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Baby One More Time
BK MAGAZINE NO. 695 FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. www.bkmagazine.com
NEW
Old Town in the
The young businesses breathing fresh life into Rattanakosin
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page 3 6 cover story
Old Meets New
What We’ve Learned
4 upfront
9 escapes
Yes Minister
Travel Light
10 avenue
15 bites
New Regimes
Almost Ready
That Bangkok’s concerts are getting poppier by the day First Harry Styles, now Joe Jonas—pop-loving ‘tweens must be shrieking with joy at Bangkok’s long summer of live music… if only they could afford all the ticket prices. The latest announcements are Jonas’s dance-rock band DNCE (Aug 10, B2,500) and pop-rockers One Republic (Sep 21, B2,000). Start saving.
16 bites
19 BK Now
Sketches of Spain
Main Event
Who's in charge? Managing Director Andrew Hiransomboon Managing Editor Oliver Irvine Deputy Editor Carl Dixon, Thitipol Panyalimpanun Features Associate Monruedee Jansuttipan Senior Writer Bonnie Sananvatananont Staff Writer Natcha Sanguankiattichai, Theerada Moonsiri Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Junior Writers Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj, Kasidit Srivilai, Rujiyatorn Choksiriwan Art Director Vatanya Bongkotkarn Production Supervisor Komkrit Klinkaeo Senior Graphic Designers Chantich Kongchanmitkul, Peeraya Sirathanisa Graphic Designer Anunya Chobnitas Video Content Manager Chanon Wongsatayanont Photographer Chissanupong Narmmoolnark Video Editor Tanaporn Choopanya, Saranya Laowtrakul
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 Sales Associates Pichayarak Chalermchainukul Marketing Executive Plaifon Chienvichai Product Director Gregoire Glachant Senior Project Manager Chayanap Tongdadas Branded Content Associate Sureepak Janyapat Project Coordinator Nutnicha Nuttanakorn Senior Developer Jinin Jaengkitsopon 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
That Siam Paragon has gone ballistic with foodie imports The wait is over. Six months behind schedule, American breakfast specialist IHOP has opened at Siam Paragon (G/F), bringing with it pancakes, waffles, omelets and an un-breakfast-like opening time of 10am. It’s joined on the same floor by Ben’s Cookies, the UK chain known for its soft cookies in decadent flavors like double chocolate and white chocolate chunk. You’d better expect a queue.
Contributors Kathy MacLeod, Lily Kittisrikangwan, Chawadee Nualkhair Interns Pragyan Ghale, Kawee Jarach, Nathanan Charoenkitchaikarn, Yanika Piyatassee, Wipawee Chaweepat, Sirawit Paopattana, Phone Myat Khine, Punsita Ritthikarn, Chitsanupong Suphattanawat, Thanakorn Kongram Cover by Chantich Kongchanmitkul Cover photo by Sirawit Paopattana
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
That an 80-year-old noodle specialist is embracing bitcoin Lim Lao Ngow is going where no other Bangkok restaurant has gone before (OK, besides Eat Me) by accepting the cryptocurrency as payment. Currently, it’s only available at their Siam Square One branch, where a bowl of noodles sets you back about B35. With 1 bitcoin currently valued at B84,647.97, we’ll leave you to do the math. That Singapore’s Michelin-starred street stall has opened in Bangkok Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Chicken Rice & Noodles was one of just two street-food stalls to be awarded a star in Singapore’s first Michelin Guide in 2016. After that, ownerchef Chan Hon Meng rapidly expanded his empire with two further “quick-service” outposts in Singapore, plus one in Taipei, under the name Hawker Chan. Now it’s brought specialties like Hong Kong-style soya sauce chicken and barbecue pork to Terminal 21 (4/F). That Bangkok buses are finally getting ticket machines According to the Bangkok Mass Transport Authority, two types of ticketing systems will be installed on 800 of the city’s 2,600 buses by the end of the year. Slated to launch on some 100 buses on Oct 1, one system will sell tickets, while the other will cater to the much-vaunted Mangmoon all-in-one transport card that’ll totally, definitely be working by that date too.
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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BK Magazine Friday, June 23, 2017
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upfront HOT OR NOT
Hot: Bottle shops
Not: Taprooms
While you were over at 72 Courtyard guzzling Vedett IPA, something new actually popped up in the old Marketplace Thonglor (last visited when Starbuck’s was considered hip). Warp follows bottle shop trends around the world in letting you buy your booze at retail price then sit in the store and drink it. Want more proof bottle shops are hot? Pull up a stool with the dek inter kids at Suk 36’s B.O.B.
Location: Freebird
INTERVIEW
Hot: Latte art
Not: Slow drip
It’s official. Thailand pours the best looking cups of coffee in the world. Chiang Mai caffeine geek Arnon Thitiprasert just took the top spot in the very important 2017 World Latte Art Championship, which this year happened in Hungary. That’s four spots higher than his last PB in 2015, which just goes to show: if you dedicate your time to something truly worthwhile, you can make a difference.
Hot: Scala
Not: Mixed-use developments
Scala Theatre’s dripping stalactites of welcoming, communal, open-air loveliness are once more under threat from Chula, which owns the land on which it sits. The classic 1960s cinema has been in danger for the better part of 10 years, but with its latest lease running out, the criminally unprotected building is in a worse situation than ever. No concrete word on what might take its place, but past murmurs from the press have included the words “retail complex.”
Hot: Old Town
Not: Sukhumvit
We need to apologize to you. While out visiting new, tourist-packed rooftop bars on Sukhumvit, we took our eye off the ball of what was happening over in the Old Town. This week’s cover story puts things right with a list of new beer bars, cocktail joints, restaurants, art spaces and museums which will make you want to move to Rattanakosin. But getting to your office in Asoke each morning: that’s still no easier.
THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID
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Abhisit Vejjajiva, 52, served as Thailand’s 27th prime minister from Dec 2008 to Aug 2011. He was in the spotlight again recently when he was announced as a guest columnist for the new Thai-language online news platform, The Standard—a move which angered many on social media. Here, the head of the Democrat Party tells us exactly what happened, while also sharing some words on politics and music. What have you been doing with your life since leaving power? I’ve pretty much been doing what a politician should do. I meet people, I discuss their problems, I study the issues that I think are important for the future of the country. I also have to make sure that I hold the party together. I am still the party leader even though political activities are banned.
got a lot to say. I think Taylor Swift is a talented songwriter. I’m looking forward to Royal Blood’s second album. Do you go out drinking in Bangkok at all? I don’t go out very much because I don’t have the privacy to do that. It’s the one downside of having a public career. Also I like to spend my time with my family.
Tell us what happened with The Standard. I was approached to be a columnist by the same team when they were at The Momentum . I never took the job, I just said in principle that I would need to see what topics I would write or what the publication’s direction was going to be first. The next thing I knew my photo was on their Facebook page.
What do you enjoy doing on a Sunday morning? Often my work takes me around the country, but if it’s Saturday or Sunday and I don’t have a work function, I stay in bed a little later than normal and just relax, listen to music or read books.
It said in your columnist bio that you were going to write about football and rock music. Who are your favorite bands and what’s currently on your playlist? I listen to everything from Elvis Presley to Chainsmokers. I listen to country. I think Miranda Lambert’s album after her breakup is superb, very emotional. I also listen to rap—Kendrick Lamar, he’s
What book are you currently reading? I have so many books on my Kindle, so I carry 10 -20 unfinished books with me. I read books on mathematics as well, as my wife is a mathematician. I have to confess, I’m not so good at reading fiction. Do you think the election will actually happen next year? We should all aim to stick to the timetable in the constitution. The country needs to return to
democracy. I think the country has already paid a considerable price by being in a transitional arrangement for over three years. The whole country is in need of radical restructuring. We have to improve quickly, but I’m also not demanding that we have to have an election tomorrow. If you could be Prime Minister again, what would you do differently? The country and our politics still demand a far higher standard of transparency, and we still have to aim to eliminate corruption. If I had another shot, it should be my last shot. I would have to be much more decisive in getting things done because I would not have another opportunity. What do you love about Bangkok? The liveliness of the place. Every time I go abroad to places that are calm, I always miss the noise and diversity of this city. What don’t you like about Bangkok? The traffic when it stops you from getting anywhere. And not to mention flooding when it rains. Interview by Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj
by Kathy MacLeod (IG: @kathy_macleod)
BK Magazine Friday, June 23, 2017
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ADVERTORIAL
Sustainable Event Venues Here’s where you should organize your next conference The globally recognized ISO 20121 certification, otherwise known as Event Sustainability Management Systems, encourages organizations in the events industry to make its products, events and services more sustainable. Thailand is the second country in the world to implement the certification after the United Kingdom, with five venues that have met the required standards since 2012. Under the ISO’s goals, venues are encouraged to combine profit, people and the planet in a way that is truly sustainable. Here's why you should pick these five ISO 20121-certified venues for your next conference.
