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Four long years
BK MAGAZINE NO. 738 FRIDAY, MAY 18, 2018. www.bkmagazine.com
THE
GOURMET
PANTRY
Bangkok’s best produce straight to your door
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page 3 6 cover story
Deli Delivery
What We’ve Learned
4 upfront
6 escapes
New at Nahm
Nimman Guide 10 avenue
12 blends
Brands We Want
Suntory and Beyond
14 bites
16 BK Now
Hunt & Gather
Make Plans
Who's in charge? Managing Director & Publisher Andrew Hiransomboon Managing Editor Oliver Irvine Digital Director / Deputy Editor Carl Dixon Digital Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Digital Content Assistant Pakchira Bunphol Writers Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj, Dhipkawee Sriyananda Selley Junior Writer Kankanok Wichiantanon Art Director Vatanya Bongkotkarn Production Supervisor Komkrit Klinkaeo Graphic Designers Anunya Chobnitas, Wirankan Saiyasombut Photographer Poonsawat Suttama Video Designer Saranya Laowtrakul Videographer Nattapol Srisukh Junior Video Editor Pattanagorn Adirekkiat
Where to find us!
The Asia City Media Group
Advertising Director Wanida Akeapichai Sales Managers Tipkritta Chiraporncharas, Orajira Sukkasem Senior Sales Associates Tassanee Mahamad, Nattaya Bovornsettanon, Orakarn Laohakanjanasiri
Finance Manager Supaporn Bangmoung Assistant Finance Manager Anchalee Limkhamduang Senior Accountant Maneeya Kanthongdang Accountant Manita Bangmoung Admin Executive Yaovaluck Srisermsri Contributors Kathy MacLeod
Junior Marketing Executive Narabhutr Thaemsiri ASIA CITY STUDIO Managing Editor Dietrich Neu Associate Editor Sureepak Janyapat Senior Project Manager Chayanap Tongdadas Senior Developers Passzarkorn Youthasoontorn, Wasan Wangrach Project Coordinator Sirinart Panyasricharoen Assistant Art Director Ratchprapha Sunthornprasat Writer-Translator Tripop Leelasestaporn Junior Branded Content Writer Chakariya Cheewatara SOIMILK Editor Nathapong Suppavatee Senior Writer Rujiyatorn Choksiriwan Writer Theerada Moonsiri Brand Manager Onwara Sittirug Sales Associates Prawpraew Pairohg, Kornkanok Sriwaranant
Interns Sirada Nimcharoenchaikul, Megan Leon, Caria Bua-on, Vick Chalermlapraboon, Caria Chanyanuch, Valaiporn Chalermlapvoraboon Cover photo by Poonsawat Suttama
Asia City Media Group Chief Executive Officer Greg Duncan (gduncan@asiacity.net) Director Gretchen Worth (gworth@asia-city.co.th)
Bangkok Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. 9/F, Sathorn Nakorn Tower 100 North Sathorn Rd., Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Tel: 02-624-9696 Fax: 02-237-5656 Email: bkmagazine@asia-city.co.th
BK “Asia City Living” Magazine is edited by Andrew Hiransomboon and published 51 times a year, every Friday of each month by Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Copyright ©2016 Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. The titles “BK Magazine,” “BK ‘Asia City Living’ Magazine” and their associated logos or devices, and the content of BK “Asia City Living” Magazine are the property of Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited. Article reprints are available for B50 each. The magazine may not be distributed without the express written consent of Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Contact the Advertising Department for ad rates and specifications. All advertising must comply with the Publisher’s terms of business, copies of which are available upon request. Printed by Comform Co.,Ltd. 212 Moo 13 Krungthepkreetha Rd., Saphansoong, Bangkok 10250
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That the future of the BACC hangs in the balance Bangkok Governor Asawin Kwanmuang announced last week plans for the BMA to take over the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre’s operations from the non-profit BACC Foundation, much to the outrage of the local art community. While protest meetings, Twitter hashtag campaigns (#freebacc) and Change.org petitions gather pace, rumors continue to swirl that the city’s premier art center could yet be transformed into one big, boring co-working space. Silver lining: at least it’s not another mall? That the Killers are coming to Bangkok. Finally. A couple months after the rumors first broke the internet, concert organizer VijiCorp has confirmed that the Las Vegas four-piece fronted by Brandon Flowers will perform at Bangkok’s Thunder Dome on Sep 17, with tickets going on sale Jun 2 from Ticketmelon.com (B2,800-3,500). The band behind mid-’00s indie chant-along hits like “Mr. Brightside” and “Somebody Told Me” released their latest album, Wonderful Wonderful, in 2017. That Hong Kong’s cult yakitori restaurant is having a oneoff Bangkok popup Canadian chef Matt Abergel of Hong Kong’s Yardbird will take the reins at Siwilai City Club this May 31. Since opening in 2011, Yardbird’s “beak-to-tail” approach to charcoal-grilled chicken and Japanese-inspired cocktails to match have earned it plaudits from Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, among others. The Bangkok visit (611pm, B2,800/per person) comes in support of chef Abergel’s upcoming cookbook, Chicken and Charcoal, which publisher Phaidon is calling the first comprehensive English-language book about yakitori. That the first Bangkok LGBT+ Film Festival is set for July From Jul 3-8, Sala Daeng’s indie cinema Bangkok Screening Room hopes to bring together the LGBT+ community in a celebration of “diversity, creativity and strength.” The festival will showcase eight films (among them The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, BPM and Hard Paint), along with four talks on issues like marriage equality and equal opportunity, performances and an art exhibition. See bkksr.com. That Thai cacao is going global Two words stood out at the 11th Academy of Chocolate Awards 2018: “Chiang Mai.” For the first time ever, Thai cacao was recognized on the world stage in the awards’ “Bean to Bar” category. While the chocolatier, Lemuel, is actually Singaporean, the beans in the bronze prize-winning 70-percent dark chocolate hail from Kad Kakao farm in Chiang Mai, which will launch its own chocolate brand and cafe in Bangkok later this year.
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BK Magazine Friday, May 18, 2018
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upfront HOT OR NOT
BNK48 Hot: Elections
Not: Population
Thailand, rejoice! The election’s officially been set for 2018. Thai idol girl group BNK48 just announced on their official page that you’ll get to vote your favorite member within this year. You didn’t think we were talking about the general election, did you? According to Prawit Wongsuwan, 70 million Thais have no interest in that—amazing, considering the last official count put Thailand’s population at 68 million. www.ffb.com/SiamCenter
INTERVIEW
Hot: Croquant
Not: Cremeux
A long, long time ago, in a time called 2015, there was a dessert named the cremeux, and it swept through Bangkok cafes like wildfire. Now though, there’s a new dessert-fad. It too has a French adjective for a name; and it too has never been made, eaten or even heard-of in France. We’re talking of course about the croquant—Siam’s latest Japanese import worth queuing for. Robert Tiefenbach
Hot: Power banks
Not: Tangled cables
Next time you’re walking along the street, take a look up. What you’re looking at is not an ungodly tangle of communication wires. No. It’s a free goddamned power bank, courtesy of a new campaign from the NBTC, which is giving away thousands of the things to people who highlight Bangkok’s worst telecoms atrocities. www.kaneang-pier.com
Hot: Dining in Phuket
Not: Drinking in Phuket
We have it on the good authority of some guy we got chatting to on Patong’s Walking Street one night that Phuket’s getting a Michelin guide. He couldn’t remember when it comes out—or what day of the week it was—or what had happened to his shirt—but he reckons it’s definitely, definitely happening. And that Avicii was a jeeenyus.
Following the departure of David Thompson from Nahm, the Michelin-star restaurant has appointed chef Pim Techamuanvivit as its new figurehead. Bangkok-born Pim joins the hotel from San Francisco, where she founded the one-Michelin-star Kin Khao. Also a food writer, her Chez Pim food blog was called the world’s sixth top food blog by London’s Times newspaper. How much change can we expect to see at Nahm now you’ve taken over? Frankly, it’s not my job to set your expectations. But you know, a restaurant is not just tables and chairs, it’s an expression of the chef who runs it. You have a different chef at the helm now. It’s not going to be the same restaurant. At the same time, no one’s going to flip a restaurant with a legacy like Nahm’s into a burger joint. In my cooking I respect the legacy of Thai cuisine, and the way I run Nahm will respect the legacy of Nahm. The similarities and differences in Kin Khao and Nahm’s approach to cooking: I did not come to Bangkok to open a copy of Kin Khao. What would be the fun in that? Kin Khao is a boisterous bistro. It’s small, crowded, and probably louder than I’d like really. Nahm is a fine-dining restaurant. But at the heart of both restaurants is heritage Thai cooking with a focus on great ingredients. If you could only change one thing at Nahm, it would be: If I could only change one thing at Nahm, I wouldn’t have taken on the project.
