VIVA
Bangkok December 4th 2013
ZOOM Rooftop
Maserati’s Palace Appointment
Suwannee by Sam Kenneth Cole
Motor Expo Thara Thong
Moulin
Your Fortnightly What s On Guide to Bangkok Page 1 www.bangkokscene.com
We re One Year Old
VIVA Bangkok has come a long way in 12 months our first issue was only 14 pages! That s it in the top left hand corner, and we revisited the scene of the first cover this week funnily enough, to get a photograph of Charm Osathanond at the Maserati launch. Many of you will no doubt know it s the fountain at Phaya Thai Palace. And today marks our biggest issue yet at 64 pages. Thanks for all your support, and hope you like the new fortnightly format. We want VIVA to get bigger and better. Here s to another great year! Cheers, Paul.
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Daily Events Click on event for more information
White Truffle Promotion @ Jojo, St. Regis. Chef Carlo Valenziano presents an exclusive menu featuring the highly soughtafter White Truffle from Alba, especially flown in from the Italian region of Piedmont. Until December 15th. Bonjour French Fair 2013 @ QSNCC. The biggest French consumer product fair in Thailand. December 12th to 15th. Themed Nights @ Romsai, Banyan Tree. During December their culinary brigade will surprise you with some amazing themed nights: an Italian gastronomic feast from 25 December, Chinese delights from 912 December and 1619 December sample a Spanish dining experience . Dinner only. Butoh Women: The 8th International Butoh Festival @ BACC. Opens on December 6th with three Butoh workshops over the weekend! Dec. 6, 18:0021:00 "Into the Bottom Body" with Bo Kittiphon (Thailand) Dec. 7. 14:0017:00 "Zone 0" with Yuko Kawamoto (Japan) Dec. 8, 14:0017: "Emotions" with Syv Bruzeau (France) Johnny Spitz Live in Bangkok @ Novotel Bangkok Ploenchit Sukhumvit. Awardwinning Australian solo guitarist & vocalist entertainer Johnny Spitz will be performing renditions of a vast collection of songs and musical styles, nightly from 2nd till 11th December. Picture Perfect: A Photography Series Exhibition @ BACC. A joint photo Exhibition by Nattapas Jirasatitwarakul, Piyatat Hemmatat and Viriya Chotpanyavisut. Until January 3rd. BANGKO{K}LLECTION @ ATTA Gallery. A jewellery exhibition by MarieLouise Kristensen (DK) who returns with her newest collection dedicated to her experience and memory of Bangkok. Until January 4th. Chef Signature Dishes @ Am Cafe, Ambassador Hotel. Throughout December you can sample dishes including Grilled Chicken Breast with Cheese Fondue and Deep Fried Fish Salad Salsa Mexican Style. The Dreamer @ Tribeca RestoBar. An exhibition of contemporary paintings by Suthirak Rithraksa. Until December 20th. Inhabitation @ Speedy Grandma. A group photographic exhibition. Until December 20th. Last Confession @ Moose. Exhibition by Parada Hongladarom. November 6th to December 6th. Exotic Lemongrass Cuisine @ Basil, Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit. Throughout November and December at basil, Chef Kesinee invites lovers of authentic Thai cuisine to savour a selection of her exotic lemongrass dishes. Exotic Indian Flavours @ Flava, Dream Hotel. Discover delicious traditional Indian flavours and spices. November 11th to December 31st. Just Abstract @ Eat Me Restaurant. Group exhibition. Until December 29th. 64 Distinct Harmony 56 @ V64 Art Studio. Special Group Exhibition to mark the second anniversary of the art collective. Just Abstract @ Eat Me Restaurant. Group exhibition. Until December 29th. Page 4 www.bangkokscene.com
Wednesday December 4th Martin Garrix @ Levels. Hollandbased youngblood. Retox Sessions: Danny Faber @ Glow. Danny Faber has been a well respected DJ in the Berlin music scene for more than ten years. Jazz in the Theatre @ Aksra Theatre King Power. Two concerts from two world class jazz artists: John di Martino and Simone Kopmajer. Unlock The Heineken Platinum Deck Party @ Demo. Featuring DJ Fubar. A preparty event to get a platinum ticket for Sensation Wicked Wonderland at Bitec in February. Hi So Ladies Night @ Sofitel So. Ladies get a free glass of Chandon every Wednesday. Wonder Women @ Marshmallow. Ladies get four free Sangrias every Wednesday in this ultimate ladies night out. C.R.E.A.M. @ Escobar Nunglen. Every Wednesday. 