BK Magazine 596, July 3, 2015

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Top Non-Tables

BK MAGAZINE NO. 596 FRIDAY, JULY 3, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com

Chefs’ St reet Eats The Pros’ Favorite Sidewalk Kitchens

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BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JULY 3, 2015

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page 3 It Gets Better 6 cover story

Street-food Favorites 16 fashion

18 beauty

Mobile Menswear

Color Therapy

OK, so you all changed your Facebook profile pics to a rainbow flag. Great. You’ve had your fun. But now we need you to get real, refocus on Thainess and restore happiness. Remember that if the USA is a shirt, then Thailand is maybe the pants, and the button for the shirt is not the same as the pants. So whatever’s going on in Mark Zuckerberg’s country does not apply to here.

Yes, we are looking at you, vocal students who stormed a police station and got thrown in jail last Saturday. Here are some common misconceptions about the US model: “I was born that way.”

22 blends

24 bites

Live Bars

Onigiri Test

No you weren’t, silly. Your impulses are actually the result of evil overseas politicians controlling you. With attitude correction therapy, you too can soon become a normal person and reintegrate into society.

“There is no normal.”

26 restaurant

43 last word

Family Beef

Slum Solutions

Who's in charge?

General Manager Andrew Hiransomboon Managing Editor, Product Director Grégoire Glachant Managing Editor Oliver Irvine Deputy Editor Carl Dixon Features Associate Monruedee Jansuttipan Senior Staff Writer Vasachol Quadri Staff Writer Pinnyada Tanitnon, Lily Kittisrikangwan Junior Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Junior Writers Natcha Sanguankiattichai, Sam Nathapong Production Supervisor Komkrit Klinkaeo Art Director Dechart Sangsawang Senior Graphic Designer Panita Thiraphapong Graphic Designers Chantich Kongchanmitkul, Peeraya Sirathanisa Junior Graphic Designers Nemintorn Ketkeaw, Wariya Whangwaewklang

Advertising Director Wanida Akeapichai Sales Manager Tipkritta Chiraporncharas Senior Sales Associates Tassanee Mahamad, Orajira Sukkasem, Onwara Sittirug, Waranuch Thaneerat, Nattaya Bovornsettanon, Orakarn Laohakanjanasiri, Amarit Jinaya Regional Marketing Manager Pavida Chitprasertsuk Marketing Executive, Creative Services Puttipat Teerakawongsakul Marketing Service Associate Chochat Masrat

Administrator Yaovaluck Srisermsri Accountant Manita Bangmoung Contributors Rob Brezsny, Kathy MacLeod Interns Arisa Wiwatsomwong, Thammika Sawaengsri, Lalita Kittisrikangwan, Pimploy Phongsirivech, Jatuphorn Yamprasert, Varunthorn Uraroongroj, Pornchanit Visitchaichan, Korakodch Suratanamongkon, Pinyapat Bannarakhiran, Rattika Sudechawongsakul

IT Manager Takrit Jitjaroen Distribution Executive Suda Angsuputiphant Finance Manager Supaporn Bangmoung Assistant Finance Manager Anchalee Limkhamduang Senior Accountant Maneeya Kanthongdang

Cover by Jatuphorn Yamprasert and Varunthorn Uraroongroj

Group Directors Chief Executive Officer Gretchen Worth gworth@asia-city.co.th Group Digital Director Greg Duncan duncann@asia-city.com.sg

Where to find us!

The Asia City Publishing Group Bangkok Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd 22/F, Silom Center 2 Silom Road, Bangkok 10500 Tel: 02-624-9696 Fax: 02-237-5656 Email: bkmagazine@asia-city.co.th

Singapore Asia City Publishing Pte. Ltd. Block 211 Henderson Rd. #07-02 Henderson Industrial Park Singapore 159552 Tel: 65-6323-2512 Fax: 65-6323-2779 Email: contact@asia-city.com.sg

Kuala Lumpur Pacific Tourism Communications Sdn Bhd Lot 2.44-2.45, 2nd Floor, Wisma Cosway, Jalan Raja Chulan, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Tel: 60-3-2144-4886 Fax: 60-3-2141-1911

Yeah there is. In fact, the country is full of normal, law-abiding citizens. Don’t they look so much happier than you screaming, angry kids?

“I’m not contagious.”

Actually you are. It’s well known that healthy children can be turned into deviants through exposure to the wrong crowd. Then comes violence. Then you’ll ask for our protection. So we’re just nipping this whole thing in the bud.

“I’m not ‘just confused.’”

Now now. We were students too. It’s a heady time. And we’ve all had the odd transgressive experience. (Ah, 1973 and 1976.)

But if you don’t fight your impulses, you might become addicted to them, and will live a sad, lonely life of drug dependency and sexually transmittable diseases.

“I just want to be happy.”

You can be happy! We’re just asking you be happy in compliance with Article 116, which says you are free to do whatever you want at home, in your closet, alone.

“I feel so oppressed, I’m having suicidal ideas.”

Oh come on. Don’t be such a girl. Show some backbone. Stop moping around. Maybe you need a new hobby. Join a football team. Stop wearing such tight clothes. Cut your hair. Thought leads to behavior leads to mood (or something like that).

If you too are concerned you may have left-of-center tendencies, reach out to AttitudeCorrection_TH on your LINE app, and get a free kick in the ass sticker. You’ll thank us for it!

BK “Asia City Living” Magazine is edited by Andrew Hiransomboon and published 51 times a year, every Friday of each month by Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Copyright ©2015 Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. The titles “BK Magazine,” “BK ‘Asia City Living’ Magazine” and their associated logos or devices, and the content of BK “Asia City Living” Magazine are the property of Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited. Article reprints are available for B50 each. The magazine may not be distributed without the express written consent of Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Contact the Advertising Department for ad rates and specifications. All advertising must comply with the Publisher’s terms of business, copies of which are available upon request. Printed by Comform Co.,Ltd. 212 Moo 13 Krungthepkreetha Rd., Saphansoong, Bangkok 10250

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upfront HOT OR NOT

Hot: Pedro Pascal

Not: Owen Wilson

When the forever-blond star of 2013’s The Internship was in town, we couldn’t snap a selfie to save our life. Every time we tried, some minder would jump in the frame. But last week, when Game of Thrones character Oberyn Martell dropped

by Smalls, the only thing we saw on IG were people smiling with Oberyn, drinking with Oberyn, even kissing Oberyn on the cheek. Celebrities visiting Bangkok please take note: this is how to act.

Hot: Men’s T-shirts

Not: Men’s dresses

Sending a male model down the runway in a dress does not make your collection unisex. We really love that Thai designer brand Purinutt (see page 14) is thinking beyond jeans and T-shirts, but if that’s enough to make a line of A-line dresses work for men and women, then we’ll have to reassess the whole concept of gender-appropriate clothing. So for now, we’ll just stick to classic pocket Ts (see page 14).

Hot: Pies the shape of your face

Not: Chicken the size of your head

Finally, the lines are dying down as mall-goers realize Hot Star’s mammoth deepfried chunks of chicken are indeed mammoth deep-fried chunks of chicken too large for a single human’s consumption. Emquartier’s latest fast-food photo op comes from Down Under. Regardless of taste, Pie Face’s pies and tarts adorned with smiley faces ought to be a hit with the city’s emoji-obsessed.

STREET TALK On Jun 9, documentary-maker Waraluck Hiransrettawat, 45, presents the Bangkok debut of Y/Our Music, her co-directorial project with British director David Reeve which first screened in Austin, Texas, as part of March’s South by Southwest (SXSW) film and music festival. The film explores the diversity in Thailand’s musical landscape by visiting various locations and communities across the country, from rural labor songs to urban pop music. Here, Waraluck dicusses what it takes to kickstart an innovative film-making project in Bangkok.

How did you get funding for the film?

every kind of music. I take the viewer on a tour of our entire music culture.

I looked for organizations, governmental or not, that wanted to support the message of my documentary. I sent a letter to the Thailand Ministry of Culture because they were the most obvious candidates to finance a documentary that promotes Thai culture.

How did you react when your film was selected for SXSW?

Was it hard getting support for something so different?

It’s always difficult when you’re trying to push an idea that no one’s ever thought of and to gain followers. But if you’re determined, it’s possible. As long as what you’re doing has the potential to better society and enrich our culture, I say go for it.

What aspects of Thai music culture are represented in the film?

Hot: Thai ads

Not: Thai adaptations

The first posters and trailers for Gossip Girl Thailand confirmed what everyone knew already: this is going to suck. Big time. But at least our ad-people are giving us something to be proud of, with BBDO Bangkok’s original campaign for Throatsil Outdoor taking home this country’s first Golden Lion at the Cannes Lion 2015 advertising awards. That’s a big deal. Yay Thailand!

Every aspect. I want my audience to see that there’s a certain beauty in

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I felt overjoyed. It’s a huge film festival. We were so lucky to participate.

The registration fee for these events is prohibitively high. And that’s just to register your film for consideration. I don’t have much money but I really wanted my movie to be selected with all my heart. Things went quiet for a few months and then one day I received the news that Y/Our Music had been selected for the festival.

What inspires your work?

Everything we hear in our daily life can be inspiring, even the mumblings in different languages you hear in Siam Paragon. I want to bring something new to the cliched atmosphere of Thai cinema.

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What’s your next project?

It’s about a trip I took to Isreal. While there I visited a large rice field that at first felt foreign until something strange happened: I heard Isaan music coming from nowhere. That’s when I noticed that Thai workers were actually toiling in the field, and some of them were singing. It was a mindblowing scene; to hear songs by Tai Aoratai blasting across a field so far from Thailand. To see Thais bringing our music to a foreign land so filled with conflict was fascinating. We will begin production next month.

Interview by Sam Nathapong

Y/Our Music is screening once a day at Lido Cineplex from Jul 9-22. BTS Siam

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THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

by Kathy MacLeod kathymacleod.blogspot.com

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ADVERTORIAL

HAPPY TOAST

The alluring, chunky yellow toast comes heavily buttered and with five toppings: Thai tea custard, sweetened condensed milk, sea salt caramel, coffee caramel and marmalade. The rest is up to your artistic soul.

APPLE PIE CROISSANT TAIYAKI

Find it only at: Greyhound Cafe, 3/F, Siam Center

Stuffed fish-shape croissants are now swimming all around Bangkok—but none have Croissant Tayaki in Siam Square’s delicious apple pie filling. It works beautifully.

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AMAZING DESSERTS YOU CAN ONLY FIND

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WAFFLE COFFEE

This to-die-for vanilla waffle is topped with aromatic coffee sauce. Go all the way with mocha crunch ice cream on top.

Find it only at: Petite Audrey, 4/F, Siam Center

PRETTY IN PINK SUNDAE

Thanks to Pink Sundae, huge-scoop ice cream in a fancy cone is making a fashionable comeback.

The perfectly pink sweet treat comes in three delicious flavors—strawberry, vanilla and deep purple cow (black raspberry with white and dark chocolate chips)—topped with whipped cream, strawberry sauce and berries.

Find it only at Emack & Bolio’s, 1/F, Siam Center

MILLE-CREPE ISPAHAN

BANOFFEE SMOOTHIE

Banoffee desserts are made from the heartstopping combination of banana, caramel and chocolate. This drink blends all the flavors from banoffee ice cream with chocolate to create a banoffee experience literally all at once!

Find it only at: Petite Audrey, 4/F, Siam Center

SPARKLING SIAM

This sparkling iced tea drink is made from apricot ceylon tea and mint leaves.

The fizziness adds just the right texture to the tangy tea, while the mint leaves perfectly complement the apricot base aroma.

Find it only at: The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, 2/F, Siam Center

TRIPLE CHOCOLATE WAFFLE

This bakery has launched a new range of mille crepe this season for the Absolute Siam collection.

On top of the mille-crepe chocolate (cocoa-flavored crepes, chocolate Chantilly cream and toasted hazelnut) and the millecrepe lemon (lemon cream, Chantilly cream, raspberry sauce), the highlight is the mille crepe ispahan (rose Chantilly cream, lychee morsels, raspberry jam and sauce), which takes inspiration from Pierre Herme’s signature flavor.

Find it only at: Let Them Eat Cake, 4/F, Siam Center

Waffles are comforting. Chocolate is comforting. Triple chocolate waffle is out-of-this-world comforting. Le Waffle’s calorific beast topped with house-made double chocolate ice cream and finished with warm Belgian chocolate fudge is better than a duck down duvet on Sunday morning.

Find it only at Le Waffle by Love to Eat, 4/F, Siam Center

www.siamcenter.co.th

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cover story

Hit the Street We asked the best-ranked chefs from Top Tables 2015 for their fave sidewalk eats. By Natcha Sanguankiattichai.

Photos by Panita Thiraphapong and Peeraya Sirathanisa

Ian Kittichai of Issaya Siamese Club

#26

Pad Thai Thip Samai Also known as Pad Thai Pra Too Phee, this renowned one-dish specialist has some of the best pad Thai in town, and of course is always busy. Good news is, with plenty of hard-working staff, the wait is not crazy once you’re seated.

Hua Pochana

Thitid Tassanakajohn of Le Du Hua Pochana

Chef’s pick: Pad Thai hor khai goong sod (pad Thai with fresh shrimp wrapped in an egg crepe, B80) Hom Duan

313-315 Mahachai Rd., 02-221-6280. Open Tue-Sun 5pm-2am

#3

Nikolas Ramirez of 22 Kitchen & Bar

This braised-meat specialist is famous for its succulent beef with Chinese herbs and pork with shiitake, served either with noodles or in soup.

Chef’s pick: The tender nuea toon mor fai (braised beef in hot pot, B160/B200) with entrails and beef balls.

