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Bless the rains NO. 765 JUNE 28, 2019. www.bkmagazine.com
UNSUNG
STREET-FOOD HEROES Meet the Jay Fais you've never heard of
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Who's in charge? Managing Director & Publisher Andrew Hiransomboon
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Managing Editor Oliver Irvine Digital Director / Deputy Editor Carl Dixon Sub-Editor Angela Symons Senior Digital Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Digital Content Coordinator Pakchira Bunphol Junior Digital Content Coordinator Kawee Jarach Writers Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj, Dhipkawee Sriyananda Selley, Kankanok Wichiantanon
Unsung street-food heroes
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Junior Videographers Jaruwan Suwandee, Tham Rodjananaudomvutigul Advertising Director Wanida Akeapichai Sales Managers Tipkritta Chiraporncharas, Orajira Sukkasem Senior Sales Associates Tassanee Mahamad, Nattaya Bovornsettanon, Orakarn Laohakanjanasiri Sales Associate Parinda Dermsripoom
Thai powerlifters competed in the world championships
ASIA CITY STUDIO Managing Editor Dietrich Neu Associate Editor Sureepak Janyapat Event Projects Manager Chayanap Tongdadas Project Coordinator Sirinart Panyasricharoen Junior Project Coordinator Sawanya Chantarakana Senior Developers Prawee Wiangin, Wasan Wangrach Developer Nopanun Laochunanun Branded Content Writer Chakariya Cheewatara SOIMILK Editor Nathapong Suppavatee Senior Writer Rujiyatorn Choksiriwan Writers Atiwat Uton, Sarin Songkriengkrai Junior Graphic Designer Wathinee Srithongchuai Brand Manager Onwara Sittirug Sales Associates Palita Nueangnit, Prawpraew Pairohg, Kornkanok Sriwaranant Finance Manager Supaporn Bangmoung
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Flavor of the south
Nan Bei
Beat the heat
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BK “Asia City Living” Magazine is edited by Andrew Hiransomboon and published 24 times a year, twice a month by Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Copyright ©2019 Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. The titles “BK Magazine,” “BK ‘Asia City Living’ Magazine” and their associated logos or devices, and the content of BK “Asia City Living” Magazine are the property of Asia City (Thailand) Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited. Article reprints are available for B50 each. The magazine may not be distributed without the express written consent of Asia City Media Group (Thailand) Ltd. Contact the Advertising Department for ad rates and specifications. All advertising must comply with the Publisher’s terms of business, copies of which are available upon request. Printed by Comform Co.,Ltd. 212 Moo 13 Krungthepkreetha Rd., Saphansoong, Bangkok 10250
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HOT OR NOT
CANADIAN DOUGHNUTS
These Thai powerlifters just competed in the world championships
If you’re not wildly excited about Tim Hortons coming to Bangkok, then clearly you’re not Canadian. Neither are we, but here’s what we can gather: 1) It sells doughnuts; 2) It sells eggy breakfasts; 3) It sells doughnuts stuffed with eggy breakfasts; 4) When they launched in China, they had salted egg yolk specials. We’re beginning to understand the hype.
INTERVIEW
In early June, three young Thai powerlifters flew to Sweden to compete in the IPS World Classic Championships alongside more than 1,000 athletes. Worathida “Paan” Theopanich, 22, won bronze for best overall in the junior U43 weight class, while Wongsatorn “Job” Angchaibunsrisuk, 22, landed ninth best in the junior U74 class. Phuripat “Pad” Yimerhthi, 19, competed in the most-competitive weight class, U84.
THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID
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How did you get into powerlifting? Job: I was bodybuilding but started to get bored. Then I gave powerlifting a go and it was fun so I stuck with it. I’ve been doing it for 3-4 years now. Pad: I just wanted to get lean. I was also into bodybuilding at first, too. Then I met John Gustova [the team’s sponsor and chairperson] who saw my legs and thought they looked strong, so he asked if he could train me. Paan: I was a sport-science student and went to the gym regularly. I went to check out a competition in October and there was a booth for people to try out for fun. I lifted the 60kg deadlift quite breezily. John approached me and I’ve been doing it since. How did you do in the competition? Job: I competed in the Under 74kg Junior category and landed ninth best in bench at 142.5kg. My squat was 177.5kg and deadlift 217.5kg. Paan: My squat was 87.5kg and was third best in the world. I bench at 47.5kg and deadlift at 127.5kg—that was second best in the world. Overall I landed third best in the world for Under 43kg Juniors. Pad: My squat is 227.5kg, bench 117.5kg and deadlift 222.5kg. I competed in the Under 83kg Junior. It’s the most competitive weight class. I didn’t win anything [laughs].
How was your experience competing globally? Job: I did better than I expected because I injured my hamstrings months before the competition. Paan: It was very fun, but I wanted to do better—I could do more when I was training.
CARTOON LUK KREUNG Ann Boonchuy is the half-Thai-half-American cartoon star of Disney’s latest cartoon, Amphibia, and Thailand’s mad about it. According to the local Twittersphere, Ann doesn’t look anywhere near white enough to be half Thai. Have Disney never met Mario? Or Chompoo? Or Hugo? If so, they’d realize Thais in films should look somewhere between Koreans and Germans, and definitely under no circumstances like Thais.
Why do you think powerlifting isn’t more popular in Thailand? Paan: I think people think it’s dangerous. Pad: Especially with girls, they are afraid to get bulky, which is impossible, I mean, look at Paan. As a woman, what has powerlifting taught you? Paan: It’s really fun. I set myself goals, then I just keep training hard to try and achieve them. What techniques have you learned from powerlifting that you could use in real life? Pad: Patience is key. Nothing comes easily, everything takes time. Job: I’ve learned to overcome my own ability. I try to be better every day. Paan: Never give up, always keep trying. Any advice for aspiring powerlifters? Pad: Just give it a go, see what you can do, but start light—don’t injure yourself. Paan: Just try. It’s not really as scary as it seems.
How often do you train?
Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj
Paan: I train five days a week, rotating on form, not all of them in one day. Pad: I train four days a week, squatting three days. Job: I train four days, with form rotations as well.
Try out a free class with national team coaches at Thai Powerlifting Federation (4/F, Ascott Sathorn) every Wed, 6pm. Sign up via www.thaipowerliftingfederation.com. 061-994-0249
PLAGIARISM Dear Masala Magazine, we know we make awesome content. It takes effort but feels rewarding. You should try it sometime. It sure beats taking other people’s content, cropping the watermarks and claiming it as your own. We’re sure our friends at the BBC and Bloomberg (and whoever else you’re stealing from) agree. Yours, BK.
MRT BATHROOMS Good news: The MRT has installed public bathrooms at many of its stations. Bad news: they’re not going to tell you where they’ve put them—not unless you ask a member of staff, as it discreetly tells you on a sign by the ticket counter. The era of white-knuckled tourists making their way back from Yaowarat to their hotels continues.
by Kathy MacLeod (IG: @kathy_macleod)
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Netflix’s recent special on Supinya “Jay Fai” Junsuta has brought unprecedented international attention to Bangkok street food. Here, we meet up with the hard-working families behind some of this city’s other curbside institutions to hear their stories. By Kankanok Wichiantanon
Finding good khao soi in Bangkok can sometimes feel like mission impossible, but this hole in the wall hidden down a tiny Dusit alleyway is the holy grail. Over the course of 40 years, the owner couple, Chalor and Sasithorn Phongphiboon, have nailed the northern specialty with their perfectly chewy egg noodles and rich broth. Choose between tender chicken, braised beef, succulent pork or spare ribs. We’re also in love with their stir-fried basil with juicy beef shank and deliciously dense panang.
develop my own recipe. I quit my job, rented a space in an old building and got to work.” What obstacles have you faced over the years? Chalor: We never really have big problems, we take things very easy. When you’re as old as we are, you don’t choose to spend time being upset or stressed over anything. Sure, the rent is high—we used to pay B3,000/month 40 years ago, now we’re paying B12,000, and we only charge B45-B50 a plate! Our kids also make it very clear that they don’t want to take over the business, and I get that. Not everyone wants to wake up every day at 3am to prepare food. So if one day, me and my wife are gone, then that will be it for this place. But what are you gonna do, right? We’re old. We’re done with thinking too much about this sort of thing. Now we just let everything be.
“WHEN ME AND MY WIFE ARE GONE, THAT WILL BE IT FOR THIS PLACE”
How did it all start? Chalor: My family has been in the restaurant business since 1955. I grew up helping my grandmother at our first restaurant near Suan Luang—she’d call me her sous chef. When I graduated from university, I worked in a bank for a while but cooking remained my hobby. I took a short break to travel around northern Thailand, where I got the chance to try khao soi. I wasn’t at all into it, I thought the flavor was too bland and the toppings weren’t great. Then, the idea came to me, I could totally turn this into something better, so I came back home and started to
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328/10 Sukhothai Soi 5, 02-668-4497. Open Mon-Sat 7am-2:30pm.
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This small noodle establishment on Soi Convent is one of the best places in town for dried noodles with luk chin krae (Hakka-style fish balls). It’s a family business, run by Boonyada Ammaranon, her son, Pakkapon Ammaranon and daughter, Menpa “Sai” Phrobnakornpongsakul. They follow their Hakka grandfather’s recipes, but with an added twist of flavorful tom yum condiments. Their crispy pork belly and char siu (Chinese barbecued pork) served with savory-sweet gravy and rice are also not to be missed.
packed from 11am and sold out by 2pm. One day, a guy with a camera came in to eat, I didn’t know who he was and treated him like any other customer. Then another customer whispered to me, “Hey, this guy is really famous on Youtube!” After that day, lots of foreigners started to show up, many Uber cars would park at the front. We were really surprised, thinking “wow, people are really making an effort to come try our food!” We’ve been doing pretty good for the last decade. We’re not wealthy, but at least we now have stable finances and a house to call our own.