90's To The Future! Bangkok Invaders @ Velvet. Every Wednesday. Ladies First @ The Club Khaosan. With Lisa Bluestar. Every Wednesday ladies get free entry and a cocktail of their choice. Modelo Qorner @ Q Bar. Models Get Eight Complimentary Drinks! Every Wednesday. Hip Hop Night with DJ Master D @ Axis and Spin. Wednesday nights in the Sky Bar. Let s Get High @ Muse. DJ Faahsai s high energy every Wednesday gig. House of Soul @ Nest Rooftop. Every Wednesday. Special ladies drinks all night. Free entry. Sound Shade 7 Wednesdays @ Le Bar, Sofitel Sukhumvit. Vinyl Pharmacy @ Apoteka Lux. Old Skool hiphop Wednesdays. Girl Gangs @ Narz. Ladies get five free drinks before midnight! Super Foxes Ladies Night @ Bash. Belted, buckled and booted! Above Eleven Ladies Night @ Above Eleven. Salsa music and 50% discount for ladies drinks. High Heels and Lipstick Night @ Platinum Lounge, Novotel Bangkok Platinum Hotel. Every Wednesday. Ladies Night @ Q Bar. Every Wednesday. Ladies free entry all night plus two free drinks. Page 5 www.bangkokscene.com
KENNETH COLE FIRST THAI FLAGSHIP STORE UNVEILED AT CENTRAL WORLD
After staging one of the mosttalked about runway shows of New York Fashion Week, Kenneth Cole opened its first flagship store in the region at The Central World Mall in Bangkok. Bringing the feel of New York to Thailand, store concept conveys the contemporary feel of the Kenneth Cole brand. Mixing modern elements and technology with vintage materials, the store perfectly captures the urban essence of New York. The design concept connects customers with both the aesthetic and the voice of the brand. The storefront is a modern interpretation of vintage New York vernacular. The vintage references become modern through the refined steel sash window frames and white acrylic brick pattern with translucent grout lines; a nod to the brand s New York roots. The store welcomes customers with a vintage factory feel. Torched white oak flooring with a textured finish in varied hues and shades of grey; white painted brick; and raw and oxidized steel are reminiscent of a typical factory floor construction. The materials have textures that are used as layers to create a sophisticated environment. The wood is used as a mask over a portion of the brick wall with areas that are removed to expose the brick; this highlights the displays and visuals. A perfect mix of contemporary and vintage, light grey lacquer boxes are positioned in a floating pattern in front of the white brick to highlight the visual displays. Functional art pieces serve as an eye catching store element, as well as a way to connect the past to the present.
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Items like oversized industrial carts with glass tops, and a white Carrera marble table with cast iron factory table legs, further blend the modern and the industrial into one Experience. To celebrate the opening of Kenneth Cole s first flagship store in Thailand, the designer travelled to Bangkok to attend the grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony with Pacifica Elements Management and Central World Management. Kenneth Cole presented a preview of the Spring 2014 collection at the event.
The Spring 2014 collection is centred around the idea that Your Point of View Depends on Your Points of View. The lives we lead today are mediated increasingly through our use of modern technology. The freeplay of new media and the instantaneous documentary possibilities of social networking platforms allow us all to curate the moment. Now everyone is a stylist and an art director. The world is consumed with myriad points of view. And through everemerging technologies, our points of view can now be made available to everyone, everywhere.
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The Kenneth Cole Spring 2014 collection for women and men embraces this idea by celebrating the creative energy that the digital age embodies. The collections recognize that New York, the metropolis where Kenneth Cole was born and from where the brand continues to take its inspiration, is itself buzzing with a positive force. Kenneth Cole reflects the upbeat urban energy of this city of the world, with its blend of cultures and confident, freethinkers. By accessing the archive, visitors are able to dynamically search any Kenneth Cole advertisement. The hub also provides a sneak peak to This is Kenneth Cole Production, a coffee table book celebrating Kenneth Cole s 30 year career fashion and social engagement. From the upstart of the fashion designer who built his brand from humble beginnings in 1982 into a memorable brand powerhouse.
