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Top Tables 2019 Find your free copy inside! It’s Natural Why funky wine is taking Bangkok by storm The Wagyu Sando Introducing Japan’s next-level beef sandwich Nanglinchee Calling Learn why the neighborhood’s heating up Brave new tk world NO. 759 MAR 29, 2019. www.bkmagazine.com

Can Anything Save Soi 11? THE PARTY STREET’S NOT DONE YET.

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Who's in charge? Managing Director & Publisher Andrew Hiransomboon

upfront

Managing Editor Oliver Irvine Digital Director / Deputy Editor Carl Dixon Sub-Editor Angela Symons Senior Digital Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Digital Content Coordinator Pakchira Bunphol Writers Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj, Dhipkawee Sriyananda Selley, Kankanok Wichiantanon

Asia’s “best female chef” on what it took to get there

Art Director Ratchprapha Sunthornprasat Production Supervisor Komkrit Klinkaeo Graphic Designers Anunya Chobnitas, Wirankan Saiyasombut Photographer Poonsawat Suttama Video Content Manager Wanlop Rungkumjad Video Designer Saranya Laowtrakul Videographer Nattapol Srisukh Junior Video Editor Tham Rodjananaudomvutigul Advertising Director Wanida Akeapichai Sales Managers Tipkritta Chiraporncharas, Orajira Sukkasem Senior Sales Associates Tassanee Mahamad, Nattaya Bovornsettanon, Orakarn Laohakanjanasiri ASIA CITY STUDIO Managing Editor Dietrich Neu Associate Editor Sureepak Janyapat Senior Project Manager Chayanap Tongdadas Project Coordinator Sirinart Panyasricharoen Senior Developer Wasan Wangrach Developer Nopanun Laochunanun Writer-Translator Tripop Leelasestaporn Branded Content Writer Chakariya Cheewatara

Election News Quiz Welcome back, pseudo-democracy! We’ve missed you. Thailand’s first general election in eight years is over. How much of it do you remember? 1. Which of these crimes was Thanathorn NOT accused of? a Falsifying his resume online. b Holding clandestine talks with Thaksin. c Asking for corkage on his B400 bottle of Mont Clair in Robuchon. d Claiming he was the first politician to put funds in a blind trust—a crime so outrageous it naturally holds a 20-year ban on politics.

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Here’s why Sukhumvit 11 is set for a comeback

SOIMILK Editor Nathapong Suppavatee Senior Writer Rujiyatorn Choksiriwan Writer Atiwat Uton Brand Manager Onwara Sittirug Sales Associates Prawpraew Pairohg, Kornkanok Sriwaranant Finance Manager Supaporn Bangmoung Assistant Finance Manager Anchalee Limkhamduang Senior Accountant Maneeya Kanthongdang Accountant Manita Bangmoung Admin Executive Yaovaluck Srisermsri

Contributors Kathy MacLeod, Megan Leon

travel

Interns Clara Howell, Jidapa Kanogsirima

Go for broke in Tokyo’s upper-crust enclave

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

Where to find us!

drink

The Asia City Media Group

Why natural wine is finally making a splash

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

BK “Asia City Living” Magazine is edited by Andrew Hiransomboon and published 24 times a year, twice a month by Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Copyright ©2019 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 (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 Media Group (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

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019

2. Roadside posters for the pro-military People Reform Party got mistaken for what? a Adverts for Pedigree Chum dog food. b Adverts for steamy new Netflix series Sex Education. c Adverts for a 70-year-old omakase sushi specialist in Bangkok for one night only. d Adverts for an electable political party. 3. A NIDA poll of voters discovered 36% of us believe that: a Prayuth’s photoshoot was better than most Vogue Thailand covers. b Party policies are more important than candidates. c Party policies are more important than candidates unless the candidate is Itim, in which case hubbahubba. d Nawapol’s BNK48 documentary didn’t really get to the root of Cherprang’s relationship with the other girls. 4. After Thai Raksa Chart was dissolved, its members were made to do what? a Work in the kitchens of bipolar, cocaine-addled farang chefs. b Collect back all banners loaned out to supporters. c Figure out how to farm bafun uni off the coast of Hua Hin. d Run. 5. Tickets to Phalang Pacharat’s fundraiser ball were worth B3 million because: a Nataphol did his impression of a horny elephant. b Gaggan served a 25-course dinner of dishes inspired by 7-Eleven snacks. c Somsak Thepsutin brought his prize fighting cocks. d You’ll be first in the queue for all the big government contracts.

dining

Answers

Next-level beef sandwiches

1 The correct answer is (c), now throw him to the lions. 2 The correct answer is (a), and here’s the evidence:

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3 The correct answer is (b). 100% of us think Prayuth’s shoot was better than Vogue Thailand.

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taste test

neighborhood

Fast-food French fries

Nanglinchee is happening

4 The correct answer is (b), though we’d also advise (d) if they know what’s good for them. 5 The correct answer is a figment of your imagination.

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upfront

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019

HOT OR NOT

Cr: MTV International

ACTION

Students blocking Asoke intersection in the name of climate change, an “upcycling” community mall popping up on Thonglor and a new recycling initiative building a plastic drop-off network around town—long accused of apathy, Bangkokians are starting to walk the walk when it comes to environmental action.

This award-winning chef is owning her winning streak INTERVIEW

Chef Garima Arora and her restaurant Gaa are on an unstoppable winning streak. Last November brought a Michelin star, February saw her awarded Asia’s Best Female Chef 2019 and this month she placed second in BK’s Top Tables Guide 2019. We spoke to her about influences, challenges and awards controversy.

“I don’t think I owe anybody an explanation as to why I accepted the award.” THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

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How does it feel to be named Asia’s Best Female Chef? It’s great to get recognition by my peers. We are really thrilled that 18 months into opening we have got so much love. What are the biggest challenges facing female chefs today? The amount of pressure we face from our choices. Take this award for example, so many people were against me accepting it, while others wanted me to take it—whatever you choose, you do something wrong. As women, there’s pressure to show that we are progressive and support other women. The best way to look at it, I believe, is to stop apologizing for our choices. I don’t think I owe anybody an explanation as to why I accepted the award. You’re the first Indian woman to receive a Michelin star. How do you hope it will impact other female Indian chefs? India hasn’t really been seen as a serious gastronomic destination other than just for comfort food. I hope that changes—I’m really passionate about how India has the resources to make a completely modern menu. You sit and eat at Gaa, and it’s not Indian, but I do use Indian techniques—I hope with all this success people will recognize that these techniques can be used to create something so relevant. You studied at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris. Where else shaped your cuisine? My time at Noma probably changed me most, not only as a cook but as a person. That whole approach to cooking still resonates at Gaa.

How so? Some might think we have Noma-inspired dishes or styles. The truth is, you can’t take recipes away from a restaurant like Noma, it’s impossible. A restaurant like Noma teaches you an attitude—it’s a way to be, a way to live your life and your career, so yes in that sense, you can compare us to Noma. What is your earliest food memory? Cooking with my father. I remember him making a tarte tatin with bananas and I was just amazed, he would tell me it was magic. I can still remember the first time he made sweet corn soup and I was so impressed by the texture. Who else has been influential in your journey? After Rene [Redzepi], I would say it was my father. If it wasn’t for him, I would’ve never gotten into food the way I have. Where is your favorite place to eat in Bangkok? I love Khua Kling Pak Sod. I recently discovered Bangkok Bold and I really enjoyed it. The Broccoli Burger at Broccoli Revolution is delicious and definitely Holey Bakery for the Sunshine Sandwich. Do you have any future projects? My main focus is Gaa, the team is getting so much stronger. The next challenge is for them to take over when I’m not around and to give them the same experiences that I’ve had. Megan Leon

Gaa, 68/4, 68/5 Lang Suan Rd., 091-419-2424

CANCELATIONS What did we ever do to deserve Ja Rule, not once but twice in the space of a year? Hua Hin’s Volo Festival drafted in the rapper and failed Fyre Festival mogul to take the place of the far more 2019-relevant 2 Chainz, who dropped out. Meanwhile, Pet Shop Boys have pulled the plug on their impending visit and Nicki Minaj probably still hasn’t heard the news she was meant to play here in April.

NETFLIX Has Stranger Things jumped the shark? Is the French tuck an actual thing? We’ve now got more important things to flip out over. Not only is the Tham Luang cave rescue operation reportedly going to be made into a Netflix Original series, we’ll soon be seeing Bangkok street food queen Jay Fai on screen as part of a Chef’s Table spinoff called Street Food. Win!

THAILAND 4.0 As revealed by a Reuters exclusive, the Election Commission’s “E-War Room” (seriously, that’s its name) is made up of six people at desktops printing and filing paper copies of social media posts. Or maybe that wasn’t the actual E-war room and just a little smokescreen so the EC can feel like it’s the one running things. Ha. Ha. Ha.

by Kathy MacLeod (IG: @kathy_macleod)

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BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019

things that prove Central Bangkok has something for everyone

More reasons to love this city

Central Bangkok— The heart of the city

You can (maybe) change your fortunes at some of Bangkok’s best-known shrines Central Bangkok has a ton of shrines to see, and there’s more to do here than take pics for the Gram. Visit the Trimurti Shrine (the one at CentralWorld) if you’re struggling with your dating life. The shrine has long been associated with matchmaking. While we can’t say you’ll meet the love of your life after visiting (we’ve met people who say this) it’s a neat bit of fun nonetheless. The Erawan Shrine (in front of the Grand Hyatt Erawan) is all about prosperity. Be prepared to be generous, though. The shrine has four sides, so you’re expected to bring four times the offerings!

You can easily get around Bangkok isn’t Tokyo or Taiwan, sure, but we’re getting there in terms of transportation. For our money, Central Bangkok has the best transportation in the city. It’s easy to zip around Central Bangkok (between the likes of Phloen Chit, Chit Lom or Siam. You can still access all the upscale department stores via BTS such as Central Embassy, CentralWorld, Central Chidlom and many others. These areas are also home to many of Bangkok's biggest flagship stores, like Uniqlo, Topshop, Coach, and Polo Ralph Lauren.

It’s a cradle for cafe culture The Instagram era has made Bangkok’s cafe scene explode in recent years, but these beautiful facades have something more to offer than

just pretty exteriors. Some established coffee bars, like Red Diamond (5/F, CentralWorld) have abandoned the longstanding practice of picking inauthentic, poorly roasted beans and have started utilizing special roasts and blends from notable sources. Inside Central Embassy's famous OPENHOUSE co-living space is Kay's—an all-day breakfast cafe focusing on light meals like avocado toast (B255) and French toast (B230). On the third floor of CentralWorld is a cafe that finds a pleasant balance between tasty and healthy, Ditto Modern Tea. Here, you can indulge in your favorite milk teas guilt free—all of their drinks are low in sugar. If the idea of ordering typical babao tea doesn't wow you, head to ATM Tea Bar (Central Embassy) where your order arrives in an ATMlike machine. There is also the new Starbucks Reserve—the biggest branch in Thailand so far that boast premium options like special draft coffees and nitro concoctions.

