BK Magazine 675 January 27, 2017

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BK MAGAZINE NO. 675 FRIDAY, JANUARY 27, 2017. www.bkmagazine.com

Lo e m Secret i Chinatown Where the people of Yaowarat really go to eat

ไชน่าทาวน์

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BK Magazine Friday, January 27, 2017

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page 3 What We’ve Learned

8 cover story

Chow Down

4 upfront

16 fashion

Hair Today

Brand Appeal 18 bites

20 blends

New Year Deals

Chinese Dream

22 bites

24 BK Now

Tea Time

Plan Your Week

Who's in charge?

Managing Director Andrew Hiransomboon Editor in Chief / Product Director Grégoire Glachant Managing Editor Oliver Irvine Deputy Editor Carl Dixon, Thitipol Panyalimpanun Features Associate Monruedee Jansuttipan Branded Content Associate Sureepak Janyapat Staff Writers Natcha Sanguankiattichai, Bonnie Sananvatananont Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Junior Writers Theerada Moonsiri, Choltanutkun Tunatiruj, Kulthida Srino, Kasidit Srivilai Deputy Art Director Vatanya Bongkotkarn Production Supervisor Komkrit Klinkaeo Senior Graphic Designers Chantich Kongchanmitkul, Peeraya Sirathanisa Content Designer Saranya Laowtrakul Junior Graphic Designer Waratchaya Boonket Photographer Chissanupong Narmmoolnark

Where to find us!

The Asia City Media Group

Advertising Director Wanida Akeapichai Sales Managers Tipkritta Chiraporncharas, Orajira Sukkasem, Onwara Sittirug Senior Sales Associates Tassanee Mahamad, Nattaya Bovornsettanon, Orakarn Laohakanjanasiri, Amarit Jinaya Marketing Manager Pymporn Pinkaew Marketing Executive Plaifon Chienvichai Senior Project Manager Chayanap Tongdadas Project Coordinator Nutnicha Nuttanakorn Finance Manager Supaporn Bangmoung Assistant Finance Manager Anchalee Limkhamduang Senior Accountant Maneeya Kanthongdang Administrator Yaovaluck Srisermsri Accountant Manita Bangmoung

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

Contributor Kathy MacLeod Interns Alisha Pawa, Avash Shrestha, Kuang Ye Marn, Haroon Ahmad, Wipawan Witayathawornwong Cover by Wipawan Witayathawornwong

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

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

A checklist of BK Magazine’s most important discoveries this week More international live bands are heading our way Two pieces of good news for indie lovers this week. First up, Aussie rockers The Temper Trap, best known for their hit “Sweet Disposition” from the 500 Days of Summer soundtrack, will play at GMM Live House on Mar 8. Also, thanks to a cryptic Facebook post by gig organizers Have You Heard?, we can say British electro soul duo Honne are all but confirmed to play here on Mar 7.

We’re getting a week dedicated to gin & tonic The worldwide annual gin event by East Imperial, Gin Jubilee, is heading to Bangkok for the first time, or Asia for the first time, actually. Bangkok is just one of the cities (along with Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Phnom Penh and Singapore) that will welcome this five-day celebration of the G&T. Take part by heading to Quaint on Sukhumvit Soi 61 from Jan 31-Feb 4, where 20 Bangkok bars will be doing their thing.

Milk Pailin has left Vesper Vesper’s head bartender, Milk Pailin, had her last day behind the Soi Convent bar on Jan 19. That’s right, she quit. We don’t know where she’s going—“we wish we could tell you more” is the only answer we got when we asked at Vesper—but can reveal that Vesper’s boss, Choti Leenutaphong, is working on a new project. Or might she open her own bar, finally? Milk was crowned best bartender in SEA by World Class in 2016.

Bangkok’s Pride Parade has been postponed Last week, LGBT rights group Out BKK announced it would host Bangkok’s first pride week in 11 years. Though originally slated for May 15-20, organizers have since decided to push it back to a date in November out of respect for the one-year mourning period. If the reaction to the news on Facebook is anything to go by, it’s going to be massive. We can’t wait.

Phuket’s new logo has been revealed More details on the Phuket rebrand: it’s all being driven by the Phuket Hotels Association, founded by “Father of Phuket Tourism” Wichit Na-Ranong, which has hired Bangkok-based creative agency QUO to give the island a logo. This is good for QUO because they get to play at being Winkreative, and good for the Phuket Hotels Association because they get to act like a government rebranding its country. And the results give us newfound respect for the TAT, which sadly, doesn’t appear to be involved.

BK “Asia City Living” Magazine is edited by Andrew Hiransomboon and published 51 times a year, every Friday of each month by Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Copyright ©2016 Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. The titles “BK Magazine,” “BK ‘Asia City Living’ Magazine” and their associated logos or devices, and the content of BK “Asia City Living” Magazine are the property of Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited. Article reprints are available for B50 each. The magazine may not be distributed without the express written consent of Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Contact the Advertising Department for ad rates and specifications. All advertising must comply with the Publisher’s terms of business, copies of which are available upon request. Printed by Comform Co.,Ltd. 212 Moo 13 Krungthepkreetha Rd., Saphansoong, Bangkok 10250

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upfront HOT OR NOT

Hot: Old-school Chinatown

Not: Hipster Chinatown

Michal Dokoupi

We went round Chinatown last week asking old dudes in wifebeaters their favorite places to eat (see page 8). Answers ranged from goose meat in gravy to pork shoulder in gravy to noodles in gravy, with the occasional deep-fried pancake in between. No one mentioned the sandwiches at 2nd Yard or crepes at FooJohn. Strange.

Hot: Ratchatewi

Not: Khao San

For the kind of sandwich one eats after a bucket of fake vodka and Redbull, you no longer need to trek out to Khao San. Airbnb has led to the Ratchatewi neighborhood’s transformation into a forest of shophouses-turned-hipser-hostels. And all these young farang need to be fed. Hence the Panini Mafia truck’s preferred spot, behind Asia Hotel. There goes the neighborhood.

Hot: UberEats

Not: FoodPanda

The taxi-baiting app has finally launched its food delivery service in Bangkok, much to the dismay of existing players thanks to a competition-beating promised delivery time of under 30 minutes. Swiftly after the news broke, FoodPanda was on the phone telling us they now guarantee delivery in under 40 minutes. So we tested it out. Fifty-two minutes later, our chicken noodles arrived.

Hot: Jet Engines

Not: Wastewater management

Rolls-Royce has admitted it paid bribes totalling B1.28 billion to Thai Airways employees and state officials throughout the ‘90s and early ‘00s. Task forces have been established to discover just how deep the rot goes by both THAI and the government. If the Klong Dan’s recent reappearance in the news is anything to go by, we can expect their work to still be unfinished 20 or so years from now.

THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

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INTERVIEW One of the most iconic professions on Yaowarat Road is mung ming, the ancient Chinese beauty service that uses only a tiny thread to remove facial hair, which you’ll find practiced along Charoenkrung Road near Wat Mongkhon Kamalawas. Pornthirat Wattanakitikarn, 62, was one of the first mung ming masters here, though she and other stallholders in Yaowarat face eviction from the street as part of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s ongoing plans to reorder the city’s footpaths. Here, she reveals her beauty secrets and explains how Yaowarat is changing.

How long have you been doing this job?

I was actually a seamstress on Charoenkrung Road until I was 30 years old. I decided to specialize in mung ming in the 1980s because I was getting fewer sewing jobs as a result of cheaper fabrics—people didn’t need to fix their old clothes anymore. At the same time, an ama [grandmother] had broken her arm and couldn’t continue her mung ming work. Instead, I started doing it as I’d picked up some skills from people I knew. Then bang! Everyone loved my service, especially old ladies who are still fond of this beauty method. I then met with a friend of mine, Chaithawat, who started courses with me teaching mung ming to others.

For people who are new to mung ming, explain what it involves.

It’s a beauty method that Chinese ladies have used since ancient times.

We use a single thread to pluck hair from the face. It’s about physiognomy as well. In mung ming, it’s believed facial hair is like cobwebs on the face that need to be cleared away. There are also other facts about its health

benefits, like that the thread moving around your face actually helps boost the flow of blood to those areas.

Doing mung ming also accentuates your facial features by sculpting the hair around your forehead into a heart shape. Some customers can be really challenging.

With competition from modern beauty services, has business for you slowed down?

There are fewer traditional Chinese customers these days. Rich people go to use other beauty services such as laser treatment at clinics. But we still get old customers who love this method as well as walk-in customers who just want to try mung ming.

Do you worry about the number of people offering mung ming?

I don’t really worry about the competition, but I do worry that they will offer low-quality services that will give customers a bad perception of the practice.

How is your routine?

I work here from 10am-5pm, Tuesday to Sunday, with all four of my

sisters. We normally charge B120 but hike the service up to B200 if the customer has a hairy face. On my busiest days I can get 10 customers.

What is Yaowarat like compared to the old days?

Woah, it was much more lively in the old days. Shops stayed open from morning till late and people walked around all the time. Most of them were rich, too. I often found money on the footpath. I even found gold! Nowadays, Yaowarat is quiet and there are fewer rich people around. The construction of the MRT has also made traffic really hectic.

How do you feel about the BMA’s efforts to clear up Yaowarat’s footpaths?

Yes, we’re all worried about this. I don’t know what’s going to happen.

Have you ever faced tough times here before?

Yes, during the 2014 protests.

People were afraid to go out so we didn’t have customers.

We had to rely on little savings.

Interview by Monruedee Jansuttipan

by Kathy MacLeod kathymacleod.blogspot.com

BK Magazine Friday, January 27, 2017

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THE PLOENCHIT LIFE BANGKOK’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS ADDRESS KEEPS RAISING THE BAR FOR THE UPPER STRATA OF LIFESTYLE OFFERINGS.

Lumpini Park

Ploenchit is considered the most prestigious address in the city for good reason. Within the past couple years, the opening of Central Embassy and the launch of Noble Ploenchit have redefined luxury standards in Bangkok. Fittingly, the neighborhood’s very name means to reach a state of bliss and to be totally in the moment.

Indeed, life here is on a whole other level. Ploenchit Road stretches the two kilometers from the beginning of Sukhumvit to Siam, but the area we really understand as Ploenchit sits at the top of Wireless Road, right around BTS Phloen Chit station, where the ritzy neighborhood announces itself with shimmering glass skyscrapers and sky bridges. You can brunch with sweeping views of the British Embassy’s leafy grounds at Siwilai, sip tea at the super-luxe Park Hyatt Hotel, and pop into the flagship stores of Ralph Lauren, Tom Ford or Christian Louboutin. But for all the cocktail bars and designer boutiques, a residential heart still beats strongly.

