BK Magazine 699 21 July, 2017

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BK MAGAZINE NO. 699 FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017. www.bkmagazine.com

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BK MAGAZINE NO. 699 FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017. www.bkmagazine.com

Travel smart with Thailand’s best low-season deals

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page 3 4 cover story

Travel Smart

What We’ve Learned

3 upfront

8 avenue

Rolling with the Punches

Ari Rising

12 avenue

15 bites

In Print

Straight off the Boat

16 bites

26 BK Now

High Times

Weekend Agenda

Who's in charge?

Managing Director Andrew Hiransomboon Managing Editor Oliver Irvine Deputy Editor Carl Dixon Features Associate Monruedee Jansuttipan Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Staff Writer Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj, Theerada Moonsiri Junior Writers Kankanok Wichiantanon, Kasidit Srivilai, Rujiyatorn Choksiriwan Art Director Vatanya Bongkotkarn Production Supervisor Komkrit Klinkaeo Senior Graphic Designers Peeraya Sirathanisa Graphic Designer Anunya Chobnitas, Wirankan Saiyasombut Video Content Manager Chanon Wongsatayanont Photographer Chissanupong Narmmoolnark Video Editor Tanaporn Choopanya Media Designer Saranya Laowtrakul Advertising Director Wanida Akeapichai

Where to find us!

The Asia City Media Group

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

Contributors Kathy MacLeod, Lily Kittisrikangwan

Product Director Gregoire Glachant Senior Project Manager Chayanap Tongdadas Branded Content Associate Sureepak Janyapat Project Coordinator Nutnicha Nuttanakorn, Peerada Chotiya Senior Developer Jinin Jaengkitsopon

Cover by Wirankan Saiyasombut, Yanika Piyatassee

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

Interns Chitsanupong Suphattanawat, Nathanan Charoenkitchaikarn, Phone Myat Khine, Punsita Ritthikarn, Sirawit Paopattana, Siriya Suriyanon, Thanakorn Kongram, Wipawee Chaweepat, Yanika Piyatassee

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

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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That Bangkokians are queueing up for “Japan’s no. 1 ramen” Tokyo’s Menya Itto has arrived at Erawan with the lofty claim of being the top-ranked ramen shop on tabelog.com, which is Japan’s most used restaurant review site. That’s resulted in hourlong lines ahead of the opening times of 10am and 6pm daily.

Its ramen and tsukemen (dipping ramen) spotlight noodles made in-house daily, tender sous-vide meat toppings, and shio and seafood broths.

That COS is finally opening a store in Thailand No more flying to Singapore or Hong Kong to visit the minimalist, slightly higher-brow arm of Sweden’s H&M fashion retailer. Some snooping around on JobsDB reveals the brand is searching for a brand manager and store manager here in Bangkok. When and where exactly the store will open we’re not sure yet, but unsurprisingly the job location is being advertised as Pathumwan.

That a Thai startup just won a global social enterprise competition Siam Organic emerged victorious at last week’s Chivas Venture, beating out 29 finalists from 29 countries to claim a US$400,000 slice of a US$1 million fund. The annual competition aims to support the next generation of startups creating a better future for society. The social enterprise founded by Peetachai Dejkraisak and Pornthida Wongphatharakul is working to improve the lives of small-scale farmers through the cultivation of jasberry rice, an antioxidant-rich, non-genetically modified wholegrain rice.

That Charoenkrung’s new art-and-design warehouse complex is finally opening Move over Chang Chui; it’s Warehouse 30’s time to shine. Duangrit Bunnag’s transformation of World War 2-era warehouses into a complex of stores, galleries and other creative endeavours throws open its doors to the public this Sat, Jul 22, with a mini-market, workshops and documentary screenings from 10am.

That there’s a serious new jazz bar worth getting excited about Bronx Liquid Parlour is no more, but the cocktail bar’s sultry Thonglor Soi 25 space is about to turn into Black, a live bar promising an uncompromising alternative to staid hotel jazz lounges. The guy behind it is Idris Dawud, a trumpet player of fine stock: his dad played with Art Blakey and Thelonious Monk in the legendary Jazz Messengers, while his step-mom is jazz singer Dakota Staton, best known for her 1957 hit, “The Late, Late Show.” Stay tuned for a soft launch opening before the end of the month.

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BK Magazine July 21, 2017

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upfront HOT OR NOT Jakub Hałun

Korea Aerospace Industries

Hot: Training jets

Not: Black Hawks

Too bad Dear Leader never got to have that chat with His Trumpness this month, but at least the Black Hawks deal is still a goer. Now we can all move on and think about our next essential military procurement: training jets. Until now, our air force has been making do with the Czech-made L-39. Everyone knows they stink, and that all the coolest air forces have T50s instead. That’s why we need eight of them, on the double, before this whole military rule thing runs its course. www.tandemarchitects.com

Hot: Business Ari

Not: Hipster Ari

Here’s a list of stuff which Ari is good at: pocket-sized bakeries specializing in carrot cake; vintage boutiques selling unwearable clothes brought back from Japan; latte art. As business ideas, all of these are terrible, but they give the area a charm which you just can’t find elsewhere in this city. Now though, big development threatens to burst Ari’s twee bubble, with the giant, penis-shaped form of Pearl Bangkok already casting its real-estate office shadow over Soi 2. With the announcement of Ari Hills (see page 8), it could be goodbye cute sun-dappled side streets; hello Chong Nonsi 2.

Hot: Rain

Not: Sun

It’s already the end of July, and the rain has hit with a vengeance. If you haven’t yet had to a) take your shoes and socks off and wade through a flooded soi, or b) stand under a 7-Eleven awning for a half-hour trying to make it to the BTS, then we hate you. But what better excuses to get the hell out of this city and take a break. Thanks to the amazing hotel deals on page 4, you can hole up in five-star luxury on a shoestring budget.

INTERVIEW One year after Sopon Najnugul, 28, filmed himself duking it out with another friend in a back alley, Fight Club Thailand is now a 30-man team, organizing large-scale tournaments. The group celebrated its first anniversary on Jun 24 with a huge 20-match punch-out. Like Brad Pitt in the film Fight Club, Sopon organizes the gatherings to help hot-blooded youths release their aggression through fair one-on-one fights. Unlike the film, he promotes safety, as well as a sense of brotherhood and friendship among the fighters. Last year, Fight Club Thailand met huge media attention after the police declared their meet-ups illegal. Here, we talk to Fight Club Thailand’s founder, fighter and cameraman about his experiences with the club.

What draws you to this style of fighting? Why not Thai boxing?

I can’t be a professional boxer because I have a day job. I’m just like everyone else. We all have jobs. We even had a doctor who wanted to fight—he has a side of his character that loves fighting, but his duty is to be a doctor. We had two doctors actually, a dentist and a cosmetic surgeon. One has fought with us three times already.

We also have lots of soldiers and police officers.

What is your day job?

I’m a freelance photographer.

Hot: Smokehouses

Not: Dry meat

“Dry,” “tough,” “kinda not as tasty as Tony Roma’s” are all things you’re absolutely not supposed to say about the new breed of barbecue spaces taking over Bangkok’s shop-houses. Here, the meat gets left in flavor- imparting smoke machines to make sure it’s as on-trend as a kimchi-and-uni gua bao with a side of purple sweet potato. Find out where on page 15.

THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

Why did you start Fight Club?

I want everyone to stop using weapons. If there’s a dispute then you should talk to find a solution.

But if it’s beyond talking, then you have this place to vent your frustration. If you want to stop a dispute, you’ll have to stop yourself, not stop the other person. But we don’t allow for disputing parties

to clear their problems inside this ring. All our matches are organized by a raffle. It’s for the communal benefit, not only for people arguing with each other.

Describe your first fight in Fight Club.

I didn’t know how to fight. I just wanted to exercise but I didn’t want to play football or something boring. Only professional boxers are allowed to fight. Ordinary people can’t fight.

How did you feel?