Tip: “You’d better go there before noon, when a huge crowd hits and the fried pork belly, which is also good, sells out. The owners easily get moody, so behave yourself and wait to be seated.”

Sabaijai Kaiyang Hua Pochana

Sabaijai Kaiyang

Boon Pochana

There’s way more to Ekkamai’s beloved Isaan place than the namesake grilled chicken—though it is something special.

Tip: “Go early. Try everything.”

65 Ekkamai Soi 1, 02-714-2622. Open daily 10am-11pm

#6

Hom Duan

This no-frills Sichuan Chinese restaurant nestled down an obscure Silom alley serves up comforting dishes.

#21

The place started up as a coffee shop that also sold Northern Thai food on its second floor. It was so popular that the owner dedicated the entire shop to food.

Tip: “Go there late at night. There are two chefs at the restaurant and the late-shift one does a better job.”

152/8-9 Silom Rd., 02-237-2764. Open daily 11:304am

Jess Barnes of Opposite Mess Hall Hom Duan

Chef’s pick: Stir-fried string beans (B120)

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#30

Chef’s pick: Grilled chicken (B90/B170)

Chan Soi 16, Narathiwas Soi 14, 096-465-6232. Open Sun-Fri 8:30am-3:30pm

Mirco Keller of Water Library Chamchuri

Tip: “I like to eat it with the freshly squeezed orange juice sold out front.”

Chef’s pick: Khao soi (B65)

Pad Thai Thip Samai

Tip: “I like to add fermented greens and chili as long as I didn’t drink too much the night before.”

Som Tam Krok Yai

70/2 Sukhumvit Soi 63 (Ekkamai), 085-037-8916.

Open daily 9am-5pm

BK Magazine Friday, July 3, 2015

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cover story Olivier Limousin of L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon

David Thompson of Nahm Nai Mong

#1

An old specialist on oyster dishes.

Som Tam Krok Yai

Chef’s pick: The dry-and-crispy-cooked oyster, aka Orlua (B70)

This is a small stall in the soi opposite Wat Kaek (Sri Maha Mariamman Temple) with no particular name sign. It specializes in Isaan food like somtam and tom saeb. Spot the grill in front of the stall to find it.

Tip: “Ask for yours to be cooked very dry and crispy. Season with pepper.”

545 Plubpla Chai Rd., 089-773-3133. Open WedMon 11am-9:30pm

Chef’s pick: Kor moo yang nam jim jaew (grilled pork neck, B60) Tip: “Go there in the evening when you don’t have to go back to work— this food paired with beer is perfection.

Chote Chitr

In front of fresh market, Silom Soi 20. Open Tue-Sun Noon-10pm

Morten Nielsen of Benjarong Nai-ngieb

Chef’s pick: Mee krob (semi-sweet, crispy fried noodles, B95) with chicken, shrimp and tofu.

Tip: “If you want quality street food, don’t go somewhere touristy like the Sukhumvit area.”

#24

146 Prang Phuton Rd., 02-221-4082. Open daily noon-9pm Nai Mong

Kao Lao Jom Yut

Tip: “It’s a busy place. You have to get there early when they still have everything in stock.”

125/21 Bhuthamontol Sai 4 Moo 6, 02-441-0655.

Open daily 6am-5:30pm

Rangsima Bunyasa ranand of Little Beast

#15

Thai Dessert Stall in front of Pad Thai Tipsamai The stall has a few options of steamed Thai desserts on offer, including banana custard, pumpkin custard and steamed coconut milk stuffed with Thai Dessert Stall in front of Pad Thai Tipsamai

#14

Guay Jub Worachak

Zra Jirarath of Aston

Tip: “Get there around 11am or you’ll have to wait for people making massive orders to finish. It has the best crispy pork belly and traditional look grok. The portion is pretty small. One bowl of guay jub and one of gao lao is enough for a meal. The spring rolls in front of the alley are also good!”

Gaggan Anand of Gaggan This reliable after-dark stall selling rice noodles with pork and entrails is a favorite of Silom clubbers. Find it on Sala Daeng Road during lunch and in front of Burger King in the evening.

Chef’s pick: Guay jub (B50) Tip: “Go there before the crowd because the nice kidney tends to sell out very fast.”

Corner of Silom Soi 2. Open Tue-Sun 6pm-late

Guay Jub Worachak

Juay Jub Je Berb Pochana

Dario Brusnelli of Attico Tee Lek Ying Charoen

#2

Chef’s pick: The velvety-textured steamed banana custard (B40/6 pieces).

In front of Pad Thai Tipsamai, Mahachai Rd. Open Tue-Sun, 5pm-1am

Chef’s pick: Guay jub (rice noodles and aromatic soup, B50).

An alley on Luang Rd., connecting to Wat Phra Piren, 02-221-7894. Open daily 11am-4pm

caramelized coconut.

Tip: “Don’t be shy and just go for it. It’s so good I always request this instead of cake on my birthday.”

You can easily walk past this gem as it’s located in a dark, narrow alley. The third-generation owners still do their cooking on a charcoal stove.

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#8

The tiny one-unit shophouse has been serving some Thai food since the Rama V era. And they still keep the price reasonable.

Chef’s pick: The fish ball soup (B60)

Guay Jub Je Berb Pochana

Paolo Vitaletti of Appia Chote Chitr

This 43-year-old fish ball specialist takes pride in its fish balls made fresh daily, by hand, with no chemicals involved.

Somkiet Pairojmahakej of Seven Spoons

#13

#27

This small stall in JJ Mall actually started in Ladprao many years ago. Now it’s run by the founder’s grandchildren.

Duangporn Songvisava and Dylan Jones of Bo.lan

Sawangarun Though it doesn’t have #20 the old-school look of most street eateries, this braised beef noodles joint has been around for decades. The specialty is its braised beef warming in a large brass wok at the cooking counter, which can be eaten with both noodles and rice.

#10

Chef’s pick: Beef soup (B100) with rice (B10) and the accompanying fresh and crispy morning glory.

Chef’s pick: Khao mun kai (B40), which is made using super-thin-skin boiled chicken

The stall specializes in braised beef using the front belly of the animal (plate cut), which results in tenderness and a satisfying amount of fat.

Tip: “Don’t waste time with anything else. Just go straight to the beef soup. Always go before 1pm because the good parts sell out quick. For people who like to spice it up, the nam prik pao and prik nam som there are good.”

Tip: “The accompanying sauce is simply perfect.

Go there on weekdays so you don’t have to wait in line.”

Chef’s pick: Braised beef clear soup (80) with rice (B10)

153-155 Chokchai 4 Soi 25, 088-357-1881. Open daily 7am-4pm

JJ Mall, 588 Kampaeng Phet 2 Rd. Open daily 10am-7pm

Kao Lao Jom Yut

Tip: Don’t go there after 12:30pm. They tend to run out of many items.

Corner of Soi Pipaksa 1, off Plaeng Nam Rd., 02221-7894. Open Mon-Sat 10am-3pm

Top Tables 2015.

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BK Magazine Friday, July 3, 2015

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ADVERTORIAL

Beyond Expectations The new LG SUPER UHD TV takes 4K TV to a whole new level You might know UHD, or Ultra HD, as 4K, the new high-resolution standard that offers four times more pixels than full HD. That’s a huge improvement right there, but LG is not resting on its laurels. SUPER UHD is taking 4K panels to the next level by expanding the range of colors, adding more smart connection technology, refining its cutting-edge design and vastly improving its surround sound. Take the tour and see for yourself.

See it to Believe It The New Color Prime and Nano Quantum Sheet are two new technologies to increase by 20 percent the range of colors reaching your eyes. Paired with 4K Ultra HD's 8.3 megapixels—that’s four times the resolution of Full HD—you can expect images whose colors and sharpness are beyond anything you’ve ever seen outside of a movie theater. Even when playing HD content, the 4K upscaler achieves surprisingly convincing resolution. But with the HEVC Decoder you can stream genuine 4K content straight from the web. And yes, it all works in 3D, too.

Your Design Centerpiece

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The Sound Reflector at the base creates a unique ULTRA Surround effect that literally wraps you into movie-theater quality audio. Without having to run cables across your living room, expect to hear the film’s hero come from behind you and swish right past your head. Can’t believe your ears? The sound system is by harman/kardon, one of the most trusted names in audiophile circles.

The new LG Super UHD TV is one smart, yet simple, piece of technology. The webOS 2.0 interface is now easier to use and turns your TV into a truly smart device that can browse the web, stream content and launch apps. Switching between different applications and broadcast channels is a breeze, too, thanks to the Launcher, and the Magic Remote, which functions like a pointer and scroll-wheel, making your TV as easy to use as a desktop.

Experience the ultimate sights and sounds today with LG SUPER UHD TV LG_596_July3_15_2.indd 7

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escapes AUSTRALIA

Bay of Plenty Four ways to get the most out of Northern New South Wales. By Ric Stockfis

Bangalow

Tallow Beach

The Roadhouse

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GETTING THERE

owntown Byron Bay may no longer be quite the laidback, hippie-dippy enclave it once was, but all the backpackers in the world can’t spoil the natural beauty of this part of the coast and its hinterland.

Unlike the neighboring Gold Coast, you’re never far from stunning ocean views, rolling countryside, sleepy townships and some ridiculously good meals. Here are the best ways to soak it all in.

Freakishly Good Food

Multiple Music Festivals

Byron is the epitome of the health-conscious, outdoors Aussie lifestyle, with even the gnarliest old surfers knocking back gluten-free pancakes and kombucha tea after their pre-dawn patrol. But the sheer enthusiasm for living well means that what could come off as preachy is in fact all rather fun.

Case in point: The Roadhouse (6/142 Bangalow Rd., +614-0335-5498, www.fb.com/TheRoadhouseByronBay), whose hipster crew of fermenters and foragers “dedicate their lives to sourcing the highest grade, naturally grown local produce” but also stock the largest whiskey collection in the country and turn the place into a serious bar after dark. We had a lot of good meals across Byron (with Harvest in Newrybar [www.harvestcafe.com.au] deserving special mention), but nothing that came close to dinner here. Marvell Street Roasters (2 Marvell St., +614-0291-2465, www.marvellstreet.com) is great for coffee, if you happen to be downtown.

Aside from the sheer frequency with which festivals take place, the setting and the acts they draw are remarkable. Highlights include Byron Bay Bluesfest in April (www.bluesfest.com.au), which this year was headlined by Lenny Kravitz and The Black Keys; the three-day Splendour in the Grass in July (www.splendourinthegrass. com), which last year hosted Outkast (AC/DC is rumored to be up this year); and the smaller, alternative Mullum Music Festival in Mullimbimby in November (www.mullummusicfestival.com).

Fantastic Farmers’ Markets You can’t bring it home with you, but there’s nothing to stop you gorging on fresh produce straight from the source. Byron hosts its own farmers’ market on Butler Street every Thursday morning, but the real action is out in the townships of Bangalow (every Saturday morning on Byron Street) and Mullimbimby (every Friday morning at the Show Grounds). Bangalow is a charming—and now rather chi chi—hamlet, so popular that you’ll have to fight for a brunch table at Utopia Cafe (13 Byron St., +612-6687-2088, www.utopiacafe.com.au). Mullimbimby, with a counter-culture reputation to rival Byron, is even more sedate. Milk and Honey (59a Station St., +612-6684-1422, milkandhoneymullumbimby.com.au) serves some of the region’s best pizzas.

From Jun 1, AirAsia offers a return ticket to Gold Coast with one stop in Kuala Lumpur at B23,797 while Qantas offers a return ticket with one stop in Sydney at B29,386. After landing, it’s an hour-and-a-half drive to Byron.

WHERE TO STAY

Marvell Street Roasters

Amazing Wildlife Byron is Australia’s easternmost point (it’s open ocean all the way from here to Chile) and the waters around here teem with marine life. Humpback whales migrate right past the Cape Byron headland, and Whale Watching Byron Bay (9 Marvell St., +61-1800-243-483, www.byronbaywhalewatching.com.au) offers guaranteed sightings on 12-person boat expeditions from June to November (AUD$89 [B2,386] per person). Even just walking around Cape Byron, we watched a pod of dolphins playing close to shore for half an hour.

To get even closer to the action, join a scuba or snorkel trip out to the nearby Julian Rocks, rated one of the top five dive spots in all of Australia and home to more than 1,000 species of fish, including leopard sharks and nurse sharks, as well as three species of turtle. Sundive (Shop 8, 9-11 Byron St., +61-1800-008-755, www.sundive. com.au) heads out there daily, with dives starting at AUD$95 (B2,547), including equipment hire.

Arcadia House

VISA

Visitors from most countries need to apply for a visa before their trip. Find out more at vfs-au.net/Thai. The visitor visa is B3,900 plus a service charge of B600.

EXCHANGE RATE

1AUD = B26.81

Gold Coast Byron Bay Sydney Byron Bay

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Book ahead, as Byron gets very full at weekends. We really liked Arcadia House (48 Cowper St., +61 2 66808699. www.arcadiahousebyron.com. au), a beautiful, whitewashed old Queenslander (the raised timber bungalows characteristic of Queensland and Northern NSW) in Old Byron, a 10-minute walk from the beach and from town. Rates start from AUD$135 (B3,600)/night. More upmarket, and only a short stroll from the stunning sunsets of Tallow Beach, is the rainforest-encircled The Byron at Byron Resort and Spa (800 321 -1098. www.smithhotels.com/luxury-hotels/ the-byron-at-byron-resort-and-spa), where rates start from AUD$318 (B8,527) excluding tax.

Melbourne

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By Pinnyada Tanitnon

PHUKET

Turtle Power The Aleenta Phuket Pang-Nga (www.aleenta.com) is collaborating with the Pure Blue Foundation to launch their “Catch and Release Adopt-a-turtle Mini Break” package.

