Yai intersection, 061-4415181. Open Mon-Thu 10am-8pm, Fri-Sun 10am-10pm. goo.gl/SqOQfe
Sphere Bar The luxurious Pattaya Resort Cape Dara just unveiled its first serious bar. Sphere Bar may be set on the lobby floor, but its inspiration comes from the stars—as reflected in the futuristic decor and lighting, and space-themed drink list (think names like Interstellar and Berry Comet—plus lots of nitrogen).
THE MONTTRA The Monttra proves that Pattaya hotels don’t always need to feel like tower blocks. Located next to the Royal Varuna Yacht Club on the leafy Phra Tumnak Hill, this all-suite property with private beach access boasts an exclusive island resort feel thanks to 23 suites that look out over nearby Koh Larn and put the emphasis on open space. Other notable features include a beachside pool, tai chi classes and even a soap concierge. Special opening rates start at B4,400 (from B8,000) for the 42-meter garden suite up to B7,150 (from 13,000) for the 83-meter canopy suite with private plunge pool. 398 Moo 12 Rajchawaroon Rd., 038-306-333. themonttra.com
Cape Dara Resort, 256 Dara Beach Soi 20, Pattaya-Naklua Rd., 038-933-888. Open daily 5pm-2am. www. capedarapattaya.com
Ramayana Waterpark Set to be Thailand’s biggest waterpark when it opens mid-April, Ramayana spans 184,000 sq meters (or more than 700 tennis courts). It takes its inspiration from the epic tale of the same name, with seven zones comprising more than 50 rides and attractions, including a FlowRider wave machine. There will also be an adult’s zone with a pool bar and sports like water volleyball. Book ahead for a 20 percent discount. 9 Moo 7, Na Jomtien, Sattahip, 033-005-929. www. ramayanawaterpark.com
PULLMAN PATTAYA HOTEL G Pullman Pattaya Hotel G recently underwent a total revamp. It now features chic rooms in a palette of bleeched wood and white, as well as its own beach club. Their Songkran package costs B8,900 for a twonight stay between Apr 9-16. 445/3 Moo 5 Wongamat Beach, Pattaya-Naklua Soi 16, 038-411-940-8. www.pullmanpattayahotelg.com
BK Magazine Friday, March 25, 2016
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ESCAPE ROUTES By Monruedee Jansuttipan
CHIANG RAI
High Tea
There’s more to visiting tea plantations than taking selfies among the crops. Famous Chiang Rai farm Choui Fong Tea (053-771-563, 062-269-5988, open daily 8:30am-5:30pm, www. fb.com/ChouiFongTea) has welcomed a stunning new cafe that overlooks its picturesque plantation. Bangkok-based firm Idin Architects have stuck to a modern tropical style with lots of clean lines and open space to make the most of the Northern breeze. The cafe serves a short list of desserts such as cakes and toasts, as well as Thai and matcha tea. Apart from the cafe, there’s a gorgeous shop selling tea, including the signature oolong hom muen lee blend, which is mixed with aromatic sweet osmanthus.
PHUKET
Holistic Ocean Taking over the spot of the gone-for-good Regent Phuket Cape Panwa comes Amatara Resort & Wellness (076-318-888, www. amataraphuket.com), which claims to be the home of Thailand’s first luxury hammam, aka Turkish bath spa. The signature 150-minute holistic program, dubbed the Thai Hammam Experience, merges Turkish healing techniques with Thai ayurvedic methods, pampering you with traditional sauna, scalp massage, Thai herbal steam room, full body massage on a warm stone bed, detoxifying thermal mud bath and finishing with a stint in front of the giant pink Himalayan salt wall. Probably the most serious wellness center on the island, there are also fitness programs such as muay Thai, Pilates, TRX, Kinesis and yoga, plus detox and weight management programs. Book now while opening packages are down from B8,300 to B5,900 for the whole hammam program. Stays in a premier sea view room start from B7,100 per night.
AYUTTHAYA
Good Old Summer If you’re going to Ayutthaya, then don’t miss the new cafe from jewelry designer Chutima Ananraya. She has transformed her family vacation home right on the bank of the Chao Phraya River into The Summer House (086621-7695, open daily 9:30am-9:30pm, www.fb.com/thesummerhouse.ayutthaya), where Scandinavian chic decor meets with super-local dishes like mackerel paste (B140) and Summer Rolls (B130) made with Ayutthaya’s famous king prawns. Desserts like the Three Blondies (B75) also play with the province’s famous roti saimai (cotton candy), serving it in a mille-feuille style with Thai tea cream. They also plan to open up the space for more weekend activities such as riverside picnics and barbecues soon.
JAPAN
Northern Exposure A train ride which used to take a full day has been cut down to just four hours now that Japan’s iconic Shinkansen bullet train finally services northern Hokkaido. The Hokkaido Shinkansen (goo.gl/Zv8Joh), scheduled to open Mar 26, will travel from Aomori Prefecture to Shin-Hakodate Hokuto station via the undersea Seikan Tunnel, running with 10 return services daily between Tokyo and Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto, and one return service daily between Shin-Aomori and Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto. Though the Shinkansen is one of the fastest trains in the world, it will be forced to reduce its top speed from 300 km/h to 140 km/h due to safety issues in the tunnel. A ticket from Tokyo will cost you 22,690 yen (B7,000). But don’t expect to reach Sapporo—that route won’t be ready till 2030.
Have some cool rooms? Email your news and promotions to travel@asia-city.co.th TheNaiHarn_Ads_AW_110316.indd 1
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avenue NEW SHOP
Smooth Leather Luxury leather brand Mettique has finally opened a proper shop. Since launching in 2010, the brand’s products have only been available online and at selected shops like The P&L Club at Conrad Hotel, Havana Express at JW Marriott and La Casa Del Habano at Mandarin Oriental Bangkok. The new store at Gaysorn Plaza showcases the full range of bags and accessories, along with exclusive customization services. Brand creative director Met Hengtrakul says his family’s long history of leather-making was the inspiration behind pieces like totes, briefcases, duffle and cross-body bags in exotic leathers like South African ostrich, Italian buffalo and crocodile. Other items include laptop covers, iPhone cases and bowties. The customization service allows you to pick your choice of leather, colors and patterns as well as engraving. 2/F, Gaysorn Plaza, 999 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-656-1114. www.mettique.com
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SNEAKERS
POP-UP
FITNESS
Teen Idol
Eco Frenzy
Work It
Long before Adidas NMD or Yeezy, Thai boys and girls would queue up for pair after pair of Nanyang plimsoles. While we’re glad to know our old friend is still doing a roaring trade in the student sneakers business, we’re even more excited by its new lifestyle line. Nanyang Sugar mixes things up by adding a colored inner sole and seven different pastel shades of laces to the classic white model. The laces come in cream, pastel pink, pinkish purple, lilac purple, pale orange, sky blue and green at the same old price of B329 a pair. Available at Nanyang shops nationwide or www.fb.com/Nanyang.co.th.
Bangkok’s hipster crowds have been all over eco-friendly Swiss bag brand Freitag since Pronto denim started importing it last year. Now the brand has got its own dedicated space. Taking up the spot that used to be Swensen’s next to Carnival shoe shop in Siam Square, the Freitag Pop-Up Store will be around for a mere six months. Inside, you’ll find minimalist drawers lined with a whole array of colorful bags made from used tarpaulins, old bicycle tires and car seatbelts, from the classic messenger bags (B6,400) to the limited Sennheiser x Freitag headphones and matching bag (B8,800). A second-floor cafe will soon be opened by Sukhumvit Soi 38’s coffee joint Hands & Heart. 428/7-8, Siam Square Soi 11, 02 658 3855, Open daily 11am-9pm. www.fb.com/freitagpopupbkk
New online gym membership Fitalika launched in Bangkok at the beginning of March aiming to help you manage your fitness routine more effectively. A little like Guava Pass, it’s suited to those new to the gym world who want to explore what’s on the market before settling on a permanent arrangement. They offer two packages, the first of which gives you access to six fitness studios of your choice and the latter 12, with three passes for each studio. The app will charge you according to which fitness classes you choose. Studios joining Fitalika include I’m Fly Studio for aerial yoga, Legend Thai Boxing, Urban Playground, Yoga 101 and Taco Lake for water sports. www.fitalika.com.
BK Magazine Friday, March 25, 2016
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avenue FASHION Crop top, Something Boudoir, B1,790
Dare to Bare Thai designers go sexy in monochrome with their new spring/summer collections. By Vasachol Quadri
Mini skirt, Something Boudoir, B1,950
Off-shoulder crop top, Issue, B3,890
Sheer shorts, Greyhound, B4,595 Greyhound
Long-sleeve wrapped dress with cut-out waist, Milin, B13,850
Vickteerut
Mixed fabric see-through jumpsuit, Pitchana, B14,990
Milin
See-through skirt, Canitt, B7,450
Sheer shorts, Greyhound, B4,595 See-through sheer shirt, Canitt, B4,950
Essentials
Sleeveless crop top, Playhound, B2,595
Maxi skirt with seethrough above knee, Vickteerut, B6,800
Crop top with cut-out details, Vickteerut, B4,600
Greyhound Original. 3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-251-4917. BTS Siam Milin. 3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-1134. BTS Siam
Canitt. 1/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-494-1665. BTS Siam Something Boudoir. 3/F, Central Embassy, 1031 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-160-5647. BTS Phloen Chit
Pitchana. 2/F, Central Chidlom, 1027 Phloen Chit Rd., 084-4119955. BTS Chit Lom
BEAUTY Studios for the Smoothest Wax Jobs
STRIP, MINISTRY OF WAXING
REVEAL WAX SALON
The Waxing Bar
This Singaporean waxing studio offers whole body waxing but specializes in Brazilians and brow shaping. They use their own signature berry chocolate hard wax, which contains soothing ingredients like chamomile and aloe vera. They also offer IPL laser treatment for painless hair removal that’s said to last longer than a wax job. The original branch at Siam Discover is currently under renovation, so you’ll have to visit the new Central Embassy studio for the time being. B900 for full bikini and B650 for brow waxing.