I just wanted to get in a scrap. If I didn’t try it then I’d have no idea how much I can take. It’s a good feeling though, like I’m crossing some kind of line in myself. I don’t have to be afraid anymore; I can just put myself into the fight.

Tell us about your problems with the police last year.

The police visited us because they didn’t know whether we were illegal under the Boxing Act. Now, I still don’t know what will happen because our country has Article 44. If the government wants us to stop, we’ll have to stop.

What would you like to say to your critics and the authorities?

I don’t want to explain anything to the authorities, or anyone who doesn’t understand us for that matter. But if you’re interested in us, we definitely care about you.

The world isn’t a nice place anymore. There’s enough killing all around. Isn’t it time for all that to stop? Interview by Chanon Wongsatayanont

Describe your toughest fight.

It was my latest one. I got knocked out. But it’s OK. I like it. I’m here because I want to get beaten up. I don’t have a quarrel with anyone.

by Kathy MacLeod (IG: @kathy_macleod)

BK Magazine Friday, July 21, 2017

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RAINY DAY ESCAPES The low season offers massive discounts on rooms and flights. Here are the best reasons to start packing.

By Lily Kittisrikangwan

10 INCREDIBLE LOW SEASON HOTEL DEALS ACCOR HOTELS For bookings through Aug 31, you can get discounts of up to 40 percent on swish hotels like So Sofitel Hua Hin, Veranda Resort Pattaya, Manathai Koh Samui, Sofitel Krabi Phokeetra, Mera Mare Hotel and Little Nyonya Phuket.

Applicable for stays until Sep 3. See the full list at bit.ly/2sTnmK6.

CONRAD KOH SAMUI Through Dec 20, this luxury pool villa resort on the southwestern coast of Koh Samui is offering discounted weekend stays for Thai residents, starting at B16,500/night (from the usual B18,500) in the 130-sq-meter Waterfront pool villa, inclusive of breakfast for two and your own 10-meter pool. Groups should check out the 297-sq-meter Oceanview two-bedroom pool villa, inclusive of breakfast for four guests, at B29,000/ night (from the usual B33,500). Reservations at conradkohsamui.reservations@conradhotels.com.

ESCAPE KHAO YAI Sansiri’s ever-reliable Escape hotels in Khao Yai and Hua Hin are offering discounted stays through Sep 30. Kick back amid Khao Yai’s verdant hills starting at B3,200/night (down from B3,575) for a deluxe room, inclusive of breakfast and an afternoon tea set for two. For a beach stay in Hua Hin, you’re looking at B3,050/night (down from B3,250), inclusive of breakfast and a poolside snack. Book directly at 063-187-0777.

KEEMALA Kamala’s rainforest resort has an enticing two-night deal for Thai residents that includes breakfast, daily refill of homemade chocolates, teas and coffees, and your choice of two of the following: roundtrip airport transfers, 90-minute aroma massage, afternoon tea set or set dinner at Mala Restaurant.

All of this will cost you B31,600, available until Nov 15. Otherwise, a stay in the Clay Pool Cottage with breakfast is B15,000/night (down from B19,000), available through Oct 31. Reservations at stay@ keemala.com or 076-358-777.

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MARRIOTT Through Oct 31, the “Summer Getaway” package at Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Krabi gets you the third night free along with daily breakfast, boat trip to Hong Island and other perks. At B34,400 all up, that’s a saving of B17,200. A similar deal at Renaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa is B13,800, also with daily breakfast, 60-minute spa treatment and late checkout—all for a saving of B6,900.

Sri Panwa

SIX SENSES The stunning Six Senses resort on the northern tip of Koh Samui is offering 20-percent off all villas, inclusive of breakfast. That means a stay in the Hideaway Villa will cost you B13,480/ night, available from now through Aug 31.

There’s no minimum number of nights required, either. Closer to home, a two-night stay in one of Evason Hua Hin’s pool villas is B19,499, covering daily breakfast, three-course dinner and bottle of house wine, 60-minute massage, round-trip shuttle to Hua Hin town, free use of bicycles and late check-out. Available on stays through Oct 31 at www.sixsenses.com.

Keemala

Conrad Koh Samui

SOCIALGIVER By utilizing rooms that would otherwise go unbooked, this social enterprise offers awesome deals of up to 50-percent off through Oct 31.

Some of the top bargains we spotted: pool suite at The Slate Phuket at B9,500/night (down from B16,000), Seascape room at Veranda Resort and Spa, Pattaya at B4,500/night (down from B10,000) and a floating villa at Floathouse River Kwai at B3,950/night (down from B7,950).

Your money goes towards various charities and foundations around the country. Double win! For the complete list, see www.socialgiver.com.

SRI PANWA The luxe resort on Phuket's Cape Panwa is slashing up to 30-percent off rooms till Aug 31.

As a result, a night’s stay in the new onebedroom Habita Pool Suite West Ocean View costs you B9,975/night, down from B14,820, inclusive of breakfast and minibar. Stays of two nights or more get you a special gift set, too.

Book at www.sripanwa.com.

Six Senses Samui

U HOTELS

X2 RESORTS

From Aug 1-Oct 31, get 40-percent off twonight stays at U Pattaya, U Zenmaya Phuket, U Inchantree Kanchanaburi, U Chiang Mai, and recent openings U Nimman Chiang Mai and U Khao Yai. Traveling in a group? Hit up the twobedroom suite at U Nimman at B9,734/two nights—averaging out to around B1,600/person for six people. You’ll have to book before Sep 30 at www.uhotelsresorts.com.

The boutique design resort chain is offering 63-percent off a variety of rooms for weekday travels, and 61-percent off snappy weekend bookings (three days in advance). That means your stay at X2 River Kwai’s Luxe Cabin could be as cheap as B3,420/night for weekdays and B3,632 for weekends. For X2 Koh Samui, a stay in the pool villa could set you back B8,135 on weekdays or B8,836 with Champagne breakfast.

Don’t forget, this includes free unlimited spa treatments throughout your visit. Check out all the offers at www.x2resorts.com.

BK Magazine Friday, July 21 2017

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cover story RAINY SEASON CHECK-LIST

Catch the sunset from Doi Thong and Doi Miang in Pai, Mae Hong Son.

Villa Mahabhirom

Watch the sea of mist rise over the iconic green field of cabbages on Khao Kho and Pu Tub Berg, Petchabun.

The Explorer Lodge

THE BEST NEW HOTELS WORTH TRAVELING FOR CHIANG MAI VILLA MAHABHIROM Sitting in the shadows of Doi Suthep, this hotel is made up of beautiful 100-year-old teakwood houses. Two to three villas can even be reserved together to form a "terrace villa" or "private pool villa" that each come with a saltwater plunge pool and garden courtyard. The signature restaurant serves up home-cooked Thai dishes using ingredients from the Royal Projects.

Low season rate: Through Oct 31, a two-night stay for two will cost Thai residents B18,000, inclusive of daily breakfast, 60-minute spa session for two, transport from the airport and a variety of F&B discounts.

62 Moo 10, Suthep, 053-271-200. www.villamahabhirom.com

CHIANG RAI THE EXPLORER LODGE AT FOUR SEASONS TENTED CAMP GOLDEN TRIANGLE

Designed by the Bangkok-based master of exotic luxury resorts, Bill Bensley, the two-bedroom Explorers' Lodge measures a very spacious 232 sq meters, complete with long outdoor table and private pool looking out over verdant forest. Inside is replete with safari touches like a bronze bathtub and Northern-style homespun cushions, though the ivory headboards are a controversial touch.

Low season rate: From B172,000/night for up to six people.

8 Chiang Saen, 053-910-200. www.fourseasons.com/GoldenTriangle

HUA HIN HOTEL BOCAGE Located on the third floor of the Seenspace Hua Hin beachfront mall, this hotel from starchitect Duangrit Bunnag blends with the rest of the pro ject through simple yet brutal concrete lines. Inside is a vision of elegance, with minimal furniture, gray-scale colors and abundant natural stone. The tech-savvy property also offers mobile app check-in that lets you access your room without even having to stop at the lobby.

Low season rate: Starting at B5,300/night, inclusive of breakfast for two through Nov 30.

