BK Magazine 832

Cut up a damn rug.

Bangkok LIVE

Your guide to the live shows you need to know about for the rest of the year.

WHO’S IN CHARGE?

BK EDITORIAL

Managing Director Dietrich Neu

Managing Editor Tyler Roney

Senior Lifestyle Writer Vinita Chumsri

Art Director Wirankan Saiyasombut

GROVE: COCONUTS BRAND STUDIO

Managing Editor Andra Nasrie

Associate Thai Editor Pakvipa Rimdusit

Branded Content Writer Moe Thet War

Senior Project Manager

Sirinart Panyasricharoen

Senior Account Manager Hafiz Rasid

Senior Digital Account Manager Nuttajuk

Kittichailuk

Art Director Tan Kar Liang

Production Manager Komkrit Klinkaeo

Head of Business Development

Elizabeth Chua

Senior Business Development Manager

Piti Rungrojanaluck

Business Development Manager

Chalida Anuwattanawong

Business Development Executives

Joel Chua, Anna Dumont, and Liyana Juhari

Publisher, Printer, and Editor

Tara Rattanaphas

Chairman Byron Perry

General Manager Vim Shanmugam

Head of Operations Clarissa Cortes coconuts.co

Advertise with us advertising@coconuts.co

MEET THE NEIGHBORS

If you’ve been on the Sirat Expressway or ridden by on the airport link at Makkasan, you might have noticed the whopping great LDS Bangkok Thailand Temple taking shape over the last few years. It just opened in September. Mormons have been in Bangkok a long time, so here are some facts about their new building.

The

claims there are more than 23,000 followers in Thailand.

The new building broke ground in 2019 and will be officially dedicated this month.

YOU SAID WHAT?

“I’m gonna go knock on their door for a change ,”

— Instagram user @lukas_podol_ski_ski on the announcement the LDS Mormon church would open to visitors in September.

“Sept 11 is a Monday, Do really think anyone will come out on a Monday?”

— Facebook user Ray Icevdo on Paris Hilton’s visit to Bangkok.

HOT OR NOT

Charter Rewrite

A petition seeking a referendum on a new constitution continued to gain over 200,000 signatures by its deadline, more than the required number needed to present to the Election Commission. The campaign, “Completely write a new one, vote 100%,” was launched after the Election Commission refused to accept the first e-petition which was backed by 53,500 people.

Pop Mart

— Instagram user @go.anto.go on the covering up of the Kru Kai Kaeo statue.

The mega-popular Chinese brand of collectable toys, Pop Mart, opened its first flagship store in Central World late in September, and boy was this a popular opening. Reports indicate over 1,000 people registered to visit the store on its opening day, and photos from the event showed thousands of fans clamoring to get inside. Not so hot: lots of folks got hurt in the chaos and it was absolutely terrible.

The LDS Church originated in the 19th century in the United States and has 17 million members in more than 160 countries.

Teacher Luke

Popular TikTok star Luke Rockwell was accused of sexual relations with a 16-year-old earlier this month. Though the sex was consensual according to both parties, Luke was arrested for absconding with an underage girl without the consent of her parents. Rockwell enjoys minor celebrity in Thailand for his teaching videos with occasional racist content.

Draft

Compulsory military conscription may become voluntary by next year, according to defense minister Sutin Klungsang. Sutin confirmed that there had been talks with military leaders to transition the country to voluntary military conscription by April 2024. With the military becoming optional, Sutin said it is expected they will see a reduction in military personnel by 2027.

“I walked past it yesterday and I couldn’t get to it because of the netting around it I just wanted to see what all the fuss is about ,”

LDS Bangkok Thailand Temple is 4,508 square meters

Behind the temple is a 27,849 square meter church complex.

LDS Church

It is the 1st Mormon temple of its kind in Southeast Asia.

TO TABLE

Vivin Grocery and Bistro opens in its new Thonglor home

Vivin Grocery’s has relocated to Thonglor 13, bidding farewell to the home it held for years in Ekkamai. Now found at Nihomura Mall Thonglor 13 on the 2nd Floor next to the Japan Fresh Wholesale Market, Vivin Grocery and Bistro is renowned for its Thai artisanal cheese, cold cuts, wines, and homemade charcuterie.

They have an ever-expanding selection of organic and gourmet products, including everyday essentials, and homemade treats. Vivin Grocery, founded by Nicolas Vivin and Samantha Proyrungtong in 2013, spent years making its name at farmers’ markets, supplying restaurants, and appearing in malls before going full “grocerant” in Ekkamai.

They closed their Ekkamai location in August and opened this new spot for a soft opening soon after. The space has groceries at the entrance, a marble bar area, and a seating space toward the back, all designed and built by co-owner Nicolas Vivin. They also expanded their Bangkok brand last year to the Asoke crowd with their Vivin Cafe and Bistro.

SPOOKY STATUES

Kru Kai Kaeo statue ordered to be obscured from public view

The Bangkok Metropolitan Authority has said that the statue of Kru Kai Kaeo that has been causing a hullabaloo in August and is slated to be obscured from public view.

The statue began making waves when images of the large statue— with yellow fangs, wings, and red nails—couldn’t make it under a city overpass. Then came the reports that the deity, said to be a teacher of a former king of the Khmer empire, was made up. Then there were rumors that worshipers sacrifice cats and dogs to it.

While the provenance of the deity is still debated, local groups, including the Council of Artists Supporting Buddhism of Thailand, have said the statue needs to be removed, equating it to devil worship.