Photos by Paul Hutton Page 8 www.bangkokscene.com
El Osito Celebration American Style Deli and La Monita Mexican Restaurant Fourth Anniversary
Owners Billy Bautista and Kasama Laopanich celebrate the birthday of their two Ploenchit establishments at a special party held on November 24th. Regular patrons were feted in an evening celebration featuring sandwiches, tapas, hamburgers, soups, Mexican favourites, wine and cocktails in the soi outside El Osito and La Fiesta Monita, which sit side by side in the Mahatun Plaza.
Singer Paul Ewing to Perform at Phuket King s Cup Regatta
Paul Ewing, awardwinning singersongwriter from Scotland, and Artist Ambassador for the world s largest children s charity, World Vision UK, will perform at the closing party of the 2013 Phuket King s Cup Regatta on Friday 6th December 2013 at 7 pm, at Kata Beach Resort & Spa. This special performance marks the final day of racing and subsequent award presentation, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display and highenergy closing party to be attended by over 1000 sailors, VIPs and guests. Paul has enjoyed considerable success in Thailand. In 2012 he was commissioned to write the Birthday Song for His Majesty the King of Thailand, entitled Love Eternally. His Grammy Awardwinning team were again involved in production for this tribute song, and Paul was also invited to sing at the prestigious New Year s Countdown Concert at Central World, Bangkok to an audience of 100,000 people broadcast across the whole of Thailand on all major television networks. Paul will be supported by his band, which comprises keyboard player Luke Smith, guitarist Mike Brown, who performed with George Michael at the closing ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games, bassist Clint Williams, and drummer and Bangkok resident Kevin Biddle. Page 9 www.bangkokscene.com
Thursday December 5th Bomi Live in Bangkok @ Cosmic Cafe. Bomi and her very cool band. Catch them before they head up to the Big Mountain Music Festival. Musika Requests @ Nest Rooftop. The six piece band are back with a Night of special requests. Dark Groove Alliance @ Dickinson s Culture Cafe. Every first Thursday of the month. With Kani, Mody, Moca, Kanabis. HHH Thursday @ The Club Khaosan. Every Thursday catch the latest hip hop and house beats. THU @ Grease. Every Thursday with DJ Sweed and DJ Monster P. Thursday Nights With Sunju Hargun @ Theatre Bar. Boys Gone Wild @ Woobar. Every Thursday Buy One Get One Free. Disco: All Night Long @ Velvet. Thursdays Free entry with student ID. Son of Lucifer @ Bash. Every Thursday midnight till late. With DJs Christian Sinco and Tan. Thursday Live @ Nest Rooftop. Johnny and The Ill Gotten Gains. Fashion Night @ Axis and Spin. Ladies get two free drinks. De Modelism @ Demo. Free drinks for models. Every Thursday, with DJs Space Monkey and Skinny Mark. Uni Night @ Dickinson s. Every Thursday. With live DJs. Gossip Girls @ Gossip Bar. Weekly Gossip Girls ladies night! Ambar Ladies Night Fiesta @ Four Points by Sheraton. Free Sangria! F Party @ Love F Bar. Exclusive models night with free shisha. Future Funk @ Grease. Every Thursday some seriously funky tunes. Funk Soul Brother Thursdays @ Playground Bubbles and Mixology. Vibetown @ Route 66. Every Thursday mayhem, sexy people, unlimited drinks, offthewall jammin beats and four DJs. Too Sexy Thursday @ Levels. Every Thursday Three Free Drinks for Ladies before Midnight. Model Night @ Velvet Nightclub. Every Thursday. In The Loop @ Q Bar. Every Thursday with two for one drinks. Page 10 www.bangkokscene.com
Friday December 6th
The Spirit of the Festive Season @ InterContinental Hotel. BCO Charity Concert and Gala Dinner. Phatfunk Drum and Bass @ Glow. With DJ Nez from Singapore. Southside @ Velvet. The group that brings you southern hiphop culture. Mac DeMarco @ Cosmic Cafe. Also featuring Yellow Fang live. Midway Indochina Music Festival 2013 @ Phitsanulok. Flashing Lights @ Demo. When beauties become black sheep! Glow 2 Da Flow @ The Voice 88. Glow in the Dark Party. Sqweez Animal @ Cloud47. The duo will perform their massive hits. Flash Friday Nights @ KU DE TA. Glitz and Glamour with DJs Tommy Nori and Master D. Friday Nights: DJ Moudy @ Theatre Bar. Groovy Deep House Sounds. Flying Friday @ Dream Hotel. A new regular Friday night theme. Brazilian Night @ Koi Fashion Lounge. Every Friday with DJ Ashiq and DJ Briz. Whisky Blues @ Whisgars. Every Friday with Keith Nolan s Love Gone Wrong! Fresh n Funky @ Marshmallow. Every Friday with DJ Markus. Mon Cheri Models Night @ Narz. Every Friday night. Countdown to Sixth Anniversary @ Wip168. Every Friday with a different DJ lineup. Kinky Electrik @ Bash. Every Friday with DJ Mikey Mike. Page 11 www.bangkokscene.com
Thoroughbred at the Palace Maserati Introduces New Quattroporte at Majestic Phaya Thai Palace Cocktail Party Maserati s latest creation was unveiled in all its splendour at an elegant bash at Bangkok s Phaya Thai Palace on November 21st. The sylish car combines sporting performance with ultra deluxe styling, and is a worthy successor to the Italian manufacturer s masterpieces, retaining a streamlined, absolutely dynamic look. The front is immediately recognisable: the traditional Maserati oval grille is prevalent, with convex vertical bars, leading on to the majestic bonnet and the new front light assembly, with LED day lights.