Apart from getting to bask in the serene Natai Beach, you will be able to help with sea turtle conservation, which has been an issue for years. Prior to the trip, you will be given a specific baby sea turtle to “adopt” and updates about your specific turtle will be sent to you via email. Then, once your adopted turtle is released, the Pure Blue foundation will send you news and updates on marine conservation. Natai Beach itself is a popular place for sea turtle breeds, such as the Olive Ridley, Green Leatherback and Hawksbill, to lay their eggs. But Anchalika Kijkanakorn, director of Pure Blue, says that although numerous hatchlings have been released every year, the number of turtles that come back to nest is significantly decreasing. For a party of two, rates for this package sit at B11,755 per night while a two-night stay is B22,000. All deals are upgradable. With this package also comes a turtle hatchling, free transfers to and from the airport and a private beachside dining experience.

Two Become One Phuket’s peaceful Ao-Yon Bay has just welcomed Bandara Resort (www.bandaraphuket.com), a contemporary Asian-style hideaway. Inspired by the tales of seafaring merchants, the resort is actually divided into two separate hotels: the five-starred Bandara Villas and four-starred Bandara Beach. Bandara Villas consists of 33 contemporary villas, each equipped with a private, sea-view infinity pool, TV and DVD player.

Guests are also promised a beautiful seaside sunset through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Rates start at B5,838 per night if you book from now till Aug 3. Bandara Beach consists of 84 units decorated in vibrant blue and wooden tones. Each room includes cable TV, a DVD player and a snack bar with coffee and tea. Rates this season start at B1,095 per night.

HUA HIN

Zombie Run Hua Hin’s new shooting range, Siam Milsim (milsim is shorthand for “Military Simulation”), also offers a range of simulation games. The range is divided into two sections––one for regular shooting practice, where players are also trained about security measures, and another where shooters are tasked with beating the clock to shoot targets set up around various obstacles. The venue also specializes in simulation games, with the first in the series themed “Zombie Infection.” The story goes that a virus has started turning people into zombies and it’s up to you to stop it spreading. Heightening the excitement, the game is held in a secret location, which contains props such as boats, ATVs and real buildings.

Because the venue is still testing out this game, tickets are reduced to B3,000 instead of the usual B4,000. For more information or reservations, visit www.siammilsim.com, or watch the teaser trailer at goo.gl/IcNQnO.

PATTAYA

New Digs Don’t be fooled by Adelphi Pattaya’s (www.adelphipattaya.com) bright and playful exterior; the new hotel actually offers a quieter option to rest and recharge. With 24-hour security, a fitness center, an on-site restaurant and a rooftop pool with a bar, this boutique hotel serves all your basic lazy-day needs, but it’s also not too far from central Pattaya should a big night come calling. The hotel offers 78 contemporary-style rooms in four different room types, starting with the 80-sq-meter duplex suite down to the 40-sq-meter premier room. Currently, the hotel is rolling out an exclusive deal for BK readers, where a deluxe room with a balcony that usually costs B3,900 per night can be yours for B1,400 per night. Just book directly on 03-673-451 or by emailing reservation@adelphipattaya.com, and mention that you’re a fan of BK Magazine. The deal is only valid till the end of August, so get a move on.

Have some cool rooms? Email your news and promotions to travel@asia-city.co.th

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Official Debut After an on-and-off year for Purinutt, the fashion brand is now back with its first “official” collection. Beaux Art Debut takes inspiration from inter-war architecture, interpreted through oversized, straight-cut patterns and gimmicks such as belt-like straps for their signature white flowery Benett top (B7,990), see-through mesh turtleneck Arthur dress (B5,990) and woven Henry top (B22,990). Fashion designer Purinutt Wongsathapornsakun is not new to Bangkok’s fashion scene, having won the Ministry of Culture’s milestone Contemporary Fashion Contest in 2011, after which he launched his self-titled brand at Elle Fashion Week 2012. He says, “I want our wearers to mix-and-match our collection with other items they already own. It’s all about wearability and simplicity––there’s beauty in the ordinary which is perfect for unisex clothing.” 2/F, The Emquartier (Qurator Zone), Sukhumvit Rd., 096884-0451. BTS Phrom Phong.

FASHION

TECH

HOME

Men’s Staple

Wrist Watch

Into the Wild

The guys behind men’s fashion blog Wardrobe Ministry have just launched their own range of soft-wash pocket T-shirts. The 100-percent jersey cotton tees have a narrow fit, side-split hem, ribbed neck and half-bicep sleeve, and are available in three colors—white, gray and navy blue—at B790 each. Head to the website for an extensive guide on how to wear it complete with plenty of reassuring close-up pics of material and details.

Orders can be made at www.wardrobeministry.com.

Yes, the Fitbit Flex, one of the cheapest, most durable and simpleto-use fitness tracking devices out there, has been on sale in Thailand for a while now. But the official Thai launch of Fitbit means obsessive self-trackers can now get the brand’s latest two models: the Charge HR (B5,550) and the Surge (B8,940). What’s special about these new models is that, on top of the basic features of the Flex, they also track your heart rate for a more accurate reading of your daily acitvity. And they sync to your phone’s caller data so you’ll see a caller ID while you’re working out. The full line is now available at electronic stores including iStudio, Jay Mart and Power Buy. But before you splurge, be sure to check prices on websites like Lazada—there are better deals out there.

New York home decor brand Jonathan Adler, which opened its first Bangkok store last year, has now rolled out its latest collection, Glass Menagerie, to give your home a mid-century touch.

Various animal shapes are presented in high-fired stoneware detailed with pools of colored molten ground glass. Highlight items include the Soleil Vase (B10,700), Monsier Vase (B14,100), Bull Head (B22,500) and Lion (B7,300). As well as stoneware, there is also a ceramic collection (ranging from B4,400 for the walrus to B28,000 for the horse) and a brass collection including the Owl Dish (B5,600), Giraffe Bowl (B6,700) and Horse Ring Bowl (B5,000). 1/F, Groove at CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., BTS Siam/Chit Lom

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Three TVs going beyond Ultra High-Def

Rompboy

Some of us are still happy with our HD TVs, with a measly 1080 pixels across. Some of us are still paying off installments on our ultra high-definition panels (4K pixels across). Well, we’re all hopelessly outdated as TV makers roll out the next generation of 4K TVs, dubbed Super or Prime UHD. To be honest, Super UHD is a bit of an exaggeration—it’s still 4K after all— but picture quality has genuinely increased.

FASHION

Himstagram Bangkok’s best menswear Instagram shops.

By Vasachol Quadri

LG 65-INCH LG SUPER UHD TV, B79,990 Simplwatch

Mattersocks

Compared to UHD: LG has rolled out two new technologies meant to take UHD to a new level.

The color range is now 20-percent wider and the HEVC Decoder can stream genuine 4K content straight from the web more smoothly— good news now that we have affordable, legal 4K streaming services in Thailand.

Design: This beauty is 8.5mm thick for the 55-inch model or 9.2mm thick for the 65-inch one. It’s about as discreet as TVs get.

Another Case

She Has a Beard Shop

Wrkstuff

Style: Handpicked secondhand street-style menswear with a focus on sneakers and silver accessories.

Style: Vintage work-wear with plenty of denim jackets from the likes of Carhartt, Levi’s, Wrangler, Bronson, Polo Ralph Lauren and Hiroko Koishino.

Highlight item: Pro-Keds Royal Hi in white (B3,550).

Contact: @shehasabeard_Shop

Highlight item: Levi’s Engineered Jacket (B1,590) and Hiroko Koshino Japan workwear (B1,400)

Simplwatch

Contact: @wrkstuff

Style: Minimal watches featuring Italian leather straps (black and brown) and stainless steel cases (in silver or gold finish).

Rompboy

Highlight item: Gravity black watch (B3,490) Contact: @simpl_watch or www.simplstyle. com

The Fellas Store Style: Secondhand vintage menswear focusing on rugged American-wear like jackets, denim, sneakers and rucksacks.

Highlight item: Vintage Boy Scout Backpack Rucksack (B1,750) and sun-faded vintage ’50s French work jacket (B2,000) Contact: @thefellas_store or 088-897-8075

Prime Store Style: Vintage and second-hand menswear and accessories, especially Japanese minimal and Scandinavian street-style pieces.

Highlight item: The large selection of white Japanese linen shirts and the G.U. chambray two-tone shirt (B650) Contact: @prime_store

Prime Store

Compared to UHD: Samsung, too, has improved on the processors in its TV. Without getting into the technical jargon, the TV is now analyzing increasingly small and numerous portions of the image to continuously balance the contrast. You get darker blacks and brighter whites as a result. The color range has also been expanded.

Design: The curved screen is a beautiful statement, while the chamfered metal edges make this TV look just as premium as the Galaxy S6 Edge. Samsung’s coolest SUHD, the JS9000, even comes with a ribbed back, a must-have if you’re not going to just push it against the mall.

Style: Vintage firsthand, secondhand and deadstock menswear and sneakers. Lots of jeans, secondhand converse and worker jackets.

Highlight item: Vintage-style prisoner sets (jacket B2,750 and pants, B1,890) and Romboy 1940 ivory jacket (B2,250)

She Has a Beard Shop

Contact: @rompboy

Tathata Brand Style: Handmade bags (canvas and leather) and watches (hand-sewn leather strap) with unisex design.

Highlight item: The floral-print Bloom collection (B4,800)

Hidden Matter Style: Minimal bags in PU and canvas mixed with clear plastic as well as iPhone cases.

SONY BRAVIA 4K 65-INCH S90 SERIES BRAVIA 4K LED, B199,990

Highlight item: Geometric PU and Plastic crossbody bag/iPad case available in white, black and navy blue (B720)

Compared to UHD: Sony hasn’t followed the path of LG and Samsung by claiming it’s gone beyond UHD. That doesn’t mean they don’t have some new technology meant to make your image punchier. They call it X-tended Dynamic Range and it too promises more brightness (double actually) and a wider color range.

Contact: @tathatabrand

Contact: @hiddenmatter

Mattersocks

Another Case

Style: Colorful, graphic-print and striped socks.

Highlight item: The mustache face (B190/ pair) Contact: @mattersocks

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SAMSUNG 65-INCH SAMSUNG SUHD TV JS9000, B179,990

Style: Monochrome iPhone cases and photograph cases (taken by the owner himself) Highlight item: Black and white marble case (B360 for iPhone 4s to B440 for iPhone 6+) Contact: @another.case

Design: Sony joins Samsung with its curved screen, a trend that seems to be here to stay.

Curved screens genuinely extend the size of the image reaching your eye and the clarity of its outer edges. Also, it looks pretty darn cool.

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THE LOUNGE HAIR SALON

The Element Lifestyle Salon

Founded in 2006, this boutique salon offers cuts (from B1,700), highlights (from B3,900), mani-pedis (B1,100) and coloring (B3,900). You can also indulge in hand spa (B1,700) and paraffin spa treatments (B800-B900).

Brand-name products include L’Oreal Paris, Kerastase Paris, Moroccan Oil and more.

2/F, K Village, Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02-665-6020-1. Open daily 11am-8pm. www.theloungehairsalon.com

BEAUTY

Color Your Life Dip-dyes, granny ash and ombres are the hot hair trends from the fashion weeks of 2015. Here are five top new hair salons specializing in coloring.

By Lalita Kittisrikangwan

The Element Lifestyle Salon

MOGA at The Emquartier

This salon uses only natural and environmentally-friendly products to revive and treat your hair with the best possible care. We recommend the Aveda Invati expert coloring, starting at B4,000—a great solution for dry split-ends. Valid through August, you can grab 50 percent off on a botanical therapy hair treatment (usually priced at B3,500), which includes a free haircut.

Another to offer Aveda’s organic hair treatments, this salon opened a new branch at Emquartier this March.

The Invati color therapy starts at B3,400, but prices depend on how muach hair dye your luscious locks need. Treat yourself to five hair therapies or spend B6,000 on their organic Japanese-inspired kiku products to get a free scalp treatment worth B2,300.

G/F, Park Lane, Sukhumvit Soi 63, 02-382-0123. Open daily 10am-8pm. www.fb.com/theelementhairsalon

FaB Relation Bangkok This Japanese salon opened its first Thai branch in Sukhumvit back in 2011, but they’ve just brought their high-tech hydraulic hair-washing machines with them.

Want to look like the next J-pop idol? Hit up FaB Relation for their bold and fun highlights and lowlights (B3,000-B5,000), ombres (starting at B2,400) and coloring (B2,500).

Noble Remix , Sukhumvit Soi 36, 02-160 - 0861.

Open 10am-7pm. BTS Thong Lor. www.fab-2011.com

Mark Thawin Ultimate Hair Solution Never worry about brassy yellow bleached hair again.

Here, the ultimate hair color and technical set (starting at B5,000) delivers a rich hair color that’s not like every other girl in Siam Square. If you’re really looking for the VIP treatment, call for a reservation with Mark Thawin himself. Also, every Mon and Tue 10am-2pm you can get 20-50 percent off coloring.

330 Ladprao Soi 94, Town in Town Rd., 02-934-7776.

Open 10am-8pm. www.markthawin.com

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4/F, Central Embassy, 1031 Phloen Chit Rd. 02-000-3738.

Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Phloen Chit

MOGA at The Emquartier

TONI & GUY THAILAND

FaB Relation Bangkok

4/F, Helix Quartier, The Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-003-6190. Open daily 10am-8pm, BTS Phrom Phong. www.moga.co.th

2/F, The Esplanade, 99 Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-660-9212-3. Open daily 10am-10pm. MRT Thai Cultural Center. www.toniandguy.co.th

BOY Siam by Boy Tokyo Japanese-inspired hair salon Rikyu by Boy Tokyo has opened their second branch in Siam Square, with a slightly different name. Before you get a cut, the hairdressers here will sketch out your new look. If you’d rather keep it quick, you can select your cut from the salon’s lookbook. Cuts from Japanese stylists are priced at B1,500, with Thai stylists B700 and coloring starting from B2,500. Word is this is where famed beauty-blogger Pearypie actually gets her fab and bold colors done.