Statues that are under 10 meters, such as the four-meter Kru Kai Kaeo statue, do not require approval from the BMA, but the people-pleasing governor of Bangkok Chadchart Sittipunt has reached a compromise where worshippers will still be able to see the statue, but commuters won’t be affected.

ON CLOUD 11

The Commons will open a new community space at Cloud 11 in 2024

The huge Cloud 11 shopping complex between Puntawitti and Udom Suk will be the site of a new The Commons project next year.

You know The Commons Saladaeng and The Commons Thonglor—two spaces for reliably good food and community spaces—and now the brand has announced on social media and later at a live event that they will be opening at Cloud 11, as The Commons Cloud 11, in 2024.

The loft-like, open-plan community mall from Varat and Vicharee Vichit-Vadakan in Thonglor and the sister location in Saladaeng have been mainstays of Bangkok’s F&B scene since opening and have seen some of the city’s favorite dining spots moving in and out.

The Commons in both current locations operates as a community space as well as a spot for allday dining and drinking, hosting music, literature, and cultural events throughout the year.

Paris Hilton came to Bangkok to promote her fragrance

From Post Malone to K-pop girl group Twice, Bangkok will host talented celebrities in the world of music and art in the coming months. And Paris Hilton came too.

The hotel heiress and 2000’s “it girl” came to Bangkok on September 11 to promote her new fragrance, Ruby Rush, at Siam Square One’s Eve & Boy beauty store at 4pm.

Retailing for around B2,730 (100ml), this fragrance is part of a larger fragrance tour throughout Asia, and Paris Hilton moved on to Malaysia for the same promotional tour at Sogo Mall in Kuala Lumpur on September 13.

The descendant of the eponymous hotel magnate Conrad Hilton, Paris Hilton got her start in public life as a model at the T Management company owned by real estate tycoon Donald J Trump before starring in the reality show Simple Life with socialite Nicole Ritchie. ●

SHELF

IT GIRL

Cloud 11

Vivin Grocery

Paris Hilton

Tokyo’s No.1 cheesecake shop, Jerome, now open in Bangkok

Do you know about Japan’s favorite cheesecake?

The Paris-born culinary mastermind Jerome Quilbeuf, a former head chef at three-Michelinstarred Sant Pau Barcelona and two-Michelinstarred Sant, has brought his famous Tokyo cheesecake to Thonglor. Jerome Cheesecake opened its first shop-in-shop outside of Japan on Soi Thonglor 13 last month, found within Mont Blanc by Kyo Roll En, a Japanese-style dessert cafe. Nestled in the heart of Ginza, Tokyo, Jerome’s cheesecakes have captured the hearts and taste buds of Tokyo’s foodies. The basque cheesecake craze—featuring a wrapped cheesecake cooked on high heat to caramelize the top—is found here for B250 per slice.

Spy-themed bar opening at the renovated Jim Thompson

The recently renovated Jim Thompson F&B wing has introduced a range of fresh additions to Bangkok’s nightlife and dining scene—The Silk Cafe, Jim’s Terrace, and the new Jim Thompson Restaurant opening very soon. Along with these is the OSS Bar, a bar celebrating the clandestine life of Jim Thompson himself.

Exuding secret service vibes within a cozy second-story venue. The menu, or “Field Manual,” unfolds the story of the business man, designer, and Office of Strategic Services operative Jim Thompson, recounting his life of espionage and adventure—including reviving the Thai silk industry before his mysterious disappearance in 1967. At the helm of OSS Bar is none other than Bangkok’s bartending luminary, Khun Ploy Siriwan Sinpan, renowned for her extraordinary work at Vesper and the Sukhothai Bangkok’s Zuk.

Blendies brings real-deal French ice cream to Siam Square

Here’s a seriously sweet announcement for you. Blendies, a premium French ice cream parlor, made its debut at Siam Square last month. It’s helmed by Thanchoti “Bam” Dolchalaikon, whose 12-year culinary career includes stints at renowned establishments such as the one-Michelin-star bistro Benoit Paris. Now, he is channeling that experience into crafting creamy, chewy, and thick Frenchstyle ice cream, ensuring it doesn’t melt away in a hurry. The main crowd pleaser here is the signature pistachio cone (B219), which sees premium-grade pistachios roasted

over charcoal, crushed, and used to make a generous coating all around the ice cream. Then, the chef finishes it off with a dollop of whipped cream and you have one of the best ice cream desserts you will try in a while. Pro tip: arrive early because this sells out.

Gaze is Thonglor’s new cocktail spot for stargazers

Outside you got smog, light pollution, and rainy season clouds to keep you from the heavens, but inside Gaze Cocktail Bar on Thonglor 10, the stars are out. Gaze Cocktail Bar is a new venue that puts celestial charm front and center—and on the ceiling for that matter. All signature cocktails are myths of constellations, such as the “Once a Year” (B440) based on the Milky Way, meant to mirror the story of princess of the universe and a cowherd who meet once a year; it’s made with gin and fat-washed truffle oil, berry cream, vanilla and rose water. Other signature cocktails include the flowery moon-based “Luna” (B420) with Tanqueray infused lavender leaf, cinzano bianco, lemon, and tonic, as well as the whiskey-forward “Egypt in September” with Monkey Shoulder, sherry, Giffard Abricot Du Roussillon, mango and strawberry covered in a lavender foam. ●

Jim Thompson

Gaze

Jêrome

Bangkok LIVE

Big International Shows

Everyone from Post Malone to Blackpink has made their way to Bangkok this year. Here are the big stadium shows you don’t want to miss through the end of the year.