Bar spots that both light weight and heavy drinkers can enjoy You don’t have to be a heavy drinker to indulge in the city’s bar culture. Central Bangkok has basically every type of bar you could hope for at this point, ranging from specialty bars like Waldorf’s Champagne Bar and Centara’s Cru Champagne Bar, hidden spots like Hair of the Dog, and everyday drinking dens like Taproom. One of the most crowded and lively spots is Kenshin Izakaya (Groove, CentralWorld), a hotspot for the after-work crowd. They have a ton of Japanese

beer (in crazy flavors like Sakura and Popcorn). If you’re one of those people who love hopping on the latest events, head to Siwilai City Club (Central Embassy) where the ongoing Siwilai Tour regularly brings some of the city’s best to perform. Located on Park Hyatt's rooftop, Penthouse Bar & Grill is an elegant space that can accommodate up to 80 guests. Try one of their special whiskies and champagnes or order some of their 127 wine labels (B340/glass). Another big name among the rooftop bars scene is Centara's Red Sky Bar, where late drinkers can dig into dishes like the smoked lamb meatballs (B695).

Food‚ food‚ food Central Embassy’s Eathai (Central Embassy)—a large food market catering regional dishes to local and tourists alike—is great for provincial Thai tastes. Tuck into mantis shrimp noodles from Kang Baan Phe in Rayong, pad Thai from Pad Thai Savoey on Ladprao Soi 71, and grilled squid from Ang Sila. Try some of the best flavors from the Middle East at Beirut (Foodloft, Central Chidlom). Here, nan breads are made fresh and the falafel comes out crunchy true to its origin. But the real highlight is mankoushe (B100), a kind of Lebanese pizza. Fans of Spanish food can head to the tapas bar operated by Uno Mas (Foodhall Central Chidlom) for raw Galician razor clam ceviche (B490) or what the chef calls “Mock Tuna” (B290); cubes of Sangria-drenched watermelon on ice. Visit OPENHOUSE, the award-winning co-living space, which is also a perfect hub for dining thanks to places like Peppina with its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas.

Central Bangkok is arguably the city’s most illustrious destination—for travelers and locals alike. There’s a higher concentration of restaurants, bars, shrines and shops across Phloen Chit, Ratchadamri, Wireless Road and Rama IV. Central Bangkok also includes luxury hotels, restaurants and high-end residences. Among these are some of the biggest names in the hospitality industry, such as Park Hyatt Bangkok, Centara Grand at CentralWorld, Conrad, Waldorf Astoria Bangkok, The Athenee Bangkok. At a glance, Central’s original flagship property, Central Chidlom, has long been the preferred shopping destination for people of all ages and lifestyles. For more sophisticated aficionados, head to the retail beacon of Bangkok, Central Embassy, which meets the standards of high-end lifestyles with its beyond-excellent service. The mall also received three awards under the 2018 ICSC Asia-Pacific Shopping Centre Awards from the International Council Shopping Centres. But if you're talking about everyone's favorite, heading to CentralWorld is always is a choice that can’t go wrong—it basically has it all when it comes to shopping and is a hub of events as well. These places come together to form the “Heart of Bangkok”—the cultural and lifestyle centerpiece of this great city. It’s also the scene of some of the city’s best events, including a massive NYE celebration at the flagship CentralWorld, and others like the Tastes of The World Festival and Flower Festival. With 30,000 visitors per day, Central Bangkok is truly one of the world’s great bustling metro centers. centralbangkok.com centralbangkok

Brought to you by Central Bangkok

cover | the new face of soi 11

Guess who’s back Sukhumvit Soi 11’s party central has a new lease on life. By Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj

ME E T THE NE IGHBORS DAMIAN MACKAY, GENERAL MANAGER OF HEMINGWAY WHY DID YOU CHOOSE SOI 11 FOR YOUR BUSINESS? Mackay: Opportunity. We started looking for a new location after we found out we had to close. We knew the community mall was going to open on Soi 11, then we found out that Zak’s was closing, so we made an offer to the landlord to demolish everything and rebuild something similar to the old Hemingway’s.

Remember debauched dinner parties at Bed Supperclub? After-work drinks at Cheap Charlie’s? Drinking out of booze trucks while feasting on street food? Or is Soi 11 just an amnesic haze of bad decisions culminating in a bottle of Singha on the sidewalk at 4am? In March 2017, the shutting down of beloved names like Cheap Charlie’s and Charley Brown’s to make way for redevelopment (reportedly now earmarked as Hotel Plaza, oh joy) felt like the nail in the coffin. Since then, we’ve seen the soi grow increasingly shady. What used to be Bangkok’s party central, where flashy night spots like Bed Supperclub rubbed shoulders with cheerful beer bars, has slipped into a wilderness of condo development, empty land plots and no shortage of tourists looking for short-time love.

Success stories like Soho Hospitality’s Havana Social and Above Eleven have been in the minority. But that might be changing. A recent wave of new openings marks a shift towards a chicer vision of the soi, driven by a swanky new community mall that would feel at home on Thonglor, as well as the return of expat party hangout Hemingway (formerly on Sukhumvit Soi 14). Don’t believe us that Soi 11 might be ripe for a comeback? Reserve judgement till you’ve checked out these latest spots.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT SOI’S 11 CURRENT VIBE? Mackay: I’ve seen a lot of changes in the last six to seven years. It used to be a very clubby soi, that’s fair to say, but that put the street on the map. Now it’s good to see nice restaurants and high-end condos giving this soi a new vibe. I think some people won’t come to [the new Hemingway] because it’s Soi 11, but they need to give it a try. Soi 11 is not as seedy as before. When Climax and Bed Supperclub opened, followed by Levels and Insanity, it became really clubby. Then you had more restaurants like Oskar, 8 On Eleven or Alex Brasserie which gave more daytime options for people.

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MEET THE NEIGHBOR S

ROHIT SACHDEV, FOUNDER OF SOHO HOSPITALITY (CHARCOAL, HAVANA SOCIAL, BRASSERIE CORDONNIER, THE BAR UPSTAIRS, CANTINA AND SOHO PIZZA)

WHEN DID YOU OPEN YOUR BUSINESS ON SOI 11? Sachdev: We opened Above Eleven in 2012. I was born on this soi, it was always residential, then it began to transform to commercial. Today, I believe that it has reached its peak. I think it started with Q Bar and Bed Supperclub and hotels like the Ambassador that have been open since the ‘80s.

WHY DO YOU SAY IT HAS REACHED ITS PEAK? Sachdev: It’s really more of a commercial area now. The more commercial it became, the higher the value. Many people who own land on this street have sold their properties, it’s no longer affordable for a single residence. In lower Sukhumvit, I don’t think there’s another street that has more value than Soi 11. Back in 2004, land value was about B400,000 per four square meters, today it’s over B2 million.

DO YOU THINK RECENT DEVELOPMENTS WILL BRING A BETTER CROWD TO SOI 11? Sachdev: Soi 11 has gone through its ups and downs. When Bed Supperclub and Q Bar closed, I would say the quality of people went downhill. For the past three to four years though, it’s on the rise again. Soho Group is currently looking to build another 300-room hotel on the street next year. Recently, the taxi mafia have no longer been allowed to park, which helps a lot.

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BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019

OLD T IMES BK’S FAVORITE SOI 11 HANGOUTS THAT HAVE STOOD THE TEST OF TIME

HAVANA SOCIAL

Find The Photo Booth

Cali-Mex Bar and Grill

It’s so packed we can hardly breathe, let alone dance, but we still get the urge to go there every Friday night.

CHARCOAL

A super-sleek new speakeasy The team that brought us The Locker Room have invaded Sukhumvit Soi 11 with another hard-to-find speakeasy, Find The Photo Booth. The drinks menu takes on the classics alongside their Thai-twisted companions. The 20th Century (B360) takes its name from its origins aboard the Twentieth Century Limited Rail, a train service that ran between New York and Chicago, and combines Gordon’s gin, bianco vermouth, creme de cacao and fresh lemon juice. Its modern Thai spin-off, dubbed Sorry, Only BTS this Century (B390), creatively plays with the cacao taste by rimming the glass with dried coconut and chocolate, before mixing coconut-infused Botanist gin with white sesame vermouth, hazelnut liqueur and fresh lemon juice. We can’t tell you exactly where the bar is, as that’s part of the fun, but look out for a functioning photo booth. Sukhumvit Soi 11, 02-117-2636. Open daily 6pm-2am

A new sports bar that doesn't suck

Opened mid-2018, Score Bar has become a popular destination for Bangkok fans wanting to catch a game. Tucked on the second floor of 8 on Eleven, the bar's glass walls allow you to look over the chaos of the street without having to get involved in any of it. Here, as well as screening most sports on their five screens, they offer a pool table, foosball table and a very popular beer pong table. There's also a photo booth for random drunken photos (hint hint). Drinks here are typical for a sports bar, a pint of Tiger beer will set you back B160, but head there for happy hour between 5-9pm when it drops to just B120—at that price, we'd drink it for water. 2/F, 14 Sukhumvit Soi 11, 02-117-2636. Open daily 5pm-2am

A community mall to rival Thonglor’s with a fancy condo on the other side

Hidden above French restaurant, Brasserie Cordonnier, The Bar Upstairs cuts through Soi 11's touristy, party vibe with its casual secret garden-evoking decor. The drinks menu features 160 labels of wine from all around the world, starting from as low as B160/ glass for the dry and fresh Spanish Airen, L’Ave De Presa, Ucles. We love their South African organic red wine, Percheron—made using a Shiraz Mourvedre grape, which originates from the Rhone valley in France (B1,010 per bottle). The Bar Upstairs also offers casual French cuisine, ideal for fun, light snacking—but for something more filling, order the croque monsieur stuffed with Parisian ham, Mornay sauce and baked emmental cheese (B290).

Underrated little live music bar hidden among the street’s shenanigans.

Old German Beerhouse isn’t gone forever

A good spot for pregaming for those Soi 11-goers who are too fancy for Leo. Bonus: Daniel Thaiger burgers.

As one of Soi 11’s favorite and least seedy sports bars, this beerhouse's closure would have been a setback. Luckily, they have announced they're just renovating and they'll be reopening again in mid 2019. In the meantime, the bar has moved to temporary digs over on Soi 13—super-easy to access via the Ambassador Hotel.

Hemingway is back! It was one of Bangkok’s most loved bars and, though sadly no one can bring back the exquisite old teak house with its iconic tree that used to sit beside BTS Asoke, the team are painstakingly recreating the old venue in its new location—right down to the floor tiles which they’ve sourced from Spain. Also watch out for a surprise on the second floor that will make you ditch W District.

WHEN DID YOU OPEN YOUR BUSINESS?

WHAT WAS SOI 11 LIKE WHEN YOU FIRST CAME?

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT THE SOI NOW?

Sim: We opened the official Manchester United restaurant/ bar here in 2008. We turned into Champion Bar in 2013, which closed in 2015 as the building was sold. Within a year, we came back as 8 on Eleven around the corner.

Sim: There used to be more shop-houses and residential buildings. I remember when there were little vans selling alcohol in buckets on the street. Of course, if I were a tourist I would have loved it, but as a business owner, I wasn’t happy—they were stealing business. They just drove in and didn’t even have to pay rent. After the last election, seven to eight years ago, they wiped all that out.

Sim: I’m excited. Soi 11 usually goes through cycles of boom and down time. After Q Bar and Bed Supperclub left, Oskar and Above Eleven came. I think the combination of old and new players makes Soi Eleven exciting and I can feel that we are coming up the hill again.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE SOI 11? Sim: We liked the soi—it was right in the city center and it was buzzing but wasn’t seedy. Of course, you get that kind of stuff too, but not Soi 4 kind of seedy.

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AUSTRALIAN PUB How many more Maroon 5 songs are we going to have to listen to?

BREW, BEER & CIDER

ABOVE ELEVEN Soi 11 also has a rooftop bar—we often forget that.