“THERE WAS NO ONE ON THIS STREET OFFERING WHAT WE SOLD”
How did it all start? Sai: We started from less than zero. I remember our family not having anything—no home, no car. It was 27 years ago that my mom decided to start a small food stall offering just moo daeng and moo krob, served with this thick, delicious gravy. I would come home from school and help out. It wasn’t until 10 years later that we added noodles to the menu; it got really popular because there was no one on this street offering what we sold— the office workers loved it because you got a huge portion with so many toppings and condiments for just B40-60. We’d be
What obstacles have you faced? Sai: We don’t face many troubles— we’re very happy folk, so we ease into our problems, rather than getting stressed over them. But if you ask what bugs us most, I’d say the weather. During the rainy season, the street gets flooded easily, things get messy and no one wants to go out for food. But that’s pretty much it. 5 Convent Rd., 089-775-2244. Open Tue-Sun 7am-2pm.
Mouthwatering curries line the front of Waristha “Roen” Maingarm and Wannapa “Pang” Rakkeo’s Pan Road khao gaeng joint. Their lusciously rich massaman with chunks of succulent, simmered pork is the ultimate cure-all, while the naam prik lohng reua (ground pork and cured egg yolk fried with chili and shrimp paste relish) strikes that balance between sweet, salty, spicy and sour. Their fermented rice flour noodles with nam-yaa and nam prik are also musts. How did it all start? Roen: I was adopted into Pang’s family long before she was born. My adoptive father was a politician and also a very generous man. He built this big alms-canteen right next to our home, welcoming people to have cooked meals for free. I helped my mom cook and she taught me all her little tricks and tips.
trying to be gimmicky, we just didn’t have the money to buy modern tools like stainless steel or electric stoves, but people were drawn in by the raw, rustic atmosphere and traditional cooking. On the first day we opened, the place was packed. Since we opened 21 years ago, the price has not changed [B35/plate], though now we’re paying seven-percent tax on every plate. Plus, we take care of our staff very well, they all live in the house and their expenses are covered by us, including social security. When we started, our staff got paid about B4,000 a month, while me and Roen only got B2,000 each—so, we hardly made enough to survive. We aren’t making much profit today still, but we’re able to maintain stable finances, which is more than good enough. Our staff love us and they have been with us for the whole 21 years.
“THE PRICE HAS NOT CHANGED IN 21 YEARS”
Pang: I was one of the family’s grandchildren and grew up eating food cooked by Roen. When my parents moved to India for work, Roen joined us. Once we got back, I started working in hospitality and Roen worked for Central’s franchise restaurant, The Terrace. Roen: During the economic crash of 1997, many people were laid off and my income was hugely reduced, so I had to quit. At the same time, Pang went through a divorce and also had quit her job, so we decided to start our own business with very little budget. What obstacles have you faced? Pang: With our small budget, the building we ended up with was shabby and quite damaged—all we could do was to keep everything as clean as we could. We used clay pots and charcoal grills; we weren’t
Roen: Our whole life, food was cooked to share and for charitable purposes—we didn’t know how to make a profit. Because we were taught to cook for merit, the ingredients had always been good quality with nothing artificial, so we got everything fresh from the market, even when the price of limes rose from B20-40/ kg to B100 during the dry season. So, we didn’t make much money; what we earned was barely enough to cover our expenses. Later on, we started to get calls from customers living in the other end of town asking if we can deliver dinner to their homes. We had to stop doing that recently because the traffic was so bad, plus I’ve got a back problem and wanted to focus on what we’re doing at the actual diner. 4 Pan Rd., 02-635-2365. Open daily 9am6pm.
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For 40 years, Nattapong Kaweenanthawong and his family have been simmering the same beef soup. Every evening, the “starter” stock gets refrigerated before being reheated the next morning with fresh seasoning and spices. Originally founded more than 60 years ago, this beef noodle specialist has now passed down three generations, but Nattapong says the old family recipe remains exactly as when his grandpa started the shop. The B100 bowls attract all walks of Bangkok life, from Sukhumvit socialites to taxi drivers and tourists. How did it all start? My grandfather was a big meat-lover and he always loved to cook. He came up with this recipe of braised beef using different Chinese herbs and spices and it turned out great! So, he thought about selling the soup. With no house of his own, he rented a building in the Yommarat neighborhood and the noodle shop was very well-loved. A long time later, in 1973, my grandpa’s sister bought a building in Ekkamai—back then, everything in this area was still jungle—and my grandfather asked to move his business here with her. Later, she sold the building to him and we’ve been here ever since. I grew up here, always helping out around the shop. We’ve never had many staff. In fact, most of us are family members. So we learned to run
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a small business from a very young age. Plus, my grandfather never wrote the recipe down—we know how to make the soup purely from watching him make it over and over for years and years. Right now, I’m the third generation taking over the business from my dad, who still comes to the shop almost every day to do a taste check to ensure the flavor is as it’s supposed to be [laughs]. Despite being a very small shop, we take our business very seriously. What obstacles have you faced? Because we’re such a small business, everything is on a small scale. Our work system isn’t anything complex. Never have we thought about expanding our business, so there’s really nothing to be stressed over or to fix. What we want is for the place to remain a family business, where our family can work together and to keep my grandfather’s recipe alive, serving exactly what he served decades ago with no twist in flavor. Well, having said that, actually, the only thing that can be considered as a problem is that we often run out of food very fast, which upsets customers who have traveled very far to try our beef noodles.
“MY GRANDFATHER NEVER WROTE THE RECIPE DOWN—WE KNOW HOW TO MAKE THE SOUP PURELY FROM WATCHING HIM”
From a Nanglinchee shophouse, southern transplant Alex Sutcharit ladles heavily spiced curries onto GMO-free jasberry rice, made using his mother’s hand-pounded curry pastes. The Suhring twins have even called it their favorite khao gaeng in the city, which—having tried their mouth-watering gaeng lueang (spicy soup with fish and turmeric) and pungent kua kling (stir-fried minced pork)—we totally get. You’ll also find pla thod kamin (fried fish with turmeric), stir-fried sator beans with shrimp and kanom jeen nam ya poo (rice vermicelli with crab curry).
336 Ekkamai Soi 18, 02-391-7264. Open daily 10am-8pm.
fade away. So I asked my mom to teach me her recipes. My wife was already a great cook, so she was able to follow the cooking steps very quickly. We started off with a small counter across from the coffee bar selling my mom’s food. Our regular coffee customers saw that we also offered food, so they’d order it at the same time. From that, the word spread and a lot of people would come to the coffee shop mainly to get our food. Just under a year ago, we moved to a new bigger outlet, which allowed us to offer a wider menu.
“IF ONE DAY MY MOM. WAS TO PASS AWAY, TOO, ALL THESE OLD, TRADITIONAL RECIPES WOULD FADE AWAY”
How did it all start? Alex: When I graduated from university in America, I came home to start a small business consultant company. My friend and I started a coffee shop on the side, it was doing really well and we expanded to a second branch. During that time, my grandmother from Trang passed away. My memories of her and mom always cooking southern comforts for me and my siblings got me thinking—if one day my mom was to pass away, too, all these old, traditional recipes would
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What obstacles have you faced? Alex: We’re lucky that we never had any financial problems. Because I studied business in school, I had the knowledge—I just had to adjust what I knew to fit with the small scale of what we're doing. We have quite a solid system for managing the money we’ve earned; a part of it is always reserved for future expansion. By that method, we were able to move to our new spot and increase the size of our business. 43 Nanglinchee Rd., 089-900-3890. Open daily 5:30am-2pm.