How daunted are you by the task ahead? It’s a big legacy to step into. I’m not sure if daunted is the word I’d choose. I am well aware of the legacy of Nahm and of chef Thompson. But I wouldn’t have taken the job if I didn’t have a contribution of my own to add to this dialogue.
Your late-night Bangkok streetfood tip? It may not have started out as latenight street-food, but it sort of turned out to be. It’s the crab omelet at Jay Fai. I arrived for my table at 8pm, and we got our omelet at 10:30pm. It was well worth the wait.
Have you learned anything from David Thompson’s approach to Thai food? I don’t know chef Thompson well, and, unlike many Thai chefs working in Bangkok and elsewhere, I’ve not worked with him. I have great admiration for his dedication and his love of Thai cuisine.
You love the Bangkok restaurant scene right now because… There is so much energy in the restaurant scene right now. It’s super exciting to be back. So many cooks expressing their own personalities and points of view on Thai food. You can feel the pulse. It’s electric.
Your greatest ever meal out in Bangkok and why? “Ever” is a long time. I can tell you one of the loveliest meals I’ve had in Bangkok recently was at this little restaurant Klang Suan in Sukhumvit. The young chef was the only one in his kitchen. His wife ran the front of house. The chef and the cuisine came from Ranong, so do most of the produce they use. It’s the kind of cooking that’s so bright, honest, deliciously true to its roots.
You hate the Bangkok restaurant scene right now because... Hate is also a strong word. I’d say I dislike the trend toward too much sweetness in savory dishes. How often will you be in the kitchen here? As much as required to properly run a restaurant like Nahm. I do still run another Michelin-starred Thai restaurant in San Francisco... Between my chef de cuisine at Kin Khao, Meghan Clark, and my head chef at Nahm, Suraja “Jan” Ruangnukulkit, I have two sets of great hands who will hold up the operation when I’m not there. Oliver Irvine
THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID
by Kathy MacLeod (IG: @kathy_macleod)
BK Magazine Friday, May 18, 2018
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cover story
The Door-toDoor Deli Specialty delicatessens, bakeries and grocery stores are having a moment in Bangkok. Don't spend your weekend rushing from shop to shop, have them deliver to you. Here’s who to call and for what. By Megan Leon Cagette
Bread
FOOD Sourced Grocers
Delivery Range: Sukhumvit, Silom and Sathorn via FoodPanda Time: 1 hour Stock up on grains, spices, nut butters, kombucha teas and stevia-sweetened juices. Heady cheeses like comte, truffle gouda and 18-month-aged mimolette line the counter along with a whole bunch of cold cuts (grab a platter starting at B200). The Meat Lover (B450) is a generous serving of prosciutto di Parma, mortadella, salami Napoli and Milano salami.
Holey Bakery
Delivery Range: Sukhumvit, Silom and Sathorn via Foodpanda Time: 1 hour Head baker Porag Alam has flour especially milled to his requirements for chewycrusty baguettes and flaky croissants. The sourdough (B120) with its sour flavor and crisp crust is the real star, as is the multigrain bread (B200) packed with suflower,
Pastries
pumpkin, flax, sesame, anise, linseed and oats. Got a dinner party coming up? Order an entire New York cheesecake (B2,000).
El Mercado Delivery Range: Bangkok and suburbs via order@elmercadobangkok.com or 099-078-3444 Time: 1-2 days A large deli counter stocks cheese and charcuterie from Europe, while the cold storage room is packed with fresh imported seafood like fine de claire oysters, Mediterranean seabass and turbot. Choose from 24-month-aged jamon Iberico (B719/100g), truffle salami with parmesan (B390) and 10-month-aged prosciutto Emiliano (B157/100g). The array of cheeses is equally enticing: Saint Nectaire (B240/100g), Manchego Iberico (B169/100g), Brie de Maubert (B175/100g).
Cagette
Delivery Range: Bangkok, 02-249-1684 Cost: B80-B100; orders over B1000 Free Time: 1 day Above Soi Yen Akat’s new French bistro sits this deli where they serve a range of homemade dried meats, cheeses and baked goods. Stock up on house-cured coppa pork (B60/100g) and duck rillette (B180/100g), along with cheeses such as Buche de Chevre (B185/100g) and 18-month comte (B245/100g).
Vivin Maison
Delivery Range: Bangkok and suburbs via Foodpanda and Lineman Time: Within 1 hour Charcuterie (natural bacon, B300; dried duck breast, B320) and foie gras (B2,500 for 500 grams of whole Landes foie gras) form the backbone of this business, but you’ll also find caviar, cheese, condiments and spices. The new Vivin Apero Box starts at B245 and provides a lunch-sized portion of charcuterie and cheese.
El Mercado
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BK Magazine Friday, May 18, 2018
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Cheese
Butcher
Cold Cuts
Larder Items
Wine
Sloane’s
Delivery Range: Bangkok and suburbs via Lineman, Lalamove and Passion Delivery Time: 1-2 hours Chef-turned-butcher Joe Sloane is widely known for making ethical, local pork products. He’s also just opened at Viva Thonglor where you can find the entire range of meats and cheeses. Pork and apple sausages come at B58/100g, as do traditional Cumberlands. Don’t miss out on the Guanciale (B85/100g), an Italian cured pork jowl perfect for pasta sauces.
Accidental Butcher
Delivery Range: Bangkok via theaccidentalbutcher.com Time: 1-2 days Located down a quiet soi in Ekkamai, the Accidental Butcher sources top quality meats. Hefty prices are backed up by the quality of the meat. Try the best-selling Cape Grim Ribeye (B720/300g) naturally raised in Australia. The Victorian Lamb rack (B1,560) is good for about 8-9 chops. Keep checking their website for special offers.
Bei Otto
Quintessence
Delivery Range: Nationwide via cheesequintessence.com Time: 1 day An assortment of French cheeses, wine, cold cuts and jams. The seemingly never-ending cheese selection includes Tomme de Chevre (B183) and the mild and creamy Camembert Petit Normand (B318). Also pick up jams from Provence in flavors like fig and violet (B350).
Delivery Range: Bangkok via Foodpanda Time: 1 hour Get your fix of German breads and meats. Bei Otto offers a remarkable selection of sausages, sauerkraut and other homemade delicacies with little grace but with efficiency and authenticity that is unmatched. The generous Farmer’s meal platter (B380) includes German black pudding, liver pate, cured dried sausage, South Tyrol smoked pork belly and black forest ham, served with bread, butter and horseradish.
Amantee
Delivery Range: Sukhumvit, Silom and Sathorn via Lineman Time: 1-2 hours French bread craftsmen Jonathan Valdman and Benoit Fradette’s creations involve long fermentation time and feature organic flour products, range from beautiful baguettes (B85) to breads like the Influence inca (B300/kg) made with quinoa and amaranth. Bei Otto
5/14/18 9:33 PM
cover story Neighborhood Directory
BOOZE
Ari
La Casa Nostra
Delivery Range: Bangkok and Suburbs via Lineman Time: Within 24 hours A go-to supplier for a who’s who of the city’s best restaurants. They claim to add no more than B500 markup to each bottle, meaning you can cut your drink bill by up to a third. The labels come mostly from Italy and France. Enjoy a bottle of Billecart Salmon Brut Vintage Champagne 2007 at B3,250 and a delightful Brovia Barolo 2013 at B2,300.
LANDHAUS
About Eatery
Cagette
Delivery Range: Bangkok and suburbs via fin-wine.com Time: Same day for orders before 4pm; next day after 4pm Another wine merchant who specializes in boutique producers whose focus is on sustainable, organic and bio-dynamic production methods. Try the 2015 BASA Blanco DO B1,100) from Rueda, Spain and the 2012 Barbera d'Alba "Scarrone", V i e t t i ( B 2, 5 0 0 ) f ro m Piedmont, Italy.
BottleGrotto
Wine Garage
Delivery Range: Bangkok and suburbs via www.winegarage.asia Cost: B200 for orders under B3,000 (otherwise free) Time: 1 day Owners Kim Wachtveitl and Philippe TK offer a club for which they personally select six bottles per month for members. The focus at Wine Garage is on small-batch producers—and also affordability. Try a bottle of the IT Veneto NV Drusian Prosecco Superiore (B950) for a smooth drinking bubbly. Another good choice is the Yecla 2014 (B1,350), a bold red from Spain.
Sathorn Silom
Fin Wines
Delivery Range: Bangkok via Lineman Time: 1 day The menu of exclusively organic, biodynamic and sustainable producers has icons indicating each wine’s viniculture, aging process and whether it’s suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Slightly bitter on first taste, the Pithos Bianco 2015 orange wine (B1650) from Sicily wins us over with its full-bodied texture and complex, slightly savory notes.