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ADVERTORIAL

The High Life Exclusivity has always been Ploenchit’s mantra, but it’s not until recently, with the arrival of high-fashion mecca Central Embassy and the striking, multi-use Park Ventures, that it really began asserting itself as the fashionable place to live.

At Park Ventures, AAA-grade corporate offices rub shoulders with the uniquely Japanese Okura Prestige Hotel. Its Yamazato restaurant traces its lineage to the Okura’s Michelin-star venue in Amsterdam, making it one of the best places in Bangkok for a Tokyo fine-dining experience.

Across the street at Central Embassy, Prada, Jil Sander and Margiela are the cornerstones of a Ploenchit resident’s weekly shop, while lunch comes courtesy of Joel Robuchon or 12-course omakase sushi sets at Sushi Hinata. Chickalicious is still the best place to get a three-course dessert-only meal, which you can top off with a bit of culture at the always-inspired Serindia Gallery and its bookstore.

Veteran shoppers love Central Chidlom, which connects with Central Embassy, just as much. The petite department store offers a compact and curated selection of the latest fashion, allowing you to quickly refresh your wardrobe without walking for miles.

At the opposite end of Central Embassy, the dramatic Park Hyatt Hotel is about to open, a striking free-form building clad in metal. It will be joining the other five-star hotels in the area, such as the aforementioned Okura Prestige, as well as the Plaza Athenee, Renaissance and Conrad.

But between the brand name stores and white-suited doormen, neighborhood appeal remains. Take an early morning stroll down Soi Ruamrudee and you’ll see chicly dressed residents walking their designer dogs or collecting breakfast pastries from Cafe Tartine. Fancy some Italian flavors? Pizza Massilia offers Neapolitan-style pizza with a touch of Marseille, while Lenzi serves up some of the best cold cuts in town. Come the evening, low-key nightlife makes itself felt: terrace wine bars (Islero), craft cocktail specialists (Hyde & Seek) and tucked-away whiskey dens (The Balvenie Lounge) cater to a sophisticated, upmarket crowd.

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Ready to Move In The chance for developers to acquire prime Ploenchit real estate is over, meaning new property is incredibly rare to find. Located right beside BTS Phloen Chit, Noble Ploenchit is a dramatic skyscraper with cutting-edge design that overlooks the surrounding embassy compounds of Switzerland and the UK, and stands shoulder to shoulder with nearby luxury hotels (Park Hyatt, Okura Prestige).

Like other landmarks in the area such as Central Embassy and Park Ventures, Noble Ploenchit is one of the few properties able to offer direct access to the skywalk leading to the BTS. This extraordinary architectural vision is also matched in terms of design. Occupying a sprawling four rai (6,400 sq meters), this oasis in the heart of Ploenchit fulfills Noble Development’s promise to add character and value to any neighborhood it enters. Outdoor common areas, lawns and pools are also dispersed across the building’s many floors, offering a superlatively balanced lifestyle for its residents. Interiors, which can be reached via private elevators, are equally lavish and painstakingly designed. Exclusive, fully-furnished condos start from 12.9 MB.

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cover story

Local Knowledge The people of Yaowarat tell us the food stalls they really love.

By Monruedee Jansuttipan

BY DAY 1. Lao Tang The heavenly braised goose meat at this hole-in-the-wall eatery is slowly cooked with Chinese herbs for more than one hour. The outcome is tender-but-springy meat that goes perfectly with hot steamed ice. They also offer bitter gourd soup, pork ribs soup and algae soup. Warning: goose sells out within 3-4 hours. Prices start from B120. If you’re more of a night owl, the duck noodles at the same spot are another neighborhood favorite that sells out equally quickly. Prices start from B50.

467/1 Yaowarat Rd., 02-221-6070. Open daily 8:30am-13pm

2. Kong Prasert The residents we spoke to called this their favorite place to seek out moo krob (crispy roasted pork belly) and moo daeng (roasted pork). Their crispy pork contains thin layers of fat while the skin turns into a thick crust which tastes beautiful with the signature curry powder-spiked gravy. Prices are also surprisingly cheap—they still serve their dishes at B30. Hot soups here are also wonderful.

Try the braised sheep stew and sukiyaki broth. We also recommend the fried sukiyaki thanks to their delicious pickled bean curd sauce, pickled garlic and chili.

304-6 Charoenkrung Soi 27 (near Gate of Chinatown, Odien Circle), 02-238-3587. Open Tue-Sun 10am-6pm

3. Jay Fai Som Cheng Juice This small orange juice shop has been around for nearly 40 years thanks to its wonderfully fresh juice made from sweet som cheng oranges. Apart from simple bottles of 100-percent orange juice (B60-100), they also squeeze pomegranate juice.

459 Yaowarat Rd., 080-267-1456. Open daily 5pm-midnight

4. Tai Seng Though a new face in the area (it used to be over at Lang Suan), Tai Seng restaurant has already won local Chinese families' hearts for its killer dim sum dishes, from shrimp dumplings (B50) and guay tiew lord moo dang (noodle with roasted pork, B60) to Peking duck (B900). Other Chinese staples on offer include steamed fish in soy sauce (market price), noodles in seafood gravy (B200) and stir-fried scallops with XO sauce (B350).

Chalermburi junction, 121-9 Yaowarat Rd., 02-636-5855. Open daily 11am-2:30pm, 5-10:30pm

5. Kanom Jeep Wat Mon (Jek Sia) In business for 55 years, Chinatown resident Jek Sia’s pushcart is always surrounded by locals and outsiders who know where to find the best pork dumplings. He took the recipe from his Taochew ancestors, using ingredients such as pork, shiitake mushrooms and sesame oil. Starts at B15 for five pieces.

Mongkol Samakom Temple (Wat Mon), Plang Nam Rd, 02-223-7344, 081-726-0777. Open 11am-6pm.

8

Kui Chai Hor Chia Jay Noi

Kong Prasert

6.Kui Chai Hor Chia Jay Noi The best place in town for kui chai (fried pancake with chives).

They fry their delicious pancake batter at the perfect temperature until it's slightly crispy outside and tender within, then serve it with a tangy and spicy black soy sauce. Three pieces cost B27.

Charoenkrung Rd. (opposite Phadung Dao Rd.), 081-721-2642. Open Tue-Sun 1-7pm

7. Hoi Tod Texas Go here if you want to sample an old-school version of hoy tod (oyster omelet). Hoi Tod Texas fries its flour-and-water mix till the texture becomes crispy outside and jelly-like in the center before adding the egg. They also give you the choice between mussels and oysters, with prices starting from B60.

Chiang Pu Chestnut

Phadung Dao Rd. (Soi Texas Suki), 02-222-6317. Open daily 11am-8pm

8. Jay Daeng Gium Chai Famous for their tangy pickle salad, this shop also has a reputation for its full-flavoured hoi jor (fried crab/shrimp meat rolls, B75/ B120) packed with chunks of meat. The shrimp balls (B450 per kilogram) are also worth ordering to take home—and don’t forget to grab some of the pickled vegetables, too. (B160 per kilogram).

222 Yaowarat Soi 6, 083-844-3388, 081-926-8899, 02-225-1960. Open daily 6am-6pm

9. Chiang Pu Chestnut There are so many chestnut shops around Yaowarat that it’s hard to stand out. Chiang Pu Chestnut wins the local vote as it’s believed to be the very first of its kind in the neighborhood. They still use chestnuts sourced from China, which they roast in a mixture of sand and sugar to help moisturize and wax the crust. Prices start from B35 per 100 grams.

293/1 Yaowarat Rd. (in front of Yaowarat Soi 6), 02-222-2219, 089445-4544. Open 24 hrs

Kanom Jeep Wat Mon (Jek Sia)

BK Magazine Friday, January 27, 2017

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cover story

BY NIGHT

13. Xia Hu Chalam

10. Kha Moo Siri Rama Relocated from its old spot near Siri Rama cinema (now being reconstructed as a mall) on Charoenkrung Road, Kha Moo Siri Rama is known among Yaowarat people for its not-too-sweet braised pork knuckle under a thin layer of jelly (a result of the two-hour cooking time). Other highlights include the flavorful one-hour-stewed entrails and fried tofu soaked in the kha moo broth. Prices start from B35.

Trok Sai, Padungdao Rd. (Soi Texas Suki). Open daily 4-9pm

11. Nong Amm Yaowarat people turn their back on the massive queues at legendary bread stall Kanom Pang Jao Aroi Ded Yaowarat, preferring to sit and chat at this little bread and milk station. Open for 30 years, this precursor to the food truck offers grilled bread with sangkaya (pandan custard), butter and condensed milk along with other milky drinks such as cha yen (iced tea with milk) and hot fresh milk.

Padung Dao Rd. (Soi Texas Suki), 086-324-1711, 081-372-8861. Open Tue-Sun 6:30-10pm

12. Guay Jub Lek (Auan) Don’t be surprised to see this small push cart in front of Yaowarat's old market (talad gao), surrounded by a crowd all after its signature guay jub (rice noodles in five-spice broth).

Its fans love it for the perfect crispy pork, clean-tasting entrails, and peppery soup. Chairs here are only for those with enough patience.

Yaowarat Soi 11 (Soi Isaranuphap). Open Tue-Sun 6pm-1am

This small stall with its signature yellow sign is reputed for its fish maw, whether as a soup or stir-fried. The fried rice and stir-fried Hong Kong noodles with crab meat are equally essential eats, the latter featuring crab meat transported directly from Surat Thani. What’s more, prices start at just B70.

Yaowarat Rd. (in front of Haki Lim Jing Hieng and Chinamart shop), 096-915-6659. Open Tue-Sun 7pm-1am

14. Khao Tom Jay Suay Rumoured to have been around since before World War II (hence its nickname Khao Tom 100 Years), this rice soup place is run by the third and fourth generations of a Chinese family. Their ancestors’ recipes include kiam buay moo sup (chopped pork in clear soup with Chinese plum, B50), moo daeng tod (fried roasted pork, B60) and ped palo tod see ew (stir-fried braised duck with soy sauce, B120). But what Yaowarat people most recommended here is smoked duck (B150 per piece)—bad news is it sells out quickly, so best make it here by 4pm, when it opens.