Plaza Athénée Bangkok, A Royal Meridien Hotel This luxury 5-star hotel located at the heart of Bangkok is the world’s first hotel to ever receive the ISO 20121 certification. The award-winning Thai colonial interior design boasts 5,600sqm of meeting space that uses sustainable meeting practices. Events held here feature a fixed ecofriendly air conditioner temperature of 25 degrees Celsius, eco-friendly coffee and lunch menus, and excess food donation to contribute to your company’s CSR activity. After the event, guests can enjoy the hotel’s top-tier spa or head over to the luxury Central Embassy mall. 61 Wireless Road, Bangkok. 02-650-8800. BTS Phloen Chit
Queen Sirikit National Convention Center Named after Her Majesty Queen Sirikit in honor of her 60th birthday, this venue features approximately 65,000sqm of space, and regularly welcomes events of up to 5,000 visitors a day or exhibitions with 900 booths. Past noteworthy events range from the United Nations Conference to the annual Thai Book Fair. The venue also offers bicycle
parking to encourage visitors to be more eco-friendly. Stick around for a ride at the breezy Benjakitti Park next door. 60 New Rachadapisek Rd., Bangkok. 02-229-3000. MRT Queen Sirikit
Sampran Riverside This eco-cultural destination is arguably the most unique conference venue in Thailand. Originally formed in 1962, the space sits just an hour’s drive from Bangkok and includes 70 acres of certified organic gardens by the river. Their “Sampran Model” helps local communities promote organic produce to urban consumers and is only one of many ways which the venue supports the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. It’s also home to workshops, river cruises, Thai cooking classes and plenty more activities for downtime leisure. Pet Kasem Road, Sampran, Nakorn Pathom, 73110. 034-322-544
CPN's Chiang Mai Hall This MICE venue from the Central Pattana Public Company Limited, Thailand's leading real estate developer, is the first convention center in the north of Thailand to receive the ISO 20121 certification.
It's been credited for its fair labor practices in its hiring and employment policies, use of stateof-the-art equipment and facilities and application of systematic waste management procedures, to name a few. Located in Chiang Mai's CentralPlaza mall, it conveniently sits just a ten minute's drive from the airport. 2 Mahidol Road, Haiya, Muang, Chiangmai. 053-999-199
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TCEB’s Thailand MICE Venue Standard (TMVS) is part of their primary mission to push forward the local MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, Exhibitions) industry by being a standardizing tool
ICC Hat Yai For conferences in the south of Thailand, this venue is the go-to spot. Only opened in 2010, this venue has already earned itself the ISO 20121 certification. Located just 9 km from the Hat Yai International Airport, it’s extremely convenient to get to and provides everything you need for a top-tier event, be it leading-edge audio and visual equipment or an on-site food court. With Hat Yai also host to weekend markets like Asian Trade and Greenway, as well as the world’s third-largest reclining Buddha statue at Hat Yai Nai Temple, this is also a great cultural destination for foreign guests.
to systematically measure the quality of venues hosting MICE events and provide encouragement in moving towards
international
standards,
including sustainability ones. Since its conception, TMVS is now used across Thailand and has expanded into the ASEAN region. The latest edition of TCEB’s TMVS directory details the qualified 729 meeting rooms from 243 venues across Thailand including information on the hotel and meeting room profiles and features. Scan the QR code to download an online copy.
Punnakan Rd., Hat Yai. 074-289-9002
By
What is MICE? M – Meetings I – Incentives C – Conventions E – Exhibitions & Events
Extension of Choices
Join the conversation:
MICE Capabilities
tcebmicecap
6/12/17 3:53 PM
cover story
From brand new cafes on Phra Athit to the Bangkok City Library, we’ve rounded up the best new openings in Bangkok’s historic old town of Phra Nakhon-Rattanakosin. By Lily Kittisrikangwan
Fox Hole Art Shelter Cafe
Blue Whale
Step through a graffiti-filled alley and you’ll find this art space-meets-coffee-shop. The menu focuses on Chiang Rai coffee (try the What the Fox! brewed with ice-cold milk, B55) and local craft beers. To go with a bottle of Stonehead's fruity and flowery Busaba (B180), get one of the savory pies in flavors of spinach mushroom (B70) or fried egg and bacon (B80). The upstairs art space is also home to the DAM’N Cineclub screening room. 290/4 Tanao Rd., 086-666-6432. Open Mon, Wed-Thu 9:30am-8pm, Fri-Sun 9:30am-10pm
Lambretta Cafe Phra Sumen Road has turned into a hub for bikes, as illustrated by this cafe filled with Italian scooter parts and hard-to-find accessories. Lambretta collectors frequent the cafe during the day to browse its “mini-museum” before it turns into a bar, serving up food and Thai booze at very low prices. Make Me Mango
Raweekanlaya Dining
CAFES Blue Whale
This adorable cafe's nautical theme boasts blue and green tiles that mimic the scales of a fish and sketches of sea creatures. Drinks stick to the color scheme, led by the butterfly pea latte (B90 hot, B120 iced), as does the charcoal toast (with toppings like blueberries and coffee mascarpone or peanut butter-banana-nutella, starting at B130). 397/37 Maharaj Rd., 081-926-4146. Open FriWed 10am-8pm Latte Bua
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527 Phra Sumen Rd., 089-812-8990. Open Tue-Sun 6pm-midnight
Latte Bua
Arguably one of the more charming openings in the neighborhood, this cafe highlights its signature Latte Bua Milk (latte with house-infused lotus syrup, hot B80, cold B90), but if you’re more of a tea drinker, the owner imports 1872 Chopper Tea from Singapore coffee blossom-flavor (B70). A selection of cakes (B90-140) and brownies (B60) are on rotation at the counter, including Hokkaido cheesecake (B140) every Thursday.