OSKAR A place where the girls who flirt with you may have ulterior motives.

SUGAR CLUB Where else can you get gangsta hip-hop in a real gangsta atmosphere?

3/F, 33/30 Sukhumvit Soi 11, 02-821-5110. Open Sun-Thu 5pm-midnight; Fri-Sat 5pm-2am

JACQUELINE SIM, DIRECTOR OF VENTURE GROUP (#FINDTHEPHOTOBOOTH, #FINDTHELOCKERROOM, PING’S RESTAURANTS GROUP, 8 ON ELEVEN, SCORE BAR)

APOTEKA

Eleven mall comes with plenty of establishments for daytime hangouts like Cali-Mex Bar and Grill and the hidden Mexican bar upstairs Los Atico; Soho Hospitality’s New York-style Soho Pizza and a second more Neapolitan pizza-focussed branch of Ari’s Cantina. Other familiar names include Shakariki 432, After You cafe, a new place by the people behind Phrom Phong’s Sri Trat called Burapa, and Fowlmouth fried chicken (see, just like Thonglor!). With more names added to the compound, like Indian joint Saras for Indian food, Eak Hideya for ramen, Hola Tapas for Spanish, Lebanese House and Artisan Craft Burger joined by Deluxe Spa for a relaxing massage after all that eating, this is shaping up to be a real hub of activity. Just across the road from that, a luxury condo Hyde, starting at B4.7 million a pop, comes with plenty of benefits and also Rocket Coffeebar on the ground floor.

Sukhumvit Soi 13, 02-168-7898. Open daily 4pm-1:30am

A classy wine bar

A pioneer of Indian fine dining in Bangkok.

DO YOU THINK RECENT DEVELOPMENTS WILL BRING A BETTER CROWD TO SOI 11? Sim: Yeah, for sure. First, I think better hotels and better business concepts are going to come in, then those will attract a better crowd—of course, there’s nothing wrong with the previous crowd. Interesting concepts bring in interesting people.

3/22/19 5:12 PM

hit list | 25 new reasons to love bangkok

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019

British luxury sofa specialist opens flagship store in Bangkok DECOR

For those mad about classic British looks, now you can get the look with the opening of Alexander & James. Located on Sukhumvit Soi 39, the picturesque two-story teal blue showroom houses stunning collections of sofas upholstered in 100-percent natural leathers, rich wools and soft velvet fabrics from William Morris, while all wood materials used are said to be sourced from sustainable forests from around the world—Thailand included. The armchair range is also not to be overlooked, coming in an array of handsome and chic designs, from classic Chesterfield-style buttoned wing chairs to modern-style armchairs in vivid colored velvets. All furniture is made-to-order. To own one of their stylish creations, you can choose the type of sofa or chair you want, as well as mix and match fabrics and leathers. But be prepared to splash your cash—the starting price for the “Jude” chair in plain fabric is B33,000, while the leather “Sadler” sofa is B92,000. Founded in 2013 by creative furniture designer Mark “Alexander” Smith and businessman and design enthusiast David “James” Lee, the brand has come to be synonymous with statement, “laid back luxe” sofas rooted in British heritage. Sukhumvit Soi 39, 092-350-8988. Open daily 10am-6:30pm

NUMEROLOGY

Japan’s discount megastore Don Don Donki has finally opened in Bangkok—here are 5 brilliantly wacky items on offer: B399

For a maid cosplay outfit

B499

For a party wig

B580

For Sailor Moon eyeliner

B650

For a corset face band

B690

For a steam sauna poncho

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WELLNESS

SHOPPING

SMARTPHONES

02 Unwind in style at Calm

03 Bangkok’s favorite ballet 04 Samsung’s latest

Spa’s new spot

flats have a new store

The team behind Ari’s chic mid-century Calm Spa have taken their much-loved resort-spa experience to a second home in the heart of Sukhumvit, and true to the brand, here you can unwind in style. Nestled at the end of Soi Song Phi Nong, Calm Cottage takes a similar hip, minimal route to its sister branch, only in a more intimate space. Try the 90-minute “Cottage Signature Massage” (B1,500), a combination of Thai and warm oil massage focusing on “office syndrome” areas, or the stress-busting 60-minute “Cottage Indian Head and Hand Massage” (B550). Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02077-7172. Open daily 10am-9pm

If you’re seeking comfortable and smart flats to wear to work, your prayers have been answered. Super-popular local shoemaker O&B has finally opened its first store at Emporium and it’s a footwear wonderland. With its huge floral archway and pastel pink velvet seating, the store feels delightfully dreamy and luxurious—we won’t blame you for splurging. Don’t miss the fan favorite “Audrey” sheepskin flats (B2,890) and the Bambi limited edition collection (B3,890). 1/F, The Emporium, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-047-6467. Open daily 10am-10pm

Shop Talk How to spend your hardearned baht.

BUY IT PUMA CALI SNEAKERS Strut into summer with these cool ‘80s-inspired kicks (B3,999).

flagship is what we’ve been waiting for

What: Samsung Galaxy S10 Price: B31,900 Why? The most anticipated phone of 2019 comes with three major improvements. It offers a 6.1-inch amoled Infinity-O Display that literally stretches to the very edges—meaning a laser cut hole had to be placed in the screen for its front camera. The Galaxy S10 has also moved on to the ultrasonic “under the glass” fingerprint sensor, meaning you can swiftly unlock your phone. The triple-lens camera also takes normal, telephoto and ultra-wide photos. Apple, take note.

BIN IT MEN’S PLUNGING V-NECK T-SHIRTS Please, no one asked to see that over-exposed triangle of chest hair.

BARGAIN HEJ STREET BEAUTY “GET READY FOR SUMMER” SALE Enjoy 50-percent discounts and buy one, get one free on makeup, perfume and skincare products through Mar 31.

3/22/19 5:13 PM

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019

HANGIN' IN THE GARAGE Bangkok's latest themed hotel goes all-in on automotive chic

Lobby Standard room

53Cafe and Bar

Safari room

Bangkok has no shortage of unique little hotels— from lavish and elegant boutique stays to down-toearth themed hotels. If you like tiny hotels that go heavy on motifs, MeStyle Garage Hotel in Huaykwang is definitely worth a look. There’s been a subtle trend recently of venues mimicking the vibe and aesthetic of garages, and MeStyle, as a hotel, embodies this trend. Its lobby walls are plastered with crinkled brass, an empty car chassis sits chopped up behind murals of funky garage shops in the waiting area, there are seats and tables made out of what look like old tires, and in general the place really nails the garage vibe — minus all the oil, clinking noises and tools laying around. Room-wise, each space is slightly different in layout and design, but they all feature funky-chic decorative touches: heart-shaped car wires as wall decorations, motorcycle mirrors as tissue holders, and exposed metallic bars and pipes across the walls Brought to you by MeStyle Garage

the ceilings. If all of that themed decor isn’t enough for you, there are six “experience” rooms—one on each floor. Each one stacks a new theme on top of the normal garage items in eclectic ways. There’s a “Safari” room with jungle-inspired animal murals and a fake animals hanging on the walls, a “Casanova” space with BMW murals and steampunk-esque touches, and a “Into the Wood” room that kind of feels like a hipster’s cabin in the Canadian forest. The venue isn’t a hostel, but it positions itself as a social hotel and uses its second floor and bar, 53Cafe and Bar, as the main communal areas for guests to meet. The bar sticks to the garage and automotive theme—there’s a painted van in the center and neon lighting throughout. In terms food, expect riffs on Thai and Western dishes like spicy larb burgers (B290), shrimp and mango entrees and strawberry banana milkshakes (B140).

For more information:

mestylegarage.com

mestylegaragehotel

mestylegarage

53 Pracha Rat Bamphen 7 Alley, Huaykwang. MRT Huaykwang. 02-275-8855

hit list | calendar

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019

NIGHTLIFE

This family-friendly boat race promises a weekend of Thai festivities

BK Pick LUNICE The Canadian DJ and music producer performs his signature heavy beats live. Mar 29, 9pm. Beam, 1/F, 72 Courtyard, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 02-392-7750. B300-500 via Ticketmelon.

L0UD 365 Party all night long with techno beats from Bangkok-based DJs Charlie Kwenta and Hexter. Mar 29, 9pm. Mustache Bar, 544/5 Ratchadaphisek Soi 7, 081-844-7080. Free before 11pm/ B300 after (includes one drink).

FESTIVAL

Replacing the controversial annual elephant polo of former years, Anantara’s Elephant Boat Race & River Festival promises a weekend of fun. International teams, including Thailand’s Navy Seals, will race down the Chao Phraya River in elephant-themed dragon boats, while an educational art installation from Golden Triangle Elephant Foundation will take place on dry land. The family-friendly event will also feature plenty of food, drinks, a fun fair and a vintage car exhibition, as well as live music and cultural performances. Mar 29-31, 10am. Anantara Riverside, 257 Charoengkrung Rd., 02-476-0022. B4009,000 via www.bangkokriverfestival.com.

CONCERT

06 John Mayer to liven up mid-week Bangkok Beat hump day on Apr 3 with a little help from John Mayer (8:30pm. B2,0007000 on Thaiticketmajor), the American guitarist and smooth-rocker known for stripped-back ‘00s acoustic hits like “Your Body is a Wonderland” and newer electro-tinged tracks like “New Light.” He’s promising to play “two sets of music with more songs in rotation than ever before.”

SIWILAI TOUR: A GATHERING IN THE SKY British DJ, music producer and UK Radio 1 presenter Benji B leads a night of future electronic sounds with support from Paulie Sirisant, Supersonic and DJ To-ru. Mar 30, 8pm. Siwilai City Club, 5/F, Central Embassy, 1031 Ploenchit Rd., 02-160-5631. B900 via Ticketmelon.

SO POOL PARTY Cool off from the summer heat with a DJ-fueled pool party—arrive in style with their limousine pick-up package (B30,000/eight guests). Mar 30, 1-9pm. SO Sofitel, 2 North Sathorn Rd., 02624-0000. B600, includes one drink. GO GRRRLS: QUEER POWER FEAT. AMAZON SUN & ZYMONE Bangkok’s LGBT-friendly party returns in a new location with local DJs and a drag performance by Zymone. Mar 30, 9pm. Penta, 582/25 Sukhumvit Soi 63, 091-632-8859. B250, includes one drink.

COMEDY

07 British comedian Jimmy Carr returns

with hilarious dark humor

After a successful visit back in 2016, British stand-up comedian Jimmy Carr will return to Bangkok on Mar 29 for two successive shows at 8pm and 10:30pm. Known for his “offensive” brand of dark humor, Carr is a regular face on UK TV, hosting hits like Channel 4’s panel show 8 Out of 10 Cats and The Big Fat Quiz of the Year. Be prepared for deadpan delivery, guilt-inducing laughs and heckler interaction.The Westin Grande, 259 Sukhumvit Soi 19, 02-207-8000. B1,800 via www.comedyclubbangkok.com.

SPLASH POOL PARTY X HOOTERS Ditch the usual house/electronic sounds for old-school hip-hop, classic remixes and sing-alongs by the pool, with an open bar from 2-3pm. Mar 31, 2-8:30pm. Aloft Bangkok, 35 Sukhumvit Soi 11, 02-207-7000. B300.

SPLASH OUT

PLAN YOUR SONGKRAN AROUND THESE KILLER EVENTS If you’re stuck in the city during Songkran, don’t miss Fatboy Slim at this year’s S2O Festival on Apr 13 at Live Park Rama 9. Tickets start at B1,700/day at www.s2ofestival.com.