BK Asks What’s your favorite restaurant in Chinatown?

Plang Nam Junction (Phab Phla Chai Rd.), 02-223-9592. Open daily 4pm-3am

15. Rad Na Texas This old-school rad na (noodles in gravy) place only stays open for three hours a day and always draws customers who buy their food to take away. The patriarch of the family still cooks the rad na over a strong flame that delivers exactly the right charred aroma into the noodles. The pork is also deliciously tender thanks to the six hours it spends marinating.

Prices run from B35-40.

“I recommend Tai Seng Restaurant. Before they moved here, I would go to Grand China Restaurant whenever we had a big family gathering. Now I like Tai Seng. I love their dim sum, fruit salad, stuffed duck and Peking duck.”

PANNEE LEELANUKUL, 62, OWNER OF JAY DAENG GIUM CHAI See No.4

Phadung Dao Rd. (Soi Texas Suki), 089-882-9566. Open Fri-Wed 5-9pm

16. Porn Lamai This street-food stall drew international attention when Hell’s Kitchen star Gordon Ramsay visited. Its top dishes are rad na phu khao fai (gravy noodles cooked on a volcanic hotplate), sukiyaki, taro kua (stir-fried fish snacks) and taro kua kee mao (crispy stir-fried fish snacks). Dishes cost from B60-100.

Plang Nam Rd., 099-249-5414. Open Tue-Sun 6pm-2am

17. Bua Loy Klom kleaw

by Mae Koew Open for only a year, this small kiosk has already won locals’ hearts for its richly flavoured bua loy (dumplings in coconut milk) made from taro and pumpkin and served with syrupy monkey apple, gingko and lotus roots as well as salted egg and oozy duck egg yolk. The owners also just added a new hot-pot portion big enough to share among four. Prices from B40.

“If you love egg noodles, I recommend Aung Egg Noodle in front of 7-Eleven at Phadung Dao Road. They serve excellent shrimp dumplings and aromatic roasted pork.”

KORKIAT JIENJARAS, 36, OWNER OF XIA HU CHALAM See no.22

Yaowarat Rd. (in front of Yaowarat Soi 4), 085-933-6664, 080-5950556. Open daily 8pm-1am

Kha Moo Siri Rama

18. Khao Tom Kraduk Moo Though it doesn’t even have a proper name (referred to only by its signature dish of rice boiled with pork bones), this place has been serving the people of Yaowarat for 40 years. By the time it opens (7:15pm sharp), you’ll already find people sitting at the tables and waiting to place their orders. Its success lies in the fact that the rice is cooked in a stove oven for the greater fragrance caused by longer time on the heat. Try their boiled rice with soft bones and egg. Prices start from B40.

Charoenkrung Rd. (opposite Wat Mangkorn), 089-682-0016. Open Tue-Sun 7:15pm-1am

19.Khao Kaeng Chor Chang This might not be Chinatown’s most-famous khao gaeng (curry rice stand)—that would be Khao Kaeng Jek Pui, aka musical chairs khao kaeng—but its pork and beef curries are just as reliable. And here, you even get to eat at tables. Prices start from B40.

“I love Porn Lamai. Every dish they prepare is good thanks to quality ingredients such as large shrimp. I recommend you try their rad na phu khao fai (stir-fried noodles in gravy) and taro pad kee mao (spicy stir-fried fish snacks), both of which they serve on hot plates. You need to eat it quickly!”

BODIN MONGKOLSUEBWONG, 36, OWNER OF JAY FAI SOM CHENG JUICE See no.16

Chaoroenkrung Rd. (In front of Wat Monkornkamalawat), 087-3228920. Open Tue-Sun 6-10pm

Bua Loy Klomkleaw by Mae Koew

BK Magazine Friday, January 27, 2017

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cover story 20. Congee at Krung Thai Bank

BK Asks

This beloved push cart serves a simply delicious joke (congee) in a pork-bone broth. The pork balls burst with sesame oil fragrance, while the entrails get washed in salt prior to boiling to get rid of any unpleasant odor. We suggest you order your bowl with an oozy thousand-year egg (B40) sourced from one of the best shops in Yaowarat’s old market.

What’s your favorite restaurant in Chinatown?

Phadung Dao Rd. (next to Krungthai Bank), 084-165-2158. Open TueSun 6pm-midnight

21. Nai Weng This pork blood soup stall is reputed for the freshness of its ingredients. The soup is so clear it looks like a consomme yet still manages to deliver a powerfully balanced flavor of pork bone. The perfectly prepared entrails also have one of the best textures in town. Prices start from B50.

Congee at Krung Thai Bank

Plang Nam Rd., 084-755-8027. Open Tue-Sun 5pm-2am

“I love to eat tom lued moo [pork blood in clear soup] at Nai Weng stall on Plaeng Nam Road. I like how they get rid of any unpleasant odor in the preparation, as well as the sweet pork bone broth.

22. Nai Aung Bamee Moodaeng

NAMJIT SAETANG, 49, OWNER OF NONG AMM MILK AND BREAD See No.21

This noodle shop’s reputation rests with its dumplings (from B40)—packed with whole chunks of shrimp and diced pork. Be warned: they can disappear from their usual spot quite spontaneously, so go with crossed fingers.

Yaowarat Rd. (in front of 7-eleven at Phadung Dao Rd.). Open Tue-Sun 7-10pm

23. Guay Tiew Luk Chin Krae

Guay Tiew Luk Chin Krae

It’s easy to overlook the ordinary-looking sign of this shop specializing in yen ta fo (pink soybean noodle soup). Their simple but refreshing clear noodle soup brims with all sorts of different fish balls, including luk chin krae (Hakka-style fish ball).

Yaowarat Rd., (in front of Lieng Seng Heng gold shop). Open Tue-Sun 7pm-midnight

24. Guay Tiew Lord Pornchai

“I recommend a goose place called Lao Tang. It’s very good, with a broth that’s not too salty and perfect with a bowl of rice.

Easy to spot thanks to its red sign, this guay tiew lord (dried noodle with black soy sauce) shop comes highly recommended. The ingredients used here range from braised pork and squid to tofu, shiitake mushroom and dried shrimp.

PUI PUNTURANAN, 34, OWNER OF HOY TOD TEXAS See No.1

Guay Tiew Lord Pornchai

Yaowarat Rd. (near Lao Li shark fin restaurant), 081-903-9151. Open Tue-Sun 7pm-midnight

chinatown taste trek 14 19

6 Charoenkrung Rd.

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11

Rd. Tha i-Ch ina

Phadung Dao Rd.

Plaeng Nam Rd.

24 1 3

21 Yaowarat Rd.

13 20

22

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Mit tap hap

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Soi Cha roe nkr ung 27

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10

Phadung Dao Rd.

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Plaeng Nam Rd.

8

Itsara Nuphab Rd.

Mangkorn Rd.

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escapes countries. Along with the move, it has also launched a new route from Bangkok to Zhengzhou, the capital of Henan province and home to famous attractions such as the Shaolin Temple (Dengfeng), Longmen Grottoes and Binyang Cave. Flights run daily starting from B11,065 for the round trip. Thai Smile is also set to open a route between Bangkok and the natural paradise of Kota Kinabalu on Borneo Island. The flight starts this Mar 1 at B5,460 return.

ESCAPE ROUTES

By Monruedee Jansuttipan

PHUKET

SAMUI

Secret Retreat After last year’s introduction of a new rum bar, CocoRum, Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui (077-243000, www.fourseasons.com/kohsamui) has now unveiled the new Secret Garden Spa. Here, it’s all about treatments that make use of herbs and ingredients grown in the hotel’s garden. Coconut plays a big part, like in the Kala Coconut massage, which uses pure warm coconut oil to ease tension and aching muscles (B6,100), while the Secret Garden Scrub (B6,100) blends coconut oil with home-grown herbs to help recharge your immune system. For Valentine’s Day, the Siam Lovers treatment (B28,000) begins with a four-hand massage before a fragrant rose bath in one of the spa’s alfresco foliage-fringed tubs. Room rates start at B38,000 for a one-bedroom pool villa.

JAPAN

New Hideaway

Cherry Picker

Patong might be a concrete jungle, but AccorHotels group has managed to find a stunningly green plot for the new Avista Hideaway Phuket Patong MGallery by Sofitel (076-681-681, www.avista-hideaway-phuket- patong.com). Located on the hillside at the southern end of Patong Beach, the resort boasts clean lines with a luxurious tropical edge, the 150 guestrooms coming with rich local woods and natural stones. Three saltwater filtration system swimming pools are split over different levels, while food and drink ranges from Sizzle steakhouse and Vista all-day dining to the Rendez-Vue Rooftop cocktail and tapas bar. Room rates range from B8,546 to B22,790 for the executive suite with private pool.

When well-heeled travelers in-the-know want to catch Tokyo’s cherry blossom season, they stay at the Palace Hotel Tokyo (en.palacehoteltokyo.com), whose rooms and suites come with incredible views of the Imperial Palace Garden. This year, the hotel’s two-night Blossoming Tokyo package includes a three-hour, limousine tour of the city’s best blossom sites, as well as a sakura season Hanami bento box lunch tasting for two. Back at the hotel bar, you’ll get to imbibe a bottle of the hotel’s signature 1-1-1 sake by Hakkaisan, produced exclusively for Palace Hotel Tokyo—you’ll even get to take home a tin sake cup crafted by the revered Nousaku house, which employs centuries-old metal melding techniques. The two-night package starts at JPY 212,000 (B65,321) for a deluxe room with balcony, available from Mar 1-May 31. For an additional charge, go one step further and have the hotel arrange for you a photoshoot among the blooms in a traditional kimono, flower arrangement (ikebana) and sakura mochi-making session. If the blossom season is gone by the time you arrive, you can tailor your tour to anywhere in Tokyo from shopping in Ginza to art and architectural exploration in Omotesando and Aoyama.