SAM SMITH

No stranger to controversy, British singer Sam Smith—who is known for hits like “Diamonds,” “Stay With Me,” “Too Good At Goodbyes,” and “I’m Not Here To Make Friends”—will perform in Bangkok as part of the Gloria Tour. The tour is building on the artist’s full album release earlier this year, featuring the “Gimme” with Jessie Reyez and Koffee.

When Oct 3

Where Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani.

How Much B2,800-B7,800

CHARLIE PUTH

The angelic voice of heartthrob American singer-songwriter Charlie Puth will be making its way to Bangkok in August as part of the Asia leg of his “The ‘Charlie’ Live Experience” tour. This will be Charlie Puth’s first Bangkok show since his “Voicenotes” tour in 2018. “The ‘Charlie’ Live Experience” tour kicked off stateside in May, and will come to Asia starting in Hong Kong on Oct 4, followed by Bangkok, Jakarta, Singapore, Tokyo, and Seoul. Charlie Puth dropped his first single “Marvin Gaye” in 2015, followed by his first studio album Nine Track Mind.

When Oct 6

Where Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani. How Much B1,800-6,000

Your guide to the live shows you need to know about for the rest of the year.

Tyler Roney

REX ORANGE COUNTY

REX ORANGE COUNTY

British singer Rex Orange County will bring his unique blend of indie pop and soul to Bangkok at the end of October. The 25-yearold artist’s BKK gig, part of his newly announced “Live in Asia” tour, kicked off in September and marks the singer’s anticipated arrival in Asia, featuring stops in Manila, Hong Kong, Taipei, Jakarta, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Alexander James O’Connor enjoys a large following in Asia with his introspective songwriting and catchy melodies.

When Oct 21

Where Moonstar Studio (Wang Thonglang)

How Much B2,200

TRANSMISSION AND HARDMISSION

After five long years, Transmission Festival returns to Bangkok for a night of world-renowned DJs and visual art, with a lineup that includes Blastoyz, Cosmic Gate, Daxson, Will Atkinson, Xijaro & Pitch, and more. This will be followed the very next day with the first ever Hardmission Festival featuring the likes of D-Block, Code Black, Coone, S-te-fan, Darren Keltek, and a lot more.

When Oct 21-22

Where BITEC Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Center

How Much Transmission, B3,100 (Phase 4)

/ Hardmission B2,700-B5,300

STEVE VAI

This one’s for the guitarists out there. Who says hair bands are dead? “Is this Love,” “Still of the Night,” “Here I go Again,”—Steve Vai has walked

amongst giants. Grab as much hairspray as you can and hit up this October show to see one of the world’s greatest rock guitarists in action.

When Oct 28

Where MCC Hall

How Much B2,500-B15,420

BRING ME THE HORIZON

British metalcore group Bring Me The Horizon will bring their thrashing sounds to Bangkok with special guests I Prevail. The Sheffield band has garnered quite a few hits in their early noughties, such as “This Is What the Edge of Your Seat Was Made For,” and they’re brining their metal into modern day.

When Nov 7

Where Union Hall.

How Much B3,300-B4,300

SAOSIN

After having to cancel their Southeast Asia tour due to COVID-19, Saosin has rescheduled the date for their Bangkok show for November. The California foursome has had hits like “You’re Not Alone” and “Bury Your Head” in the early 2000s, and they’ll be featuring Bangkok’s own Defying Decay as an opener.

When Nov 7

Where MGI Hall

How Much B2,600

MORRISSEY

A man who needs no introduction, the former lead of The Smiths has four decades of hits under his belt, and he’ll be bringing all of them

to Bangkok this November. With a list of hits that never ends, the “40 Years of Morrissey Asia Tour” kicks off in Singapore, followed by Taipei, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Tokyo.

When Nov 17

Where Samyan Mitrtown Hall

How Much B2,000-B3,000

VERY FESTIVAL

Very Festival is a big one and will get the center of Bangkok dancing with British indie pop darlings Prep and K-pop indie duo 92914, and Korean-Canadian R&B songwriter Slchld will play on the first day, and indie rock group Bloc Party and Last Dinosaurs along with American singer Charlie Burg will play on day two.

When Nov 25-26

Where Queen Sirikit National Convention Center’s Ballroom Hall.

How Much B2,500-B5,600

MAHO RASOP FESTIVAL

British punk rock group Idles and Canadian dream pop darlings Alvvays were among the additional bands announced for this year’s Maho Rasop Festival. They were among 16 bands announced by the indie rock fest this weekend for its two-day outing later this year in northern metro Bangkok to also be headlined by post-punk group Interpol. There’s plenty of regional acts too. South Korean collective Balming Tiger and Japanese bands Envy and Otoboke Beaver will perform. Thai bands Soft Pine, Death of Heather, Ford Trio, and The Yers are also on the roster.

When Dec 2-3

Where ESC Park (Rangsit)

How Much B4,490

808 FESTIVAL 2023

This is always a big one. Long known for its world-class EDM artists, 808 Festival returned after Covid in 2022, and they’re coming back for 2023. Little is known about this once-a-year festival just yet, but if past shows are anything to go by, it’s one that’s not to be missed. Last year’s show at Bitec Bangna featured Armin van Buuren, DJ Snake, Hardwell, Zedd, and more.

When Dec 8-10

Where TBA

How Much TBA

Bangkok International Festival of Dance and Music

This will be Bangkok’s 25th International Festival of Dance and Music, and this year will feature some big names and wild shows, from West Side Story to Swan Lake. Get some culture in you.