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Get wet by the pool at W Hotel (106 North Sathorn Rd., 02-344-4000) with local DJs on Apr 13 and a Blaq Lyte takeover on Apr 14. One-day tickets start at B790 day on Eventpop.

If you want to get out of the city without travelling too far, head to Volo Festival at Vana Nava Water Jungle in Hua Hin (129/99 Phetkasem Rd.) to party with American rappers A$AP Rocky and Ja Rule. Tickets are B2,500 for two days (Apr 13-14) at www.volofestival.com.

SAFE ROOM ANNIVERSARY: MAN POWER Our favorite Silom nightclub celebrates its third birthday with enigmatic British DJ Man Power (Geoff Kirkwood), supported by Sunju Hargun and Elaheh. Apr 4, 9pm. Safe Room, 2/F, Whiteline, Silom Soi 8, 087-061-1117. Free. A$AP Rocky

MENDY INDIGO & FRIENDS Smirnoff We’re Open promotes gender equality with a night of female DJs. Apr 3, 9pm. Sing Sing Theater, Sukhumvit Soi 45, 063-2251331. B250, includes one drink.

FRENQUENCY (NL) The Dutch producer performs a live set of electronic music with touches of hip-hop, tropical bass, footwork and jungle. Apr 5, 9pm. The Overstay, Charan Sanit Wong Soi 40, 064-723-4975. B150. BK Pick PHATFUNK FEAT. ANT TC1 Bangkok’s original drum ‘n’ bass party welcomes a British DJ and music producer, with support from Thaistick and PhatFunk resident DJs Azek and DeLorean. Apr 5, 9pm. De Commune, 1/F, Liberty Plaza, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 088-419-7380. B300.

WESTIN POOL PARTY Gear up for Songkran at this pool party, with techno beats from local DJs. Apr 6, 1-9pm The Westin Grande Sukhumvit, 259 Sukhumvit Rd, 02-207-8000. B400.

LIVE MUSIC

DIRTY SOUND DAY Four live bands each demonstrate different sounds, from Native (post punk , synth rock) to Low Fly (shoegaze, lo-gaze) to Telever (nu-gaze, noise rock, alternative rock, grunge). Mar 29, 8pm. Jam, Charoen Rat Soi 1, 089-8898059. B200, includes one drink. COBAIN: THE DAY KURT WENT AWAY Six local bands pay tribute to everything Nirvana. Apr 5, 7:30pm. The Rock Pub, 93/26, Phaya Thai Rd., 099191-5666. B300.

BIG DAY COMING Another night of eclectic sounds featuring six local bands: Yellow Fang (indie rock); Hariguem Zaboy (nose rock); Little Fox (indie folk); Folk9 (dream pop); Bobkat (trash punk) and Dogwhine (experimental rock). Apr 6, 5pm. De Commune, 1/F, Liberty Plaza, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 088-419-7380. B350.

ART ART & WINE: ACRYLICS & PICASSO Let free-flow wine be the gateway to your inner-Picasso. Mar 30, 4:30pm. Paron School of Art, 2/F, Baker Gonna Bake Cafe, 61 Sukhumvit Soi 26, 089-795-8765. B2,400

3/22/19 5:15 PM

food & drink

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019

ADVERTORIAL

FEAST OF A DEAL

Pushing Thai forward

4 Bangkok restaurants reviving traditional Thai cuisine Bo.lan

Nahm

24 Sukhumvit Soi 53, 02-260-2962. Open Tue-Sun 6-10:30pm; Sat-Sun noon-2pm

COMO Metropolitan, 27 Sathorn Rd., 02-625-3388. Open daily 6:30-10:30pm; Mon-Fri noon-2pm

How: Chef-owners Duangporn Songvisava and Dylan Jones have pushed Thai fine dining to its limits with royal recipes and rare ingredients. Their multi-course menu changes quarterly based on seasonal produce from local farmers and their own garden.

Get 10% discount on food only for lunch or get 2 complimentary glasses of signature mocktail valued THB 660++ for dinner (limit 2 glasses /card /table /sales slip) Today - 31 Aug 19

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Bo.lan

Get a complimentary extra dish and a beverage valued THB 1,200 when spending THB 5,000 or more /sales slip (limit 1 set / card /table /sales slip)

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Chim by Siam Wisdom

How: Fiercely authentic and traditional, Chef Chumpol Jangprai divides the set menu into three options: ancient, classic and innovative, which all rotate seasonally. They never compromise on high-quality produce, often shipping in ingredients from all over the country depending on who does it best. 66 Sukhumvit Soi 31,66 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 02-260-7811. Open daily noon-2pm, 6-10:30pm Get 10% discount on food only Today - 31 Dec 19

Saneh Jaan

How: A menu packed with traditional and hard-to-find dishes and a dream -list of high-quality and difficult-to -find ingredients. Saneh Jaan has mastered a style of traditional Thai food that locals adore and craveâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; those Michelin inspectors, too. Glasshouse at Sindhorn, Wireless Rd., 02-650-9880. Open daily 11:30am-2pm, 6-10pm Get a complimentary Thai dessert valued THB 300 when spending via Citi credit card (limit 1 dish /card /table /sales slip) Today - 31 Dec 19

Brought to you by Citi

CITI-FineDining-BK#759-2.indd 11

Chim by Siam Wisdom

Saneh Jaan

3/22/19 5:27 PM

hit list | calendar

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019

includes materials, nibbles and free-flow wine.

This exhibition is a celebration of unexpected artistic talents

BK Pick TIAN TIAN XIANG SHANG A showcase of white china dolls that have been painted and transformed by Thai activists, politicians and artists to represent things that they believe in. Through Apr 12, 10am-9pm. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-2146630. Free.

TENDERNESS LOST BY AURELE LOSTDOG Explore a series of paintings, drawings and sculptures in the collaborative “Lost Dog” installation. Through Apr 30, 10am-6:30pm. PT Gallery, 48-58 Charoenkrung Soi 30, 02-266-4344. Free. EXHIBITION

IN LOVE: EXHIBITION BY KANIS Love is in the air at this art cafes’ exhibition of cute illustrations. Through Apr 1, 10am-7pm. 10mL Cafe Gallery, 65/21 Vibhavadi Rangsit Soi 16/6, 089-465-6915. Free.

Accidentally Professional is an exhibition by three artists, each of whom come from different backgrounds and professions but all have discovered a hidden talent for art. Phichai Kaewvichit, a motorbike taxi driver, is showing his self-taught photography skills that have gone viral; Rapi Rikulsurakan, who serves the judiciary of Thailand, is showcasing his calligraphy; and fine arts graduate Patsachon Toyingpaiboon is exhibiting her simple line illustrations. Through Mar 31, 7am-7pm. Silpa Bhirasri’s Place, 153 Ratchawithi Rd., 089-775-7886.

TIME FINE ART EXHIBITION How do you define time? Nine artists answer this question through their own fine art. Through Apr 30, 6-9pm. 333Gallery, 23 Trok Rongnamkaeng, Yotha Rd., 081-845-1371. Free.

CONCERT

09 Grammy-winning R&B singer

10 Thailand’s Lover Boy is returning

Daniel Caesar is coming to Bangkok

Gig organizer Very has announced that they are bringing over Canadian singer-songwriter Daniel Caesar on Jul 25. The 23-year-old made a name for himself in 2014 when he released his debut EP Praise Break, which made it onto Rolling Stone’s “20 Best R&B Albums” for that year. Since then, he’s released hit tunes like “Get You,” “We Find Love” and “Best Part” feat. H.E.R.—the latter of which landed him the 2019 Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance. The Bangkok gig will take place at Thunder Dome, Muang Thong Thani. Tickets are B2,600 and will go on sale on Mar 31 via Ticketmelon.

to home soil

After selling-out gigs across the US, Europe and Asia last year, emerging Thai artist Phum Viphurit is returning to home soil. On Apr 5, he’ll be joined by new Thai duo Whal & Dolph at Hard Rock Cafe (Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-4090). Phum released his first album in 2017, making a name for himself with hits like “Adore,” “Strangers In A Dream,” “Trial and Error” and his smash single “Lover Boy.” Whal & Dolph came to the spotlight last year when they received The Guitar Mag award for New Wave Of the Year 2019. Ticketing packages start at B2,500 for six people, which includes a bottle of Bacardi Rum or Dewar’s 12 Years with free mixers.

THE LIGHT OF DAY BY UTHIS HAEMAMOOL A Thai painter exposes the beauty in everyday activities through light and shadow. Apr 4-May 20, 11am-10pm. The Jam Factory, 41/1-5 Charoen Nakhon Rd. Free.

FAIR BK Pick READY, PACK, GO! Prepare your next summer holiday with talks and workshops on various destinations and topics, including a talk about camping. Mar 30-31, 11am-6pm. The Commons, Thonglor Soi 17, 089-1522677. Free.

THE NEWSMAKERS’ 13TH CLUTTER SALE FOR CHARITY A fair featuring over 70 booths of used and new branded items at bargain prices, from fashion, gadgets, vintage goods and home decor to rare treasures donated by local VIPs. Funds raised go to Chulalongkorn Hospital’s Genetic Cancer Research Center. Mar 30, 10am-5pm. Anantara Siam, 155 Ratchadamri Rd., 02-126-8866. Free.

MARKETS

T77 YARD SALE VOLUME 4 Shop both new and good quality second-hand items at over 60 vendors with a workshop on natural tie-dye. Mar 30, 11am-6pm. Habito Mall, 45/19 Sukhumvit Soi 77 (On Nut), 02-136-5932. Free.

GARDEN MARKET A mini market in the back garden of Landhaus bakery, featuring new, second-hand and discounted defect or prototype items from designers like Aprilpoolday and J Vineyard. Mar 30-31, noon-8pm. Landhaus, 18 Phahon Yothin Soi 5, 081-902-9183.

SCREENING EX LIBRIS: THE NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY A screening of a FIPRESCI Award-winning documentary followed by a talk with Thai graphic designer and Matichon columnist Pracha Suweeranon. Apr 5, 4pm. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-6630. B100.

LES FOURBERIES DE SCAPIN (THEATRE ON SCREEN) Based on Moliere’s piece, a story of two fathers who have just returned from a trip determined to marry their sons to two strangers. French with English and Thai subtitles. Mar 30, 5pm. Alliance Francaise Bangkok, 179 Wireless Rd., 02-670-4200. B100-200.

420

GET A DOUBLE HIT OF CANNABIS CULTURE

Thailand 420

NEW-Calendar-BK#759-29MAR2019.indd 12

Yung Lean

In the wake of Thailand’s medical cannabis legalization, two festivals are here to celebrate the biggest day of the year for smokers: Apr 20. Highland, the team who has been fighting for marijuana legalization, will throw their fifth annual Thailand 420 event at Kingdom of Art and Music (Rom Klao Rd., 093-635-2939), this year offering free entry. In tandem, the guys behind Blaq

Lyte will be hosting their own three-day cannabis festival titled Pan Buriram at Chang International Circuit (444 Moo 15, Buriram, 093-838-3331) from Apr 19-21, headlined by Swedish rapper Yung Lean. Tickets are B420 for one day or B1,000 for three days at www.allticket.com. Both events will have medical professionals giving talks about the pros and cons of cannabis.