This welcoming waxing studio feels more like pampering at home than at a beauty clinic. Offering head-to-toe waxing for both men and women, the studio uses three types of wax—strip, smooth (both from Australia) and silk (French)—which correspond to different skin or hair types. Prices start from B1,260 for all-off bikini wax, B890 for full arm, B1,500 for full leg and B1,010 for full face. They also offer a full body package at B4,200 for women and B5,300 for men.
This pretty all-white studio claims pain-free waxing with no double dipping and no roller wax. Their signature wax from Australian brand Lycon is said to remove hair as short as one millimeter long. Packages start from B1,800 for a Brazilian and a Hollywood, B1,500 for a bikini, B750 for brow and B2,000 for full face. For arms and legs, choose between strip wax (B1,200/ full-arm and B1,400/full-leg) or hot wax (B2,400/full-arm and B2,800/full-leg).
4/F, Central Embassy, 1030 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-160-5671. Open daily10am-8:30pm. BTS Phloen Chit. www.fb.com/strip.th
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61/5 Thonglor Soi 13, 02-712-8209. Open Tue-Sun 10:00am-8:00pm. www.revealwaxsalon.com
2/F, Ozono, 307 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-204-2800. Open daily 9:30am9pm. www.thewaxingbar.co.th
BK Magazine Friday, March 25, 2016
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avenue
Khao Mokoju
Khao Chang Pueak
Phu Tabberk
Phu Toei Nationql Park
Bang Pu Samut Phrakan
Outdoor Pursuits Five amazingly stunning hikes and bike trails just hours from Bangkok. KHAO CHANG PUEAK, KANCHANABURI At a relatively tame 1,249 meters above sea level, this mountain still gets the adrenaline rushing for hikers thanks to its perilous ascent route. It isn’t nicknamed San Khom Meed (or Knife Edge) for nothing. Driving there from Bangkok takes around 2.5 hours. Ability level: Intermediate Stay for the weekend: A camping area is available just before reaching the peak of the mountain, and many visitors set up camp here to spend a night overlooking the stunning views. Pre-booking is required though, as the space only accomodates 60 tents per night. Bumrungrad tip: Walking up an incline on uneven terrain can strengthen muscles while also improving balance and stability, meaning even climbing a small hill will boost your heart rate to burn a lot more calories.
PHU TOEI NATIONAL PARK Located in Dan Chang, Suphan Buri, this park is a 3.5-hour drive from the city and considered something of a hidden gem. Perfect for a peaceful hike, it boasts some incredible mountain-top views and two stunning waterfalls. Ability level: Intermediate
Stay for the weekend: There is a big camping ground on site, though visitors have to bring their own food and equipment as no services are available. An environmental study center is also on the grounds for those who want to study the park in depth. Bumrungrad tip: Summer is upon us, so beware of heat stroke. Staying properly hydrated allows your body to cool off naturally through sweating. Drinking plenty of water is the best option—and it’s best to stay away from alcoholic or sugary drinks. Lightweight clothing, that isn’t too tight, will also allow your body to cool properly.
PHU TABBERK Biking up past the spiraling cabbage fields on this mountain, located four hours from Bangkok, is definitely a unique experience. Although the ride is steep, the view from the top of the layer upon layer of farmland is totally worth it. Ability level: Advanced Stay for the weekend: Bungalows and tents are available for rent on-site, as well as an open campsite with restrooms and showers for those who want to set up their own tents. Bamrungrad tip: Biking is a lot easier on the knees, legs and feet than most other sports. Because of its low impact,
it proves as a great cardio exercise for those recovering from injuries while still strengthening lower body and core muscles, as well as joint mobility.
BANG PU SAMUT PHRAKAN Those looking for a bike trail away from mountains and national parks should head to this beachside route, located just over an hour’s drive from Bangkok. The endless stretch of coastline is perfect for a slow, stress-free ride. Be warned, you’ll most likely be joined by huge flocks of seagulls that love to crowd around the area. Being home to some 200 species of birds, this spot serves as a perfect weekend getaway filled with bird-watching, beachy vibes and great sunsets. Ability level: Beginner Stay for the weekend: A variety of beachside resorts are available in the area. We like Zaza Hotel Bangpoo, which has rooms starting from B950. Bamrungrad tip: Exercise, even in small amounts, has a positive impact on your heart. Regular exercise has been proven to help with weight management, reduce your chance of heart disease and stroke, and it even causes your body to release endorphins, which are natural chemicals that improve your mood.
KHAO MOKOJU Standing at 1,964 meters above sea level, this is no mountain for the untrained hiker. Mokoju is located inside Mae Wong National Park, Kampaengpet Province, around 400km from Bangkok. Trekking in and out takes a total of five days, but it’s worth it. There are plenty of beautiful waterfalls and untouched forest areas along the way, while the view from the peak takes in spectacular layers of surrounding mountains. Ability level: Advanced Stay for the weekend: The park’s headquarters provide basic rooms for rent, space for camping, as well as an on-site restaurant and small hot spring pool. Due to its high altitude, night temperatures can drop to 8-9 degrees celcius, making it as a great weekend spot for escaping the heat. Bamrungrad tip: Hiking isn’t just good for your heart. It’s possible to increase your bone strength by doing exercises that are weight-bearing such as hiking, running, weight lifting, tennis, or stair climbing. These also improve strength and balance, which can prevent falls and the subsequent bone fracture or breakage that may occur.
Bumrungrad International is the first Asian Joint Commission International accredited, multi-specialty hospital located in the heart of Bangkok, Thailand. Founded in 1980, it is one of the largest private hospitals in Southeast Asia, with 580 beds and over 30 specialty centres. Bumrungrad International offers stateof-the-art diagnostic, therapeutic and intensive care facilities in a one-stop medical centre. www.bumrungrad.com
Brought to you by Bumrungrad International Hospital
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avenue
Go Went Gone
Sarran
SHOPPING
Good Design Ten highlights from the 5th International Innovative Craft Fair 2016. By Vasachol Quadri
Nuttiya Tarn
Nuttiya Tarn
Thxful For Small Mercies
Kanita Leather
These casual-looking everyday bags from young designer Nuttiya “Taan” Ratchtrachenchai mix traditional Thai woven rattan details with canvas and faux leather in styles like bucket, tote and clutch.
This woodwork brand founded by Inthanu Faromkao, the designer behind M/O/M furniture, specializes in small home decorative items that blend together Thai wood carving and weaving techniques.
This brand rolls out small and large leather goods that take their cues from banana leaf-wrapped Thai sweets like the Kanom Tien coin wallet, Kanom Jak stationery bag and Kaotommad key chain.
Price: B990
Prices: B1,650 for beechwood carved pendant light, B1,150 for woven tray and B650-2,150 for wooden box carved with lotus pattern
Prices: B375-530
www.fb.com/thxful
Patapian
Ta.Tha.Ta
Traditional weaving and carving techniques feature in items like the brass ring with a bamboo striped pattern, blue indigo wooden container and wooden candle holder.
www.fb.com/nuttiyartaan
Bolona Lab Designer Duangkamol Vongsomsri creates a series of leather tote and shoulder bags made to resemble the natural shape, pattern and surface of banana leaves. Price: B12,000 Bolona Shop, 2/F, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., BTS Chit Lom. www.bolonalab.com Bolana Lab
Pica
This brand is always up for new things. After starting out making backpacks, it invented the eco-friendly Kiddee Project line of totes made from used dialysis bags, and has now given us these colorful watches featuring vegetable-tanned leather.
This stationery brand is all about fountain pens. Brand owner Pichakorn “Kong” Meedech presents elegant pens crafted from wood, brass and leather.
Prices: B4,800
Prices: B690-790
Go Went Gone
www.fb.com/picamede
Sarran For his well-established handmade jewelry brand, Sarran Youkongdee makes each piece from environmentally-friendly, re-used paper in designs that are getting more and more intense with every new collection. Prices: TBA
The Selected, 3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd. BTS Siam. www.tathatabrand.com
This social enterprise works with locals in many provinces to promote textile and natural dye skills. The resulting products range from natural-dyed tees and woven bracelets to home decor pieces like pillow cases.
Kanita Shop, Asiatique The Riverfront, www. fb.com/KanitaLeather
Prices: Price TBA www.fb.com/patapian
Maison Craft The founder works with local specialists in various fields all over Thailand including textiles, ceramics and weaving to produce ceramic teaspoons, woven pendant lamp and laundry baskets. Prices: B985 for pendant lamp BACC Shop, 5/F, BACC, 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02 214 6630 ext. 305. BTS National Stadium. www. maisoncraft.com
Prices: From B295 for key chains and B690 for tie-dye tote bag with leather handle www.fb.com/GoWentGoneVoyager
www.fb.com/sarran1982 Maison Craft
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Work & Play
They say work hard, play harder. Simplify your transition from the office to the club with these key looks which are both smart in the daytime and rocking at night.The key to it all is a good-looking bag that’s both functional and glam. Here are a few other must-haves for the season.
Longchamp
Longchamp
Valentino
Keep it Monochrome
Color to Kill
Hot Boho
Nothing can go wrong with black and white. The tip is to keep your outfit minimal but trending, like this maxi-length pleated skirt paired with a statement bag.
Color blocking is back in trend with vintage and deeper tones like maroon, pine green and brick orange, but now’s the time to keep your bag minimal in classy black—and always genuine leather.
The 1970s’ bohemian look provides a fun-loving, casual work vibe that’s never boring. The trick is to pick only one of the key looks—floral, wide-legged or fringe—and match it with a small leather cross-body bag.