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hit list | 22 new reasons to love bangkok
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Get the quiet luxury home look at this L.A. studio’s renovated store
DECOR
After months of renovation, the Los Angeles-hailing furniture brand Barbara Barry is now back with a beautiful showroom and a sophisticated collection of home furnishings to match. While fans can expect to indulge in Barry’s signature elegant pieces, the showroom also carries new items sourced exclusively by the renowned designer herself—think fine Italian bed linens, luxurious cashmere throws, soft Marshmallow Gauze loungewear from Japan, and luminous candle holders and vases from Barry’s collab collection with Swarovski. Dreamy. 3/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-1294577. Open daily 10am-7pm
NUMEROLOGY
Don’t miss these end-of-season sales
Victoria’s Secret Date: Now-Jun 30 Up to 50% off perfumes Up to 40% off T-shirts and other apparel Up to 30% off bras and pajamas Anello Date: Now-Jun 30 Up to 50% off selected backpacks, including Anello Matte Rubber, Anello Heat-Tone, Anello Water Resistant, Anello Legato Largo, Anello Crossbody, Anello Mini Drum Bag Casio Date: Now-Jun 30 Up to 60% off brands, including G-Shock, Baby-G, Edifice, Protrek, Sheen O&B Date: Now until stocks run out Up to 30% off selected shoes, including Audrey Fruitti, Audrey Tweed, Audrey Antoinette, Audrey Eden Up to 20% off selected shoes, including Audrey Soft Ballerina, Audrey Comfy, Audrey Wedge, Audrey Formal
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CO-WORKING
SHOPPING
WATCHES
02 American co-working
giant arrives in Thonglor
03 Stock up on supplies at
this indie stationery store
04 This timepiece
After its arrival last year in Chong Nonsi, New Yorkborn co-working brand WeWork has spread to Thonglor. Spanning seven floors, the new opening comes filled with Instagram-worthy corners—airy conference rooms, mid-century furniture in dusty pink and earthy hues, vibrant carpets, potted plants and colorful artwork. Plug into work at shared hot desks (B8,000/month), dedicated desks (B9,600/month) and private offices (B16,000/month). In addition, there are dedicated conference rooms equipped with AV gear, around-the-clock cleaning services and soundproof phone booths. Free coffee and juice provide the rocket fuel. T-One Bldg., Sukhumvit Soi 40, 02-508-8972. Open Mon-Fri 9am-6pm
Calling all stationery geeks—cult online retailer Studio 360 has opened its first physical store and it’s bound to fulfill all your design needs. Expect carefully crafted and functional products, from charming notebooks to dozens of high-quality pens and pencils. Biro pens and Staedtler pencils? Yawn. Star picks include Germany’s Kaweco fountain pens (from B775-5,500) and Taiwan’s Y Studio brass sketching pencils (B3,555), while other services include personalized pen engraving and build-yourown pen with materials provided by the store. 5/F, CentralWorld, Rama 1 Rd., 094-787-9692. Open daily 10am-9pm
What: Swatch x A Bathing Ape Collection Price: B4,950 Why? When one of the world’s most iconic streetwear brands teams up with a legendary watchmaker, you know it’s going to be special. Swatch and BAPE have released six striking limited-edition “Big Bold” watches dedicated to five of the world’s biggest capitals and one “Global” edition, each emblazoned with BAPE’s signature camo motifs. The London, Paris, New York and Tokyo editions are limited to 1993 pieces, while the Bern city watch is limited to 983 pieces, a nod to the year each brand was founded. Swatch flagship store, 1/F, CentralWorld, 02-613-1472. Open daily 10am-10pm.
Shop Talk How to spend your hardearned baht.
celebrates diversity in style
BUY IT
BIN IT
MUJI WATER REPELLENT BACKPACK A versatile everyday backpack to keep your valuables safe and dry this rainy season (B690).
CHEAP CONVENIENCESTORE UMBRELLAS Invest in a sturdy umbrella instead of ones that will get beaten and broken in mere seconds.
BARGAIN “SO PAMPERING” PROMOTION AT SO SPA Indulge in an hour-long aromatherapy facial massage at So Spa, So Sofitel for B3,500 (down from B6,700).The promotion runs from Jul 1-Sep 30.
6/21/19 5:04 PM
hit list | calendar
BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JUNE 28 2019
NIGHTLIFE
This festival’s 21st year promises drag ballet and more
DEAN DIXON Chill out on Thonglor with Australian tech house music. Jun 28, 9pm. Beam, 1/F, 72 Courtyard, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 02-392-7750. Free. SUKHUMVIT SPACE PROGRAM A night of underground house and techno music from DJs Moodymanc, The Outsider and Seelie. Jun 28, 9:30 pm. Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 086-614-3355. B400, includes one drink. JASPER JAMES The Scottish heavyweight house DJ returns to Bangkok, with special guests Maarten Goetheer, Mud and Bunnyman. Jun 29, 9pm. Beam, 1/F, 72 Courtyard, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 02-392-7750. B300-500, includes one drink. QUIZ NIGHT Show off your general knowledge to win vouchers worth up to B1,000. Jul 1, 8pm. Wishbeer Home Bar, 1491 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-392-1403. Free.
DANCE
PEKING OPERA, DAN BURI, ERNEST KALININ, MISHA NEO, OPTIKZ A night of deep house and melodic techno, with a free bar from 9-10pm. Jul 6, 9pm. Mustache, 544/5 Ratchadaphisek Soi 7, 081-844-7080. Free before midnight/B300 after.
Bangkok’s International Festival of Dance and Music is returning from Sep 11-Oct 23, beginning with a performance of Puccini’s classical opera Turandot by Russia’s Golden Mask Award-winning Ekaterinburg Opera Theatre. On Oct 5-6, Chinese pop singer Li Yugang—known for his cross-dressing performances—will bring his dance drama, Lady Zhaojun, overseas for the first time after its Beijing debut in April. You can also expect performances of Esmerelda by the renowned Kremlin Ballet and an on-ice rendition of Swan Lake by the UK’s Imperial Ice Stars, as well as shows from New York’s famed all-male drag ballet, Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo. Tickets are now available on Thaiticketmajor at B1,20012,000. See www.bangkokfestivals.com for full line-up.
Cr. Olga Kerelyuk
05
NIGHTLIFE
CONCERT
06 Kolour is bringing festival vibes to the city center
07 American rapper Wiz Khalifa to make Bangkok debut
If you’re pining for house and techno tunes by the lake, then here’s some good news: Kolour is back on Jul 6 with Kolour in the Park - Reunion 2019. This time, you won’t have to trek outside the city to relive your festival memories as the event is taking place at EmQuartier’s tropical Escape bar. Though the line-up is yet to be announced, you can expect a mix of disco, funk, house and techno tunes, with open-air cityscape views as a backdrop. Tickets are B490-750 via Eventpop, which includes two free bottles of Singha before 5:30pm. Escape, 5/F, The EmQuartier, 693, 695 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-258-6515
The American rapper, singer and songwriter Wiz Khalifa has announced that he’ll perform at CentralWorld’s GMM LIVE House on Sep 11, with support from Thai rappers Twopee Southside and Maiyarap x Ben Bizzy, before heading to Phuket’s megaclub, Illuzion, on Sep 12. Wiz Khalifa is perhaps best known for his six-times platinum certified single “Black and Yellow” (2010), though he’s also rolled out smash hits like “Young, Wild and Free” and “See You Again” feat. Charlie Puth— the latter of which featured on the Furious 7 (2015) soundtrack, earning itself multiple Grammy and Golden Globe nominations, as well as ten-times platinum status. B2,500 via Eventpop.
Kolour In The Park
Wiz Khalifa
FILM
DON’T MISS THESE UPCOMING FILM FESTIVALS
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GERMAN FILM WEEK 2019 Back for yet another year from Jul 8-14, this German-speaking film festival is packed with award-winning flicks, from Der Junge muss an die frische Luft (All About Me)—an adaption of comedian Hape Kerkeling’s autobiography—to Gundermann, the real life story of East German singer and writer Gerhard Gundermann, which won six golds at the German Film Awards 2019. The festival will take place in eight different venues around town, with tickets priced at B100, except at Goethe-Institut which will be free. For full details, visit www.goethe.de/thailand.
LGBT+ FILM FESTIVAL 2019 Rounding off pride month, this festival at Bangkok Screening Room will celebrate diversity through a series of films, talks, performances and art, with a focus on LGBT+ issues. Screenings include the US documentary on a notorious fashion illustrator, Antonio Lopez 1970: Sex Fashion & Disco (2018), the Israeli documentary about a transgender woman, Family in Transition (2018), among many others. For full line-up, visit www.bkksr.com. Jul 2-7, 1/3-7 Sala Daeng Soi 1, 090-906-3888. Tickets B300. Family in Transition
FEVER TOURS 2019 The Tokyo-based live house Fever will bring a lineup of Japanese rock bands, including Mouse on the Keys, and Thai artists like Zweed n ‘Roll. Jul 6, 7pm. De Commune, 1/F, Liberty Plaza, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 088-419-7380. B600-800. AMBAR POOL PARTY Beat the heat with a party by the pool, featuring lively beats and fruit punch. Jul 6, 2pm. amBar, 8/F, Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, Sukhumvit Soi 15, 02-309-3000. B300, includes one drink.
SAFE ROOM SERVES: COSMO VITELLI The cutting-edge French DJ and producer leads a night of dance and electronic music. Jul 12, 9.30pm. Safe Room, 2/F, Whiteline, Silom Soi 8, 087-061-1117. B300, includes one Jagermeister shot. BLAST POOL SERIES #0052 Summer is here and there is no better way to spend your weekend than drinking by the pool. Jul 13, 2-9pm. DoubleTree by Hilton, 18/1 Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02-6496666. B400 including one drink/B800 including one-hour of free-flow.
LIVE MUSIC PSYCH-OUT FESTIVAL The third edition of this festival invites 10 bands and DJs to perform psychedelic sounds. Artists include Yellow Fang, Khana Bierbood, Ugly Mountain and more. Jun 30. Brownstone, 1395 Sukhumvit Soi 77. B600-800. ALEXANDROS SLEEPLESS IN BANGKOK The Japanese rockers make their Bangkok debut. Jun 30,
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5pm. Moonstar Studio, 701 Ladprao Soi 80, 02-539-3881. B2,600-3,800. HEALING SUNDAY WITH NOXNOI Wind down from a long week with spiritual, ambient and experimental sounds. Jun 30, 9pm. Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. Free. PAINTINGS BEYOND SPONTANEITY Six musicians join together for a night of jazzy improvisation. Jul 2, 8pm. Jam, Charoen Rat Soi 1, 089-889-8059. B200.
FILM
LUCREZIA BORGIA – THEATRE ON SCREEN A screening of French poet Victor Hugo’s play about the extremes of maternal love, with Thai and English subtitles. Jun 29, 5pm. Alliance Francaise de Bangkok, 179 Wireless Rd., 02-670-4200. B200 via bit.ly/2Xkaobs.