SWAN LAKE BY LES BALLETS DE MONTE CARLO

Tchaikovsky’s most famous work comes alive with the Les Ballet de Monte Carlo, the tragic love of the Prince and his White Swan. All three acts will take place with Monaco’s national ballet company.

When Sep 30-Oct 1

Where Main Hall, Thailand Cultural Centre

How Much B1,800-B4,500

WEST SIDE STORY

For the theater fans, this is the one. This play will include the original choreography from legendary dancer and director Jerome Robbins and a troupe of American actors, and the set is being shipped from New York to Thailand. Back in the public imagination thanks to Steven Spielberg’s adaptation in 2021, this performance is being held in recognition of the 90th anniversary of ThaiUS relations. While in town, the event will include a student outreach program and voice and dance masterclasses on Oct 3 at International School Bangkok.

When Oct 5-8

Where Main Hall, Thailand Cultural Centre

How Much B1,800-B7,500

GALA PERFORMANCE BY STUTTGART BALLET

With classics from Romeo and Juliet to Don Quixote, the Stuttgart Ballet, which dates back

to 1609, will be putting on an award-winning collection from one of the world’s most well-renowned ballet companies.

When Oct 12

Where Main Hall, Thailand Cultural Centre

How Much B1,800-B5,000

DREAM OF THE RED CHAMBER BY SHANGHAI YUE OPERA

One of the four great classic Chinese novels, Dream of the Red Chamber is an unrivaled literary masterpiece. The Shanghai Yue Opera has made over 400 productions, and this all-female cast will be recreating this tale of love, loyalty, and cruelty for two nights only.

When October 17-18

Where Main Hall, Thailand Cultural Centre

How Much B1,800-B4,000

ANNA KARENINA BY EIFMAN BALLET

For two nights, Tolstoy’s epic tale comes alive with the Eifman Ballet, choreographed by the esteemed Boris Eifman and set to a Tchaikovsky score for a fast-paced ballet about Russian society, duty, and unrequited love with Count Vronsky.

When October 21-22

Where Main Hall, Thailand Cultural Centre

Tickets B1,800-B4,5000

DREAM OF THE RED CHAMBER

WEST SIDE STORY

SWAN LAKE

Live Music Near You

It’s not all about big arenas and pyrotechnics. For some, live music is all about the heart—the local hip-hop, the wild cover bands, the dancing in dark corners. For something truly unique, check out these Bangkok venues for good live music every weekend (and most weekdays).

BLACK CABIN BAR

Hidden behind the grungey brick walls, this is where you will find all the unheard of local talents of Bangkok playing contemporary live music. They showcase music from soul to funk to Brit rock and beyond. And sometimes they host a tribute night to different styles of music, like hits from Y2K–the best of 2000s pop that you had on your WalkMan, or BBC radio hits–stuff like Kings of Leon, Radiohead, or Incubus. To complement the good music, there are always drink promotions.

SPEAKERBOX

For the music lover, Speakerbox eschews pomp but doesn’t sacrifice quality. This is a bar where you can find local favorites and new voices—as well as the occasional overseas act who know that real live music comes raw. You never know what you’re going to get. It can be chill, artistic, or rowdy, but the staff are accommodating and the drinks, like the venue, are uncomplicated and fun. This dive is at the sharp edge of live music in Bangkok.

THE WOODSHED

True to its name, the Woodshed’s ambiance is dark and gloomily potent, a thing to be imbibed more than enjoyed. A few strings of dim fairy lights give the impression of candlelit outdoors, a look completed by the old, and still living, tree that’s smack in the middle of the bar. While there are a million jazz bars in Bangkok, not many of them (or not that we’ve heard of) play New Orleans jazz, but you can find that here every Wed and Thu.

DECOMMUNE

After having moved from Thonglor to Phra Sumen Road, DeCommune got way cooler and more artsy as a space. From hosting music that can’t quite be defined by one genre (from live synthesizer to low-fi soul and beyond) to hosting a chef’s table dinner by rising local chefs. Without DeCommune, we can’t imagine what Bangkok’s local underground scene would be like, so we, and live music fans, are thankful for this space.

THE ROCK PUB

This bar does what it says on the tin. Head here every weekend for your dose of emo, goth, rock covers, and British indie. They host regulars, but they’ve also been known to bring in some international punk acts and local legends like Hard Boy. Get there early and grab a booth unless you want to get stuck at a table by yourself.

FOOJOHN

If all this hip-hop, punk, techno, and rock is a little too mainstream for your liking, Foojohn Jazz Club is the name on Bangkok’s jazz scene. Head upstairs for an intimate, classy vibe at this one-of-a-kind Bangkok live music spot with good drinks and visiting acts. Don’t be fooled by the on-theme, up-scale feel; Foojohn can party.

IMMORTAL BAR

This one’s for all you metalheads out there. If there’s one bar that really grabbed the city’s attention last year, it was Immortal Bar. If there’s a hard rock, metal, punk, or thrasher band coming through Bangkok, this is where you’ll find them. They’ve also been known to pull some heavy metal karaoke and charity events, so keep an eye out for this place.