4/F Seenspace Hua Hin, Hua Hin Soi 35, 091-7128822. www.hotelbocage.com

The very green, very luxurious resort recently lifted the lid on its exciting new room type.

AWESOME FLIGHT DEALS

airport tax to be tacked on, but these prices do get you full service and luggage allowance. Oh, and 100 percent of what you pay goes towards the Love Wildlife charity.

SPECIAL JOURNEY WITH BANGKOK AIRWAYS

BANGKOK AIRWAYS WOMEN’S JOURNEY

Socialgiver (see page 4) has teamed up with Bangkok Airways to offer some cut-price deals.

Log onto socialgiver.com to claim vouchers that get you round-trip deals like Bangkok to Samui for B4,500 (as opposed to the usual B10,000).

Better yet, Bangkok to Chiang Rai goes down to B1,000, Lampang B1,050 and Sukhothai B900.

Be quick, some destinations have already sold out. Of course, these deals won't be valid for travel over long weekends, and you can expect

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Kwai Tara Riverside Villas

Hotel Bocage

Women can score some amazing flight deals thanks to Bangkok Airways’ latest collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand. That translates to single-leg flights from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang, Sukhothai, Trat, Krabi or Phuket going for as little as B1,290. Return flights are the same, with the exception of Sukhothai (B1,390) and Trat (B1,390). Book through Aug 31 at bit.ly/2tHpN3r for flights till the end of that month.

KANCHANABURI KWAI TARA RIVERSIDE VILLAS This resort comprises 20 loft-style villas along the River Kwai, located only a short distance from Erawan Waterfall. While the Canal Access Villas give you beautiful views of the mountains, we love the spacious 80-sq-meter Floating Villas, which bob over the water complete with their own stylish hammocks, river terraces and upper decks.

Low season rate: Thanks to a B1,000 discount during soft opening, a stay in the Canal Access Room costs B4,000/night and the Floating Villa B4,500/night, inclusive of breakfast.

Walk through the fields of dok kra jiew (Siamese Tulips) in Sai Thong National Park, Chaiyaphum.

Swim in front of the 300 -meter waterfall at Ti Lor Su, Tak.

214 Moo 6 Sai Yok, 093-925-8883. www.kwaitara.com

PAI PURIPAI VILLAS Sitting on a small hill on the outskirts of Pai town center, this luxurious resort boasts excellent views of the early morning mist. They just unveiled three new standard villas, one three-bedroom villa and two three-bedroom pool villas, each furnished with Northern teakwood furniture.

Take part in organic farming and listen to the rain at Ban Rai I Arun, a design homestay in Ranong. www.fb.com/ baanraiiarun

Low season rate: From B9,257-B14,242 for the villas or B2,604 for a deluxe room.

130 Moo 1, Mea Na Theung, 086-339-4048 www.puripaivilla.com

Go water-rafting in Saiyok River, Kanchanaburi.

AIR ASIA Thai Air Asia is always offering super-cheap flights every other week (if you spend enough time looking). Most recently, they've launched flights to the Maldives that start from as low as B3,790, begining this August. More details on www.airasia.com.

Breathe in the freshest air in the country at Kiriwong, Nakhon Sri Thammarat.

THAISMILE In addition to the newly added flights from Bangkok to Phuket and Chiang Mai, Thai Smile will also be running special promos to support ladies' domestic travels this August, in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Check out the latest updates at www.thaismile.com.

Wake up on 500rai's floating raft on R atc h a p ra p a D a m , S u rat T h a n i . www.500rai.com

BK Magazine Friday, July 21 2017

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cover story PHANG NGA THE CAPE KUDU Sitting on the secluded east coast of Koh Yao Noi, the charming and little-developed island between Krabi and Phuket, these 55 clean-lined rooms evoke a colonial style through wooden construction, high ceilings and rattan furniture.

Low season rate: Until Oct 31, they’re halving the cost of all room categories, with prices starting at B4,300. Book the Robinson Crusoe Suite overlooking Phang Nga Bay for B8,600 (normally B13,600) or a Pool Villa for B7,500 (down from B10,800).

25/55 Moo 5 Koh Yao, Phang Nga, 076-592-600. www.capekuduhotel.com

LA VELA KHAOLAK The first beach club hotel on the serene stretch of Bang Niang Beach is named after the Vela constellation (Latin for the sails of a ship). The 181-room resort features a heavily geometric design courtesy of TROP: Terrains + Open Space, whose credits include Casa de la Flora, Botanica Khao Yai and Veranda Pattaya. Most rooms come with a bath or outdoor Jacuzzi, as well as a grand seven-foot bed.

The Cape Kudu

Low season rate: Thai residents can snag deals starting at B2,650/night for a stay of two consecutive nights through Oct 31. Book by the end of July for a bunch of bonus goodies, like free dinner set or massage, depending on room type.

98/9 Moo 5, Khao Lak, Phang Nga, 076-428-555. www.lavelakhaolak.com

PHUKET AVISTA HIDEAWAY Located on the hillside at the southern end of Patong Beach, this new opening by Sofitel boasts clean lines with a luxurious tropical edge. The 150 guestrooms come decked out with rich local woods and natural stones, while three saltwater pools are split over different levels.

Low season rate: From now through Dec 31, every direct booking (from B3,754) gets you complimentary breakfast, two beers and two soft drinks served in-room daily, and one 30-minute Thai massage. Book any suite for three consecutive nights and receive a set dinner for two at Sizzle Restaurant.

Sriwilai Sukhothai Hotel

39/9 Muen Ngern Rd., Patong, 076-681-681. www.avista-hideawayphuket-patong.com

RANONG

SUKHOTHAI

BAAN NAI MONG

SRIWILAI SUKHOTHAI HOTEL

The new homestay offers six types of compact-sized, eco-friendly accommodation. Each room is designed to reflect the owner’s love for a simple, natural way of life. The highlights are a treehouse for relaxing and an outdoor hot spring onsen by the lake that uses pure water from the mountains (B500/family between 5-9pm). You can grab the homestay’s bike and cycle to Ranong town center or take an excursion to Koh Phayam, the Andaman’s up-and-coming island.

Sukhothai-Lanna architecture sees 54 rooms garnished with old-fashioned lanterns, colorful cushions contrasted with white-washed walls and four-poster beds. Touting eco-credentials, the resort uses solar panels to heat its water and a zero-chlorine system for the infinity pool. Their location is golden, too, right opposite the UNESCO-protected Sukhothai Historical Park.

Low season rate: B1,900 for the mountain-view Smallville Room or B1,950 for the Eco Cabin.

Low season rate: Book directly and save up to 35 percent.

The superior room starts from B2,790/night, including breakfast and bike usage, available through Oct 31.

88/22 Moo. 4, Muang, Ranong. www.fb.com/bannaimong

214/4 Moo 2, Sukhothai, 055-697-445. www.sriwilaisukhothai.com Baan Nai Mong

BEACH DESTINATIONS THAT WILL SURVIVE THE STORMS

KOH SAMAE SAN, CHONBURI

KOH MUNNORK, RAYONG

Good for: Snorkeling near Bangkok

Good for: A private, no-frill island Good for: Kayaking in the most getaway alternative to Koh Samet tranquil sea

KOH KOOD, TRAT

KOH SAMUI Good for: A luxury hideaway with amazing sunsets

ANG THONG NATIONAL PARK, SURAT THANI Good for: Spectacular views of the Gulf of Thailand BK Magazine Friday July 21, 2017

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avenue FASHION

Weekend Wishlist The beautiful Ari boutique of Bangkok-based casualwear brand Vick’s Weekend sits in the shade of Soi 2’s greenery. New in store, you’ll find the brand’s fall-winter collection, Weekend Agenda, a minimal, down-to-earth series of jumpsuits, dresses, loose tops and pants that plays with Thai textile tradition. Pick up a jumpsuit (B4,150) or checked midi dress (B5,350) in pha khao mah (Thai sarong) checks for a look that’s as at home in the Khon Kaen countryside as it is in a branch of Kuppadeli. Or go with the collection’s more feminine side, as seen in the senorita-like ruffles of the floor-grazing Blossom skirt (B4,750). 1/5 Ari Soi 2. www.vicksweekend.com

PROPERTY

Ari Means Business Tokyo has Roppongi Hills; now our decidedly flat city is getting Ari Hills, a complex of shops, offices and hotel space. When complete (estimates say within this year), it will offer 12,000 sq meters of office space accessed via a white marble-clad reception that looks more like something from Chong Nonsi.

