BK MAGAZINE.
In Remembrance of His Majesty
King Bhumibol Adulyadej FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2016
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10/31/16 3:21 PM
it's free! Slippery when wet
BK MAGAZINE NO. 635 FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016. www.bkmagazine.com
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4/4/16 5:10 PM
it's free!
Reshuffles, reshmuffles
BK MAGAZINE NO. 454 FRIDAY, sEptEMBER 7, 2012. www.bkmagazine.com
Top of the Pop-Ups For the edgiest shops, follow the cool kids out of the mall.
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8/31/12 5:05 PM
it's free! Use your noodle
BK MAGAZINE NO. 642 FRIDAY, JUNE 3, 2016. www.bkmagazine.com
ON THE BOIL The essential guide to eating ramen in Bangkok
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6/2/16 8:16 PM
it's free! Made up your mind?
BK MAGAZINE NO. 649 FRIDAY, JULY 22, 2016. www.bkmagazine.com
WORD ON THE STREET How everyday Bangkokians plan to vote on the referendum
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7/14/16 4:47 PM
it's free! Ploughs at the ready
BK MAGAZINE NO. 638 FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016. www.bkmagazine.com
BANGKOK’S BEST SPOTS TO GET BREAKFAST
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4/28/16 6:34 PM
it's free! On the run
BK MAGAZINE NO. 560 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014. www.bkmagazine.com
WHO CAN SAVE OUR SIDEWALKS?
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10/6/14 5:29 PM
it's free! Read responsibly
BK MAGAZINE NO. 612 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com
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10/16/15 12:37 PM
it's free! Put some pants on
BK MAGAZINE NO. 615 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com
Outside C hanc e Bangkok’s newest alfresco bars and restaurants.
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11/9/15 4:29 PM
it's free! Will they make the cut?
BK MAGAZINE NO. 617 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com
Hot Plates The best new restaurant openings of 2015 Cover_617_Nov27_15.indd 1
11/20/2558 BE 4:05 PM
bites STREET FOOD
Old-School Eats Our favorite bites around the Old Town’s Nang Loeng area. By Natcha Sanguankiattichai Photo By Panita Thiraphapong Sor Rungroj
Nuea Toon Nang Loeng
Pork tongue stew
Roasted duck and pork at Jib Kee 2
In operation for more than 80 years, this three-unit shop-house right across from Nang Loeng market still draws in considerable foot traffic. The duck is the highlight here, be it the tender roasted version or the deeply-flavored braised duck soup (B20). Also don’t miss the pork belly as it comes lean and crispy with satisfying grilled notes. B35-50 for rice topped with roast meat. 355-359 Nakorn Sawan Rd., 02-281-1283. Open daily 9am-1pm
7 Braised beef at Nuea Toon Nang Loeng
Tucked down a small alley, this stall has been serving its delicious kae noodles (B45) for over 60 years. The highlight has to be the seven varieties of look chin (pork, fish, shrimp and tofu balls and dumplings), made daily in-house.
Currently run by its third generation, this braised beef noodle shop is almost impossible to get a seat at during lunch hours. Accompanying the five-hour braised beef is a savory broth that’s packed with aroma. Order a side of rice (B6) to your braised beef soup (B60) and soak up those flavors.
Trok Nang Loeng 2, 089-881-9976, 02-2861970. Open Thu-Tue 10am-5pm
Mae Lek
11 Nakorn Sawan Soi 2, 02-282-0608. Open
Pork tongue stew at Mon-Sat 10am-2:30pm the unnamed shop on 8 Kanom tuay at Supamit Rd. Montha The humble shop tucked on the road 5
behind Nang Loeng market specializes in just two things—pork curry and pork tongue stew (topped on rice at B30 each). Both dishes pack plenty of nostalgic charm with mild but impressive flavors. Add some non-greasy, grilled goon chiang (Chinese sausage) for B35. 93/9-10 Supamit Rd., 02-282-3918. Open Mon-Sat 8am-2pm
With their thick top layer of coconut milk on soft rice batter, the tiny traditional ceramic bowls of kanom tuay (B25/8 pieces) really stand out here. Freshly steaming her treats during selling hours, the third-gen owner doesn’t meddle with the classic recipe.
Montha
Inside Nang Loeng Market, 02-280-7535, 086-714-5603. Open daily 9am-2pm
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Inside Nang Loeng Market, 02-282-5142, 02-629-9670. Open daily 7am-2pm
rn ko
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141-3 Nakorn Sawan Soi 6, 02-629-9800. Open daily 9am-9pm
worked in Wang Lang royal kitchen, Nanta makes traditional Thai desserts including steamed kanom gluay (banana cake), kanom tarn (palm cake) and kanom pueak (taro cake, all B35/ box). All are delicious.
3
4 Na
Inside Nang Loeng Market, 02-281-2261. Open Mon-Sat 11am-2pm
duck at this 50-year-old shop is tender and easily falls apart at the touch of your chopsticks. The braised duck noodles (B45) is our pick from the expansive menu.
6
Nang Loeng Market
3
This lesser-known snack of rice and pork sausage with an accompanying mixture of snakehead fish crumbs and herbs (B50/set) is one of the most compelling reasons to visit Nang Loeng Market. Add some kick to the dish with a dose of fresh chili.
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Rd
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9 Thai desserts at Braised duck at Sor Nanta Saikrok pla naem at Rungroj Mae Lek The result of hours of simmering, the Taking recipes from her ancestor who 6
an Saw
5
Rd.
Inside Nang Loeng Market or 123 Phaniang Rd., 02-282-2391, 080-234-7881. Open daily 6am-5pm.
4 Guay tiew kae at Suwimol Guay Teaw Kae
mit
Don’t let the shop’s name stop you at just the plump and fluffy salapao (in four different fillings—minced pork with salted yolk, roasted pork with shiitake, black sesame and taro, B18 each). The big, dense and tasty shumai (B6 each) may be even better.
Nanta
Sup a
1 Shumai at Aroi Salapao
Jib Kee
BK Magazine Friday, February 26, 2016
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2/19/16 5:28 PM
it's free!
♥
BK MAGAZINE NO. 627 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2016. www.bkmagazine.com
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2/5/16 6:25 PM
avenue | flavors
Where’s the beef? By now, you must have figured out that the words Kobe and wagyu are good news to any meat lover. But do you know Japan’s many other cow-loving regions? By Pieng-or Mongkolkumnuankhet, illustration by Panita Thiraphapong
W
agyu is just a breed, that’s why you can get it from places other than Japan, such as Australia. Kobe is a place, which makes some of the best wagyu beef in the world. Now there are actually four breeds of wagyu— although even in Japan kuroge washu, or black hair cattle, accounts for 90% of what gets eaten. (The other breeds are red hair, shorthorn and polled horn.) More importantly, what really distinguishes one chunk of wagyu from another is where it was raised, as the land, weather, feed and local farming traditions can greatly influence the meat’s flavor. Here are the regions you should be keeping an eye out for, and why chefs in Bangkok love them so much.
1
Miyazaki (Kyushu Island, Kagoshima Prefecture)
“Even though wagyu beef was originally from Hyogo [Kobe] and Omi prefectures, they don’t compare with the cattle raised in Miyazaki. Miyazaki wagyu are now regarded as the finest Japanese cows and have won various industry awards including the most honored ‘National Wagyu Award’ by the Wagyu Registry Association. The unique characteristics are the cherry red color, tender texture and great dense meat flavors. The snowflake-like fat is evenly distributed and produces a non-greasy flavor,” says Chef Sethasak Anavachasuk of Prime, Millennium Hilton, Charoennakorn Rd., 02-442-2000. Open daily 6:3011pm. Available in steaks at B3,999 for rib eye (180 grams) or B3,999 for strip loin (180 grams).
2
Kagoshima (Kyushu Island, Kagoshima Prefecture)
“I find that Kagoshima beef is similar to Kobe beef, which is one of the best. But since Kagoshima is known for its flavorful pigs, the cows are actually cheaper for the quality you get, which is very tender, fragrant and, again, on a par with Kobe cattle,” says Pakpoom Nukulchitkit of Kaze Fresh Japanese Restaurant, 318 Thonglor Soi 10, 02-392-3544. Open daily noon-2pm, 5-10:30pm. Available in sushi at B450 and steak at B1,400 for 150 grams.