ART PIONEER IN VIDEO ART FROM THAILAND, SLOVENIA, NORWAY (SINCE 1980) A video art exhibition comparing and contrasting Southeast Asian and European styles, featuring work from Thai, Slovenian and Norweigian artists. Jun 30, 10am. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-6630 – 8. Free.
THE STRANGERS A theater and dance performance about empathy and antipathy towards cultural differences. Jul 4-6, 7.30pm. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02214-6630. Free. TWO REALITIES Two photographers showcase their very different styles, from Noah Shahar’s people-focused shots to Hans Meuter’s panoramic landscapes. Through July 24, 10am. 2/F, RCB Galleria, River City Bangkok, 23 Charoenkrung Soi 24. Free. DIGITAL FLÂNEURIE The South Korean artist Kim Sang Min will present her art videos and photo albums, which explore the concept of the flaneur in the modern age. Jul 12-Aug 17, 6.30pm. Ardel’s Third Place Gallery, 137-137/1 Sukhumvit Soi 55, 02-422-2092. Free.
FAIR AMCHAM INDEPENDENCE DAY PICNIC 2019 Celebrate Independence Day with live music, food, drink, fireworks and activities including a three-way soccer tournament between the U.S., U.K. and Australian Embassies. Jul 6, 1pm. Bangkok Patana School, 643 Soi Lasalle, 02-254-1041/226. B200-300 via bit.ly/2WMdbLh (children under 12 go free). BANGKOK FARMERS’ MARKET Shop for organic produce, artisan breads, natural home and body care, clothing, handmade jewelry, arts and crafts. Jul 1314, 11am. Gateway Ekamai, 982/22 Sukhumvit Rd., 092257-1106. Free.
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BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2019
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SINGHA PRESENTS KOLOUR REUNION One of the city’s best techno-house festivals is back with another great line-up of DJs
One of the most popular music festivals each year is Kolour in the Park, known for its vibey outdoor atmosphere and great line-ups of DJs and musical acts. It’s not the biggest music show in town, but that’s the point. Kolour is all about electronic beats that cut away from mainstream sounds, but in an environment that feels a step a nice step up from an underground club scene. The event is back on July 6 at Escape Bangkok for Kolour in the Park - Reunion 2019. Each year, Kolor boasts one of the better music line-ups around, and this year is no different with a selection of some nice international names specializing in disco, funk, house, and techno. Get your rug-cutting shoes on, drink in hand. There is also going to be the typical grade-A food and cocktails you’re used to.
Brought to you by Singha Music
Boris Rubin
Coran
ATMA
Boris Rubin’s signature sound of deep, groovy melodies and hypnotic basslines has already struck a chord with Thai club and festival goers. He’s a mainstay in the city’s underground club scene (you’ll frequently find him at Glow), but also makes the rounds at all the big festivals – Kolor and Wonderfruit included. He is also a part of Hanover's highly acclaimed YIPPIEE collective.
The Australian has done a lot for Bangkok’s underground music scene over the past 10 years. As an artist, his appearances on the festival circuit are pretty impressive with the likes of Quest, Garden Beats, Wonderfruit, Waterzonic, Mystic Valley, 808 Festival and Dropzone Festival – pretty much every major Asian festival.
Aneesh Medina
After performing at Kolour in the Park 2019, ATMA has been voted as the fans’ favorite regional artist for his incredible performance and fresh blend of soul-rending house and techno music. He’s also logged some time as a warm-up act for some big names, including Seth Troxler, Eats Everything, Derrick Carter, Miguel Campbell, and Sébastien Léger, and is no stranger to headlining shows either.
DJ Kingsize With a 20-year career that first took him from Cape Town to Johannesburg and then to the meccas of techno like Berlin, Dresden, London, Ibiza, India, Tanzania, and Asia. Kingsize infects our ears with deep vocal-laced house music through to funky, upbeat house music.
This Indian DJ is known for deep beats and rolling grooves that get dance floors moving. Over the span of his seven-year career, Aneesh has made a name for himself with long, progressive and melodic sets. You can expect more of that at the Kolour in the Park Reunion event — deep house set features a hint of disco.
Tickets are available at Event Pop. com (B650 for general sale and B750 at the entrance) Check out www.facebook.com/ SinghaLife for more information
travel | flavor of the south
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BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2019
Must-Visit Street Food and Night Markets
Nong Joke
MAHARAJ SOI 10
Bangnara Roti & Coffee
The Hilltop Restaurant
Roenmai
Krabi Bites
From fiery goong pad kapi sataw and aromatic kua kling, to buttery, flaky roti, here’s where to eat like a local in Krabi. By Kankanok Wichiantanon Nong Joke Best known for its fearlessly spicy, rich and flavorful food, Nong Joke has long been popular among locals and Thai travelers, and now thanks to foodie Youtuber Mark Wiens it also welcomes throngs of foreigners in search of authentic southern flavors. Must-gets are the pungent and punchy kua kling (southern-style dry minced pork curry, B120), which comes loaded with peppercorns and the comforting gaeng som pla kapong yawd maprao (spicy-sour turmeric-based soup with snapper and crisp coconut shoots, B150). 50/3 Moo 7, Sai Thai Rd., 075-611-639. Open daily 11am-2pm; 5-9pm
Kanom Jeen Pa Tom Though the rest of Thailand tends to eat kanom jeen for lunch, the south likes to kick off its mornings with the fiery noodle dish. Pa Tom is wellloved for its soft, fermented rice noodles that come with bold curries and crunchy fried chicken at jaw-droppingly low prices. Try the nam ya kati (a coconut curry blended with fish puree, B20) and the mouth-numbing gaeng tai pla (B20), topped off with a soft boiled egg (B10) and a few sprigs of deep-fried chili. Oh, and don’t forget the fried chicken (B15 a piece)—it’s a must. Krabi Rd., 086-686-1243. Open daily 7am-2pm
Ko Suang Eating here requires a bit of patience, since queues often form from early morning till late afternoon. Rest assured that their famous moo krob (crispy roasted pork belly) and moo daeng (red pork) are well worth the wait. Their thick cuts of pork belly are fried until the skin turns crisp and crunchy,
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and taste so comforting drenched in the flavorful, spiced gravy. Slightly less popular but no less delicious are their roasted duck on a pile of soft egg noodles and the Hainanese chicken-rice. 92/27 Vicar Rd., 075-612-550. Open daily 7am-3pm
Bangnara Roti & Coffee This place draws the crowds for its soft, fluffy, crisp-edged roti and flavorful beef/chicken curries (B30). It makes for the perfect spot get the day rolling with some local favorites and a cup of Joe. Located in a Muslim neighborhood right next to Ao Nang’s masjid, the diner offers a range of Thai-Malay dishes, including murtabak and nasi kerabu along with sweet roti drenched in condensed milk (B20). For something fresh and savory, get the spicy khao yam, a southern Malaysian-style rice salad with coconut-flavored rice tossed with fresh herbs and vegetables (B30). Wash it all down with their signature cha chuk (B25), an aromatic brew of black tea with condensed milk, prepared using the pulling technique of repeatedly pouring tea from one jug to another. 92/37 Luangpor Rd., 082-802-0798. Open daily 9am-2pm
Ko Tung Thirty-six years of service have made this Sino-Thai kitchen so good at what it does that it recently had to move to a bigger location to satisfy the crowds. Enjoy amazing dishes of braised pork belly (kao yok, B150), tofu topped with crabmeat gravy (tao hoo song krueng, B120), and stir-fried chicken with gingko nuts and syrup prunes (pad ngow guay, B150). Of course, you can’t miss their southern food—crab curry with rice noodles
Start off your morning with a stroll through this market, which is packed with an array of fresh veggies and fruits as well as tiny little breakfast spots offering coffee, tea and typical Thai morning dishes like porridge, guay jub and fried-chicken sticky rice. The market really has a little bit of everything with a lively and energetic vibe that’s just perfect to wake you up for the day ahead.
(B180) and gaeng som (a spicy sour soup, B150) are favorites of the region. 66 Maharaj Rd., 091-951-9245. Open daily 11am-10pm. fb.com/kotungkrabi2522
Ruenmai This Krabi favorite is all about BK Pick! traditional, spicy southern food. Customers’ favorites include goong pad kapi sataw (shrimp stir-fried in shrimp paste with sataw beans, B250) and pla inn sii thod sii ew (fried mackerel in soy sauce, B240). The setting in the middle of a small canal surrounded by trees is stunning, while the place is powered by solar energy. The open-air bamboo structure, with its soaring conical ceiling, rustic decor, traditional tiles and private dining salas, is a lovely setting to enjoy excellent Thai food.
KRABI WALKING STREET Located right next to Vogue Department Store, this is probably the biggest night bazaar in town. It only operates from Friday to Sunday each week (5-10pm) and the main draw is its plethora of food stalls, with choices ranging from small bites like fried chicken and grilled seafood on wooden sticks to local khao gaeng-style favorites. There’s live music playing almost every night and the market is surrounded by restaurants, most of which allow you to bring in food from the market to enjoy with their dishes. A less impressive range of goods like clothing is also on offer.
117 Moo 3, Klong Jilad Rd., 089-288-3232. Open daily 10:30am-3pm, 5-10pm. fb.com/ruenmaikrabirestuarant
The Hilltop Restaurant For some of the best views in Krabi, book a table at this spacious and sleekly designed restaurant above Ao Nang and Noppharat Thara beaches. The menu covers a solid selection of Thai favorites with a focus on seafood like gaeng poo bai chapoo (Southern style curry with crab meat and herbs, B390) and nam prig goong sod (prawn and chilli dip with assorted vegetables, B160). Request a table on the grassy area away from the main building for the best views.