This international hairdressing mainstay has provided professional haircare around the world for over 50 years. In Thailand for 13 years now, the salon has garnered a loyal celebrity clientele for its exclusive styling products and London-trained stylists offering cuts (from B900), coloring (from B4,000) and perms (B4,000-B10,000).

HIVE HAIR & NAIL

Mark Thawin Ultimate Hair Solution

2/F, Scala Theatre, Siam Square Soi 1, 02-658-4544.

Open Sun-Tue, Thu 9am- 6pm, Fri-Sat 9am-7pm.

BTS Siam. www.boyrikyu.com

Experience the A-list celeb treatment by enlisting the services of superstar stylist Jirakiat “Gong” Wattana at Hive’s newest Central Embassy branch. Cuts start at a whopping B2,000, rainbow highlights from B1,500 and wax jobs from B250-B61,250. Splash out B550-B650 for a mani-pedi and you might find yourself sitting besides national sweethearts Chompoo Areeya or Ploy Cherman.

4/F, Portico Building, Land Suan Rd., 02-652-0956. BTS Chit Lom

BOY Siam by Boy Tokyo

1/F, Central Embassy, 1031 Phloen Chit Rd., 082-224-9491. 02-1605996/7. Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Phloen Chit. www.hive-salon.com

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Park View How would you like your Sunday brunch with 22nd-floor views of Lumphini Park?

22 Kitchen & Bar’s new “Brunch O’Clock” offers just that, along with free-flow sparkling wine, mimosa and bellini, a live band and a la carte comfort food. Dishes include Slammin’ Salmon Toast (B230), Aunt Jemima’s Pancakes (B340), Breakfast Burritos (B320), Gangster Eggs Benedict (B400), Steak Frites (B850) and Country Style Fried Chicken (B320). Cocktails are available both by the glass and the pitcher (B180/850), with drinks like Icy Green Tea Mojito and Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri. Otherwise, opt for the B950 free-flow sparkling wine option. The brunch is available every Sunday from 10am-3pm. 22/F, Dusit Thani, 946 Rama 4 Rd., 02-200-9000. MRT Silom

LUNCH

NEW BAR

NEW MENU

Street Style

White Lie

Fruit for Thought

If you’re not quite ready for the bank-breaking dinner at Osha with its B1,500 wagyu pad krapao, here’s a new chance to taste their offerings. Drop by at lunch time for the Osha Premium Thai Street Food promotion which prices single-dish Thai staples at B285. Expect dishes like khao soi wagyu (Northern-style curry noodles with wagyu), khao na ped panang (duck in curry with rice), pad Thai goong sod (pad Thai with prawns) and krapao nuea kai lava (stir-fried minced wagyu with holy basil, topped with lava egg). Starters like chicken satay and desserts such as O-liang (Thai coffee) creme brulee are priced at B100 each.

99 Wireless Rd., 02-256-6555

The renovated shop-house-to-art space trend that’s swept Charoenkrung (Speedy Grandma, Soy Sauce Factory et al.) has arrived in Silom. Oliver Wolfson, a filmmaker who landed in Bangkok eight years ago, has opened Whiteline Gallery and Bar. This six-story building comprises a first floor dedicated to a grungy art space that’s more than a little reminiscent of Soy Sauce, from the paintings on the white-washed wall to the film projections and colorful lighting. The bar has already hosted a few music nights on the sly with more promised. The drinks keep things simple with beers: Leo starts from B80/can, Beerlao B150, Deschutes IPA at B250, with homebrew soon to come on tap. In the future, the whole building will be turned into an entertainment hub, combining bar, restaurant, club and gallery. Silom Soi 8, 087-061-1117. BTS Sala Daeng

The Peninsula’s executive chef Jackie Ho has released a new Chinese menu at Mei Jiang focusing on fruit. The menu comprises dishes like spicy marinated abalone with green mango, red chili and lime sauce (B2,000), double-boiled capon chicken soup with birch seeds, apple and brown fungus (B480), stir-fried Angus beef tenderloin with jackfruit, honey bean and beef gravy sauce (B850) and sauteed scallop with Chinese pear and bell peppers in mild chili sauce (B1,100). The promotion is available for lunch and dinner till Jul 31. G/F, The Peninsula Bangkok, 333 Charoen Nakhon Rd., 02-861-2888

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blends

Tep Bar

Tep Bar

Parking Toys’ Watt

BARS

On Repeat Four new bars with daily live music. By Vasachol Quadri

Tep Bar This is one of the most professional-looking spots among Chinatown’s new-wave of shop-house bars-slash-art spaces. It even has air-con (rare in these parts). The soundtrack is classic Central luk krung. Unlike, say, Studio Lam, whose traditional molam music centers on instruments such as kaen and pin, the band here highlights ra nad (wooden xylophone), sor au (alto fiddle) and ja kae (similar to a lap guitar)—the kind of sounds you hear in traditional khon plays, only performed in a more casual manner. Thursday nights are reserved for classical guitar, while the house band, Samneang Tep, performs every Fri-Sun from 8:30pm onwards. Outside band hours, the owner throws on a good mix of instrumental luk krung music that dates back to the 1940s. Also, they do a good line of home-infused ya-dong (traditional herbal Thai white spirit), either as shots (B200) or mixed with cocktails (B280).

69-71 Soi Nana, Charoenkrung Rd., 098-467-2944. Open TueSun 5pm-midnight. MRT Hua Lamphong. www.fb.com/ TEPBAR

Moire Opened in April, this Ari bar goes back to basics with standard booze, a focus on live music and good ol’ Thai drinking food. On the daily lineup you’ll spot familiar faces from the Stu-Fe family like The Bucket and Kingkhong & The Chum, so you can expect lots of Thai ‘90s tunes mixed with some Thai and international pop hits on Fri-Sat. During regular hours, the owner gets all nostalgic and plays his collection of ‘80s-’90s alternative music. The decor is industrial—bare red bricks, exposed ceilings, vintage bulbs—while the short food menu turns out beer-friendly, tasty dishes like the deep-fried king mackerel with spicy mango salad (B170), fresh prawn in spicy dressing (B160) and yum sam krob (crispy fish salad, B140).

Phahon Yothin Soi 5, 081-646-0537. Open Mon-Sat 5pm-1am. www.fb.com/moirebar

Baan Puen

Located on the rooftop of Ekamai Shopping Mall, above the late-night party institution Dark Bar, Baan Puen lives up to its name, which literally translates to “a friend’s house.” Here, the low-key decor is matched by wallet-friendly price tags. The owners look to offer a folksy, toned-down alternative to Ekkamai’s hi-so clubs with a focus on live indie music that reminds us of the dearly-departed Stu-Fe. One of the partners is the guitarist in the pop band August, and you can expect to see him pop up to the stage and jam with his musician friends on occasion. Two bands from the Tigger Twins’ stable, Blue Shades (blues) and Young Man and The Sea (folk rock), perform here every Wednesday and Thursday, respectively. Friday is typically reserved for Thai-international pop covers, while Saturday and Sunday are all about reggae/ska, funk and disco music.

3/F, Ekamai Mall, Ekkamai Soi 10. 061-824-1774. Open daily 6pm-2am. www.fb.com/baanpuenekamai

Parking Toys’ Watt

Run by the guy behind the live music institution Parking Toys, this spacious venue gets top marks for its open-air, Marrakesh-inspired bar, retro furnishings and music. The place opened with the Paradise Bangkok Molam International Band’s album launch last November, and regularly plays host to the molam, luk thung and Thai roots music of the Hifi Thai Country Band. But just like the original Parking Toys, rock runs in the blood here.

Monday nights serve up the guitar and synth sounds of The Jackle; Tuesday it’s the folk rock of Sweety P; Wednesday is guitar and cello from Pack Man and garage rock from Run Ran Run; Thursday is reserved for Mrs. Slave’s acoustic jams and Mommy Daddy’s Irish rock; Friday starts with soul music from The Grass Roots and Run Ran Run; Saturdays welcome new house band Young Man and The Sea, Mommy Daddy and the hardcore rock of Founder and CEO; and, finally, Sunday gets all experimental with 3 Doors and the Sunday Drown.

164 Soonvijai Soi 14, 02-318-1415. Open daily 4pm-2am. www.fb.com/wattparkingtoys

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Moire

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ADVERTORIAL

Sustainable Meeting Showcases The Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) is not only a strong advocate for sustainability; it practices what it preaches, hosting sustainable meetings with low-carbon footprints that set the standard for Thailand’s MICE industry

The MICE Capabilities Department of TCEB has successfully implemented sustainable meeting practices since 2008. In recognition of it achievements, it recently hosted a four-day international meeting that showcased its Sustainable Meeting Guidelines to the world. Here, we talk to Nichapa Yoswee, MICE

What kinds of practices make up a sustainable meeting?

Capabilities Director of TCEB on why hosting a major event does

There are lots. For example, we gave away BTS cards to

not need to harm the environment.

encourage participants to leave their cars behind because the venue was easily reached by train. For decoration of the food

Why are sustainable meetings important for the MICE industry? has the potential to be a real trendsetter in the sustainability movement. Sustainable business is all about the three Ps: people, profits and the planet. It’s important for everyone—businessmen, hotels, convention centers--to run their businesses responsibly and think ahead for the benefit of future generations.

How do you promote sustainable meeting?

We want people to understand that hosting a sustainable meeting isn’t just about splashing the color green around the place; it’s about implementing real sustainable practices that result in the least possible harm to the environment. We recently hosted a big four-day event, MPI’s (Meeting Professionals International) esteemed Meeting Essentials-International Certificate program, at Eastin Grand Hotel, under our set of Sustainable Meeting Guidelines to show how easily it can be done.

To get more information, please visit www.micecapabilities.com

TCEB#3_2.indd 7

and beverage station, we use vegetables, fruits and small trees

“

instead of flowers. We served only Thai desserts and local fruits to help out the local farmers and cut the carbon footprint from

Nichapa Yoswee MICE Capabilties Director at TCEB

imported fruits. We also packed the leftover desserts into small

“

Remember that the MICE industry is a large service sector; it

given to participants to grow at home, too. We also used local

Sustainable meeting isn’t just about splashing the color green around the place; it’s about implementing real sustainable practices.

paper bags and handed them to attendees when the meeting was over. Afterwards, the small trees used as decorations were recycled products as souvenirs.

What was the feedback?

The participants loved it. Some were really excited to see which desserts and plants they would be able to take back home. These sorts of practices make our MICE events unique compred to those in other countries, too. We want to emphasize that Thailand’s MICE industry is serious about sustainability.

By

6/29/2558 BE 5:13 PM

bites TASTE TEST

Ball Call When it comes to packaged onigiri (Japanese rice balls), Bangkok’s spoilt for choice. But are they actually any good? We put 10 brands’ salmon selections to a blind taste test. By BK Staff

Lawson 108’s grilled salmon with salt (B30) A

RUNNERUP !

The taste is mild and satisfying overall. The rice is a bit dry and there’s very little filling compared to the amount of rice. The salmon’s a bit salty, though.

Verdict: The Japanese mega-chain just about gets the job done.

Nippon Kai’s salmon mayonnaise (B50) D

Family Mart’s salmon teriyaki (B25) The thinnest of the batch. It tastes like there’s some vinegar seasoning to the rice, which would also explain why it’s a bit soggy. The filling doesn’t look or taste like salmon, and is overwhelmed by sweet soy sauce.

Verdict: Sad stuff.

7-Eleven’s salmon teriyaki (B27)

The seaweed is plastic-y. The whole thing is overwhelmed by overly sweet, salad cream-like (if not fake) mayo. Plus, the price is far higher than the size warrants.

This piece has the mushiest rice with a rather sweet flavor.

There’s a shoyu smell which matches the dark brown look of the filling, but the taste is bland with only a short, sharp sweet note.

Verdict: Gimme real mayo

Verdict: Only for desperate 7-Eleven near you

Gourmet Market, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd. BTS Siam

Lawson 108 near you

B

G

E

Sake’s grilled salmon (B35)

H

Peco Peco’s salmon (B40)

The seaweed has the worst taste of all—artificially chewy.

When combined with the mushy rice, this is one unsatisfying ball.

This rice ball is dense, while the fish inside is super flaky and pale. Despite the looks, we do detect a subtle salmon aroma.

Verdict: Is this even onigiri?

Several branches in Bangkok. Try Mega Bangna, Bangna Trat Rd. www.fb.com/pecopeco.onigirideli

Some Max Value branches. Try B1/F Erawan Bangkok, 494 Ploenchit Rd. BTS Chit Lom

Verdict: Don’t judge it by its looks

Nagomi’s salmon mayonnaise Pran Talay’s salmon mayonnaise (B35) The rice is loosely balled with just the tiniest hint of salmon (B35) inside. The only saving grace is the seaweed, which holds it I

F

Find it at Family Mart near you

MaxValu’s grilled salmon (B25) C

YUCK!

This is the only rice ball with seaweed already attached to the rice, and that’s actually the problem. The little piece of seaweed is barely enough to encase the rice, and the taste is as bad as it looks. There’s a slightly industrial taste to the petite salmon flakes—or should we say salmon powder.

Verdict: No words

Though this is the thickest and densest onigiri here, it doesn’t really seem to justify the price. The rice is hard and dry, as if uncooked, while the filling is a whole lot of nothing.

in shape and adds a satisfyingly natural aroma.