3/22/19 5:16 PM

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019

Who says Thai fine-dining and lager don’t match? 5 Thai fine-dining restaurants with menus that go great with a cold one at your side

R-Haan

Sri Trat

Osha

Saneh Jaan

Siam Wisdom

R-Haan

Sri Trat

Osha

Saneh Jaan

Siam Wisdom

Type: Royal Thai

Type: Eastern Thai

Type: Modern Thai

Type: Royal Thai

Type: Contemporary Thai

Example dishes: v—a classic smoked Thai pork sausage made from steamed river fish, chopped galangal and jasmine rice served with a side of pla-nam. Another is the fresh abalone (sea snails) from Phuket, which are triple boiled with some spicy Thai herbs.

Example dishes: Dips like lon pu kai (B540)—a creamy chili mixture made with the sweet flesh of a whole mud crab. There’s also curries like the chamuang leaf curry (B220) that are soothing and wellstewed with delicate sour notes and packed with plentiful chunks of melt-in-yourmouth braised pork.

Example dishes: The creamy, 48-hours braised massaman lamb curry is rich and decadent, both in texture and the imported ingredients. The menu mostly riffs on traditional Thai staples, like the pad krapow made with imported Australian beef.

Example dishes: Gaeng ranjuan (shrimp-paste and pork soup, B380), which is smooth yet complex thanks to the salty shrimp paste, sour lime, which add a touch of sweetness and some spicy kick. There are also dishes like kak moo pad prik khing (stir-fried pork rinds with chili, salted egg and kaffir lime, B450).

Example dishes: Nam tok (spicy Thai beef salad) with ribeye steak in a parmesan taco shell (B280) and duck confit with chili paste (B580).

Why it pairs well with lager: the mild, light taste of lagers pair great with spicy food and strong flavors, especially R-Haan’s pungent smoked Thai sausage. Lighter beers also match well with seafood by helping to enhance the sweet, delicate flavors. Price of Singha: B180

Brought to you by Singha food

Why it pairs well with lager: One thing all these dishes have in common: strong salty flavors. A lighter lager helps to cut through this, tone it down and reach a state of balance. This is also why bar snacks, in general, are salty. Price of Singha: B150

Why it pairs well with lager: The menu can jump all over the Thai map, from spicy southern curries to mild stirfries and all kinds of ideas in between. Generally speaking, the flavors of lager spread well enough across the board to match most of the menu items without disaster. Price of Singha: B195

Why it pairs well with lager: The soft body of a lager helps to tone down the richness of fatty foods like pork rinds and balance out salty dishes like gaeng ranjuan. Price of Singha: B160

Why it pairs well with lager: Nam tok, along with other staple salads like somtum and larb, is a part of the essential Thai culinary canon. As such, it will likely challenge most people’s tolerance for spicy heat. While beer isn’t going to take that kick away (its doesn’t have enough alcohol for that), it does help to bring the non-explosive flavors to the front. Price of Singha: B160

travel | tokyo

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019

Cr: Jess Fin

Blue Bottle Coffee

Smokehouse by T.Y Harbor Brewery

Aoyama Cemetery

Shibuya’s high-end neighbor steps back from the tourist droves. By Kankanok Wichiantanon

okyo’s home of high fashion isn’t all B100,000 handbags. Aoyama might be exclusive, but it’s also relaxed, slow-paced and inviting compared to chaotic and touristy neighbors Shibuya and Harajuku. In fact, one of Tokyo’s wealthiest neighborhoods offers a mix of hip-retro and elegant cutting-edge. We’ve unpacked its small streets to discover the sweetest spots to eat and shop.

Minamiaoyama It’s crucial to come to this street hungry if you don’t want to miss out on trying its many delish offerings. Warm up with a coffee at Blue Bottle Coffee (3-13-14 Minamiaoyama. www. bluebottlecoffee.com). With nine branches across Tokyo and counting, demand only seems to be intensifying for their signature mellow blend drip coffee and super-smooth lattes. Just across the street, Parisian-style bakery Qu’il Fait Bon (3-18-5 Minamiaoyama. www.quil-fait-bon.com) is the place to head for a slice or two of cake or pie—with nearly 20 options laid out decadently on the long counter, it’s a challenge to choose. By then, you’ll probably be maxed out on sugar and desperately in need of a salty treat, so carry on down the street until you reach the boutique clothing shop, H beauty & Youth, beneath which you’ll find Pizza Slice 2 (3-14-17 Minamiaoyama. www.pizzaslice.co). Encased in basketball court fencing, this New Yorkstyle diner lays on huge trays of freshly baked pizza—order a slice of meatball with caramelized onion and a side of their butter garlic knot, you won’t be disappointed. Walk it off at the boutique Japanese clothing stores that line the rest of the street, like L’Echoppe (3-17-3 Minamiaoyama. www.lechoppe. jp) and Super Dot Market (3-17-2 Minamiaoyama. www. tomorrowland.co.jp/superdotmarket).

Kitaaoyama Across the street from Minamiaoyama, Kita offers a slightly quieter, more peaceful vibe. On the corner of the street, the historic Sanyodo Book Store (3-5-22 Kitaaoyama) has been around since 1891. Here, you’ll find everything from vintage Japanese books (including plenty on local folklore) to a gallery showcasing modern Japanese art—even if you’re not buying anything, you’ll be amazed by the well-kept collections of old and hard to find prints. Located just behind Omotesando station, Zenko-ji Temple (3-5-17 Kitaaoyama) stands defiant amid the bustling city and makes a perfect spot to rest—head there in sakura blossom season to see the area in bloom. Other historical sites include the commemorative monument to Takano Choei (3-5-17 Kitaaoyama), a Japanese scholar and

NEW-TravelFeature-BK#759-29MAR2019.indd 14

medical pioneer who was killed here in 1850 after escaping incarceration for his criticism of the Shogunate (military government), and Akiba Shrine (3-5-26 Kitaaoyama). Art lovers can admire the work of local artists at NOSE Art Garage (3-521 Kitaaoyama. www.nose-artgarage.tokyo) and Art Breeze Omotesando (3-5-9 Kitaaoyama).

Cat Street A narrow alleyway off of the flamboyant Omotesando Boulevard, Cat Street has a romantic vibe thanks to its rustic brick walkways. You’ll be surprised at how many eateries, cool cafes, thrift stores and high-end clothing brands hide in the nooks and crannies on this small street. Do not miss the hole-in-the-wall Luke’s Lobster (6-7-1 Jingumae. lukeslobster.jp), where buttery rolls are stuffed generously with fat chunks of lobster, or if you’re craving a southern US feast of juicy smoked ribs, barbecue pulled pork, cornbread and creamy grits, head straight to the industrial-style Smokehouse by T.Y Harbor Brewery (5-1713 Jingumae. www.tysons.jp/smokehouse). At The Roastery by Nozy Coffee (5-17-13 Jingumae. www.nozycoffee.jp), caffeine enthusiasts can enjoy single origin beans roasted in-house from the super-concise menu of espresso, latte and Americano—all served in a sophisticated tall Champagne glass, before hitting up contemporary art exhibitions at The Mass (5-11-1 Jingumae. themass.jp). Shoppers can sift through vintage thrift shops for hard-to-find (and crazy-expensive) items—try Flamingo (4−26-28 Jingumae) for women’s fashion and Ragtag (6-14-2 Jingumae. www.ragtag.jp) and Pigsty (5−25−1 Jingumae. www.pigsty1999.com) for men—or shop the latest sports gear at Patagonia (6-16-8 1 Jingumae. bit.ly/2tZAvV7) and Burton (5-17-4 Jingumae. www.burton.com).

Jingumae The main draw to this street is the small Japanese confectionary shop Mizuho (6-8-7 Jingumae), known for its signature soft mochi filled with sweet red bean paste, made fresh daily at the counter—get there fast, as they close as soon as they’re sold out, which is usually early. Close by is Gomaya Kuki

Pizza Slice 2

(4-26-22 Jingumae. gomayakuki.jp), where smooth sesame paste and sesame oil are churned together to make their amazing rich triple sesame white and black ice cream. Fashionista bookworms should hop into the sleek, three story bookstore Bookmarc (4-26-14 Jingumae. www.marcjacobs.jp/ bookmarc) by Marc Jacobs, where a mix of lifestyle and photography books is joined by music, locally made clothes and an underground art gallery.

Omotesando Boulevard Running as the big Main Street across the neighborhood and reminiscent of New York’s Fifth Avenue, this is truly the hi-so hub of Harajuku. Here, you can expect all the mainstream, highend fashion brands, like Dior, Chanel and Louis Vuitton.

Essentials Where to Stay The 15-room Trunk Hotel (from B9,300/ night, trunk-hotel.com) is located right in Shibuya’s nightlife and food hub of Cat Street. Inside, the industrial-style space blends extreme raw concrete walls, calming grey tones and dark-wood furniture. For a chic yet affordable option, Shibuya Stream Excel Hotel (from B6,500 on booking.com) comes with parquet carpeting and modern-retro furniture in earthy tones. Getting There Direct flights between Bangkok and Tokyo cost around B8,000 return with low-cost airline NokScoot (www.nokscoot.com), not including airline fees, luggage or food. Currency 1 JPY = 0.28 THB

3/22/19 5:18 PM

travel | news

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019

PHUKET

12 The Cocotte team

brings a meaty grill to Patong

Check out Samui’s sleek and secluded new beachside resort

PHUKET

KANCHANABURI

13 This restaurant

14 This colorful boutique

While the majority of Phuket’s Turkish restaurants, such as Zula, are concentrated around Patong, Kataturk (www.fb.com/KataChalong) brings the cuisine further south to Chalong Bay. Dangling ferns, wood accents and upholstered sofas add a modern vibe to the moody, dimly lit eatery, wherein hearty meat skewers like izgara sis (marinated minced lamb and beef with rice and salad, B220) and beyti kebab (yogurt-marinated beef or lamb wrapped in flatbread, served with buttered rice, B300) are served alongside pide (Turkish flatbread “pizza,” B120-230), indulgently sweet baklava (B150/ three pieces) and fresh yogurt with fruit (B90).

It’s easy to be transported by the exotic setting of Frida Friday Boutique Hotel (www. fb.com/fridafridayboutiquehotel) with its lush green surrounds, mountain views and maze of archways. Awash in chalky-blue paint, the property takes its inspiration from Frida Kahlo’s Blue House in Mexico City, though the Mediterranean-style architecture also calls to mind Morocco’s blue city of Chefchaouen. Complete the fantasy by staying in one of the all-white 34-sq-meter rooms (from B2,250/ night) with their chic, minimal furnishings.

brings Turkish food to the south of the island

KANCHANABURI

Avani Samui (www.avanihotels.com/en/samui) recently unveiled an upscale escape in Samui’s Phang Ka Bay area. Sleek, light gray interiors with vibrant splashes of blue feature in both the spacious 42-sq-meter deluxe rooms with private balconies (from B5,100/ night) and the 68- to 227-sq-meter pool villas (from B10,100/night). To make the most of your stay, upgrade to one of the beachfront villas surrounded by tropical trees, featuring sun terraces, private courtyards and direct access to the beach (B16,100-B25,100). Other facilities include a beachside restaurant, a cafe and a creative cocktail truck next to the pool.