Pleated maxi skirt in white, Misty Mynx
Two-toned top, Longchamp
Flower embroidery sleeveless dress, Kloset
Sleeveless suit dress, Vickteerut
Floral prints halter neck jumpsuit, Canitt
Necklace, Misty Mynx
Longsleeve blouse, Longchamp Le Pliage Héritage crossbody, Longchamp Penelope, Longchamp
Blue dress, Longchamp
Le Pliage Heritage, Longchamp
Longchamp 2.0 crossbody bag, Longchamp Sunset Espadrilles, Longchamp
Two-toned dress, Londchamp Sunset ballerina flats, Longchamp
La pliage Heritage Tricolor, Longchamp
Essentials Longchamp. G/F, The Helix Building, The Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-003-6166. Misty Mynx. 1/F, The Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-003-6650
Vickteerut. 1/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-782-8207. Kloset. 3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-1729. BTS Siam
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bites & blends
RESTAURANT
Double Vision Set on the second floor of Thonglor’s 72 Courtyard, the second branch of Lady Brett continues the barbecue-heavy focus of the brand. At this new spot, chef Jess Barnes joins the group’s executive chef Patrick Martens and rolls out killer starters and salads like duck menage a trois (duck parfait, rillettes and ham with onion jam, chutney and charred sourdough, B390) and smoked burrata (B590) with kale, mullet roe and sourdough toast. For something hearty, look no further than the buttermilk fried chicken sandwich (B320) which features light and crispy chicken, lettuce and pickles. The barbecue list covers whole fish (B900-1,900) and baby chicken (B450) to tomahawk and lamb shoulder (both B2,500). Desserts from chef Jeff Oberg are equally impressive (try the vanilla panna cotta, B225). 72 Courtyard, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 02-392-7626
BRUNCH
RESTAURANT
Hey Mikky Here’s a new reason to visit Mikkeller’s cozy house during the daylight hours: a brunch that pairs waffles with craft beer. Every Sunday from noon5pm, Upstairs at Mikkeller’s chef Dan Bark whips up his crispy waffles, made using corn starch and coconut milk, which he serves with delicious toppings. Options include the Eggsellent Benedict (eggs, bacon, tomatoes and hollandaise, B220), the crispy-crusted tender fried chicken and maple syrup (B220), smoked salmon and cream cheese (B260) and banana and stout jam (B240). Don’t overlook the pickles (B50 each), either. To match with the early-ish brunch vibe, taps on offer include Mikkeller Beer Geek Breakfast stout (B190), Spontancassis lambic and Zeffer Hopped Up Pippin cider (B170). 26 Ekkamai Soi 10 Yaek 2, 02-381-9891
Second Coming One of our favorite home-cooked Mexican restaurants has been given an update. Not far from the original location, Tacos & Salsa has moved to a bigger, bolder and more visible spot on the same soi, decorated with hand-painted works by one of the owners. In addition to old favorites like guacamole (B150) and tortilla soup (B200), you’ll find a new menu including the likes of Yucatan specialty pork pibil huaraches (slow-roasted pork with achiote, orange and other Mexican spices, sitting atop a refriedbeans-stuffed tortilla, B270) and taco dorados (deep-fried tortilla filled with pork carnitas and topped with cabbage, tomato salsa, cheese, sour cream and guacamole, B240). Stay tuned for brunch specials like breakfast burrito and huevos rancheros (“rancher’s eggs”). 21/3 Sukhumvit Soi 18, 02-663-6366. BTS Asok
ON THE BAR Riedel Wine Bar & Cellar The buzz: Riedel, Austrian maker of crystal wine glasses far too expensive for most us to need know about, has licensed its name to this new wine bar in Gaysorn equipped with a state-of-the-art wine dispenser which allows for up to 40 open bottles to be stored without oxidizing. The result is a huge list of wines to try by the glass rather than forking out for the bottle. The decor: The entire place reeks of the cash that must have gone into it, from the gorgeously smooth, open-pore wooden tables to the wall of cool, brushed-steel wine dispensers and of course the row upon row of Riedel glassware. In fact, one of their people let slip that they spent more on glasses than they did on the actual wine. Take your seat in one of the swooping pods that line the circular room, or head out to the vast open balcony look-
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ing over to CentralWorld—the only one of its type at the mall. There’s also a rather en vogue bar pouring out old-school cocktails, as well as a private room equipped with one of those best-part-of-a-tree-trunk dining tables. Very nice. The drink: Despite the opulent surroundings, most of the wine is at that, “hmm, OK I’ll join you for a couple” kind of price. If you’re happy paying B300-450 per drink then you won’t feel out of place, and that’s for the full 150ml pours. They also offer 30ml taster portions (B60180) and 75ml half pours (B60-450). We loved the 2012 Californian Pinot Noir from Sandhi estate (B130/320/640) as well as a 2013 Tuscan Sangiovese from Le Ragnaie (B80/200/395). By the bottle you’ve got some tasty looking Rieslings starting around B1,800, while nothing but the
Champers breaks the B10,000 mark. We can vouch for the Vilmart & Cie “Grande Reserve” Brut (B3,700)—an affordable, citrus-smooth belter. The food: The small tapas menu has an Italian-Mediterranean thread. On the hearty end of the scale you’ve got housemade egg tagliatelle with baby octopus and aubergine ragout (B380) and crispy speck risotto with roasted butternut squash and bitter almond, but most of the menu is taken up by charcuterie and cheese. Platters range from B480 for a selection of three to B950 for seven. Also try the creme brulee (B150). The crowd: Waifish women in long dresses and business-y out-of-towners. Think late30s-plus and stylish. Oliver Irvine 2/F, Gaysorn, 999 Ploen Chit Rd., 02-656-1133. Open daily 11am-midnight. BTS Chit Lom
BK Magazine Friday, March 25, 2016
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blends
ON THE BAR
Off the Tracks Thonglor’s latest cocktail bar, Track 17, hides on the second floor of The Commons. By Vasachol Quadri The buzz: Thonglor’s new food-focused mall The Commons is making all sorts of headlines, but there’s more to it than the ground-floor market zone. Hidden away on the second floor is Track 17, a bar decked out in a vintage train cabin theme serving some serious cocktails. The decor: Styled to look like a vintage wood-paneled railway carriage, the space plays up its 1920s Orient-Express vibe with a narrow corridor where you can quite imagine women in lace dresses and men in tuxedos boarding with their travel trunks. An amazing mixing bar sits at the back, surrounded by trunks, frames, globes and maps to set the mood. Enter the “carriage” and take your seat in one of the upright booths over by the windows or at one of the more casual tables in the center of the room. Or get close to the action at one of the three stools over by the bar. The crowd: Quite a wide mix, from young Thonglorites to an older crowd who come for drinks after dinner downstairs. The music: Quality electronic grooves, from electro-pop to stuff that’s more funky and jazzy. The drink: Familiar face Ronnaporn “Neung” Kanivichaporn (2014 Thailand World Class Bartender and co-founder and mixologist at Rood Hideaway) helms the bar, where he serves a list of drinks that’s heavy on forgotten
classics. If you’re a fan of Negroni try the Rosita (B330), which replaces gin with tequila and also features homemade sweet vermouth, Italian dry vermouth, Campari and a dash of Angostura bitters. Another must-try is the 20th Century (gin, carpano bianco vermouth, creme de cacao and lemon juice, B330), named in honor of the celebrated 20th Century Limited train that ran between New York and Chicago from 1902-1967. Aside from the forgotten classics, the bar plans to do new signatures that rotate after three months, to be themed around classic rail destinations. The first is inspired by Barcelona, expressing itself through a variety of ingredients from Spain. The Cadaver Revivor is a refreshing must-try, made from rosemary-infused gin, Cointreau, Fino sherry, lemon juice and olive brine garnished with torched rosemary soaked with absinthe, while Not Just Sangria mixes Spanish red wine with brandy, apple juice, orange juice, housemade cinnamon syrup garnished with mint, orange wedge and grounded cinnamon. For something savory, try Sabroso Martini with vodka, mancino Bianco vermouth and cucumber pickle brine served with Jamon Iberico and cucumber pickle. Alternatively, the sweet Churros is made from Ron Zacapa aged rum, creme de cacao Blanc, house-made butter milk amaro and served in a glass coated with cinnamon sugar. Vasachol Quadri 2/F, The Commons, 355 Thonglor Soi 17, 02-101-4525. Open daily 6pm-midnight
BACK FOR GOOD Three reopenings to check out this month
SORRENTO
SUGARRAY
BACKSTAGE BAR
The name has a long history in Bangkok. The Italian restaurant had been a Sathorn mainstay since 1989 before it closed down in the middle of last year. Now reopened as Sorrento Sathorn, it spotlights traditional Italian and European dishes and a wellpriced wine list amid a fittingly elegant setting. They also put some effort into the cocktail menu, resulting in drinks like The Don (B320), a sweet and smoky mix of Scotch whiskey, port wine, cherry syrup, a dash of Peychaud’s bitters and smoked rosemary.
After closing its doors for some time, the craft cocktail originator is back. You might have seen the familiar faces of Vipop “Tor” Jinaphan and Attapon “Berm” De-Silva managing their sibling bar, Q&A, during Sugarray’s absence, but now the two of them are back at their original venue permanently. The re-opening comes with a refreshed cocktail menu, but the real big news is a second branch in Thonglor that’s set to open in June.
Located on the lobby floor of the theater-themed Play Haus Thonglor hotel, Backstage Bar takes over from where Behind the Scene Lounge & Bar left off. Replacing the standard drink offerings of before are the creations of Ronnaporn “Nueng” Kanivichaporn (see above) and his team, who are also on-site to run the bar. The new signature menu will be ready by the beginning of April, but until then feel free to order customized drinks and forgotten classics of your choice.
Sathorn Soi 10, 02-234-9933. Open Sun-Thu 11am-11pm, Fri-Sat 11am-midnight. www.fb.com/SorrentoSathorn
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Baan Ekkamai, Ekkamai Soi 21, 094-417-9898. Open Wed, Fri-Sat 8pm-2am
L/F, Play Haus Thonglor, 205/22-23 Sukhumvit Soi 55, 02-712-5747. www.playhausthonglor.com
BK Magazine Friday, March 25, 2016
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bites Barrio Bonito
Jona Waffle
Brick & Bones
RESTAURANTS
Table Trends What Bangkok’s been eating over the past 12 months. By Natcha Sanguankiattichai Patisserie Potager
Arno’s
1. Veggies Take Over
3. Casual Rules
5. Everyone’s an Artisan
7. Mexican Food
The meat-free scene has never been so vibrant. Thanks to the butter-averse peeps at Veganerie, we learned that desserts made without any dairy can actually taste good (flip to page 28 to read about their latest cafe). Their efforts were recently followed up by plant-based vegetarian dessert cafe Patisserie Potager—and however horrible you think “plant-based vegetarian desserts” sound, think again. Meanwhile at Broccoli Revolution they’ve been doing their best to make vegetables as delicious as all our favorite full-fat comfort food.