This will sit alongside a semi-outdoor retail strip and 180-room hotel run by the Taiwanese chain Evergreen. If you bought one of Ari’s many new pocket-sized condos as an investment, this probably sounds like amazing news. For the residents who like to talk about their sun-dappled streets, indie boutiques and craft coffee joints… not so much. 428 Phahon Yothin Rd., 02-219-1111. www.arihills.com

FLORIST

Green Thumbs Given a green lick of paint, an old shop-house on Nang Linchee Road now looks like something torn from the pages of Kinfolk. Garden Atlas sells mainly small plants and the pottery to store them in (from B120 for a tiny cactus and B100 for a pastel-color pot)—perfect for when you finally get around to doing up your apartment. Make the most of your tiny space with one of the eye-catching rattan plant stands for your ferns and succulents (B1,150) or a metal wire plant supporter for your climbers (starting at B1,680). Nang Linchee Rd., 097-246-7547. Open Tue-Sat 11am-4pm www.fb.com/gardenatlas

SHOP

Office Mode When Camp arrived in Siam Square last year, it saved us all the fear of ordering from untested Instagram fashion shops by rounding up the best of them and showing their looks in an industrial-chic boutique worthy of your own photo feed. Now it’s branched out to its third location, Camp Weekdays, which sits on the ground floor of Sathorn’s Empire Tower, right next to Tops Supermarket, and offers semi-formal and professional looks. You’ll find tons of clothing and accessories split into two sides—one for working women, the other for those who play safe in fashion.

As always, everything’s still super-affordable—think prices from B600-2,000. LG/F, Empire Tower, South Sathorn Rd., 065-6102516. Open Mon-Fri 10am-10pm. www.fb.com/camp.bkk

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avenue FASHION

Print on Print

Enough with the minimalism. Prints are still making their mark on every season’s runway, but the hard part is matching them. By Kasidit Srivilai

Handbag, Gucci, B92,900

Tank top, Vick's Weekend, B3,150

Trousers, Zara, B2,290 Scarf, Emilio Pucci, B15,700 Sneakers, Mango, B1,490

Dries Van Noten

Sandals, Chanel, B32,000

Essentials Chanel. G/F, Central Embassy, Phloen Chit Rd. Emillio Pucci. M/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd. Loewe. M/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd. Mango. G/F, Silom Complex, Silom Rd. or shop online at www.shop.mango.com

Pouch bag, Loewe, B25,900

Sretsis. 1/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd. Skirt, Sretsis, B15,000

Vick's Weekend. 1/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd. Zara. 1/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd.

SPAS Check out these new pamper spots in three corners of Bangkok

IMPERIAL SPA

CALM SPA

NO.38 INFINITE NATURAL SPA

The Imperial Spa only employs therapists who cut their teeth at the Phothalai spa school, which OLD derived all its methods from Wat Pho. The signature TOWN Touch of Raweekalaya Massage takes you through either a 60- or 120-minute (B1,200-1,800) journey of bliss using Donna Chang oil. Or go for a simple foot massage at B550, or Thai massage at B600—shop-house prices in a colonial-luxe, boutique setting.

This new spa comes decked out in a clean and minimal style. Calm Spa takes a chic mid-cenARI tury route through pastel colors, Danish furnishings and contrasting concrete and greenery. They use their own organic spa products and you can expect most treatments to run well into four figures. Try a 90-minute Thai massage with salt clay pot for B2,500 or an upper body office syndrome massage at B1,100.

This rustic and homey spa sits in a two-story house on Sukhumvit Soi 38. Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers the usual array of massage services: tradi- THONGLOR tional Thai (B600), warm aroma (B1,000), warm candle (B1,400) and foot reflexology (B650). Still, the spa does stand out for its head-and-face-focused massages (B250 for 15 mins) and Moroccan-style decor— stucco walls and little niches with candles.

The Raweekanlaya,164-172 Krung Kasem Soi 2, 02-628-5999

13 Ari Soi 4, 096-941-8645

Sukhumvit Soi 38, 02-002-9614

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Fair Game Sukhumvit Soi 31's wonderfully rustic restaurant Harvest is teaming up with craft beer purveyors Beervana for a dinner devoted to wild-caught European game meat. The fivecourse feast on Aug 5 showcases rare-inthese-parts meats like deer, hare and boar, each paired with a different imported craft beer. A dish like citrus-cured deer with beetroot, pistachio butter, pickles, apricot, horseradish, butter-roasted hazelnut and finger lime comes served alongside Deschutes' crisp Mirror Pale Ale, while the beer-braised hare with sourdough, celery crudites, lentils and soft-boiled egg is paired with the suitably piney Stone IPA. The meal comes in at B2,900 per person and, what's more, all the beers are free-pour. Email info.harvestbkk@gmail.com for reservations. Chapter 31, 24/1 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 02-262-0762, 097-235-8286

RESTAURANT

DELIVERY

DINNER

River Dreams

Tea Time

Turin Break

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, Supanniga x Roots, sits on the riverside deck of Tha Tien’s Riva Arun, where the scenery is paired with decor that's a cozy mix of earthy tones and vibrant yellow, and the food is complemented by coffee from Roots. As usual, you'll find nods to Trat and Khon Kaen cuisine in the nam prik khai pu (crab meat with chili paste, B240) and moo cha muang (pork with Guttiferae tree leaves, B240). They're joined here by a Thai-influenced range of cold brew coffees like Hanuman (dried jackfruit and topped banana B140). There's also a new selection of Thai sweets like the almost-too-gorgeous-to-eat kanom krok (coconut rice cake, B150). 392/25-26 Maha Rat Rd., 02-015-4224

Thailand’s first brewery for kombucha, a fermented tea drink beloved of health nuts, has returned after a year-long hiatus.

Pure Luck has moved production from its gorgeous old Chinatown brewery (now Oneday Wallflower) to an 80-rai farm near Hua Hin. They offer nine probiotics-rich flavors like Mr Oolong and Miss Darjeeling, through Instagram (@pureluckbangkok) in 12- or 30-packs (B1,320 or B3,150, plus delivery fee) or as individual bottles at OleafOrganic store (Sukhumvit and Silom), Bumrungrad and Grass Thonglor for around B120 a pop. Founders Tibb Phungtham and Brett Casper will also host a 2.5-hour kombucha-making workshop at The Commons (Thonglor Soi 17) on Jul 23. The cost of B3,600 includes your own glass kombucha kit. Register at www.fb.com/pureluckbangkok.

Turin’s Consorzio restaurant is all about pristine, Piedmontese produce gathered from the farms, vineyards and wild countryside that surround the city. That philosophy squares pretty strongly with the team at Appia, Paolo Vitaletti and Jarrett Wrisley, who’ve invited Consorzio’s owners, Pietro Vergano and Miro Mattalia, to come cook a tasting menu (B1,800) at their homey Sukhumvit Italian restaurant for two nights on Jul 26-27. Piedmont's robust flavors and red meats shine in dishes like roasted veal, sweet breads with smoked apricot, and shallots, and fassona beef cheek stew. Dinner kicks off with an aperitivo and Piedmontese snacks. Add B1,200 if you want the wine pairing. 20/4 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 02-261-2056. appia-bangkok.com

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BARBECUE

Pier Review

Smokehouses Are Taking Over Bangkok

Five things you need to eat straight off the boat at Wang Lang Market. By Punsita Ritthikarn

SPAREPARTS

Wanglang Bakery

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eyond the vintage shops and handbag vendors, the outdoor Wang Lang Market (Soi Wang Lang, Arun Amarin Rd.) on the Thonbuir side of the river is a street-food paradise offering culinary delights at prices easy on the wallet. Here are five great reasons to make the B3 crossing from Rattanakosin Island to Wang Lang Pier.