Verdict: Big and bland

Central Food Hall, Central Chidlom. www.fb.com/Nagomi.Sushi.2002

Tops Supermarkets near you

Onigiri’s grilled salmon (B60)

Verdict: Seaweed surprise

J

BK PICK!

The only one that has some chunky bits of salmon and the rice is well-cooked. However, the taste is still bland. There’s pretty much no seasoning at all.

Max Valu near you

Verdict: Best of a questionable lot Find it at the Oigiri stall, in front of Thaniya, Silom Rd.

C

J

B F

A

H D

I G

E

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bites

OPEN DOOR

Mikaku The latest Kobe beef specialist comes with three generations of Japanese pedigree.

The buzz: Operated by the same family for more than 80 years, this Japanese restaurant from Gion district in Kyoto is known for its expert selection and preparation of premium beef teppanyaki. Now, third-generation owner Kenji Mita has opened the first branch of Mikaku outside the motherland.

The decor: Being a teppanyaki restaurant, it’s set up so that diners can sit at the counter and watch the chef cook their meat right in front of them. There are only three rooms in this minimal, wood-dominated space. The main, and biggest, room seats 12, while the other two private rooms, which can be combined, seat four and six people at a time. The decor is clean and calming, while the low ceiling enhances intimacy levels and the leather-upholstered chairs add a touch of elegance.

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The food and drinks: At this branch, owner Kenji also mans the grill himself. Selecting only A4-5 graded wagyu from Kobe, he hand-slices the tenderloin and sirloin to what he describes as the perfect thickness and cooks them using his family's signature techniques. There are four set menus on offer, each differing in how the beef is cooked: steak (tenderloin or sirloin) at your preferred level of doneness, melt-in-your-mouth oilyaki (3-5mm thinly sliced tenderloin, served piece by piece), shabu-yaki (grilled super-thin sirloin) and sukiyaki (soft-boiled super-thin sirloin). The sets are served along with an appetizer, soup of the day, green salad, garlic fried rice, Japanese pickles, clear soup and dessert. Prices start at B3,500/100g. There are also a couple of seafood options, including king crab (B3,000)

and maguro steak (B2,500). The drink list covers Japanese beer (from B120), sake (from B800), sweet plum wine (B320/glass, B2,300/bottle) and wine starting at B330 by the glass.

Why you should care: If you’re serious about the origins and preparation of your red meat, you can rest assured Mikaku serves up certified Japanese beef prepared according to generations-old recipes. Natcha Sanguankiattichai 2/F, Above Maison Eric Kayser, 103/1 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), between soi 3-5, 02-712-9080. Open daily 5-11pm; Sat-Sun noon2pm

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Jirafu

TABLE TALK Pain Perdu

Greenmade Cafe

Maguro Chic Republic, Bangna-Trad Rd., Km.4, 081-002-4400.

NEW AND NOTED

Toast to Remember

Run by rising cooking host Nattapong Nawchoowate, aka Chef Fang from Krua Indy TV program, Pain Perdu (7/F, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 081-817-7791, www.fb.com/painperdu.th) serves a toast-focused list of desserts amid a minimalist setting. Recommendations include the eponymous Pain Perdu (two slices of brioche toast with maple syrup, B90) and the s’more with almond, marshmallow and chocolate soft cream (B150). If you like your toast savory, try the grilled cheese with tomato soup (B240). Drinks span coffees like iced espresso (B90) and iced latte (B105) to a full range of Italian fruit sodas (from B95-B105).

Neck It

Ladprao is the latest ‘hood to welcome a new after-work izakaya. Jirafu (655 Ladprao Rd., next to Ladprao Soi 5, 02-0029989, www.fb.com/jirafusushibar), which refers to giraffe in Japanese pronounication, is set in a two-story warehouse decked

out with lots of raw concrete. Boasting more than 30 Japanese beers (priced from B120-B600), the restaurant’s food menu is made for drinking; try the Jirafu Yaki Mori (B450), which comprises grilled chicken, shiitake mushroom and cherry tomatoes.

There’s also plenty of sashimi, sushi rolls and donburi with highlights like the wagyu hotate roll with stuffed Hokkaido scallop and miso saikyo spicy sauce (B560) and the spider crab salad (B260), deep-fried softshell crab and ebiko.

Green Thumb

This new Japanese place at Chic Republic goes against the grain of sushi restaurants offering endless discounts, by simply pricing its dishes more affordably to start with. The highlights of its produce, which is imported from Japan, include the large uni (sea urchin), hotate (scallop) and taraba crab. The restaurant also appeals to non-raw-fish eaters by offering the Maguro on Fire set (B580), which comprises torched hotate mentai, salmon mayo, engawa, foie gras sushi, grilled saba and shrimp tempura.

Exclusive privileges for Citibank credit cardmembers.

With its farmers’ market-evoking decor (wooden boxes, splashes of green), Greenmade Cafe (2/F, Plaza Zone, AIA Capital Center, Ratchadapisek Rd., 098-832-4590, www.fb.com/greenmade. cafe) does a veggie-friendly menu of fusion-style salads, soups and pastas like Miang Khum salad (savory leaf wraps, B170), pomelo shrimp salad with tamarind sauce (B250), Pumpkin Holy Basil Soup with bread (B75) and spicy Thai Mackerel black spaghetti (B185). Healthy drinks include a list of cold-pressed juices (B85) and smoothies (B75). Arisa Wiwatsomwong

Get 15% discount on Taraba menu (Size 5L) (Limit 1 dish / card /table /sales slip and get 10% discount on food only when spend 1,000 Baht or more /sales slip.

Today - 31 Dec 15

To redeem your favorite dining vouchers, please visit www.citirewards.com.

Simply click “Thailand” and then “Gift voucher”

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bites & blends market + Events

Female Friday Every Fri from 7-8pm, ladies get free sparkling, vodka and gin at Party House One. From 8pm, cocktails are B150 net.

Siam @ Siam 865 Rama 1 Rd., 02-217-300

Mikkeller

Hi-So Gentlemen’s Night Every Thu from 7-9pm, gents can enjoy free-flow Carlsberg at B450/ person at Hi-So. Sofitel So, 2 Sathorn Rd., MRT Lumphini

4th of July Mikkeller throws a garden party on Jul 4 with a barbecue by chef Dan Bark, four special beer taps and two draught cocktails from Mikropolis.

Advertise your business with us ­

26 Ekkamai Soi 10 Yaek 2, 02-381-9891

Creative Collaborations On Jul 11, the first Kinfolk Gathering dinner in Bangkok is held as part of this food and art event. B5,000/ person includes five-course dinner

by Lai “Gai” Mitwichan, activities and drinks. Tickets: www.kinfolk. com/gathering/creative-collaborations-bangkok

1+1=3 Every day from 8pm-1am, get one free martini or mojito with every two glasses purchased at Mode Sathorn ‘s The Roof @ 38.

Old Rose Storey, Sukhumvit Soi 39

144 Sathorn Rd., 02-623-4555

Mode Sathorn

starting from B6,000

Email sales@asia-city.co.th or call 026249601

Saturday Dinner Roast Every Sat from 3-9pm, come-fourpay-two on the dinner buffet priced at B790 at The Huntsman Pub. B/F, Landmark, 138 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-2540404. BTS Nana

Dusit Thani

Bangkok Wine Expo 2015 On Jul 10 from 6pm, Dusit Thani hosts the annual wine expo with more than 15 wineries presenting their bottles. Tickets are priced at B1,400 which includes food and wine tasting. Advanced booking is required v i a 0 8 1- 5 8 4 - 5 9 9 5 ( O p a l ) o r napaphanwinecellar@gmail.com.

946 Rama 4 Rd., 02-200-9000. MRT Silom

Kyushu Food Fair Shop for food and produce from Japan’s Kyushu region this Jun 25-Jul 5 at Isetan.

Charcoal

Cocktails & Kebabs Charcoal offers an all-you-can-eat brunch at B625 with a welcome glass of Martini Prosecco. Kids get 50-percent discount with pool access and towel. Seafood and free-flow bubbles option is priced at B999.

5/F, Fraser Suites, Sukhumvit Soi 11, 089307-1111. BTS Nana

5/F, CentralWorld, 999/99 Rama 1 Rd., 02-255-9898. BTS Chit Lom

New Venues

Deals

The Ocean Brew A cafe expansion of a family-run diving business specializing in inventive desserts.

Missed the guide?

Visit BKmagazine.com/TopTables2015

7/1, Sukhumvit Soi 39, 085-665-5069

Ku De Ta

Soul Kitchen Buy-one-get-one-free on standard drinks from 9-11pm every Tue at Ku De Ta. 39/F, Sathorn Square Complex, 98 Sathorn Rd.,02-108-2000

Fatboy Sushi

Fatboy Sushii Sala Daeng’s new sushi bar keeps things intimate.

Soi Yommarat, Sala Daeng Rd., 090-4199969. BTS Sala Daeng

THE EASIEST WAY TO BOOK YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS 28

Find out more at www.chope.co/toptables

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ADVERTORIAL

5 REASONS

TO VISIT O.P. PLACE The heritage shopping mall on Charoenkrung Road is a hub for Thai craftsmanship and the arts.

YOU’RE WALKING INTO AN IMPORTANT HISTORICAL PIECE LANDMARK The award-winning building was home to the original Bangkok shopping mall, the Falk and Beideck store, built during the era of Rama V. Today, the well-kept neo-classical style exterior leads to a beautiful interior lit by two of the grandest giant crystal chandeliers in Thailand. Impeccably crafted Italian-style elevators offer new technology while retaining the old-world charm.

YOU’LL SCORE SOME OF THAILAND’S BEST HAND-CRAFTED OBJET D’ART O.P. Place ensures that each of its 57 stores go only to passionate craftmasters and artists, so you’ll find the most exquisite handicrafts, such as jewelry, antiques from all over Asia, hard-to-find furniture and home décor items of exquisite quality.

IT’S HOME TO AMAZING TAILORS Within the beautiful old-school mall reside many skillful tailors who will be more than happy to make you a custom suit that perfectly fits your body. Stores such as Maxcoco Custom Tailor are known for their carefully crafted garments, while Grand Products specializes in clothing made from pure Thai silk.

O.P. PLACE IS AN ART GALLERY IN ITSELF Adorned with old photographs and works of art, just strolling between the stores of O.P. Place is like being in a heritage gallery. Keep your eyes peeled for scenes of Old Charoenkrung and traditional Bangkok life.

IT IS LEADING THE WAY FOR CONTEMPORARY THAI CRAFT, TOO Tucked inside O.P. Place is the first branch of the Chitralada Foundation store, which is currently undergoing the process of unveiling The Asian Shop (opening in August), a venue showcasing handicrafts from all of Thailand’s regions, chosen annually by The Support Arts and Crafts International Center of Thailand (SACICT), with the goal of preserving the country’s sacred and valuable art pieces, as well as disseminating artistic knowledge for those who are keen to learn about Thai art.

O.P. PLACE SOI CHAROEN KRUNG 38 Tel. 0 2266 0186 up to 95 www.opthai.com

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bites FOOD REVIEWS

Fatty’s Bar & Diner HHHH American. 598/66 Asoke Din Daeng Rd., 081-438 7221. Open Tue-Sun 4pm-midnight. MRT Rama 9.

B. G

Situated in a grungy shop-house out in the Rama 9 badlands, Fatty’s Bar & Diner is the kind of place that pulls a steady and devoted following (mostly expats) while flying completely under the radar for most.

That hasn’t stopped word seeping out about the quality of its hotdogs, burgers and various other hot sandwiches, though.

It’s certainly not a place for the fainthearted; the jocular bro talk at the bar can severely slow service while the PA blasts squalling classic and college rock (The Kinks to the Violent Femmes) at near-obscene levels. There’s a real sense of community that’s refreshing, though, and Fatty’s is also one of Bangkok’s few genuinely interesting live music venues. The kitchen has a real way with all-American junk food, too. The burgers are some of the most underrated around, particularly when they stick to basics. Put it down to personal taste, or a

Osha HHHH Thai. 99 Wireless Rd., 02-256-6555. BTS Ratchadamri.

Open daily 11am-2:30pm, 6pm-midnight. BB-BBBB.

FE

Osha is a famous chain of five Thai restaurants in San Francisco that’s been around for 17 years. Late last year, its owners, who are Thai, decided it was time to open a venue in Bangkok, causing quite a buzz with their B1,500 version of the humble pad krapao (more on that later). The kitchen used to be helmed by Thaninthorn Chantrawan, aka Chef Noom of the TV show Iron Chef, but while he’s no longer in Osha’s kitchen, his menu of modern Thai cuisine remains the same. At times the food is brilliant, with modern touches that are equal parts theater and lab experiment: glass dome lids filled with scented smoke, savory sauces turned into ice cream and steampunk contraptions at your table. The setting is equally luxurious and worthy of special occasions: stellar service, lavish banquets, a plethora of gold-accented materials and a superlative wine list. We’re all for experimentation, but it can be difficult to

family history of heart disease, but we’re not entirely down with some of the more outrageous offerings that grace the diner’s specials board, like poutine (B200). Another special, the Curdburglar (B250) burger—a mess of fried cheese curd and sauteed peppers—doesn’t really live up to its amazing name and is surprisingly lacking in flavor despite a slathering of Sriracha sauce. We’d rather the relatively tame, though no less artery-clogging, BBQ Burger (B195) with its throat-searing sauce, crisp bacon and a well-done Thai-French beef patty. Our only gripe (other than a touch of heartburn) is the sesame seed bun, which is serviceable but tends to be a little overtoasted and crumbly for our taste. For the wiener-inclined, the Brat Dawg (B160) is superb. Though little more than a bratwurst and sauerkraut on a super-soft bun, with a pickle spear on the side, it’s about as rewarding as a hotdog gets. The beerbattered shrimp and onion rings (both B120) are also no-frills success stories: crunchy and not particularly greasy. The former comes with nice, plump shrimp, too.