CHAO FAH NIGHT MARKET Set alongside the Chao Fah Pier, this is the market to choose if you have your sights set on eating. Here, you’ll find little else except row after row of street food stalls serving up authentic, local fare. It’s different from Krabi Walking Street, as seating areas are provided making it a more convenient choice for dinner.
99 Moo 3, Ao Nang, 075-637-195. Open daily 11am-1am. www.thehilltopaonang.com
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travel | news
BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2019
13
NAKHON PATHOM
09 Keep it simple with this hidden loft-style cafe on the riverbank
08
This Nepalese themed rooftop bar-restaurant comes to life at night
09
10
SAMUI
FLIGHTS
10 Transformed tuk-tuk
11 Fly full-service to
Rolling onto Samui’s nightlife scene is an eye-popping, emerald green 1960s tuk tuk turned booze-carriage at the Banyan Tree hotel. Froggy Sea Breeze (it.ly/2znlytk) takes up prime real estate on the resort’s secluded beachfront, surrounded by twinkling lights and coconut trees for a wink-wink retro vibe. Start with the sweet and sour Froggy Melon cocktail (B280) before going all in with the gin- and absinthe-based Botanical (B280). Sleep it all off in one of Banyan Tree’s 88 swanky villas starting from B15,588 per night.
Thai Airways’ low-cost sister, Thai Smile, now flies direct between Bangkok and Jaipur, the so-called pink city of India renowned for its 18th-century sandstone palaces and oldworld forts. Running four times a week, these flights cost around B7,745 round-trip, which is a little higher than AirAsia’s (sub-B6,000, if you’re lucky). Why pay more? Thai Smile flies out of Suvarnabhumi not Don Mueang, comes with 20kg baggage and offers snacks during the 4.5-hour flight. Deal! Founded in 1727, Jaipur earned its nickname almost a century later when it was painted pink to welcome a visit from the Prince of Wales.
serves cocktails by the beach
CHIANG MAI
It takes some balls to open a Nepalese-themed restaurant that doesn’t serve any Nepalese food. Step forward Iames Basecamp (www.fb.com/iamesbasecamp), a bohemian vision of Himalayan fabrics and reclaimed central Asian woodwork on the rooftop of Chiang Mai’s hip indoor-slash-outdoor mall, One Nimman. The menu, however, is all about no-nonsense Thai classics, from the traditional tom yum kung with thick, aromatic broth (B180) to the pungent mango and shrimp paste dip served with fresh vegetables and cha om omelet (B120). Visit during the day for good coffee, affordable lunches and to browse their ethnic fashion collections, or check back at night when the full booze-shelves come into play and local DJs light up the sound system.
Hovering above the Tha Jin river in Nakhon Pathom, Simple Plan x River (061-269-2945. www.fb.com/simpleplanxriver) is a teensy cafe that lets its surroundings do the talking. The all-raw decor sees unpolished concrete walls and floors topped off with minimal furnishing. Instead of AC, diners bask in the most natural of river breezes. On offer is a handful of baked goods and drinks, including drip coffee with a small selection of light-medium roast beans from places like Uganda, El Salvador and Ethiopia (starting at B80). Hot plates come in unexpected forms, like a spicy sambal spaghetti with crispy karaage (B89) or a version of dried chili and bacon (B89). Situated about an hour’s drive from Bangkok, they only open on the weekend (10am-6pm) to ensnare daytrippers.
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food & drink | open doors
16 Nan Bei offers youthful Chinese fine dining The buzz: Authentic Chinese fine dining in a dazzling Art Deco setting at the new Rosewood hotel.
balls dipped in caramel (B360)—a sweet and salty foray into Chinese-Italian fusion.
The vibe: Nan Bei’s two open kitchen counters are divided into northern and southern Chinese cuisine. Interiors by AvroKo are a lesson in contemporary Art Deco perfection—inlaid marble flooring and a mix of mustard, cerulean, emerald, dark wood, black marble and leather tie together the lounge, bar, private dining rooms and compact balcony, with 19th -floor views over Sukhumvit.
The drink: Specialty teas meet their match in a unique whiskey pairing menu—try the sweet and smoky Macallan 18 whiskey paired with the earthy, chocolatey non-smoked lapsang tea (B800). Cocktails utilize Asian flavors, like sake in the Yoghurt Pisco Sour (B400) with lychee and green apple. For red wine, try the Italian Le Volte dell’Ornellaia, Sangiovese, Merlot, Cabernet (B640/glass; B3,100/bottle) or for white, the Dreissigacker Organic Riesling from Germany (B630/3,100).
The food: The menu is succinct yet packed with specialties led by five Beijingese head chefs. Cut through the oil of the richly peanutty gong bao chicken (B480) with a citrusy cucumber and dried tangerine salad (B180). The rich Beijingese ge da tang (B360) is not to be missed, its tomatoey broth brimming with wispy beaten egg, soft flour dumplings and fresh seafood. Carved tableside, Nan Bei’s authentic Peking duck (B1,900) is served three ways, as skin, pancakes and a stir-fry or soup, ensuring no part is wasted. Save space for dessert, as you’ll want to try their gorgeously light and milky mango pomelo sago (B290), as well as their hazelnut chocolate-filled sesame
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Why we’d come back: Until now, Chinese fine dining in Bangkok meant stuffy white-table-clothed dining rooms, or oriental cliches of red and black. Nan Bei sets itself apart with its opulent yet youthful ambience. This place is primed for special occasions with friends or colleagues. Angela Symons 19/F, Rosewood, Phloen Chit Rd., 020-800-088. Open daily 11:30am2:30pm, 6-10:30pm
Exclusively for Citi ULTIMA and Citi Prestige members: Get 20% discount on food & beverages. 1 Jun ’19 – 31 Dec ’19
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BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2019
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B.A.A.B.
NEW AND NOTED
13 This BTS outlet is boosting commuters with healthy green treats Sukhumvit’s home of all things avocado, The Hass Bistro (099-192-9626), has recently launched a new grab-andgo counter at BTS Chit Lom—decked out in bright lime green, you can’t miss it. Open from 7am daily, the counter gives office workers a chance to start their day with an energizing avocado milk slushie (B120) or fill up at lunch on a chicken and avocado wrap (B70) or a grains salad with avocado (B70). Don’t miss their super creamy avocado ice cream (B80) topped with crunchy cashew nuts—the perfect way to cool down from the summer heat.
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14 Sathorn’s sleek container serves serious coffee Within a few minutes’ walk of BTS Chong Nonsi, Lots Sathon (43/1 Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Soi 7, 083-826-4456) is the latest caffeine-fuelling station for local office workers. From within a sleek white container fitted with wood-framed windows, leafy plants and a small side deck, you can get everything from straight-up espresso (B60) to toffee nut lattes (B85), Thai iced milk tea (B55) and honey lemon soda (B90). To eat, try the chicken guacamole with bell peppers, cheddar and tortilla chips (B180) or the salami, cheddar and salad on sourdough (B180).
15 Charoenkrung's latest cocktail bar deals in funky Asian flavors The people behind Suan Phlu's short lived Kutai have reemerged with B.A.A.B. (Bad Ass Asia Bar, ATT 19, 19 Charoenkrung Soi 30, 096-2361564), a vibrant cocktail bar that’s part of Charoenkrung's ATT 19 art hub. Colorful antiques and trinkets set the scene for concoctions like the Shanghai Mist (B370), an easy-drinking mix of white tea-infused vodka with pomelo juice served in a petite teapot, which is made for sundown in the breezy courtyard with vertical garden. You’ll also find craft beers (from B220), mocktails (from B190) and nibbles like calamari with chili powder and Sriracha mayo (B190).
TABLE TALK
3 SAN 78/5 Sukhumvit soi 51, 02-005-4085. Open Tue-Sun 10am-10pm. BTS Thong Lo Tucked at the end of Sukhumvit 51, 3San prides itself on a unique combination of Thai, Chinese and American cuisine — designed by in-house chefs from all three countries. Dinner favorites include twisted noodles with uni cream and river prawns, mellow poached scallops in coconut broth, and foie gras wontons with shimeji mushrooms in duck broth. Head there around lunch to try special dishes like the San fried pork over rice.
Exclusively for Citi credit card members Get 10% discount on Tue – Fri when spending via Citi credit card (on food only) 15 May ’19 – 30 Apr ’20
6/21/19 6:09 PM
TABLE TALK
Mozza by Cocotte G/F, Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 097-004-0072. Open daily 8am-10pm. From the people behind Cocotte and Pesca, this Italian eatery serves comfort crafted by Chef Samuele Alvisi, who cribbed the recipes for the delicious mangia fuoco pizza (burrata, nduja and ventricina sausage, chili, and garlic) from his grandmother. Chef Samuele used to be at London’s Michelin-starred Stefano Cavallini, but that doesn't mean he’s afraid to dish out the crowd-pleasing pastas, salads and grilled dishes that you’ll find strewn across the menu— and we’re happy about that.