After the Robuchons and Sushi Ichis of 2014, things have gotten a whole lot more… relaxed. The restaurants most causing a stir over the past 12 months have been down-to-earth spots like Err (courtesy of the Bo.lan people), Baan (courtesy of the Le Du people) and Baa Ga Din (courtesy of the Le Du people, again). All of these places go in for classic, rootsy Thai flavors in some form or another—and serve up some excellent drinks, too. Even fine-dining megastar Gaggan has taken things down a notch with his latest, Meatlicious (the name tells you all you need to know), while Water Library tapped into its inner Opposite Mess Hall to give us Seed.
Now we don’t just eat pizza. We eat 72-hourrested, wood-fired pizza certified by some officious chaps in Naples (Peppina). When we eat waffles, we don’t just eat waffles. We eat overnight yeast-raised waffles for a crispier crust and light interior (Jona Waffle and Chu). And it’s not just the bakers who are at it. Joe Sloane’s sausages come from pigs whose lives rank higher on the happiness index than yours does; Meat & Bones’ beef ribs get labored with more love and affection than a new-born baby; and Holy Moly’s pies—make that, “gourmet pastry parcels”— are so damn special they belong in a gallery.
It’s the hottest foreign cuisine in town. From upscale offerings like La Monita Urban Cantina to the return of Bangkok’s original margarita-jug-maestros, Coyote. Then there’s Ari’s Casa Azul, Koh Chang-hailing Barrio Bonito, Nana’s The Mexican and the new Tacos & Salsa (see page 20) before we even get onto the food trucks and stalls. Take a deep breath: Tacos Factory, Express Mexican Food, Cactus, Taco Taxi, Ta’Cone, Two Angels and, the latest contender, Luca Thaiger from the team behind burger truck Daniel Thaiger. (We’re talking under 12 months of openings here.)
6. Eating at the Butcher
8. Bars with Burgers
Arno’s is like the stuff of dreams: a butcher who’ll sell you a 1kg, dry-aged steak for half the price of any other place in town then cook it to perfection for you right there and then. We’d love it even more if we could ever get a table. We can at least content ourselves with the other places running similar operations like El Toro and El Gaucho.
We all love Junker and Bar’s burgers (OK, maybe not the lamb-mint one), but they’re not the only ones at it. And good news is that it’s now not the only bar you can get great burgers. You can now also get BBQ Sandwich King’s handfuls at rooftop bar 722 Craft Experience, and Daniel Thaiger’s creations at both Craft on 23 and Game Over Lounge, as well as its new back-to-basics burgers at Seen Space’s Brew Beers and Cider. The list continues with Brick & Bones whiskey bar, Hair of the Dog and Let the Boy Die.
2. Healthy Goes Strong Clean-eating freaks can have their fill—or at least their carefully controlled portion size—at any number of new places across the city. Our top spots for a bit of culinary self-punishment include the new venue of Dressed in Asoke, Phuket-born Dressed lookey-likey Farmfactory (opening in Paragon soon), and Absolute Fit Food, which just opened its first cafe after years of delivery service. You can also head over to new player Brekkie for your dose of flaxseed, acai berry, chia seed and other such wonderful offerings.
4. Beer Pairings Beer pairings are here and they’re here to stay— and we don’t just mean Leo and somtam. Taking the concept to its highest level, Upstairs at Mikkeller doles out nine courses of food way too fancy to be lurking above a beer bar, each one paired with a different brew from Mikkeller’s arsenal. The whole shebang costs nearly B5,000, but it’s worth it. For something easier on the wallet, check out Changwon Express’s Korean-Mexican grub served up with one of the best beer menus in town, or head over to Err (see above) for one of their soon-to-come beer pairing events.
Essentials 722 Craft Experience. www.fb.com/722craftexperience
BBQ Sandwich King. www.bbqsandwichking. com
Absolute Fit Food. www. fb.com/AbsoluteFitFood
Brekkie. www.fb.com/ brekkiebangkok
Arno’s.www.f b.com/ arnobutcher
Brew Beers and Cider. www.brewbkk.com
Baa Ga Din. www.baagadin.com
Brick & Bones. www. fb.com/Bricksandbone
Baan. www.baanbkk.com
Broccoli Revolution. on.fb.me/1LsDhDG
Barrio Bonito. www. fb.com/BarrioBonitoBKK
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Changwon Express. www. fb.com/changwonexpress Chu. www.fb.com/CHU. BKK
Err. www.errbkk.com Express Mexican Food. ow.ly/Qsh9L.
Junker and Bar. on.fb. me/1Z7wMN0
Patisserie Potager. www. fb.com/potagerbangkok
Ta co Ta x i . o n . f b. me/1R7thRk. BTS Nana
La Monita Urban Cantina. www.fb.com/LaMonitaUrbanCantina
Pe p p i n a . w w w. p e p pinabkk.com
T h e M ex i c a n . w w w. fb.com/TheMexicanBKK
Seed. www.seedbkk.com
Let the Boy Die. on.fb. me/1WYj9Cu
Slone’s. www.fb.com/ sloanesbkk
T w o A n g e l s . w w w. fb.com/TwoAngelsTacos
Luca Thaiger. w w w. fb.com/lucathaiger
Tacos & Salsa. on.fb. me/1Lu34Q9 Tacos Factory. ow.ly/ QsgwE. BTS Ari
Coyote. www.fb.com/CoyoteMexican
Fa r m f a c t o r y. w w w. fb.com/farmfactorythailand
Craft on 23. www.fb.com/ crafts23
Game Over Lounge. www.gameover.co.th
D re ss e d . w w w. dressedthailand.com
Hair of the Dog. www. fb.com/hairofthedogbkk
Cactus. on.fb.me/1TSGraP
El Gaucho. www.elgaucho.asia
Holy Moly. www.fb.com/ holymolybangkok
Meat & Bones. www. fb.com/meatandbonesbangkok
Casa Azul. www.fb.com/ casaazulbkk
El Toro. www.fb.com/eltorohouseofmeat
J o n a Wa f f l e . w w w. fb.com/jonawaffle
Meatlicious. www.meatliciousbkk.com
Veganerie. www.fb.com/ VeganBakeryBangkok Upstairs at Mikkeller. www.fb.com/upstairsatmikkellerbkk
Ta’Cone. www.fb.com/ TaconeBKK
BK Magazine Friday, March 25, 2016
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bites
OPEN DOOR
Veganerie Concept One of Bangkok's best-loved vegan bakeries opens a full-scale restaurant. The buzz: After debuting as a vegan dessert cafe little more than a year ago, Veganerie has now added savory dishes to the menu at this all-new cafe. The decor: You’ve still got that dark, modern-rustic look going on with plenty of bare concrete, chalkboards and heavy wooden furniture, but it’s brightened up thanks to the flood of natural light from the floor-to-ceiling windows. Dangling lamps, ferns and small terrariums all make an appearance. The food and drinks: Veganerie made its name dishing out desserts which looked anything but dairy-free. The idea is to cater to vegans with food they can’t otherwise eat, and here that’s
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extended to savory dishes as well. Creations like the vegan pasta with tomato and basil sauce (B230) use imported vegan sausage made from soy protein. You can also switch to zucchini noodles for B250. Other offerings include a pulled “pork” burger (B290) made with mushrooms, and “chicken” massaman curry (B230) served with air-fried roti and mushroom instead of chicken. There are also all-day breakfast items like the vegan deluxe yogurt bowl (soy yogurt, granola, strawberry, blueberry, chia seeds, pecan and coconut syrup, B210) and vegan simple breakfast (B160) with either pancakes or toast, vegan butter, coconut syrup and fruit. Of course, you can also find the shop’s much-loved desserts like vegan waffles, brownie sundaes, apple crumble
(B165 each), ice cream (B55) and various cakes. To drink, there are smoothies (B140-165) and coffee (starting at B55) poured with soy milk or almond milk. Why you should care: We’re more than delighted that one of our favorite dessert places has branched out—but it’s still the sweets which have us most excited. Natcha Sanguankiattichai 35/1 Soi Methi Niwes (behind Benjasiri Park), 02-258-8489. Open FriWed 10am-9pm. BTS Phrom Phong
BK Magazine Friday, March 25, 2016
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Feedpoint
Cafe Reverie
Craft Bread
NEW AND NOTED
Breaking Bread After operating as an online baker for a bit over a year, Craft Bread (Sammakorn Village, Ramkamhang Soi 112, www. fb.com/craftbread) has opened its cozy shopfront to the public. The baker specializes in 100-percent wholewheat bread (B155/350g loaf and B255/650g loaf), made using organic flour and your choice of grains (walnuts, almonds, macadamia, hazelnut and multigrains) without dairy products. Other picks include dark chocolate and cranberry buns (B75/110g bun) and oregano buns (B105/three 65g buns). Opening hours are limited to Friday (3-8pm) and Saturday (10am-6pm). Orders can still be made online via Facebook with delivery fees starting at B70.
Bagel Boy Asoke now has the humble neighborhood bagel shop it needed. Feedpoint’s (88/1 Sukhumvit Soi 21, 02-101-6335) single-unit shop focuses mainly on homemade kettled bagels (plain, onion, sesame, poppy seed, wholewheat or salt, B35). Add a side of
TABLE TALK
The Gardens of Dinsor Palace schmear (condiment spread) in several flavors including cream cheese, peanut butter and hummus at B30 each, or make it a sandwich with smoked salmon, smoked meat, bacon, peanut butter or mango at B150 each. They also serve salad (B120) and some homemade desserts. Do try the carrot cake (B85).