BROWNSTONE

Brownstone and its cheap drinks is a spot for musicians and music lovers alike. A rare On Nut haven for live shows, Brownstone and its sister custard studio have been known to host some pretty wild shows. This spot is all about the cheap beer, green outdoors, and bleeding edge shows. ●

FOOJOHN

Seenspace gets an ice cream spot that keeps you guessing

Seenspace seems to have it all these days— food, clubs, burlesque, drinks—and now they’ve got a kitschy, fun space for ice cream lovers who never know what they’re looking to try. Guess What—or Guess What!—makes new creative flavors that are meant to keep patrons guessing. The names are in little riddles, like the “Can I Call U Bae.” It’s maple and bacon—yeah, we don’t get it either. So, pop down to the ground floor of Seenspace for a scoop of “Corgi Butts” or “State Before Cookie,” where you’ll also find some favorites like white chocolate strawberry. The flavors are inked on their glass case with some helpful descriptions, so you don’t have to clue out what’s in the “Not Lime” (lemon) or the Green Bottle (soju and jelly).

Indian sweets and snacks from Gaa’s kitchen come to your door with Marigold

Gaa is one of the most important names in Bangkok’s Indian fine dining scene. The Michelin-star restaurant came in at No.5 on BK’s Top Tables 2022, and features some of the most inventive Indian cuisine you’ll find in Thonglor—or for most of the city for that matter. Gaa has launched a new brand bringing fine and surprisingly affordable high-end Indian sweets to your doorstep with Marigold, featuring a wealth of mithai, chaats, and snacks from Chef Garima Arora and the Gaa team. Available for delivery from Line (@marigold.delights) and Grab, these are some seriously elevated but unpretentious Indian bites that go easy on the sweet and heavy on the flavor.

Thonglor gets healthy farm-totable fare with Earth House

The former Earthling Cafe has launched a new venue, Earth House, boasting a large space and a green, stylish spot in Thonglor. The original Earthling Cafe closed its doors in May of this year, with an eye to opening this new space on Sukhumvit Soi 53. Founded by Samantha Häberli, the new space began their soft opening on Aug 13, and maintains the goals of natural, ethical, and local ingredients with little or no processing.Their soft opening menu includes a brunch that’s served until 4pm, featuring favorites like the avocado toast (B298) and a sweet smoothie bowl (B300) with bananas, seasonal fruit, homemade granola, and cacao nibs with shredded coconut. There is also a selection of pastas and salads alongside comfort dishes— including a signature burger (B320).

Marigold

Guess What Earth House

Makkha Health & Spa brings renowned finesse from Chiang Mai to Bangkok

Luxury wellness in the heart of the city

After bringing freshness to Chiang Mai, Makkha Health & Spa has recently opened their first stand-alone branch in Bangkok. The spa, renowned for their exclusive use of organic and wholly natural products that are sourced from top-quality brands suitable for sensitive skin, has on deck masseurs who are certified by the Thai Ministry of Health. And with its lush green surroundings, the Bangkok location provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding cityscape.

It’s the little touches that make Makkha a standout, such as the pre-treatment bael juice and rice crackers, and the post-treatment sticky rice and mango. From classic Thai herbal ball and hot aroma oil massages to their signature Indian head massage, Makkha Health & Spa has got all of your pampering needs covered. All of the essential oils they use in their massages are actually manufactured by the spa itself, and are also completely natural with zero artificial fragrances.

Makkha Health & Spa is located on Sukhumvit 33, and offers a free shuttle service from Phrom Phong BTS directly to the spa. For a truly pampered experience, book yourself into one of their private treatment rooms.

Brought to you by

Can fried chicken be fine dining?

Birdies in Phrom Phong

thinks

so. Everyone’s talking about the new Birdies Hot Chicken above a cannabis shop just off BTS Phrom Phong. They’re marrying the concepts of fried chicken and comfort food with high-end dining in a way no one dreamed. The mind behind this unique spot is Thai-Australian chef Jennifer Evans, winner of My Kitchen Rules 2012 (an Aussie show), who opened this “chicken and champagne” passion project in late July of this year. It’s a mixture of elevated comfort food, creative cocktails, and high-end ingredients. For the koji marinated fried chicken main event (B390), guests can choose tenders, legs, wings, or eggplant for you veggies out there with a choice of three flavors—naked, hot honey, or spicy—and a range of sauces from toum to white Alabama and fermented chili.

Spanish and Japanese come together at new fusion rooftop restaurant

Bangkok’s favorite clubbing street, Sukhumvit Soi 11, is now home to a new Spanish-Japanese fusion restaurant. The new space, Japan-ish, will blend Spanish restaurant elements with upscale izakaya vibes. Headed by Chef Jesus Pascual from the three-Michelin-star restaurant Arzak in Spain, the venue’s menu will feature robata grilling, sushi, sashimi, and large sharing plates. It’s not often you can order a huge plate of jambon de bellota (B920) and a salmon piri sushi roll (B310) at the same space. Guests can expect one-dish fusions like the tsukune moruno (B180), a crosscontinental skewer mashup, with Iberico pork, andalusian spices, and pickles. ●

Birdies

Makkha Health & Spa

PHROM PHONG’S RESTAURANT INT MARRIES THAI DISHES WITH FRENCH GASTRONOMY

The buzz: Any spot adding creativity into Thai food piques our curiosity, and Restaurant Int follows a playbook that’s as French as it is Thai. With Chef Pat-In “Knock” Promsawadi, formerly with Taahra, the fusion here combines the elegant French techniques with Thai ingredients.

The vibe: To get to the panoramic view and the shining open kitchen perched atop the Best Westin Hotel on Sukhumvit 20, diners take a bit of a journey. The restaurant’s interior is a sharp contrast with the roof: dark walls, velvet curtains, and tables hugging the outer walls. In this dark and opulent space, chefs in crisp white aprons work in harmony at the stainless steel kitchen centerpiece.