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3
essentials spring water mountainous hot climate river lake sea/ocean forest
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Omi (Honshu Island, Shiga Prefecture)
“The uniqueness of Omi beef is that they are fed naturally and allowed to walk around outdoors, which results in an earthy taste and smell. The marbled texture and softness of the beef is comparable with famous names like Kobe or Matsusaka. But an Omi wetaged fillet just tastes unique: earthy and rich, with a steely minerality that reminds me of grass-fed beef and white truffles. Its texture is like butter. You could, quite literally, cut it with a fork,” says Thirawat Panjasophkul of Teien Sushi Bar, Piman 49, Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-6625757. Open daily 11:30am-2pm, 6-10pm. Available in sushi at B340 and with rice at B1,400 for 100 grams. “The most beautiful marbling out there. It’s got the great taste and the fat is good for your health. The cattle is raised in the warmer weather, large fields, windy places to keep the cows happy, with some brushing thrown in—what people often call massaging the cows. The fascinating thing about the beef in Japan is that every province has its own technique and ratios for what goes into the feed for the cow. So it all depends on how you like your beef,” says Chavayos Rattakul of Tenyuu Grand, Sathorn Rd., 02-632-1777. Open daily 11:30am-10pm. Available in sushi at B1,200.
Iwate (Honshu Island, Iwate Prefecture)
“Iwate works best for shabu-shabu as it’s got a great balance of meat and fat. Here, we use A4-A5 grade. The taste of the beef is still amazing while the fat is not too greasy when you cook it in the hot pot,” says Chavayos Rattakul of Yashin, Nihonmura Mall, Thonglor Soi 13, 02-712-6868, 087-508-9395. Open daily 11:30am-2:30pm, 7pm-2am. Available at B1,590 (150 grams) for a shabu/suki set.
5
Matsusaka (Honshu Island, Mie Prefecture)
“Matsusaka beef is raised in a quiet and peaceful atmosphere with fresh air. They are fed with plenty of fiber as well as beer to increase their appetites at least once a week. They’re provided with intense care and receive regular massages for relaxation. It is considered to be The King of Wagyu as it has such mellow flavor and melts in the mouth at every bite,” says Kitikorn Penrote of Eat Meat Sweet, 99/11-12 Langsuan Balcony Bldg., Soi Langsuan, 02-684-5944. Open daily 11:30am-2pm, 6-10pm. Available in strip loin steak at B6,500 (250 grams).
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Saga (Kyushu Island, Saga Prefecture)
“This beef is really one of a kind. Raised in a serene environment with very pure water, it is a very popular and well-known premium beef in Japan. [Our] Saga beef is of the highest quality (A5) and has beautiful marbling,” says Chef Norio Nomoto of Nami, JW Marriott, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-656-7700. BTS Nana. Available in set menu at B3,290-8,900. n
BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, novembeR 22, 2013
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11/15/13 8:37 PM
it's free! Feeling hungry?
BK MAGAZINE NO. 631 FRIDAY, MARCH 11, 2016. www.bkmagazine.com
Sunday Service The ultimate guide to Bangkok’s brunch buffets. Cover_631_Mar11_16_2_NEW.indd 1
3/7/16 4:54 PM
it's free! Pandas forever
BK MAGAZINE NO. 632 FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2016. www.bkmagazine.com
BAD BAD COMPANY COMPANY Meet Bangkok’s most annoying co-workers.
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3/14/16 7:41 PM
it's free! Go vote!
BK MAGAZINE NO. 651 FRIDAY, AUGUST 5, 2016. www.bkmagazine.com
Why Bangkok is emerging as ASEAN’s hub for startup businesses
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7/29/16 3:25 PM
it's free! Remember Thammasat
BK MAGAZINE NO. 660 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2016. www.bkmagazine.com
Bangkok’s indie music labels and why they matter
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10/3/16 4:14 PM
it's free! Sweet!
BK MAGAZINE NO. 554 FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014. www.bkmagazine.com
15
DESSERTs You Need To Try in bangkok now
Special redesign issue: new look, new sections, same great taste! Cover_Aug29_554_2.indd 1
8/22/14 5:01 PM
avenue SHOPPING | DINING | HEALTH & BEAUTY
Let Them Have Brunch Too Stylish patisserie Let them Eat Cake (G/F, Mille-Malle, 66/4 Sukhumvit 20, 02-6634667) is the latest venue to introduce an all-day brunch menu on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am to 11:30pm. New dishes include St. Honore au Foie Gras with raspberry, lychee and hazelnuts (pictured, B360), a French version of Pomelo salad (B190) and “Paris-style” eggs benedict with inverted puff pastry, poached egg, green apple sauce, Hollandaise sauce and honey-glazed pork belly slices served with a salad bowl (B290). Add a glass of wine (starting at B200/glass) and end with one of their specialty desserts such as the St. Honore Rose-Framboise (B175) or the impressive kaffir lime tart (B145).
FAshIoN | East Coast Chic
bEAuty | Drop It Like It's Hot Estee Lauder has rolled out its latest beauty serum which promises skin purification for a youthful look. The Estee Lauder Advanced Repair synchronized Recovery Complex II contains hyaluronic acid which moisturizes the skin and is said to create an optimal skin condition for the natural repair process. They also boast that the serum minimizes wrinkles. Simply apply several drops at night before applying your moisturizer. Available for B4,000 at Estee Lauder counters nationwide.
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Preppy menswear label Royal Ivy Regatta just unveiled its autumn/winter 2013 collection dubbed “The Rendezvous.” Made in collaboration with celebrity fashion photographer Kanachai Bencharongkul, the collection takes inspiration from the outfits of rich kids attending Ivy League schools, from their sophisticated uniforms to their timeless sportswear. The collection’s signature pieces include polo shirts, rugby shirts, cardigans, chino shorts and pants in tones of burgundy, army green, caramel and mustard. Now available at Royal Ivy Regatta shops, try 2/F, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd.,02-658-6541. BTS Siam/Chidlom.
shoppING | Sugar Rush Garden Flynow III’s sister brand Malang just launched its new line of youthful and feminine ready-towear garments, introducing a more playful character that promises to be a central theme in future collections. Putting the emphasis on pastel colors and cute street art prints, the debut collection tells the story of a pink rabbit named Rinee, who clearly has a thing for cropped tops, dresses and skirts in sweet palettes, with understated sexy touches. A sporty edge can also be found in pieces like the sweat pants and ladies’ tennis dresses. Available at Malang stores nationwide, try 3/F Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-1707. BTS Siam.
bK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, septembeR 27, 2013
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9/20/13 7:06 PM
it's free!
Chance of storm
BK MAGAZINE NO. 510 FRIDAY, OctOBER 11 , 2013. www.bkmagazine.com
TRASHED
Who’s to blame for Bangkok’s growing garbage problems?
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10/7/13 5:58 PM
it's free! We want street food
BK MAGAZINE NO. 592 FRIDAY, JUNE 5, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com
SECOND COMING New labels from established Thai designers
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5/28/15 3:11 PM
avenue Modern Ways to Play Retro Videogames
TECH
RETROARCH (Free)
Press Start!
RetroArch is the Android tablet users’ answer to everything retro gaming. This all-in-one emulator app supports pretty much every console from the SNES to the PS1 via either touch-interface controls or various USB and Bluetooth controllers. The app works with iOS as well, though only on jailbroken devices. Avail-
Relive the pixelated glory days of eight-bit videogames at these retro-gaming stores around Bangkok. By Kanin Srimaneekulroj
able for Android and iOS (jailbreak only)
OPENEMU (Free) If you’d rather play Contra on a large screen, try OpenEmu for Mac. With an interface very much like iTunes, the emulator a l l ow s yo u to a rc h i ve a n d browse through your collection of retro games with ease, but doesn’t support every console. Available for Mac OS
PROPER SHOPS
BK PICK!
ONLINE SHOPS
O-Corner
Game Club Retro
If there is really such a thing as the coveted nerd-vana, this is probably it. Stacked from floor to ceiling with retro videogames and vintage toys, this little, tucked-away shop in MBK is co-owned by a Japanese man, meaning all the products in the shop are shipped straight from the source. They also have a pretty impressive stock of videogame merchandise, the likes of which is usually only found in the US or UK, such as limited edition action figures, T-shirts and posters.
The focus here is games and consoles, and the catalog of products is pretty impressive. As well as secondhand Famicoms (Japanese Nintendos starting from B6,900) and classic Gameboys (starting from B2,000), there are plenty of Nintendo’s hard-to-find early hand consoles, the Game & Watch (starting from B1,600). They also sell vintage Japanese toys and limited-edition G-Shock watches, all of which are decorated with a geeky theme like Ironman or Gundam. Their website is a mess, though, so finding specific items can take some fiddling around.
6/F, MBK, Phaya Thai Rd., 02-611-4880. www.fb.com/ OCorner
Love Game Shop Interesting fact: The owner of this store came upon an abandoned factory filled with unopened Sega Mega Drive (aka Sega Genesis) consoles and games, so it’s no wonder this place has some of the best-condition gear in town. He even has rare relics from Nintendo’s short-lived days as a toy manufacturer, before they focused exclusively on videogames, like the physical version of the hit Super Nintendo game Duck Hunt (B3,900). Serious collectors should really check this one out.