The top two stories (plus half a rooftop) of Charoenkrung hipster hangout, Foojohn building, is home to Spareparts, a new barbecue and bourbon house. Deli-Q food truck's Texas-born Caitlin Lee Chullasapya takes care of the rooftop smoke pit, where she flavors her ribs for 6-8 hours. She also smokes the delicious Sriracha-marinated chicken wings (B180) for a couple of hours before baking them inside a dry rub crust and serving them with addictive batter-coated crispy fries.

Sauces and sides rotate weekly, including Kansas barbecue sauce, curry ketchup, pork jus and Sriracha coleslaw. Ribs are served as a mixed platter (B420) with pulled pork, burnt ends, chicken wings and crispy onions. The bar offers bourbon-based cocktails to go with all the smoked goodies. Try the mojito made with Evan Williams bourbon and smoked pineapple (B200).

831 Charoenkrung Soi 31, 085-527-3511

Fried teriyaki pork at Moo Tod Chaowang (B40 for 100g/B390 for 1kg) 1

As recommended by radio station Chill 89 FM Chuan Chim, Moo Tod Chapwang’s original shop offers tender slices of pork marinated in an extra sweet and smooth teriyaki sauce. The result is deliciously tantalizing, while the meat is wonderfully succulent.

Get it with hot sticky black rice for an extra B10.

089-790-9695, 089-766-3066. Open daily 9am-6pm

Guay jub yuan at Kuon Dang Guan Jub Yuan (B50-B60) 2

Kuon Dang’s version of Isaan’s Vietnam-inspired noodle dish sticks to ingredients imported from Ubon Ratchatani. Most guay jub yuan feature sliced Vietnamese sausage and finely cut tapioca noodles in a salty, clear soup. However, Kuon Dang’s signature noodles also feature pork balls, braised pork, quail, slices of shiitake mushroom and onions. The resulting flavors and textures are eclectic and delicious. Add B10 for an extra egg.

085-246-0111, 089-056-5777. Open daily 10am-7:30pm

Braised chicken noodles at Kuy Teav Kai Tun Khun Uum (B50) 3

The braised chicken noodles at Khun Uum’s eating house are so good that they’ve had to open two branches just in the market.

The secret: a complimentary bowl of soup made using 19 traditional Chinese herbs. It all combines for a healthy taste and fragrant aroma, with each of the herbs providing essential flavor profiles from heat and spice to the bittersweet taste of ground ginger.

Stuffed bread at Wang Lang Bakery (B45-B55) 4

Standing strong for over 25 years, Wang Lang Bakery has made it famous thanks to many appearances on Thai TV programs like Hei Seng Ti Tay. The shop-house makes its own fresh-baked bread using Australian wheat flour for a soft and tender texture with a starchy feel. Inside each large loaf, the extra stuffing makes for a really fun snack. There are 27 homemade stuffings in total, with the best sellers being dried shredded pork, raisin, ham and buttercream. All are faintly sweet and gigantic in size.

02 866 1649. Open daily 8am-6pm

Eclairs at Wang Lang Eclair (B50/7 pieces or B60/21 pieces) 5

Wang Lang’s only eclair stall adds a Thai spin to the French classic, filling its light choux pastry with pandan custard as well as sweetened milk or chocolate (our favorite: the milk cream). Whichever you choose, the pastry is super-light and fresh.

091-052-6247. Open daily 9am-6pm

SMACK & SMOKE This cozy, rustic barbecue joint has landed not far from Khaosan Road, where the Old Town cool clique can enjoy over 100 types of craft beer and melt-in-your mouth American-style wood smoked ribs (B180/300g-B675/1.4kg). Using the dry rub method, the chefs here massage their racks of ribs with 15 different spices before giving them 12 hours to absorb the flavors. Then it’s time for 10 hours in the smoker to get even more taste from charcoal and genuine wood chips.

Sample the beef ribs, pork ribs, smoked sausage and hot wings with the B1,515 combo platter.

79 Democracy Rd., 090 562 9265

HICKORY After setting up shop in Nana two years ago, Hickory has now moved its smoking operation to Game Over Lounge on Thonglor. Using long-bone ribs instead of baby backs, NZ-born chef Seamus Jacobs smokes the meat for 5-6 hours, available as a one-fifth of a rack (450g, B430) up to a full rack of 2.4-3kg (B1,990). Everything comes glazed in a sweet bourbon sauce. Besides that, he also smokes chicken wings (from B165/6), deep-fried and tossed in the house buffalo sauce, then served with blue cheese sauce. Smoked pork knuckle, saba fish, pulled pork and chicken also feature on the menu.

Game Over Liberty Plaza, 1000/39 Sukhumvit Soi 55, (Thonglor), 02-170-7684

099-185-1135. Open daily 9am-6pm

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OPEN DOOR

Penthouse Bar + Grill Three floors of food and drink at the top of a five-star hotel.

The buzz: Bangkok’s hottest new hotel opening plays host to three tiers of restaurants and bars perched high above the city. Chow down on premium beef at The Grill restaurant (34/F); sip on craft libations or brood over a single-malt at The Cocktail Bar (34-35/F); and knock back alfresco drinks overlooking Phloen Chit at the soon-to-open roof terrace.

The decor: All the walnut woods, marble, tufted leathers and cut mirrors paint a very masculine picture, an effect that’s rammed home with glass cabinets displaying vintage racing paraphernalia and light fixtures that repurpose motorcycle parts. Details abound in every darkened corner, whether it's the carved wooden ceilings sourced from Chiang Mai or a neon light-entangled naga. Though the different sections each boast their own character, it all feels of a piece thanks

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for the bar and restaurant, head bartender Simon Brandto a layout that flows seamlessly around a central staircase. menus

mayer foregoes Instagram frills for signature drinks (all B360) that The food: The marble-clad restaurant does a mean line in red meat, from US Prime grass-fed tenderloin (180g, B950) to Aus- are tart and full-flavored. From upstairs, we recommend the 250 tralian grain-fed ribeye steak (300g, B1,250) up to Japanese CC, a spirit-forward mix of Martin Miller’s gin, La Quintinye Rouge Matsunaga A3 wagyu striploin (180g, B2,650). Seafood, too, vermouth, La Fee Bohemian absinthe, Chartreuse Green, Giffard covers premium options like Hokkaido scallops (B1,150) and Lychee syrup and Aztec chocolate bitters. The wine list offers a Canadian lobster (B1,750). Heading down the price scale, the wealth of options at under B1,500/bottle, while a hidden speakperi-peri-style chicken at B550 is a tender and well-spiced ode easy boasts 120 whiskey labels from all the big regions. to Nando's. Have your protein with adept steakhouse sides like the hi-so mac and cheese of porcini and morel mushrooms (both B160).

The drinks: Prices are not as crazy as you might have imagined.

At B290 for a South Side (gin, lime, simple syrup and mint), you’re looking at sub-Thonglor cocktail lounge spending. In his separate

Why we'd come back: It's been a long time coming, but Penthouse doesn't disappoint on quality or price. This is one of those properly grown-up hotel bars Sukhumvit's been screaming out for. Carl Dixon 34-36/F, Park Hyatt Bangkok, 88 Wireless Rd., 02-012-1234. Open daily 4:30pm-midnight (food available 5:30-10pm). BTS Ploen Chit

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Eats Payao

Arno's

Dok Kaew House Bar

NEW AND NOTED

Home Sweet Home One of Sathorn’s best-kept secrets, Northern Thai street-food specialist Eats Payao (95/3 Nanglinchee Rd., 094-303-5833), has found a proper home by giving an old shop-house a vibrant pink makeover. Here, they serve up traditional recipes from Phayao province with the occasional premium ingredient or fusion flourish. Signage boldly proclaims this to be the home of "the best khaosoi in town" and the headliner of rich and flavorful Northern-style curry noodles (chicken or beef B80/B120) just about lives up to its billing. Other mainstays include nam prik noom (green young chili dip, B100), kanom jeen ngam ngiaw (a smoky, pungent noodle dish of Shan orgin, starting from B80) and the delicious gaeng hang lay (spicy pork belly curry, B120) to wash down with Mahanakorn beer.