Phra Athit Rd., 082-599-0959 Open daily Tue-Sun 10am-8pm
Like Italy
ing, made with unbleached Italian and French flour––and no margarine. Prices hover around only B28-55/piece, a refreshing change to most standalone bakeries. They serve coffee using beans solely from their independent roaster in Italy, blending 60 percent arabica and 40 percent robusta. Phra Athit Rd., 095-951-4188. Open Mon-Sat 7:30am-6pm
Make Me Mango
This narrow shop-house with a Monocle-worthy facade serves treats like the signature Make Me Mango (B185), a twist on mango sticky rice with mango ice cream, Thai custard and mango pudding. They also do a mango and durian sundae (B165/ B185), and bingsu (shaved ice, from B175). Savory fare includes pad Thai (B135) and grilled pork with sticky rice and somtam (B135). 67 Maharaj Rd., 02- 622- 0899. Open Fri-Wed 10:30am-8pm
Raweekanlaya Dining
Amid the lush greenery of Raweekanlaya boutique hotel's courtyard, this restaurant serves immaculately presented European dishes and hard-tofind local meals to suit the Thai colonial atmosphere of the white dining room. Highlights include khao soi nuea (B580), Northern-style egg noodles with sirloin beef shank oozing with local spices, and the baby cos clotted eggs Caesar salad (B420)— made using veggies from their organic garden. Early risers can head there at 6:30am to enjoy the breakfast set (B490), but heading over for some light snacks later in the afternoon by the pool is also a great way to spend the weekend. 164-172 Krung Kasen Rd., 02-628-5999. Open daily 6:30am-10am, 11:30am-2:30pm
Once on Soi Rambutri, Thomas Mancen and Oraphan Wanphen’s quaint Italian bakery now sits on Phra Athit. You’ll still find fresh-fromthe-oven pastries from 7am every morn-
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cover story low curry with grilled pork and wild betel leaves, B85), kratong thong (crispy golden cups, B65) and lemongrass fried chicken with riceberry sticky rice (B85). Desserts include the Thai Tea grass jelly shaved ice (B45) and Red Ruby (tub tim krob, B40). 142 Phra Athit Rd., 097-183-1910. Open Mon-Sat 11:30-8:30pm
69 Soi Tha Tien, 093-469-2969. Open Wed-Mon 11am-10pm
Black Cap Above Riva
At this intimate cafe (that was once Bean & Us), tuck into hearty all-day breakfast sets (B159-179), comfort dishes and desserts. Signature dishes include a salad served with green apples and housemade yogurtdill dressing (B145), stir-fried spaghetti with dried chili and bacon (B145), and generously portioned waffles, topped with strawberry sauce and fresh bananas (B155). Their huge drinks menu will leave you spoiled for choice, from the creamy chocolate milkshake (B120) to refreshing passionfruit smoothies (B120). Phra Athit Rd., 065-513-7897. Open daily 10am-7pm
RESTAURANTS Nopparat, Cuisine & Gallery Krua Nopparat’s second incarnation has been reimagined as a restaurant-slash-artspace. You can still expect age-old renditions of central Thai recipes, such as mee krob (sweet crispy rice noodles, B120) with
BARS Ku Bar Hidden far from sight, this is Bangkok’s latest “secret” cocktail bar helmed by Anupas Premanuwat, who worked as a mixologist at New York's acclaimed Angel's Share speakeasy. To get here, you'll have to traverse a narrow and dark alley running alongside Brown Sugar jazz bar. The drinks menu changes on a monthly basis, with cocktails that spotlight local ingredients plucked from the fresh market (starting at B350). Ku also offers natural wines from cult wineries, including “orange wine” like Matias Michelini "Via Revolucionaria" Torrantes (B370/glass, B1,750/bottle) from Argentina. Book ahead. 469 Phra Sumen Rd., 02-067-6731. Open Thu-Sun 7pm-midnight
Hazel’s Ice Cream Chef Somkiat Pairojmahakij of Seven Spoons, Sheepshank and Mad Moa has expanded his Old Town empire with a grown-up ice cream parlor that’s like no other in Bangkok. The ice cream comes from organic cafe Farm to Table in adult flavors like absinthe cream, IPA and bourbon vanilla (B140/scoop) on top of classics like Madagascar vanilla, single origin chocolate and balsamic strawberry (B80/ scoop). They also do sundaes (from B180) and boozy milkshakes (think fudge bourbon
Tonkin Annam
original Thai garnishes, beef curry served with roti (B160) and namprik long ruea with homemade chili paste (shrimp paste sauce served with mixed vegetable) and salted eggs (B150). Coffees and Italian sodas start at B50. 6/130-132 Phra Athit Rd., 085-059-5005. Open daily 10:30am-2:30pm, 5:30-9:30pm
Shophouse Kitchen Set in a row of heritage shop-houses, this new opening's soft-launch menu focuses on traditional recipes like bai chaplu (yel-
or strawberry with rye whiskey, both B220). Whiskey-based cocktails start from B290. 171 Chakkrapatipong Rd., 095-918-9898. Open Tue-Sun 5-11pm
Bottle Rocket This craft beer newbie focuses on Asian brews mainly from Thailand, Japan and Korea. There are 4-6 taps (B180-220/330ml glass), so get the beer tasting set (four types at B300). Don’t miss the photogenic beer cocktails, such as the easy-to-drink Ice Tea Beer that comes with an ice tea popsicle (B180). Head there early to take advantage of their 2-for-1 happy hour from 5-8pm daily.
Ten Suns The legendary 80-year-old kaolao soup recipe of Siew Neua Wua Rai Tiem Tan that once stood in the Nakhon Kasem alley has landed in a new location in the heart of Phra Nakhon. Chanyanpat Tiveschayun continues to season and braise his beef for 4-5 hours in accordance with his grandfather's recipe. The soup is a highlight, with its well-balanced flavor from over 10 types of Chinese herbs. Order your bowl of beef soup (B80) with brisket, plate and shank, or go with a bowl of each separately (B100-120). Wisutkasat Intersection, Prachatipatai Rd., 081838-2042. Open Mon-Sat 9am-3pm
Have To Cafe Black Cap
ents came from. The nem nuong (B250) features house-made grilled minced pork, along with extra-thin rice flour and sauce you can customize with separated chili and chopped peanuts. Try the thit kho tieu (braised pork belly in fish sauce, chili and black pepper) and Vietnamese drip coffee with egg sabayon (B80), too.
Behind the small counter, Chef Ton, who was once a head chef at a Mexican restaurant in Sydney, dishes out Western favorites like the massive finger-licking goodness of Big Burger (B250) and eggs Benedict (B170), as well as some Mexican fare like chimichangas (deepfried burrito, B200), quesadillas (B200) and nachos (B200). For B299, you can also get a beer (Chang, Singha, Leo) plus a main for B299 between 11am-2pm and 5-8pm. 22 Phra Athit Rd., 089-170-9059. Open Mon-Sat 9:30am-8pm, Sun 9:30am-6pm
Tonkin Annam
Above Riva Situated right at the end of the alley, Above Riva sits on the fifth floor of boutique hotel Riva Arun. Food offers a twist on Thai cuisine, such as the yam tua pu (B380), a shellfish and wing bean salad featuring langoustines, Mediterranean mussels and deep-fried avocado. You can also just pop by for a drink at the bar, which stocks a decent range of spirits—whiskies (B200-260), beers (B180-320), signature mocktails, cocktails and smoothies (start from B160). 5/F, Riva Arun, 392/25-26 Maharaj Rd., 02-2211188. Open daily 11:30am-midnight
One of the latest tenants in Tha Tian serves cuisine from Northern and Central Vietnam, where owner Gai Mitwicharn’s grandpar-
Dock No.13 Step further inside Phra Athit past Rarb and you'll find the street's latest drinking spot. Dock No. 13 features 13 taps in rotation (B180290), pouring hard-to-find and limited edition craft beers from all over the world. Go for the tasting flight (five types, B490-550) and the “house sausages” created to pair with the beers. Live jazz performances take place every Sunday at 4pm. 57 Phra Athit Rd., 02-629-5165. Open Mon-Fri 3pm-midnight, Sat-Sun noon-midnight Bottle Rocket
76/1 Phra Athit Rd., 086-085-5550. Open TueSun 5pm-midnight
Yolo Craft Beer Bar Here, familiar Thai bottles line the shelves, while the board indicates six different types of beer on offer each day (B220240/420ml glass—that’s almost a pint). We love the refreshing Paul Lemon Radler. There’s a pretty large variety of bottles too—Outlaw, Phee Bok, King Kong—and some ciders like Happy Monster and Brothers (prices range from B160-290). 140 Phra Athit Rd., 082-456-4499. Open Mon, WedSun 5pm-midnight Ku Bar
Yolo Craft Beer Bar
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cover story ART SPACES & MUSEUMS Thatian Gallery Through it takes some finding, this gallery along Maharaj Road is worth the effort. Thatien Gallery sits on the second floor of a souvenir shop which goes by the same name, created by local artist collective Art8tra. The gallery selects artwork by Thai artists, mostly paintings and drawings. They regularly feature the work of university students, also available for sale. 310 Maharaj Rd., 096-245-6292. Open Tue-Sun 10am-6pm
The Living Hertage Museum at Mahakan Fort
Lurking behind the seven-meter-high white concrete wall built by King Rama I is a living museum in which over 50 families continue to live and work. Twenty-six plaques explain the unique history of each building, while unique artifacts tell the lesser-known narrative of Bangkok history, indicating the living standards enjoyed by communities such as this one. The Living Heritage Museum at Mahakan Fort community is open to visitors daily while activities and tours take place on weekends from 9am-4pm. Mahakan Fort, 2 Soi Damrong Rak. Open daily 9am-6pm
Head in the Clouds Bang Khun Phrom Artspace Palace The Old Town’s new gallery-slash-cafe was renovated by Silapakorn University decorative art grads Thitiwal “Toey” ChaleomSangkul and Natnaree “Ploy” Siribanchawan. A cafe greets you on the first floor, while above is a gallery and art workshop studio. The gallery focuses on newbie Bangkok artists, while the workshop also hosts art-related events. 365/9 Phra Sumen Rd., 081-634-7616. Open Tue-Fri 11am-8pm, Sat-Sun 11am-9pm. www.fb.com/ headsinthecloud.artspace
Bangkok City Library The three-story, 4,950-sq-meter library is located in the newly-restored Ratchadamnoen Building on Rachadamnoen Road (near Khok Wua intersection). The B296-million renovation has preserved the building's high ceilings and neo-classical design. Expect an education center, a film and letters archive, an on-site cafe, computers for searching e-books and, of course, plenty of open-floor reading space. Open from 8am-midnight. Membership costs just B10. 39 Ratchadamnoen Klang Rd., 02-282-0680. Open Tue-Sun 8am-9pm
Situated by the Chao Phraya River, Bang Khun Phrom Palace is a 100-year-old residence which belonged to Prince Boribhat Sukhumbhandi, considered one of the most beautiful and well-preserved colonial-style residences in the country. Standing on the grounds of the Bank of Thailand, the palace is already open for public visits completely free of charge. Group appointments must be made two weeks in advance from Mon-Fri between 9-12pm and 1-4pm, while walk-ins are scheduled every Sat at 10:30am-noon and 1-4pm.