083-138-2992, gameclubretro@hotmail.com. www. gameclubretro.com
Classic-Gameshop Not quite as retro-focused as the others, this shop is still worth a look as they accept pre-orders of many limited edition items released only in Japan (though shipping can take up to a month), plus the website is much cleaner than the competition and very easy to navigate. Really, though, the focus here is on new games, and they produce their own Youtube video series telling you about the latest releases.
J-Retro Games Shop The selection of products can be scarce, but this is one place especially for serious collectors— they even offer complimentary acrylic display cases for all purchases to show off your retro gaming treasures. Like Classic-Gameshop, they too have a pre-order service called 2UP Japan. As long as it’s being sold on a Japanese website somewhere, 2UP can get it for you. 081-914-4313. www.facebook.com/JRetroGamesShop
1983 Crazy Game Shop As well as secondhand retro consoles (starting from B5,000 for Famicom / B1,000 for Mega Drive), this shop has some unused ones (starting from B2,000), so should be on the radar of anyone who like their collectibles in mint condition. There’s also a good stock of legitimate PS1 games, which are extremely hard to come by in a country where pirated copies are the norm. Baan Klang Mueng Village, Srinakarin Rd., 089-6923174. www.facebook.com/1983CrazyGameShop
GAME-OLDIES.COM (Free) Why own a console when you can play games straight from your browser? That’s exactly what Game Oldies lets you do. This awesome website lets you instantly play a huge number of games for free straight from their website and even lets you save your progress. It’s impressively flexible, considering it’s only a web app. Available for all internet browsers (Google Chrome recommended)
080-264-6445. www.classic-gameshop.com
5/F Mega Plaza, Mahachai Rd., 084-434-5115. kokoshop.tarad.com
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BK Magazine Friday, December 19, 2014
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12/12/14 8:19 PM
it's free! Start planning
BK MAGAZINE NO. 574 FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com
NEXT STOP The hottest destinations we’ll be headed to this year
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1/16/15 5:49 PM
bites & blends
RESTAURANT
Yes, Yes This new project by chef-couple Duangporn Songvisava and Dylan Jones, the masterminds behind one of Bangkok’s top Thai restaurants, Bo.lan, goes for a more casual and raw vibe, set in a twounit shop-house near the river. With it’s name taken from the informal Thai word for agreement, Err aims to be a fun hangout spot focusing on small-portioned Thai dishes that go well with drinks. These include the likes of chicken satay with brioche (B195), naem (Northern-style garlic and sticky rice cured pork, B195) and the so-called Chicken Movie (B150), deepfried whole-chicken skin with homemade Sriracha sauce (B150). There are also serious meal options like pad krapao nuea (stir-fried beef with holy basil, B380), clay pot braised black-lip mussels with glass noodles and black bean sauce (B320), and pork hock in tom yam soup with pickled cabbage (B180). The bar boasts a lot of cocktails made with Thai spirits, like the Waan Noi (Maa Jai Dam banana spirit, shade grown coffee and coffee liqueur, B250) and the LTBT (Lamai Takrai Bai Toey, Lamai sugar cane spirit, lemongrass and pandan essence and lime, B220). 394/35 Maharaj Rd. www.errbkk.com
NEW BAR
BRUNCH
POP-UP
Brew dog
Tiki Sunday
Chinese Mess
Joining the community of bars and restaurants at Mahatun Plaza Arcade, next to La Monita and Whisgars, Hair of the Dog is the latest serious beer bar in town, run by a former tap master at Mikkeller Bangkok and his Canadian friends. This tiny bare concrete room provides an intimate drinking hole, while surgical lighting above the bar and hospital beds doubling as tables give off a haunted hospital vibe. They’ve selected a rotating batch of 13 beers on tap, supplied by all the familiar faces (Beervana, Brewdog, Hopsession and Mikkeller). These are no cheap drinks, though: prices range from B220-430. The owners are promising ciders and more bottle options soon. 2/F, Mahatun Plaza, 888/26 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-650-7589. Open daily 5am-midnight. BTS Phloen Chit
Claiming to be the home of the Mai Tai cocktail, the Trader Vic’s restaurant chain is pretty serious when it comes to this tiki-style drink. Now, in keeping with its Polynesian decor, the Anantara Riverside’s branch has added a free-flow Mai Tai package to its allyou-can-eat Sunday brunch. At B1,999 per person, you can indulge in lines of seafood on ice, cold cuts, sashimi and sushi rolls as well as the restaurant’s signature ribs, teppanyaki and grilled seafood. To go with the food, pick between a virgin Mai Tai, a barrel-aged Mai Tai and three special Mai Tais infused with peppermint, wild berries or earl grey tea. On top of that, you can also taste twisted versions, such as margarita and mojito Mai Tai, and take a short class from resident mixologist Ron Ramirez. Available every Sunday from 10:30am. 257/1-3 Charoen Nakhon Rd., 02-476-0022
Ahead of his long-awaited new restaurant on Sathorn Soi 12, chef Jess Barnes of Opposite Mess Hall has announced a Silom pop-up at Maggie Choo’s in collaboration with chef Blair Mathieson (formerly of Quince and No Idea). Called Big Trouble in Little China, the pop-up will be serving what Jess describes as “classic and trashy Chinese food,” and will be headed by Blair. “We will use organic and free range of course—no cheap shit,” says Jess. “The whole idea is you can eat for dirt cheap or spend big bucks if you want to, just like your neighborhood chinese joint.” Prices will range from B150-2,000, with food available for both dine-in and takeaway. Underground/F, Hotel Novotel Bangkok Fenix Silom, 320 Silom Rd., 091-772-2144. Open Mon-Thu, Sun 7:30pm-2am; Fri-Sat 7:30pm-3am
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BK Magazine Friday, July 17, 2015
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7/10/15 5:14 PM
avenue SHOPPING | DINING | HEALTH & BEAUTY
BEAUTY | Absolute Absolution The New Sensation Italian Chef Christian Martena, previously worked at Opus (in Lower Silom), just opened his own new Italian fine-dining restaurant, Sensi, meant to be even more sleek and luxurious. Of course, they make their own pasta, which you can order a la carte, but since you’re there, why not try the set menu that’s regularly changing depending on available ingredients. Last time we checked, the B1,790 set menu came with seven courses, with dishes like artichoke salad with parmesan and black truffle, and strozzapreti pasta with Canadian lobster in a Mediterranean-style. Narathiwas Soi 17, Yaek 5, 02-117-1618. www.sensibangkok.com.
Lancôme’s latest foundation, Absolue Sublime Rejuvenating Essence Foundation, is infused with precious oils said to stimulate skin regeneration. It’s one of Lancôme’s first products to combine the three skincare ingredients of citrus essential oil to help skin-self regeneration, camellia oil to help improve skin barrier function, and their anti-aging molecule Pro-Xylane. After application, they’re promising radiant skin, reduced wrinkles and revived fine lines. Available in six shades, formulated especially for Asian women and available with the Absolue Applicator, a kabuki brush to achieve coverage and evenness while applying the foundation. Get it for B3,200 at The Emporium, G/F 662 Sukhumvit Rd., BTS Phrom Phong.
FLAVORS | French Flavors Bangkokians will soon have another excuse to stuff themselves with delicious gourmet food, as Fauchon, the Parisian culinary store founded in 1886, opens at Groove CentralWorld next month. On offer will be their classic pastries and bakery treats, a lunch and dinner menu filled with French fusion cuisine, and a wide range of Fauchon products: smoked salmon, chocolate, tea, wine and spirits. Executive Chef for the Asia Pacific Region Nicolas Jambert promises a special collection of pastries exclusive to Thailand, including their signature éclairs. Having worked in Asia for the past 16 years, he says he’s very familiar with Asian tastes and flavors, which might come in handy given Le Notre's sad fate in Bangkok. Try it yourself when Fauchon opens in February at 2/F Groove Central World Ratchadamri Rd., 02-635-1111.
TECH | Phoney Valentine’s With Valentine’s Day around the corner, Vertu Constellation is rolling out luxury phones in five new colors, which could make the perfect gift. Launched in 1998, this British smartphone manufacturer has abandoned Symbian and is now powered by Android. Colors include cappuccino, black, orange, mocha and raspberry. If you’re looking for a present for him, try the Vertu Ti Ferrari (B500,000), which combines metal elements and diamond-faux coating similar to the engine components of a F12 berlinetta. For her, how about the Vertu Ti White Alligator (B400,000), decorated in white alligator leather. Available at 1/F Siam Paragon Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-7899. BTS Siam.