Style and elegance are combined with muscular curves, with three air vents leading to the allLED rear lights and the integral boot spoiler. The interior is high in design, quality, and craftsmanship, with luxury wood panelwork and soft leather upholstery, whilst being dominated by technical innovation that transforms a journey into a unique experience, with relaxation and excitement guaranteed. Ample space for rear passengers also ensures the ability to stretch one s legs.
Photos by Paul Hutton
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Photos Courtesy of Maserati
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MOULIN FUSION CUISINE HOTSPOT
Upon entering the confines of Moulin, Thonglor s latest trendy hangout, it is immediately apparent that the brains behind the establishment has an eye for design and a sense of pizzazz. After meeting owner Chompol Serimont and learning of his background in the New York fashion business, everything falls into place. Chompol has spent the majority of his life in the United States, attending the New York Fashion Institute of Technology, launching his own fashion collection for women in 1995, and designing the clothes for the inaugural episode of the cult comedy Sex and the City . A men s apparel range then followed, in 1999, after which Chompol was approached by Fifth Avenue Pork Tenderloin With Couscous, Grilled Vegetables and Salad
boutique hotel Chambers to design their front of house uniforms. Chompol s fashion has been featured in magazines throughout the world, and his clothing can be found in leading boutiques in America, Japan and here in Thailand (Kitsch by Chompol Serimont is featured at The Emporium). After returning to the city of his birth in recent years, he set out to try his hand at restaurant design, with Moulin being the end product. A tantalising blend of American raunchiness, French chic and Japanese tradition has been incorporated in both the décor and the cuisine, with plush velvet sofas, Parisian street lamps, wrought iron arches, geisha girl chair covers and colourful mood lighting providing the backdrop for dishes that include Santorini Grilled Giant Prawn, Parisian French Onion Soup, Mama Mia Penne Duck Ragu and Roppongi Style Crispy Crab Cakes. Chompol describes the cuisine as California Fusion, but confers that his aim was to take the best parts of the best dishes from around the world to combine them into a unique dining experience . The cocktail list has also been blended in suitably similar style, with Geisha and the City leaping off the page. Moulin can be found in the quiet back streets of Thonglor, between sois five and nine. It opened in May 2013, moving from its previous home in the Siam Discovery Centre.
Words and photos by Paul Hutton.
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Top left: Caesar Salad with Moulin s unique authentic Caesar Dressing.
Above: Tagliatelle with Escargot in Aglio e Pepperoncino with Chilli
Bottom left: Grilled Tuna Steak with Avocado Salsa Sauce.
Below: Orange Dessert in Caramel Sauce.