Head in the Clouds
273 Samsen Rd., 02-283-5353
Bank of Thailand Learning Center COMING SOON
Mahakan Fort
Taking over what used to be the original building of Thailand’s Note Printing Works (under the Rama 8 Bridge, opposite the Bank of Thailand), the Bank of Thailand (BOT) Learning Center aims to nurture and inspire students and academia by acting as a hub of economic knowledge and financial literacy. We’re most excited about the Prince Vivadhanajaya Library, where the public can access the Bank of Thailand’s archive of historical documents.
Bangkok City Library
273, Samsen Rd., 02-283-5286. Open Mon-Fri 9am-4pm
Bang Khun Phrom Palace
BEAUTIFUL NEW HOTELS PERFECT FOR A STAYCATION
RIVA ARUN
CHANN BOUTIQUE
RAWEEKANLAYA BANGKOK
SSIP BOUTIQUE DHEVEJ BANGKOK
Hidden in the same soi as Blue Whale cafe, this boutique hotel boasts a charming colonial-style design from Soda Thailand. The 25-room Riva Arun is located close to landmarks like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho and faces the majestic Wat Arun along the Chao Phraya River. While almost every single room comes with a great view of the temples and old buildings in the Tha Tien community, the contemporary suites are equipped with outdoor Jacuzzis facing Wat Arun. Rates start at B2,990/night for the Riva Arun Studio.
Hidden in the small alleys by Bangkok Noi canal, Chann features Thai-style architecture that pays homage to the surrounding riverside community, dating back to the Ayutthaya and Thonburi eras. The hotel is made up of two-story wooden houses, featuring 18 rooms and four special suites that range in size from 30-45 sq meters. Rates start at B4,599 right now for non-river-view rooms, but they also have special rates for Thai residents available from now through Oct 31 when you use the promo code THRES on www.channbangkoknoi.com.
This 1920s colonial-style mansion is one of the few remaining Thai residences on Phitsanulok Road, nor far from the Dusit Palace. That also means that the 19-room boutique hotel features antique four-poster beds, dining tables, chairs and utensils. The breakfast includes royal Thai cuisine that uses vegetables freshly picked from the on-site organic farm. Rates start from B2,200/night.
392/25-26 Maharaj Rd., 02-221-1188. www.snhotels. com/snc/rivaarun
30/1 Wat Dusitaram, Somdej Phra Pin Klao Rd., 02435-5997
Originally built in the late 1800s as the residence of King Rama 6, this boutique hotel features 38 rooms, each inspired by a poem from Thai literature. There is also an on-site Imperial Spa that offers traditional Thai massages, a swimming pool featuring four comfy sunbeds, and a pool bar that serves up healthy juices. Its restaurant, Raweekanlaya Dining (see page 4), uses organically-sourced produce and features garden where guests can pick their own ingredients. Rates start from B2,600/night. If you book 15 days in advance, you’ll also get an extra 35 percent discount on your room, and receive complimentary breakfast.
42 Phitsanulok Rd., 02-228-2899. www.ssiphotelthailand.com
164-172 Krung Kasem Rd., 02-628-5999
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escapes
GUIDES
ESCAPE ROUTES By Lily Kittisrikangwan
June
Cafe Society 2017 Bangkok’s coolest hangout spots for brunch, coffee, sweets and all-day bites.
August
KOH KOOD
Secret Retreat When Bangkok’s dollar millionaires have a weekend with an empty schedule, they check into Koh Kood’s hidden-away all-villa resort, Soneva Kiri, where rates start from B30,000 a night even in the down season. While their new two-night Thai residents’ package is no sabai deal at B89,000, we do reckon it nets you a saving of about B45,000. Mostly because it includes round-trip private flights between Bangkok and the island, which usually go for B13,500 each way (flying time of 90 mins). On top of that, you get dinner for two (that’s another B7,000), 50-minute spa treatments, and if you have a kid under 12, they can come along for free. If you’re lucky and the super luxurious Beach Pool Villa Suite’s not booked out, they’ll even bump you up to that—usual nightly rate, B62,500. Set within the lush rainforest on the most exclusive and private part of Koh Kood, Soneva Kiri features jungle-luxe pool villas, an open-air cinema and private dining pods nestled in treetops. Best of all, the Gulf of Thailand still enjoys plenty of sunny days all the way through August. Ask for the Sabai Sabai Plus package when booking before Jun 30 at +91-124-451-1000 or email reservations@soneva.com. Valid for stays through Sep 30.
September
November
PHUKET
Stay a While Just opened on Kata Beach, The SIS Kata (www.fb.com/thesiskata) offers a swanky stay at a refreshingly low price point. The name means "Stay In Style" and the resort's 124 guest rooms and two suites come in a nautical white and blue color scheme with contemporary chevron patterns throughout. For bookings before Jul 31, rooms start at just B2,199/night inclusive of breakfast for two, applicable for stays through Oct 31. The highlight of the property is the spectacular inifinity free-form swimming pool, with its 3,000 underwater lights. You'll also find six restaurants and bars on-site that serve up local dishes with international twists and take advantage of the Kata sunset over the Andaman Sea. For craft cocktails and beers, there's the trendy Z Bar Plus, while Stella helps you detox with healthy salads and juices.
ON THE COVER
Phi Phi island
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March’18
PATTAYA
By the Beach Joining a slew of stylish openings that have dramatically changed the seaside town, Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa (bit. ly/2n2HVFH) takes over prime beachfront land on Na Jomtien. Inspired by the local fishing village, the resort integrates wood and metal, emphasizing earthy tones with hints of cobalt blue. Scheduled to open Sep 1, the 257-room resort comes equipped with two outdoor swimming pools, a luxury spa, and as F&B options like 609 Kitchen restaurant and Pebbles Bar & Grill. Room rates start at B4,500 for the deluxe room with mountain views or B5,200/night including breakfast. Other spots to check out in the area include Skoop Beach Cafe, A La Campagne, The Glass House, Mimosa Pattaya and Cartoon Network Amazone. It's also just minutes away from the cliff-side restaurants Rimpa Lapin and Preecha Seafood.
December
MALDIVES
Go Low
Good news for budget travelers. From Aug 11 onwards, Thai AirAsia will finally operate direct flights between Bangkok-Male (as opposed to the previous layover in KL) with prices starting as low as B1,990 one-way. While this is inclusive of airport taxes, you should note promo prices come in limited supply so you might need to be flexible with your dates. We managed to find single legs priced from B2,990-4,990. Flights depart from Don Mueang Airport at 9:30am and leave from Male International Airport at 12:30pm daily. The promotional prices can be booked through Jun 25.
Reach affluent urbanites through trusted publications with a six-month to one-year shelf-life. To be featured in our upcoming 2017-2018 guides, contact us at advertising@asia-city.co.th, 02-624-9654 1/2V_VHP 2.indd 1
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BK Magazine Friday, June 23, 2017
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avenue SHOPPING
Old School Candy Candy colors are becoming a big trend on Siam Square. After hosting the recent opening of Matchbox Pinkplanter’s large pink house, Siam Square Soi 11 has just welcomed a new ‘90s-style, pastel-colored shop from Instagram-famous retailer Daddy and the Muscle Academy. Inside, old-school details abound such as the school lockers used as product shelves and vintage paintings on the wall. Grab the girly “Ellie” dress at B1,590, the cute “Academy” T-shirt (B590) or the painted “Juli Baker and Summer” tote (B1,500). Siam Square Soi 11, 063-894-6954. BTS Siam
FASHION
SPA
BEAUTY
Sexy Back
Pretty Peach
Real Madrid
Fashionistas who think the “Palm Springs Backpack” from Louis Vuitton’s last season wasn’t substantial enough may be tempted by the French luxury house’s new “Monogram Empreinte Sorbonne Backpack,” made of stamped soft leather and available in three easy-to-match colors: cerise, noir and rose poudre. It features a 27x25cm body, a top handle, slings at the back and a front zip pocket. The noir version might even look sleek enough to pass as unisex. The Sorbonne retails for B85,500 (full leather, that’s why) and is available in all three colors only at Emporium. M/F, The Emporium, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-664-7272. BTS Phrom Phong
Treatments derived from summery, juicy peach are all the rage. Now, Cenvaree Spa offers a two-hour pampering session using exclusively made-from-peach products for every step: body scrub, soothing body massage, even foot massage. The spa treatments don’t only capitalize on the peach’s fruity smell; the fruit is also packed with antioxidants that benefit the skin. The course is B2,950 with a complimentary bottle of peach lotion. 25/F, Centara Grand at CentralWorld, Rama 1 Rd., 02-100-6299
For the Earth-cherishing, organic-loving individual, Thai high-end spa brand Ryn has launched a new line of products that promise to banish cellulite without resorting to chemicals. At B950/250ml, the Madrid Mercado Body Wash looks just perfect on your bathroom shelf, and features a blend of ginger extract, vitamin C-rich grapefruit, rejuvenating collagen, nourishing seaweed extract and red pepper to burn fat (they don’t tell you that at Virgin Active). Other must-haves from the collection include a body scrub (B1,550/200ml) and body lotion (B1,250/250ml). 4/F, The Helix Quartier, EmQuartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-269-1000.