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BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
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1/27/14 4:38 PM
it's free! Welcome back
BK MAGAZINE NO. 522 FRIDAY, JANUARY 10, 2014. www.bkmagazine.com
THE BEST FOOD, MUSIC, FILM AND SHOPPING COMING YOUR WAY
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1/3/14 3:33 PM
it's free! The Good Stuff
BK MAGAZINE NO. 564 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. www.bkmagazine.com
EAT OUT The best places to dine and drink under the stars
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10/31/14 7:02 PM
it's free! 555
BK MAGAZINE NO. 555 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2014. www.bkmagazine.com
THE DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS ABOUT TO RESHAPE THE CHAO PHRAYA
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EscapEs Above Cattle Class BK rounds up which airlines’ Premium Economy Class really gets you the most comfort for your money. By Top Koaysomboon, illustration by Panita Thiraphapong
C
omfort Economy, Economy Plus, Y-Class—whatever it’s called, the Premium Economy Class that sits between economy and business is getting more popular with frequent travelers flying long-haul flights, thanks to its marginally better comfort (than eco) and more affordable price tags (than business). Around 20-80% more expensive than coach, it often lacks some of the the nicer perks of flying business (such as a lounge or special meals). Think of it more as long-haul survival class, particularly for taller and bigger passengers.
Seat reclining 123°
Seat width19” Pitch widthSeat 36”reclining
Air France Plane: Boeing 777-300
10”
120°
18.9”
19.5”
18.5”
123°
123.7°
7”
38”
38” 7”
british Airways Plane: Boeing 744/777
N/A°
38” 123.7°
EVA
How MuCH MorE doES PrEMIuM ECo CoST CoMPArEd To ECo? 120°
JAL
Plane: Boeing 777/747-400 122°
Plane: Boeing 777-300 110°
Seat plan: 2-4-2
Seat plan: 2-4-2
Seat plan: 2-4-2
Seat plan: 2-4-2
Features: adjustable head, leg and foot rests, power port
Features: adjustable head, leg and foot rests, power port
Features: adjustable head, leg and foot rests, power port
Features: adjustable leg and foot rests, universal power port
Available routes from Bangkok: Paris & Amsterdam
Available route from Bangkok: London
Available routes from Bangkok: Taipei, London, Amsterdam
Available route from Bangkok: Tokyo
What’s special: We love the French Seat design: there’s a separate shell for each width19” seat, so nobody is tilting their seat onto you.
19.5” Pitch width 36”
What’s special: BA was the first airline to introduce Premium Eco in 2000. Its new revamped World Traveller Plus 18.5” Class looks even classier but it’s not yet available on flights from Bangkok.
18”
38”
38”
What’s special: The JAL Skyshell Seat What’s special: EVA’s Elite Class boasts is completely isolated from the the some of the widest seats, biggest recline passenger behind, even when titled, 18.9” 19.5” angle, special meals and an overnight earning it a nod from the Good Design kit. Best of all, it’s also only 20-30% Awards in 2008. Too bad it costs nearly 19.5” 19.5” more expensive three times 38” than eco. 38” as much as eco.
38” 10”
42” N/A°
+175%
Qantas
+150%
+125%
46” 122°
british Airways
110°
+100%
+75% 19.5” 38”
Qantas
38”
SAS
SAS
Air France
19.5” 42”
THAI Airways
46”
Turkish Airlines
Plane: Boeing 474 / Airbus A380
Plane: Airbus A330/340
Plane: Airbus A340-500
Plane: Boeing 777
Seat plan: 2-3-2 on A380, 2-4-2 on 747
Seat plan: 2-3-2
Seat plan: 2-3-2
Seat plan: 2-3-2
Features: adjustable head, leg and foot rests, power port
Features: adjustable head, leg and foot rests, universal power port
Features: adjustable leg rest, universal power port
Available route from Bangkok: Sydney
Available routes from Bangkok: Copenhagen, Oslo and Stockholm What’s special: Not only do you get more legroom and a more ergonomic seat, SAS’s Economy Extra also gets you Business Class benefits that include priority check-in and upgraded meals.
Available route from Bangkok: Los Angeles
Features: adjustable leg and foot rest, power port, access to foot massage apparatus
What’s special: Designed by famous designer Marc Newson, Qantas’s Premium Economy has been ranked No. 1 in Skytrax World’s Ten Best Premium Economy Class Seats for a couple of years. The pricing, though, is way up there with Turkish and JAL.
10
19.5”
18”
JAL Turkish
What’s special: Finally, THAI doesn’t lose face this time. Its Premium Economy features some of the widest seats and greatest legroom. Throw in “smooth as silk” service, one of the lowest price premiums compared to regular eco, and the extra miles earned, and you’d have a winner if only it existed on more routes.
+50% THAI Airways
+25% EVA
Available route from Bangkok: Istanbul What’s special: Turkish’s Comfor Class seats offer the greatest amount of legroom in our roundup. And with everything tucked in the armrest, your screen doesn’t move when the passenger in front reclines. The price, though, is more business than eco. n
0% *Cost difference estimated for flights from May 6-11.
bK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2012
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Join the party
BK MAGAZINE NO. 473 FRIDAY, jANuARY 18, 2013. www.bkmagazine.com
WHO GETS YOUR VOTE? Six weeks from the election, we ask Bangkokians which candidate is their top choice for governor.
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Still here?
BK MAGAZINE NO. 469 FRIDAY, DEcEMBER 21, 2012. www.bkmagazine.com
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12/14/12 7:27 PM
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We’ll be back Apr 19
BK MAGAZINE NO. 484 FRIDAY, ApRIl 5, 2013. www.bkmagazine.com
Adopt, , Don t Shop How saving strays can make a difference
Songkran double iSSue
Destination: Awesome The best fests, sports and events this year
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it's free!
World’s hottest city
BK MAGAZINE NO. 488 FRIDAY, MAY 10, 2013. www.bkmagazine.com
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it's free!
You are what you drink
BK MAGAZINE NO. 502 FRIDAY, AuGust 16, 2013. www.bkmagazine.com
GROWING AWESOME FOOD RIGHT HERE IN BANGKOK
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it's free!
Leaving town again?
BK MAGAZINE NO. 487 FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013. www.bkmagazine.com
Bicycle Buddies
Whether you’re into fixies or BMX, join a bike gang and never ride alone.
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4/25/13 6:04 PM
avenue | flavors
Sea change The fish you should avoid—either because their farming or capture is bad for the environment, or because they are near extinction—and what you should eat instead. By Pieng-or Mongkolkumnuankhet Extinction risk Cod
Chilean seabass (better known as snowfish)
bluefin tuna
Gurnard
Pollock
Albacore tuna
40%
80%
5
700
Reduction in the number of cod in Georges and Grand Banks in North America, where cod is traditionally abundant, over the past 10 years.
Reduction in the number of the maximum sustainable yield in the Gulf of Maine in 2012. The situation is very severe.
Years in which environmentalists predict Chilean seabass will become extinct if people do not stop consuming.
Number of chefs in the US that have vowed to stop including Chilean seabass on their menu since most are caught through pirate fishing.
Sources: The New York Times, Four Fish by Paul Greenberg
US$4 billion
80%
Value of the bluefin tuna black market in Europe.
Percentage of tuna consumed in Japan that hails from pirate fishing.
Sources: National Geographic News
Source: The New York Times
Unsustainable farming Tiger prawns
Organic tiger prawn, langoustines, crab
Seabass
Salmon
Wild-caught Alaskan salmon Wild-caught seabass
20
73
Hours per day illegal Burmese and Cambodian laborers are forced to work in many Thai shrimp farms.
Percentage of Thai shrimp producers who report that they use antibiotics in their farming.
Sources: Daily Mail, Greenpeace
Times by which environmentalists claim farmed seabass is fattier than wild-caught ones, due to antibiotics and pollution.
Source: The Guardian
Others on the Greenpeace Red List
Reasons
Atlantic halibut 1 2 3 4
Rockfish 1 2 3 5
Atlantic salmon 3
Shark 1 2 3 4 5
European hake 1 2 3 4
Skate and ray 1 2 3 4 5
Haddock 1 2 3 4
Swordfish 1 3 4 5
Marlin 1 3 4
Tropical prawns 1 2 4
1 Fishing method catches other vulnerable species 2 Unsustainable fishing 3 Overfishing 4 Unselective fishing methods 5 Pirate fishing
Monkfish 1 2 3 4 5
Tuna (except skipjack) 1 3 4 5
Plaice 2 3 4
26
17
1
74%
Number of PCB-contaminated farmed salmon meals per month recommended by the US EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), compared to eight meals of wild-caught salmon.
Percentage of embryos that die when escaped farmed salmon breed with wild salmon.
The Greenpeace Red List is the fish species that are near extinction, overfished or their fishery method is harmful to other species or the environment.
Sources: Greenpeace, Institute of Health and the Environment, University at Albany
Where can you eat sustainable fish? Oyster Bar. 395 Narathiwas Ratchanakarin Soi 24, 02-2124809. Open Mon-Sat 6-11pm; Sun 12-2:30pm, 5:30-10pm Sustaina. 1/40 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-258-7573. Open Mon-Sat 11am-9:30pm; Sun 11am-8:30pm
essentials Alternative option
Avoid
bK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, octobeR 25, 2013
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10/17/13 7:43 PM
it's free!