Amantee
18 Phahon Yothin Soi 5 081-902-9183
About Eatery
Delivery Range: Bangkok and suburbs via bottlegrotto.com Time: 1-2 days This wine delivery service comes from the head Sommelier at Bunker, Andreas They offer pre-mixed cases or you can create your own from their curated catalog. Some recommendations of the moment: Zardetto Private Cuvée Brut NV (B690) from Veneto, and a Greywacke Sauvignon Blanc 2016 (B990) from Marlborough, New Zealand.
Wishbeer
Delivery Range: Bangkok and suburbs via wishbeer.com Time: Same day (beer); 2-7 days (wine and spirits) Bangkok’s top name for beer delivery also has a large selection of whiskey, wines and spirits. Try the Wishbeer Friend’s favorite (B949/6 bottles), which includes Duvel, Corona and Hoegaarden, to name a few. There’s also the popular Full Moon Chalawan Pale Ale (B129) from Thailand.
CAGETTE CANTEEN Wishbeer
15 Yen Akat Rd. 02-249-1684
Naturalista
Delivery Range: Nationwide via gonaturalista.com Time: 1 day (no delivery on weekends) Go here for natural wines that aren’t afraid of being different. The Domaine Des Enfants Le jouet 2015 (B1,150), for example, is a playful, peppery red recommended for Guns ‘N’ Roses fans, while the Clos Cibonne Cuvee Speciale des vignettes rose 2015 (B1500) offers a pungent hit of citrus and strawberry.
HOLEY KITCHEN
39/17 Soi Suan Phlu 02-286-1549 AMANTEE
2240/12-13 Chan Kao Rd. 02-678-1300 THE GROCERY BY EL MERCADO
Texica Wine
Delivery Range: Nationwide via wine@texica .co.th (minimum order B5,000) Time: 1 day This one focuses squarely on Italian wines. Recommended for right now is the Bottega Gold (B1,500), a fruity Prosecco, and the Amarone della Valpolicella Nicolis (B2,900), which is pleasant and delicate, with hints of fruit.
LA CASA NOSTRA
Suan Plu between Soi 1 and Soi 3 099 078 3444
22 Sathorn Soi 1 Yaek 2 (Goethe) 02-287-2402
Nana - Asoke
The Bottles
Delivery Range: Nationwide via thebottlesbkk.com Time: 1-2 days Though they do most of their trade in the hotel business, they’ll also deliver the goods for your private party, and not only winer. A bottle of Suntory Hibiki whiskey costs B4,900, or treat yourself to the light and affordable Chandon Seafolly rose (B859)
EL MERCADO
490 Soi Phai Singto 099-078-3444
Phrom Phong -Ekkamai
HOLEY BAKERY
Meet the Makers
Bei Otto
Just because it looks European doesn’t mean it is European. Meet the people making wine and cold cuts local.
KHUNPOL ISSARA ISSARA ESTATES WINERY
CHEF CLEMENT LOURDIN CAGETTE CANTEEN AND DELI
“We’re a family winery in Khao Yai. My parents and siblings are involved in every process of the winemaking. We grow vines on 30 rai of land and produce around 35,000 bottles each year—small for a winery. We grow shiraz, chenin blanc and cabernet sauvignon grapes and are taking steps to become a sustainable, organic vineyard.”
“I have a background from France in making charcuterie, and the general manager here at Cagette, Stan Bokanowski, really wanted the food to have a homemade, French taste. So why not make our own? Right now I produce coppa ham—a traditional Italian cold cut—and several other meats.”
Get this: Issara Estates Shiraz 2012 (B1,200).
Get this: Homemade lonzo (cured pork loin, B60/100g) and duck rillette (B180/100g).
CONKEY’S BAKERY
49 Terrace Sukhumvit Soi 49 083-040-5911
245/12 Sukhumvit Soi 31 02-101-1427
SOURCED GROCERS VIVIN MAISON
G/F, Central Chidlom Food Hall 02-392-5662
M/F, The Commons, 335 Thonglor Soi 17 094-526-4416
BK Magazine Friday, May 18, 2018
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escapes GRAND OPENING
Akyra Manor Chiang Mai
CHIANG MAI
How to Nail Nimman
Tong Tem Toh
The hub of Chiang Mai cool, Nimmanhaemin Road, can be a daunting place. Do it right with this guide to the street’s most-buzzing spots. By Kankanok Wichiantanon
Gallery Seescape
Overview: The latest offering from Nimman has just 36 rooms (all suites) built courtyard style for an indoor-outdoor feel. For those who hate being isolated, this one’s right in the city center with bars, coffee shops and restaurants just steps away. Rooms: On top of chic furniture, every room is not only spacious (60-100 sq-meters) but also has a Jacuzzi in the middle that's open to the elements. Pebble floors surrounding the tub and an open-air mountain backdrop successfully brings the outdoors in. Facilities: LCD TVs are linked up to cable, there’s an iPod packed with a large music library and dock, espresso machine, 430-thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets, and quality toiletries.
Ristr8to
Coffee breaks Nobody turns their attention to big chain coffee shops when on Nimman. There are plenty of little cafes that take the art of coffee brewing very seriously. Get your first of many cups at Ristr8to (Nimmanhemin Rd., between soi 3 and 5, 053215-278). It's arguably the most happening coffee shop in the area and is always packed. We recommend the God Mother Mocha (B158), served in a skull shaped-glass, for its deep flavor of Brazilian cacao syrup. Another serious spot is Graph Cafe (One-Nimman, Nimmanhaemin Rd., www.fb. com/graphonenimman), who’ve possibly clocked up more Instagram shots than anywhere else in Chiang Mai this year. Not-to-miss concoctions like the Lost Garden (a nitrogen-brewed coffee infused with rose water, B125) use coffee from farms in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. The scrumptious-looking baked goods come from sister project Find Coffee. For something a little different, Koland (Nimmanheamin Soi 1, 085-444-2124) is a cafe-slashtearoom offering drinks like sakura perfume tea with pomelo skin, and Koland Kumquat, honey lemon with Chinese orange.
Eat here For Western comfort dishes, Rustic and Blue (Nimmanhaemin Soi 7, 086-654-7178) offers things like Nuatella-stuffed French toast, acai bowls and rich eggs Benedict. They make their own chorizo, salami, feta cheese and sourdough
in-house. Have lunch at Tong Tem Toh (11 Nimmanhaemin Soi 13, 053-894-701) or Hong Taew (Nimmanhaemin Soi 17) for traditional Lanna cuisine like spicy northern-style sausage and curries. At dinnertime, the small kitchen at Blackitch (27/1 Nimmanhemin Soi 7, 084-323-1952), comes alive on the second floor of ice-cream shop Gelabar. Here they serve nine-course tasting menus of entirely local ingredients for B1,800.
Do this The shopping scene in Nimman is creative, unique and driven by local designers (whose stores sit not far from big brand names, too). At the newly opened One Nimman (1 Nimmanhaemin Rd., 052-080-900), you'll find boutiques selling colorful, local fabrics with a modern-chic energy. Check out Outfit of the Day (Nimmanhaemin Soi 1, 096-695-5520). Not into clothes shopping? Consider art hopping at Gongdee Gallery (Nimmanhaemin Soi 1, 053-225-032), which since 1989 has presented unique pieces made out of wood, C.A.P. Studio (Nimmanhaemin Soi 17, 087-810-8860), which specializes in limited-edition prints, and Gallery Seescape (22/1 Nimmanhaemin Soi 17, 093 831 9394), an experimental space with a chill courtyard. To pick up some beautiful coffee-table literature, drop by Booksmith (Nimmanhaemin Soi 3, 061-6259624), which stocks plenty of Thai and international titles, or for Thai literature check out Ran Lao (8/7 Nimmanhaemin Rd., 053-214-888).
One Nimman
Drink here First on the list, of course, is Chiang Mai’s all-time nightlife institution, Warm Up (40 Nimmanhaemin Rd., 053-400-677). Don’t come looking for interesting music or great food, but it’s the one place you can guarantee a crowd both young and old on any night of the week. For something more fancy, Myst (6/F, Maya Mall, 061-5126768) began life on Bangkok’s Thonglor, and is good for shakes and molecular cocktails. The Beer Republic (28 Nimmanhaemin Soi 11, 053-216-568) serves craft brews amid a cozy, Tuscany-referencing atmosphere with 15 beers on tap. The speakeasy Nap Gastrobar (Nimmanhaemin Rd., 089-954-9614) also makes a sabai sabai spot for its dimly-lit industrial decor, local and imported beers and small wine list. At sunset, head to actor Ananda Everingham’s Hotel Yayee, where the Yayee Rooftop Bar (17/5 Sainumphueng Rd., 099- 2695885) overlooks the mountains. For an alternative rooftop sundowner, check out the new Akyra Manor hotel’s pool deck (see box).
BK ASKS What's your favorite place in Nimman?