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BK Magazine Friday, June 23, 2017
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k
ories.
avenue GYMS
No Sweat
True Fitness might have gone bust, but there are plenty of new places to work out. Here are Bangkok's hottest openings. By Kasidit Srivilai Physique 57
Samyan gym
Form Fitness and Rehab
Physique 57
Asoke’s Form Fitness and Rehab is all about getting you back in the gym safely after injuries or other health-related issues. Its founder, Partha Mazumder, earned his credentials as a certified personal trainer from the American College of Sports Medicine, and now offers courses tailored to various rehab requirements, from post-pregnancy workout to training with diabetes, all designed in collaboration with in-house physiotherapists. They also do basic gym programs, with personal training offered at the promotional rate of B3,500 for three sessions, group training at B600 per session and private group training at B750 per session. Book online for a free assessment.
After making its Southeast Asian debut at Erawan Bangkok in 2015, New York’s celeb-endorsed barre studio Physique 57 has now branched out to Thonglor. The new studio sits on the second floor of RQ Residence, also home to the all-in-one fitness hub of The Racquet Club. Its ballet-inspired workouts combine intervals of cardio, strength training, stretching and recovery. For newbies, they’re offering a twoclass package at B1,000 or an eight-class one at B6,000, to be used in one month. Regular drop-ins cost B1,000.
Polaris Tower, Sukhumvit Soi 20, 061-470-6305. www.formfitnessrehab.com
Play Out Studio
Jareonthong Muaythai Khaosan Muay Thai legend Jareonthong Kiatbanchong has expanded his boxing gym to a new branch on Tanee Road, close to the popular backpacker street Khaosan. On top of the splashy new indoor gym, Jareonthong Muaythai Khaosan also offers a rooftop training area with a perfect view of Wat Chana Songkram temple and Bangkok’s Old Town. Courses vary from beginner to advanced, plus ancient muay Thai and muay Thai Waikru classes. Drop-in class fees are B600 for 1.5 hours or B1,200 for a private session.
RQ Residence, Sukhumvit Soi 49/9, 083-0342857. www.fb.com/physique57bkk
Asoke’s colorful beach-inspired workout studio specializes in indoor surf yoga— that’s yoga practiced on surfboard simulators to test your balance. As well as surf yoga and surf-set balance, Play Out Studio also offers more specialist classes that combine muscle-building techniques. During the Surfset Build class, they promise you’ll burn around 400-600 kcal. Single drop-in classes costs B690, while unlimited monthly membership is B5,490. The studio also offers your first session free.
Jareonthong Muaythai Khaosan
Samyan gym This Silom gym looks more like a sexy bar. With strip-lights, an exposed industrial ceiling and dark palette of gray on gray, lifting in Sam-Yan Gym feels like working out in a nightclub, while facilities—from freeweight stations to cardio machines—are just as advanced. Six-month membership costs a Virgin Active-beating B16,000 or pay B28,999 for a yearly plan. For that you also get access to classes like BodyPump (60 mins of moderate resistance barbell training), RPM (spinning) and boxing training. 3/F, Liberty Square, Silom Rd., 086-401-4392. www.samyangym.com. BTS Sala Daeng
Training Ground The second branch of Bangkok's biggest CrossFit and fitness facility Training Ground sits near Rama 4 Road. Like the original, it takes over a vast warehouse, this time with some 600 sq meters of space (half the size of the original Phra Kanong facility). With this new branch, Training Ground is looking to expand CrossFit to a broader Thai audience. All-access membership costs B4,500/ month, while open-gym membership starts at B3,000/month.
Playout Studio
3789 Rama 4 Rd., 02-035-8359. www.traininggroundbkk.com
B1/F, Interchange 21 Tower, Sukhumvit Rd., 082-585-4000. www.fb.com/playoutstudio. MRT Asoke/BTS Sukhumvit
Tanee Rd., 02-629-2313. www.jaroenthongmuaythaikhaosan.com
Training Ground
INTERIOR Spice things up at work with these on-desk accessories
Peacock leather pen, Hay, B565
Cube stapler, Tom Dixon, B4,100
3/F, Siam Discovery, Rama 1 Rd.
Available at Motif, 4/F, Central Embassy, Phloen Chit Rd.
Starfish, Hay, B1,590 3/F, Siam Discovery, Rama 1 Rd.
Tray, Pacific Connections, B22,000 Available at Motif, 4/F,Central Embassy, Phloen Chit Rd.
Copper lamp, Hay, B23,000 3/F, Siam Discovery, Rama 1 Rd.
Baies diffuser set, Diptyque, B6,900 M/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd.
BK Magazine Friday, June 23, 2017
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bites & blends
RESTAURANT
Pasta Master Taking one of the nicknames of Bologna city, La Dotta is the latest—and most pocket-friendly—baby of the Foodie Collection group (Vesper, Il Fumo). At this minute pasta house, most dishes come in at under B400 and there's no service charge. Sicilian-born chef Giampiero Quartararo whips up the pasta on-site daily. When a dish calls for dried pasta instead, he sticks solely to organic products. The open-plan kitchen doles out creations like the indulgent tortelloni 4 Formaggi (four-cheese, B340), served with Parmigiano-Reggiano fondue, and five-spiced duck ragu pici (B360). Don’t miss the flavorful tortelloni Bolognese (B370), which is filled with 24-month-aged Parmigiano-Reggiano and Parma ham and served with a subtle butter and sage sauce. A compact bar sits on the mezzanine, where you can get refreshing twists of Italian classics using fresh fruits. Beer and natural wines are available here, too. Drop by on weekdays for a lunch set starting at B290 for two courses. 161/6 Thonglor Soi 9, 02-392-8688. Open Tue-Sun 11am-2:30pm, 5-11pm. BTS Thong Lo
EVENT
RESTAURANT
WINE
Star Dinner
Harvest Moon
Bottle Shop
This Jun 27-Jul 1, Jojo welcomes French-Pakistani chef Sylvestre Wahid of L'Hôtel Thoumieux restaurant in Paris. Seasonal ingredients take a lead role in Wahid’s cuisine, alongside French techniques and beautiful plating. In awarding Wahid’s restaurant two stars, Michelin Guide inspectors waxed lyrical over dishes like cucumber water and vegetable cannelloni, and three preparations of cèpes in tribute to autumn. To try what he has in store for Bangkok, sign up for a seven-course lunch (B3,800; another B2,500 for wine pairing) or eight-course dinner (B5,800; another B3,000 for wine pairing). St. Regis Hotel, 159 Ratchadamri Rd., 02-207-7815. Open daily noon-3pm, 6-11pm. BTS Ratchadamri
Ratchaburi's hip organic melon farm, Coro Field, has branched out by opening a restaurant in Bangkok. Coro Harvest's menu centers on fruits sourced from the farm, namely melon, purple sweet potato, tomatoes and salad greens. Heavy-hitters include the melon katsuo (fresh melon with dried fish flakes and balsamic vinegar, B45) and Holland cherry tomato salad (B145). This is not a clean-food cafe, though. The fried purple sweet potato wedges (B145) are served with three dipping sauces while the Northern-style nam prik orng (tomato dip) comes with roti (B175). Try their well-flavored tomato soy milk smoothie (B115), too. 3/F, Esplanade Ratchada, 99 Ratchadapisek Rd., 02-660-9341. Open daily 10am-10pm. www.corofield.com
On the face of it, Warp (part of the Water Library group) looks like just another wine shop, but there are some things here really stand out. First off, it offers some affordable niche Champagne. We’re talking B1,900 for a growers’ label like Goutorbe-Bouillot Brut Rose. Secondly, you can actually drink here and even avoid the Thonglor nightlife curfew. Buy bottles at retail price, pull up a table, and the management promise they’ll stay open as late as you like. You can even order up food from any of the Marketplace restaurants . Wines like Bourgoge Chardonnay 2014 (B1,490) and Stephane Aviron Morgon Cote du Py 2014 (B1,650) are also a bargain. Drop by weekends for free tasting flights throughout Jun. Marketplace, Thonglor Soi 4, 065-513-8399. Open daily 10am-10pm
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BK Magazine Friday, June 23 2017
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bites www.changchuibangkok.com
RESTAURANTS
Coming Soon New F&B openings to keep an eye on. By Natcha Sanguankiattichai Supanniga x Roots
Banh Mi Bo Opening: August Where: 762 Sukhumvit Rd. Price: B The Vietnamese sandwich specialist left its original spot on Sukhumvit Soi 33/1 in February for a new, bigger home on Sukhumvit’s main drag (between Soi 30/1 and 32). The graband-go concept remains the same, though, with a bigger menu and few more tables on-site. The construction is still ongoing with a plan to finish in August.