Blow my whistle
BK MAGAZINE NO. 515 FRIDAY, NOvEMBER 15, 2013. www.bkmagazine.com
Home Style Inside design devotees’ personal spaces
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it's free! Refresh
BK MAGAZINE NO. 610 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com
VEGGING OUT What you need to eat this Jay Fest
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10/5/15 4:59 PM
avenue | flavors
Sweet Spots
FRESH DELIVERy new online bakeries
There’s always room for new dessert joints in Bangkok. By Pieng-or Mongkolkumnuankhet
The Pastale
Pop Me Up Stickhouse
White Day Patisserie (www.facebook. com/whitedaypatisserie, 092-4586571) specializes in Japanese sponge cakes with cutesy decoration (price start from B500). Here you can also get made-to-order delights like strawberry shortcake, banoffee pie and lemon cheesecake. Orders must be made three days in advance. They are open MonSat from 7am-8pm.
A Peace of Cake’s (www.facebook. com/apeaceofcake.peace, 089-9834806) signature is the Burmese-Thai Friendship cake (B390 per pound), while other treats include the brownie cheesecake (B450 per pound) and light chiffon mandarin orange cake (B360 per pound). They also provide delivery and catering services. Order three days in advance.
Stickhouse
The Pastale
The Pastale
Stickhouse
The Pastale has been delivering its bakery treats to office workers in Bangkok for a few years already through their Facebook page. Now, they’ve launched a proper café serving up sweets like chocolate croissant B60), scones (B70) and Thai tea crepe cake (B110). Savory bites include waffle with hamburg (B155) and spaghetti meat balls (B165).
While you’re counting down to the opening of the Garrett Popcorn Shop (said to open in December), try out its new neighbor Stickhouse, which boasts of original gelato served in popsicle form. You can’t walk by without noticing the place’s bright pink decor, so why not take a punt on the hazelnut or strawberry flavors—or something patriotic like the Thai Flag which comes in watermelon, butterfly pea and coconut. Prices start from B89.
Suthawong bldg., Wireless Soi 1, 089-8112576. bTS Ploenchit. Open daily 11am6:30pm
Pop Me Up Café Another place that was born as a Facebook page, Pop Me Up offers up a large selection of bite-sized cakes (B60) in flavors such as chocolate, red velvet and toffee. They also hold some workshops about crafting sugar into many wonderful forms. Sukhumvit Soi 63, 086-571-2262, 02-3815355. Open Mon-Fri 10am-7pm
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Mori
G/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-6107682. bTS Siam. Open daily 10am-10pm
Sistermade Homemade (www.facebook.com/sistermadeHomemade, 082996-2246) offers made-to-order sugary treats with an emphasis on customization. Their specialties include the cake balls (B250 for a box of 12) and Hedgehog cake (B700). Orders must be placed two days in advance and workshop appointments for sample designs and tastes can be made one week in advance. Mori
Luk Kai Thong
Japanese Chef Mori Yoshida, of Patisserie Mori Osaka, offers up new and delicious ingredient combinations such as the cheddar popcorn chiffon (B175) or you can also stick to their classics like strawberry red bean mocha and matcha chiffon (B175) or mixed fruit and cheese mousse (B180).
There are so many things going BK PicK on at Paragon lately—from all the new restaurant openings on the G/F to the new sweet zone on the 4/F. Joining other new dessert cafés like Tart to Tart and Royal Sugar there is Luk Kai Thong, which has hit our sweet spot with its Pang Cha Luk Kai (bread topped with Thai tea, sweetened condensed milk and almond, B175)—insanely comforting and delicious.
Mercury Ville, Ploenchit Rd., 02-6585518. bTS Chidlom. Open daily 8am-9pm
4/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-6109520. bTS Siam. Open daily 10am-10pm
Mori Dessert bar
Yanin’s Homemade Patisserie (www. facebook.com/yaninshomemade, 082777-6555) does delicious made-toorder homemade desserts like the famous Tahiti vanilla macarons (B42) and strawberry, rhubarb and vanilla tart. Order must be made 2-3 days in advance. Manisha Kalra
bK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, novembeR 29, 2013
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11/25/13 6:47 PM
it's free! Showtime!
BK MAGAZINE NO. 629 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2016. www.bkmagazine.com
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it's free! Back to Reality?
BK MAGAZINE NO. 536 FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014. www.bkmagazine.com
ART’S NEW DIGS The galleries, bars and cafes shaking up the Bangkok scene
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it's free!
Three-day weekend!
BK MAGAZINE NO. 669 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2016. www.bkmagazine.com
...and what we think of them
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it's free! Open your bag
BK MAGAZINE NO. 606 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com
A neighborhood guide to Sathorn Soi 10-12’s best places to eat and drink
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Aliens welcome
BK M AG A ZI NE NO. 445 F RI DAY, j u lY 6, 2 0 1 2 . www.bkmag az ine.co m
travel Long-haul low-costs food Saphan Lueng taste trek tech Hook up your TV
Really Retro
Ditch the themed malls and check out these authentic boutiques
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avenue | flavors
Top of the Pops With the opening of Garrett, we put seven brands of caramel-flavored popcorn to a blind taste test. By BK Editorial
1
POPCO (B65)
3
VALUE Popco ranks top when it PICK comes to local popcorn brands. Keeping things affordable, the popcorn has a nice, satisfying caramel flavor and crunch, with just the right amount of fluffiness and a good aroma of butter. Verdict: Value pick. 3/F, Digital Gateway, Rama 1 Rd., 081-885-6615. Open daily 10am-9pm. See more branches at www.popco-shop.com 2
NINE POPCORN (B150)
This is pretty generic. The texture is an OK mix of fluffy and crispy, while the caramel is not overly sweet, with a slightly salty hint. But the whole thing tastes slightly overcooked, even burnt. Not bad, but not really that good. Verdict: Could do better. The Selected, 3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd.
TORO (B18)
5
One taster remarked that this BK PICK popcorn looks like someone just peed on it. But, guess what, this supermarket snack is not too bad at all. Caramel flavor? Not really; it’s strangely syrup-y. But it’s pretty nice and will keep you digging into the bag because it’s got a good balance of flavors—not too sweet or too salty. Verdict: Good sweetness. Nothing more Try any branch of 7-Eleven 4
This popcorn looks like the YUCK bits and pieces you usually find at the bottom of the bag. The corn tastes pretty cheap, too, while the flavor offers only one dimension: super-sweet. Overall, it’s a sad and sweet Taiwanese import. Verdict: Looks bad, tastes worse. The Gourmet Market, G/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-690-1234
6 1
5
2
TOB CORN (B99)
Tob Corn really brings out the corn flavor. Sadly, the quality of the popcorn is not that great: too chewy, not really crispy and fluffy, plus a bit stale. The overly brown appearance is also a bit misleading as it has no taste of caramel whatsoever despite the label proclaiming its “Paris Caramel” flavor. Verdict: Weird, weird color. LG/F, Terminal 21, Sukhumvit Rd., 091-435-5629 7
7
3
The Gourmet Market, G/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-690-1234 6
POP-SMILE (B45)
POPPYCOCK (B157)
We were lured in by its shiny bag. But after trying it, one taster said, “It starts weird, and it gets weirder.” Others felt pretty much the same. It doesn’t taste like popcorn; more like glue mixed with sugar—very thick and gloopy, like partmelted sugar at the bottom of your cup of tea. Verdict: Best left on the shelf.
GARRETT (B140)
If you don’t mind the high BK PICK level of sugar, you’ll love this buzzing brand. Our tasters could pick out Garrett’s unique style with just one bite. As you’d expect, the flavor is rich and caramel-y (make sure you have a glass of water close at hand), while the popcorn is fresh and crispy. Verdict: They sure know how to make popcorn but you’ll need to toss in other flavors to tone down the sweetness. G/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-8333 n
4
THE BOTTLE Brothers Toffee Apple Cider History: Brewed in the heart of cider country, in the South-west of England, the Brothers range of drinks are actually pear ciders or perrys, a traditional form of cider made from fermented pears rather than the usual apples. Around for centuries, perry declined in popularity at the start of the last century but has recently undergone a real surge in reputation. Coming from a family of brewers that stretches back 14 generations (their parents invented the cheesy 80s UK drink Baby Cham), Brothers was actually created by four brothers in Shepton Mallet, Somerset, which happens to be right next door to the site of the iconic Glastonbury music festival. Invited by the Glastonbury organizer, Michael Eavis, to open a stall selling their perry by one of the stages in 1995, the boys haven’t looked back. While traditional English perry is known for its dry notes,
14
the brand has found real popularity with their fusion offerings that include flavors like strawberry and this, one of their most popular labels, toffee apple. They claim their range is suitable for vegans, gluten-free and contains no artificial sweeteners, so it’s kind of good for you, too.