Perhaps more surprisingly, the salads aren’t a complete after-thought, particularly the Uper Salad (B160), which is a nicely balanced mix of greens, dried cherries, walnuts and thick, flavorful blue cheese—it doesn’t need the overdone grilled chicken which we chose to add for an extra B50.

Thanks to reasonable prices, a rocking playlist and a great selection of imported beers, we’re fine with Fatty’s eccentricities.

forgive some of the restaurant’s treatment of Thai staples. The aforementioned krapao, dubbed the Volcanic Beef (B1,500), comes with Kagoshima wagyu beef that could be more tender and a jam that tastes like a non-descript sweet chili sauce. We’re also unimpressed by the king basil leaves smothered in a thick layer of batter. The tom yam goong (Thai spicy soup with prawns, B400) sees liquid infusions of galangal, lemongrass and kaffir lime poured through a coffee syphon into a tiny bowl at your table. It’s quite the performance but the results are nothing short of bland. Instead, we’d recommend you embrace less attention-seeking dishes. The pad Thai chai ya (stir-fried noodles with salted egg and king prawns, B450) bursts with sweet and sour flavors. The salted egg yolk is perfection, too. The spicy ice-cream sauce that comes with the Dancing King Prawn (prawn ceviche with chili-cilantro granite, B380) is also a tangy hit, while the aromatic duck spring rolls (spiced duck confit in rice paper smoked with roasted coconut shell along with ginger and plum dipping sauce, B450) are a fun take on Peking duck. The spicy beef salad (B850), gets it just right, too: nicely seared with the juiciness of wellmarbled beef. It’s hard to find this much style and comfort outside of a luxe hotel although we do wish the menu, which has its ups and downs, were more predictable.

But for those wanting a stimulating and grown-up dining experience, Osha is a unique presence on Bangkok’s Thai finedining scene.

Correction In last week’s issue of BK we ran a two-star review of Osha. That was a mistake. The critic intended it to be a three-star review. We also said the head chef was Thaninthorn Chantrawan of Iron Chef, who left the restaurant at the beginning of June.

For information on our star rating, pricing and reviewing policy, visit ow.ly/OPJYQ.

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now SAT Sound Of The Indies Parinam Music's first official mini-music festival Pow! Fest takes over Live House BKK (JJ Green, Chatuchak Rd.) this Jul 4, kicking off at 3:30pm. Organized by live music organizer Seen Scene Space, the stage will be packed with local indie acts to watch like Gym & Swim, Slur, Summer Dress, Seal Pillow, Aire, Hariguem Zaboy, Wave and So, Fwends and Safe Planet, plus a set by Japanese act The Fin. B700 tickets are still available at the door.

SAT Disc Masters After a long search for the best DJ talents in town, the final round of Thailand’s Red Bull Thre3Style 2015 will take place this Saturday, Jul 4. Route 66 (RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 02-203-0936) will be the stage as selected DJs Spydamonkee, Dragon, Maiam, Nutty, Tnt, Bomber Selecta, Zlexii and Jedie battle it out for the title of champion over 15-minute sets that must incorporate at least three musical genres.

The national champions will compete at the world finals later this year. Entry is B300, and doors open at 8:30pm.

FRI Anniversary Time This week sees more than one nightlife party anniversary.

Glow Nightclub (Sukhumvit Soi 23) plays host to drum n’ bass specialists Phatfunk this Jul 3 who will celebrate their 5th Anniversary Party (B450, one free drink), with headlining Austrian DJ RoyGreen, supported by resident DJs (see BK Asks, page 34). If you’re more of a Suk 11 trawler, the Levels 3rd Year Anniversary will take place this Jul 8 under the theme “Mystery.” Entry is free, and open to the general public from 11pm onwards.

TUE Monsoon Season The Bangkok performing arts community is busy this rainy season (See page 36), with two shows launching this week. The first is an experimental performance of “An Epilogue to the Malady of Death,” along with a series of film screenings dedicated to the French playwright of the ‘60s-’90s, According to Marguerite Duras, at Thonglor Art Space (58/14-15 Sukhumvit Soi 55 [Thonglor]. B500) from Jul 9-Aug 1. The second is a restaging of veteran B-Floor director Ka-ge Teerawat Mulvilai’s controversial production Iceberg from Jul 7-18 as part of the Monsoon Theater Program at B-Floor Room (65/1 Pridi Banomyong Institute, Sukhumvit Soi 55 [Thonglor]. B490).

FRI Just For Laughs

SAT July Spree Despite the rain, July promises to be another big month for Bangkok fashionistas (see page 38).

For starters, TGIF Market will return at one of the newest popup venues, Quartier Hall (4/F, The EmQuartier, BTS Phrom Phong) this Jul 4-5 under the theme Checkmate. Expect over 200 stalls of leading fashion brands like Isawan, Something Boudoir, Mimi by Milin (pictured), Mywishlist and multi-brand pop-ups like Fablab and SOS. You’ve also got plenty of trendy food options close by at Helix Quartier.

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FRI High Voltage For a taste of the Thonglor nightlife scene, head over to Badmotel (Sukhumvit Soi 55) on Jul 3 for the SuperrZaaap! 7th Year Anniversary Mega Hits! Party.

The first floor will turn into a Thai ‘90s waikanong nightclub featuring DJs Scoobydoo and YP, while the music up on the second-floor High Voltage Pop-Up Club will be provided by Japanese guest DJ Monkey Timers and the crew’s resident DJs.

Not a party animal? You've got three casual comedy gigs this weekend. The Comedy Club Bangkok (The Royal Oak Pub, 595/10 Sukhumvit Soi 33/1. B350) hosts its improv comedy show using audience suggestions at Whose Line is it Anyway? on Jul 3 at 8pm. Bangkok Hilarious then celebrates American Independence Day at The Overground Bar & Cafe (6/1 Sukhumvit Soi 22. B200, one free drink) at its 4th of July Comedy Showcase featuring three comedians, with Graham Wooding as host on Saturday. While Sunday, Jul 5, sees the Bangkok Lyrical Lunacy Spoken Word Poetry event taking place under the theme "Jungle," featuring 2012-13 Austin Poetry Slam Champion Bill Moran, also at The Overground at 8pm.

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now BK ASKS

DJ DeLorean

GIGS & CONCERTS Centerpoint Studio Thailand, 9, 11 Sukhumvit Soi 105, 02-361-9229.

B1,500 from Thaiticketmajor.

One of the busiest DJs in town, James Gilbody, aka DJ DeLorean, was recently appointed W Bangkok’s Music Curator. As the hotel finally readies itself for the opening of the Old Russian Embassy (between W and Sathorn Square) as a new dining and drinking venue, he explains what he has in store.

“It will be called The House on Sathorn. We’re expecting it to open around Q3 [Jul-Sep], boasting a 40-seat dining room, a bar and lounge dripping with that ‘50s Madmen, smoky-bar atmosphere, with live bands in the green courtyard playing jazz, funk, soul and Mo-town, along with some of Bangkok’s best talents on the decks easing you into the night. The aim isn’t to turn this into just another party venue—the focus will be on pushing unique and interesting events, from art and photography exhibitions, to collaborations with local talents. I want to create a real hub for something different, a venue with as much appeal on a lazy Sunday afternoon as it has on a Friday night for drinks or Wednesday evening DJ DeLorean will also be joining the rest of the Phatfunk crew and special guest DJ Roy Green at Phatfunk 5th Anniversary Party this Jul 3 at Glow (96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23. MRT Sukhumvit).

B450 with one free drink.

NIGHTLIFE

BIG BANG 2015 WORLD TOUR [MADE] IN BANGKOK

Braids

#BEERBODS SPACE: COLLECTIVE GIGS AND GIGGLES

Live performances by local bands Follows, Hariguem Zaboy, New Mandarin and DJ Sokoke at I'm Park Chula's niche cafe. First 50 guests get a complimentary shot. Jul 4, 7:30pm.

High Thyme Cafe, 3/F, I'm Park Samyan, Chulalongkorn Soi 22, 02214-4221. B350 one free draft beer.

LEK HUGO LIVE

The hip singer-songwriter returns to the live music venue with special guest guitarist Jay Montonn Jira, promising music from his early days as lead singer of Sip-Lor band. Presale tickets at on.fb.me/1GzIGUf. More information at 093-124-0434.

Jul 8, 11pm. Parking Toys, 17/22 Ram Indra Soi 14, 02-907-2228.

B350.

PLAYGROUND...X SURROUND

Sunn

DON JULIO PRESENTS ERIC BYRON

The official DJ of the Hard Core Dior parties, and founder of Drop (Hong Kong), plays classic disco and early house music, with local support by resident DJ Maarten Goetheer. Special drinks by head mixologist Hideyuki available on the night. Jul 3, 9pm. Vogue Lounge, 6/F, Mahanakhon Cube, Silom, Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Rd., 02-001-0697.

Free. BTS Chong Nonsi.

SUNN - THE JOURNEY CONTINUES

Although the location is still to be confirmed, save the date for the Kolour crew's second installment of its new party concept. Expect food trucks, craft beers, drinks and long hours of partying from the afternoon till late. Jul 11, 5pm.

SINGHA PUBCRAWL: GROOVY NIGHT IN BANGKOK

Singha's infamous pub crawl moves to a classy new venue, with exclusive Singha deals at all outlets, plus free drinks and snacks at Hyde & Seek, Tales of Gold Mine and 1881 by Water Library. The night finishes with an

BREAKING NEWS

exclusive performance by DJ Octo.

Limited to 200 guests. B700 pre-sale tickets available at each participating venue. Jul 11, 7pm. Groove, Rama 1 Rd., 02-264-5555. B900 (one free beer, Singha Pub Crawl T-shirt). BTS Chit Lom. RETOX SESSIONS PRESENTS TJR

The Sanamluang Music pop-rock band takes the stage at Live House Studio, with special guests Better Weather, Tony Phee, Teen8GradeA, Yellow Mustard and more special guests TBA. Tickets available at 081930-3633. Jul 10, 6pm. JJ Green, 110/46 Lad Phrao Soi 18, 086-3315657-8. B600. BTS Mo Chit.

INSPIRATIVE: MYSTERIOUSLY AWAKE

The album launch concert for the Thai indie band, with special guests Free Typewriter and Monomania.

Tickets are available now through bank transfer at on.fb.me/1J4hoMK. Limited band T-shirts available for sale, designed by Sahred Toy. Jul 11, 8pm. Mongkol RCA Studio, 3/F, RCA Plaza (Same building as Tops Supermarket and House Rama RCA), Rama 9 Rd., 081-911-6541. B500.

BRAIDS X MONOMANIA

The Canadian experimental dreampop band will be supported by Panda Records' synth-oriented rockers Monomania at this Mind The Gap Thailand gig. One free drink from Sandport craft beer. Pre-sale tickets available at www.fb.com/mindthegapthailand. Jul 17, 8pm. Moose Bangkok, 24 Ekkamai Soi 21, 02108-9550. B500.

MACHINE HEAD LIVE IN BANGKOK

The veteran heavy metal band from Oakland are on an extended world tour this second half of the year, making stops in Japan, Taiwan and Thailand. This will be their debut live show in Bangkok. B1,800 tickets also available at the door. Jul 8, 8:30pm.

SOUNDBOX: MUSIC TO BE HEARD

A brand new touring live music series powered by Live Nation, a group aiming to promote cutting-edge music across Asia. The first edition in Bangkok features the niche American "schizophrenic" pop duo Twenty One Pilots, the "Samurai" Japanese rock singer-songwriter/guitarist Miyavi (also known from Angelina Jolie's 2014 film Unbroken) and local hip-hop DJ Ono. Jul 22, 7pm. Muang Thai GMM Live House, 8/F, CentralWorld, 999/1 Rama 1 Rd. B1,500.

BTS Chit Lom. BORN TO BE BEN - COME INTO MY WORLD

Thai pop-singer, actor and entertainer Ben Chalatit takes the audience into his sci-fi fantasy world at this full-scale concert by BEC-TERO, featuring his greatest ballads, dance hits and popular covers. Jul 25, 8pm. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4455.

B1,000-3,500 from Thaiticketmajor.

CLASSICAL

The DJ/producer, known for his collaboration with Pitbull for "Don't Stop the Party" makes his Bangkok debut, with opening sets by Ninegod, Skinny Mark and Zuper L. Jul 16, 9pm. Onyx, Soi Soonvijai, Rama 9 Rd.

ASIA SUMMER TOUR "TRIO PHOENIX"

The Asian Trio consisting of Alan Choo from Singapore, Tzu-Jou Yeh from Taiwan and Akkra Yeunyonghattaporn from Thailand, recently named Honors Ensemble 2014-2015 at the Peabody Conservatory, play Rameau, Beethoven and Mendelssohn. More information and reservations at 02-108-8200 or www.triophoenix.com. Jul 6, 7:30pm.

Goethe Institute Auditorium, 18/1 Soi 1, 02-108-8200. B200-500.

SUPERHERO "CHARITY PARTY"

Dress up as your favorite superhero and win prizes at this charity night out.

Donations accepted upon entry, with all door proceeds going to Habitat for Humanity Thailand to build houses under the program "Make Her Day" in Pathumthani. Jul 18, 9pm. Ku De Ta, 39/F, Sathorn Square Complex, 98 Sathorn Rd., 02-108-2000. BTS Chong Nonsi.