POR NAMWONGPHROM, FRONT OFFICE MANAGER AT AKYRA MANOR CHIANG MAI
DOM NATTHAWUT KHAMPEERA, PRIVATE TOUR GUIDE
KROONGTANA "CHANG" NIMNU, CHEF AT BOM BAY HUT
"Beer Lab (Nimmanhaemin Soi 12, 097-9974566) because it has this perfect chill-vibe, great for when you just want to relax with a brew from the UK or Germany."
"Living Machine Bar (Nimmanhaemin Soi 7, 096-646-6294). They have the best playlist; I could sit and chill there for hours."
"My favorite restaurant is Kiat Num. It's a hidden Thai restaurant (Nimmanhaemin Soi 11, 053-218-530) where they cook quality, spicy Thai dishes."
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Rave: The smoky decor and Egyptian cotton sheets really make the place feel high-end. Every room comes with floor-to-ceiling bathroom windows (courtyard style) overlooking the neighborhood of Nimman. Rant: The bar right across the streets starts pumping out its music around 8ish till pretty late—but that’s the price you pay for such a central location. The open-air bathrooms are cool and all, but you have to close the blinds if you don’t want the neighbors to see you naked, which, of course, ruins the whole purpose of having them. Neighborhood: Sitting on what locals call “Coffee Street,” there’s no shortage of hip cafes, cool bars, boutiques and galleries. Dining: A compact rooftop bar beside an elevated glass pool is one of the hotel’s real selling points, while downstairs sits an Italian spot called Italics (already comparatively well-known among locals thanks to its exec chef: Phubase Chuprakong from Iron Chef Thailand. Don’t expect classic Italian; rather a take on traditional Thai and Italian mixed together. The pizza here’s baked hot to order in a wood-fire oven. Try the Diavola (B330), a combination of buffalo mozzarella, spicy salami and roasted bell pepper—delectable. Price: 60sq-meter Deluxe Suites start at B5,300/night; while the 100-sq-meter Manor is B7,300. Kankanok Wichiantanon 22/2 Nimmanhaemin Soi 9, 053-216219. www.theakyra.com/chiang-mai
BK Magazine Friday, May 18, 2018
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es ESCAPE ROUTES By Kankanok Wichiantanon
OD
PHUKET
OK GK
FO ET E R
ST
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The Secret Shack Taking its name from the crunchy pork cracklings it sprinkles on all its dishes, Kak (goo.gl/27LevF) is a tiny hut—and we mean tiny—hidden down a small side street of Phuket's Yaowarat that’s causing a stir for its menu of Thai single-dishes. Little more than wooden slats and a thatched roof of dried palm leaves, this surf shack-look-alike doles out classics like mixed crispy pork belly and grilled pork noodles (B70) and stirfried noodles with chicken topped with crispy pork (B60). The place is often packed to the rafters with locals, but if you’re lucky you can claim one of the bar stools out front. Open daily 11:30am-2pm for noodles only, and 3-7pm for rice-based dishes.
BA
INDONESIA
Seaside Escape Located in the beachfront town of Legian, Fairfield by Marriott Bali Legian (goo. gl/1LbrSb) sits just a brief hop away from Seminyak, Bali’s hi-so hub of upscale resorts, shops and restaurants. Much like Marriott International’s Moxy brand, Fairfield is a low-cost chain (rates start at about B1,378/night) that doesn’t take any shortcuts in terms of design. Wood accents and a neutral brown palette give rooms a soothing feel, perfect for curling up after too much time in the sun. Save yourself the burn with one of the umbrella-shaded daybeds beside the pool, where a bar whips out cocktails and tasty tapas treats. Tebu Merah restaurant does Balinese fare that goes easy on the calories without compromising on flavors. The hidden catch to this bargain? The hotel’s all of 20 minutes’ walk from the white sands of Legian Beach.
SINGAPORE
Hot Spot A row of eight 19th-century shop-houses has been reborn as Six Senses Duxton (www.sixsenses.com), thanks to British designer Anouska Hempel (of Blakes London and Amsterdam renown). Located amid the vibrant Tanjong Pagar neighborhood bordering Chinatown, the luxury brand's first city hotel has 49 guestrooms and suites that take cues from Chinese, Malay and European heritage. The 18-sq-meter Nutmeg room (B7,916) comes decked out in monotone shades, with an arched white ceiling contrasting with the polished black wooden floor, while the the 27-sq-meter Opium room (B10,348) is designed after the neighborhood's opulent opium dens of yesteryear, replete with four-poster Chinese bed and an array of lacquerware. Yellow Pot restaurant on the ground floor does a contemporary take on Chinese fine dining, adjoined by a library-themed lobby bar. Sister property Six Senses Maxwell, located within walking distance, will follow in late-2018.
CHIANG MAI
River of Dreams Chiang Mai cafe mainstay The Baristro (goo. gl/LCKzNH) has opened its most photogenic branch yet. Perched beside the Ping River, this all-white, minimalist cafe comes bathed in natural light. As chic as the interior is (all polished countertops and exposed ceilings), you really want to claim a spot in the little garden where you can watch the river’s lazy flow from one of the beanbags. As always, the drinks are no novelty: try the Nitro Orange (B145), a carbonated concoction served with a wedge of orange for zing, or the Black Coconut (B95), which sees fresh coconut water mixed with an espresso shot. To go with, the smooth and creamy tiramisu (B99) won’t let you down.
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avenue NEW COLLECTION
Island in the Sun When it comes to that breezy islander look, go beyond those tired fruity Hawaiian shirts everyone’s wearing on the BTS. For its second spring/summer 2018 collection, Loewe teams up with legendary Ibiza boutique Paula to fuse bohemian coastal ready-towear pieces for men and women with playful prints. For women’s you’ll find sundresses, caftans, peasant blouses and patchwork denim, while menswear covers swimsuits, boardshorts and fisherman pants. They all come vibrantly adorned with whimsical beach motifs like mermaids, hummingbirds, beach flags and polka dots. Also look out for the novelty canvas mermaid tote bag (B27,500) and raffia woven basket bag (B16,500) to complete your summer holiday look. Available at M/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-9825. Open daily 10am-10pm
SPA
Feeling Fab Spa addicts can go all out at The Penthouse by BFF, the new spa on the rooftop of J Avenue. Pristine white walls touched up with posh purple curtains and chairs befit the big-name products which star in treatments like the 75-minute Anti-Blemish Facial using London’s high-end skincare brand 111Skin (B6,500). Hair packages come with names like Santa Monica, West Hollywood, Malibu and Beverly Hills. For the works, choose the 120-minute package which includes an intense hair treatment using Philip B’s Russian amber imperial shampoo, a full body massage and deep scalp toning (B6,200). 4/F, J Avenue Thonglor, 02-712-9666. Open daily 10am-7pm. www.fb.com/thepenthousebybff
EXHIBITION
Get Air Here’s an event to get sneakerheads’ blood pumping: an exhibition solely dedicated to the legendary Nike Air Jordans. Curated by Singaporean multi-label sportswear store Seek, the Seek Mini Jordan exhibition delves into the iconic sneakers’ backstory, cultural impact and legacy, as intertwined with the career of ‘80s-’90s basketball prodigy Michael Jordan. Notable Air Jordan models going on display include the pioneering Air Jordan 1 (whose black-red colorway saw it banned by the NBA), Air Jordan VI, Air Jordan XI and the Air Jordan III “Katrina,” as well as other highly-coveted models. Running through May 31. Seek, 3/F, Central Embassy, 1031 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-160-5689. Open daily 10am-10pm. www.fb.com/seekofficialTH
SHOPPING
Parisian Chic To celebrate its 46th anniversary, local high-street brand Jaspal has surprised all by collaborating with…wait for it, Karl Lagerfeld. The celebrated designer behind Chanel works his magic in a funfilled Paris-inspired collection of ready-to-wear essentials in his signature black and white palette. “Paris by Day” presents cute, quirky details like Lagerfeld and tuk-tuk cartoon graphics on casual T-shirts (from B1,095-1,795) and button-down shirts (B2,295), to be paired with leather jackets (B5,995) and cropped skinny jeans (B2,795). Meanwhile, “Paris by Night” is all about chic and feminine evening pieces. Available at 2/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-251-5918. Open daily 10am-10pm. www.jaspal.com
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avenue FASHION
Where are They? COS just filled a minimal, Scandinavian-shaped hole in Bangkok’s shopping scene. Now we’re just waiting for these labels to arrive. By Dhipkawee Sriyananda Selley
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Urban Outfitters
Style: Boho glam meets edgy ‘90s grunge. What: We really envy Hong Kong as the first (and only) country in Asia to have Urban Outfitters. If COS is the true calling for minimal hipsters with heavy pockets, then Urban Outfitters is for rich hipsters whose wardrobes mainly consist of quirky, stylish bohemian pieces for both sexes—apparel, (awesome) footwear and accessories. There's also cosmetics, music, tech, books and home decor. We can spend hours just browsing around the trendy store. Our favorite piece: We’re a sucker for everything when it comes to this brand, but their slouchy, chunky cardigan (around B1,880), graphic tees (from B920) and anything from their Urban Renewal vintage selection top our list. www.urbanoutfitters.com
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All Saints
Style: Chic rock ‘n’ roll mixed with a grungy, industrial aesthetic. What: This one falls into the category of “love, can’t often afford to buy.” Most of the stuff from this high-end British retailer has an edgy look: shades of black, dark gray and brown, as well as other neutral autumnal colors. While their men’s and women’s apparel offers T-shirts,
jeans, hoodies, coats, footwear and bags, their most well-known pieces are definitely the leather jackets in timeless silhouettes, whether biker, shearling or bomber styles. Our favorite piece: The Tassel Balfern Biker Jacket for women and Theo Suede Biker Jacket in like khaki for men (both around B14,910). www.allsaints.com