Birds Rotisserie Opening: July Where: Soi Amorn, Nang Linchi Rd. Price: BB-BBB El Mercado’s French chef Jeremy Tourret has left the market-bistro to open his own place on Nang Linchi Road. As the name suggests, the restaurant will focus on roast chicken, as well as other healthy organic food.
Burger and Lobster Opening: TBA Where: Gaysorn Village, 999 Phloen Chit Rd. Price: BBB-BBBB The renowned UK chain is now coming our way. Those who have visited the UK might be familiar with the brand, known for offering only three items: hamburgers, whole lobsters (poached or baked) and lobster rolls. The affordable prices for quality lobsters also mean regular queues for tables. Founded in 2011 by Russian owners in Mayfair, London, the chain has now expanded to 20 branches in the UK and internationally, including Dubai, Stockholm, New York and Genting Highlands in Malaysia.
Changwon Express at Flow House Opening: August Where: Flow House, A Square, Sukhumvit Soi 26. Price: BB The indie Korean craft beer bar on the far end of Asoke is branching out. With the recent launch of two canned beers under its own name, Changwon Express is now fully supporting local brews. The new place will be located inside Flow House on Sukhumvit Soi 26 (where Chang Bar was to be), serving 30 taps of Thai craft beer alongside big slices of New York-style pizza. Set to open in August.
Insects in the Backyard Opening: End of June Where: Chang Chui, 462 Sirindhorn Rd. Price: BB-BBB Bangkok will soon welcome a new restaurant dedicated to edible insects—a trend that’s been creeping onto menus globally of late thanks to places like Noma. Insects in the Backyard sits
Insects in the Backyard
in Thonburi’s soon-to-open art complex, Chang Chui, and has been conceptualized by the team behind the Old Town’s beloved Seven Spoons. So, rest assured the food will be a little different to the fried insects we’re familiar with on the street. Chef Thitiwat Tantragarn will serve the likes of cricket pasta with pesto and chorizo, red ant and peppercorn-marinated tomahawk steak and Marou chocolate-covered crickets.
Koi Opening: August Where: 39/F, Sathorn Square, 98 Sathorn Rd. Price: BBB-BBBB The closure of Signature in 2015 has left a restaurant void in Sathorn Square which, happily, is now going to be filled by another Japanese restaurant. US-born Koi jazzes up its traditional dishes like wagyu carpaccio with yuzu dressing, lobster tacos with yuzu guacamole, quinoa croquette with edamame cream and braised short ribs with plum wine reduction. They also promise a bar with a proper sommelier and sake specialist.
Banh Mi Bo
NEW OPENINGS
Ministry of Crab Opening: End of the year Where: Sukhumvit Soi 33 Price: BBB On Asia’s “50 Best Restaurants” list for a few years now, the Sri Lankan crab specialist offers its signature crab in four ways: chilli crab, pepper crab, garlic crab and Sri Lankan crab curry. Chef Dharshan Munidasa has stopped by Bangkok a few times, and rumor has it that Sukhumvit Soi 31 is getting a Ministry of Crab by the end of the year.
Penthouse Bar & Grill Opening: July Where: Park Hyatt, 88 Wireless Rd. Price: BBBB Walnut woods, pale marble, leathers and antique mirror ceilings high above the city play host to the three tiers of restaurants and bars at Bangkok’s hottest new hotel opening. Penthouse Bar and Grill features a vintage car-racing themed cocktail lounge complete with an “antechamber”, or secret room, hidden behind a walnut panel. In here, we’re being told of red-tiled walls sourced from Chiang Mai, Macassar-ebony wood and classic button-tufted leather. The pale marble-clad grill restaurant serves premium meat, while there’s also a garden-styled roof terrace.
Supanniga x Roots Opening: July 1 Where: Riva Arun, 392/25-26 Maharaj Rd. Price: BB-BBB We know the name “Supanniga” for its casual chic locations and reliable Thai food. But if there’s one thing missing from the restaurants, it’s the view. The third branch of Supanniga sits on the riverside deck of Tha Tien’s Riva Arun. On top of the food, you can get Roots’s fine coffee here.
BEN’S COOKIES
Where: Siam Paragon, 991/1 Rama 1 Rd. Price: B Another popular brand from the UK has announced its opening at Siam Paragon. Known for its daily-baked, palm-sized soft cookies featuring chocolate chunks instead of tiny chips, the cookie brand—characterized by its red color and a cartoon boy—has more than 10 grab-and-go cookie shops in the motherland. It has also spread to New York, the Middle East and a few of our East Asian neighbors including Seoul, Singapore and Tokyo. IHOP
Where: Siam Paragon, 991/1 Rama 1 Rd. Price: BB-BBB At the tail-end of 2016, we reported that the all-American breakfast specialist would be opening in Bangkok before the end of the year. Well, that didn’t quite happen. Though the venue on the ground floor is already settled up with tables and branding, we’re informed that they’re facing problems with importing ingredients, hence the delay. Known for its breakfast items served all day and its extra-long hours (some branches even stay open 24/7), IHOP has more than 1,600 locations across the US, Canada and Asia. On top of its signature stack of five buttermilk pancakes, it also serves French toast, crepes, omelets, sandwiches and breakfast plates.
BK Magazine Friday, June 23 2017
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OPEN DOOR
Rico Spanish tapas with a North-African edge overlooking the British Embassy. The buzz: Open House at Central Embassy’s latest foodie player does tapas-portioned Spanish dishes with Moorish influence amid beautiful tiles and alfresco views. The decor: Sitting on the balcony side complete with outdoor tables, the open-plan restaurant benefits from natural light and stunning city views. Clad in Spanish tiles, the indoor space with its open kitchen, soaring ceiling and vibrant yellow paint job is equally stunning. The food: North African influences are underpinned by a Mediterranean base in Rico’s tapas plates, like hints of cumin in the green chermoula sauce that seasons the roast cauliflower salad with almonds, pickled raisins and confit tomatoes (B220). Spanish ingredients like quince, piquillo pepper,
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chorizo and manchego cheese play their part in dishes like the charred sous-vide octopus with piquillo pepper, potatoes, chickpea, glazed fennel and pickles (B480) and pan-roasted scallops with cauliflower puree, green apple and Spanish morcilla (blood chorizo, B480). The chef also serves Spanish staples like gazpacho (cold soup), here in the form of a granita on fresh oysters, with herb oil and pickles (B170 a piece). Savory churros feature goat cheese and olive dough, served with quince aioli (B280). For something meaty, try the braised beef short rib with tempranillo wine and mashed potato (B450). Desserts stick to the classics like crema Catalana (B240), churros (B220) and Spanish-style baked lemon cheesecake (B240).
The drinks: Red and white sangria is available at B190/ glass (B500/jug) while Spanish cava wine starts at B290 by the glass. Cocktails also take a Spanish route, like the Kalimoxto (red wine, coca cola, lemon, B190) and Mediterranean spritz (elderflower liqueur, cucumber, olive juice and prosecco, B320). Why we’d come back: The goat cheese churros alone are worth repeat visits. Rico also fills a light gap between the cafe fare of Open House’s central vestibule and the hearty plates of Peppina and Meat Bar. Natcha Sanguankiattichai Central Embassy, F/6, 02-119-7777. Open daily 10am-10pm
BK Magazine Friday, June 23, 2017
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Brasserie Cordonnier
Shabeebee Roti Cha
Little Baker
The Blooming Gallery
NEW AND NOTED
All Nighter Shabeebee Roti-Cha (Suanluang Square, 20 lot 16, Chulalongkorn Soi 12) is a 24-hour restaurant that serves Thai-Muslim dishes made according to old family recipes. The low-key setting belies full-flavored halal offerings like chicken massaman curry (B80) and beef panang curry (B90), which you can top off with naan bread (B35), paratha (B35) or rice (B15). Sets are priced at B90-B240 and see a variety of curries and sides served up on oldschool steel trays. Do also try some shabeebee (Indian milk tea, B40) or the delicious sweet murtabak (stuffed pancake, B80).