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Patong’s Mojo Grill Bar (www.mojo-patong. com) is all about juicy, grilled-to-perfection beef. The eclectic mix of colorful neon-lit signs, fake palm trees and vintage frames is very reminiscent of Bangkok’s Lola by Cocotte, which can be explained by the fact that this place is run by the Cocotte team, under head chef Jeriko Van Der Wolf. The menu also bears close resemblance, from the signature Australian Black Angus tomahawk (from B2,890/half a kilo) to the sophisticated Angus beef tartare (B540) topped with an egg yolk, as well as burgers, pizzas, pasta dishes and an impressive wine list (from B190/ glass). End your meal on a sweet note with the rich chocolate mousse with candied orange and pistachio (B260), or a decadent slice of warm apple compote with chunky crumble, vanilla ice-cream and caramel sauce (B260).

hotel channels Frida Kahlo’s Blue House

3/21/19 4:46 PM

food & drink | news

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 29 , 2019

HOT OFF THE PASS

Notes from the Bangkok food scene

Check out Top Tables 2019 for Bangkok’s 100 best restaurants

PIE FACE Throughout March, The Drunken Leprechaun is holding a special pie promotion in honor of British Pie Week. From classic cottage pie to cheese and spinach, steak and cheese to chicken green curry, all are priced at B249.

SCORE

BK Magazine’s Top Tables 2019 is out. Every year, we get a panel of 30 serious foodies to vote on Bangkok’s 100 best restaurants. We don’t allow any interference from sponsors and over 90 percent of the panel are permanently based in Bangkok, making Top Tables the most authoritative guide to the Bangkok restaurant scene. Congratulations to the team at Suhring for their third consecutive win, but there are plenty of changes up top too. Pick up your free copy of Top Tables 2019 with this copy of BK Magazine, or visit bktoptables.com to read the full Official Selection and other breaking news.

Gaa

BAKING HOT

PENNY PINCHER

SEVENTH HEAVEN

16 Landhaus to celebrate its first anniversary

17 You can now afford to eat David Thompson’s food every day

18 Thonglor’s gin specialist is exploring new territory

Landhaus Bakery, Ari’s German/Austrian bakery, is now gearing up to celebrate its first birthday. The brunch stronghold is known for its next-level bread and pastries—the sourdough won our blind taste test back in July. Head there on Mar 30-31 (midday-8pm), to join in the festivities, when they’ll be holding a party in their beautiful, tucked-away tropical garden, just 10 minutes’ walk from BTS Ari. Expect a flea market featuring hugely discounted defect and display clothing from designers like Aprilpoolday and J Vineyard, jewelry, kitchenware, second-hand clothes and, of course, plenty of baked goods. 18 Phahon Yothin Soi 5, 086-889-9210

After their shock exit from Nahm (Top Table no.12) in 2018, founder David Thompson and head chef Prin Polsuk are back. Humble khao rad gaeng (curry and rice) is elevated to exciting new heights in Someday Everyday’s rotating 20-dish menu with sub-B100 prices—they even offer free pandan-infused drinking water. We couldn’t get enough of the fall-off-the-bone pork rib soup with sour mandan leaves (B100) or the black sticky rice with young coconut and longan (B50). 52, 60 Charoenkrung Rd.

After almost two years of serving us everything-gin, Just A Drink (Maybe) has launched a fresh menu— and this time, they’re exploring new territory. The 14 new concoctions take inspiration from the Guardians of the Galaxy movie soundtracks, like Ain’t No Mountain High (B360), a mix of Thai black tea, ginger syrup, caramel syrup, orange juice with a vodka base. Gin lovers, fear not—their specialty still features in the likes of Brandy, You’re a Fine Girl (B390), a refreshing gin and tonic with an unexpected twist of hazelnut liqueur. And, of course, their 70-strong gin collection still flanks the bar. 44/3 Thonglor Soi 1, 02-023-7285

MONEY BLUES Aspiring Mariahs and Sinatras head to 72 Courtyard, because Savoy karaoke bar is running an afterwork promo, with 50 percent off minimum spends on rooms for 15 (usually B1,500) to 25 (usually B2,500) people. Head there Mon-Fri, 7-9pm to get bluesy on the cheap.

MEAT-FREE MENSHO Vegans rejoice! Mensho Tokyo has finally rolled out its much anticipated vegan tantanmen (B350), made with Japanese soy cream, coconut milk and a wealth of nuts, beans and Thai veggies. Oishii!

YOU SAID WHAT?

The news in online foodie posts

“From 4 burgers to 100 burgers a day and “same exacting consistency?” I doubt it unless there are more than 24 hours in a day.” - FB USER PAUL

“Bye bye hangovers!” - FB USER EYE SURIYANON ON BANGKOK’S NATURAL WINE BARS.

“They taste like edible Tiger Balm” - TANYA HILL ON LAY’S ICY LEMON AND MELON BINGSU FLAVOR “COOLING” CHIPS.

MASA ON HOMEBURG’S NEW PROJECT.

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3/22/19 5:23 PM

ADVERTORIAL

EVENTS

K VILLAGE IN

2019

K Village Farmers’ Market Every second weekend of the month

K Village Farmers’ Market

A one-stop destination if you are looking to shop for chemical-free vegetables, organic produce, fresh eggs, baked foods or support local farmers and sustainable fisheries. Have a pleasant stroll amid live music while your children enjoy pony rides and arts and crafts workshops. Do not forget to bring along your reusable bags and tumblers. Event Details When: Every 2nd weekend of the month Time: Sat-Sun at 9am-6pm Where: K Village, Sukhumvit 26

K Village Sukhumvit Soi 26

Call 02-258-9919 |    kvillagebkk

Urban Eatery A weekend market with 130 popup stalls featuring fashion items, handmade accessories, food products, home décor items, handicrafts, street food, craft beers and live performances. Event Details When: Mar-Apr, June, Aug-Sep, Oct-Nov 2019 Time: Fri 4-9pm, Sat-Sun 10am-9pm Where: K Village, Sukhumvit 26

K Village Street Market

Urban Eatery

K Village Street Market Chill atmosphere shopping for cool products A market of hip clothing, accessories, gadgets, crafts and street food. A good place to catch up with friends. Event Details When: 16-18 Aug 2019 Time: Fri-Sun at 11am-9pm Where: K Village, Sukhumvit 26

Songkran Splash Ready for a season of fun activities for the children Celebrate Songkran in an enclosed environment with an inflatable bouncing castle and water fight for the whole family young and old. Event Details When: 13-15 Apr 2019 Time: Sat-Mon at 10am-6pm Where: K Village, Sukhumvit 26

Songkran Splash

Easter Day 2019 Easter Rainbow Land Bring your own basket for the egg hunt and enjoy the mascot bunny, Easter story, games, fancy face painting & egg painting, free cotton candy. Event Details When: 21 Apr 2019 Time: Sun at 10am-6pm Where: K Village, Sukhumvit 26

K Village Christmas Market 2019 Dress up and join us on Halloween Mainly a children’s event with face painting, games, a costume contest and haunted tent. It’s a very popular annual event for the whole family. Event Details When: 31 Oct 2019 Time: Thu at 4-10pm Where: K Village, Sukhumvit 26

The annual 5-day market during Bangkok’s cool period. With over 150 stalls for food, drinks, goods and gifts. Our popular games attract adults and children from late afternoon till late in the evening. Event Details When: 21-25 Dec 2019 Where: K Village, Sukhumvit 26

dining reviews

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019

GUIDES Reach affluent urbanites through trusted publications with a six-month to one-year shelf-life. La Lupita

La Lupita HH Mexican. 2/F, Revolucion, 50 Sathorn Soi 10, 02-235-4822. Open daily 6:30pm-midnight. BB-BBB

La Lupita made waves in Sathorn in October, 2018 as the neighborhood’s only “real-deal” Mexican restaurant. That means a lot of the Tex-Mex classics you think are Mexican, namely burritos and hard-shell tacos, are proudly rejected by the chefs in favor of dishes like soft Venezuelan aperas (corn buns filled with meat or veg, B220) and taco de suadero (flank steak confit on a house-made tortilla shell, B190). The ambiance, too, flaunts the vibrant sides of Mexican culture through bright pink and yellow walls dotted with wooden crosses and a colorful hand-painted mural featuring Latin-inspired art. Tables are adorned with fun touches like skulls, bandana napkins, candles and cacti. Mix that with the sizzling sounds of the open kitchen and the Latin dance music from downstairs bar Revolucion and you have a decent after-work vibe. It’s just a shame that La Lupita is wildly inconsistent where it matters: food. When done right, dishes like the creamy guacamole (B260) and pulpo chingon (grilled octopus drizzled with a light chili sauce, B410)

Hummus Boutique HHHH Mediterranean/vegetarian. 999 Sukhumvit Rd., 092-819-8131. Open Tue-Sun 11am10:30pm. B-BB

You might have heard praise floating around for this hole-in-the-wall Turkish spot that has managed to become Thonglor’s go-to for hummus. The attentive, caring service, bolstered by smiling chefs who walk around chatting to the customers, says a lot about the value they put into the place they run. Verification comes in the form of pillowy, soft fresh-baked pita breads, creamy hummus and crispy balls of falafel. Entering the small Turkish-inspired space, the atmosphere is cozy and casual, almost like you’re dining at home. The exotic tiled walls contrast with plain wooden floors and wood-heavy decor beneath dimmed lighting. From the open kitchen at the back come sounds of bread kneading and hummus blending, which compete with the old-school hip-hop coming from the TV and sound of tables chatting. Hummus here is kept simple and just lightly seasoned, allowing the flavor of the various toppings to shine through— many of which offer unique Western plays on

Ratings H Forget it HH Only if you’re in the neighborhood HHH A pleasant dining experience HHHH Not to be missed HHHHH Flawless BK pays for its meal and does not call ahead or sit with the chef.

DiningReview-BK#759-29MAR2019.indd 18

can inspire repeat visits. Others can be so bad it’s surprising. The ceviche acapulco (marinated fish with tomato and avocado, B220) is meant to be fresh, balanced and slightly tangy, but comes out sour enough to burn your tongue. Same with the aguachile de camaron (raw shrimp in a lemon, coriander and chili mixture, B340), which tastes like shrimp in a bowl of acid water. Not everyone likes the rich chocolate flavors of a mole sauce, but the version in La Lupita’s mole recalentado (B310) is decent. Dump all the sauce you want on top, though, it won’t save the bone-dry shredded chicken in the accompanying enchiladas. Even the basic chilaquiles (corn chips, beans, cheese, B150) miss the mark. Some refuge is found in the tacos (B300/four pieces on Wednesday’s taco night, B910 for a two-person platter), so long as you choose wisely. Steer clear of the overly fishy shrimp and fish. Stick to the classics like al pastor (pork and pineapple) and beef. You can booze your way to a good time here, though. There’s a heady list of tequilas and mezcals, a nicely sour and salty margarita (B256), and pretty much any drink you want from the bar downstairs. But there’s already a bar downstairs called Revolucion if you only want drinks. Food is La Lupita’s whole purpose, and it sadly fumbles the ball.

Middle Eastern classics. For a prime example, order the Lucid Dream (B280/B340 a set), an ultra-creamy combo of avocado, boiled eggs and spinach atop a smooth ring of hummus, topped with a crunchy sprinkle of toasted almond slices, or the Funky Champignons (B220/B280 a set), which sees hummus topped with sauteed spinach, caramelized onions, garlic confit and mushrooms for a surprisingly mellow taste. An explosive bomb of flavor, the falafel Greek salad (B280) is made up of tangy Kalamata olives, fat cubes of feta cheese and crispy falafel balls on a pile of fresh leaves—though, if we have to pick holes, the dressing is a tad too salty for our liking. A shot of Turkish coffee or a refreshing mint tea with a hint of cinnamon makes the perfect finisher, served in beautiful authentic Turkish coffee cups. Pair it with a bowl of malabi (a goat milk pudding sweetened with rose syrup, topped with coconut flakes and roasted almonds, B60). Without being too effusive, this Turkish joint knows exactly what it’s doing and does it well. With the delicious food and welcoming service, it’s almost impossible to not become a regular customer. Just make sure you head there before noon to snatch the last plate of fried vegan mozzarella sticks—they’re so good that they often sell out by early afternoon!