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River Island
Style: Trendy, glitzy-glam and feminine. What: At first glance, this London high-street brand may look very Topshop, but the target here is more office girls—mid-20s to early 30s— who know the latest trends and party on the weekends. Dresses range from fun-and-flirty to smart-casual and even evening dresses. They also have menswear, mostly smart-casual, everyday pieces like T-shirts, sweatshirts, blazers, jeans, chinos—you get the picture. Our favorite piece: The green floral sweetheart bodycon midi dress (around B3,020). www.riverisland.com
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United Arrows
Style: Sartorial meets street. What: A high-end multi-brand label from Japan with clothes that if styled to perfection
will make any man look like they just stepped off a Pitti Uomo street-style photo-shoot with Scott Schuman. A major force in Japanese menswear, United Arrows gathers everything from dressed-up classics to street-style essentials, catering to quality-conscious customers in their early 30s to early 50s. Coveted Japanese brands like Mountain Research and Beauty & Youth come as standard, along with Italian shirtmaker Salvatore Piccolo and familiar names like Levi’s, Adidas Originals and The North Face. Our favorite piece: The United Arrows Combat Jacket in beige (around B4,425) and Stile Latino soft wool jacket and slacks (around B79,000). www.store.united-arrows.co.jp
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Elizabeth and James
Style: Sophisticated everyday pieces with a minimal aesthetic. What: If you grew up as a teen in the early 2000s, you’ll know that Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen were every girls’ ultimate fashion idols. That’s why we were all pretty stoked when they launched this clothing brand in 2007. Chic, minimal everyday pieces are stylishly feminine yet smart enough for most occasions. From flowy, sophisticated dresses and clean-cut button downs, to sleek leather bags and statement sunglasses, this brand perfectly shows that the
secret to a sharp-dressed woman is the “less is more” approach. Our favorite piece: The Drew Crop Sleeve Kimono (around B14,593) and Huxley 40mm Geometric Sunglasses (around B7,382). www.elizabethandjames.us
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J. Crew
Style: Classic, All-American fashion staples. What: Think traditional striped sweaters, gingham poplin midi-dresses for women and crisp cotton oxford shirts, chinos and boat shoes for men. This American brand has been making classic wardrobe staples since 1983, and they’re still going strong. With their unexpected color blocking, bright trench coats, pastel knits, fun layering, and oversized hipster sunglasses, J. Crew sure knows how to keep things playful and fresh. After looking at their sunny and optimistic campaigns, it kind of makes us want to give our monochrome wardrobe a colorful makeover. Our favorite piece: The Ruffle Chino Jacket for women (around B3,190) and Navy, woven-collar polo in pima cotton for men (around B1,937). www.jcrew.com
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SHOP HERE Top local alternatives while we wait
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URBAN OUTFITTERS:
ALL SAINTS:
RIVER ISLAND:
UNITED ARROWS:
ELIZABETH AND JAMES:
J. CREW:
Pull & Bear, Stradivarius
Rag & Bone, John Varvatos
H&M, Topshop
Beams
COS, Celine
Ralph Lauren
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bites & blends
NEW CAFE
Ceramic Heaven Taking over a grand townhouse dating back to the ‘80s, A Clay Cafe has already hit a nerve with Chong Nonsi’s office hordes. The wood and tile-heavy design courtesy of architecture team Physicalist gives off a classy, mid-century modern vibe in which to enjoy dirt-cheap coffee (B40-55), herbal teas (including yanang leaf with pandan or bael, okra and jujube, each B45) and light snacks. These bites span both sweet (a classic raspberry muffin, B30) and savory (the hefty Chinese pastry with salted egg yolk lava, B50). The ground-floor and mezzanine are geared at hosting ceramics workshops (see www.fb.com/aclaycafe for schedule), but head upstairs and you’ll find a cozy, sofa-strewn space where sun streams in through eye-catching round windows. Those quirky cups and other ceramics you see around the place are for sale, too, from around B150. Sathorn Soi 8. Open Mon-Sat 11am-5pm. BTS Chong Nonsi
WORKSHOP
NEW CHEF
EVENT
Perfect Pairing
Add Some Polish
Victory Lap
The people behind Wine Garage, the online artisanal wine shop, will join forces with Jordan Cortes, the head sommelier at L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon, for an afternoon workshop on May 22 dedicated to food and wine pairing. Cortes, originally from northern Spain, has worked in Michelin restaurants throughout Europe including a three-year stint with Robuchon in London. For B5,500 you’ll taste a variety of bubbles, whites and reds with Cortes offering guidance on complementary and contrasting pairing possibilities. It’ll all take place at The Cookhouse Number 9, a private supper club on Sukhumvit Soi 30, whose chefs are Le Cordon Bleu London grads, from 2-5pm. Reservations at marketing@winegarage.asia
Polish chef Bart Cywinski has taken the reigns at Hotel Muse, overseeing the kitchens of Medici, Babette’s The Steakhouse and The Speakeasy. Counting experience at London’s The Grill at the Dorchester and, most recently, Singapore’s one-Michelin-star Jaan, Cywinski is tasked with taking Medici’s rustic Italian offerings in a contemporary Mediterranean direction. Local, ingredients form the backbone of Thai-caught brown crab and tomato cannoli (B690) and slow-cooked organic egg (B350) with bellota, chorizo and porcini. The hotel has also taken a hard line on unnecessary waste, replacing all plastic straws with metal ones. LG/F, Hotel Muse, 55/555 Soi Langsuan, 02-630-4000.
Long Table, the 25th-floor restaurant with a 25-meter-long table, has long proven it’s more than a gimmick. This month the Asoke institution celebrates its 10th birthday, which puts it in the exalted club of, well, not too many Bangkok restaurants. May 24’s “X Marks the Spot” party will combine everything Long Table’s come to be known for: contemporary takes on Thai food to share, funky live music and generous-pour cocktails, all in a swankily-dressed space. The public’s invited along from 10:30pm, when the Analog Band and DJ Ono will take turns lighting up the dancefloor, and Johnnie Walker is bound to be in full flow. 25/F, Column Building, 48 Sukhumvit Soi 16, 02-302-2557-9. Open Mon-Sun 5pm-2am
Open Mon-Sun 12pm-2:30pm, 6pm-11pm
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blends EVENTS
Where to wet your whistle for World Whiskey Day
THE 88 1. Whiskey 101 course. Covering different styles of whiskey with tastings. Learn about what makes bourbon a bourbon and how it’s different from Scotch. B500. 2. Whiskey tasting flights B900. 88 Surawong Rd., 087-663-136
ia
WHISKEY
Turning Japanese It’s world whiskey day (May 19)—and if there’s one thing the whiskey world knows, it’s that Japan is hot. Here, our pros share their buying tips from the Land of the Rising Sun. By Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj UNDER B1,500
Suntory White, B1,250 “Suntory White is the Suntory distillery’s oldest product, put on the market by the company founder, Shinjiro Torii. It might not be quite as refined as the higher level products like Hibiki or Yamazaki, but it is definitely part of the Japanese Koji Hara whiskey history.” —
UNDER B2,500
Mars Iwai Tradition, B2,400 “For when you want something better than a Suntory but don’t want to splurge on a Yamazaki or Hibiki.” — Ping Charoensri
UNDER B3,500
Suntory Royal, B3,200 “Suntory Royal blended whiskey was first introduced in 1960 to mark the company’s 60th anniversary. The owner of Suntory also handled all the process of making this whiskey.” — Koji Hara
UNDER B5,000
BUDGET NOT IMPORTANT
“The whiskey is a blend of all the famous small distilleries in Japan.” — Koji Hara
“A whiskey of two generations. The maker at Ichiro combines his single malt with his grandfather’s single malt from a now closeddown distillery. A nice blend of nuttiness and a spicy finish. Great neat with a drop of mineral water or on the rocks.” - Ping Charoensri
VOGUE LOUNGE 1. Buy-one-get-one free all night long on a selection of single malt whiskies and blended scotch. 2. Whiskey tasting flights of Chivas 12, Chivas Extra and Chivas 18 for B490 (30ml shot) 6/F, Mahanakhon Cube, Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Rd., 02-001-0697
Ichito’s Malt & Grain Chichibu Ichito’s Malt Double Distilleries, Blended Whiskey, B4,600 B10,000 Hibiki Japanese Harmony, B4,800 ”I picked this one because it’s good enough that you can just have it neat. With its slight hint of floral aroma on top of the complex taste of cherry and mizuna [“Japanese mustard”], and the price—it’s definitely worth paying for.” — Nawin Pimolrat
Yamazaki Single Malt Whisky - Distiller’s Reserve, B4,990 “We all know that Yamazaki Whiskey is good quality whiskey but you can buy this bottle easily in Bangkok without breaking the bank. Drink it neat; with an ice cube; or with drops of mineral water to enjoy all the characters it has to offer.” — Nawin Pimolrat
EVIL MAN BLUES A four-course Scottish Highlands whiskey pairing with sweet and savory snacks for B1,800. G/F, 72 Courtyard, 72 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 02-392-7740
Essentials Wishbeer. Sukhumvit Soi 67, 02-392-1403. www. wishbeer.com Godfather. 4/F, Central Embassy, 1031 Ploen Chit Rd., 081-818-8758. Open daily 10am-10pm 2/F, The Crystal Park, 215 Pradit Manutham Rd., 061-175-3536. Open daily 10am-10pm Bacchus Global. 02-662-6176, info@bacchusglobal. co.th
LUCKY FISH “A Flight to Japan, Japanese Whiskey Tasting,” hosted by Kei Sawada of Salon Du Japonisant, focuses on Hibiki, Yamazaki and Hakushu. B950. G/F, 72 Courtyard, 72 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 02-392-6926
THE EXPERTS Who Are They? Koji Hara is the managing & director, sommelier and sake master at Bacchus Global, aka the company that brings us Hibiki, Yamazaki and other premium Japanese spirits. He also owns this speakeasy Salon du Japonisant.