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Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers Wins World Luxury Award Luxury Hotel and Convention Centre of the Year
Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers has added another great award to their already impressive record of honours. Nominated in three categories in the prestigious World Luxury Awards in 2013 Luxury Hotel, Luxury Business Hotel and Luxury Hotel & Conference Centre Royal Orchid Sheraton was announced winner of the Luxury Hotel & Conference Centre on November 1, 2013. Offering 28,000 square feet of conferencing facilities conveniently located on the same floor, the Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers offers a wide selection of unique and tasteful venues for a stylish and unforgettable event. Featuring 22 luxury functions rooms offering a total of 4,030 square metres of space, the hotel features among some of Thailand s most technologically advanced venues and offers breathtaking views of the Chao Phraya River. The newly renovated Royal Orchid Grand Ballroom is well suited to grand affairs and can accommodate up to 1,400 persons. With a stateoftheart lighting system that is capable of producing a broad spectrum of colours, intricate patterns and graphics, this delightful Venue can accommodate all needs and festivities such as an engagement party or a wedding reception. With graceful drapes, beautiful floral arrangements and elegant décor the scene is set for a memorable occasion. A further 13 meeting rooms are available, seven of which have views of the Chao Phraya River, ranging in size from 44 square metres to 200 square metres and offering infinite possibilities for rewarding business meetings, intimate gatherings, sparkling cocktail receptions, and stimulating conferences. Another distinctive venue is the Embassy Garden, a captivating tropical poolside location able to cater for up to 300 persons.
Above: Keith Hardie, General Manager (centre) and his dedicated team celebrate their prestigious win in the World Luxury Awards 2013. Page 23 www.bangkokscene.com
Saturday December 7th E Casanova as Michael Jackson Relive the Legend @ Centara Grand Convention Centre. American tribute artist performs all Michael s hit records. Overcoat Music Festival 2013 @ Starlight by Jolly Land, Khao Kho. House Party @ Velvet. Eddie Saka jets in from Paris. Big Mountain Music Festival 5 @ Bonanza KhaoYai. Saturday into Sunday into Monday Extravaganza featuring all of Thailand s top musical talent. Underground Circus @ Glow. This time with an end of year festive feel. Leessang 1st Asia Showcase in Bangkok @ Bangkok Convention Centre. XNight @ Axis and Spin. Saturdays with DJ 29 Feb and DJ Borja Marting. KEMF Pre Party @ Grease. This party gives you a chance to win KEMF tickets. Radiostar Saturdays @ KU D TA. Top 40s, Dance, Club Hits. Funk Motown @ Apoteka Thonglor. Every Saturday. Hip Hop, Garage, Soul. Nudism @ Oskar Bistro. Every second Saturday with Tim Coates and Mikus. Saturday Mayhem @ Tapas. Featuring: Alex Fischer, DJ Baptiste etc. So Rich, So Pretty @ Marshmallow. Every Saturday with DJ Piya. Vision @ Q Bar. Every Saturday Sunju Hargun and Kimball Collins. Model Night @ Love F Bar. Every Saturday. Groups of five get a free shisha. Workout Saturday @ The Club Khaosan.
Sunday December 8th Sunday Buffet Brunch. Brunches galore in our weekly round up: Events Weekly Kinky Sundays @ Q Bar. Ladies Get 3 Free Drinks. Kinky Girls In Latex or Leather Get 5 Free Drinks. Vivid @ Velvet. Models get five free drinks every Sunday. Hip Hop Attitude @ Velvet. Every Sunday with DJ Joe and GSpark. Purple Love @ Love F Bar. Every Sunday from 7pm to 2am. Remedy @ Apoteka Lux. Your weekly dose of Sunday bass, beats, eats and treats. Ghetto Fabulous @ Q Bar. Every Sunday, with Hydro Phonics and DJ Tech12 After Party @ Bash. Ghetto Fabulous at Q Bar continues at Bash. Soundset Sundays @ Levels. Every Sunday on the terrace. Madness Night DJ Battle Zuper L vs. Skinny Mark @ Safe House. Sundays. Dubstep Sundays @ Cafe Democ. Every Sunday an event that's played a huge part in the development of dubstep since day dot. Page 24 www.bangkokscene.com
Monday December 9th 808 Festival @ Bitec. A supercharged international beat buffet that is set to rock the ears and the dancing feet of Bangkok. A Week With Chef DJ Antoine V @ Ocean Bangkok. 9th 15th. Exciting sounds blend with haute cuisine as Antoine visits from Sydney for a week. Seth Troxler @ Glow. Plus Justin Martin from Dirtybird. Dudesweet 11th Anniversary @ Cloud47. The Dudesweet Asylum. DJ Hunt 2013 @ The Club Khaosan. Every Monday for the rest of the year to find a new resident DJ. Monday is the New Saturday @ Marshmallow. Every Monday with DJ Pepe. Walrus @ Apoteka Thonglor. Every Monday and Saturday. Daily DJ Themes @ ZUMA. Happy Hour 9 11 pm daily, plus different themed DJ nights on a daily basis. Lady Night Party @ Virgin by Wip168. Every Monday. Four ladies per table will get a bottle of Red free before 11pm. CM2 Ladies Night @ Novotel Siam Square. Now every Monday. The party that pampers ladies. Blue Monday @ Nest Rooftop. Are you feeling blue? Nest has the perfect antidote every Monday.