AIRLINES

Moving On After operating at Don Mueang International for four years, Thai Smile Airways (www.thaismileair.com) has now moved all its flights to Suvarnabhumi International Airport, the same base as its big sister Thai Airways. It’s part of a plan to expand its international routes which a focus on India, China and ASEAN

BK Magazine Friday, January 27, 2017

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avenue

GO-KARTING

Start Your Engines Thailand’s first electric go-kart circuit has opened by the lake in Muangthong Thani. The B600-million Impact Speed Park is home to 30 Sodi RTX electric karts imported from France that race along an 800-meter track whose route will be changed regularly. Run on eco-friendly electric batteries, the karts are capable of reaching a maximum speed of 60km/h, while the racetrack is surrounded by Tecpro polyethylene barriers, lightweight structures which feature internal webbing to better absorb impact. Until the end of January, adults are B455 per eight-minute session and kids 7-14 years B365 (rising to B650 and B420, respectively). Do note, an additional B100 one-year membership is also required. Impact Lakeside, Popular 4 Rd., Nonthaburi, 02-055-8900. Open MonFri 4pm-12am; Sat-Sun 12pm-12am. www.impactspeedpark.com

GYM

FASHION

SPA

Custom Fitness

Star Attraction

Forever Young

Phra Khanong’s new personal training studio comes from one of the biggest fitness personalities in Bangkok, Henrik Olofsson.

The Swedish trainer won Fittest Man in Thailand three years in a row from 2014-16 at the regional Crossfit Games and is also a director of Fitcorp Asia. At his new Haus No. 3 fitness studio, you get tailor-made training programs in a gym that looks like an Ekkamai coffee shop, all white-washed walls, soft wood accents and dangling bulbs amid the green and shady Naiipa Complex. Sessions don’t come cheap. A consultation (B1,800) is required prior to the private training, which costs from B2,1902,950 per visit. Or you can get semi-private training for B1,3901,950. Naiipa Art Complex, Sukhumvit Soi 46, 02-136-7030, Open by appointment. BTS Phra Khanong. www.hausno3.com

Italian denim brand Diesel’s new spring/summer 2017 preview collection, Star Power, has arrived in Bangkok. One-shouldered denim prom dresses, bold star jean-patched T-shirts and rainbow turtleneck knit tops combine streetwear and utility with a funky, Latino influence. More details are emphasized in matchstick print shirts that speak of Latino cigar culture as well as a sun-bleached feel on dungaree dresses. Accessories still play a big part. Diesel’s signature Le Zipper bag comes in saddlebag and backpack styles, while the Zip Round footwear is re-modeled into women’s high-heeled boots and men’s dopper lace-ups. Prices start from B7,500. G/F, Siam Discovery, Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-0197. Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS National Stadium/Siam www.diesel.com

Silom’s new Infinity Spa looks like a stylish laboratory with its raw concrete floor, mint green walls, yellow ceiling and industrial furnishings—all courtesy of a team from Chulalongkorn’s Faculty of Architecture. The spa programs run from head to toe (including mani-pedis) and use both Thalgo and homemade products. Relax-atherapy (B1,000/hr) is a pocket-friendly, 60-minute massage featuring home-made oil, while Infinity Jetlag Facial (B2,900) is a Thalgo treatment that claims to revive post-longhaul-flight skin. For nails, a manicure using OPI products starts from just B500. Currently, the spa has a promotion on its threehour detox program with scrubbing, massage and facial at only B3,100 (normal price B3,900). Sun Square, 1037/1 Silom Soi 21, 02-237-8588. Open Mon- Sun 10am-10pm www.infinityspa.com

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avenue

Sathorn Rising The Silom-Narathiwat intersection’s unexpected rise as a luxury lifestyle destination.

M Silom

House on Sathorn

L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon

Morimoto

A couple years back, the opening of W Bangkok and L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon created a new epicenter of cool in Bangkok.

Move over Thonglor, Ploenchit and lower Silom (Soi Sala Daeng, Soi Convent); Bangkok’s epicenter of luxe living was suddenly focused on where Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Road intersects with Silom and Sathorn roads. Here are some openings that made the neighborhood, along with recent arrivals that prove the area is still a magnet for high-flying lifestyle offerings.

The fine dining can’t be beat No other neighborhood has such a high concentration of top restaurants. Existing favorites like L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon, House on Sathorn and Eat Me are still going strong, topping both local and international charts. But there are also new openings and refurbs showing there’s no slowing down for the Narathiwat-Silom-Sathorn zone. Morimoto opened recently at MahaNakhon with a creative menu of fusion Japanese delicacies. And Le Du, a fixture in the Top Tables Top 10 and tipped for Asia’s 50 Best, is opening an elegantly-decorated second floor befitting its chef ’s reputation.

Healthy living is a notch above Some of the best gyms are here. One of only five Virgin Active branches sits in Empire Tower, offering rock climbing, highaltitude training and sleep pods for harried executives. But there are also much more personalized offerings. Recent opening OMMO offers DJ-quality beats for a music-driven workout. For hardcore fitness addicts, one of the best CrossFit gyms is here, too­­—if you can take it. CrossFit Ten500 offers drill instructor type routines that are just about as intense as it gets.

A discerning nightlife scene At night, most business districts tend to go quiet. Not this one.

Sip some wine on the balcony at Scarlett (Pullman Bangkok Hotel G), indulge in a glass of Champagne amid the rococo decor of the House on Sathorn (next to W Bangkok), or sample some of the best cocktails in town from the celebrity mixologists at UNCLE, on Sathorn Soi 12. On top of these established destinations, the past year has seen the arrival of

Bunker, which despite being a restaurant also has an amazing ground floor bar, and the equally talented crew at Mikys Cocktail Bar. Nor is nightlife exclusively limited to drinking: the Galleries Night event will return this February with many a stop in upper Silom’s art spaces, while intimate live music options abound in the area.

Major financial institutions are here Nothing helps support a thriving dining and nightlife scene like financiers on expense accounts. The Chong Nonsi intersection is a major business district with four soaring skyscrapers at each of its corners, packed with banks, insurance companies and audit firms: Empire Tower, Sathorn Square, Bangkok City Tower and Sathorn Nakhon. UOB, AIA, and Standard Chartered also have their own buildings here so do expect to rub shoulders with a banker next time you’re sipping a cocktail in the neighborhood.

Scarlett

Luxe residences and hotels have popped up Befitting the lifestyle offerings in the area, ultra high-end condos have landed on the scene. MahaNakhon’s Ritz-Carlton residences are charted to open this year. And M Silom is already ready to move in, the dramatic skyscraper providing an ideal launch point to visit all of Chong Nonsi’s luxe offerings.

M Silom M Silom is a 53-story pet-friendly condominium, dominating the skyline of the central business district. Each unit enjoys sweeping views of the city. With BTS Chong Nonsi a block away, M Silom is a condo ideally suited for those who work hard and play hard. Features include a sky lounge on the 52nd floor complete with bar and karaoke room and an

Brought to you by M Silom by Major Development PCL

Major Delvelopement Jan20_674.indd 13

infinity pool on the 34th floor. The meditation garden on the 39th floor is the perfect spot to turn off your phone and reconnect with yourself. The overall design is a cutting-edge play on contemplative space, befitting the neighborhood’s many luxurious offerings.

To find out more, visit www.mde.co.th or call 02-116-1111

M Silom

BK Magazine Friday, January 27, 2017

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avenue FASHION

Brand Appeal

Five international fashion labels we need in Bangkok… and how to get the look without them. By Kasidit Srivilai

Zadig & Voltaire

Hollister

COS

J.Crew

Margaret Howell

This French brand from the heir to the Lacoste founder represents a Parisian rock and bohemian sensibility—torn T-shirts, glittery sequin jackets and studded ankle boots. Sadly, you’ll need to take a three-hour flight to Hong Kong if you want to visit the nearest boutique.

Want to buy a new pair of skinny jeans while ogling hot salespeople in muscle fit T-shirts? In most Asian cities, you’d go to Hollister. But not in Bangkok, where the California-born casual-wear brand has yet to appear.

Heaven for lovers of minimalist chic.

This progeny of Swedish giant H&M offers a clean-cut, subtly designed wardrobe with a meticulous approach to fabric at an affordable price, like straight selvedge jeans and trendy wrap-over leather sneakers for under B4,000.

Despite the brand’s recent string of reinventions and stagnant sales, we continue to long for its fabric-driven basics and quality workmanship at a reachable price point

The logo tote bag from this British designer has been a hit among Thai teens for years. But since the only store out of Europe is in Tokyo, we still have to get them from our friends when they go on holiday.

The Bangkok alternatives: Local label Soda deals in a similarly bohemian style. Women should check out the snake embroidered T-shirt (B2,900) and a hippie black blouse (B3,750). For guys, opt for 24:01's flap pocket blouson (B1,290).

Soda, 3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 rd., 02 -2514995 Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Siam. www.sodabkk.com

The Bangkok alternatives: Department store regular CC Double O takes big influence from the same kind of well-worn Americana style. Here, a pair of jeans will set you back B2,290.

Available at CC double O city-wide. Try 2/F Siam Center store, Rama 1 rd., 02-367-2000 ext 15 Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Siam. www.ccdoubleo.com

24:01 available at www.zalora.co.th

The Bangkok alternatives: Japan’s fast-fashion kingpin, Uniqlo, often takes serious cues from COS’s look of Scandinavian minimalism. Best of all, it’s affordable, with block color jackets starting from just B2,990.

Available at Uniqlo city-wide. Try 1/F Siam Paragon. Rama 1 rd., 02-610-7787 15 Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Siam. www. uniqlo.com/th

Jacket, Uniqlo, from B2,990

The Bangkok alternatives: Looking for men’s shirts of the finest quality?

Go grab a herringbone check shirt for B3,890 at JBB*. For womenswear with a playfully preppy edge, check out the sailor-style striped blouse at the online Pomelo.

JBB*, LL/F, Grand Hyatt Erawan, Rajdamri rd., Open Mon-Sat 11am-8pm. 02-2528786. BTS Chitlom. www.fb.com/JBB.

The Bangkok alternative: Danish furniture maker Hay has its own line of cotton totes for B1,290. Choose yours with either a basic logo or print design.

Hay, 3/F, Siam Discovery, Rama 1 rd. , 090915-9788. Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Siam/National Stadium. www.hay.dk

Pomelo, 02-105-407. www.pomelofashion.com

Long sleeve blouse, Pomelo, B890

Tote bag, Richard Woods for Hay, B1,290

Jeans, CC Double O, from B2,290

Autumn A blouse, Faux leather jacket, 24:01, from B1,290 Soda, B3,750

Bangkok’s Best New Stores for Guys

COTE&CIEL

#LIVE LIKE HOUND

PUR.SUIT

ROSEMAN CLUB

Known for its functional design, Cote&Ciel’s bags are equipped with compartments to ensure your tablets, laptops, smartphones and valuables are safe and secure—even Apple approves of them.