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Ping Charoensri mastered his craft in Washington D.C. before moving back to Bangkok to open up Japanese restaurant Fillets. He now stands behind the bar at Marriott Marquis’s ABar as the head bartender.
Nawin Pimpolrat is the man who looks after all the drinks at 72 Courtyard. He was the one that created those yummy-butnot-cheesy punches at Bar Savoy and trains all the bartenders for every bar inside 72.
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bites FOOD REVIEWS
Man Fu Yuan Kitchen HHH
Chinese. 8/F, The EmQuartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-003-6240. Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Phrom Phong F BB-BBB
Singapore-hailing Man Fu Yuan doesn’t get the attention heaped on fellow dim sum imports Tim Ho Wan and Din Tai Fung. While the high-end Cantonese restaurant in the hallowed halls of Rajpruek Golf Club welcomes no shortage of VIP visitors, a recent weekend visit to this casual spin-off, meant to take the brand to the EmQuartier-dwelling masses, found the place practically empty. To be fair, it wasn’t alone on this count. Still, Man Fu Yuan Kitchen deserves more love. Hidden up in the eaves of the mall’s topsy-turvy Helix Quartier dining zone, the restaurant approximates its main branch’s exclusive feel through tufted booths, floral-patterned chairs and decorative ceramics. It’s too bad the plinking classical mood music is no match for the mall’s all-invasive, club soundtrack, because in all other areas Man Fu Yuan
Schneider Haus HH
International. Ari Samphan Soi 4, 098-4269456. Open daily 5-1:30pm. BTS Ari. BB-BBB F
Good German restaurants are hard to come by in Bangkok. Sure, you can get a pork knuckle or a sausage platter at nearly any beerhouse from the city to the suburbs, but they rarely scream authenticity. Schneider Haus, Ari’s latest beer garden and quasi-German establishment, isn’t a game-changer in that regard. With links to Bavaria’s Schneider Weisse brewing company, Schneider Haus is set in a spacious house tucked in a quiet nook just down Ari Soi 4. But to call this place a “German” restaurant doesn’t quite feel right. The menu boasts around 120 dishes, only about seven of which are actually German. The rest span the typical hodgepodge of international and local flavors—Italian pasta, American burgers and Thai comfort food. The eclectic decor—metal chairs, bare wood tables, hanging chandeliers and Schneider Weisse flags—also feels a tad German, but mostly not. The blasting pop-EDM songs don’t help the vibe much. Given the space, atmosphere and
Kitchen exudes a calmness that’s far removed from the din of, say, Tim Ho Wan. The kitchen is a notch above, too, excelling in flavors and texture. The soy sauce-laden chee cheong fun with crispy shrimp (B195/6 pieces) is soft, springy rice-noodle exterior, crunchy center. Like all the dishes we tried, there’s no skimping on the good stuff. Each roll is stuffed with a big, bouncy shrimp, and you can taste the freshness. Just as plump and satisfying are the pork and shrimp siew mai (B145/3 pieces), thin-skinned dumplings that all but dissolve in your mouth, topped off with XO sauce for a pungent kick. We also love the generous char siu to dough ratio of the crunchy little deepfried pork buns (B100/3 pieces), though the intensely sweet honey glaze is a sticking point. The tea-smoked duck (starting at B350/portion) also has its flaws, with skin that’s aromatic, but not particularly crisp, but the smoky, fatty meat is a definite point in its favor. Balance out all that doughiness with a hefty plate of crisp stir-fried Chinese broccoli with oyster sauce (B220) and then cleanse your palate with the surprisingly luscious mango sago dessert with pomelo (B130). Complementing the food, the dutiful waitstaff who’ll refill your tea cup at the merest of sips (B180 for a pot of the brand’s own 5 Element Tea) lend Man Fu Yuan Kitchen a warmth you don’t always associate with dim sum restaurants.
massive menu, it actually serves well as an all-purpose, family-friendly restaurant. This isn’t to say that Schneider Haus is a bad experience. While dishes like the German sausage platter (stacked high with Frankfurters, Nurnberger and bratwurst, B250/medium, B350/large) won’t redefine your expectations when it comes to German food, it’s clear there’s attention to the basics here. Piping hot off the grill, the sausages have a snappy, fresh bite bursting with all the juicy flavor you hope for. Other traditional German dishes are hearty, loaded with carbs and generally satisfying. The Schneider Haus pork knuckle (B595/full, B250/half) is an intimidating slab of roasted meat, even in the half size, dropped on your table still piping hot and begging to be sliced open. It’s a shame that, on our last visit, it was overcooked and dry. The schnitzel (B280) also suffers the same fate—fresh, hot and filling, but not something to write home about. For better or worse, the food pairs excellently with the restaurant’s seven-strong selection of on-tap Schneider Weisse (from B140/0.2l to B1,490/3l), like the full-bodied mein original with its slightly bitter-sour finish to help kick back the salty German fare. The on-the-ball staff also make sure your empty beer mugs don’t stay that way very long. There are certainly better places in town to gnaw on pork knuckle and knock back heavy beers, but Schneider Haus’s offerings are good enough to leave you feeling full and a little wobbly. That’s enough for us.
INTERN WITH US! (MARKETING, EDITORIAL, ART AND VIDEO DEPARTMENTS.) You must be at least 18-years-old
Ratings
Price guide
PPPP PPPP PPPP PPPP PPPPP
B BB BBB BBBB
Forget it Only if you’re in the neighborhood A pleasant dining experience Not to be missed Flawless BK pays for its meal and does not call ahead or sit with the chef.
Under B500 B500-900 B900-1,500 B1,500 and up Price per person, including one drink, appetizer, main course, dessert, charges and tax.
Symbols
H Reservations recommended F Parking E Dress requirements G Live music
You must send in a cover letter and resume. Specify which department you are applying for.
Open to Thai and foreign nationals Internships are full-time, unpaid and last 3 months.
Candidates should be fluent in both Thai and English. Send your resume and a cover letter to jobs@asia-city.co.th
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bites
OPEN DOOR
Mallard
Sukhumvit Soi 49 welcomes a Mediterranean game restaurant. The buzz: A restaurant specializing in wild-caught game has landed among the ranks of bars and eateries on Sukhumvit Soi 49. Turkish chef Mehmet Semet’s experience in Norway’s kitchens shines through in a protein-heavy menu. The decor: Brace yourself for the maximalist decor, which we’ll call upscale hunting lodge for the many animal trophies and statues that crowd the glossy interior. Paintings of ducks (the namesake mallard) add some color to inside’s gentlemanly mix of dark woods and exposed brickwork, while a sleek, winding bar is a prime spot for people watching, libation in hand. Outside a tree-hugged terrace gives a convincing impression of dining in the woods.