Price guide Under B500 B500-1,000 B1,000-2,000 B2,000-3,000 BBBBB Over B3,000 Price per person, including one drink, appetizer, main course, dessert, charges and tax.

B BB BBB BBBB

Symbols Reservations recommended Parking Dress requirements Live music

H F E G

To be featured in our upcoming 2019 guides, contact us at advertising@asia-city.co.th, 02-624-9696

3/22/19 5:38 PM

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019

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3/21/19 12:49 PM

food & drink | open doors

19 Olta brings modern British cuisine to buzzing Suan Phlu The buzz: The former chef at Phuket’s Bampot Kitchen, Jamie Wakeford, brings a “modern British” twist to Suan Phlu. The Scottish chef trained at Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck and Gordon Ramsey’s Maze in the UK, and this is reflected in a menu that’s big on local produce and reinterpretations of classic British recipes. The vibe: Olta shoots for the sweet spot between casual afterwork meetups and specialoccasion dining through teal banquettes, moody down-lighting, walls popping with black-and-white contemporary art and a soundtrack permanently tuned into mid-tempo hip-hop. Both the open kitchen and the gleaming, gold bar are hives of activity. Get away from it all with the private booths upstairs that allow for sly people-watching. The food: Bar snacks like the Scotch egg (pork belly sausage, quail egg and Piccalilli puree, B100) and Thai wagyu tartare sandwich (served on brioche with salted egg yolk, B150) hint at humble origins, but regular, run-of-the-mill pub grub this ain’t. Large plates head in more multicultural directions, like the creamy, herb-packed cauliflower risotto (B350), in which the vegetable turns up in three different ways for amazing texture—we

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recommend not sharing. Big eaters are rewarded in dishes like the Thai sole (B650), a massive hunk of fish topped with baby shrimp, briny capers and semi-dried grapes, and the dry-aged duck breast (B600) with pistachios and crisp-burnt brussels sprouts. Olta’s take on banoffee pie is ever so light thanks to the intriguing inclusion of tofu cream. If you like the sound of any of that, be quick—according to Wakeford, the menu is unlikely to stand still too long. The drinks: The cocktail list revels in fresh ingredients. The OG Tea (B320), a mix of gin, Earl Grey tea, citrus and tonic, makes an easygoing starter. Don’t let the Suan Phlu Mule’s (vodka, honey, ginger, apricot and bitters, B350) sweetness fool you, as this drink will sneak up on you. Wine by the glass starts at sub-B200 prices (bottles from under B1,000). Why we’d go back: With its quality, approachable take on British soul food and relatively wallet-friendly prices, Olta fills a big void in Suan Phlu. There are plans to open for lunch as well as serve weekend brunch out on the front terrace. We predict long, leisurely days here. 101/11 Suanphlu Rd., 094-6562159. Open daily 6pm-midnight Megan Leon and Carl Dixon

3/22/19 6:17 PM

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019

Bun Meat & Cheese by Homeburg

NEW AND NOTED

20 Viral burger chef launches Thonglor project

21 Sukhumvit Soi 53 now has an awesome sake specialist

22 Nanglinchee’s nutritious new all-day breakfast spot

Homeburg mastermind Taiki Tsubota has opened a new outlet for his infamous burgers, titled Bun Meat & Cheese by Homeburg (1/F, 72 Courtyard, Sukhumvit Soi 55 [Thonglor]). Taiki broke the internet back in 2018 with news of a 1,000-strong waitlist and an average of only four burger servings per day at his “pay what you feel” pop-up in On Nut’s Hubba co-working space. The sixmonth pop-up at 72 Courtyard serves 100 burgers a day priced at B320, plus B20-30 for additional toppings like pickled jalapenos. While the ingredients differ, the new outlet employs the same techniques that shot Homeburg to viral fame.

Say hello to Yoshi Bar (953 Community Mall, 124 Sukhumvit Soi 53), a new sake-fueled izakaya. Though concrete flooring, dimmed lighting and walls covered in doodles indicate a laid-back vibe, the menu will have you reminiscing on your school days with its textbook-like diagrams charting the four key types of sake and their characteristics. Prices run from B200 for Bijofu Tokubetsu Hortioz (Kouchi) to B590 for Yamabuki Gold (Akita), or you can get a flight of three (60ml each) for B660. To eat, try their five-piece omakase oden (Japanese hot pot, B200).

Market Place Nanglinchee has welcomed The Gardennia (1/F, Nanglinchee Soi 3), a healthy eatery that’s here to boost your immune system with its organic, probiotic-rich menu. First turn to the drinks, where you’ll find a full page dedicated to their homemade kombucha (from B125), a fermented tea-based drink that’s said to improve digestion and increase metabolism, energy and immune system health. Food spans breakfast staples—eggs Benedict (B190); smoked salmon scrambled eggs (B220)—as well as rice and pasta dishes (from B159), sandwiches (from B149 for vegan mushroom and tempeh), soups (B150) and an extensive, superfood-rich salad list—try the tuna and quinoa (B220).

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TABLE TALK

ARROZ 112 Sukhumvit 53, 02 258 7696. Open daily Sun-Thu 11:30am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11:30am-11pm. BTS Thong Lo A delightful experience about Spanish cuisine in Bangkok. The menu and food concept goes from all sorts of authentic-tasting paella and different rice dishes to different kinds of tapas and a fine selection of all well known Spanish wines.

Exclusively for Citi credit card members Get 10% discount on food only Today – 31 Aug 19

3/22/19 6:17 PM

Honest Mistake

McManus Brothers Oyster Bar

NEW AND NOTED

TABLE TALK

Taberna Jamon Jamon 9/1 Sukhumvit Soi 20, 02-663-4466. Open daily 11am-10pm. BTS Asok For the most authentic Spanish dining experience in Thailand, Taberna Jamon Jamon is home to all the delights of Spanish cuisine and culture. The menu expresses the diversity and creativity of Spanish cuisine offering the finest selection of food and wine.

Exclusively for Citi credit card members Get 10% discount on food only Today – 31 Aug 19

NEW-OpenDoor-BK#759-29MAR2019_4.indd 22

23 Make like a Chinese gangster at this new bar

24 A pushcart serving 25 A healthy acai and oysters and Prosecco poke bowl specialist for the people comes to Asoke

On entering Honest Mistake (488 Phahonyothin Rd., 062-490-5126), you’ll feel like you’ve descended into an illicit Shanghai mafia den. A barred sales counter with green bankers lamps, antique abaci and security TVs creates a pawn shop-front for the 1940s-style gangster bar within—think faux gambling tables, dark woods, neon red Chinese signs and moody lighting. The bar itself exudes more of a ‘20s speakeasy feel with its fringed lampshades and plush velvet stools. It’s here you’ll find bartenders working their magic on creations like The Dealer (B360) a mix of dark rum, raisin, Tio Pepe, Cherry Heering and black olive.

Fresh out of Blighty, McManus Brothers Oyster Bar (G/F, 72 Sukhumvit Soi 55 [Thonglor], 063-7146988) has arrived at 72 Courtyard. After 10 years pedaling prestigious London markets like Borough and Covent Garden, the oyster and Prosecco specialists are now bringing their Victorian-style pushcart to Bangkok. Co-founder Darren McManus explains, “Oysters used to be food for the poor. We would like to bring the accessibility back.” Maldon Rock (U.K.) and Kumamoto (Japan) oysters are available for B139/piece to B1,199/dozen, while Prosecco is B270/glass or B1,600/bottle.

One of upper-Asoke’s new malls has brought with it a pink-tinged superfood specialist. Bowlnus’ (1/F, 68 Soi Sukhumvit Soi 21, 064-0928593) mission is to create healthy food that actually tastes good, which translates into poke bowls like the Salmon Lava Burst (small B189/ large B249), acai bowls like the Autumn Bowl (B159/B189) with peanut butter, granola, almond, coconut flakes, cacao and banana, and salads like chicken breast with balsamic (B159). You can also build your own bowl, starting with a Japanese rice or quinoa base (B40), sauce (B30) and a range of toppings from edamame (B20) to grilled salmon (B89).

3/22/19 6:17 PM

food & drink | taste test

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019

Who makes Bangkok’s best...fast food fries? Everyone loves the occasional—or daily, we’re not judging—bag of fries. While not everyone agrees on what makes a good fry (apparently there are some limp-lovers in our midst), general consensus elects that they should have a fluffy interior and a golden, slightly crisp shell. We ordered from some of Bangkok’s top fast food joints to find the best pouch of salty goodness. By BK Staff

McDonald’s

Make sure you go to town on this bag quick—there’s a window of about five minutes before the piping hot, pleasingly salty and thin fast food snack transforms into a stale ghost of its former self. Verdict: Get it while it’s hot. Price: B79 www.mcdonalds.co.th

Burger King

Runner

The fluffy interior of up! this not-too-salty fry is wrapped in a semicrispy coat that provides a real potato quality to your grab-and-go craving. Verdict: Turning (potato) heads. Price: B105 www.burgerking.co.th

Carl’s Jr.

Winner! The smell was enough to capture us as it filled the room, and the golden, buttery potato interior won over our taste buds in a heartbeat. Between the texture of the skin on this wedge-like potato fry and the real deal flavor, this was a hands-down winner. Verdict: Stick of glory. Price: B89 carlsjr.co.th

Mos Burger

KFC

There’s not a whole lot inside its wrinkly potato case, so don’t let the evenly golden exterior fool you. It’s a withered old fry with a flavorless personality. Verdict: No finger-lickin’ here. Price: B45 www.kfc.co.th

Needs

Being the thickest cut of Work all couldn’t hide the texture of boiled potatoes and the strong fishy taste like you’re eating a soggy pile of fish and chips. Verdict: Something’s fishy. Price: B56 Mos-th.com

* All fries were tasted within 15 mins of ordering.

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3/22/19 6:17 PM

food | beef lovers

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019

What’s a Wagyu Sando? Japan’s luxury lunch craze hits Bangkok. By Kankanok Wichiantanon Sumi Tei Yakiniku

Bambino

KRBB

hether it’s an oozing grilled cheese, a meaty pulled pork sub or a decadent BLT, the humble sandwich has potential to make an incredible meal. Now, a meaty new craze has hit Bangkok and it’s elevating the simple lunch staple to new heights. Say hello to the “wagyu sando,” an extravagant marriage of high and low hailing from the very best steakhouses in Japan. Over the past year, the wagyu sando has swept the States, too, where bank accounts have been choked by price tags as high as US$180 (roughly B5,700) at New York’s dedicated restaurant for everything-wagyu, Don Wagyu. Outrageous? Yes, but people are buying it. Here’s why. Imagine a juicy hunk of well-marbled beef that’s been breaded and fried till its surface has turned crisp and golden. Now, place that inside two crustless slices of fluffy white bread for a bite that combines soft, crunchy and succulent all in one. The pampering care that goes into raising the cattle is instrumental in creating an intense marbling effect that makes for amazingly soft and juicy meat. A schmear of sauce adds the final flourish to this indulgent treat. Though it’s no newcomer to foodie Instagram feeds, the trend has just recently started to scratch Bangkok’s gastronomy surface, with a few restaurants featuring the sandwich on their menus, each offering a twist of their own. First on the scene was butcher-slash-restaurant KRBB (Habito, Sukhumvit Soi 77 [On Nut], 086-3864915), whose Japanophile owner Ittichai “Big” Benjathanasombat decided to add the wagyu sando to his menu after having spent B6,000 on one in Tokyo. Here, the prices are more palatable and customers can choose from a variety of meats from across Thailand and Japan. Big recommends the Thai Himawari Gyu Striploin (B320/100g), which has a similar fragrance to Japanese wagyu but a texture more akin to Angus. The meat is placed between homemade bread, with a secret sauce—all he would tell us is that it’s not tomato-based. The folks at Bambino (1045/4 Soi Nai Loet, 097028-1493) watched as the craze took the social media world by storm and were immediately drawn to it.