Haunted Brews Taking over an 80-year-old, two-story house out the back of Phaya Thai, Dok Kaew House Bar (71 Rama 6 Soi 28, 096-886-

TABLE TALK 4101) not only boasts arguably the best selection of local craft brews this side of town, but also some excellent Thai food—to go with a few creepy claims that the house is haunted. Pick from an ever-rotating list of beers like Taopiphop Ale Project’s Hurtster Saison (B180), Yodbeer’s Bearnana Wit (B180) and Outlaw Brewing’s Outlaw Mosaic IPA (B180). Fiery food faves include leng (pork bone served with spicy soup, B130) and sai yaang (grilled pig’s intestines, B100) served with a tamarind-heavy jaew sauce.

Great Steaks Arno’s, the Naradthiwat butcher-slash-steakhouse known for its rock-bottom prices and boisterous crowds, has quietly opened not one, but two new branches. You can now get your 100-day-aged sirloin (B1,600), Boston lobster (B850) or beef burger (from B220) on Thonglor (Thonglor Soi 13, 02-0237130) or at EmQuartier (7/F, 02-003-6311). Unlike the original, these ones operate on a no-reservations basis. Stay tuned for another opening soon, too. Neon Boonyadhammakul and Carl Dixon

Fuzio Cafe 1/F, Chic Republic, 983 Bangna-Trad Rd, 098-283-6414.

Open daily 11am-10pm Behind the European facade of this Bangna bistro, with its classic, antique green wood panels and charming vintage bike parked out front, you’ll find hearty Italian dishes, Western comfort favorites like steaks and burgers as well as a few Asian specials. Sit under the light of a chandelier and enjoy fettuccinie in a shiitake mushroom cream sauce, or even Thai-inspired pastas like the angel hair A.O.P with Northern spicy sausage. Wash it down with a buy-one-getone free deal on some wines every Friday.

Exclusively for Citi credit card members.

Get 10% discount on food and non-alcoholic beverages Today – 30 Jun 18

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ADVERTORIAL

SERINA TEPPANYAKI JAPANESE DINING

FOOD REVIEWS

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Uma Uma HHHH

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Japanese. 39/1 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-6641130. Open daily 11:30am-midnight. BB-BBB

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Yaki soba. 450THB

Hiroshima Oyster fry 280THB

Chicken Steak. 380THB

This over-30-year-old Japanese restaurant is Silom’s best kept secret. Old Japanese recipes are alive here with beautiful local produce and imported meat, shining honestly on your plates. At B2,250 per set, you’ll get 150g of teppanyaki Kobe wagyu accompanied by fresh sashimi, salad, soup, grilled vegetable, garlic rice and a scoop of homemade fresh strawberry sorbet. Or get same set with 150g US Black Angus beef at B1,650.

SERINA, 9/26 Surawong Soi Jim Thompson, Bangkok, Thailand

Like many a good Japanese import, Uma Uma has its backstory straight. This ramen restaurant traces its roots back to 1953 Fukuoka and a ramen cart that was opened by the father of the guy who’s now company president. The intervening years are a little murky to follow, but what we know is it landed in Bangkok by way of Singapore in mid2015. Plopped among the girly bars and dodgy massage parlors of Sukhumvit Soi 23, Uma Uma has somehow flown under our radar until now. But the place clearly hasn’t escaped everyone’s attention—a mid-week visit finds the downstairs bar and upstairs dining room filled wall-to-wall with Japanese expats. Take that as a seal of approval.

The pride of the place is a bowl of Hakata-style tonkotsu ramen (B220) whose bouncy thin noodles come in a

Reservation: 02-235-8382

Now Hiring • SR. WRITER / ASST. EDITOR (THAI) • JR. BRANDED CONTENT WRITER (THAI/ENG) • SUB-EDITOR (ENG) • PHOTOGRAPHER • JR. IT SYSADMIN • EVENT SALES MANAGER • MARKETING DIRECTOR • MARKETING EXECUTIVE

Find out more at asiacity.com/careers 18

Phed Phed

HHHH

Thai. Phahon Yothin Soi 8, 097-918-1175.

Open Mon-Sat 11am-8pm. No corkage charge. BTS Ari. B. H

With its 24 seats booked out night after night, Phed Phed is the most buzzing Isaan restaurant in town. The well-priced, fiery and authentic food stands at odds with the chic decor of cool blue tones, marble tabletops and plantlife. The designer touches can be attributed to owners Nattaphong Saehu and Nuthakorn Jivarungsinee, who started the space as a showroom and repair shop for their minimalist bag brand, Mongrest. Drawing mostly on Nattaphong’s Nakhon Phanom roots, the home-style Isaan dishes feature made-from-scratch ingredients like curry pastes and fermented delights, whether crabs, fish, pork and Isaan sausages. On top of booking a table (lunch and dinner), you’ll also want to call ahead to reserve dishes like the ko moo yang (grilled pork neck, B90) and gaeng om (spicy vegetable soup with pork, B110). A menu packed with more than 20 varieties of somtam—all with

pork-bone broth that’s slightly sweet and viscous, joined by an expertly runny egg and chashu that’s the appealing type of fatty. You can have it in a spicy version (B150/220) that benefits from a liberal dose of chili oil or, better yet, try the mazesoba (B250), a form of dry ramen that actually originated in Uma Uma’s Singapore branch. Here, the chunkier soba noodles are topped with spring onions, bamboo shoots, chashu and onsen egg. All mixed together, it’s far creamier and more flavorful than we’d have picked. However, this is a ramen shop that’s as much an izakaya in both mood and menu. We’re actually more taken with their gyoza (B130/10 pieces), non-oily, bite-sized morsels bursting with pork and real ginger, and kushiyaki (grilled skewers). On the latter, we’d skip the assorted platter (B255/5 skewers) and plump straight for the torikawa (B55 each), sticks of wonderfully crisp grilled chicken skin that make the perfect drinking snack.

On that note, drop by and you’ll find most tables several rounds deep in Suntory whiskey highballs (B140), umeshu (from B150/glass) and draft Sapporo (B150/glass). With its paredback wood and concrete design, Uma Uma feels a bit too classy for its neighborhood. A shoe-in for NanaAsoke’s best ramen, this is also one of the city’s liveliest izakayas.

an eight-chili-pepper heat level as the baseline—means there are some tough choices to be made. The heady somtam pu plara (B60) may not be for the faint-hearted, but it comes topped with plentiful kratin beans for a burst of freshness to balance out the fermented fish. We’re also in love with their moo tok crok (grilled pork neck salad, B110), which gets the homey twist of crunchy peanuts and pork crackling on top. Their take on the Isaan staple of larb moo thod (herbal minced pork balls, B80) is a revelation. Rather than being crisp, the coating of roasted rice simply adds texture to meatballs that melt with juicy flavor. Other great examples of their attention to detail are the Isaan sausage (B50) that’s full of meaty-spicy goodness and not the fatty mess you get elsewhere, and the rich, aromatic tom saep moo (spicy clear soup with pork ribs, B95).

In contrast to all the tangy dishes, only the gaeng nor mai (fresh bamboo shoot soup, B95) remains stuck in neutral. While Bangkok’s Isaan bistro scene (Somtam Der, Lao Lao) has never been stronger, we’ve no bones in saying Phed Phed is the real deal: u n co m p ro m i s e d f l avo r s, s u p e rfriendly places, seasonal desserts (currently including a refreshing mang kut loy kaew [mangosteen in syrup], B65) and cool vibes. It’s just a shame there are no cocktails—you’ll have to settle for one of the rotating local craft beers.