Sweet Dreams One of the latest additions to Lad Prao's patisserie scene comes from singer-actress and Le Cordon Bleu grad Sarunrat "Lydia" Visutthithada and her sister, Sarunporn. The fairytale-like Cafe Reverie (23/1 Sukhonthasawat Rd., 02-932-9388) offers a menu of French, Thai and fusion treats like the Peter Pandan (B160), which puts a French twist on the traditionally Thai combination of pandan, lemongrass and coconut. For something savory, try the duck ragu fusilli (fusilli tossed with duck braised in red wine and tomato, B250). Drinks include Lavazza Italian coffee (starting at B70), hot chocolate and smoothies from B140.
1217/2 Sukhumvit Rd., between soi 59 and 61, 02-714-2112. Open daily 8am-11pm. BTS Ekkamai This double-story 1930s palace was a royal family residence. Surrounded by luxuriant tropical gardens populated with swans, peacocks and rabbits, the colonial-style pastry shop, cafe and fine-dining areas feature European and American dishes including foie gras ravioli, oven-baked butter fish, roasted rack of lamb and pizza. Don’t miss the refreshing mocktails and delectable desserts made in-house. Exclusive privileges for Citi credit cardmembers. Get 10% discount on food only when spending 1,000 THB or more /sales slip (Today - 28 Feb 2017)
Natcha Sanguankiattichai and Joseph Lam
To redeem your favorite dining vouchers, please visit www.citirewards.com. Simply click “Thailand” and then “Gift voucher”
BK Magazine Friday, March 25, 2016
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bites & blends market + Events
EASTER WEEKEND CELEBRATIONS
Gateway Ekkamai Park Society
Advertise your business with us
MICHELIN-STARRED DINNER From Mar 23-26, chef Menno Post of the two-Michelin-starred DeBokkedoorns in Amsterdam returns to Park Society to present his three-, four-, and six-course dinner (B2,900-4,999) and a cooking class (Mar 26 from 10am-noon, B3,600).
starting from B6,000
A Guide to Bangkok’s Best Restaurants
Email sales@asia-city.co.th or call 026249601
BKmagazine.com/TopTables
BANGKOK FARMERS’ MARKET
Gateway Ekamai, 982/22 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-108-2888. BTS Ekkamai
Easter Sunday (Mar 27)
EASTER SUNDAY BRUNCH
Centara Grand at CentralWorld 999/9 Rama 1 Rd., 02-100-1234. BTS Siam/Chit Lom
Park Society Terrace welcomes bartender Charlie Ainsbury from Australia’s This Must Be The Place to mix up his killer drinks on Mar 24 from 8pm.
The Rain Tree Cafe
EGG-CITING EASTER FEASTING Easter brunch from noon-3:30pm with eggs hunting and painting for kids at The Rain Tree Cafe. B3,400 per person and B1,100 for 8-12-year-olds. Plaza Athenee, 61 Wireless Rd., 02-6508800. BTS Phloen Chit
Feast
JOYFUL EASTER BRUNCH Feast offers the big brunch with Easter activities like egg painting, egg hunting, magic shows and balloon animals from 11:30am-3pm. B1,800 net per person or B2,700 net per person with free-flow wine and beer.
W District
HOPSESSION’S 2016 CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL Hopsession gathers more than 15 craft breweries from across the world at W District on Mar 26. Expect 18 taps, 1,000 free beers and food. W District 1599 Sukhumvit Soi 69, 02-3812277. BTS Phra Khanong
World & Ginger
World & Ginger does a special Sunday brunch from 11:30am-3pm at B1,900 per person.
SPECIAL GUEST MIXOLOGIST
Credit card/Debit card payment accepted
Anantara Siam, 155 Ratchadamri Rd., 02-126-8866. BTS Ratchadamri
The weekend foodies market where you can buy products straight from the source takes place at Gateway Ekamai. Mar 26-27, 10am-6pm.
Sofitel So, 2 Sathorn Rd., 02-624-0000. MRT Lumphini
Sofitel So, 2 Sathorn Rd., 02-624-0000. MRT Lumphini
Parichart Court holds the Easter styled Sunday brunch from 11:30am-3pm with eggs hunting, face painting activities. B2,490 per person pr B3,450 with free-flow Billecart Champagne.
Cafe@2
Royal Orchid Sheraton 2 Charoenkrung Soi 30, 02-266-0123
EGGS-ELLENT EASTER Lunch buffet from noon-3pm at B2,400 net and a B600 extra for freeflow wine at Cafe@2. Conrad, 87 Wireless Rd., 02-690-9999
TWENTY-SEVEN REASONS FOR FAMILIES TO CELEBRATE EASTER
INTERN WITH US! (EDITORIAL, MARKETING AND ART DEPT.)
You must be at least 18-years-old
K Village
URBAN EATERY This foodie market promises international dishes, mini cafes, handicrafts, clothing, home decor and more in a vintage garden atmosphere, with workshop according to each month’s theme. Mar 25-27, Easter theme.
Twenty-Seven Bites Brasserie adds a kids corner with games, live music and face and eggs painting to its Sunday brunch as well as Easter chocolates. B1,890 per person; B2,290 with free-flow beverages. Radisson Blu, 489 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-3023333
Open to Thai and foreign nationals (for Marketing, Thai national only).
Candidates should be fluent in both Thai and English. Send your resume and a cover letter to jobs@asia-city.co.th
The Lobby Breizh Crepe
EASTER SUNDAY BRUNCH AT THE LOBBY
ALL YOU CAN DRINK FRENCH APPLE CIDER
The Peninsula features Easter specialties like hot cross buns, Cinnamon French Toast and Sunday Roast to its Sunday Brunch at The Lobby B2,200 per person (B3,200 or 5,300 with Champagne).
Breizh Crepe offers one savory and one sweet crepe with free-flow French apple cider at B599 net this Mat 25. Reservations required. 459/59 Suan Phlu Soi 8, 02-679-3393
333 Charoennakorn Rd., 02-861-2888. Free Ferry from BTS Saphan Taksin
THE EASIEST WAY TO BOOK YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS 30
EASTER FEASTING AND FAMILY FUN Seasonal Tastes offers Sunday lunch buffet with kids activities and Easter specialties from 11am-3pm. B2,490 net per person. Kids under 10 years old dine free. Westin Grande, 259 Sukhumvit Soi 19, 02-207-8000. BTS Asok
SUNDAY BRUNCH WITH THE BIG EASTER EGG HUNT
K Village, Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02-258-9919
You must send in a cover letter and resume. Specify which department you are applying for.
Internships are full-time, unpaid and last 3 months.
Seasonal Tastes
From noon-3pm, Atelier presents Easter-themed buffet with activities and special dishes. B1,699 per person with soft drinks; B2,199 per person with wine and beer. Kids under 10 years old dine free. Pullman Bangkok Grande Sukhumvit, 30 Sukhumvit Soi 21 (Asoke), 02-204-4000
EASTER BRUNCH Basil offers larger buffet lines from noon-3pm. B2,800 per person. Kids under 11 years old dine free. Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, 250 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-649-8888
Find out more at www.chope.co/toptables
BK Magazine Friday, March 25, 2016
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bites FOOD REVIEWS
Ramen Misoya HHHH Japanese. 44/3-4 Thonglor Soi 13, 089-053 7474. Open daily 11am-10pm. BTS Thong Lo. No corkage charge. B-BB F
While Bankara and Ramen Kio seem to be many Bangkokians’ top picks for ramen, this Thonglor restaurant (with another branch at EmQuartier) has won many fans for its miso-enriched broths. Ramen Misoya is part of a ramen empire that stretches from Sao Paulo to New York—and throughout Japan, of course. The decor at this Bangkok branch goes for wood-heavy rustic charm, with old miso casks lining the walls and freeform lamps hanging over hardwood tables. The menu centers on variations of thick pork-based miso ramen recipes from all around Japan, from Tokyo to Hokkaido and Nagoya. Both the Hokkaido karamiso
Saravanaa Bhavan HHHH Indian. 2/F, Baan Silom, Silom Soi 19, 02-6354556, 02-635-4557. Open daily 8am-10.30pm. No alcohol allowed. BB
Its sign boldly declares it the “world’s no. 1 Indian vegetarian restaurant chain,” but Chennai-born Saravanaa Bhavan slipped relatively quietly into Bangkok in December 2015. The numbers don’t lie: 39 branches in India, another 47 in countries all over the world, and counting. The restaurant’s ubiquity in its home state of Tamil Nadu, in India’s South, means locals often refer to it as their version of McDonald’s. Starting in 1981, Saravanaa’s rags-to-riches rise packs all the murder and intrigue of a Bollywood movie. Yes, murder—back in 2001, owner P. Rajagopal was sentenced to life in prison for the killing of a love rival, though he’s controversially spent almost all the years since out on bail. Putting aside any possible moral misgivings about dining here, this is some superb Southern Indian cuisine. The menu is gargantuan but typically centers on the holy trinity of dosa (thin rice and lentil crepes with various fillings), idli (steamed lentil rice cakes) and vada (crispy Ratings
Price guide
PPPP Forget it PPPP
B BB BBB BBBB
Only if you’re in the neighborhood PPPP A pleasant dining experience PPPP Not to be missed BK pays for its meal and does not call ahead or sit with the chef.
chashu-men (B240) and Tokyo karamiso chashu-men (B240) deliver a deliciously sharp yet dense soup, with the former being slightly saltier and the latter quite vinegary. The big chunks of grilled chashu have a nice burnt quality to them, though they don’t quite melt in your mouth as you expect. Be warned: the Hokkaido version also comes with fried potato, which smells a little off-puttingly of stale oil. Beyond noodles, there’s much to recommend, like the piri kara butano onsen tamago don (stir-fried miso pork with rice, B120), whose rich miso flavor goes perfectly with the gooey egg yolk. What the gyoza (B120) lack in flavor, they make for up in texture; we love their crisp skin and xiao long bao-like soupy filling. We’re also totally addicted to the salad dressing that comes with the ika gesso age (deep-fried octopus tentacles, B80). Though sticky and oily, this fried dish is a proper drinking snack. Dessert is limited to two choices of pudding—green tea and brown sugar—but they’re tastier and more satisfying than we’ve found at many other ramen shops. With its distinctive miso flavors, Ramen Misoya is a must-visit on Bangkok’s ever-expanding ramen circuit, and the side dishes aren’t bad either.
