BK Magazine 597 July 10, 2015

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How we’ve grown

BK MAGAZINE NO. 597 FRIDAY, JULY 10, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com

SEEDS OF CHANGE THE NEW PARKS BRIGHTENING UP OUR CITY

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page 3 Black Spots 6 cover story

Green Spaces 10 escapes

16 fashion

Regional Roundup

Ugly Chic

18 home

24 bites

Phrom Phong

Dining Trends

There are just some spots in Bangkok that were never meant to be turned into businesses. Don’t call us superstitious or anything. When a rich actress crashes her Mercedes and kills a cop then gets visited by that cop’s spirit and blessed with forgiveness, we’re kinda inclined to take it with a pinch of salt. But clearly, this location had bad ju-ju.

And it’s not alone. Take up shop in one of these cursed places and, however exciting your concept, however many Michelin-star kitchens your chef has been a line cook in, you are going to fail. Fail quickly. And fail badly.

26 restaurant

37 last word

Anyone planning to open a restaurant, take note of the following addresses:

Next Mex

Body Language

Too Deep in Suk 31

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

Wow, that didn’t last long. Not six months since it opened its doors, Abbot, the restaurant that promised to have us all dining on avocado salads and fish tacos just like they do in California, has closed its doors. We’d love to say we never saw this coming.

But even a passing glimpse at the location’s former history should have warned all involved that this was not a good idea.

Advertising Director Wanida Akeapichai Sales Manager Tipkritta Chiraporncharas Orajira Sukkasem Senior Sales Associates Tassanee Mahamad, 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 IT Manager Takrit Jitjaroen Distribution Executive Suda Angsuputiphant Finance Manager Supaporn Bangmoung Assistant Finance Manager Anchalee Limkhamduang Senior Accountant Maneeya Kanthongdang

What could go possibly go wrong on Sukhumvit Soi 31? It’s cool restaurant central: Appia, Peppina, Harvest, more niche Japanese whiskey bars than we can name. So why this address that’s no longer Abbot––number 253/2, to be exact—has gone through three restaurants in practically as many years we have no idea.

Administrator Yaovaluck Srisermsri Accountant Manita Bangmoung

The Old Playground

Contributors Rob Brezsny, Kathy MacLeod

It’s in the most prime spot you could ever imagine. That golden stretch of Thonglor between Soi 10 and Bottom’s Up, where all the people are young, rich and desperate to buy crepe cake from your overpriced dessert cafe. But not here.

Interns Arisa Wiwatsomwong, Thammika Sawaengsri, Lalita Kittisrikangwan, Pimploy Phongsirivech, Jatuphorn Yamprasert, Varunthorn Uraroongroj, Pornchanit Visitchaichan, Korakodch Suratanamongkon, Pinyapat Bannarakhiran 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

Below Eight Thonglor OK. Maybe this one’s not so hard to figure out. Underground and invisible to everyone, why you would open a business here is beyond us. We wish its current occupiers, a kind of Iron Fairies rip-off called House 10, the best of luck.

What Was Once Coffee Society

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

We’ve been working around here for a while now. And every time a new place opens in this shop-house steps from the BTS Sala Daeng escalator, odds are it’ll be having its interior stripped on the same day the following month.

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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@bkmagazine BK Magazine Friday, July 10, 2015

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upfront HOT OR NOT

Hot: Cremeux

Not: Macarons

Apparently, it’s a French word. But one of our editors who speaks a little French (being French and all) did his best to Google this. All he could find was a forum in French where someone asked, “What is a cremeux?” And everyone replied, “Je ne sais pas.” But who cares about that. When a dessert we’d never heard of before turns up twice in one issue (see page 27), we know Bangkok’s found it’s new macaron. For more real food trends, see page 24.

Hot: Second-line restaurants

Not: Second-line fashion

We thought these fashion second lines were meant to be more wearable than the designers’ main brands. We even said so in our cover story (ow.ly/P7SjU). But we’re not seeing how “wearable” fits in with bright pink leotards and hot pants smaller than bikini bottoms. When modernist Thai chef Thitid Tassanakajohn (Le Du) says he’s going back to basics, he really means it. The dishes at Baan (see page 20) look (and taste) just like your aunty made them.

Hot: CheckBait

Not: Clickbait

Time’s up on Bangkok’s mushrooming industry for copycat websites. Manager reports that in the one week since CheckBait (www.fb.com/CheckBait) launched, the clickbait-busting website has cut traffic to the likes of Boxza, Dek-D and Catdumb by 25 percent. That means you might actually have to visit BKmagazine. com to read our insufferable listicles.

Hot: Ugly sandals

Not: Chic sneakers

Three-hour queues for Converse’s United Arrows collaboration. Lucky draws and even longer waits for Kanye West’s Yeezy sneakers, after only 34 pairs were let into the country. Keeping up with the sneaker game is hard work. Which is partly why we’ve changed our tune on sandals. Whether strap-ons or slides, they’re easy to wear. Style-wise, it’s another story––see how to make even Birkenstocks look cool, page 16.

STREET TALK Vudi Somboonkulavudi, 32, is a partner at Sugar Ray cocktail bar and one of the founding members behind Made by Legacy (see BK Now, page 29), the Brooklyn-inspired flea market that arguably kick-started the weekend market trend in Bangkok. Twice a year since 2012, the now-iconic event has taken place at historic locations around the city.

This Jul 11-12, however, marks the first time the market has moved to a shopping mall, when it takes over the unopened sixth floor of Central Embassy. Here, he talks about why we should care about the history behind the things we buy.

Why do you care about vintage pieces?

Do you ask your vendors to conform to a certain style?

What kind of fashion do you think is best for Thailand?

It’s important to know our legacy.