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

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now SAT Heal World Pangina Heals is Bangkok’s best loved drag queen thanks to her weekly performances at Maggie Choo’s and on-stage banter. At her birthday this Jul 23, you get two hours’ free-flow booze (7-9pm) included in your ticket, and might even win B10,000 of aesthetic surgery if you’re costume’s good enough. See below.

FRI Subliminal Messages Ekkamai’s Toot Yung art center is gone, but its director, Myterille Tibayrenc, returns this weekend with a series of oil paintings at Serindia Gallery.

Sublimation opens Jul 21. See page 21.

SAT Twelve O'Clock Japanese dive bars don’t come any more dive-y or Japanese than Thonglor’s 12x12—a space which looks like it was custom built for the soundscape stylings of Stylish Nonsense. They’ll be joined by Korean electro duo Tengger and some other experimental acts for the 50ticket-only Carrier Wave gig this Jul 21.

See page 20.

SAT Make Some Noise Noise Market is the one handicraft market left which you can rely on. Panda Records is an awesome indie music label. And BACC is just about the best venue in town for anything. Three good reasons you should be at Merchandise Day Yeah Yeah this Jul 21-22, when the trio of hip businesses combine forces. See page 21.

NIGHTLIFE EXPERIMENTAL EDGE

ICE CHARITY BALL

An experimental music night featuring Tengger (Korea), Scalper (New Zealand), Kijjaz Music (Thailand) and Question.seQ a.k.a piz? (Japan), with visual arts by Sirasith Visual. Jul 21, 8pm. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 0835451-833. B300. BTS Surasak.

Ce La Vi throws a party with Freeland, an international organization working on environmental conservation and human rights, where all door proceeds go towards forest habitat protection projects near Khao Yai National Park.

Dress code is white. Jul 22, 9pm. Ce La Vi, 39/F, Sathorn Square Complex, 98 Sathorn Rd., 02-108-2000. B300 includes 1 drink. BTS Chong Nonsi.

BLAST POOL SERIES

This pool party promises techno-house music from Javi Kalero and Adiero + Nukier. Jul 22, 2pm. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Sukhumvit Bangkok, 18/1 Sukhumvit 26, 02-649-6666.

B400-700.

Gramaphone Children

STARGAZER MEETS GRAMAPHONE CHILDREN

A night of funk, disco and chillwave from DJs Stargazer and Gramaphone Children. Jul 22, 9pm. Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. Free.

BTS Thong Lo.

PANGINA HEALS' BIRTHDAY AT MAGGIE CHOO'S

Bangkok's much-loved drag queen celebrates a special birthday with her fans. Music by DJs Yui Truluv and Steve, along with performances by the queen herself and her crew throughout the night. Jul 23, 7:30pm. Maggie Choo's, underground/F, Hotel Novotel Bangkok Fenix Silom, 320 Silom Rd., 091-772-2144. B300 includes 1 drink. BTS Surasak.

SUPER HEROES THEME NIGHT

The fancy dress party at Spasso returns with a live "Super Heroes" show. Jul 28, 10pm. Grand Hyatt Erawan, 494 Phloen Chit Rd. BTS Chit Lom.

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NIGHTLIFE T.REX 1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Thonglor's popular dive bar celebrates its birthday with techno house music from Adiero + Nukier. Jul 21, 9pm.

T.Rex Retro Cafe, Thonglor Soi 14.

Free.

DARKSIDE THAILAND - HARDCORE TECHNO

DJ Ellie

Local and international DJs Weyheyhey, Sadistic, Maloonatic, Space360 and Live Visual play hardcore techno, gabber and breakcore. Free entry drink. Jul 22, 8pm. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833. B200. BTS Surasak.

Poetry Slam

WAKE UP & EAT ME

DJ Jirus

Antonio Pedrero Garcia

GLOW WITH ELLIE

FETE NATIONALE BELGE

Bangkok-based DJ Ellie and French DJ Roulio Aittouares spin deep and minimal techno. Jul 27, 9:30pm. Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 086-6143355. B250 includes 1 drink. MRT Sukhumvit.

This party to celebrate Belgian National Day promises everything Belgian, from the food to the DJs. Jul 21, 6pm. Le Cafe des Stagiaires, 142/21 Sathorn Soi 12, 081-207-3077. Free.

BTS Chong Nonsi.

The rooftop Altitude bar holds a day party with live music from DJs Coran, Jerome G and Yvan Polge, plus a saxophone performance by Antonio Pedrero Garcia. Jul 23, 12pm. The Westin Grande Sukhumvit Bangkok, 259 Sukhumvit Rd. Free.

GLOW SUNDAZE WITH STATUS DEEPER

Deep house music from the underground DJ crew. Jul 23, 9pm. Free (B250 after midnight).

POETRY SLAM SUNDAY FUNDAY

DJ Pump Globe-trotting Canadian turntablist Pump, who's supported the likes of De La Soul, Public Enemy and Snoop Dogg, is joined by Master D. and MC G-Sprak for a night that will blend genres. Jul 29, 10pm. Sugar Club, 37 Sukhumvit Soi 11, 082-308-3246. Free.

BTS Nana.

MELA

This multimedia event features music by underground house DJs Jirus, Munta Morton and Kova O'Sarin, along with art pieces by De Mac and Purich Srisuay. Jul 21, 9pm. Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. B150.

BTS Thong Lo.

The No Mic Open Mic Poetry

End the weekend with tunes by DJ Junesis, a cocktail happy hour, beer pong tournament (B600 per game) and shot contest (10 shots in 10 minutes, B1,000 per game) for a chance to win prizes.

Jul 23, 4pm. Le Cafe des Stagiaires, 142/21 Sathorn Soi 12, 081-207-3077.

Free. BTS Chong Nonsi.

Wordsmiths fight it out over 3 minutes at Live Lounge for a grand prize of B3,000 at this event hosted by Bangkok Lyrical Lunacy. Entry and spectating cost are the same. Jul 28, 7pm. Sportsman, Trendy Building, 10/22 Sukhumvit Soi 13, 02-168-7241. B300. BTS Phrom Phong.

THE NO MIC OPEN MIC POETRY

The bar invites poets and spoken word performers of all abilities to speak their piece. Registration available on the night. Jul 27, 8pm. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833. Free. BTS Surasak.

GIGS CARRIER WAVE

Experimental music with local indie veterans Stylish Nonsense joined by Korean electronic drone duo Tengger, Thai dub producer The Photo Sticker Machine and Japanese loop guitarist Amatuti Dub Drawing Space. Limited to only 50 tickets. Through Jul 21, 8pm.

12 x 12, 810/22 Thonglor Soi Thararom 2, 094-260-4713. B400.

SICK RAW FEST PARTY Grizzly

The Toys

SUNDAY SOUNDS

Other Road Records presents a live music session with synth-fusion act 4NTHRO (Vietnam), raw singer-songwriters Puzzle Muteson (UK), Gabriel Lynch (Australia) and folk-rocker John Will Sail (NZ). Jul 23, 5:30pm. T.Rex Retro Cafe, Thonglor Soi 14. Free.

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Folk9

SHOWCASE: FRESHLY SQUEEZED SOUNDS

The upstairs Live Lounge hosts performances from locally-based singers, DJs and musicians like Benjamin Steger, Thomas Murcutt, Jordan Bradley and Anton Aatamila, Claire Stanley and Valerie Bentson. Jul 21, 7:30pm.

Sportsman, Trendy Building, 10/22 Sukhumvit Soi 13, 02-168-7241. Free.

BTS Phrom Phong.

Promising a night of headbanging and mosh pits, this new heavymetal night welcomes international grind metal bands Grid (Sweden) and Compulsion to Kill (Malaysia) alongside local bands Smallpox Aroma, Cystgurgle, God Fester, Satyr, Ruled Out, Exclamation and BabylonBK is Dead. Jul 21, 6pm. Soy Sauce Factory, 11/1 Charoenkrung Soi 24, 061-835-6824. B350.

LIVE JAZZ BAND

A night of live Latin and Brazilian jazz by a local trio. Jul 22, 9pm. Le Cafe des Stagiaires, 142/21 Sathorn Soi 12, 081-207-3077. Free. BTS Chong Nonsi.