lentil doughnus). A small army of male wait-staff and cooks deliver dishes on steel serving trays, adding genuine warmth to the over-sized and over-illuminated, canteen-like dining room. The whole setup is not as accommodating to outsiders as some of Silom’s more touristy Indian establishments, but you’re rewarded with staples that are typically a notch above. Take the milagai podi masala dosa (B150), which arrives perfectly crisp with a generous dollop of delicately spiced potatoes whose flavor is elevated by an aromatic sesame powder. Likewise, the medhu vada (crispy lentil doughnut with sambar chutney, B125/2 pieces) come soft and moist on the inside with barely a trace of oil. By now you’ve realized this isn’t exactly all healthy eating—but it’s darn well wholesome. Meat-lovers will find much to enjoy in protein-heavy dishes like the kaima idli (B140), which sees deep-fried lentil cakes mixed in a spicy tomato-based sauce with a range of veggies. Delicious and filling. The dal makhani (black lentil and kidney soup, B160), too, is fiery, thick and hearty just as you want. Drink and dessert options are also exhaustive (no booze, though), with the mango lassi (B120) and super-spongy gulab jamun (B110/2 pieces) making for particularly impressive choices. What stands out about the kitchen is the boldness of the flavors and the consistency. That adds up to slightly higher prices than you might pay elsewhere, but we think they’re justified. On this evidence, Saravanaa Bhavan is one of India’s biggest dining exports for good reason.
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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Jangara
Menya
Bankar
BK Magazine Friday, March 25 , 2016
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now SAT Brooklyn to Bangkok Some may call hanging out of a window at night taking pictures of passersby a little creepy, but Jesper Haynes calls it art. Known for capturing raw, gritty everyday moments, the American/Swedish photographer presents his photography series, Brooklyn 11211, at Soy Sauce Factory (11/1 Charoen Krung Soi 24,) this Mar 26-Apr 12.
TUE By the Book
SAT Great Outdoors Bangkok’s art-slash-food-slash-music markets all start to blend into one another after a while. But this Mar 26-27/Apr 2-3, the team who brought us many a riverside market festivity returns with a bigger and better concept at Tha Din Daeng East. Dubbed The Great Outdoor Pop Up Experiment, the market will comprise a six-meter-tall "Rustic Warehouse" made of bamboo, where shopping stalls and food trucks will set up camp across two weekends. On top of the shopping, expect plenty of music from live bands and DJs, a river bar and an outdoor theater screening experimental films.
wikipedia Commons
Bookworms unite this Mar 29-Apr 10 for the 44th annual National Book Fair and Bangkok International Book Fair. The celebration of the printed word takes place at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, where on top of some 1,000 booths selling local and foreign books across all genres, you can expect workshops with leading authors over the two weeks.
SAT The Boat that Rocks Party organizers Go Grrls and Dudesweet are kicking things up a notch by moving their indie, electro and hip-hop act onto the top deck of a boat. Teaming up with W Bangkok, they’re throwing the return of the W Boat Party this Mar 26, promising a cruise along the Chao Phraya with DJs Cleo P, Mae Happyair, The Panlert Twins, Dookie, Aim & Boo Slur and Goodenough. Under the theme “Victory Day,” party-goers are expected to dress as flower people, nurses and military men. Tickets are B600-900 from bit.ly/1pjCK0R.
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FRI Lese Pretend This Mar 26, Sulak Sivaraksa, who has been accused of lese majeste on three occasions, takes the stage at Bangkok Art & Culture Center (939 Rama 1 Rd. BTS National Stadium) for a one-of-a-kind khon performance adapted from a traditional Ramakien epic. The social advocate and leading political figure showcases his political views in a dance performance titled Prach Thon Took, a narrative reflecting Thailand’s current political situation that involves themes surrounding class, wrongful dictatorship and the fight for power. Ticket reservations at 086-763-6644.
BK Magazine Friday, March 25, 2016
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ADVERTORIAL
now
Chill-out space
Vogue Lounge pop-up
The World's Pop-up Beach, Quartier Avenue, G/F
Beach Activity
Pop-up booths
LIFE'S A BEACH
Through Apr 27, the World's Pop-up Beach brings a seven-week festival of DJs, fancy nibbles and pop-up stores to The EM District. 1. TAKE A SELFIE
3. NIBBLE!
Haven’t given up on outdoor living despite the rising temperatures? Neither has The EM District, whose ground-floor outdoor space, a long terrace stretching from the BTS to a 40-meter-high vertical garden and waterfall, has just been transformed into a beachthemed fair. The decor by b|u|g studio sees a jumble of wooden beach shacks in white-and-blue or red stripes turned into open-air bars and shops—so Miami! It all lasts 49 days, and every week, the tenants get replaced by fresh faces.
If you can’t deal with the crowds over at The Commons, World’s Pop-up Beach could just tide you over. The weekly lineup is packed with familiar names like sausage-maker extraordinaire Sloane’s, master of breads Conkey’s, micro-brewery Chalawan, and beloved Mexican kitchen La Monita. Since there are eight food spots to fill each week, there are also plenty of less obvious names we’re excited to check out, like Shroom Garden, Minnie I-Scream and Guss Damn Good. This week, check out Luka, Kai New Zealand and Aussie brews expert Wishbeer.
2. SIP A COCKTAIL The World’s Pop-up Beach closes at 10pm, along with the rest of the mall. But given the weekend DJ and mixology lineups, you may still want to knock back a couple sundowners here to get things started on Fri-Sun. Week 1 (Mar 10-16) was French Riviera, which kicked off with a one-day, pop-up Vogue Lounge, where you could sip Moet & Chandon while chugging a Belon Oyster to the tunes of the Perrier Jazz Band, Atom Chanagun and French pop by Blue Randome. Week 2 (Mar 17-23) was Ipanema, with The Parkinson on stage. This week (Mar 24-30) is Bondi, with Jenny & The Scally Wags playing live and a light installation by Kor Bor Wor. And in the weeks that follow, you’ve got plenty more bands (Never Ending Summer), DJs (Studio Lam, Badmotel) and mixologists to look forward to.
4. GEAR UP FOR THE SUMMER If you’re headed to an actual beach—and have some cash to blow—The World's Pop-up Beach has simplified your shopping expedition with what looks like hotel boutiques worthy of an Aman or Six Senses. The wellcurated selection is all designer sunglasses, impeccable canvas shoes and crisp Panama hats. We’re particularly partial to the Calvin Klein swimwear and colorful Issue tote bag to take your towel and sunscreen down to la playa. Added bonus: some of this stuff is on sale.
Vacation shop
5. PLAY AROUND Grown-ups are meant to play chess, mini ping pong or get their face mapped onto a giant projection covering the whole side of Emporium and EmQuartier. But we’re much more impressed with the kids’ Summer Beach Camp (5/F), which comes complete with a very real "Rope Course Adventure" and a virtual, augmentedreality sandbox where you—well, your niece—will get to sculpt landscapes with her bare hands.
Through Apr 27 at The EM District. BTS Phrom Phong. www.fb.com/theemdistrict BK Magazine Friday, March 25, 2016
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now NIGHTLIFE
LIVE MUSIC
Wiwek
Big Ass
DJ Zinc
DJ ZINC
The British drum 'n' bass and house DJ takes over Thonglor's latest nightclub. Mar 25, 8pm. Beam, 1/F, 72 Courtyard, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). B350-500 (includes one drink). CITIZEN KAIN
The French DJ spins his fave techno tracks with support from DJs Ikono, Richie and Quiet&Listen. Mar 25, 9pm. Live RCA Bangkok, RCA , Rama 9 Rd., 086-860-0808. Free. NITE RIDE
A night of modern funk, boogie and disco music from DJs Boogie G, Dangdut Banget, Lows and Juice Willis. Mar 25, 9pm. Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. B100-200. BTS Thong Lo.
Citizen Kain
SUPERFLOW OPEN AIR WHITE PARTY
THE WOLF OF BANGKOK 2016
Khao San's beach-themed club welcomes British DJ and producer Jamie Fisher for their first open-air party series featuring an extravagant fire show from Tawee & Pock , nightlong dance performances by the Mafear Showgirls, plus plenty of drink promotions. Dress code is white. Mar 26, 9pm. Superflow City Beach Club, 9 Khao San Rd., 086-088-0129. Free. WIWEK
A night of electro house and tropical bass from the Dutch DJ and producer best known for his collaborations with Hardwell and Skrillex. Mar 26, 9pm. Onyx, Soi Soonvijai, Rama 9 Rd. B400 (includes one drink). GOTH TRAD
KURA
The Portugese electro-house DJ, ranked no. 67 in last year's Top 100 DJs list in DJ Mag, spins his biggest hits including "Blow Out" and "Collide." Mar 25, 10pm. Demo, Thonglor Soi 10. Free. LA CHOUFFE HOUSE MUSIC PARTY
A night dedicated to the best of house music from DJs Koish and Mendy Indigo. Mar 26, 7pm. Le Cafe des Stagiaires, 142/21 Sathorn Soi 12, 081-207-3077. Free. BTS Chong Nonsi.
This installment of the event that specializes in dubstep, drum 'n' bass and bass music features the special guest DJ from Japan with support from DJs Sweed and Bunnyman and Dragon. Mar 26, 10pm. Grease, Piman 49, 46/12-13 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-662-6120-1. B400. SUNJU HARGUN
Join DJs Why and Ed for a night themed after Martin Scorsese's 2013 movie. Dress code is "Wall Street Trader" for guys, and "Sexy Cocktail Dress" for ladies. Mar 26-27, 7pm. Revolucion Cocktail, 50 Sathorn Soi 10. Free. BTS Chong Nonsi. PLASTIC DREAMS
An evening of old-school vibes from international DJs Mikey Mike, Billy V, Mike the Butcher and Ronny Slama. Mar 31, 8pm. Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. BTS Thong Lo. MACKA B
The reggae artist performs his original tracks live with support from DJs Maft Sai and Dragon, plus food from Carribean Cuisine food truck. Apr 1, 9pm. Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. B400 includes one drink. BTS Thong Lo. ADAM ELLIS
The British DJ and producer, known for his uplifting tech and trance remixes of old classics, makes his Thailand debut. Apr 2, 8:30pm. Live RCA Bangkok, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 086-860-0808. B450-550.