The food: Restaurant Int offers a 13-course tasting menu known as Chapter One, “Way Back Home” (B3,990). The chefs take Thai staples and elevate them to haute-cuisine for a mouth-walloping taste that’s familiar yet new and unique. The journey begins with the amuse-bouche before moving on to their bread and butter: bread and butter. Inspired by Chef Knock’s personal favorites of fried steamed buns, sweet potato balls, and dumplings, the bread is filled with grounded potatoes and deep-fried for a light crispiness. The butter is, of course, French butter, but folded with a

reduction of sour soy sauce. For the appetizers, the grouper dish pays homage to the beloved khao tom pla (fish soup). Here, the grouper is poached and stuffed with jasmine rice. The broth bursts with natural sweetness and the zing of young ginger. For the mains, the wagyu beef is a deconstructed beef noodle soup. The tenderloin is paired with a kale ravioli and classic beef noodles, served with a red wine jus and an orange chili sauce, giving it an extra kick. Dessert transforms the usual black sticky rice into a cake, with a filling of soft coconut and corn and topped with black sesame ice cream with a delicate perilla seed cracker.

The drinks: When it comes to beverages, Restaurant Int offers an array of top wines sourced from around the world. Their cocktail menu is worth exploring; for a refreshing choice, consider the “I-keaw,” with vodka, apple syrup, basil, and lime. Alternatively, the “I-shy” cocktail features gin, fingerroot, coconut water, and lemon—a blend of sweet and bitter flavors.

Why’d we be back: Currently operating as a long-term pop-up, the restaurant has plans to secure a more permanent residence. With the promise of “Chapter Two” on the horizon, Chef Knock’s track record of experimentation and risk-taking suggests the next chapter of Restaurant Int will be something to watch. ●

Vinita Chumsri

Of the Mexican restaurants trying to elevate the cuisine, none is more talked about than Santaiga, which burst onto the scene last year with its lauded “Mexican omakase” concept. In September, however, the spot delved into a whole new way to try their elevated Mexican fare: a la carte.

The vibe is surprisingly laid back compared to the downstairs kaunta seki-style dining area Santiaga fans know; it’s decked out in dark wood tones and brick-accent walls, overlooked by a bright, fully stocked bar and wine room.

The list of appetizers sets the stage: creative, bold, and stylish. The tlayuda (B850) an Oaxaca dish, is of a type you likely won’t find elsewhere in the city. An hours-long housecooked corn tortilla is piled with chorizo, fresh greens, a piquant cheese, and refried beans. The dish arrives at your table piled high with herbs and you break the brittle corn tortilla with your fork and eat it like a pizza. Importantly, this dish doesn’t forget the kick; this is Mexican food after all.

For something altogether more soothing, we tried the chilorio pork rillette (B350), a sort of confit preparation method that leaves you with a delectable pulled meat feel spread over sourdough bread, all accompanied by a selection of pickles and there’s also a “From the Garden” section for the veggie inclined.

There’s also a taco menu, on which the smoked yellowfin tuna (B320) comes piled high on two tortillas and topped with a sliver

of guac and stripped salsa fresca; the big takeaway from this dish is the smokiness, a shockingly savory pile of meat that’s still somehow refreshing.

Unfortunately, the much talked about barbacoa lamb was not available that day, so we made due with the tocino en salsa tomatillo (B850), which turned out to be the star of the evening. It’s a supple strip of braised pork belly—fatty but melt-in-your-mouth—with tomatillo (a type of husk tomato reminiscent of a potato) ringed in by sunflower sprouts. The chicken in a savory green pipian sauce comes beautifully prepared with crispy skin that sloughs off.

Away from Mauriicio Rosales in the kitchen and at the bar, diners will find an assortment of original, crafted cocktails that more or less stay on theme. The simple Mazgroni (B370) skips the gin for Alpus mezcal, and the Fortune Cookies (B350) is a sweet, easy-todrink cocktail featuring Montelobos Espadin mezcal with a mix of white creme de cacao, butterscotch, and horchata.

Part of Billy Bautista’s Mahatun Plaza resto empire, this is one of perhaps only two venues offering this level of elevated Mexican food in Bangkok. The shine has not come off of the Mexican omakase gimmick, and the a la carte menu provides diners with a way to eat at this spot in a way that’s more casual—even though the flavors are anything but. ●

THANTAWAN MUSIC FEST BRINGS MORE THAN 70 ACTS TO THE CHIANG MAI MOUNTAINS

Bangkok has no shortage of upcoming shows, but our neighbor to the north is putting on quite the shindig in January 2024 with the Thantawan Music and Lifestyle Festival.

Boasting more than 50 DJs and 20 bands from Jan 12-14, the event will see a wide array of acts hit the green hills outside of Chiang Mai for an art and environment forward blowout featuring rock, folk, punk, rap, Thai Molam, indie, funk, and, of course, DJs bringing techno, house, drum and bass, and psy-trance.

With five of the top 100 DJs in the world along with regional talent, the three-day event will also be a space for visual art, dance, and live shows that, unlike a lot of other electronic and rock concerts, will be family friendly. You’ll find dance troupes, circus acts, and fire dancers among the art installations.

Over the three days, the festival will include five different stages and is promising quite the diverse collection of acts at the Lanna Rock Garden in Hang Dong district, which frequent travelers to the area will know for its scenery, swimmable streams, and mountain views.