TICF 2015

Trio Phoenix

The Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra, in collaboration with the Thailand International Composition Festival, presents a concert that features recent compositions by Tanya Leon, Matthew Rosenblum, Narong Prangcharoen and Zhou Long. It will be conducted by Jose-Luis Novo and Tania Leon, and performed by soloists Christopher McKiggan (piano), Kenneth Coon (saxophone), Lisa Pegher (percussion) and Tapalin Charoensook (cello). Pre-concert talk 45 mins before the show. B100 for students. Jul 11, 4pm. Prince Mahidol Hall, Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd. B300500 from Thaiticketmajor.

Two Very Big Names Return THAI COACHELLA RETURNS

Wonderfruit

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The R&B K-pop boys make a return to Bangkok after three years, and VIP tickets are already sold out for both shows. Expect songs from their earlier years like "Lies" and "Last Farewell" along with their latest hits like "Fantastic Baby," "Blue" and "Bad Boy." Jul 11, 7pm; Jul 12, 4pm. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4455. B1,5008,500 from Thaiticketmajor.

Maroon 5

After making its debut last year at the fields of Siam Country Club, Pattaya, music-slash-lifestyle festival Wonderfruit has announced its second edition. Returning at the same venue, the festival is set to take place across four days this time, from Dec 17-20. B4,500 earlybird tickets are already up online at www.amiando.com/ wonderfruit2015.html, available through Aug 15. Luxury camping and other options can be added later. There are no details yet on the musical lineup and other highlight activities, but last year saw some pretty awesome international acts like Little Dragon, De La Soul, Woodkid and Nick Mulvey, to name a few, as well as food and booze from The Never Ending Summer, Quince Eatery & Bar, Nahm and Appia. We especially enjoyed the ya-dong

and the sunset hip-hop yoga. See www.fb.com/wonderfruitfest for the latest updates.

EXTRA SHOW

Due to popular demand (and the controversial ticketing chaos that ensued), Maroon 5 announced on their official Facebook page last week that they'll be sticking around an extra day after their sold-out Bangkok show to perform again on Sep 22. This has also been officially confirmed by BEC-TERO. That just means us mere mortals will have the chance to fight over tickets via Thaiticketmajor on Jul 5. Tickets will be priced at B2,000-5,000, with a special ticket zone reserved only for those purchasing at Thaiticket outlets. For the latest concert updates, see www.fb.com/bectero.

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now ART Opening Exhibitions

STAGE Performing Arts this July

Peter Pan

Circus CIRQUE DU SOLEIL QUIDAM LIVE IN BANGKOK 2015

The world's most legendary circus premieres its first show in Thailand.

Under the tutelage of director Franco Dragone, the ninth edition of the show takes you into the imaginary world of Zoey, a girl who wishes to escape her mundane daily life. Expect acrobatic artistry from over 100 performers along with exceptional sound and stage production. Eleven rounds of performances, with 4:30pm rounds from Jul 30-Aug 2. Jul 29-Aug 3, 8pm.

Impact Arena, Popular Rd. B1,000-5,000 from Thaiticketmajor.

Musicals DEMON BY PASTEL THEATRE

A dark musical that follows the story of a family after one of them mysteriously disappears. Directed by Rattapong Pinyosopon. Reservations at 085-188-5135. Through Jul 5.

Crescent Moon Space, 65/1 Thonglor Rd., 023813860. B500. BTS Thong Lo.

HEAR THE WIND SING

A musical adaptation of Japanese writer Haruki Murakami's first novel, in which an unnamed boy living in the 1970s befriends a rich heir during his 19 days of school break. A collaboration between 206 performing troupe and Sun Dance Theater.

B350 for students. Reservations at 088-018-5966 and 095-694-9891.

Extra 2pm rounds on weekends, and no performance on Jul 7. Jul 4-12, 7:30pm.

Sun Dance Theatre, 5/F, Silom Society, 12/3 Silom Rd., 088-018-5966. B500. BTS Sala Daeng.

opera THE SNOW DRAGON

Recently premiered in the US to rave reviews, this is the latest production by renowned Thai-American composer Somtow Sucharitkul, known for his contemporary take on opera. Spon-

sored by Skylight Music Theatre (Milwaukee, USA), Department of Cultural Promotion and Opera Siam, the fantasy opera is a short story of an abused young boy and a troubled counsellor who enter an imaginary world filled with dragons and princesses. This is said to be the composer's best production to date. Jul 15-16, 8pm.

Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456. B500-2,000 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

A PAINTER

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MOKAWORLD

An exclusive painting/drawing exhibition by Gugu Lee, a Taiwanese fashion enthusiast obsessed with Comme Des Garcons and Raf Simons, who's compiled his private collection in a visual diary. RSVP is required at hello@56thstudio.com or 081-4832434.

A photography-video thesis exhibition by five senior Chula students from the Communication Arts Faculty at Hof Art Residency, with a focus on fashion, portrait documentary, visual diary and food. The students' short films will be on show again from Jul 11-12 at the BACC. Dates: Opens Jul 4 at 6pm. Through Jul 29.

A colorful, pop-surrealism exhibition of a girl named Modaka, inspired by Venus of Willendorf, which signifies fertility, the beauty of women, love and happiness on earth. Created by local artist Moka.

Dates: Opens Jul 4 at 3:30pm.

Through Jul 31.

Dates: Opens Jul 4 at 6pm. Through Aug 2 56th Studio Private Gallery, Green Connect, Sukhumvit Soi 31.

Hof Art Space, W District, Sukhumvit Soi 69-71. BTS Phra Khanong.

People's Gallery, 2/F, Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02214-6630-8. BTS National Stadium.

Theater 3 DAYS IN MAY

A two-person, three-act production

by For What Theatre, which follows the story of a pair of siblings who meet up to make merit for their late father. Shows run Thu-Mon. Ticket reservations at 086-787-7155. More details at forwhattheatre@gmail. com. Jul 16-27, 8pm.

Crescent Moon Space, 65/1 Thonglor Rd., 023813860. B400. BTS Thong Lo.

WW101

For their co-directorial debut, B-Floor's core members Sarut Komalittipong and Sasapin Siriwanij put on a physical theater performance that commemorates the 101st anniversary of the First World War. Mon-Thu shows at 8pm and Sun shows at 4pm.

Early Bird tickets at B425, available through Jul 15. Tickets available at bfloortheatre@gmail.com and 089167-4039. Jul 19-Aug 3, 4pm.

B-Floor Theater, Pridi Banomyong Institute, Soi Thonglor, Sukhumvit Rd., 089-167-4039.

B450. BTS Thong Lo.

PETER PAN: FAITH, TRUST & PIXIE DUST

The monthly roundup ends with the popular annual play by the students of the Architecture Faculty of Chulalongkorn University, with their creative adaptation of the epic tale of the lost boys, and Wendy's journey to Neverland. Jul 30-Aug 2, Aug 6-9, 7pm. 1:30pm on weekends.

HIGH ON YOU

INSIDE THE MACHINE

PROXIMITY: PART 2

A multimedia exhibition that features acrylic paintings, handmade books, soft sculptures and a bronze installation, all of which capture the universal experience of the paradoxical struggle of love by Orn Thongthai.

Dates: Opens Jul 3 at 7pm. Through Aug 18.

A group exhibition that features Parinot Kunakornwong's edited loop footage from Thai soap operas inside a washing machine, and Etienne Luque's experimental images created with broken machines. Curated by Julie Camdessus.

Dates: Opens Jul 3 at 7pm. Through Jul 26, 7pm.

This collaborative project between Inspiracje International Visual Art Festival, 13 MUZ and the BACC brings over the works of 11 contemporary Polish artists, comprising installations, photography and video art that deal with unconventional issues.

Dates: Opens Jul 3 at 6:30pm.

Through Oct 25.

Soy Sauce Factory, 11/1 Charoen Krung Soi 24, 081-301-2669.

Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-6630-8.

Ink & Lion Cafe, 1/7 Ekkamai Soi 2, 091559-0994. BTS Ekkamai.

I-LAND MINI EXHIBITION

LIFE IS FRAGILE

Award-winning Chinese artist Jing He presents her collection "Potential Pins," which started as a project that turns daily objects into brooch pins.

Dates: Opens on Jul 3 at 6:30pm. Jul 3-Aug 4.

The collected works of Thai contemporary artist Vasan Sitthiket, who's best known for his works mocking politicians such as former-prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The artworks, drawn from pieces rarely exhibited in Thailand, have been chosen to show Vasan's stylistic progression.

Dates: Opens Jul 4 at 6pm. Through Aug 8.

ATTA Gallery, Room 1109, OP Garden, 36 Charoen Krung Rd., 02-238-6422.

Mahitaladhibesra Building, Chulalongkorn University. Phayathai Rd. B260-290. www. showbooking.com

SIGNS

A series of street photographs by local artist Akkara Naktamna, who captures nightmarish, apocalyptic messages through the objects of everyday life, as though they were scenes from a horror sci-fi movie.

Opening party on Aug 1 at 6:30pm, as part of Photo Bangkok 2015 fest.

Dates: Jul 4-Aug 30.

Kathmandu Photo Gallery, 87 Pan Rd., 02234-6700.

Numthong Gallery, 72/3 Phahon Yothin 7 Soi 5 (Ari), 02-617-2794.

PLAN AHEAD More EDM and Indie-Pop in Bangkok this August

Zedd

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Echosmith

TRUE COLORS

COOL KIDS

It’s official. The Grammy Award-winning DJ Zedd is Bangkok-bound this August as part of his Asian Tour.

On Aug 11 he’ll be headlining a brand new EDM fest, Output Festival 2015, at Thunder Dome, Impact Arena.

The 25-year-old DJ rose to fame back in 2012 with release of "Clarity" featuring Foxes, and has a strong list of chart-topping tunes like "Stay the Night" featuring Hayley Williams of Paramore, and the more recent "I Want You to Know," co-written by Ryan Tedder of One Republic. We also really like the fresh new tracks on his latest album like Addicted to a Memory and Papercut (feat. Youtube singer Troye Sivan). Earlybird tickets are B2,300, available now through Jul 10. For the rest of the lineup, check out www.fb.com/outputfestival.

Local gig organizer Feoh Performing Art have confirmed a Bangkok concert date for the up-and-coming indie-pop group Echosmith this August. Known for their previous Youtube covers and double platinum hit single “Cool Kids” back in 2014, the group recently collaborated with Zedd (see left) on “Illusion” from his latest album. The four siblings will be hitting the stage at The Palladium Hall on Aug 7 at 6pm. Tickets will be B1,800 (pre-sale B1,500), available now at gixtix.com. More details on their world tour at echosmith.com/tour.

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now MARKETS

OUTDOOR: ARTBOX EXHIBITION MARKET

When: Jul 3-5, 11am Where: Makkasan Airport Link Station What: After the controversial move to postpone the market last month, the huge outdoor event hopes to avoid the rain with its second episode. All the booths will still be organized inside real shipping containers. 300 stalls in the fashion zone and over 100 stalls in the food and cafe zone, plus live music by local bands.

RIVERSIDE: SOMART SOCIAL MARKET

When: Jul 4-5, 3pm Where: Tha Maharaj, 11/1, Maharaj Rd., 02-866-3163-4, 090-926-5265.

What: The social media pop-up market moves to the Old Town community mall, featuring two outdoor shopping zones, an art workshop zone run by Silpakorn students, two food zones and live music by local bands.

TRAVEL FAIR: 35TH THAI TEAW THAI FAIR

When: Through Jul 5, 10am Where: BITEC, 88 Bang Na-Trat Rd., 02749-3939. Free. BTS Bang Na. What: The popular domestic tourism fair is back with travel deals, spa packages and experience activities from all over the country. We suggest you check out the exhibitors' list in advance at www.thaiteawthaiplaza.com to snag the best rates for your rainy season/winter holiday plans.

SALES: ZAAP/2

When: Jul 10-12, 12pm Where: Bangkok Convention Center at CentralPlaza Ladprao, 5/F, Central Ladprao, 1695 Paholyothin Rd. MRT Phahon Yothin.

What: Fans of Zaap's previous pop-up

HUNGRY?

markets will enjoy the same range of quality online brands at heavily discounted prices ranging from 50-90 percent: streetwear, teen favorites and more.

VINTAGE: MADE BY LEGACY VI

When: Jul 11-12, 11am Where: Central Embassy, 1031 Ploenchit Rd., 02-119-7777. B120. BTS Phloen Chit.

What: The Brooklyn-style vintage flea market returns this month under the theme "Modern Market," set to take over an exclusive part of the luxury mall that has never been opened to the public before. Expect the usual antique finds in a 4,000-sq-meter space, with a panoramic view of urban Bangkok.

BE GOOD: PANKAN #6

When: Jul 11-13, 10:30pm Where: Crystal Design Center, 1420/1 Praditmanoontham Rd., 02-101-5999. Free.

What: Social enterprise Pankan Society holds a secondhand pop-up market, offering furniture, electrical appliances and home decor items at the design-focused mall. Proceeds go towards the scholarship fund at Yuvabadhana Foundation. More information at pankansociety.com.

ROOFTOP: THE GREAT OUTDOOR MARKET

When: Jul 17-19, 4pm Where: TBA What: The popular outdoor pop-up market returns to the city, this time taking refuge at a secret rooftop location in Ekkamai, promising a panoramic view of Bangkok.

Expect a parade of food trucks and Instagram fashion pop-ups.

BE GOOD Draw You A Smile

Sign up for BK Bites & Blends – The inside scoop on Bangkok’s dining & drink scene.

Be a part of the “giving” community this Jul 4 with the Draw You A Smile volunteering project. Spend the afternoon teaching children with special needs how to draw and paint at Baan Rachawadee Ying, Rachawadee Girls’ Home (Soi Tiwanon, Pakkret, Nonthaburi), from 2pm-4:30pm, free of charge. Sign up now at goo.gl/forms/FCb4nDSD9m.