Taste: Despite the strong aroma, it’s actually not half as sickly as you’d imagine. Indeed the overriding image it evokes is of cream soda, maybe mixed in with a watered-down apple or pear juice. However, it’s definitely very sweet, almost like a dessert wine.
Appearance: This is a cider not an ale, so unsurprisingly it’s very clear with little or no head, despite lots of bubbles. The color is a copper-y or toffee brown, which turns almost orange when you hold the glass up to the light.
Overall: While the sweetness means we don’t think we’d be enjoying a session of these, it’s not as overpoweringly sweet as some fruit beers. The lack of excess fizz also makes it easier to drink than some other ciders. Maybe it’s best to enjoy this with some strong-flavored blue cheese or spicy food, as the sweetness offers a nice counterbalance to such rich tastes. Nick Measures
Smell: The sweet aromas of caramel and vanilla really overpower everything else, making us think of sweetshops and weird flavored sodas. There’s just the merest hint of fruit underneath. Mouthfeel: A bubbly hit to start out but it’s quite soft and fades quickly to leave a pretty dry palate.
Lowdown: B260-B280, 500ml, 4% Get it at: Barka, Paholyothin Soi 2, 081-483-4070
BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2014
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it's free! Peace
BK MAGAZINE NO. 518 FRIDAY, DEcEMBER 6, 2013. www.bkmagazine.com
Who’s to blame for bangkok’s basHEs, sCraPEs and jams?
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it's free!
Sir yes sir
BK MAGAZINE NO. 541 FRIDAY, MAY 30, 2014. www.bkmagazine.com
YOU LIKED BATTLE OF THE BURBS? YOU'LL LOVE THIS!
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it's free! Who’s in charge?
BK MAGAZINE NO. 539 FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014. www.bkmagazine.com
-INTOWN N TOW
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THE BEST PLACES TO EAT, DRINK AND SHOP
i 94
o so
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akhe
Sam
L
e Rd . gW
n Chae na
atta
own
T n in
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5/9/14 5:49 PM
it's free! New dawn?
BK MAGAZINE NO. 652 FRIDAY, AUGUST 12, 2016. www.bkmagazine.com
ONE YEAR LATER The impact of Bangkok’s biggest ever terrorist attack on life at the Erawan Shrine
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8/8/16 4:52 PM
bites TASTE TEST
3
Battle of the Buns
RUNNER UP!
YUCK!
2
Which takeaway salapao moosub (Chinese minced pork buns) are worth your baht? We put some of Bangkok’s most popular to a blind taste test. By BK Staff 1 1
BK PICK!
Waraporn (B22)
The bun: Though thick and flavorless, the texture’s soft and satisfying. The stuffing: Well-balanced between sweet and salty, finished with a hefty pinch of white pepper. We love the hard-boiled egg in the center, too.
4
5
Verdict: Well seasoned, well priced and well sized. Try 7/F, CentralWorld, Rama 1 Rd., 091-772-5722. Open daily 10:30am-9pm
2
7
7-Eleven (B17)
The bun: Way too thick, dry and floury. Don’t expect to get any minced pork in the first bite. The stuffing: Salty and overwhelmed by soy sauce. You can barely taste anything else. Verdict: Enough to put you off salapao for life.
3
The bun: A bit chewy and also a little sour, like it’s been fermented. The stuffing: Juicy and fatty but really sweet. It reminds us of gun chiang (Chinese sausage) Verdict: Fatty and sweet. Located at the entrance of Yaowaphanit Rd., Yaowarat, 085-132-4342. Open daily 6:30am till all buns sell out
6 Hong Kong Dim Sum by Hua Seng Hong (B20)
The bun: Flavorless, flaky and hard to swallow. The stuffing: Tastes like a badly seasoned gyoza. Verdict: Disappointing
Citywide
6
5 Tae Lao Chai Lee (B19)
Mayflower (B90 for two)
The bun: Heavenly fluffy and melt-in-yourmouth soft. The stuffing: Packed with flavor but perhaps too heavy on the herbs. Verdict: Impressive taste but pretty small, even if there are two. G/F, Dusit Thani, Silom Rd., 02-200-9000 ext. 2345. Open daily 11:30am-2:30pm and 6-10pm. BTS Sala Daeng / MRT Silom
4 Salaopao Khun Ewe (B20)
The bun: Thin and slightly sweet. The stuffing: Very generous, and the minced pork also seems less fatty than most. Mixed with salted egg yolk and garlic, it’s pretty delicious.
135/5 Charoenkrung Soi 16 (Itsaranuphap), 02-266-2444. Open daily 6am-6pm
7 Din Tai Fung (B94 for three)
The bun: Satisfyingly chewy but weirdly seasoned. The stuffing: Reminds us of xiao long bao (broth-filled dumplings). Verdict: Like a bad imitation of xiao long bao. Just stick to the real one. 7/F, CentralWorld, Rama 1 Rd., 02-646-1282. Open daily 11am-10pm. BTS Siam / Chit Lom
Note: All buns were eaten on the day of purchase and reheated for equal periods of time.
Verdict: Traditional and tasty. 4 Naret Rd., 02-6316168. Open Mon-Sat 7am-7pm
BUNS Top Spots for Salapao
HONG BAO
CHEF MAN
KO UAN
Unlike most Chinese restaurants, Hong Bao serves its dim sum not only for lunch but in the evening, too. Further breaking with tradition, its bright white dining space is decorated with classic chandeliers and European paintings from the 18th century. Do order the famous salapao lava (golden salty egg bun, B85), which manages a wonderful balance between sweet creaminess and salty egg yolk.
Excellent preparation, fresh ingredients and perfect timing make even the most basic shrimp dumplings here exciting. Located in the Eastin Grand Sathorn Hotel, the atmosphere is fairly vibrant thanks to a large open kitchen where a small and frenzied army of cooks prepare the Cantonese dishes. We really like the pao hima (fried pork buns, order them in advance, B120): they’re perfectly fried, resulting in a heavenly fluffy touch. Make your reservation early.
Hailing from Hat Yai, this well-known bao-maker does fresh buns in a blue Chinese-chic café. Along with the traditional steamed bao, they also have some creative recipes like mantou krapao gai kai dao (B30), a soft bun, topped with classic pad krapao gai (fried chicken with basil) and a runny fried egg.
Soi Promchit, Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-662-3565
68 Sukhumvit Soi 21, 02-664-3231
3/F, Eastin Grand Sathorn, Sathorn Rd., 02-212-3741. BTS Surasak
BK Magazine Friday, January 23, 2015
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1/19/15 5:39 PM
it's free! Happy holidays!
BK MAGAZINE NO. 648 FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2016. www.bkmagazine.com
PHRA KHANONG Why Ekkamai’s neighbor is hot property
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7/8/16 6:07 PM
bites & blends
DOWNLOAD OUR BEST EATS GUIDE FOR FREE And discover Bangkok's best casual restaurants. bkmagazine.com/besteats
NEW CHEF
Golden Oldies The new head chef at RE 234, the Rama V-inspired house in Phrom Phong, has given the menu a sharper Thai focus. Under the helm of Phuket Karnjanaviroje (whose background includes stints at the Mandarin Oriental here and in London), out goes the hodgepodge of Euro and Thai classics in favor of a shorter menu big on well-detailed, produce-driven Thai dishes. The pad kaprao (B190), for example, only uses red holy basil, bird-eye chilis and Thai garlic, while his gaeng ranjuan (shrimp paste soup, B250) features three-hour-simmered beef rib fingers. Now that the beautiful restaurant has equally beautiful food to match, we recommend a revisit. 45 Sukhumvit Soi 24, 02-117-2829. www.fb.com/re234bkk
RESTAURANT
CAFE
RESTAURANT
In the Cellar
Coffee Capital
Wander Yonder
Soho Hospitality (the group behind Above Eleven, Charcoal and Havana Social) fills the Italian gap in Ari with a casual pizza and pasta house. Themed after an Italian wine cellar, the wood-andbrick-heavy Cantina features hundreds of wine bottles, which are sold from B170 by the glass. Food-wise, the kitchen matches the cozy vibe with simple dishes like bruschetta with San Daniele ham and stracciatella cheese (B280), smoked burrata salad with heirloom tomatoes (B440), pasta (from B240) and Neapolitan-style pizza (from B280). Don’t miss their mascarpone e tartufo pizza (B520) which features mascarpone cheese, mozzarella cheese, truffle paste, rocket leaves and San Daniele ham. 4 Ari Samphan Soi 3, 02-278-0250. www.fb.com/cantinabkk
The fifth cafe from the Chiang Mai-hailing coffee roasters Pacamara is set to be its flagship branch. Tucked down a little alley off Thonglor Soi 25, the two-story standalone house is divided into two zones: a cafe and a coffee academy, called Specialty Coffee Lab. You’ll find both classic espresso-based drinks (from B95) as well as slow-bar coffee (B120), made using rotating beans roasted in-house. Do try the special coffees like the Snow Cold brew (shaved frozen milk on coffee jelly, topped with a shot of cold brew coffee, B130), cola-infused cold brew (B120) and nitro cold brew (B120). They also serve brunch dishes like truffle eggs Benedict (B250) and scrambled eggs (B230) as well as burgers (B330), pasta (from B215) and ribs (B430-650). 66 Soi Thonglor 25, 02-048-5900. www.fb.com/pacamaracoffee
Not far from Chinatown's rising hipster haven Soi Nana, Wanderlust's kitchen is helmed by a chef with 17 years' experience of Australian coffee shop culture. Phunchita Kamonto (also of Baba Eating House in Pattaya) rolls out Melbourne cafe-inspired dishes with flavor twists. Her chia pudding (B160), for example, also features coconut milk and tropical fruits, while the skillet-served pancake (B180) mixes the crispy baby Dutch pancake style with America's thicker, fluffier interpretation. Also try the eight-hourbraised pulled beef burger (B240), which features a kick from Cajun spices. On top of espresso (B70) and drip coffee (B100), you can also find drink creations like “The Metro” (espresso with tonic and orange juice, B120) and avocado smoothies (B140). 149-151 Rama 4 Rd., 089-757-7770. www.fb.com/onederlust
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BK Magazine Friday, October 28, 2016
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it's free! What’s your safe word?