The area is found around 20 kilometers from the airport and is walking distance to a number of notable hotels and resorts. This event will be taking place during the sunflower festival, so be sure to get out and about for a few selfies.

The full lineup has not yet been announced, but you can rest assured that you may not have to rough it. The event has announced a broad range of VIP options to go with this peace and love fest—including VIP bar privileges, an exclusive dining zone, backstage passes, expresslane access, and merch.

The all-ages concert is set to include a dedicated kids’ zone with clowns, pottery classes, art sessions, kiddie yoga, dance classes, an obstacle course, story time, and more, according to information from the organizer.

With an eye to sustainability, keep an eye out for the solar panels and responsible waste management for this event, held with one eye on sustainability—we only have one planet and no one wants a repeat of Burning Man 2023.

This is an all-weather event—which in Thailand says a lot—so dress to impress but be prepared for battle. Keep an eye on Thantawan Music and Lifestyle Festival social media for the latest in lineup updates.

Tickets for the event can be found on Megatix and are already available for purchase. The site features free camping, and early bird tickets are currently 2,750. VIP tickets are B4,500. ●

Three days, five stages, and more than 50 DJs and 20 bands. Head to the hills for this massive concert in January 2024.

Tyler Roney

LEVEL UP YOUR GIRL DINNER GAME AT THESE 7 LUXE VENUES

If you don’t know about Girl Dinners, it’s all about ignoring the rules and eating what you have to hand. Well, how about kicking it up a notch and getting out of the house? Check out these spots below to get your GD into next gear.

Shoken Bangkok

Say hola to the newest Spanish-inspired restaurant. Picture lamplit tables, velvet chairs, arched mirrors, pilasters, and a room adorned with stacks of Louis Vuitton suitcases for the perfect photo backdrop. In a nutshell, it’s the ideal spot for a girls’ night out. Edible works of art are on the menu. Don’t miss out on their signature truffle toast (B790), their arroz negro paella (B790), and their smoked short ribs sous vide for 24 hours (B890) for a meatier main. As the night unfolds, the space transforms into a club with a DJ and personalized drinks are available with your name on them.

Chenin Natural Wine Bar

Brought to you by the former Asoke Pi Shop team, it’s Chenin Natural Wine Bar. The underground bar exudes a mysterious charm with soft candlelight and lush velvet curtains, setting the stage for an intimate wine and dine evening. Start your evening with foie gras toast (B550) and the scallop potato brown butter

(B520). For those with heartier appetites, try the tender, dry-aged prime rib (B480). The extensive wine list includes a variety of natty wines for every taste.

Bisou

A tasteful transformation of the former Gaggan Annand’s Wet, the French Bisou is a creation from French chef Antoine Daquin and sommelier Theo Lavergne. It’s a romantic, flirtatious Parisian bistro reminiscent of a hiso mansion. Savour French-inspired sharing plates like foie gras and smoked eel-topped french toast (B350) and kavari caviar-topped bisou fried chicken (B350). For lighter fare, indulge in the hamachi ceviche (B790) and the gnocchi (B490) or lobster roll for mains (B1,990), expertly paired with their curated wine list.

Contento

Imagine sitting pretty beneath the lemon trees, with a cocktail in hand in a meticulously designed setting by owner Ou Baholyodhin. Every detail, from ambient lighting to the choice of silverware, reflects European influence. The menu complements this idyllic setting with continental comfort cuisine, offering no-nonsense yet flavorful dishes. Begin with the savory chicken liver (B320) or the baked clams (B260) for seafood lovers. For mains, the signature hand-rolled pasta amatriciana (B420) is a must-try, or indulge in the succulent beef cheek paired with parmesan mash (B720).

Vaso - Spanish Tapas Bar

From former award-winning El Willy Shanghai and La Terreza del Casino Madrid, Vaso is your secret weekend vibe, even on Thursday. Drawing on his hospitality experiences and inspired by the energy of Spain, Chef El Palanca creates fine dining that emphasizes the experience. The menu combines traditional Spanish cooking techniques with Asian

influences. Kick off with Vaso’s tapas, featuring delicacies like caviar con jamon (B599) or el vaso de erizo de mar (B1,190). Be sure to not miss la tortilla el chorizo (B590), and you simply must experience their paella offerings. Prepare to be surprised when complimentary shots flow generously from the bar, encouraging spontaneous dancing—maybe even to the tune of the macarena.

Aesop’s

Step into John Gamvros’s spot and immerse yourself in the buzz. It’s Thailand’s only Michelin-listed Greek restaurant, a next-gen revival of a cherished family-run Sydney establishment. Here, enjoy Greek classics like flaming cheese saganaki (B550), the gyros plate (B500), and slow-roasted lamb shoulder ‘kleftiko’ (B1,450). Their Greek hospitality, homey and down to earth, an atmosphere that fosters a a spirit where customers can let loose. Smash a plate, dance on chairs, and sing; it’s all encouraged. Missing Europe summer? This will cure your FOMO. The 16th of September will be Aesop’s last day at their Saladaeng location, and they will reopen on the 1st of October at Aesop’s Rooftop at Level 25, Column Tower, Sukhumvit 16.

Fatboy Izakaya

In the former Wine Bibber Sangria Spot, this unique venue boasts two floors of artistry. Immersed in Japanese kitsch, the walls are adorned with manga and colourful artwork, adding to the visual feast. You don’t leave this dinner spot sober. The ambience encourages a refreshing Sapporo or a crafted cocktail. The food is even better. Must try delights include the crispy shisamo with spicy dipping (B180), ramen cacio e pepe okaka sweet soy (B280), wagyu fat garlic fried rice (B240). For sushi enthusiasts, the fatboy roll (B650) is a go-to choice. ●

Vinita Chumsri

Bisou Chenin Vaso

Fatboy Izakaya

BAR US BLURS THE LINE BETWEEN FOOD AND DRINKS

The rising trend of savory cocktails is very evident here.