Soi Soho Soho Hospitality (Above Eleven, Charcoal, Havana Social) moves into casual French dining with its latest opening, Brasserie Cordonnier (33/30 Sukhumvit Soi 11, 094-970-8599). Previously in the kitchen at J’aime, chef
TABLE TALK
Clement Hernandez rolls out French classics with his own touches, including the Australian wagyu beef tartare with confit egg yolk and porcini oil (B460) and lobster bisque with sweet corn and pickled baby corn (B290). Group mixologist Davide Sambo completes the experience with French-inspired cocktails like La Vie En Rose (rose petal-infused Bacardi, yellow Chartreuse, lemon juice and rose essence, B300).
Well Baked Online cupcake specialist Little Baker (Ladphrao Soi 5, 094-296-1429) has opened its own shop in Ladphrao. Here, the cupcakes come topped with cutesy sugar cookies resembling things like Minions and Pokemon. Don't miss the decadent brownie cupcakes (B650/4 pieces) filled with ingredients such as Oreos, peanut butter and cheese cake. Fondant cakes start at B1,290 for a halfpound, while bubblegum-flavored fizzy drinks (B90) are also on offer. Neon Boonyadhammakul and Pavisporn Potchana
LG/F, Eight Thonglor, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 02-063-5508. Open Sun-Tue 10am-10pm; Wed-Sat 10am-midnight With its glasshouse setting and forest-like dangling ferns and flowers, this tea spot has an artistic edge. The menu takes influence from Monet’s impressionist paintings, serving 22 teas such as Original Mommy’s Nursing Tea (banana blossom, ginger, black pepper) and My Dear Rose (rose fruit tea). There are also comforting dishes like purple sweet potato fries with hondachi and homemade truffle sauce, kaprao quinoa and English scones. Drop by at night for cocktails. Exclusively for Citi credit card members Get 10% discount on food only when spending THB 1,000 or more /sales slip Today - 31 Dec 17
BK Magazine Friday, June 23, 2017
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bites FOOD REVIEWS
Thyme
HHHH
International. 411/2 Nang Linchi Rd., 02-678-1333. Opening daily 11:30am-11pm. Corkage B400. F BBB-BBBB
Trendy and flavorless, Thyme collects an exhaustive list of food and decor cliches under one roof. Why proudly feature your chef’s name on the menu if that menu lists Anglo comfort food (burgers, bangers and mash, fish and chips) alongside gloopy plates of pasta and a sprinkling of Spanish tapas and paella dishes? This is about as chef-driven a selection as S&P’s. And why bother with a bartender when asking him for a “spirit-forward drink like an old fashioned or negroni” gets you lemon juice and syrup poured into a tumbler full of ice (B380)? Follow up question: how long must one keep a sprig of thyme in Tupperware for it to entirely lose its aroma? The same could be asked of much of the produce here. There’s a bland tuna tartare (B260) that had us attempt a resuscitation with Tabasco and a salvaged wedge of lemon from
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The Tongkeungui HHHH
Korean. 218/7 Siam Square Soi 1 (opposite Scala), 02-252-8392. BTS Siam. Free Corkage. BB-BBB
In the last couple of years, Siam has grown to rival Sukhumvit Soi 12 as a Korean dining hub. Amid all the trending dessert openings, one of the most recent arrivals is The To n g k e u n g u i , a b l a c k- t h e m e d barbecue restaurant. The four-story shop -house comes fronted with massive signage showing a three-tier cake stand where the scones and pastries have been replaced with prime cuts of meat. That gives a good idea of what to expect here: beef and pork, and plenty of it. Pork cuts such as skirt meat (B299), belly (B299) and collar (B350) taste perfectly fresh and flavorful. (You can also order sets from B788-1,188). The beef rib finger (B450), too, is tender and springy,
another dish. (We failed.) It comes with little slices of tortilla piled with whitish, waterlogged tomatoes. Flavor: none. The “calamari” deepfried in batter (B220) did taste of oil, but not much else. The handful of lotus slices that made their way into the dish seemed to say, “This isn’t just a bad fritto misto, it’s a bad fritto misto with a modern, Southeast Asian touch!” We do like the gazpacho (B190), because clearly, it’s not made with the fresh tomatoes involved in the tuna tartare. It’s not often that canned tomatoes are the preferred option. We remember happier days here, when Victor Burgos, who’s since fled and opened his own place, Arroz, led the kitchen. We don’t think he’d have approved of the quarter rack of lamb (B900) from our last visit at Thyme. It was cooked to the medium rare we ordered, but one piece tasted of nothing, one had some odd flavor, like freezer burn. Nor can we recommend the Iberican Secreto (B690), a rather sad, dry slice of pork that had us hankering for kor moo yang. Look around and the place is a Pinterest board of tired design fads, all wood and dangling ferns and black ink illustrations on the menu. But locals seem to have voted with their feet as to whether that’s reason enough to visit. Save for two groups in the private rooms, we were the only table on a Wednesday night.
great with the tangy ssamjang (bean paste). If there’s any problem with the barbecue side of things it’s that service is just too efficient. On our last visit, staff were so eager to grill everything, we had to tell them to slow down. While the meat is undoubtedly tasty, don’t expect much from the other dishes. The tokpokki soup that comes with their signature set (B788) is sad, watery and overly sweet. Dry and dull, the seafood pajeon (Korean pancake, B250) is a similarly uninspired effort, that when we visited didn’t even come with dipping sauce. One dish that’s a little more successful is the rich, slightly sour tasting volcano fried rice (B350), which is basically kimchi fried rice surrounded by omelet. For dessert, we tried to order bingsu but it had already sold out by 6pm on Sunday. If you compare the bill at The Tongkeungui with a long-standing Korean institution in the area like Kongju, we’d probably stick with the o l d - t i m e r, w h i c h h a s a n i c e r atmosphere to boot . If you can overlook the hectic and unreliable service (due to the high volume of customers, to be fair), this is a very solid, if unspectacular Korean barbecue restaurant.
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.
Symbols
H Reservations recommended F Parking available E Dress requirements G Live music
BK Magazine Friday, June 23, 2017
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now FRI Artist’s Studio You’re the cultured, BK-reading, art-loving type, which means you need to spend at least one day this weekend at the Hotel Art Fair (Jun 23-25) when it takes over the Volve Hotel. That’s on Sukhumvit Soi 53, so you can head to Wood Ball when you get bored. See page 18.
FRI Ooh Baby It’s finally time: Britney Spears jets into town for two performances on Jul 23 and 24. But you already knew that and bought tickets. Unless you didn’t, in which case you’re screwed because they sold out months ago. See page 18
FRI On the Lam Two gigs for you to choose from at Studio Lam this weekend: one, house and techno music on Fri Jun 23; the other, world music with Manchester-based producer Cervet on Jun 24. That means 33 percent of the parties worth writing about this issue are at Studio Lam. Let’s hope they don’t piss off any cops. See page 18.
SAT Got the Funk Silom party space Whiteline throws open its shutters Jun 24 for the latest edition of Dope As Funk. So don your favorite snap-back, brush up on your ‘90s hip-hop hits and get down there. See page 18.
FRI Robot Rock Thanks to the lovely people at YenakArt Villa, a swanky private gallery hidden down one of Sathorn’s leafiest streets, you can have your portrait sketched by a robot on Jun 28. His name’s Paul and he was created by German engineer Patrick Tresset. The results are weirdly awesome. See page 19.
BK Magazine Friday, June 23, 2017
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now NIGHTLIFE
LIVE MUSIC
Stylish Nonsense
Young Man and the Sea
Mark Redito
FUTURE SOUND OF BANGKOK
CERVO (BANANA HILL/UK)
A night of house and techno music from DJs Krit Morton and NK Chan, with an opening act from live bands Ahivar, Tatexpression and Yklp Xox. Jun 23, 9pm. Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. B100-200. BTS Thong Lo.
The Manchester-based electronic music producer and DJ plays his signature sound combining world music-like vocals and instruments, with support from Dangdut Banget (Zudrangma Records). Jun 24, 9pm. Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. Free. BTS Thong Lo.