Tuesday December 10th Reggae Ska Concert @ Thailand Cultural Centre. Six artists will feature. Coconut Sunday Live @ Apoteka Thonglor. Every Tuesday. Invasion Tuesdays @ Bash. Every Tuesday with Bangkok Invaders. Wine on Tuesdays @ Nest Rooftop. Celebrate the grape every Tuesday. Velvet Ladies Night @ Velvet Nightclub. Every Tuesday. DJ Queen P Rules @ Axis and Spin. Every Tuesday. Burin and the Old School All Stars @ Funky Villa. Burin and friends. Explicit Tuesdays @ Levels. Chill Out, Jazz, Deep House, House, Tech House with DJ Smiley, DJ Neil Thorpe, DJ Brandon Neville. Free entry. Tha Beatlounge @ Q Bar. With DJ Jedie: 5X National DJ Champion, DJ Jedie is the real deal when it comes to Hip Hop in Thailand. Flix Bkk Models Night @ Flix. Every Tuesday Flix welcomes all Bangkok models for a night of partying. Page 25 www.bangkokscene.com
MOTOR EXPO 2013
The 30th Thailand International Motor Expo is currently being held at Impact Arena at Muang Thong Thani in Bangkok s northern suburbs. Held under the theme "Innovative Energies WorldChanging Vehicles", the show will introduce new vehicles that include hybrid and electric powered models. Among the manufacturers showing their new concept cars are MG, Nissan, Mercedes, Hyundai and Honda. In all there are 38 car makers from 12 countries, 10 motorcycle makers from five countries, and more than 300 vendors of auto accessories exhibiting in an exhibition space of roughly 85,000 square metres. The Expo will run until December 10th. Page 26 www.bangkokscene.com
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Photos by Paul Hutton
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Zoom Now it s not only Superman and his Marvel comic buddies who have the ability to zoom up into the night sky. We mere mortals living in the City of the Angels can also now transcend the heavens by taking the express lift to Zoom, the top of the town new sky bar and restaurant at the Anantara Bangkok Sathorn Hotel. Announcing its arrival with a gala bash on November 29th, Zoom promises to offer a fresh dose of sky high entertainment with nightly DJ sessions and atmospheric light shows. Photos by Paul Hutton.
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Thara Thong
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Restaurant Manager Pisit Paejul
Royal Thai Cuisine in Elegant Surroundings Diners searching for the ultimate Thai fine dining experience are almost certain to come away from Thara Thong feeling satisfied on all counts. Not only is the cuisine on a par with any of the finest Thai restaurants in the city, but the presentation and ambience is second to none. Every course is a treat for the senses, with the visual arrangement as stimulating to sight as much as taste. The relaxing atmosphere is made all the more serene with the gentle sounds of a traditional classical string instrument (a Kim) being played in the foyer. During midweek Thai traditional dancers perform three sessions per night, each with a costume change. Diners sit on the floor at low tables that are part of a magnificent teakwood pavilion, although outside regular table seating is also available. Both indoor and outdoor settings benefit from majestic views of the adjacent River of Kings, the Chao Phraya. Service is excellent, as befits the surroundings, and the total experience is designed to provide a style akin to Royal Court dining. Guests can even arrive and depart by boat, courtesy of the Royal Orchid Sheraton s complimentary ferry service, which runs every half an hour to and from the pier adjacent to the Saphan Taksin Skytrain station. Thara Thong is open daily from 6pm until 10.30pm. Words and photos by Paul Hutton.