No worries if you’re not free this week as this is an ongoing project that takes place every other Saturday.

www.bkmagazine.com/newsletters Straight to your inbox every Wednesday and it’s FREE!

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Draw You A Smile is a non-profit organization that organizes art activities for children with mental disabilities at Baan Rachawadee Ying with the aim of sustainably developing their mental, physical and emotional health. If you haven’t got the time, you can also buy or donate art equipment like watercolors, color pencils, chalks, brushes, A4 paper and art palettes. All donations will also be directed towards art education at the children’s home. These guys were one of the outstanding 60 social projects named in celebration of HRH Princess Maha Chakri’s 60th birthday, sponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives and Thai-Denmark.

For more information on the project, see www.fb.com/drawyouasmile, or contact the organization directly at DrawYouASmileProject@gmail.com and 089-480-0773.

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now FILM Opening

FREEWILL ASTROLOGY CANCER (Jun 21-Jul 22): “I am trying to be unfamiliar with what I am doing,” said composer John Cage in describing his creative process. That’s excellent counsel for you to meditate on, Cancerian. The less expertise you have about the rough magic you’re experimenting with, the more likely it is that this magic will lead you to useful breakthroughs. To bolster Cage’s advice and help you get the most from your period of self-reinvention, I offer you this quote from Picasso: “I imitate everyone except myself.”

Terminator: Genisys

The Wolfpack

Terminator: Genisys (USA)

The Wolfpack (USA)

Action. James Cameron’s sci-fi classic gets rebooted. When humanity’s last hope John Connor (Jason Clarke) sends Kyle Reese (Jai Courtney) back to 1984 to protect his mother, Sarah (Emilia Clarke), from a Terminator assassin, an unexpected turn of events creates an altered timeline where Sarah is now a skilled fighter with a Terminator guardian (Arnold Schwarzenegger). Jul 2

Documentary. Locked away inside their Manhattan apartment, the six Angulo brothers learn about the outside world through movies. Limited SF World Cinema. Jul 3

The Trials of Cate McCall (UK) Drama. Determined lawyer Cate McCall (Kate Beckinsale) recovers from a breakdown to take on the case of a woman who’s been framed for murder. Jul 2

VIRGO (Aug 23-Sep 22): In her late twenties, J. K. Rowling was a single mother living on welfare. That’s when she began work on her Harry Potter books. One of the world’s most oft-visited websites is HuffingtonPost.com, which Arianna Huffington established when she was 54. As for Harland Sanders, creator of KFC: He didn’t begin building the global empire of fried-chicken restaurants until the age of 65. I hope the preceding serves as a pep talk, Virgo, reminding you that it’s never to late to instigate the project of a lifetime. The time between now and your birthday in 2016 will be an especially favorable phase to do so.

Upcoming

Magic Mike XXL (USA)

Danny Collins (USA)

Comedy/Drama Three years after retiring from stripping, Magic Mike (Channing Tatum) rejoins the Kings of Tampa for one last now. Jul 9

Drama. An aging rock star (Al Pacino) decides to turn around his screwed-up life after unexpectedly discovering a letter from John Lennon. Jul 9

Minions (USA) Animation. Minions Stuart, Kevin and Bob are recruited by super-villain Scarlet Overkill who hatches a plot to take over the world. Jul 9

Dark Places (USA) Thriller. After growing up believing that her brother brutally murdered their family when she was seven, Libby Day (Charlize Theron) must face up to a new reality. Jul 16

Biopic. A film following the life of French missionary Francois Hilaire (Jason Young), who visited Thailand in the early 1900s and wrote the famous Thai-language textbook that’s still used in classes today. Jul 9

Ant-Man (USA)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22-Dec 21): There are lots of inquiries and invitations coming your way—perhaps too many. I don’t think you should pursue all of them. I suspect that only one would ultimately make you a better human being and a braver explorer and a wiser lover. Your first task is to dig deep to identify the propositions that are attractive on the surface but not very substantial. Then you’re more likely to recognize the offer that will have lasting value even if it doesn’t make a spectacular first impression.

F. Hilaire (Thai)

Action. A con-man (Paul Rudd) must assist his mentor Dr. Hank Pym to protect the prized AntMan technology, which allows its user to shrink in size but grow in strength, and save the Earth. Jul 15

Alliance Française The Friese-Greene Club

Jam Every Wednesday night is Cult Movie Night.

Screenings start from 8pm, visit www.fb.com/ JAMCAFEBKK for schedule. 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 089-889-8059. BTS Surasak. Open Tue-Sun 6 pm-midnight.

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LIBRA (Sep 23-Oct 22): It’s the power-building phase of your astrological cycle. To take maximum advantage, convey the following message to your subconscious mind: “I know you will provide me with an abundance of insight, inspiration, and energy for whatever intention I choose to focus on. And during the next four weeks, my intention will be to cultivate, expand, and refine my personal power. I will especially focus on what author Stephen R. Covey called ‘the capacity to overcome deeply embedded habits and to cultivate higher, more effective ones.’”

SCORPIO (Oct 23-Nov 21): I’m a big fan of science and objective thinking. Most of us need more of that good stuff. The world would be a saner, safer place if we all got regular lessons on how to be more reasonable and rational. But in the immediate future, Scorpio, I’ll steer you in a different direction. I believe you will benefit from injecting your imagination with primal raw crazy wild mojo. For example, you might read utopian science fiction and fairy tales about talking animals and poetry that scrambles your intellectual constructs. You could remember your dreams and ruminate about them as if they were revelations from the Great Beyond. You may also find it healthy to fantasize profusely about forbidden and impossible and hilarious adventures.

Free Screenings Movies are subtitled in English and screened at 7pm. Jul 8. Hannah Arendt: Margarethe von Trotta’s depiction of the philosopher and writer Hannah Arendt (Barbara Sukowa), who reported for The New Yorker on the war crimes trial of the Nazi Adolf Eichmann. 179 Witthayu (Wireless) Rd., 02670-4200.

LEO (Jul 23-Aug 22): Your words of wisdom come from Leo artist Andy Warhol: “Sometimes people let the same problem make them miserable for years, when they could just say, ‘so what.’ That’s one of my favorite things to say. ‘So what.’” Can I interest you in that approach, Leo? It has similarities to the Buddhist strategy of cultivating non-attachment—of dropping your fixations about matters that can’t be controlled.

But I suspect you would draw special benefits from the breezy, devil-may-care spirit of Warhol’s version.

So start there.

The schedule follows a daily theme. Films start from 8pm, visit www.fgc.in.th for the full line up and to reserve your seat. 259/6 Sukhumvit Soi 22, 087-000-0795. Open Wed-Sun 6pm-late.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 19): “I find a lot of people physically attractive, but finding people mentally and spiritually attractive is different and much harder for me.” So says 40ozshawty on her Tumblr page. If you share that frustration, I have good news. According to my reading of the astrological omens, you’re due to

encounter a higher-than-usual percentage of mentally and spiritually attractive people in the next six weeks. I wonder how you’ll deal with this abundance.

Will you run away from it, feeling overwhelmed? Or will you embrace it, daringly welcoming the interesting complications?

AQUARIUS (Jan 20-Feb 18): I think you will generate good fortune for yourself by choosing between two equally invigorating but challenging tasks: losing your illusion or using your illusion. Both are quite worthy of your attention and intelligence. To succeed at either would fuel your emotional growth for months to come. You probably can’t do them both, however.

So which will it be: Will you purge the illusion, or put it to work for you?

PISCES (Feb 19-Mar 20): Do you sometimes imagine yourself to be an underachieving underdog? If so, I suggest you start weaning yourself from that fantasy.

Do you on occasion allow people to take advantage of you? It’s time to outgrow that role. Cosmic forces are conspiring to relieve you of tendencies to act in any or all of those ways. I’m not saying you will instantly transform into a swashbuckling hero who knocks people over with your radiant self-assurance. But you will, at the very least, be ready to learn much, much more about how to wield your vulnerability as a superpower.

ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 19): To determine whether you are aligned with the cosmic flow, please answer the following questions. 1. Would you say that your current situation is more akin to treading water in a mosquito-ridden swamp, or conducting a ritual of purification in a clear mountain stream? 2. Have you been wrestling with boring ghosts and arguing with traditions that have lost most of their meaning? Or have you been transforming your past and developing a riper relationship with your roots? 3. Are you stuck in a gooey muck? Or are you building a flexible new foundation?

TAURUS (Apr 20-May 20): Taurus singer Sam Smith won four Grammys this year, largely on the strength of his hit single “Stay with Me.” The song has a lush gospel choir backing up his lead vocals, or so it seems. But in fact, every voice is his own. He recorded 20 separate harmony tracks that were woven together to create the big sound. What would be the equivalent in your world, Taurus? How could you produce a wealth of support for yourself? How can you amplify and intensify your efforts so they have more clout? Now would be an excellent time to explore possibilities like these.

GEMINI (May 21-Jun 20): Born under the sign of Gemini, Gustave Courbet (1819-1877) was a French painter who upset traditionalists because he wasn’t interested in creating idealistic art based on historical and religious themes. He focused on earthy subjects, like the day-to-day lives of peasants and laborers. So even though he became a highly praised celebrity by his mid-thirties, the arbiters of the art world tried to exclude him. For example, they denied him a place in Exposition Universelle, a major international exhibition in Paris. In response, Courbet built a temporary gallery next door to the main hall, where he displayed his own work. Gemini, I urge you to be equally cheeky and innovative. Buy yourself a megaphone or erect your own clubhouse. Do whatever it takes to show who you really are.

Japan Foundation Movies are subtitled in Thai and screened at 6:30pm. Theme for July is Spirit. July 10. Ghost Pub (1994): When a widow breaks his vow with his late wife to stay single, she returns to his pub in Yokohama to haunt the new couple. 10/F, Sermmit Tower, 159 Soi Asoke, 02-260-8560. www.jfbkk.or.th

Get all the latest events and restaurant openings from BK Magazine in real time with BK Now

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Neighborhoods

www.bkmagazine.com/neighborhoods

Complete guides on where to eat, drink, shop and play in all your favorite areas of Bangkok.

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marketplace PROPERTY For rent

For Sale

Advertise here from only B5,000!

ONYX Phahonyothin, part of the condominium collection

by Sansiri. Located close to BTS Saphan Kwai, super market, food stalls, hospital and a short walk to Jatujak market.

You will enjoy full facilities at the building such as swimming pool, exercise room and garden. 1 Bed from 17k/month.

Call 0843610798

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Anghin Architecture. Bangkok-based designer, architect and interior architect with experience in residential and commercial projects, handling both design and project oversight. At Anghin Architecture, we believe simple, functional design is naturally elegant. Do you have a project?

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last word

Patama Roonrakwit Pioneering Thai architect Patama Roonrakwit, 47, has made it her life’s work to improve the situation of people living in Bangkok’s slums. In 1997, she founded Community Architects for Shelter and Environment (CASE), an architectural firm working with communities across Thailand to develop impoverished urban settlements. In 2010, the Office of Contemporary Art and Culture, Ministry of Culture of Thailand, awarded her the Silpathorn Award.

We caught up with Patama on her return from this year’s arcVision Prize in Milan, where she received an honorable mention in the Women and Architecture category, to discuss her lifelong obsession with houses, and why you should never call her a community architect.

My obsession with houses reached the point of madness. I developed the habit of trying to figure out the construction plan of every interesting, complex-looing house I came across.

I believe in fairy tales. My parents dedicated two walls of our home in Sukhumvit for me to paint. On them I drew angels flying from place to place, granting wishes to people. Never did I think I would later become that angel myself.

I first used my architecture skills to make a difference in 1995.

While doing my master’s in the UK on housing design for low-income people in Thailand, I flew back to Songkhla to do research, and actually got to put my architectural skills to good use.

As I grew up I became jaded and, at one point, found myself sitting on the side of the road wondering what had gone wrong. Instead of waiting for an angel to come and save me, I picked up my pen and relentlessly started sketching the nearby reeds in my notebook.

Be open. When you are a complete stranger who appears out of nowhere to work with poor people, you have to listen and learn. I always tell myself that.

I have adored little houses since I was a kid; treehouses, gingerbread houses, you name it. I never owned any real toys. I had to build my own if I wanted something to play with.

I remember building myself a small village from cardboard boxes, using all of my childish ability.

I am not a fairy godmother, although my work makes me look that way. I want people to understand that I’m a normal human being. Just because you’re poor

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doesn’t mean I’ll be all Angelina Jolie and build you a library for free.

Most of the money comes from third parties. Things can easily digress when dealing with people who live in Bangkok’s slums.

A powerful third party can control both sides: people and architects.

Slums are like a deep-rooted cancer that we’ve only been curing on the surface, rather than addressing at its core.

This city needs its poor.

They’re part of the big picture. Without them who will make our somtam, who will clean our s i d ewa l ks ?

As long as we overlook these people then development plans are only goofy fairytales.

I’m not a female architect. I’m an architect.

I want people from these communities to hire me for projects.

The money would come from every household in that community: B20 -30 per person, depending on the size of each house, would be enough to keep me rolling.

At one of my workshops last year, I asked the attendants to follow the life of someone they see on the street; interview them, take pictures of them. What we found was eye-opening. The people we

often look down on like noodle sellers—even ones whose food tastes like shit—can earn B20,000 a month. One truck driver selling sugar cane made no less than B80,000. A municipal official only makes B15,000 a month.

I feel slighted every time I get called a community architect. It implies I have a lack of design sense or that I got an F while studying and that’s the only reason I work helping poor people.

I’m not a female architect. I’m an architect. Good God, do we have to draw a line between the sexes?

There are already so many lines in this profession: landscape architect, interior architect, construction architect and now community architect. It’s absurd. Architects, no matter what major they come from, should be able to handle jobs on any level. Interview by Sam Nathapong

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