Exclusively for Citi credit card members Get complimentary drink valued THB280 when spending via Citi ULTIMA, Citi Prestige, Citi Preferred, Citi Premier and Citi Select and get 10% off for all cards (on food only) (for dine-in only) (Limit 1 glass /card /table /sales slip) 01 Apr ’19 – 31 Mar ’20
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Genius Bar
Waiting for Clara
NEW AND NOTED
16 Some of Bangkok’s most delicious southern fare is now on Surawong Khua Kling Pak Sod’s latest opening (2/F, Red Planet Hotel, 178 Surawong Rd., 093-242-4264) replaces the wooden chairs and white tablecloths of the original Soi 23 branch with strikingly sleek green ceramic tiling and retro orange and yellow leather chairs. The menu stays true to their fiery southern family recipes, with favorites from the signature khua kling moo sab (stir-fried spicy southern dry curry with minced pork, B180) to the flavorful sataw pad kapi goong (stir-fried stink beans and prawns with shrimp paste, B240). Head there from 5-7pm to take advantage of their two-for-one happy hour on all drinks, including cocktails.
17 Check out Bangkok's first bone broth cafe
18 This modern Italian pop-up offers a peek of what's to come
From the U.S. to Australia, takeaway counters are springing up in dedication to bone broth. Now, Bangkok is jumping on the trend with Genius Bar (LG/F, The Eight Thonglor, 36 Sukhumvit Soi 55 [Thonglor], 097234-6482). Run by a young couple, the light and airy opening sees both chicken and beef bones simmered for 18 hours into nutrient-rich hugsin-a-cup (B135/12oz), whose health benefits supposedly include joint protection, reduced inflammation and a boosted immune system. They also offer the energy boosting Einstein Elixir (B135), a vegan alternative packed with earthy mushrooms and Chinese herbs. Add-ins (B15 each) include turmeric root, ginger and fresh coriander.
Waiting for Clara (2/F, Ruamrudee Grove, 51/2 Soi Ruamrudee, 095879-6257) is a new pop-up by chef Christian Martena that’s set to blossom into a permanent restaurant on Yen Akart in September. Previously of Opus and Sensi, chef Murtena is no stranger to the Bangkok restaurant scene. Prepared in an open kitchen, his seven-course tasting menu (B1,980) highlights modern Italian cuisine, from deconstructed bruschetta and foie gras tortellini in duck broth, to Italian-style wontons made from cagliata cheese, which diners are invited to enjoy around two large sharing tables capable of accommodating 20 guests. Wine pairing options are available at B780 (half) or B1,280 (full).
6/21/19 6:09 PM
food & drink | taste test
Who makes the best... chain coffee? A good cup of Joe should be a smooth and full-bodied medley of acidity, sweetness and bitterness. But who here seriously hits up an indie coffee roaster for a B120 espresso each morning? That's why we’ve blind tasted the Americanos at Bangkok’s big coffee chains to see where you should be fuelling up. Here are our top five. By BK Staff
BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2019
1. Coffee Club
Winner!
The place: An Aussie-born, Thai-owned coffee and brunch chain that now boasts 14 branches across Bangkok. The taste: This strong, full-bodied coffee is just what you want to wake up to in the morning. It balances acidity with a nice, smoky aroma without being overpowering. At double the price of most chain fare, you can taste the difference. The price: B95
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3. McDonald’s
The place: America's prolific fast-food chain also serves a wide variety of coffee, from caramel macchiatos to cappuccinos. They use 100-percent Arabica beans, which are supposedly freshly brewed every 30 minutes. The taste: Mellowness that keeps us coming back for more. The taste is neither too strong nor too light, with just a lightly bitter aftertaste. Mmm. The price: B39 www.mcdonalds.co.th
thecoffeeclub.co.th
2. All Coffee (7-Eleven)
The place: You can’t walk five meters in Bangkok without coming across this Japanese -owned American international convenience store chain—the majority of which have their own hot food and coffee counters. They claim to inspect their beans five times prior to roasting. The taste: With the lowest price tag on the list, this coffee proves that cheap isn’t always bad. It actually tastes pretty smooth and nicely rounded, with just a touch of sourness and smoky undertones. Seven, is there anything you can't do? The price: B25 www.7eleven.co.th
2. Chao Doi
The place: This Chiang Mai cafe franchise shines a light on beans grown by Thailand’s hill tribes and goes in for dark-roasted traditional Thai coffee. The brand has around 300 franchises across the country, as well as outlets specializing in bubble tea. The taste: Strong and smoky with an intensely burnt taste and smooth texture. There’s no complexity here, just straight-up bitterness, but we love it. The price: B45 www.chaodoicoffee.com
5. True Coffee
The place: Better known for their mobile phone operations, True Corporation is in-store cafes now draw an outside crowd. The taste: A hint of acidity with fruity undertones that fade quickly into a more subtle and smooth taste. This is a tried and true cup. The price: B75 truecoffee.truecorp.co.th
Read the full list of Bangkok's best chain coffee at bit.ly/2ITdpGC
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6/21/19 6:09 PM
food & drink | news
BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2019
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HOT OF THE PASS
Get your weekend foodie fix with BK Brunch Club
KETO PIZZA For an additional B150, you can now make any Pizza Massilia pie keto-friendly (low in carbs and sugar and high in healthy fats). They’ve also launched new toppings, including Octopus and Potatoes (B590) with extra virgin olive oil, mozzarella and parsley and the Salsiccia and Friarielli (B420) with Italian sausage, turnip tops and mozzarella.
BRUNCH TIME
We, like you, know that Saturdays and Sundays are best spent around a dining table, preferably one sagging with wholesome sharing plates alongside awesome company. That’s why, for our latest big Bangkok foodie event, we’re putting the spotlight on brunch. For every weekend through Jul 15, BK has partnered with over 20 of the city’s lightest, brightest, most daytime-friendly dining spots to roll out sensational sharing menus of the finest produce. The BK Brunch Club isn’t your runof-the-mill Sunday brunch with long buffet lines and the same old cooking stations. We’re talking at least four courses at every restaurant, most or all of them served family-style just for your table, with menus starting from just B1,000 per person. And what’s brunch without booze? Plenty of the Brunch Club venues are also offering alcohol packages for an additional B500. Who’s taking part? Many of Bangkok’s top fine-dining and fine-casual restaurants, including names that don’t normally do brunch or even lunch, such as 80/20, Jua and Sensi. For full details of menus, prices and how to book, visit bkrestaurantweek.com/brunch.
Sensi
Cr. miss_rogue, Flickr
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TRUCKIN’
EH?
GOOD MOVE
20 Bangkok’s favorite burger truck is now on Silom
21 Canada’s Tim Hortons to open in Thailand
22 Ekkamai’s coffee joint has a new home
Bangkok’s beloved bright red burger truck, Daniel Thaiger, has shifted its operations from Sukhumvit Soi 30/1 to Silom. You’ll now find it parked on the corner of Silom Soi 8, right next to nightclub and art hub Whiteline. Since launching on Sukhumvit Soi 38 six years ago, Daniel Thaiger has proven a musttry for its buttery, no-nonsense handfuls of meat, cheese and brioche. It’s not all doom and gloom for Sukhumvit residents: you can still find Daniel Thaiger at The Commons (Thonglor Soi 17) and on Sukhumvit Soi 11. Silom Soi 8. Open Tue-Sun 4-11pm
Tim Hortons, Canada’s largest coffee-and-doughnut chain, is set to make its debut in Thailand in the near future. Though dates and locations have yet to be confirmed, Tim Hortons stated earlier this month that they’d reached an agreement with WeEat Co. to launch Thailand’s first outlet, which will retain the company’s original recipes and also adapt parts of its menu to local tastes, as it did in China earlier this year. The fast food chain first opened in Hamilton, Ontario, in 1964, and currently has 4,846 restaurants worldwide. Tim Hortons is best known for its fresh-baked goods such as doughnuts, muffins and bagels, as well as coffee.
Ekkamai’s sleek home of Melbourne-style coffee culture, Kaizen, has relocated just up the road. Now the name Kaizen Coffee Newold, the standalone shop is surrounded by greenery. Expect the same pared-back decor and scientific coffee prep—try the Nitro Cold Brew (B150)—but cakes, breads, pastries and even pastas are now all made in-house. Big brekkies come in the form of scrambled or fried organic eggs on quinoa sourdough with sauteed greens and grilled tomatoes (from B220) and the vegan-friendly mushroom and kale focaccia with house pumpkin butter (B210). 888 Sukhumvit Soi 63 (Ekkamai), 098-831-6009
TABLES TURN After nine years, Grand Hyatt Erawan’s Tables Grill has closed its doors to make way for a new concept. Due to reopen in August, the French fine-dining steakhouse is set to become a new Italian restaurant.
TOP CHEFS As their six-month Ter’ra pop-up comes to an end, former Freebird head chef Pongcharn “Top” Russell and former Suhring chef de partie Michelle Goh are set to head up a new modern European kitchen, Mia. The new venture is slated to open in Phrom Phong on Jul 18.
YOU SAID WHAT?
The news in online foodie posts
F&BNews-BK#765-28JUN2019-3_NEW.indd 14
“This is PAWesome!” - FACEBOOK USER THORSAENG CHUANGCHOTE ON PAWS’ NEW CAT CAFE.
“This is real sock water coffee... doesn’t deserve talking about.” - FACEBOOK USER JESS NAPASIRI ON TIM HORTONS COMING TO BANGKOK.
“Little Italy at the entrance of Sukhumvit 23 is also really good.” FACEBOOK USER AYRTON RIDA ON BK’S SOI 23 NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE.