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River Prawns in Thick Red Curry
The restaurant provides great views of the Chao Phraya River
The Resident Kim Player in the Restaurant Foyer
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Pomelo Salad With Shrimp and Coconut Flakes
Stir Fried Marinated Salmon with Lemongrass and Fresh Herbs
Mieng Kam dried shrimp, fried coconut, peanuts, chopped chillies, shallots, lime, and sweet tamarind sauce served with Cha Plu leaves
Guests arrive at Thara Thong via the majestic foyer
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Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Reopens Following Extensive Renovations
Anantara is once again welcoming story collecting travellers back to the white sands of Bophut Bay, as one of Koh Samui s favourite resorts, Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort & Spa reopens after an extensive refurbishment programme which saw the resort s arched doorway closed for the last six months. The ever popular resort is quite unlike any other, from Bill Bensley designed tropical gardens which complement the charms of Fisherman s Cove, to southern Thai architecture which reflects the local cultural heritage, and world class amenities enhanced by Anantara s unique design touches. Of the 106 guest rooms, the wide ranging overhaul has seen the previous six room and suite categories increased to eight, and most categories changed. The Deluxe Garden View and Deluxe Sea View rooms have been expanded from 32 to 36 square metres, thereby affording sufficient space for extra guest bed requests. With direct access to the beautifully landscaped indigenous gardens, the revamped 44 square metre Junior Garden View Suites are ideal for family holidays, accommodating up to three adults and a child. The suite categories are now increased to five, with two new Garden View and Royal Garden View suite types offering spacious accommodation at 70 and 75 square metres respectively. The popular 80 square metre Anantara Beachfront Pool Suites facelift iincludes a new 20 square metre private pool with superb beach and sea views and, as the name suggests, allows guests to step directly onto soft golden sands that are lapped by the warm waters of the Gulf of Siam. Guests arriving prior to checkin time or who need somewhere to relax and refresh before departing to the airport for an evening flight, are well looked after in a brand new hospitality room with shower facilities and offering complimentary beverages and light snacks. The restaurants and bars have also received a facelift, with the al fresco Full Moon restaurant switching Italian fare for contemporary Koh Samuian style char grill fusion cuisine, and Eclipse Bar taking on a more open, pub like ambience. Casual Asian fusion snacks and sushi are served poolside at a new cocktail bar, complete with bean bags, shisha pipes and sweeping views across to Phangan Island.
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Wednesday December 11th
Rock in the City @ Helipad, Bitec. Big Ass, Paradox, Ebola, Pang Nakarin, Getsunova, Klear, AB Normal, Zeal, Yes'sir Days, Kala, Nos and Rooftop.
Less is More Party @ Fallabella. Now with extra laser lights! Tonight you are encouraged to wear less and enjoy more. Featuring DJ April and POD.
So in Art So in Love @ Scenery Vintage Farm. With 20 popular artists.
Breakbot and Irfane @ Flow House. Presented by Superzaap. Dresscode: Beach Wear, Hawaiian Shirt, Floral Prints, Sunglasses & Bikini.
Guti Live @ Glow. Guti will be playing alongside superstar Panda and Arsit.
Friday December 13th Overdoser Two Year Anniver sary @ Plan B. Nightmare Party with seven DJs and more. The Rocky Horror Show @ Checkinn99. Back by popular demand after a sellout last run, CheckInn 99 is back with The Feroci Philharmonic Winds @ Rocky Horror Show for one Thai National Theatre. To night only on the very spooky celebrate the 70th anniversary December Friday the 13th! of Silpakorn University. The Album Official Launch Sunday December 15th Arty @ Levels. The Future of Party @ Cosmic Cafe. Dance Music! Warmup by Featuring The Paradise Bang Acoustic Sundays @ Apoteka. Daron Party Animalz. kok Molam International Band. Every Sunday from 3pm on. Acoustic Indy Pop Music plus Shark Now or Never: The BBQ and drink specials. First Bite @ Thunder Dome. Saturday December 14th With Kremella, Hadouken, Joey Boy, 12th Planet. Concert Six @ M Theatre. Six singers, six voices, six char Thursday December 12th acters and six music styles. Royal Celebration Concert @ Thailand Cultural Centre. Bangkok Symphony Orchestra with Peter Biloen, conductor and Weiyin Chen, piano. So Bring Me Back @ Sofitel So. It s the turn of Serge Gainsbourg to be featured this time around, in Sofitel So s regular tribute to musical stars of yesteryear. Page 43 www.bangkokscene.com
More Events: Bangkok Scene
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Photos by Paul Hutton.