The buzz: From the team behind Messenger Service Bar in Suan Luang, Bar Us is at the forefront of a shift in the city’s cocktail scene towards savory drinks. Nestled in Sukhumvit 26, the venue draws inspiration from fine-dining restaurants by following a multi-course concept similar to a lot of tasting menus you see around town: starters, mains, and desserts.

The vibe: Owners Taln Sudarat Rojanavanich and Aum Veerach Sawaengsupt, both former interior designers, have transformed the space into a modern-day booze laboratory, which they call the “drinking room.” The back wall is adorned with an arrangement of shelves displaying dried flowers, herbs, and spices in clear containers that make them look like specimens. Dark wooden tables and strategically placed spotlights accentuate the dimly lit room. It all comes together for a sophisticated yet intimate setting.

The drinks: The menu is divided into courses: starters, mains, and desserts. There is also an all-night section for people interested in good old classic cocktails. The starters are refreshing and light, like “mango + marigold + turmeric root” (B460) with pepper and citrus undertones. Meanwhile, the “chicken stock + bitter gourd” (B460) combines distilled bitter gourd in Haku vodka with shiitake mushrooms, creating a pure, smooth umami taste that feels like both a drink and a salty snack in one. The mains are savory and more intense, like the “fish soup” (B480) with a spicy and sour kick

from Haku vodka yuzushu and jalapenos. The “beef + onion” (B480) is arguably the most surprising of the lot. The drink is completely clarified with no discernible color but strong savory flavors. Here, they infuse beef jerky with Ketel One, creating an earthy, meaty tang balanced against fragrant jalapenos. The best way to describe it would be like drinking a cheeseburger. The dessert cocktails taste cleaner and more aromatic. The “pandan + jackfruit” (B460) with nutty and vanilla notes to compliment the jackfruit’s sweet undertones. For an off-the-menu surprise, order the “fermented peach + young mango” or the “blackberry + jasmine flower.” It’s obvious that a huge amount of prep goes on behind the scenes. The mixologists here employ a range of techniques, including infusion, distillation, and sous vide in their preparation.

Why’d we come back: There’s something exciting about drinking a cocktail and it tasting like food on a plate that gives you a buzz instead of a full stomach. The menu here changes every four to five months, and they’ll give you a sneak peek if you ask for off-the-menu drinks. The concept and experience here are far beyond what we’ve come to expect at a traditional bar—and worth repeat visits.

1 Soi Sukhumvit 26, 089-500-1656. Open daily SunThu 6pm-12am; Fri-Sat 6pm-1am ●

Vinita Chumsri

Bangkok gets a new spot for retro car and motorcycle lovers

If you know Smiths Vintage, you’ll know they do everything cool for classic bikers—or if you just like vintage gear. Earlier last month, they opened up the Smiths Motors Company featuring a community space for a new generation of bikers and car lovers.

Found in Ladprao on Soi Sukanthasawat, it’s not just a place to check out classic cars and bikes. The space, inspired by a 50s-style Los Angeles-style gas station, has a range of rare and vintage bikes and cars to check out, but they’re also bringing a community atmosphere with dining options and an event space.

The Hope Cafe is very much in the Smiths Vintage style, featuring an array of comfort food options, including pizza, wagyu burgers, and coffee and smoothies. The other is a coming Sunyo Izakaya with Japanese and Northeastern cuisine and a The Smiths Bar—hey, don’t drink and drive.

Elevate your style with Loro Piana’s debut in Bangkok this October

Fashionistas and capsule wardrobe fans take notice: Siam Paragon tells BK Magazine the first Loro Piana store will have officially opened its doors at Siam Paragon (G/F) by the time you read this, so fashion connoisseurs can look forward to the hyper-luxury essence of this Italian brand.

The garments from this 99-year-old style are famous for their craftsmanship as well as their profile—dubbed by GQ as the “Uniqlo for billionaires.” If you want to dress like Kendall Roy from HBO’s billionaire drama Succession, you dress in Loro Piana.

With over six generations of expertise, the brand is known for using the world’s finest and rarest raw materials such as vicuna wool, known for its softness and feather-light texture, made from a species of camelid native to the Andes Mountains shorn only every two years.

Coupled with Mongolian cashmere and Chinese silk, Loro Piana, which started out in northern Italy in 1924, uses hand-stitching and traditional techniques that have made it the digs of the hi-so fashionable and the jetset.

Surrealist Henn Kim’s endearing but somehow bleak illustrations take new form with a collaboration with Charles and Keith’s Monochromatic line, available earlier last month.

The “Heart Is Every Wear” designs will feature four pieces, including a gothy thick-soled boot and a bag with the line’s signature illustrated (and somewhat anatomically correct) heart.

The artist’s illustrations are in simple black and white, and this

fashion line with the premier outlet Charles and Keith takes a dark turn, with jet black and white designs evincing the artist’s punishingly emotional style.

Henn Kimm’s surreal works deal in themes of technology, abandonment, and jarring juxtapositions, and she has become something of an art icon on social media, particularly on Instagram where whe boasts more than 800,000 followers. ●

Fashion gets goth as Charles and Keith’s collab with surrealist Henn Kim hits Thailand