6/21/19 6:14 PM
food & drink
BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2019
19
ADVERTORIAL
FEAST OF A DEAL
Bring the Heat
Thai restaurants that pack a seriously spicy punch Somtum Khun Kan
How: This restaurant earned its no-compromise reputation through a concise menu packed with spicy flavors. We recommend tum sua pu pla ra (somtam with rice noodles, fermented crab and fish), which is noticeably spicy but still mellow enough to encourage repeat spoonfuls. 6 Wachiratham Sathit soi 23, 02-3970770. Open daily 10am-11pm
Get a complimentary small set of mango with sticky rice valued THB 70 when spending THB 500 or more /sales slip (limit 1 set /card /table /sales slip) 01 Jan ’19 - 31 Dec ’19
Suphanniga Eating Room
How: Alongside familiar staples, the three-generation-old recipes here highlight the underappreciated dishes of Thailand’s east. Produce is always fresh and carefully selected, but the seasoning used is just as impressive, blending smooth and powerful tastes together marvelously.
Sawaan
How: From the first bite there is no doubt: dishes like the Isaan inspired Beef Soup come packed with zesty flavors from Thai herbs and nice heat. 39/19 Suanphlu Rd., 02-679-3775. Open daily 6pm-midnight
Get a complimentary drink valued THB 420 when spending HB 2,000 or more / sales slip for Citi ULTIMA, Citi Prestige, Citi Premier, Citi Premier, Citi Preferred and Citi Select (limit 1 drink /person) 01 Mar ’20 - 31 Jan ’20
Somtum Der
How: The kitchen’s only compromise to Bangkokian’s weaker stomachs is to pasteurize the pla ra (fermented fish sauce). Apart from that, you can expect full, well-rounded heat in the dishes that call for it.
Somtum Khun Kaan
Sawaan
351/2 Sukhumvit 55 (Thonglor), 02-0464904. Open daily 11am-2:30pm, 4:3010:30pm.
Get 10% discount on food only 01 Nov ’18 - 31 Oct ’19
Riva Arun Hotel River Front 392/25-26 Maharaj Road, , 02-015-4224. Open daily 11:30am-2:30pm, 5:30-11pm
Get 10% discount on food only 01 Nov ’18 - 31 Oct ’19
Brought to you by Citi
Suphanniga Eating Room
Somtum Der
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6/21/19 6:10 PM
dining reviews
BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2019
20
Soho Pizza
Soho Pizza HHH American, Italian. Eleven, 26/3 Sukhumvit Soi 11, 02-821-5113. Open Sun-Thu noon-midnight; Fri-Sat noon-3am. BB-BBB
“Finally, proper New York-style pizza in Bangkok!” was the general sentiment we heard when Soho Pizza launched on boozy Sukhumvit 11 in January 2019. Armed with a team trained by Anthony Falco, a somewhat famous “pizza consultant” with nine years in the NYC pizza game, Soho’s wide-bottomed, thin-crust pies have all the hallmarks of a good New York slice. The base is crunchy but still soft enough to fold in half, the sauce is slightly sweet and tangy, and there’s just enough grease to leave some residue on your paper plate. One will satisfy most, two and you’re stuffed, three and you’re a madman. They’re not the first NYC pizza pusher in town. Ronny’s New York Pizza and Pizza Mania have been dishing out similar pies for years. What makes Soho stand out is its by-the-slice format. The neon-lit counter feels very similar to what you’ll find across North America—a big windowed pizza display next to a multi-layer oven billowing plumes of heat, an army of pizza cooks frantically scurrying away in the background, and gaggles of late-night wanderers eating their pies from paper plates. The
X
Hinoya Curry HHH Japanese. 3/F, The Market, 111 Ratchadamri Rd., 083-824-0405. Open daily 10am-10pm BB F
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If you haven’t visited The Market, the 2019 opening that’s firming as the ugly duckling of Ratchaprasong’s mall circuit, we wouldn’t blame you. However, putting aside the teeny-bopper fashion boutiques and recycled restaurant chains (like the neighborhood really needed another After You), there is at least one reason to drop by and that is Hinoya Curry. This Tokyo-hailing chain serves satisfying bowls of Japanese curry rice in a bright-lit, blond-wood space that walks the line between sleek and sterile. Of course, the restaurant wouldn’t be here in Bangkok without a rich backstory. Hinoya Curry was started in 2011 by Masaru Hiura and shot to fame when its seven-seat outlet near Kanda Station took top honors at the Kanda Curry Grand Prix 2013, an annual festivel where curry shops from around Japan take part in a massive cook-off. Now this veritable curry-rice empire numbers 50+ outlets around Japan. That’s small-time compared to Coco Ichibanya, the mall-dwelling curry house Hinoya most resembles, but still a big deal. Ratings H Forget it HH Only if you’re in the neighborhood HHH A pleasant dining experience HHHH Not to be missed HHHHH Flawless BK pays for its meal and does not call ahead or sit with the chef.
DiningReview-BK#765-28JUN2019.indd 17
armory of accouterments is there too—Tabasco, chili flakes and oregano—to pile on as heavily as you like. The place looks the part, and the pizzas taste the part. We’ve heard grumblings of inconsistent quality, mostly regarding the 18-inch takeaway pies, which we haven’t ordered. By the slice, the experience is great and a tad nostalgic. The classic pepperoni (B150/slice, B750/18-inch) has that oh-so-satisfying salty tang to break up its generous bed of gooey mozzarella. The cheese pizza achieves that balance equally well (B120/ slice, B600/18-inch), but this time with stabs of sharp caciocavallo and Parmigiano. Stick to these two and you’re golden. There are six options in total if you want to change things up—not all of them available by the slice. The sausage and peppers (B150/slice) and roasted mushroom (B140/slice) are fine, but on repeat visits we found ourselves sticking with pepperoni and cheese. There is an elephant in the room we can’t avoid: price. B150 for a slice of pepperoni pizza is nearly US$5. That’s similar to top-tier venues in NYC and San Francisco, and way higher than the family-run pizza haunts most New Yorkers frequent. Soho nails the look and feel, the slices are crispy, greasy and satisfying, but they whiff the “cheap and cheerful” part. Has that stopped us from going back? No. If you’re dying for a good grab-and-go slice in Bangkok, Soho is your spot.
Masaru claims his curry was inspired by his grandmother’s recipe, and it certainly brings something new to Bangkok’s quick-stop curry scene—rather than peppery, the sauce is tangy and sweet (a little too sweet if some online murmurings are to be believed), not to mention incredibly rich thanks to the plentiful shreds of either beef or pork. Enjoy it with katsu (deep-fried pork cutlet, from B220) that’s thicker and denser than most, and add a raw egg (B20), their specialty, for a little extra smoothness. Like Coco, there are endless customizable options, from adding spinach (B40) into your curry or topping it off with tempura shrimp (B100), though you can’t adjust the heat level. The menu’s also littered with Thai exclusives—the beef teppanyaki curry rice (from B220) makes a nice non-breaded selection and reminds us almost of Philly cheesesteak. Don’t fancy curry rice? Don’t come here. There’s a curry spaghetti version with sliced sausage (from B200), but otherwise it’s slim pickings, even for sides—the sickly sweet potato salad (B60) is best avoided. What Hinoya Curry lacks in charm, it makes up with rich, reliable flavors and quick, efficient service. That’s good, because you wouldn’t want to spend more than 30 minutes here—there’s not a drop of booze and the watery iced sparkling yuzu (B79) is hardly worth the free refills.
Price guide Under B500 B500-1,000 B1,000-2,000 B2,000-3,000 BBBBB Over B3,000 Price per person, including one drink, appetizer, main course, dessert, charges and tax.
B BB BBB BBBB
Symbols Reservations recommended Parking Dress requirements Live music
H F E G
6/21/19 6:16 PM
BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2019
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GUIDES Reach affluent urbanites through trusted publications with a six-month to one-year shelf-life.
To be featured in our upcoming 2019 guides, contact us at advertising@asia-city.co.th, 02-624-9696
To be featured in our upcoming 2019 guides, contact us at advertising@asia-city.co.th, 02-624-9696
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6/21/19 5:17 PM
drink | beat the heat
BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2019
22
Catch these boozy events before they’re over
NEGRONI WEEK Through Jun 30, 14 bars across Bangkok are participating in this charitable negroni extravaganza, including Vesper, The Loft and Evil Man Blues. You’ve also still got time to catch the closing party on Jun 30 at The House on Sathorn, when special guest bartenders will be whipping up free-flow Campari cocktails for just B1,000 per person. All proceeds go to The Foundation for the Deaf under The Royal Patronage of Her Majesty the Queen.