A brand new fashion line was launched at Four Season Bangkok with an exclusive show on December 2nd. Suwannee by Sam is a collaboration by Sukhbir Singh Sethi and his daughter Suwannee. Sukhbir Singh Sethi, or Sam as most call him, is someone you would say has born talent. A pharmacist by education, it wasn't something that gave him much joy. His passion had always been in putting together colours, details, and creating beauty; hence the birth of Suwannee by Sam. This is a new and fresh couture line with exclusive formal, evening party and wedding attire for the very fashionable women of today. Sam Sethi, being a designer for international brands for the last 25 years, has vast experience, and his creativity sees no end. Sam, being born and brought up here in Thailand, loves and always has had a unique bond to anything and everything Thai. The couture line is a reflection of him in every sense. The use of Thai Silks, Indigo Dyed Cotton, other exotic fabrics, intricate hand embroidery, embellishments and extravagant accessories brings together tradition, fusion, and the beauty of the east. Weaving of Thai Silk is a dying art and a fabric that isn t used much in the modern day to make outfits that the new generation would wear. Creating this line has helped Sam cover various aspects, giving weaving villages constant work, highlighting the beauty of Thailand, fusing it with the magnificence of India s embroidery and embellishments, then adapting it into the Western designs of today. The name of the brand was inspired by his daughter Suwannee, who is the creative/managing director behind the brand. Being a fashion designer, stylist and makeup artist herself, this was the perfect scenario for both father and daughter to explore their creativity and love for fashion together. Page 45 www.bangkokscene.com
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The Collection Photos Courtesy of Suwannee by Sam Photographers: Manny Libres Librodo Rye De Asis Kester Rey Senson Celestino Pruektisak Bhuttranon
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Blue Elephant Offers Authentic Rattanakosin Menu to Welcome the New Year
Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe of Blue Elephant will be bringing ancient Thai recipes back to life in her New Year s Eve Rattanakosin menu on December 31, 2013. The Rattanakosin menu will feature longforgotten or difficult to find dishes such as Melon & Dried Fish, Lotus Petal Mieng, Wrapped Lobster, Coconut Soup with River Prawns, Authentic Curry with Golden Neck Chicken & Tamarind Eggs, Water Bamboo & Crab Claws accompanied by Tricoloured Herbal Rice to name some of the delectable selections available. In addition, to ensure magical memories in welcoming in the New Year, a live trio band will provide light music during the evening, and an inhouse DJ will be on hand to usher you and your loved ones into the New Year and dance the night away. Cost per person is Baht 3,850++ or Baht 4,450++ plus a glass of Champagne. All diners will have an opportunity to win a lucky draw for two return air tickets BangkokPhuket sponsored by Thai Smile with 2 nights stay at Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket, Karon Beach. Book your table early to avoid disappointment! For more information and reservations for the New Year celebration, please contact Khun Pattama at the Blue Elephant Cooking School & Restaurant Bangkok at Tel: 026739353 8 or email: cooking.school@blueelephant.com.
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Latest Offers/Happy Hours/Happenings UNICEF Check Out for Children 2013
Bingo Players
DJ Chuckie
The UNICEF Check Out for Children s charity auction and Fun for Funds Bowling Competition organized by Plaza Athénée, A Royal Méridien Hotel, in September 2013 has successfully collected a total fund of THB 1,023,700. The funds will go to support UNICEF s children s education programme. Pictured with a cheque for the proceeds are General Manager ChooLeng Goh (middle), Hotel Manager Gilles Evrard (third left) and Director of Sales and Marketing Carl Volschenk (fifth left) long with management team members.
New Chef De Cuisine at D Sens French Restaurant
D Sens at Dusit Thani Bangkok welcomes Wilfrid Hocquet as the restaurant s new Chef De Cuisine. Born, raised and educated in France, Chef Wilfrid graduated from culinary school before receiving onthejob education at The Martinez in Cannes, Le Jardin des Sens in Montpellier and then studied under the tutorage of Franck Cerutti at Le Louis XV Alain Ducasse, a 3MichelinStar restaurant in 2002 where he remained three years.
Food, Family & Friends at Elements Proves Recipe for Success
Elements restaurant at The Okura Prestige Bangkok continues its highly popular Food, Family & Friends bistrostyle dinner every Friday evening. The concept was launched by the hotel s Culinary Director Thomas Jakobi. We wanted to create the best possible start to the weekend with a relaxed, informal atmosphere where diners may select as many courses as they like from our bistrostyle blackboard menus, he explains. The set price of Baht 2,500++ includes continuousflow wines, local beers and soft drinks. The hotel s Sommelier Marc Bittner chooses classic wines each Friday from new and old world regions that complement the extensive menu choices.
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Movie of the Week
Supermodel 2013 at Aetas Lumpini in Bangkok. Movie by Paul Hutton, Bangkok Scene.
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