Greyhound’s latest is designed like a homey apartment: find the Greyhound collection displayed as a walk-in closet in the bedroom, ceramics from Cone No. 9 in the kitchen, and Erb beauty products in the bathroom.

At the follow-up to local menswear multi-label boutique Gin & Milk, you’ll find more formal designs like Oxford shirts, suits, tuxes and accessories.

Roseman Club is all about eyewear that’s handmade in Japan but not too pricey: B3,950 for the Jarvis Mahogany (classic, rectangular eyeglasses), or B4,850 for the Darwin Cloud with clip on.

3/F, Central Embassy, Phloen Chit Rd., 084-411-8840.

Open daily 10am-9:30pm. BTS Phleonchit. www. coteetciel.com

1/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-7894. Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Siam. www.greyhound.co.th

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M/F, Siam Discovery, Rama 1 Rd., Open daily 10am10pm. BTS National Stadium/Siam

68/2 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 081-444-2642. Open daily 11am-9pm. BTS Asoke/ MRT Sukhumvit.

BK Magazine Friday, January 27, 2017

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bites & blends

OMAKASE

No Fusion, No Fuss Opened in August last year, Morimoto Bangkok now offers an omakase sushi experience on Tue-Sun for both lunch (B4,000) and dinner (B6,000). Here, you leave your meal of 6-7 courses up to head sushi chef Tomoki Sasada (previously of Ginza Sushi Ichi), who rolls out Edomae-style sushi, made using three kinds of vinegar. On our last visit, we especially loved his cured mackerel and bruleed shrimp sponge cake. The sushi is preceded by delicate appetizers like a dish of deep-fried tiny sawagani crabs, put together with female snow crab meat, its eggs and vinegar jelly, and a plate of mini sashimi rolls with pickles and oh-so-tender grilled octopus. Dessert is back firmly in chef Morimoto’s trademark East-meetsWest territory, though, with options like strawberry tart and banana ice cream. 4/F, Mahanakorn Cube, 96 Narathiwat Rd., 02-060-9099. BTS Chong Nonsi

BUTCHER

BOOK

SERVICE

Local Goodness

Sweet Licks

Uber Good

Drawing on his 20 years of butchering experience, Thanabodee Ratchana started his own business a few years ago to help farmers in Northeastern Thailand distribute what he calls "Thai wagyu beef." Just recently, he opened his own butcher shop, Best Country Beef, where he dry-ages and retails meat with a marbling score from 2-3 (B2,150/kg for tenderloin), 4-5 (B3,760/kg for tenderloin) and 6-7 (B3,600/kg for T-bone). The meat is a crossbreed between Japanese or Australian wagyu and either Charolais, Brahman or Holstein cattle. Either buy it to take home or let them grill it for you at the upstairs U Grill yakiniku restaurant, where a 500g T-bone costs B3,200. Neighbour Centre, 343 Vacharaphol Rd. 02-791-9766. goo.gl/q5XImQ

Pastry mastermind Jason Licker (formerly head of the sweet kitchen at Ku De Ta Bangkok) has just launched his debut cookbook. Lickerland packs 56 recipes of his Asian-accented desserts, including the infamous chocolate fondant-inspired matcha tart, vanilla udon with strawberry consomme, and banana and dulce de leche harumaki, all complemented by photographs by Jason Lang. Inspired by chef Licker’s stints through Asian capitals like Shanghai, Macau and Hong Kong, his creations blend the continent’s vibrant flavors with classic French techniques. The book is now only available in Bangkok at Little Market (1056 Charoenkrung Soi 28, 061-558-7689) and online through www.jasonlicker.com. at B1,800

Prepare to get fatter, Bangkokians: UberEats is finally here.

Launched in 2014 and now in 57 cities around the world, this app by the American ride sharing service Uber delivers food straight to your door. The app covers more than 100 restaurants in Bangkok, from comforting street-food spots like Hai Som Tam Convent and Bundit Kim Kao Mun Gai to foodie favorites like Appia, Daniel Thaiger and Ippudo. The app highlights nearby restaurants that can provide delivery in under 30 minutes and gives you real-time updates about your order. At the moment, they deliver to Sathorn, Silom, Pathumwan, Phloen Chit, Nana, Asoke, Phrom Phong, Thonglor, Ekkamai and Chinatown, from 10am-10pm. Delivery is free (for now), and you can only pay for your order with credit or debit card. Available on iOS and Android, www.ubereats.com/bangkok BK Magazine Friday, January 27, 2017

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bites

Plaza Athenee

BITES

New Year Feasts The best Chinese dining deals to welcome the year of the rooster.

By Alisha Pawa and Natcha Sanguankiattichai

Peninsula

Shangri-La

Anantara Riverside

Le Méridien

Royal Orchid Sheraton

A Chinese brunch buffet (B2,888 including soft drinks or an extra B888 for alcohol) at Trader Vic’s on Jan 28-29.

A buffet lunch (B1,100) or dinner (B1,300) with additional Chinese delicacies at Latest Recipe on Jan 28- Feb 2.

A barbecue and seafood buffet dinner (B1,250) at Feast on Jan 28.

257/1-/3 Charoennakorn Rd., 02-476-0022

40/5 Surawong Rd., 02-232-8888

2 Charoenkrung Rd., 02-665-3056

Anantara Siam

Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20

Shangri-La

A Sunday brunch (B2,999) at Parichart Court on Jan 29.

A buffet lunch (B599) at Food Exchange on Jan 28.

155 Ratchadamri Rd., 02-126-8866.

19/9 Sukhumvit Soi 20, 02-009-4999

Chef Chow Wai Man’s “Prosperity” or “Longevity” sets (B25,888 for 10 people) at Shang Palace on Jan 27-30. Live guzheng music at Jan 27 dinner and Jan 28 lunch and dinner.

Avani Atrium

The Peninsula Bangkok

89 Soi Wat Suan Plu, 02-236-9952

A buffet dinner (B750) at Public on Jan 27-28.

Chef Jackie Ho’s “Fortune” set menu (B2,380), “Wealth” set menu (B2,880) or a la carte dishes at Mei Jiang on Jan 20-Feb 5.

The Sukosol

333 Charoennakorn Rd., 02-020-2888

A special a la carte menu at Lin-Fa on Jan 28-Feb 12 with dragon dance on Jan 28.

Plaza Athenee

477 Si Ayuthaya Rd., 02-247-0123

A six-course set menu (B2,800), eight-course family-sized meal (B19,000 for 10 people) and a la carte menu at Silk Road.

The Sukhothai

1880 New Petchaburi Rd., 02-718-2000

Banyan Tree A buffet brunch (B2,236 net) and dinner (B2,119 net) at Romsai on Jan 27-29; special a la carte items and all-you-can-eat dim sum lunch and dinner at Bai Yun on Jan 21-29.

21/100 Sathorn Rd., 02-679-1200

61 Wireless Rd., 02-650-8800

Grand Hyatt Erawan

Pullman Bangkok Grande Sukhumvit

An international buffet with special Chinese dishes at The Dining Room on Jan 23-Feb 12. Prices range from B1,490 for weekday lunch to B2,400 for Fri-Sat dinner and Sunday brunch.

A Chinese buffet brunch (B1,699 with soft drinks) including double-boiled dried scallop with Yunnan ham and shiitake mushroom soup, suckling pig and Peking duck at Atelier Restaurant on Jan 28.

494 Rajdamri Rd., 02-254-1234.

Holiday Inn Sukhumvit A buffet dinner (B899) with special Chinese dishes at Zeta Cafe on Jan 27-29.

1 Sukhumvit Soi 22, 02-683-4888

JW Marriott An all-you-can-eat dim sum lunch (B1,500) and a special set lunch or dinner (from B10,888 for 6 people) at Man Ho on Jan 28-30.

Man Ho, JW Marriott, 4 Soi 2, 02-656-7700.

30 Sukhumvit Soi 21, 02-204-4000

Radisson Blu Plaza Bangkok Special set menus (B888, B1,188 or B1,388 per person, minimum of 4 people) featuring Shanghai-style jellyfish salad with sesame oil and dim sum platter at China Table on Jan 23-29.

Drum performance and lion dance on Jan 28.

489 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-302-3333

Sunday brunch buffet (B3,388) featuring Cognac-flamed Peking duck at Colonnade on Jan 29 with traditional lion dance performance at noon.

13/3 Sathorn Rd., 02-344-8888

Swissotel Le Concorde Bangkok The “Dragon” set (B18,888 for 10 people) or “Swan” set (B10,888 for 10 people) featuring barbecued suckling pig, and a la carte dishes (B588-888) at Loong Foong Chinese Restaurant on Jan 28-Feb 5.

204 Ratchadapisek Rd., 02-6942222

Well Hotel A special menu including steamed tiger prawn in lime sauce and stir-fried noodles with crab meat (from B220 per dish) at Eat Well Cafe on Jan 25-31.

Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel

10 Sukhumvit Soi 20, 02-127-5995

An all-you-can-eat dim sum lunch (B1,588) or eight-course set menu (B9,888 for 6 people) at Fei Ya on Jan 28-29. Crispy lychee wood-roasted Peking duck also available (B1,500 per duck).

A buffet lunch (B1,990) and dinner (B2,490) at Seasonal Tastes on Jan 28.

Westin Grande 259 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-207-8000

518/8 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-125-5066

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1/20/17 5:01 PM

Don’t miss your chance to advertise in BK Magazine’s new guide, Better You. Our traffic analytics show healthy living is the hottest trend among the affluent, active Bangkokians who follow BK. The BK Better You guide shows readers the hottest workout trends, best gyms, healthy-eating shops and restaurants, and coolest workout gear, as well as top wellness retreats and the beauty clinics you can trust.

Find out more at bkmagazine.com/betteryou

Book your ad before 24 February 2017 Call: 02 624 9696 #601, 615, 620 Email: advertising@asia-city.co.th

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BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, January 27, 2017

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blends COCKTAILS

The Best Drinks We’ve Tried this Week

SIAM SIPPER (B280) AT BUNKER

Plantation 3 Stars white rum, pandan syrup, lime and aloe vera juice 118/2 Sathorn Soi 12, 092-563-9991. Open TueSun 6pm-1am

ON THE BAR

Dim the Lights

SALON PRIVE (B320) AT FREEBIRD

Homemade butter-infused vodka, gin and Cointreau chamomile 28 Sukhumvit Soi 47, 02-662-4936. Open daily 5:30pm-midnight

Sukhumvit Soi 33’s new cocktail bar, Dim Dim, is making China cool again.

By Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj The buzz: Just in time for Chinese New Year comes this tiny Chinese-themed bar that takes over from Bao & Buns next to the original Peppina pizzeria. While the setting is undeniably retro, the drinks are anything but old-fashioned.

The decor: The candlelit space exudes oriental cool through vintage Chinese tea boxes, rows of waving lucky cats and splashes of red all over. A slender outside counter seats just four, while inside is a mix of bar stools and cozier red leather corner-fitted couches—just don’t expect too much privacy. Behind the bar you’ll spot a row of jars containing Chinese herbs and infusions.

The drinks: Bartenders in white lab coats whip up creations from one of the guys behind the highly regarded Q&A cocktail bar. Expect plenty of infused spirits and Chinese twists in the likes of the Oolong Tea & Orange Sour (B280), a take

on the whiskey sour made with oolong tea and orange peel-infused Wild Turkey 81 bourbon.

Just as exciting is the house-infused chrysanthemum vodka—try it in a shot (B280), which tastes just like chrysanthemum tea, or a cocktail like the Chrysanthemum Vanilla Fizz (with vanilla syrup, lemon, egg white and soda, garnished with chrysanthemum, lemon and orange, B280). For something even more adventurous, the Bakkwa Old Fashioned (B340) features rosemary-infused bourbon, chili and cinnamon syrup, angostura and orange bitters, and orange peel, garnished with bakkwa (Chinese salty-sweet dried pork similar to jerky) and spices.

The food: As the owners also run Xiao Chi (at The Commons), and previously Bao & Buns (now defunct), its little surprise bar snacks stick to theme. Try the platter of four different types

of crispy pork (B320), a play on French cold cuts, or the rich and delicious Hong Kong-style congee (B220). There will be more dim sum dishes in the near future.

The music: The very hip soundtrack flits between electro-pop, indie rock, jazz and even the odd Chinese song.

The crowd: Dapper young professionals with their finger on the pulse and expat run-off from Peppina next door.

Why you should go back: A themed bar that’s not pretentious, Dim Dim makes for a fun, casual yet kitsch night out, where you’re guaranteed excellent cocktails.

STARFRUIT MARGARITA (B280) AT BARISA

Tequila, jalapeno syrup and lemon, garnished with a slice of starfruit 3/F, The Commons, Thonglor Soi 17, 094-6578775. Open Fri-Sun 6pm-midnight

27/1 Sukhumvit Soi 33, 086-398-9052. Open MonSat 6:30pm-1:30am

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35

Su kh um vit Rd .

Sukhumvit Soi 11, 087-066-7711. Open daily 6pm-2am

Suk hum vit

booths of Walden (7/1 Sukhumvit Soi 31) are just the place to imbibe a glass of Glenfiddich 12-year-old with green apple and soda (B200).

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Suk hum vit 33/ 1

3 Hopping over to Soi 31, the semi-private

THE RICARDO ROBSON (B320) AT HAVANA SOCIAL

Diplomatico Anejo, Solerno blood orange, lime juice, orange juice and grenadine, garnished with honeycomb and rose petal

Sukh umv it 33

craft beer bar Hair of the Dog (593/27 Sukhumvit Soi 33/1). Try the newly arrived Founders KBS Imperial stout (B580/bottle), an impressive 11.2-percent brew that’s aged in bourbon barrels.

Sukhu mvit 3 1

2 Steps away you’ll find the second branch of

Sukhumvit 20

1

Prom Chit Alley Sukh umvit 29

1 For some classic British pub grub and a pint, start at The Royal Oak (595/10 Sukhumvit Soi 33/1). Their half chicken, served with boiled potatoes, vegetables and gravy is a steal at B295.

Dim Dim

Sukhumvit 22

Come for Dim Dim, stay for these other top bars around Phrom Phong.

Sukh umvit 27

BAR CRAWL Phrom Phong

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bites FOOD REVIEWS

Eastbound HHHH Vietnamese. G/F, The Commons, Thonglor Soi 17, 098-253-9356. Open daily 11am-10pm BB F

Vietnamese sandwiches (banh mi) are no longer the rarity they were not so long ago in Bangkok. For that we’re grateful.

But covered in skateboarding and crustpunk stickers, this red and black stall at The Commons community mall does things a little differently. What they call “Californian-style” banh mi might well be described as “hipster food mashups,” though this food is not quite as gimmicky as next-door Soul Food 555’s khaosoy and somtam burgers. Instead of baguettes stuffed with the traditional cold cuts, the focus is on warm, stir-fried fillings. Though our authenticity radar detects a problem, the duck banh mi (B280) is a spicy delight worth revisiting over and over. Some of the regular components are still there inside the light and crisp baguette—the pickled carrot and daikon, the fresh sprigs of coriander and the smear of pate—but the juicy, Sriracha-slathered duck meat is unlike anything you’ll find on the streets of Hanoi (or anywhere else in Bangkok,

Tai He Xuan HHHH Chinese. Baan Chan Condominium, 23/1 Thonglor Soi 20, 02-714-8639. Open daily 11am-2:30pm, 6-10pm. BTS Thong Lo. B-BBB. Corkage B100. H F

Thonglor may be home to endless Japanese restaurants, but you can count on one hand the number of proper Chinese restaurants in the neighborhood.

Tai He Xuan aspires to be just that, but falls short. Taking over the ground floor of a condominium in Thonglor Soi 20, the lobby-like dining room lacks the fancy frills of so many other Chinese restaurants. Instead, some 15 wooden tables sit unceremoniously amid plain cream walls and fiercely bright lighting.

Most of the classics can be found here— from wok stir-fries to congee, dim sum to Peking duck—but the kitchen delivers only modest thrills and the distant service doesn’t help make the place feel particularly special. With the Peking duck

for that matter). The pork sausage version (B240) comes with a near identical flavor profile, only with the disarmingly rubbery texture of stir-fried moo-yor (pork sausage). We’d happily order two or three of these to go with a beer (available at Beer Cap on the same floor), but prices are a minor concern. Coming in at B240280 per petite sandwich, Eastbound charges up to double what our other banh mi favorites charge (see: Banh Mi Crispy at W District). Remember, though, you’re paying for the privilege of being in Thonglor. Beyond baguettes, the placemat menu lists rolls and noodles, none of which really scale the same heights. The crispy egg rolls (B160) pack ground pork, taro, cabbage and vermicelli noodles into satisfyingly crunchy, not-too-oily morsels.

The beef pho (B200) features another of those fusion touches, swimming with at least two types of mushroom. Overall, our recent bowl was solid if not spectacular thanks to a slightly watery broth and lack of garnishes, but the thin slithers of meat were nonetheless flavorsome. Nestled among the bakeries and coffee stands at the entrance to the mall, Eastbound’s bar seating can feel a little isolated from the communal night-time fun deeper inside.

That’s if the place isn’t gatecrashed by DJs and hangers on from the Beam and Future Factory party scene, as on our last visit.

Don’t go to Eastbound for an authentic Vietnamese meal—you have Vietnamese & More, Le Dalat or Saigon Recipe for that.

Go there for a darn good sandwich.

(B980, but perpetually sold at the promotional price of B499), for example, you never get to see the whole duck, as it comes out already sliced as a big plate of skin alongside the pancakes, and another plate of sliced skin and meat.

Thankfully, this lack of ritual doesn’t detract from the flavor too much, with the crisp skin going well with the sweet glutinous black soy sauce. It was another of their cooked duck meat dishes, miang ped (stir-fried duck meat with fresh iceberg lettuce, B100), that was the real let-down on our last visit, coming full of sticky, overcooked meat that was a chore to get through. The dim sum menu is serviceable, be it the subtly flavored hagao (prawn dumpling, B100) or xiao long bao (steamed pork bun, B80/120), though the latter is a bit lacking in oozy soup filling. The rice noodle roll with shrimp (B100) features a balanced sauce; too bad the fried prawns are not soft and springy. Though prices seem very reasonable, do be warned some of the portions here are quite small. The deepfried softshell crab with chili and salt (B220) is definitely more appetizer than main and, like some other dishes on the menu, comes with unpredictable pockets of saltiness. While not a complete disaster, Tai He Xuan is far too hit-andmiss to be considered a hidden gem.

Ratings

Price guide

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

B BB BBB BBBB

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

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

Reach Thousands of Hungry Affluent Diners in BK Magazine’s Top Tables Symbols

Bangkok’s most trusted guide for discerning foodies

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

Book before 31 January 2017 for 30% discount Call: 02 624 9696 #601, 615, 620 Email: advertising@asia-city.co.th

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bites

OPEN DOOR

Siam Tea Room A tearoom serving Thai and Western flavors.

The buzz: The newly renovated and relaunched Marriott Marquis hotel (which has completely remodeled what was the Imperial Queen's Park) will eventually boast 10 food and beverage outlets. One of the first to open, Siam Tea Room is all about Thai food and Western baked goods.

The decor: At the hotel entrance sits a wooden sala by prominent national artist Thawan Duchanee, inherited from the hotel's Imperial Queen's Park days. Inside the hotel you’ll immediately spot the tearoom by the rows of fresh baked items and takeaway tea sets. Off to the left is the main dining room, complete with an alfresco terrace. The space blends clean, contemporary lines with traditional Thai touches like patterned tiles and upholstery right down to the celadon dishware and cutlery from Aranyik, a village to the northeast of Bangkok.

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The food: Chef Anukul Poolpipat (previously of JW Marriott) leads the kitchen to serve mostly classic Thai cuisine with nostalgic flavors, drawing from his own family recipes and produce sourced from across the country. His grandma’s yum som chun (spicy salad, B180) combines the tanginess of pomelo, green mango and som sa (Thai bitter orange) with the spicy kick of chili, sweet and salty flavor of braised pork belly and crispy texture of fried fish. You’ll also find relatively straight-up renditions of pad Thai (B274), which comes with a side of green mango instead of beansprouts, and massaman curry with sweet potato (B395). Desserts get some Western twists courtesy of pastry chef Alfred Markel (who also takes care of the bakery section), like the delectable toasted brioche with pandan custard and young coconut meat (B180).

The drinks: Old-school Thai drinks like milk tea and Thai black coffee (both B95) are served alongside the hotel’s exclusive blends of Dilmah tea (B79) and espresso-based coffee using beans from Chiang Mai (from B45). Stay tuned for a Thai afternoon tea set.

Why you should care: The Thai food really is delicious, the hotel setting slick yet charming, and the prices very affordable.