NOTORIOUS BLING
A night dedicated to old school hiphop beats from DJ Kurrypup. Dress code is "gangsta," "thug life" and "back in the days" Jun 23, 9pm. Le Cafe des Stagiaires, 142/21 Sathorn Soi 12, 081-207-3077. Free. BTS Chong Nonsi. KUROTEN & DAN BURI PRESENT: LAST MOSAIC
A night of chest-thumping techno from DJs Kuroten and Dan Buri. Jun 23, 10pm. Whiteline, Silom Soi 8, 087-061-1117. B250. BLUNTSKULL MEETS BKRAS SOUND
The reggae and hip-hop artist from Saigon hosts a night of '90s boombap, dubplates and junglist vibes. He'll be joined by supporting acts BKRas Sound and Olbi Iyah. Jun 24, 7pm. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451833. B150. BTS Surasak.
DOPE AS FUNK: NO SLEEP TILL BANGKOK
The hip-hop party crew returns for another night of old- school '90s music courtesy of DJs Sir Walt & Slomororo, Tommy Nori, Ehh Kay and Aopsher. Jun 24, 10pm. Whiteline, Silom Soi 8, 087-061-1117. B300 (includes one drink). BTS Chong Nonsi. HYHBKK: MARK REDITO (FKA SPAZZKID) LIVE!
The producer and DJ plays hyper dance, J-pop-inspired tracks, including cuts from his hit album "Desire". Jun 28, 8pm. Future Factory, Phahon Yothin Rd., 098-253-9356. B600. HAIR OF THE DOG PHLOEN CHIT SECOND ANNIVERSARY
Celebrate the second birthday of the craft beer bar with a series of great promotions including 50 percent discount on all 13 taps between 4-7pm. Jun 30, 4pm. Hair of the
Mikkeller
Dog, 2/F, Mahatun Plaza, 888/26 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-650-7589. Free. BTS Phloen Chit. DISCO DIARIES - MERCIE ET ADIEU
A night of funk, soul, disco and house from a lineup of local DJs before the popular club and live music venue closes down permanently. Price TBA. Jun 30, 9pm. Live RCA Bangkok, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 098974-6974. THE NONSENSE OF THE PONG
Live music from local bands Stylish Nonsense, The Sangsom Massacre, Maitri and Johnny Loda Trio, plus support from DJ Kofty. Jun 30, 9pm. Black Pagoda, Patpong Soi 2. B250. BTS Sala Daeng. 4TH OF JULY
The craft beer bar celebrates Independence Day with 30 taps of fresh beers from American breweries including Modern Times Brewing, Mikkeller San Diego, Ale Smith and more. Jul 1-5, 3pm. Mikkeller, 26 Ekkamai Soi 10, 02-381-9891. Free.
The Sangsom Massacre
gigs
The Rocket Science
concerts
NOWHERE END #16 - ISLAND OF THE DOGS
A night of live music from the Indonesian grunge rock band, who'll be joined by local bands The Sangsom Massacre, The Rocket Science and Gede Robi. Jun 23, 8pm. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833. B200. BTS Surasak. LOMFON
Rock bands The Caption, Young Man and the Sea, 2549 and Sasi perform at the riverside art space. Jun 24, 7pm. Soy Sauce Factor y, 11/1 Charoenkrung Soi 24, 061-835-6824. B200. LIVE JAZZ BAND
Local jazz trio, The Band, perform their signature blend of Latin and Brazilian pop jazz. Jun 24, 9pm. Le Cafe des Stagiaires, 142/21 Sathorn Soi 12, 081-207-3077. Free. BTS Chong Nonsi.
BRITNEY SPEARS
The American pop diva makes her long-awaited Bangkok debut as part of her world tour to promote her ninth studio album, Glory, promising performances of new hit singles like "Make Me..." through to '90s favorites like "Toxic" and "Oops... I Did it Again." Jun 24, 6pm. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4455. B3,500 from Thaiticketmajor.
classical LEGENDS AND FANTASIES
The Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra, along with guest conductor Thanapol Setabramana, performs music from all-time favorite animation and video games. Jun 23-24, 4pm. Prince Mahidol Hall, Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd. 02-849-6565. B100-500.
ART Hotel Art Fair returns this weekend If you go to one art exhibition this weekend (Jun 23-25), make it Hotel Art Fair. Since 2013, Farmgroup design consultancy firm has been taking over hotels across the city in collaboration with Bangkok’s top galleries. Each participant gets its own room to curate basically however it chooses, and this year has one of the biggest lineups yet. Since it’s taking place at Volve Hotel on Sukhumvit Soi 53, you won’t have to trek far from Thonglor to check out exhibits from Maiiam Contemporary Art Museum, Gallery Seescape, Atta Gallery, Gallery Ver, H Gallery, Bangkok City City, YenakArt Villa and 23 others. You’ll find us in the YenakArt room, having our picture sketched by a robot artist called Paul who’ll be doing portraits all weekend. This is the fifth time Bangkok’s hosted the Hotel Art Fair. As always, admission is free. Volve Hotel Bangkok, 26/1 Sukhumvit Soi 53, 02-000-1000. Neon Boonyadhammakul
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BK Magazine Friday, June 23, 2017
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now NEWS
One Republic is Coming to Bangkok
FILM
Opening
TRANSFORMERS: THE LAST KNIGHT (USA)
Sci-fi/Action. After the disappearance of Optimus Prime, it’s up to the unlikely alliance of the Cade Yeager, Bumblebee, an English lord and an Oxford professor to save the world.
American pop-rock band One Republic is coming to Thailand this Sep 21 to perform at Impact Arena Muang Thong Thani. Tickets go on sale on Thaiticketmajor this Jun 24, starting at B2,000. Led by vocalist Ryan Tedder, One Republic first made their name by posting videos onto MySpace. In 2007, they released their first album Dreaming Out Loud which led them to international success thanks to hits like "Apologize" and "Stop and Stare." Now, they're on a world tour to promote their fourth and latest album, Oh My My, which features songs like "Wherever I Go," "No Vacancy" and "Kids", which has been received with mixed reviews due to a huge change in their sound. This will be their first ever appearance in Bangkok. Local music lovers have had a lot of concerts to save up for lately, with this news adding to the massive list of upcoming international concerts, including Harry Styles, Ed Sheeran, Ariana Grande, Foo Fighters and Phoenix, to name a few.
TUBELIGHT (INDIA)
Drama. During the Indo-China war of 1962, an Indian man falls in love with a Chinese woman despite the conflict between their countries.
A YELLOW BIRD (SINGAPORE)
APPRENTICE (SINGAPORE)
Drama. An ex-prisoner goes on a journey to discover his wife and son, but ends up bonding with a prostitute who hires him as her bodyguard.
Drama. A young prison officer forms an unlikely friendship with the senior executioner who took the life of his criminal father.
Upcoming (June 29)
ART
DREAMY LAND
STITCH UP
Supasit Thrammaprasert explores the past, present and future using oil on nylon nets, oil on canvas and drawing on giclee print. Jul 1-30. S.A.C. Subhashok The Art Centre, Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-662-0299.
Artist Patipat Chaiwitesh introduces Paul, a robotic sketcher, and his creator Patrick Tresset, in addition to a soundtrack of Thai dub and new-age music, and visual arts from Naan T. The opening party starts at 6:30pm. You can also catch Paul at the Hotel Art Fair (see page 18). Jun 28, YenakArt Villa Gallery, 69 Soi Prasat Suk, Yen Akat Rd., 081-902-9196.
SALES & FAIRS THE GREAT OUTDOOR MINI MARKET X THE COMMONS
The popular outdoor m a rket ret u rns fo r one more takeover of the community mall, bringing with it booths selling clothes, l i f e s t y l e p ro d u c t s , crafted goods and DIY items. Jul 1-2, 11am. The Commons, 335 Thonglor Soi 17, 089152-2677. Free.
DRIVER (THAI)
2:22 (USA)
Drama/Romance/Thriller. After a man goes missing on a trip back from Korea, his wife and her driver attempt to track him down but discover a dark secret instead.
Thriller. After being suspended from his job, a New York air traffic controller notices a series of strange events recurring at the same time every day.
HONG-HAM-TAO (LAOS)
KIDNAP (USA)
Comedy/Romance. A documentary-maker falls in love with a subject he’s filming, and needs to find a way to win her heart.
Thriller. Halle Berry stars as a mother willing to risk her life in order to track down a kidnapper who’s taken her son.
Visit bkmagazine.com/jobs
BK Magazine Friday, June 23, 2017
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