On seeing the wagyu sando for the first time (made with beef from the meat master Kentaro Nakahara of Tokyo’s next-level yakiniku restaurant Sumibiyakiniku Nakahara), Bambino’s co-owner Bye Atcha Wongchindawest tells us, “I was so obsessed that I took a flight to Japan to eat it!” Now they, too, are bringing the craze to Bangkok. The best part? They want to ensure that it’s (relatively) affordable, which means their prices start at B550. Here, they make use of an Australian wagyu striploin with a perfect balance of meat and fat. “It’s so soft, you can easily bite into it with your teeth,” Bye tells us. The meat gets a coat of panko bread crumbs before taking a short journey into a sizzling tub of hot oil. As for the bread, they to go for a milk-butter variety with a light and airy texture, toasted until crisp and paired with a thick spread of house-made tomato jam. In the near future, they’re planning on adding premium Iberican pork sandos to the menu too, to accommodate those who don’t eat beef. Over at Sumi Tei Yakiniku (323/3 Thonglor Soi 13, 091-770-7747), where they’re known for meltin-your-mouth A5-grade wagyu, it took them almost six months to perfect their own version of the wagyu sando. Using a beautifully marbled sirloin cut, rather than the meatier tenderloin favored by many other places, they claim their wagyu sando has a more tender texture and buttery taste. The Japanese milk bread they use is neither too thick nor too thin, lightly toasted on the outside while remaining soft and pillowy within, where it holds an exacting spread of their special sauce that tastes a little more tangy with saltier note than sweet tonkatsu sauce. The sandwich is priced at B2,180, though you’ll need to head there quick as it’s only part of a temporary menu that is soon to change. Yes, it might make a pricy lunch, but thanks to these restaurants we no longer have to take a flight to Japan to sample the meaty craze. Whether the trend will catch on is yet to be determined, but it’s certainly worth a payday splurge—even if that means eating street food for the rest of the month.

SEASON’S GREETINGS

Food You’ve Gotta Eat this Summer Mayong Chit If you’ve noticed something that looks like a cross between a yellow plum and a teeny-tiny mango filling up streetside carts, that’s mayong chit. High in fiber and vitamin C, the slightly sour edible skin gives way to sweet flesh within. You’ll have to be quick as the season only lasts from February through April each year. Look for egg-sized fruits with a deep yellow-orange flavor to make the hefty B200-400/kg price tag worth it.

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Khao Chae This classic seasonal dish sees rice served in iced jasmine-scented water and is usually accompanied by sides of luk kapi (deepfried shrimp paste balls), hom tord (deep-fried shallots), prik yuak yud sai moo (green chili pepper stuffed with minced pork), chai pow pad khai (stir-fried dry turnip with egg) and neua wan (shredded sweet meat). Head to R.Haan, where they’re rolling out khao chae as part of their “Royal Summer” menu, or keep an eye on all the high-end hotels rolling out specials.

Pla Hang Tang Mo The combination of sweet, juicy watermelon paired with salty dried fish may sound outrageous, but it makes for perfect savory-sweet treat for summer. Chunks of watermelon are sprinkled with a mixture of dried-salted fish, crisp shallots and coconut sugar to create this refreshing snack that bursts with complexity. Try it now at R-Haan, Siam Tea Room, Eathai and Saneh Jaan.

3/22/19 6:19 PM

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019

Bringing together fantastic places to enjoy a night out. Experience Korea in the heart of Bangkok...

A Taste of Home in Bangkok The new Patissez cafe is Bangkok’s answer to all kinds of comfort food dreams What started as a humble, family-owned business in Canberra Australia has turned into something so much bigger. The famed Patissez cafe is now in Bangkok! Specializing in shakes, all kinds of comfort food, and waffles that come in different flavors and are freshly made using syrup that they mix together from scratch, eating at Patissez feels like spending evenings with friends around the dinner table—exactly as it should. Try their latest standout dishes, such as the smashed avocado on toasted sourdough with burrata cheese, or the delicious French toast, which is homemade and topped with fresh mango and saffron mango sauce.

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3/22/19 6:22 PM

drink | wine of the hour

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019

It’s Only Natural

ON THE BAR

Wet

Bangkok is finally on to natural wine bars—but we’ve still much to learn. By Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj

About Eatery

The Rose Natural Wine Bar

ver the past few years, the term “natural wine” has slowly crept its way into the vocab of oenophiles. Though it’s still nowhere near as ubiquitous in Bangkok as in Europe, where you can grab a 20 Euro (roughly B700) bottle from almost any hole-in-the-wall bar, natural wine may be about to get its big Bangkok break. With the opening of Gaggan’s hip new “low intervention” wine bar—he and his long-term sommelier, Vladimir Kojic, reject the term “natural”—ears are certainly starting to prick. We spoke to the experts to find out what the future has in store.

The Taste

Funky, weird and hard to understand—these are the preconceptions that have so many Bangkokians steering clear of natural wine. We’ve become so accustomed to mass-produced labels with their expertly tweaked tastes and neat profiles that the complexity of something less controlled has us befuddled. “The natural wine scene in Thailand hasn’t kicked off properly due to a lack of knowledge. There are still misperceptions of the character and taste of natural wines as fizzy, oxidized or vinegary. This tends to make consumers either dislike them or pretend to like them just to be trendy,” says Benjawan Wisootsat, managing director of Fin Wine, a pioneering importer of natural wine to Thailand for 15 years. She continues, “it is definitely growing, though—soon people will understand more about natural wines and how delicious they can be, then they won’t have to pretend to like it anymore.” For Milan Rukavina, who joins Kojic in running Wet from his own wine bar in Croatia, the beauty of low-intervention wines is their lack of consistency. “It’s wrong if you have a cool season one year and a warm season the next year and the wine tastes the same. That’s impossible,” says Milan. “If you always have the same wine then what’s the point? I want to feel the character, the expression of that season.”

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Via Maris

The Hype

The Tax

Let’s face it, it’s not just the natural wine scene that is struggling to grow, it’s the wine scene in general. Cocktails remain a big deal in Bangkok and are seen as something fun and casual, but why does everyone think that wine is reserved for luxury times only? “I don’t think there is a wine scene here at all,” says Elaine Sun, co-owner of Kangkao and Ku Bar. “For a few reasons. First, a lack of interest, as cocktails are still the ‘hottest’ thing right now in Bangkok. Second, a lack of understanding— from what I’ve observed, a lot of consumers still see wine as a luxury item that must always be paired with dinner. Third, so many people are intimidated by wine, even more so by natural wine—they have less knowledge about it, and are uncomfortable going to a wine bar, afraid of asking ‘stupid questions’,” she concludes.

Tax on alcohol in Thailand is crazy-high. Not only do you have to pay excise tax, you also have to pay custom duties, which tends to place wine at a luxury price point. “Natural wine starts at around 20 Euros a bottle in a Paris bistro; here it’s possibly double or higher,” says Kim Wachtveitl, managing director of Wine Garage, who for the last six years has focused on importing from generations-old family-owned wineries as well as newcomers from countries like Austria, Spain and Portugal.

Benjawan adds, “it was already difficult enough for us to be the first to bring white wines into the market where the majority of the consumers only drank reds and to be the first to bring in Austrian and German wines was also something challenging.” In a market so limited, can consumers be receptive to wines that push the boundaries?

Yet Wachtveitl sees hope yet: “The Bangkok natural wine scene is a work in progress, but like all things that we adopt here, it’s on a fast track to catch up with New York, London, Paris or Tokyo. The array will be tough to emulate, but I fully believe a natural wine lover can have some fun here.”

Sun also sees price as a barrier, “Wine is expensive, which can make consumers afraid of ordering a wine that will disappoint them.” Rose Natural Wine Bar’s partner Aukkarapoan Phanuwongkun agrees, “The alcohol scene is growing strong in Thailand but the tax structure allows cheaper, low-quality products to grow more than the high-quality ones.”

Essentials

Where to try natural wine in Bangkok About Eatery, G/F, Ocean Tower 2, Asoke Soi 3, 02-665-2772 Kangkao, 2/F, 469 Phra Sumen Rd., 02-067-6731 The Rose Natural Wine Bar, Sukhumvit Soi 38, 081-553-3585 Via Maris, Convent Rd., 02-236-5558 Wet, see right

The buzz: The new wine bar from Gaggan Anand’s long-term sommelier, Vladimir Kojic, is your ticket to an education on the wine world’s most exciting, passionate, inventive and just plain challenging creations. As “natural” wine bars make a hit around the world, this is downtown Bangkok’s boldest attempt yet to remove wine from stuffy restaurants and place it into the hands of the party crowd. The drinks: Reds, whites and stuff somewhere in between that’ve all been made with wild yeasts and spontaneous fermentation— just don’t call it “natural.”“We prefer low intervention,” says Kojic, meaning these fluids taste only of what they’ve taken from the soil. By-the-glass wines go from B360 for the light Atanasius label from Austria’s game-changing Gut Oggau winery, praised for pioneering biodynamic blends that don’t get hung up on grape varietals. You won’t find anything here without a similar back-story: Jacques Lassaigne Champagne (“Oh my god, the most creative people working in Champagne,” B760/glass); Sebastian Riffault Sancerre (“The only guy doing it his own way in the Loire Valley,” B520/glass). Yes, some of these wines can be funky (see Sebastian Riffault, above), but they can also be light, smooth, fragrant and even classic. Talking to the staff is a must if you’re going to get the most of your visit. The food: This is also secretly the curry house Gaggan never built. Head here on an empty stomach to enjoy the unctuously unpretentious chicken masala with beautiful long-grain Basmati rice at just B390 a portion. Other snacks like the XO noodles start at B190. Save room for the glorious mess of yogurt, potato and spices that is the “Seductively Indian” papdi chaat (B390). Some of the greatest hits from Gaggan restaurant’s past even make the grade, like his duo of sinfully meaty “Year of the Pig” pork cutlets (B420). The decor: Taking cues from newwave speakeasies, Wet hides behind a row of rickety toilet doors that could’ve come from the bathrooms at Chatuchak. Inside, low-slung, movable sofas from France’s Roche Bobois design house are like vibrant, high-society bean bags, while aging rafters criss-cross with newly installed glass walkways across two levels. If the vintage prints of glamour models look familiar, it’s because Wet is the work of Teens of Thailand/ Asia Today designer Gunn Lee. The music: Loud, fun and never boring. Early Marvin Gaye morphs into Talking Heads then Nena as the night gets going. Stuffy lounge music, this ain’t, which means the crowd is likely to be up and dancing—just be careful with the stemware. Oliver Irvine 68/9 Soi Lang Suan, Phloen Chit Rd., 02-117-2835. Open Mon-Sat 5pm-2am

3/22/19 6:24 PM

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019

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