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The food: Exotic game is the star. Start off with the mallard terrine (B320), whose coarse texture is enhanced by the accompanying toasted pistachios. Also included in the platter are dates braised in red wine, parma ham and whole grain mustard. Seasoned with a hint of cumin and cinnamon, the wild boar meatballs (B430) make a hefty meal, served in a castiron skillet with a creamy sage sauce, shallots, Brussel sprouts and baked baby potatoes. If you’re not quite ready to venture into the wild meats, you can always try the garlic-and-rosemary-marinated grilled half-chicken (B390) served with shitake mushrooms and chimichurri sauce. Save room for dessert, as these crisp, airy churros (B220) with chili-chocolate sauce and blueberry yogurt ice cream are not to be missed.
The drinks: Cocktails take an accessibly fruity route, as in The El Toro (B240), which mixes aged rum, passion fruit, lime and cherry liqueur, or the Crazy Mango (B260), an easygoing blend of vodka, lime, cane sugar, chili and mango. As befits the logcabin surrounds there’s also a nice lineup of whiskey, starting at B240 for a glass of Glenlivet 12 Year Old and B420 for the Yamazaki Single Malt. Why we’d go back: The diverse range of protein on offer paired with the heavenly churros make Mallard a tempting proposition. Megan Leon 16 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-662-6117. Open daily 11:30am-11:30pm
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Rabb Coffee by Casa Lapin
The Fork Eatery
Sevana Bar
La Bottega di Luca
NEW AND NOTED
Fork That The Ratchadamri neighborhood has a cozy new comfort-food destination. The Fork Eatery (365/9 Soi Phaya Nak, Phayathai Rd., 086-842-4426) sees three globe-trotting friends whip up a greatest-hits menu not restricted by geography. Alongside wagyu beef pad kaprao with onsen egg (B185) and jim jaew pork (B140), you’ll find everything from egg shakshuka (B150) and Indonesian chicken laksa (B160) to Dutch mini pancakes (B115) and specials like Aussie lamington (check for availability), all plated up in a pristine white abode.
Move Over Amazon Spotted on the walkway to BTS Sala Daeng, Rabb Coffee by Casa Lapin (www.fb.com/RabbCoffeeFC) is the coffee empire’s logical next step to Bangkok domination. This grab-
TABLE TALK
and-go kiosk in pastel green will pour you a B35 espresso or B75 coffee frappe made with beans from the north. Right now we know of only one other kiosk under the same name, way out at the Jas Ramintra mall, but owing to a pretty vigorous online franchising campaign we don’t think this is the last you’ve heard of Rabb Coffee.
Budget Smalls Sevana Bar (28 Chan Soi 16, 095-797-6645) gives largely nightlife-free Chan Road a shot in the arm. The moodily lit shop-house is finding favor with old-timers of the art and journalism scenes, who pile in for the third-floor exhibitions (currently showing: “Duality” by photographer Paul Lukin), no-fuss Thai food till late (pad Thai with shrimp, B190; pad kaprao, B180) and the occasional hit of live music that doesn’t upstage the conversation. The generous 7:30-10pm happy hours obviously help, too. BK staff
2/F, Terrace 49, Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-204-1731. Open Tue-Sun 11:30am-2:30pm; daily 5:30pm-12:00am. BTS Phrom Phong Styled like a deli and a restaurant but more evocative of a fine-dining hotspot, this upscale eatery offers Italian classics made with fresh and, sometimes, homemade ingredients. The friendly and well-versed staff will tell all you need to know, from rotating daily specials to what region of Italy the dishes come from. The results are both delicious and beautifully plated, like the spaghetti with clams sauteed in white wine sauce (B490). To drink, the cellar comes equipped with some of the finest Super Tuscans around. Exclusively for Citi credit card members Get a complimentary welcome drink and chef’s dessert valued THB 800 when spending via Citi ULTIMA, Citi Prestige, Citi Preferred and Citi Select card members (limit 1 set /card /table /sales slip) Today – 31 Dec 18
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SUN Found Sounds “Jimi Hendrix-esque,” “soundtrack to a Quentin Tarantino film that doesn’t exist,” “Mediterranean ‘70s porn movie music”—all these comparisons and many more have applied to the mostly instrumental jams of Khruangbin. The Texan three-piece with the Thai name (literally meaning, erm, “engine fly”) bring their meditative mix of surf ‘n’ soul and sexfunk to The EmQuartier of all places this May 20 in the final installment of Bangkok Art and Music Month. See page 17.
FRI Abandoned No More From a decrepit nightclub in Pattaya to an airplane boneyard in Bang Kapi, American photographer Dax Ward has a knack for seeing the beauty in the ruins of society. These places that time has forgotten form the basis of his new exhibition, Abandonia, opening on May 18 (see page 18). If you miss the opening party at Jam (always a raucous affair), you have until Jun 8 to catch the show, lest it also be lost to the sands of time.
SAT Ace of Bass Bangkok’s proponents of all things drum ‘n’ bass, Kontraband, present one of their Tokyo soulmates this May 19. Taking the well-trodden stage at De Commune will be Itti, Japan’s rising force of bass-heavy beats whose also been turning heads in Europe of late. Warming up the decks will be mainstays DeLorean, Azek and Will. See page 17.
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TUE Corrosive Influence At 80 years old, Tadayoshi Nakabayashi is widely considered a living treasure of Japan. The master printmaker actively explores the concept of decomposition, by illustrating the harmony and tension between paper and ink as metaphors for light and dark, day and night, and life and death. His latest darkly poetic collection, Sea of Corrosion/From Ground to Light, goes on show at Ardel Gallery of Modern Art from May 22. See page 18.
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NIGHTLIFE
Itti
Yeti Dis:ko
BASA BONGO
A variety of world music from the ‘60s and ‘70s courtesy of Zudrangma Records’ DJ Dangdut Banget. May 18, 9pm. Studio Lam, 3/1 Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. B200. WESTIN POOL PARTY
DJs Chazin, Jerome G, Sammy and Juany Bravo spin house and disco tunes by the pool all day. Don't miss the open bar between 1-2pm. May 19, 1pm. The Westin Grande, 259 Sukhumvit Soi 19, 02-207-8000. B400 includes 1 drink. KONTRABAND FEAT. ITTI (JP/DIFFRENT MUSIC)
A night of drum and bass from the Kontraband crew and Japanese producer Itti known for his “technical mastery” and “heavyweight tunes.” May 19, 9pm. De Commune, 1/F, Liberty Plaza, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 061-717-4365. B150 (free-flow Singha while stocks last). Price TBA. LOUD PRES. DERAIL-D KWENTA & HEXER
DJs Charlie Kwenta and Hextar team up to present hard-hitting techno. May 19, 10pm. Mustache, 544/5 Ratchadaphisek Soi 7, 02-274-5855.
Flava
THAILAND GAA'S END OF SEASON POOL PARTY
AmBar brings a close to their famous pool party, promising fun in the sun before the rainy season hits full-tilt. May 19, 2pm. AmBar, 4 Sukhumvit Soi 15, 02-309-3000. B1,500 for food and alcohol. B750 for food and non-alcoholic drinks. LOUD PRS. CORAN & KOISH & ATMA
2018
Techno and house from resident DJs Coran, Koish and Atma. May 20, 10pm. GLOW, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-261-4446. B250 includes 1 drink.
BK Best Eats 2018
BEAM X TUN TEN
The first installment of a new party series for the electronic music community, featuring DJ Sunju Hargun spinning back-to-back with DJ Elaheh. May 24, 9pm. Beam, 72 Courtyard, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 02-3927750. B300. GLOW THURSDAY W/ WINTIX & VICTORIA
Deep techno and progressive sounds from local DJs Wintix and Victoria Gewinnen. May 24, 9:30pm. GLOW, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-2614446. B250 includes 1 drink.
YETI DIS:KO | BEAM
SUGAR CLUB PRESENTS: FLAVA
The Yeti Out collective rolls out leftfield disco and uplifting, romantic 4x4 house sounds, supported by Slum Disco Soundsystem. May 19, 9pm. Beam, 72 Courtyard, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 02-392-7750. Free.
Dutch DJ Flava brings his eclectic trap and dancehall hits to Bangkok’s hiphop hotspot. May 24, 11pm. Sugar, 37 Sukhumvit Soi 11, 061-391-3111. B300 for males, B200 for females includes 1 drink.
5th edition coming this August! Best Eats is the ultimate guide to this city’s buzzing food scene, with over 100 of our top “comfort food” picks – from ramen to dim sum, burgers to pizza, breakfast to dessert. To reserve your spot in Best Eats 2018, contact our sales team at advertising@asia-city.co.th or 02-624-9696.