Pastries like croissants (B65) are worth grabbing on your way out, too. Natcha Sanguankiattichai Marriott Marquis, 199 Sukhumvit Soi 22, 02-059-5555. Open daily 7am-11pm

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Chilito

Sushi Zo

Arena River Cruise

Wua

NEW AND NOTED

Sushi Star Japanese chef Keizo Seiki’s Sushi Zo comes with great acclaim from Los Angeles and New York, where his omakase-only restaurant was just awarded one star in Michelin’s 2017 guide. Here in Bangkok (Athenee Tower, 63 Wireless Rd., 02-168-8490) the latest branch is headed by Hokkaido-born executive chef Toshi Onishi, who serves up about 20 courses of sushi for B7,000-8,000. The minimalist, wood-heavy space accommodates about 10 diners per seating, with reservations required two days in advance—something we can see lengthening substantially.

Spice on Board Unlike most tourist fixtures on the Chao Phraya River, Arena River Cruise (089-123-9647, www.arenarivercruise.com) doesn’t take you on an evening journey filled with Thai food staples. Embarking from the Asiatique pier daily at 9pm, this 50-seater dinner cruise offers a line of Indian dishes like samosa, tandoori chicken, biryani, naan and curries all the

TABLE TALK

way through to desserts like gulab jamun (milk balls). The three-hour-long trip also features the sounds of live acoustic Indian music. The price is B1,250 net per person, excluding beverages. Reservations required.

Chili Chili Silom has a new Mexican takeaway spot. Chilito (G/F, Silom Complex, Silom Rd., www.fb.com/ChilitoMexicanGrill) is run by the same team behind salad specialist Farmfactory (on the second floor of the same mall) and serves burrito bowls, wraps and tacos. The bowls work in a similar way to our familiar curry rice: you have Mexican-style fried brown rice as the base to which you can add toppings. Choose from pre-designed combinations like Summers Chicken (tomato salsa, black beans, romaine lettuce, sour cream, chili sauce, cheese and roast chicken, B135) and Chili Salmon (tomato salsa, black beans, romaine lettuce, red chili salsa and roast salmon, B145), or create your own from B154. There are also chips with guacamole (B125) and nachos (from B99) on offer.

59/1 Sukhumvit Soi 63 (Ekkamai). 089-693-6555.

Open Tue-Sat 5pm-11pm; Sun 11am-11pm This brick-dominated steakhouse offers views over Ekkamai's Cubic 63 complex along with serious slabs of meat, grilled to your preference. Australian Angus and wagyu beef are available in three cuts, including striploin (from B650), ribeye (from B750) and tenderloin (from B750), with sides like mashed purple sweet potato and sauteed onion. Otherwise, opt for a huge-portioned rack of lamb (B1,790) or Darling Downs wagyu tomahawk (B3,890/1.5kg) to share. On top of steaks, chef-partner Chavanan Urasyanandana also rolls out French classics like onion soup (B180), foie gras (B590) and braised beef cheek (B270).

Exclusively for Citi credit cardmembers.

Get 15% discount on food only for Citi Ultima, Prestige, Preferred, and Select or get 10% discount on food only for other card types (Today -30 Nov 17)

Natcha Sanguankiattichai

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now FRI In Color SAT Feline Fine One of the city’s most popular music festivals, Cat Expo, takes over Wonder World Fun Park (41 Ram Indra Rd.) this Feb 4-5, gathering over 100 emerging and veteran local bands together for a weekend of live music, food and drinks. Tickets are B1,500 from Thaiticketmajor.

Celebrate the fifth anniversary of the popular party crew at Kolour 5 Year Anniversary this Jan 29, where five resident DJs will spin disco and house at Zoom (40/F, Anantara Bangkok Sathorn Hotel, 36 Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Rd.) alongside a gourmet barbecue and plenty of drinks.

Tickets are B400-600 at bit.ly/KolourAnniversary

SUN Gallery to Gallery Spend the night gallery hopping along a pre-mapped route of the city's best galleries and art spaces this Feb 3-4 for the fourth edition of Galleries' Night. See more on page 26.

SAT Run Along SAT All that Jazz This Jan 28, the country's biggest jazz event of the year, Thailand International Jazz Conference 2017, returns for a three-day festival featuring performances from more than 60 local and international jazz artists take the stage at Prince Mahidol Hall (Mahidol University Salaya Campus, 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd.) Tickets are B100-500.

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The country's biggest marathon, Bangkok Marathon, returns to the Old Town (Uttayan Rd.) this Feb 5, offering 10, 21 and 42km runs around the Grand Palace and beyond. Registration is B500-1,000 at www.bkkmarathon.com.

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now NIGHTLIFE

LIVE MUSIC

Hariguem Zaboy

Nic Fanciulli

Osunlade

Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra

Dog on the Turns

BURAKETE

DOPE AS FUNK: YEAR OF THE ROOSTER

The Turkish DJ spins a vinyl set that combines Afrobeats and Southeastern Asian psychedelic tunes. Jan 27, 9pm. Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. Free.

BTS Thong Lo.

classical

Local DJs Arin, Luck-E, Tommy Nori and Karl Andy celebrate Chinese New Year with their funky beats. Jan 28, 10pm. Live RCA Bangkok, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 098974-6974. B300.

THAILAND INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2017

OSUNLADE

UNST PRESENTS MANUEL FISCHER

Third Ear by Absolut presents a night of techno and deep house from the US-based DJ with support from Bangkok's DJ Maarten Goetheer. Jan 27, 9pm. Vogue Lounge, 6/F, Mahanakhon Cube, Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Rd., 02-0010697. Free. BTS Chong Nonsi.

The Zurich-based DJ spins a set of his best tracks with support from local talent DJs DOTT, Ellie and Sarayu.

Jan 28, 10pm. Dark Bar, 2/F, Ekamai Mall, Ekkamai Soi 10, 092-446-6298. B200.

SUNN PRESENTS: MONKEY SAFARI

The popular Bangkok party crew celebrates its fifth birthday with a gourmet barbecue, plenty of drinks and five resident DJs spinning disco and house. Tickets at bit.ly/KolourAnniversary Jan 29, 2pm. Zoom, 40/F, Anantara Bangkok Sathorn Hotel, 36 Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Rd., 02-210-9000. B400-600.

KOLOUR 5 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Best known for their track "Hi-Life," the German techno DJ duo and music producers take over the Bangkok stage with support from DJ Kimball Collins. Tickets at bit.ly/2iEGZW4 or at the door. Jan 27, 9pm. Live RCA Bangkok, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 098-974-6974. B390-500 (2 free drinks before 10pm).

JEREMY CHEUNG

SUNDAZE WITH STATUS DEEPER

The first installment of the monthly party series organized by local techno DJ Sunju Hargun welcomes the Oman-based Hong Kong DJ to play techno and deep house. Jan 27, 10pm.

Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 086-614-3355. B350 (includes one drink). MRT Sukhumvit.

A night of music collaboration from DJs DOTT and Junesis, who’ll be spinning quality techno and minimal house throughout the night. Jan 29, 9pm. Glow, 96/45 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 086-614-3355. B250 (includes one drink). MRT Sukhumvit.

CHINESE NEW YEAR 2017 WEEKEND

ANTON X GET PHYSICAL

Celebrate the year of the rooster with a weekend-long party featuring music from DJs SG, Master D, Knatz and Tommy Nori. Free-flow drinks between 9-10pm. Jan 27-28, 9pm.

Ce La Vi, 39/F, Sathorn Square Complex, 98 Sathorn Rd., 02-108-2000. Free. BTS Chong Nonsi.

The French techno DJ spins minimal Detroit house tracks. Jan 29, 10pm. Ce La Vi, 39/F, Sathorn Square Complex, 98 Sathorn Rd., 02-108-2000. Free. BTS Chong Nonsi.

RETOX SESSIONS PRESENTS NIC FANCIULLI

The Bangkok-based American MC and hip-hop producer releases the third part of his 747 EP with a huge party featuring music from DJs Karl Andy, Aopsher and Rory Breaker-Morant. Feb 4, 9pm. Vogue Lounge, 6/F, Mahanakhon Cube, Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Rd., 02001-0697. Free. BTS Chong Nonsi.

UNDA 747 PART III RELEASE PARTY

The Grammy-nominated British house music producer and DJ, best known for his track "Movin’ On," performs with support from Sunju Hargun. Ticket info TBA. Jan 28, 9pm.

Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 086-614-3355. Free. MRT Sukhumvit.

TROPICAL SOUNDS

ZudRangMa Records’ DJ Dangdut Banget plays his favorite selection of '60s-'80s tropical tracks from across the African continent. Jan 28, 9pm. Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. Free. BTS Thong Lo.

KICKS FEST 3! BANGKOK ALTERNATE MUSIC FESTIVAL JAZZ

The Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra, along with guest conductor Prateep Suphanroj, hosts a 3-day festival dedicated to jazz featuring performances with more than 60 local and international jazz artists.

Jan 28, 4pm. Prince Mahidol Hall, Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd. B100-500.

FROM GERMANY TO JAPAN

The Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra performs alongside German guest conductor Gudni A. Emilson and guest Japanese saxophonist Yo Masushita. Feb 3-4, 4pm. Prince Mahidol Hall, Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd. B100-500.

gigs

A mini music festival showcasing underground musical talents, including Vietnamese punk band James and the Van Der Beeks and Canadian rocker Yeti Jang. Local names include Bomb at Track, Pistols99, Pretty Punks, Spring.Fall.Sea and more. Jan 28, 7pm. Soy Sauce Factory, 11/1 Charoenkrung Soi 24, 061-835-6824.

B200.

HARIGUEM ZABOY'S KART ALBUM LAUNCH

The local indie rock band launches their second album after the success of their debut, Thick Mink, in 2014, with support from Thirdperson and DJs Tat and Tokin. Ticket comes with a CD of the new album and one free drink. Feb 1, 7pm. Thong Lor Art Space, 58/14-15 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). B600.

KEEP TALKING LIVE IN BANGKOK

MDC (MILLIONS OF DEAD COPS) LIVE IN BANGKOK

The American old-school punk band from Austin, Texas, performs live with support from local bands The Elected Officials, License to Kill, Cold Black Vines and Lord Liar Boots. Jan 27, 7pm. Soy Sauce Factory, 11/1 Charoenkrung Soi 24, 061-8356824. B200.