BK MAGAZINE NO. 577 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com
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it's free! Row your boat
BK MAGAZINE NO. 585 FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com
RIVERSIDE REGENERATION How the Chao Phraya is changing for the better
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HOSTEL
Cool Yard It seems hostels are not just places for tourists to sleep anymore; they’re also hangout spots for locals. Tucked down Phahon Yothin Soi 5 in ever-happening Ari, The Yard Bangkok is a new hostel with a shipping-container façade and a large garden for day-and-night activities. Rooms include the boutique hotelstyle private garden for two (B1,500/room/night), private room for four featuring two double-bunk beds (B2,500/room/night), mixed four-bed dorm (B650/ person/night) and six-girl room (B550/person/night). The highlight for us locals is the spacious yard where you can spend the day on your laptop with a bottle of Singha (B75). The owners say there’s also a proper coffee shop to come. 51 Phahon Yothin Soi 5, 089-677-4050. theyardhostel.com
FASHION
BEAUTY
GROOMING
It’s Personal
Pastel Perfect
Hot Cut
Founded by former singer and actress Buachompoo Ford and her friends including Plearnwan owner Patra Sahawat and GMM Grammy stylist Siwaporn “Mamm” Moonnoi, Tuaton is the latest streetwear brand to join Siam Square. The label, whose name means “identity” in Thai, offers simple men’s and women’s pieces that are easy to mix and match. Highlights of the first collection include the grey off-shoulder top (B590), olive short jumpsuit (B1,290) and brown linen suit (B1,890). 1/F, Siam Square One, Rama 1 Rd., 02-001-5707. Open daily 11am-9pm. BTS Siam
Chic US cosmetic brand M.A.C. has a new collection that harkens back to the 60s through pastel shades in products like creamy peach lipstick (B830), Doll Me Up pastel mint green nail lacquer (B650) and Wow Factor lavender eye-paint pot in satin (B800). Spanning a total 16 colors from sparkly burgundy to intense black, the Pro Longwear Fluidline gel liners (B850) are said to be long-wearing and smudge-proof. Released at the same time, the Eyes on M.A.C. eye palette (B1,850) is a combination of nine eyeshadow shades ideal for a smokey-eye look. Available at M.A.C. Cosmetic counters nationwide; try M/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd. BTS Siam
Situated right beside Carl’s Jr. on Soi Thaniya, the retro-styled David No. 5 is the new spot for street barber Yothin Kulsamrong “Yo”. It’s open during the unusual hours of 5pm-4am and any rockabilly style will set you back B200: no shampoo; just cut, razor, set and dry. Yo can design your look or you can choose from the shop’s picture menu of classic cuts. Reservations are recommended as there are only two seats and two barbers. Feel like just walking in? Near the parking gate between Yada Building and Thaniya Plaza, Silom Rd., 093-001-2371. BTS Sala Daeng
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BK Magazine Friday, May 8, 2015
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it's free!
♥
BK MAGAZINE NO. 604 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com
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Let them Eat Cake! Longchamp’s guide to the most beautiful French pastries in Bangkok.
Cream Dream Is it a blancmange? Is it a petit four? No, it’s a coconut sable, only this one comes from the pastry kitchens of Issaya La Patisserie, where they know a thing or two about creating incredible ThaiFrench fusion flavors in the prettiest of packages. It’s called the Mont D’Or (B170) and tastes divine. The bag: Le Pliage Heritage Crossbody Bag Issaya La Patisserie, 5/F, Central Embassy, Phloen Chit Rd., 02-160-5636. BTS Phloen Chit
Sugar Sugar Hot Chocolate Paris Mikki knows how to do dessert properly. Take some chocolate. Add more chocolate. Pipe out on perfectly prepared wafers of sweet pastry. Decorate with even more chocolate. Between the indulgent Philip 70 or the creamy Philip 82 (B180), we choose both.
Say “macaron”; think Pierre Herme. The man is singlehandedly responsible for the world’s macaron mania, and once you try these delectable triple-decker sweet sensations (B980/7pcs), you’ll understand exactly why. Rose, caramel, dark chocolate—all taste wonderful! The bag: Le Pliage Heritage Luxe Crossbody Bag Pierre Herme, G/F, Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-003-6444. BTS Phrom Phong
The bag: Le Pliage Cuir Handbag Paris Mikki, Metha Wattana Building, 27 Sukhumvit Soi 19, 088-870-0020. BTS Asok
Layered Flavor Cream? Good. Puff pastry? Good. Fresh raspberries? Good. So get yourself over to Fauchon right this instant to feast on this triumph of a mille-fuille (B220)— there’s a reason these patisserie maestros have been pulling in the wellheeled dessert-loving masses since 1880. The bag: Honore 404 Panthere Handbag Fauchon, G/F, Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-0036033. BTS Phrom Phong
Cherry Bliss Glistening with scarlet goodness and begging to be eaten in a heartbeat, the Cherry Ripe (B200) from Patisserie Rosie is a scoffable blend of heavenly cherry-flavored mousse, sponge cake and decadent dark chocolate. Love at first bite! The bag: Roseau Croco Mini Crossbody Bag Patisserie Rosie, 113/2 Thonglor Soi 10, 092-542-9900
Turn up to any dessert date looking fabulous thanks to the latest collection of delicious leather handbags from Longchamp. At the new, 160-sq-meter flagship Longchamp boutique in the Emquartier, you can find all these bags as well as the brand’s latest, ready-to-wear collection, shoes and travel collection. Discover the latest look of Longchamp now at the new Longchamp Flagship store at G/F, Helix Quartier Building, The Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-003-6166. Open daily 10am-8pm. BTS Phrom Phong
BK Magazine Friday, July 29, 2016
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ADVERTORIAL
CentralWorld
8. Chocoholic's Party
Freeze the Summer Heat
Climb the Great Wall of Chocolate Move over Hansel and Gretel. Here comes a chocolate forest, a wall made up of 1,000 pieces of chocolate, a splendid tea party, and a chocolate sculpting competition from world-famous chefs. You can make your own chocolate. You can sip tea with your pinky raised. Or you can slurp up cocoa while munching on trays of treats.
Beat the heat with these
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26 April-6 May 2016, Central Court, Eden 1, Eden 2, Atrium
music, fashion and food events taking place at CentralWorld this month.
9. Thailand Toy Expo 2016 Get Your Game On Thailand Toy Expo 2016 is for the young and young at heart. The largest toy expo in Southeast Asia will roll out the top collections from 50 brands worldwide along with heavy discounts on CentralWorld’s Big Saving Day (up to 80%). You’re bound to go nuts for all the collectibles and limited edition anime and superhero models but please be a good kid and leave a little something for the actual children out there.
4-8 May 2016, at all event zones
Hot promotion to welcome summer (today-30 April 2016) Get a chance to win a Freezing trip to Finland at Snow Castle Hotel and see the Northern Lights for 8 days/5nights when spend in every 1,000 baht
Exclusive at CentralWorld Spend 6,000 baht and get free a shoe bag designed by Marie Claire (worth 1,000 baht) Special offers for Mastercard holders. *Terms and conditions apply.
For more information, please contact the redemption booth at Eden 1 (1/F)
4. Vogue Loves X CentralWorld
6. Food Night Market by Health Cuisine
Keep Up with the Fashion Editors
Dine Under a Sky Full of Stars
For the first time in Thailand, the most-respected magazine in the fashion industry is about to throw a summer party combining hot picks, a juice bar and a pop-up store. Keep your eyes peeled for ‘Vogue Loves’ tags on this season's must-have items and be first in line to grab limited-edition merchandise at the Vogue Pop Up Store, whose proceeds go to the Rama Foundation. And if the jostling gets too intense and your muscles get sore from carrying those shopping bags, make sure you stop by Vogue Juice Bar for their signature drink (get it when spending B2,000 at CentralWorld, 9-10 April).