The techno DJ takes over Thonglor's latest nightclub alongside DJs Krit Morton and BassYouth. Mar 26, 10pm. Beam, 1/F, 72 Courtyard, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). Free.
STAGE PERFORMANCES
dance SUK KA SAK KA RAJ
Cellist Yui Cello performs accompanied by dance, movement and experimental sound acts in a show about time travel. Through Apr 4, 7pm. Thong Lor Art Space, 58/1415 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). B370450.
theater UP POMPEII
Bangkok Community Theater presents the British comedy filled with innuendos and oneliners as part of a three-course "dinner theater" performance. Apr 1-2, 7-9, 7pm. Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok, 11 SukhumSuk Ka Sak Ka Raj vit Soi 24, 02-620-6666. B1,000.
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Asking Alexandria
classical HUNAN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
The Chinese orchestra group conducted by Xiao Ming performs a series of orchestral master works from Mikhail Glinka, Antonín Dvorák, Gioachino Rossini and more. Mar 26, 4pm. Prince Mahidol Hall, Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd. B8002,500. BSO CLASSICAL CONCERT NO. 2
The Bangkok Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Wim Steinmann and featuring special guest horn player Supreeti Ansvananda, performs pieces by Mozart, Prokofiev and Haydn as part of its second annual concert. Mar 27, 8pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456. B300-800 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre. MARC ANTOINE CHARPENTIER
The Bangkok Music Society Choir, conducted by Saranya Saratham, performs Charpentier's Messe de Minuit pour Noel and Missa Assumpta est Maria with special guest organist Alberto Firrencieli. Mar 30, 8pm. Siam Society, 131 Sukhumvit Soi 21 (Asoke), 02-661-6470. B100-600.
concerts VERY LIVE: THE LASER MUSIC SHOW
Z-Myx ft. Yokee Playboy, Flure, Blue Shades and Helmetheads perform songs from their various upcoming albums live accompanied by a special state-of-the-art laser show. Mar 30, 8pm. Do Not Disturb, Behind Nunglen and Escobar, Ekkamai Soi 7, 094-446-6269. B600 (includes one drink). ASKING ALEXANDRIA
The English metalcore band perform their biggest hits from three studio albums: Death to Destiny, Reckless
Paradise Bangkok
and Relentess, and Stand Up and Scream. Apr 3, 8pm. Ztudio Live Hall, RCA, Chalerm Phrakiat Rama 9, 093-939-9893. B1,500-1,800.
gigs THE BEST OF JAZZ & RUM WITH KOH SAXMAN
An evening of live jazz music from the Thai saxophonist accompanied by specially crafted cocktails from mixologist Mitchell Kai Lum. Mar 25, 8:30pm. Vertigo Too, 60/F, Banyan Tree Hotel Bangkok, 21/100 Sathorn Rd., 02-679-1200. Free. ROMBUSTION: PHILOSOPHER BROTHERS
The local duo known for their lo-fi, deeply emotional sound performs live. Mar 25, 9:30pm. WTF Gallery & Café, 7 Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-6626246. Free. BTS Thong Lo. BIG ASS
The popular rock band play their latest hits live, including "Foon" and "Lom Prien Tid." Mar 26, 9pm. Funky Villa, Thonglor Soi 10, 08-5253-2000. B350 (includes one drink). PARADISE BANGKOK RHYTHM SECTION
The rhythm section of The Paradise Bangkok Molam International Band, including drums, bass and khaen, perform their groovy molam tunes live. Mar 30, 9:30pm. Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261- 6661. B200. BTS Thong Lo. KURT 1967 - FOREVER
Local bands Jimmy Revolt, Madman, T h e L aye r s, P ret t y P u n ks a n d Nirvalung perform tribute covers in memory of Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain. Apr 1, 8:30pm. The Rock Pub, Hollywood Street, 93/26-28 Phaya Thai Rd., 02-251-9980, 086977-0621. B200 (includes one drink). BTS Ratchathewi.
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now ART OPENINGS
SALES & FAIRS
ANY OTHER
ART FROM ANOTHER SPACE
A series of photographic portraits documenting Bangkok's youth across various sub-cultures by photographer Pamela Dimitrov. Mar 25-26. Soy Sauce Factory, 11/1 Charoen Krung Soi 24, 061-835-6824.
Jutinut Songvoravit uses items found in the trash to create unique art installations expressing the wasted beauty of what is often considered unwanted material. Apr 2-30. Chomp, 63-65 Samsen Soi 1, 02629-2026.
AS ABOVE, SO BELOW
BROOKLYN 11211
Chaiwat Kudapun exhibits a collection of sculptures and handcrafted fine jewelry depicting themes of attachment and detachment. Mar 26. Koi Art Gallery, 245 Sukhumvit Soi 31 (Soi Sawasdee), 02-662-3218.
American/Swedish photographer Jesper Haynes shares images taken at nighttime overlooking 404 Wythe Avenue while he lived in a four-story walkup in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, New York. Mar 26-Apr 12. Soy Sauce Factory, 11/1 Charoenkrung Soi 24, 061-835-6824.
The Glass by Art Box
Jam Head in Wonderland
JAM HEAD IN WONDERLAND
ZAAP ON SALE #6: ALOHA SUMMER
After hosting the Dream Castle Fest at the end of last year, the vast area that used to be Wonderland Fun Park will be taken over by annother cutesy outdoor gathering that takes advantage of the iconic castle. Expect live performances by more mainstream acts Lula, Jetset'er, Atom and many more. There will be food, DIY arty products, a HOBS pop-up bar and plenty of parking space. Mar 25-27, 4pm; Apr 1-3, 4pm. Wonder World Fun Park, 41 Kanchanaphisek Rd.
A shopping trip at Zaap on Sale is never that cheap (especially at the stalls in the VIP zone in the outer hall), but the organizers always manage to bring in pretty much all the online fashion shops that we know and love (which add up to around 400 in total), as well as a very fashionable crowd (they even have a lookbook of their customers). You're not gonna go there for the food (but you don't really need to eat). The fact that the indoor space is massive means that it will be a much more comfortable shopping sesh, especially now that the summer heat has arrived. Apr 2-3, 10am. Royal Paragon Hall, 5/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-6108023.
THE GREAT OUTDOOR POP UP EXPERIMENT
ORDINARY MIRACLE
PERMANENT SPRAYCATION
Indian artist Anita Bose blends traditional Indian folk art styles with contemporary techniques in her latest collection of paintings depicting moments of tranquility. Mar 29-May 1. Neilson Hays Library, 195 Surawong Rd., 02-233-1731.
Graffiti artist Tones One EDK from Switzerland presents a six-month travel diary of graffiti, paintings, photos and videos. Mar 28-Apr 10. GOJA Gallery Cafe, 5/2 Pridi Soi 3, 085-848-7576.
ART HIGHLIGHT
The popular market returns, this time taking over the riverside at Tha Din Daeng East Pier for a unique market set in a six-meter-tall "Rustic Warehouse" made of bamboo. It promises food from The Kitchen Mess, Guss Damn Good, Blue Dye Cafe and more, plus live music from Gym & Swim, Inspirative Band, X0809 and Marathon. There will also be a "Neon Club" featuring live DJs, a river bar and an outdoor theater screening experimental films. Mar 26-27, 6pm; Apr 2-3, 6pm. Tha Din Daeng East Pier, Tha Din Daeng Rd. NIGHT BIKE MARKET
Our favorite riverside community mall plays host to the third edition of the Night Bike Market, which features organized nighttime cycling trips around the Old Town (Phra Nakhon Wonder Trip on Mar 26 and Zog Zag trip No. 2 on Mar 27), on top of a small selection of vendors. Even if you're not a cycling enthusiast, you can still use this opportunity to return to this awesome part of town, which has been blessed with some interesting recent openings lately. Mar 26-27, 3pm. Tha Maharaj, 11/1, Maharaj Rd., 02-866-3163-4, 090-926-5265. GATEWAY MARKET EP. 2 SUMMER ALOHA
If you've been to Gateway Ekkamai, you will have noticed fashion markets from time to time right on the outdoor space that connects this Japanese community mall to BTS Ekkamai. Here's one by Chic Market Event, organized especially for those who want to stroll around after work. They're also promising a free space for workshops, plus some decent fashion finds that are surprisingly not that expensive. Mar 28-29, 10am. Through July 15, Rachadamnoem Contemporary Art Center hosts the first ever Bangkok Art Festival, a recurring weekend event that aims to promote art as something that can be enjoyed and accessed by everyone in the city. On top of a huge market selling art and design works from professional and emerging local artists, expect plenty of street buskers, live music performances and DIY workshops taking place every weekend. Naturally, there will also be plenty of food trucks. 4pm-8pm. Free entry. RCAC, 84 Ratchadamnoen Klang Rd., 02-222-48030.
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Gateway Market Ep. 2
NATIONAL BOOK FAIR AND BANGKOK INTERNATIONAL BOOK FAIR
For the 44th year, this annual celebration of literature brings together writers and publishers across all genres for special talks and discussions, as well as nearly 1,000 booths selling local and international books. Mar 29Apr 10, 10am. Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, 60 New Ratchadapisek Rd., 02-229- 3000. Free. MRT Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre. THE GLASS BY ART BOX
After a short break, Bangkok's biggest container market returns with stalls selling clothes, food, drinks and handmade items. Through Jun 19, 5pm. The EmDistrict, The Emquartier and The Emporium, Sukhumvit Rd., 02269-1000. 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 Tattoo Colour, Singto Namchok and Lipta, plus plenty of other surprise festivities are also lined up. Open every ThuSun until Jul 1. Through Jul 1, 5pm. Lumphini Park, Rama 4 Rd.