The Swiss hardcore band performs in Bangkok as part of their Southeast Asia tour with support from local bands License To Kill, Monument X, Lowfat, Babylon BK, Godfester, High Voltage, Ground Zero, Radical Rat and Hate Money. Feb 4, 4pm. Soy Sauce Factory, 11/1 Charoenkrung Soi 24, 061-835-6824. B300.

music festivals CAT EXPO 3D

SUPERGOODS

The local soul and funk band introduce new members and a new songlist with a live performance. Jan 27, 7pm. Soulbar, 945 Charoenkrung Rd., 093-220-0441. Free.

Organized by Cat Radio, one of the city’s most popular music festivals returns, gathering over a hundred emerging and veteran local bands together for a weekend of live music, food and drinks. Feb 4-5, 3pm.

Wonder World Fun Park, 41 Ram Indra Rd. B1,500 from Thaiticketmajor.

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now ART

ART HIGHLIGHT

BYPASS

LEAF WALK

As part of his first solo exhibition, Pakkawat Tanghom presents a series of photographs captured over the past five years documenting his various road trips around Thailand. Feb 3-Mar 31. Most, 672-36 Charoenkrung Soi 26, 02-639-6582.

For his first solo exhibition, Brendan Lynch showcases oil paintings, collage works and murals inspired by the 1988 animated film The Land Before Time and its portrayal of nature as an adventure. Through Mar 23.

Nova Contemporary, G/F, Baan Somthavil, Ratchadamri Rd.

LOOKING AND SEEING

MITR

Pichai Pongsasaovapark uses photography and installations to simulate urban flooding in an exploration of global warming and its effects on humans and city living. Through Feb 26. S.A.C. Subhashok The Art Centre, Sukhumvit Soi 39.

Under the theme of companionship, this group exhibition combines the work of local artists Lolay, Rukkit and Chip7 with those by visiting artists from around Asia including Hideyuki Katsumata (Japan), Funny Dress Up Lab (Japan), GR 1 (Korea),Goo For Brothers (Korea), Matiyu (Korea), Mr.OGAY (Taiwan) and CYH Jayson+ Lowray (Taiwan). Feb 3-28. Bridge, Charoenkrung Soi 51, 086-986-9421. BTS Saphan Taksin.

Sebastiao Salgado

This Feb 8-Mar 8, the Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre showcases the work of renowned Brazilian photographer Sebastiao Salgado in an exhibition dubbed The World Through His Eyes.

In association with The Royal Photographic Society of Thailand and Sundaram Tagore Gallery, the exhibition will feature more than 120 iconic black-and-white images taken by the photographer over the past 30 years, including highlights from his most successful exhibitions, including "Workers" (1986–1993) and "Genesis" (2004–2011).

A 2014 documentary directed by Wim Wenders called The Salt of the Earth, which captures the life of Salgado and his work, will be screened throughout the exhibition period.

The 72-year-old photographer will also be present at the exhibition opening, where he'll be sharing a keynote speech and signing copies of his photography book. Tickets to the opening night can be reserved at 091-115-7575, with entry priced at B1,000 for general public (B500 for students and Royal Photographic Society of Thailand members).

Salgado is a social documentary photographer and photojournalist best known for his dynamic, high-contrast images that delve intimately into various societies and landscapes around the world. On top of his photography, Salgado is also a UNICEF Good Will Ambassador and has worked for charity projects supporting coffee farmers and reforestation.

Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, 939 Rama 1 Rd. BTS National Stadium

PHOTOSYNTHESIS

TIMEMAKER

A group photography exhibition showcasing the work of young, emerging artists including Kanich Khajohnsri, Jittapoom Aryapitak, Nirintana Koomanee, Micaela Marini Higgs and Zhang Jiechen. Feb 3-Apr 3. Tentacles N22, Narathiwas Soi 22, 082-487-1487.

Polish-born photographer and filmmaker Zuzanna Kowalska explores a day in the life of her 84-year-old grandfather in his clockmaking business—a quickly dying profession in the modern world—in a series of documentary photographs. Through Feb 13. Thong Lor Art Space, 58/14-15 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor).

BE GOOD

Shop Sustainably

WHY NOT Go Gallery Hopping This Feb 3-4, the best galleries and art spaces around Bangkok come together for the fourth edition of the popular Galleries’ Night. Organized by the French Embassy of Thailand, the two-day event will see these galleries open from 5pm till late, hosting special exhibitions, performances, artist meetings, screenings, live music and more.

Visitors can hop between the venues along a premapped route, with Feb 3 focused on spaces along the Silom BTS Line while Feb 4 involves those on the BTS Sukhumvit Line. This time sees 40 venues participating, including Bangkok Citycity Gallery, 100 Tonson Gallery, Rebel Art Space, Galerie Adler and more.

For details, visit www.fb.com/galleriesnight

This Feb 4-5 VolksKraft Ethical Crafts Hub and Ma:D Club for Better Society hosts Tham Tham Festival, an arts and crafts market that aims to promote simplicity, love for nature and sufficient self-sustaining economies in line with HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s philosophies. Expect booths from over 30 social enterprises and ethical businesses from around the country, alongside craft workshops covering embroidery, garland making, stone-painting and more. There also promises to be public discussions on topics including “Social Enterprises in Reflection of Dharma, Nature and Simplicity” and “Slow Fashion vs Fast Fashion: Ethical and Meaningful Crafts,” all held in an outdoor garden.

Kru Angun Malik’s Garden (former Root Garden), Thonglor Soi 3. BTS Thong Lo

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now THEATER

Diary of Anne Frank Opera

FILM Opera Siam presents a monodramatic opera based on the original diary of Anne Frank, following a 13-year-old girl who hides in her family home in 1942 during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands.

Composed by Grigori Frid and Performed with accompaniment from the Siam Philharmonic Orchestra. Through Jan 27, 7pm. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-2146630-8. B500. BTS National Stadium.

Opening (Jan 19)

AMERICAN PASTORAL (USA)

THE RED TURTLE (UK)

Crime/Drama. The seemingly perfect lives of an ex-high school top athlete (Ewan McGregor) and former beauty queen (Jennifer Connelly) are shattered after their beloved daughter disappears.

Animation/Fantasy. A silent film following the major life stages of a castaway on a deserted island populated only by turtles, crabs and birds.

CLASSES & WORKSHOPS OUT BUSINESS NETWORK BANGKOK

A networking event to launch the brand new Out Business Network, a community that aims to raise awareness of sexual orientation equality in the workplace, support the career development of LBGT+ employees and provide strategic advice for employers on the issues affecting LGBT+ people in the workplace. Jan 31, 7pm. Sofitel So Bangkok, 2 Sathorn Rd., 02-624-0000. Free. MRT Lumphini.

SEO FOR BUSINESS

Learn how to leverage SEO to boost the success of your startup business in a talk led by Natthaphon Kanjarnavoranun, an SEO expert who has previously worked with Lazada, Traveloka, Trusteecar and more. Feb 7, 7pm. Launchpad Co-Working Space, 1/F, Sethiwan Tower Silom, Silom Rd., 02-266-6222.

Free. BTS Surasak.

RESIDENT EVIL: THE FINAL CHAPTER (USA)

THE FOUNDER (USA)

Sci-Fi/Horror. As one of the only survivors of humanity, Alice (Milla Jovovich) must return to Raccoon City where the Umbrella Corporation is gathering its forces for a final strike against mankind.

Biography/Drama. A look into the life of Ray Kroc (Michael Keaton) who bought the 1950s burger operation of Mac and Dick McDonald and transformed it into a billion-dollar fast food empire.

KUNG-FU YOGA (CHINA)

Action. A renowned professor of archaeology (Jackie Chan) teams up with a young Indian professor to locate India’s lost Magadha treasure in Tibet.

SPORTS

Upcoming (Jan 26)

Bitec Half Marathon

BANGKOK MARATHON

The country's biggest marathon returns to the Old Town, offering 10, 21 and 42km runs around the Grand Palace and beyond. Free bus transfer to the race destination is offered from Lumphini Park and Victory Monument. Register at www.bkkmarathon. com. Feb 5, 12am. Uttayan Rd. B500-1,000.

BITEC HALF MARATHON 2017

One of the city's biggest running events returns offering 5, 10 and 21km distances. Proceeds will be donated to the Saijaithai Foundation under the Royal Patronage. Register at www.bitec-halfmarathon.com. Feb 5, 5am. BITEC, 88 Bang Na-Trat Rd., 02-749-3939. B500-700. BTS Bang Na.

18TH VERTICAL MARATHON

The annual vertical run returns for its 18th year, challenging runners up 61 floors of the hotel, and ending with the stunning views of Vertigo rooftop bar. Participants can register to race individually, as a pair or in a team. www.gotorace.com/event/vertical-marathon-2016. Feb 26, 6am. The Banyan Tree, 21/100 Sathorn Rd., 02-679-1200. B400-1,600.

THE COLOR RUN: TROPICOLOR WORLD TOUR 2017

After postponing from late 2016, the popular fun run dubbed "The Happiest 5k on the Planet" returns promising tropical-themed color throws and island-style music as you make your way to the finish line. There will also be a music festival after the finish line with even more color throws and party music. Register at thecolorrun.co.th. Apr 1-2, 2:30pm. Makkasan Airport Link Station, Kamphaeng Phet Rd. MRT Makkasan. B700-1000.

MR. HURT (THAI)

MISS SLOANE (USA).

Comedy. A heartbroken professional tennis player (Sunny Suwanmethanon) struggles to keep up his game when his ex-girlfriend (Marie Broenner) starts dating a sleazy rock star.

Drama/Thriller. The reputation of a formidable political lobbyist (Jessica Chastain) is put to the test when she is faced with the biggest opponent of her career.

SLEEPLESS (USA)

Drama. A young girl from a troubled home (Sasha Lane) runs away with a gang of teens driving across America to sell subscriptions door-to-door.

Action/Crime/Thriller. An undercover LA police officer (Jamie Foxx) caught in a high-stakes web of corrupt cops, internal affairs and murderous gangsters must take things into his own hands when his son is kidnapped.

SPLIT (USA)

Horror/Thriller. A man suffering from multiple personality disorder (James McAvoy) kidnaps three teenage girls and locks them in a room.

AMERICAN HONEY (UK/USA)

MONSTER TRUCKS (USA)

Action/Animation. A monster truck made by a high school senior from pieces of scrap metal mysteriously comes to life after an accident at an oil-drilling site.

BK Magazine Friday, January 27, 2017

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