CentralWorld is about to be lit up by a myriad stars and a constellation of food stalls (spoiler alert: it’s a mini-planetarium slash foodie’s night market). Whether you’re into late-night munchies or a fullblown meal, you’ll have 100 pop-up stalls to explore. The best way to wrap up your journey into the midsummer night’s Milky Way? A bottle of delicious creamy milk from Milk Bar by Health Cuisine.
5. M2F Presents Bangkok Songkran Festival 2016
Sharpen your Bartending Skills
6-17 April 2016, Skylink 2nd floor
1. Japan Summer Food Festival
2. Stylistic Summer Pop up 2016
3. Swarovski Sparkling Couture from Dubai
Chow Down on Japanese Street Food
Stay Frosty with the Cool Kids
Admire Siamese Haute Design
Is your Instagram hankering for enormous caterpillar rolls and mountains of tempura flakes? Chomp on all things Japanese as CentralWorld welcomes 50 of Japan’s best-known street stalls from major cities like Hokkaido, Kobe, Kyoto, and Okinawa. See, you can feast on richly marbled Kobe beef and fresh giant King crabs from Hokkaido without booking a plane ticket.
Ice breaking competitions, pop-up stores, and rock music in the same place might sound a bit overwhelming, but here’s how to make the best of this summer pop-up. First, browse the temporary fashion booths for the latest summer collections from top high-street labels like Topshop, Da+PP and GAP. Then cool yourself down with an ice-breaking challenge, where you can break giant ice cubes to win must-have items or vouchers. Finally, end the day with a head-banging rock performance by Lomosonic (presented by H&M).
The Swarovski x Thai Designers ‘Sparkling Couture’ exhibition sees the cream of our local designers team up with the luxury crystal makers from Austria. Known for its collaborations with celebrities and designers ranging from Katy Perry to Jean-Paul Gaultier, Swarovski has invited celebrated Thai designers like Vatit Itthi, Iconic, 77th and Sirena to create masterpieces decorated with Swarovski crystals. Exhibited in Dubai last year, this is the first time they will be shown here. And don’t forget to bring your designer shades. This exhibition is guaranteed to sparkle and dazzle.
2-3 April 2016, Square B
3-9 April 2016, Square A
Foam it Up It’s going to be the hottest summer in decades (50 years, to be precise) and the government has told us to save water during Songkran. But fear not, the solution comes in the shape of millions of bubbles. Covering three distinct zones: Bangkok’s largest and bubbliest foam party, carnival games and a concert with big names like Potato, Big Ass and Slot Machine.
22-24 April 2016, Square A
7. Diageo World Class 2016 The final round of the prestigious bar competition is drawing near and cocktail enthusiasts out there are saving the date. All the greatest bartenders in the country are expected to show off their skills and execute their newest recipes to win the first prize. To follow in their footsteps, keep a keen eye on the pros to pick up a thing or two. And if that sounds like too much effort, you can always just order a stiff drink from the bar.
25-26 April 2016, Groove @ CentralWorld
13-15 April 2016, Square A-D
5-10 April 2016, Skylink 2nd floor
ADVERTORIAL
Right by your side Superstar actor, film producer, businessman and all-round nice guy Ananda Everingham explains why the Huawei Mate 8 is a social luminary’s best friend. The man whose face has graced a thousand billboards and ensured sell-out screenings for some of Thailand’s biggest ever movies, Ananda Everingham, recently switched to the Mate 8 while shooting a remake of a Korean romantic comedy TV series called Princess Hours. He’s been using Huawei’s sleek new beacon of power, clever design and spangly gold-ness for a couple of weeks now—half in Bangkok at his production agency, and half at his Chiang Mai family home, where he also now runs the rustic-cool Hotel Yayee boutique hotel—and reckons it’s about as good as phones get for guys who spend as much time on the road as he does. “When I’m traveling is the best opportunity I have to get to grips with new technology,” he explains. “I’ve had the time to get used to Mate 8 and the Huawei operating system, especially on long trips. The overall impression is fast, flexible power. It’s a great tool, for travel, for work and for multitasking.” The North is Ananda’s natural stomping ground, and provides him with a space to escape the pressures that come from Bangkok’s film industry. “Chiang Mai’s become a bit of a hub for me,” he says. “I work there on projects for my production company and travel directly to Vietnam and KL for directorial meetings. My travel upcountry has given me more time to enjoy the phone in the ways Huawei intended.”
Why’s that? “I’m not a slave to technology, but I spend a lot of time with the phone screen and laptop screen; a lot of film and TV scripts, a lot of emails to respond to. Anything that makes my tasks easier is something I appreciate, as time is always limited for anything that involves TV production. And this thing has a processor called Kirin 950 which is why this thing is so fast.” Kirin 950 is the name of a chipset, the heart of this slick beast. Combined with a gorgeous six-inch screen and a kick-ass camera with full HD recording, Mate 8 is both a business platform and a pro creative tool, offering inspired ways to capture stuff when out and about. Its battery also provides a mammoth 17 hours’ worth of HD video playback, so forget about toting around an annoying power bar. If you want a taste of what the camera’s capable of, check out Ananda’s flawlessly cool Instagram (@anandeveringham), where perfectly framed snaps of the socialite lifestyle sit side by side with cool scenes of upcountry exploits. “I love photography so Instagram is a big part of my life; more so than Facebook. I focus on the things that make me happy. For people who are expressive and enjoy the freedom to try new technologies, I can honestly say this is the new benchmark, the new smartphone gold standard. You don’t need to be a tech-head to benefit from it; its performance is there for everyone to enjoy, especially the camera.”
That camera is a 16-megapixel whopper boasting a proper Sony F2.0 lens, slow-motion capture, image stabilization and low-light shooting. The results speak for themselves, but thanks to the Android platform, creatives like Mr Everingham can also get a little help from savvy app developers. “The top-end of the smartphone market is populated by brand-chasers. I love Android because it attracts flexible developers, and it doesn’t tie users to a particular ecosystem. This is really important for shooting video—for set design inspiration, for location scouting, prepping a light design in pre-production. It’s all available on Mate 8, like a pre-visualization tool; a creative palette to save time on the actual production that follows. That feeling of not being locked down makes the latest gen of Android feel very open, and on this phone it runs like an utter dream. All you notice is the power, and the snappiness of how it responds.”
All this sounds strange coming from a guy whose life sometimes seems like the perfect embodiment of slow living. “I’m not a techie, and was actually a fairly late adopter to the whole smartphone addiction thing. But I’m becoming more tech-savvy as I get older because my time is more valuable, and so the way I use it becomes more efficient. That simply gives me more free time to enjoy doing the things I want.” And that, for now, is running one of the sexiest little hotels in Chiang Mai— an affordable slice of point-perfect local design in the trendy Nimman area. “Having the hotel is fun, and I enjoy the design and management aspects of it,” he explains. “It’s something I always wanted to do, and gives me another reason to be upcountry. The weather’s amazing right now so it’s a good time to enjoy outdoor sports; my family; my home.”
Killer Looks Just feel that gorgeous metallic unibody design with chamfered edges and a luxurious sandblasted finish. It all makes for an incredibly slim phone with 7.9mm edges despite the high-capacity battery and bleeding-edge camera. Now you just need to decide if you want it in Champagne Gold, Moonlight Silver, Space Gray or Mocha Brown. All Screen The unique 2.5D Diamong Cut Glass screen takes up 85% of the phone’s surface, making the Mate 8 Huawei’s most compact phone ever. And with a 6-inch diagonal, the high resolution (1080 x 1920 pixels) adds up to a superlative 368 points per inch density. On and On The Mate 8’s 4000mAh battery can play high-definition video for 17 hours straight, and navigate the web for 20. That means heavy users will get two days OF use, while regular users could go three days without a charge. Shoot to Thrill Like what you see? The Mate 8 features Sony’s latest 16 MP IMX298 sensor. With a wide f/2.0 aperture, a large 1/2.8-inch sensor and optical stabiliZation, results are consistently beyond expectations, even in low-light conditions. Take the Fast Track The Mate 8’s new Kirin 950 chipset makes it the first smartphone to feature TSMC’s 16 nm FinFET Plus chip technology. The octa-core processor consists of four A72 2.3 GHz cores and four A53 1.8 GHz cores, making it 30 percent faster than its predecessor. At YouR Fingertips Tap into your phone with the completely redesigned fingerprint sensor or switch to split-screen mode with a quick swipe of your knuckle. Always Connected With support for more frequency bands than any other dual-SIM phone, the Mate 8 is the perfect travel companion for those who expect lightning fast connectivity wherever they go.
WHERE MAGAZINE.