BK Weekend
Our weekly e-newsletter with top stories and happenings around town
www.bkmagazine.com/newsletters
BK Magazine Friday, March 25, 2016
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now ART Best Galleries in Sathorn
Gallery Ver
Sathorn 11 Art Space
Bangkok CityCity Gallery
Sathorn may be the city’s business district, but with the recent arrival of Gallery Ver (see below) it’s safe to say that it now also boasts one of the highest densities of cool art spaces, giving some competition to nearby Charoenkrung and Silom.Here are our picks:
COME 4, PAY 3! International Buffet Lunch at Vivanda Cuisine
GALLERY VER
SATHORN 11 ART SPACE
Sathorn’s latest contemporary art gallery comes in the form of a large, open space with airy high ceilings perfect for welcoming large-scale artworks. The gallery dedicates itself to exhibiting conceptual artworks by using the space to accommodate the needs of each project in whatever way possible, in an attempt to promote more experimental art in Bangkok. Also attached to the building is Tentacles, formerly of Thonglor, an art space-slash-cafe that frequently hosts art workshops, exhibitions and activities while serving up coffee and snacks. The opening exhibition at this new gallery, "Wett", sees Chiang-Mai based artist Mit Jai Inn cover the walls, floor and ceiling of the space with his abstract paintings. It runs through Apr 2.
Emerging in an unlikely residential alley of Sathorn Soi 11, the 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 given to Thai artists selected from across the country. The attached Gallery Pizza, which gives employment opportunities to aspiring artists, isn’t bad either.
Narathiwas Soi 15 (Sathu Pradit), 089-988-5890.
BANGKOK CITYCITY GALLERY
Only THB 550++ per person Available every day from 11:30 to 14:30 hrs Valid from now until April 30, 2016 For more information and reservation, please call 02-582-8282 ext. 4002 Price is subject to 10% service charge and applicable 7% government tax
Wanda Grand Hotel 111 M.4 Chaengwattana Road, Klongklua, Pakkred, Nonthaburi 11120 P: +66 2582 8282 bestwesternasia.com
This massive, purpose-built white cube right by Lumpini Park facilitates all forms of art, whether it's paintings, video installations or live performances. Its opening exhibition, for which it set up a maze of tunnels to display works by celebrated local cartoonist Wisut Ponnimit, was an instant smash. The owner is young and rooted in Bangkok's art, skateboard and design subcultures, ensuring a cool if sometimes clique-y crowd. Next up is Korakrit Arunanondchai's "Painting With History in a Room Filled with People with Funny Names," opening Apr 3. 13/3 Sathorn Soi 1, 083-087-2725. MRT Lumphini.
Nestled on Yen Akart Road, the multi-purpose, by-appointment-only igallery hosts monthly exhibitions from both local and visiting international artists. The modernist building's soaring ceilings, expansive use of glass and a crisp white facade take influence from 1930s European architecture, while out front you'll find a 600-sq-meter sculpture garden. Since opening, it's become something of a meeting point for artists, critics and collectors thanks to regular arty dinner events. 69 Soi Prasat Suk, Yen Akat Rd., 02-235-9800. MRT Khlong Toei.
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404 Sathorn Soi 11, 02-004-1199. BTS Surasak.
H GALLERY
Set in a beautiful late-19th century, wooden building, H Gallery's exhibitions represent emerging contemporary Asian artists and are curated by Brian Curtin, one of the foremost experts in this field. One of Bangkok's more daring art spaces, it's not afraid to host provocative or controversial work. Currently showing is Krit Ngamsom's series, "The Body You Want" involving variously sized toy robots exploring childhood nostalgia while serving as a deeper metaphor for de-humanized labor in the modern world. It runs through Mar 31. 201 Sathorn Soi 12, 085-021-5508. BTS Chong Nonsi.
KATHMANDU PHOTO GALLERY
Manit Sriwanichpoom’s two-floor gallery sits in a restored pre-WWII shop-house. Open since 2006, it’s still Bangkok’s preeminent photography gallery, with a focus on Thai society's transformation and urbanization. Kathmandu also preserves and rediscovers the works of forgotten masters of Thai photography. Customers interested in acquiring one of Manit's works can also browse them from a folder, just like in photo-art shops of days long past. It also includes a specialty book store focused on Hinduism and Shamanism. On show now is "Danse Macabre," Parparhn Sirima Chaipreechawit’s latest photography exhibition capturing the people of Kathmandu post-earthquake with an eerie maze-like quality. It runs through Apr 30. 87 Pan Rd., 02-234-6700. BTS Surasak.
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ARTIST Q&A Verapong Sritrakulkitjakoarn
My favorite artist is… Corrado Ferochi. He paved the way for Thai art and taught me how it is not simply a hobby, but a tool that can have the power to make a significant, nation-wide impact. My favorite art gallery in Bangkok is… Museum Siam. It’s more of a museum than a gallery, but the space is very open and interactive, making it also great for displaying art. One thing I love about the Thai art scene is… it’s a close-knit circle of artists. Everyone supports one another and helps to promote each other’s work through a mutual appreciation for good artwork. This level of support makes it a lot easier for emerging artists. One thing that bugs me about the Thai art scene is… hearing artists talk about the price of the equipment used, how much the artwork will sell for and things like that, rather than focusing on the art itself. In the future, I want to see Thai artists… remember the things that first inspired them to fall in love with art. Sometimes, I think Thai artists get so concerned with producing a masterpiece that they forget to appreciate the inspirations constantly around us.
Verapong Sritrakulkitjakarn’s latest exhibition, Painter Prestige, presents a series of intricate collage works on canvas, capturing his artistic life and how each piece reflects his values, beliefs and sense of spirit. It runs at The National Gallery Bangkok (Chao Fa Rd, Phra Nakhon) from Apr 8-30.
SPORTS
Colour Miles for Smiles
10K THAILAND CHAMPIONSHIP
A 10km race to determine the fastest long-distance runners in the country. Stay updated at on.fb.me/1XkNAz0. Apr 3. National Stadium (Suphachalasai Stadium), 154 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-0120. BTS National Stadium. SONGKRAN RUN 2016
Kick-start Songkran with some healthy exercise at this run offering 2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10km distances. Three fun stations will take place along the track: water, powder play and Thai folk dancing. Apr 3, 5pm. Lumphini Park, Rama 4 Rd. B350. COLOUR MILES FOR SMILES
The international schools of Bangkok have teamed up for the third year to organize this charity fundraiser for Operation Smile, providing surgery for children with cleft lips around the country. Every kilometer completed at this run will
MBKG Charity Race
surprise runners with a different colored powder. Apr 9, 5pm. Lumphini Park, Rama 4 Rd. B800. MBKG 2ND CHARITY RACE BANGKOK 2016
MBK's annual charity race offers 5km and 10km runs, with all proceeds donated to less forunate children around the country. Register at on.fb.me/1SXj5zG. Apr 24, 6:30am. Lumphini Park, Rama 4 Rd. B500. TU WALK AND RUN 2016
Thammasat University's running event to raise proceeds for supporting the needs of Thammasat hospital. Offering 3.5km, 7.5km and 14km distances. Register at on.fb.me/1R254zi. Apr 24, 5am. Thammasat University Rangsit Campus, 99, Soi Ban Uea Athon Phahon Yothin Project, Khlong Nung. B300.
BK Magazine Friday, March 25, 2016
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now FILM Opening
BATMAN V SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE (USA)
Action. Batman (Ben Affleck) travels from Gotham City to Metropolis in order to challenge the credentials of the city’s rival superhero (Henry Cavill), putting the entire world at threat. Mar 24
RISEN (USA)
Action. Two Roman military tribunes, Clavius (Joseph Fiennes) and Lucius (Tom Felton), must solve the mystery of what happened to Jesus after the crucifixion in order to prevent the uprising of Jerusalem. Mar 24
Upcoming
MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING 2 (USA)
10 CLOVERFIELD LANE (USA)
Comedy. While trying to juggle their marital problems and rebellious teenage daughter, Toula (Nia Vardalos) and Ian (John Corbett) are suddenly informed that they have yet another massive Greek wedding to prepare for. Mar 31
Drama/Sci-Fi. After surviving a horrific car accident, Michelle (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) wakes up in an underground bunker with two strange men who insist that they must remain inside to stay safe. Mar 31
ABOUT RAY (USA)
11 12 13 RUK GUN JA TAI (THAI)
Drama. A teenager (Elle Fanning) wishing to transition from female to male must go through a journey of acceptance from her family members (Naomi Watts, Susan Sarandon and Tate Donovan). Mar 31
Comedy/Horror. When three teens die under separate tragic circumstances across each three days of the Songkran festival, they all come back to haunt their friends and loved ones in terrifying and humorous ways. Mar 31
SPECIAL SCREENINGS other who attends an expensive boarding school in Beijing, both of whom feel abandoned by their parents.
Look Love
Between Mar 26-Apr 3, the Thai Film Archive hosts the 6th annual Salaya International Documentary Film Festival. This year’s event, themed “Sense and Sensibility,” is all about films that follow women’s journeys around the world. For the full schedule, visit www.fb.com/SalayaDoc Tour of Duty (2012), directed by Park Kyoung Tae, Kim Dong Ryung A woman running an old burger restaurant she’s owned for the past 40 years unexpectedly receives letters from the past. Look Love (2015), directed by Ye Yun A sentimental insight into the lives of two Chinese children, one who works on a farm to support his family and an-
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No Lullaby (2014), directed by Helen Simon A woman in her late 50s is forced to confront the childhood abuse she suffered at the hands of her father when she discovers that her own daughter is suffering from a similar reality. Dreamcatcher (2015), directed by Kim Longinotto A young drug-addicted prostitute wakes up in hospital and decides to make some changes to her life in this hard-hitting look at female violence, exploitation and the sex industry. Please Remember Me (2015), directed by Qing Zhao Despite struggling with Alzheimer’s, 88-year-old former school principal Lou is determined to live a happy, active life with her husband. However, when her he falls ill, the couple are forced to move into a nursing home.
BK Magazine Friday, March 25, 2016
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