LIVE MUSIC Auditorium, 5/F, Siam Motor Bldg., 891/1 Rama 1 Rd., 02-215-0830-50. B1,800-2,000 at Thai Ticket Major. DALE BARLOW QUARTET LIVE AT FOOJOHN BUILDING
Dale Barlow
KHRUANGBIN
The psychedelic Texan 3-piece with Thai name perform live as part of BAMM, supported by locals The Photo Sticker Machine and Summer Dress. May 20, 9pm. 5/F, The EmQuartier, Sukhumvit Rd. B950-1,290. ADAM ROGERS DICE TRIO
The virtuoso American guitarist performs a Jimi Hendrix tribute set accompanied by jazz bass and drums. May 26, 7pm. Dr Tavorn Pornprapha
Known for his highly skilled performances, Australian tenor saxophonist/composer Dale Barlow performs in Bangkok. May 19, 9pm. Foojohn Building, 831 Chareonkrung Soi 31, 087-593-9973, 095-060-6286. Free. RHYE
Artist Rhye (aka Mike Milosh) debuts his latest bedroom R&B-vibe album, Blood, in Bangkok. Expect an intimate night of soft, smooth and sensual sounds. May 23, 7pm. Voice Space, 197 BBD Building, Viphavadi Rangsit Rd., 02-650-6000. B1,800.
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now MARKETS
CLASSICAL DAVIDE ALOGNA DUO
HBD MARKET
As part of the Italian Festival, the Embassy of Italy presents a recital concert by violinist virtuoso Davide Alogna and pianist Leonarda Armellini. May 16, 7pm. Chulalongkorn University, Music Hall, Art and Culture Bldg., 02250-4970. Free (upon registration at www. eventbrite.com).
A design market for handmade and design products from local artists and producers. May 24-27, 10am. G/F, EmQuartier, 693 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-269-1000. Free. T77 YARD SALE PART 2 HBD Market
THE FLYING DUTCHMAN
Davide Alogna Duo
Acclaimed Greek conductor Dionysis Grammenos makes his debut with the Thai Philharmonic Orchestra, joined by Russian cellist Alexey Stadler to perform works by Elgar, Wagner’s “The Flying Dutchman” and Schoenberg’s arrangement of Brahm’s Piano Quartet No.1. May 18 (7pm) & May 19 (4pm). Prince Mahidol Hall, 999 Phuttamonthon 4 Rd., Salaya, 02-800-2525. B400-1,500.
Shop for used clothes, home decor, furniture, toys and accessories. May 19, 11am. Habito Mall, Onnut 1/1, Sukhumvit Soi 77, 02-136-5932. Free. INCEEMONDEE MARKET
T77 Yard Sale Part 2
ART
Under the concept of “eating and living well knowing the source,” this market promises a range of organic and natural products from local farmers and producers. May 19, 11am. InCeeMonDee Organic Store & Cafe, Project 71 Mall, Nak Niwat Soi 2. Free. THE KNACK MARKET
The Knack Market
The ‘70s hippie-inspired market provides a space for local producers to sell their art, craft and street food. May 26-27, The Jam Factory, 41/1-5 Charoennakorn Rd., 02-8610950. Free.
PHOTOGRAPHY
New exhibition catalogs Thailand's abandoned spaces
Prelude Solo Exhibition by Wittawat Tongkeaw
Opening May 18 at Sathorn's Jam bar and gallery, Abandonia is an exhibition by Bangkok-based American photographer Dax Ward, who over the years has documented abandoned urban spaces all over Thailand.
Tadayoshi Nakabayashi
BIBLIOMANIA 2018
An exhibition of books from 12 artists whose subjects vary from fiction to a more "objective" observation of so-called "reality." With opening party on May 22, 6pm. May 22-Jun 24. Tentacles Gallery, N22, 2198/10-11 Narathiwas Soi 22, 080560-5405. Free. TADAYOSHI NAKABAYASHI – SEA OF CORROSION / FROM GROUND TO LIGHT
The Japanese art master illustrates harmony and tension between paper and ink as metaphors for light and dark, day and night, and life and death. May 22-Jun 24, 6:30pm. Ardel Gallery of Modern Art, 99/4546 Moo 18, Boromratchonnanee Rd., Taveewathana. Free. THE LAST LETTER
Contemporary Transformation
written letters, exchanged between a couple many years ago, as set against today’s fast and shallow “hookup culture.” Through May 31, 10am. 10ml, Vibhavadi Rangsit Soi 16, 089-465-6915. Free. PRELUDE SOLO EXHIBITION BY WITTAWAT TONGKEAW
A study into Thailand’s political conflict, as expressed through paintings, sculptures and installations. May 19Jul 1, 6pm. S.A.C. (Subhashok The Arts Centre), Soi Phrom Chit, Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-662-0299. Free. BETTER DAYS BY EPHAMERON
The Belgian artist highlights the different facets of motherhood through graphic narratives. May 24-Jun 28, 5pm. Humble Projects, 41/40, Soi Sunthon Phimon, Rong Muang, 081921-3403. Free.
Thai artist Kiwtim exhibits 9 artworks inspired by heartfelt hand-
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Teleport Exhibition
CONTEMPORARY TRANSFORMATION
Manfredi Style takes familiar objects and transforms them into something completely different as a reflection of today’s rapidly changing society. Through Jun 11. Duke Contemporary Art Space, 1/F, Gaysorn Village, 999 Phloen Chit Rd., 094-647-8888. Free. DEFINITION OF HUMAN BEING YOU
Seventeen local artists raise awareness about discrimination through works under the theme of diversity and equality. May 19-Jun 2. Krungthai Art Gallery, 260 Yaowarat Rd, Chakkrawat, 02-222-0137. Free. TELEPORT EXHIBITION
Artist Gongkan creates a “black hole” as a path to the world free of cruelty and full of beauty and equality. May 24-Jun 15, 11am. Warehouse 30, Charoenkrung Soi 30. Free.
According to the 38-year-old Arkansas native, these haunting photographs of urban "graveyards"—from a decrepit nightclub in Pattaya to the infamous water-logged New World Mall in Bangkok—serve as a reminder of “what once was, what might’ve been, and what happens when we forget.” Yet, amid the rubble and decay of these one-time attractions, there is something captivating. “They are not as they once were, nor will they ever again be. If we look closely, it isn’t hard to find [beauty]” Dax says in his artist statement for the exhibition. May 18-Jun. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833. BTS Surasak.
THEATER & DANCE GABEZ SHOW
As part of Bangkok International Children’s Theatre Festival, The Japan Foundation presents a dance and silent comedy performance by artist duo Masa and Hitoshi that combines dance, acrobatics and non-verbal play. See bictfest.com for more info. May 24, 26 & 27. Sodsai Pantoomkomol Centre for Dramatic Arts, 254 Phaya Thai Rd., 02-218-4802. B650 for adults, B250 for children.
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FILM Opening (May 17)
BOOK CLUB (USA)
DEADPOOL 2 (USA)
Comedy. Four lifelong friends find their lives forever changed after reading 50 Shades of Grey in their book club.
Action. The wisecracking mercenary returns to battle the evil and powerful Cable and other bad guys to save a boy's life.
Upcoming (May 24)
LOVE, SIMON (USA)
SOLO: A STAR WARS STORY (USA)
Drama. A closeted gay teenager is forced to balance the struggles of high school with discovering the identity of the anonymous classmate that he has fallen for online.
Action. Another prequel to the widely-loved Star Wars franchise, this film chronicles Han Solo and Chewbacca’s early adventures before joining the Rebellion, including their encounter with Lando Calrissian.
BACKSTABBING FOR BEGINNERS (CANADA/DENMARK/USA)
Drama. Based on a true story, a young man travels to Iran and exposes the corruption within the United Nation’s “Oil for Food” program.
THE STRANGERS: PREY AT NIGHT (USA)
Horror. Three masked psychopaths make a visit to a family’s secluded mobile home park for the night.
2018
SPECIAL SCREENINGS
Bangkok’s ultimate guide to brunch, coffee,, sweets, and daytime dining
Cinema Diverse 2018
BKK SCREENING AT SIAM SOCIETY
CINEMA DIVERSE 2018
On May 24, from 7pm, the historic Siam Society hosts a screening of The Man Who Built Cambodia, a narrative documentary that follows the life of architect Vann Molyvann, whose work has become a beacon of new identity for Cambodia following its turbulent journey to independence. Following the film, there will be a discussion with the film’s director, Christopher Rompre.
Bangkok Art and Culture Centre presents “Cinema Diverse 2018: The Invisible Hands,” in which 4 international films will be shown bi-monthly from May-Nov, each followed by a talk. The first film screening on May 26, 5pm, will be The Wound (2017), a South African coming-of-age drama surrounding the rural life, culture and initiation rituals of the indigenous Xhosa community, highlighting issues of masculinity, sexuality and community.
The Siam Society, 131 Asoke Montri Road (Sukhumvit Soi 21), 02-661-6470. B200 (free for students).
Coming in June BK Magazine’s guide to the tastest places to start the day in your neighborhood. Don't miss your chance to be seen in BK Cafe Society Call:02-624-9696 or email: advertising@asia-city.co.th
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