KICKS FEST 5

The rock event celebrates its oneyear anniversary with two stages of live music, food and Australian craft beers. Expect heavier sets from international and local acts like Sincerely, Grizzly, The Sangsom Massacre, Sinners

Turned Saints, Depressed and Higher Learning, plus more intimate acoustic sets in the beer garden from Gabriel Lynch, Krit Promyairux, Daniel Didyasarin and Valerie Joyce. Jul 22, 6pm.

Brownstone Studio, 1395 Sukhumvit Soi 77, 087-703-0448. B200.

LIPTA LIVE AT BEER BELLY

Thonglor's cavernous beer bar hosts live music from Thai pop duo Lipta along with games like ping pong, beer pong and Jenga. Jul 26, 9pm. Beer Belly, G/F, 72 Courtyard, 72 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 02-392-7770. B500 includes 1 drink.

THAILAND CROSSOVER #1

A meet-up of Thai instrumental musicans promising live performances by Midnight Children, The Backpackers Project, May Patcharapong, Funktion and Snapper Town. Jul 23, 6pm. Black Cabin Bar, Wild & Co., 33/1 Soi Farm Wattana, Rama 4 Rd., 061-515-6989.

Free.

TURNOVER

American indie-rock band Turnover stops by to play with Wave and So, Cloud Behind and FOLK9. Limited tickets on the door. Jul 23, 5pm. Brownstone Studio, 1395 Sukhumvit Soi 77, 087-703-0448. B600.

THE TOYS LIVE AT NINETEENS UP

Silom's game bar hosts a live performance from "vapor-wave" artist The Toys. Jul 26, 7pm. Nineteens Up, Silom Soi 19, 096-649-6919. B350 includes 1 drink. BTS Surasak.

UGOSLABIER

Post-rock metal band Ugoslabier launch their debut album, Brew Heart, with free entry for those who buy the CD on the night. Jul 30, 6pm. Play Yard by Studio Bar, Lad Phrao Soi 8, 081-1733616, 085-146-8017, 086-866-8869.

B100.

SWEET SUMMER SWEAT

Live grime, hip-hop and trap music from new Malaysian artists Alextbh, Airliftz and Zamaera, along with Singapore's REQ and local name UNDA. Jul 30, 8pm. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833. B300. BTS Surasak.

JAZZ NIGHT

French jazz and bossa vocalist Aude Lotelais performs live with all guests earning a chance to win a two-night stay at Dream Phuket Hotel & Spa. Jul 29-31, 7pm. Flava, 10 Sukhumvit Soi 15, 02-254-8500. Free.

BK Magazine Friday, July 21, 2017

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now CONCERT Musical Stories of Hope and Rebirth from Fukushima This Aug 17, the Fukushima Youth Sinfonietta, a charity orchestra founded by international concert pianist Panos Karan, performs in Bangkok in remembrance of HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej, and to raise funds for the Keys of Change organization. Karan founded the Fukushima Youth Sinfonietta out of musically talented youths affected by the 2011 earthquake, tsunami and nuclear meltdown in Fukushima city. Today, the group consist of nearly 150 musicians aged 13-16, 60 of whom will be performing in Bangkok. Organized by the Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra in collaboration with Wattana Wittaya Academy and Bangkok Christian College, the concert will feature pieces from Tchaikovsky and Beethoven, as well as a musical tribute to HM the late king. Tickets are B500 with proceeds going to the Keys of Change charity organization for disadvantaged children with musical talent.

Aug 17, 7pm. Thai National Theatre, Rachini Rd., 02-224-1342

FILM

Opening (Jul 20)

VALERIAN AND THE CITY OF A THOUSAND (USA)

KUROKO’S BASKETBALL LAST: GAME (JAPAN)

Action/Sci-fi. Special operatives Valerian (Dane DeHaan) and Laureline (Cara Delevigne) must fight a dark force in order to save the universe. Directed by Luc Besson.

Animation. In this continuation of the Kuroko’s Basketball anime series, Taiga Kagami and Tetsuya Kuroko join five members of the Generation of Miracles to defeat an obnoxious American street basketball team.

ART

BASIC DARKROOM WITH MOOROLL

CONTEMPORARY JEWELRY: WHAT IS IT?

Contemporary photographer Mooroll Thanarath Siripidej holds a black and white film photography workshop where you can learn the process of transferring images on film onto paper. Jul 22, 1pm. Hubba-to, 3/F, Habito, 45/19 Sukhumvit Soi 77, 02-118-0839. B2,990.

Designers based at the gallery lead a casual disscussion on what constitutes contemporary jewelry. Jul 22, 2pm.

ATTA Gallery, Room 1109, OP Garden, 36 Charoenkrung Rd., 02-238-6422. Free.

FRAGMENTS

SUBLIMATION

To launch his new collection of artworks inspired by Bangkok, Hong Kong-based figurative painter John McArthur gives a talk followed by a life drawing workshop, accompanied by a live performance from alto saxophonist Etienne Brunet. Jul 22, 6pm. Bridge, Charoenkrung Soi 51, 086-986-9421.

The director of Toot Yung art center and co-director of Bukruk Urban Arts Festival, Myterille Tibayrenc, presents an oil painting series based on images found online. Jul 21-Aug 20, Serindia Gallery, Room 3101, 3201, OP Garden, 4-6 Charoenkrung Soi 36, 02-238-6410. Free.

SALES & FAIRS

ALIVE AND KICKING (USA)

DUNKIRK (USA)

Documentary. An intimate look at the culture of swing dancing and its position in modern society.

Action/Drama. Christopher Nolan’s film follows the plight of allied soldiers from Belgium, the British Empire, Canada and France surrounded by the German army during WWII.

Upcoming (Jul 27)

ROUGH NIGHT (USA)

REVOLT (USA)

Comedy. A wild Miami bacholerette party goes horribly wrong when a male stripper unexpectedly dies. Stars Scarlett Johansson.

Sci-Fi. With humankind on the brink of extinction due to an alien invasion, a US soldier and a French foreign aid worker join together to search for the last remaining survivors.

THE LEGEND OF WUKONG (CHINA)

THE BEGUILED (USA)

Action. In this latest film about the mythological Monkey King, Sun Wukong and Erlang Shen travel to Immortal Mountain for skills training and in the process learn important life lessons.

Drama. Sofia Coppola's remake of the 1971 Southern gothic classic charts the sexual tensions and broken taboos that follow when the women of a girls’ school in Virginia take in a wounded Union soldier during the Civil War.

MERCHANDISE DAY YEAH YEAH

Noise Market and Panda Records present a pop-up market devoted to showcasing the wares of local craftsmen, artists and musicians. Jul 21-22, 10am. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-6630-8. Free.

BANGKOK FARMER'S MARKET

The market promises the usual eco-friendly and organic produce under shelter at the Ekkamai Mall. Jul 29-30, 11am.

Gateway Ekkamai, Sukhumit Rd. Free.

THE KNACK MARKET

Taking place every last weekend of the month, this riverside market is all about craft, vintage items, art and music, with lots of street food in collaboration with Bangkok Farmers' Market and Taste of Bangkok. Jul 29-30, 4pm. The Jam The Knack Market Factory, 41/1-41/2 Charoen Nakorn Rd., 02-861-0950. Free.

SPECIAL SCREENING Kang-Jor The faculty of Communication Arts of Chulalongkorn University hosts its 24th short films and still photography festival, Kang-Jor, this weekend (Jul 29-30).

Kicking off from 10am at BACC’s auditorium, the event showcases the works of fresh grads from the Motion Pictures Blue Hour and Still Photography department, followed by a post-screening discussion with film critic Prawit TaengAksorn, independent filmmaker Aditya Assarat, Blue Hour director Anucha Boonyawatana and co-founder of House Rama RCA Pongnarin Ulice. Admission is free.

Jul 29-30, 10am-9pm. 5/F, Auditorium Room, Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, 939 Rama 1 Rd., 086-387-3587

BK Magazine Friday, July 21, 2017

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