Escape
Tropic City
Sunray
Summer Fling Face the heat with Bangkok’s best tropical bars. By Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj Escape Why you go there: You’re craving some sun, sea and tanning time at a beach club in Phuket but your budget only stretches to Phrom Phong. What it looks like: Like Baba Beach Club had a night out in Bangkok and threw up here. What you dance to: Tropical house music with the occasional live saxophone or weird bongo-ish percussion. What you drink: Despite the decor, it’s not all tiki and pineapple here. Signature cocktails like The Myth Maguey—something like a tequila-based Manhattan—will set you back B340. Who you’ll be swiping on Tinder: Pretty-face Thai bloggers who leave their food to go cold as they need to photograph it from every angle first. 5/F, The EmQuartier, 695 Sukhumvit Rd., 02258-6515. Open daily 5pm-midnight
Blue Parrot Why you go there: You live in Sathorn and need somewhere nearby for brunch where your kids can run wild on the grass. What it looks like: This could well be your dream backyard—big swimming pool (don’t forget your swimsuit), sunbeds, trees, lawn and most importantly, a bar. What you dance to: Chill pop to classic reggae. What you drink: Fresh, easy-drinking cocktails like the R&G (a white wine spritzer with grapefruit juice and puree, B220), or a bottle of rose (B1,050-2,190). Who you’ll be swiping on Tinder: No one, this is a family-friendly place so there aren’t any single people (you’ll have better luck at sister bar Revolucion). 50 Sathorn Soi 10, 02-235-4822. Open Wed-Mon 11:30am-11pm
DrinkFeature-BK#765-28JUN2019.indd 22
Pool Bar
Why you go there: Because they offer a really good deal for non-hotel guests. You pay B500 to use the pool, which can be redeemed as vouchers to use at the bar. What it looks like: It might not look all that tiki and tropical but it has a really nice pool facing out over the business district, so you can lord it over all the office workers while you’re soaking up the rays. What you dance to: You don’t. You just gently sway to their background-y house music. What you drink: Whatever’s on discount—mojitos are B150 between 2-4pm; Aperol Spritz is buyone-get-one-free from 3-4pm; then all items are 40-percent off until sunset. Who you’ll be swiping on Tinder: Chinese tourists attempting to take selfies in the pool while simultaneously trying to avoid a tan. 9/F, Novotel Sukhumvit 20, 19/9 Sukhumvit Soi 20, 02-009-4999. Open daily 9am-8pm
Tropic City Why you go there: Thonglor has become too hip and crowded, and you keep bumping into the same faces. You’ve realized Bangkok nightlife stretches beyond Sukhumvit. What it looks like: Tiki with under-the-radar edge. What you dance to: Co-owner Sebastian De La Cruz also moonlights as a DJ, spinning whatever the cool kids would listen to. What you drink: Their recent placement in Asia’s 50 Best (no. 31) pays testament to their next-level cocktails—just order whatever’s on the menu, it’s guaranteed to taste good (from B320). Who you’ll be swiping on Tinder: Someone wearing either a Hawaiian shirt or a pair of rare collab sneakers.
Sunray Why you go there: You’re bored of Bangkok’s busy city lifestyle and feel like “getting out of town.” What it looks like: A cool, hip, millennial version of an Ayutthaya riverside grilled fish restaurant. What you dance to: Eighties- and ‘90s-indebted synth-pop, funk and alternative rock. What you drink: Easy-drinking cocktails to go with the easy-going vibe, but not the usual fruity suspects. The Bitterpine (B300) combines smoked whiskey, Campari and sweet vermouth with pineapple to cut through all the booze. Who you’ll be swiping on Tinder: Bangkok hipsters who try to be cool by trying too hard. 226/8 Phahon Yothin Rd., 080-111-1333. Open Thu-Tue 5pm-1am
Cactus Why you go there: You were schooled in California and you miss that chilled beachy vibe where it seems like there’s not a worry in the world. What it looks like: Like Palm Springs transplanted neatly among Yen Akat’s low-rises, complete with a bonfire on the rooftop. What you dance to: Bangkok’s coolest DJs dropping in to play tropical house tunes. What you drink: Tasty and easy-to-down cocktails like the Californication (B320), which is served so icy-cold that you’ll hardly even taste the Havana Club rum, mixed with pandan, passion fruit, pineapple, and chili to spice things up a little. Who you’ll be swiping on Tinder: Thai hi-sos.
THE OLD MAN Here’s your chance to try the “best” cocktails in Asia. Recently crowned number one in Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2019, Hong Kong’s The Old Man is currently holding a pop-up in the lobby at the Mandarin Oriental hotel. Until the end of August, you can sample their entire menu from Hong Kong.
BANGKOK BAR SHOW Taking place for the first time between Jun 28-30, this event will comprise a massive fair at the riverside Lhong 1919 complex, as well as a slew of satellite events, guest shifts and parties at some of Bangkok’s most buzzing cocktail bars. It all kicks off on Jun 28 with an opening event at #FindThePhotoBooth presided over by David Ong (curator of Asia’s 50 Best Bars) and Boo Jing Heng of Tess Bar (Singapore Bartender of the Year 2017).
15 Yen Akat Rd., 02-249-1451. Open Tue-Sun 5pm-2am
672/65 Charoenkrung Soi 28, 083-838-2750. Open Tue-Sun 7pm-1am
6/20/19 2:37 PM
neighborhood | bts on nut
BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2019
Cheap Charlie’s
23
Oak Wine Valley
Hubba-to
LAFF Cafe
On Point Far enough from the craziness of central Bangkok, On Nut is a laid-back hub of restaurants, bars and friendly faces. You can find all these places and more within around 10 minutes’ walk of the BTS. By Suthivas Tanphaibul
Coffee & Breakfast Wake up with an espresso (B55) at DNA Coffee (On Nut Soi 2, 084-111-4151) before hopping over Sukhumvit to Oh La La Cafe (200/003 Sukhumvit Soi 50, 02742-9255) for a filling full English breakfast (B350) or deviled eggs (B250). For something greener, check out health-conscious bistro Yakkin Pak (734/3 Sukhumvit Soi 50, 062-693-9936) for wholesome dishes like their orange cranberry chicken salad (B170) and spicy salmon sashimi with mango (B295). Hungry for something sweet? Head to the photogenic LAFF Cafe (199/1, Soi Bunthom, Sukhumvit 50 Rd., 092-929 -8384) for their signature coffee and passionfruit drink, My Passion (B180), paired with a slice of their indulgent Madam carrot cake (B165).
Smitr Cafe
Lunch & Dinner If you’re in the mood for ramen, don’t miss Sapporo Ramen Donchan (233/8 On Nut Soi 1, 02-716-2929), where you’ll find pocket-friendly miso (B90) and shoyu varieties (B90). For more Japanese fare, Fukuichi (235/12 Sukhumvit Soi 77, 062- 9986192) serves Osaka-style dishes, such as motsunabe (offal hotpot, B350) and Harami steak (B291). For continental flavors, check out Cabana Garden (75/1 On Nut Soi 2, 02-742-6405), where homemade pasta in traditional amatriciana sauce (B250), ravioli (B280) and linguine alla pescatore (B290) are served in a two-story house with a leafy garden. If pizza is more your thing, drop by Rolling Stone Pizza, starting at B260 for a margarita (The Beacon Place, Sukhumvit Soi 50, 088-950-4164).
Drinks
Accommodation
On Nut has no shortage of watering holes, from the fairylit garden at Smitr Cafe (Soi Luea Suk, 092-424-9691) for chicken wings (B155) and beers (Oettinger beer, B190), to the new incarnation of former Soi 11 stronghold, Cheap Charlie’s Bar (The Beacon Place, Sukhumvit Soi 50). For homemade German sausages (B119) and craft beers (Xsansuk, B220), head to Dog Step (Soi Sukhumvit 50, 094-695-4619), or for a classy evening of wine (Silveroak Alexander Carbernet Sauvignon, B3,000/bottle) and dishes like roast duck in orange sauce (B480), check out Oak Wine Valley (451 Sukhumvit Soi 50, 091-765-0008).
Transport BTS On Nut is within 10 minutes’ walk of most venues.
Rhythm Condo Onnut by Kwan‘s (8/199 Sukhumvit Soi 50) units run from B17,000 -B77,000/ month; Blocs 77 by Sansiri’s (291 Sukhumvit Soi 77) from B12,000/month; and The Base Sukhumvit 77’s (289 Sukhumvit Soi 77, 02-740-3506) from B10,500/month.
Visit On Nut Market (On Nut Soi 1, 0-2742-6891) is great for grocery shopping. De-stress at Orchid Spa and Massage (204 Sukhumvit Soi 77, 02-332-4899) or Arati Yoga Center (455 Sukhumvit Soi 50, 081-618-3802). Habito Mall (45/19 Sukhumvit Soi 77, 02-136-5932) houses Hubba-to (02-118-0839) co-working space, Vietnamese restaurant Muine (092- 959 -4629) and Korean fried chicken specialist Choi Choi (02-062-2935), among others.
BK ASKS
What do you love about On Nut?
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ARNY MCINTYRE, OWNER OF ROLLING STONE PIZZA The charm of this area is its simplicity. It’s filled with people from different cultures, blended perfectly together.There are also lots of outdoor bars and restaurants to chill out at with great prices.
KAIMOOK ASAWISARAPORN, OWNER OF DOG STEP In this area, the charming mix of local and trendy atmospheres will make you want to stay forever.
SORAYA PONGPPITAK, OWNER OF OH LA LA CAFE The people who live here are super friendly. If you are looking for a relaxed neighborhood, this is your spot!
6/21/19 6:17 PM
Celebrate the weekend with awesome brunches at some of Bangkok’s best restaurants! Up to 10 courses from just B1,000++
Free-flow drink packages from just B500++ Every weekend through July 14
Limited seats! Book now
#bkbrunchclub2019 bkrestaurantweek.com/brunch
Participating Restaurants 80/20 • Aesop's Bangkok • Arroz • Bangkok Trading Post • Billy's Smokehouse • Cagette Canteen & Deli • Cocotte • Haoma • Jua • Koi Restaurant • La Bottega di Luca • La Casa Nostra • La Tavola • Luka Moto • Ocken • Pesca • Pizza Massilia • Sensi • Tapas by Nan Charcoal Grill • The Brasserie at Waldorf • The Kitchen Table (W Bangkok) • The Meatchop Butcher & Spirits
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SHARE TO WIN! Want to win an amazing five-course set menu for two at Sensi (valued at B4,000++)? Just share your BK Brunch Club 2019 photos on Facebook and Instagram with #BKBRUNCHCLUB2019