This flea market is partly aimed at inspiring a young generation to learn about history through the story of products, and to develop an appreciation of craftsmanship. Who cares if youngsters know the history of Ayutthaya—they should get interested in the things that excite them, even if it’s the history of a brand like Levi’s.

No. I’ve never asked a shop to decorate its stall according to our concept. They can show up however they want. The shops in Made by Legacy flea market offer collectible items, disposable but not worthless.

Place your grandmother’s chair from the King Rama V period in a new context and it can be loved again.

What’s special about Made by Legacy?

It’s called “Modern Market” because this time I want to send a message to Bangkokians. Some of our returning shop owners think I’m no longer doing vintage but that’s wrong.

I’m just finding a new context and a new theme; something that fits a luxury mall like Central Embassy but still feels like a flea market.

Our economy is in turmoil. So the kind of fashion that’s best is something you can afford. It could be anything, as long as you don’t have to binge-eat instant noodles by the end of the month or call your parents to borrow money. With a sense of style who needs expensive clothes? Empty, desolate shophouses can become cool hangout places in the hands of creative types. It’s the same for flea markets—they may become the new high-end. Who knows? Interview by

I want our market to convey that Thailand has a unique way of re-appropriating items that get dispatched thousands of miles from the world’s hippest boroughs. I try to give the market Thai characteristics because that’s my heritage of which I am proud.

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What’s the theme for this July’s market?

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Sam Nathapong Made by Legacy at 6/F, Central Embassy, July 11-12. For more information, 093-002-9883.

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THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

by Kathy MacLeod kathymacleod.blogspot.com

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cover story

PARK LIFE

From a huge new park by the Crown Property Bureau opening in August to small-scale independent initiatives, there are new green spaces dotted all over the city. Here are the people behind them.

By Monruedee Jansuttipan and Sam Nathapong

PATHUMVANARAK PARK

Until recently, not much was known about the renderings of a rumoured new park next to CentralWorld that went viral in May. But the project, called Pathumvanarak Park and headed by the Crown Property Bureau (CPB), is actually very near completion. Here, we talk to Thana Khachaphrai, chief of the business projects division for the CPB, who confirms the land will open as a new public park this August.

How did this project get started?

rai is still under construction and will be ready to open this August.

The second batch, which is currently being rented by CPAC Concrete, will start construction by the end of this year after they move out. The last batch, which is now a slum, is still in the process of compensation.

Plans for a park on this land dedicated to the king have been around since 1995. Leading Thai architect Yodyiam Teptaranon has designed this park under the theme “Father’s Garden,” in accordance with the king’s work and teachings. Specific Does the CPB Specific trees will trees will be used be used to treat sew- have plans for any to treat sewage, while the Season age, while the Season more parks? at the moment, Changes garden Changes garden will Not as we’ve also just will utilize seasonal utilize seasonal plants created Nakapirom plants to balance the quality of the to balance the quality Park near Wat Pho. But in the future water. The highof the water. we plan to develop light will be a soil land with tenants wall featuring soils who fit with our motto of developin a range of colors taken from the ing economy, society, environment hundreds of districts across the counand culture. We just leased 88 rai of try that the king has visited. land that used to be Suan Lum Night Bazaar to the Univenture Group, who How much of the park will be will build a new complex that incorready by August? porates 30 percent green space.

The opening will be separated into

Pathumvanarak Park

“

CHALERMLA PARK

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three phases. Seven rai of the first batch is finished, while another 12

Chalermla Park

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has quietly revamped this abandoned space near BTS Ratchethewi belonging to the Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) into Chalermla Park, a tiny green space that opened in Febuary this year.

We spoke to Prasert Jewcharoen, 47, Ratchathewi district’s gardener, who’s worked in the area for more than 10 years.

What did you do with all the waste material that was in this area?

It took us nearly two months to get rid of all the old rubbish and concrete debris. We used six-wheeled trucks to carry it out every night.

Ratchadamri Rd., next to CentralWorld, BTS Siam

Chalermla Park

How has feedback been since the park opened?

cheerful. Graffiti artists can come to paint here freely. The only thing that I ask is that they don’t damage my grass! It’s hard to grow and maintain.

As a gardener, what do you want to say to Bangkokians?

“Please don’t

Please don’t hurt trees— hurt trees— they’re your taxes. We try to take care of these trees they’re your as much as possible. We People mostly come once had a case of a nootaxes. to use the park in the dle stall pouring hot soup mornings and eveonto a tree’s root until it died. As nings, jogging or having picnics. soon as we planted a new tree, Small children run around. they started doing it again.

Do you allow graffiti murals on Phayathai Rd., next to Hua Chang the walls?

”

We have no problem with that graffiti. I actually kind of like it. It makes the park more colorful and Chalermla Park

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Bridge. Open 5:30am-7pm.

BTS Ratchathewi

Chalermla Park

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ADVERTORIAL

OPPORTUNITY IS EVERYTHING LOCATION IS EVERYTHING Five things that make life on Sukhumvit 71 a pleasure

3. It’s a hub of healthy living Staying away from the crowd doesn’t mean you won’t have your pick of some of the city’s finest fitness facilities. As well as the friendly Sakolpan Sports Club, where you’ll find tennis and badminton courts, yoga facilities and a swimming pool, the area is also home to the Training Ground BKK, Asia’s largest Crossfit, strength and conditioning gym.

Located just a few steps from BTS Phra Khanong, Soi Pridi Panomyong, the official name of Sukhumvit 71, is the perfect place to live thanks not only to its amazing transport connections, but also the booming range of lifestyle facilities in the area. While the Thonglor-Ekkamai neighborhood is becoming increasingly crowded, Sukhumvit 71 remains a hidden gem for those looking for the right place to live.

Here are just five of the reasons why.

2. The pace of life is less hectic Sukhumvit 71 has a high number of low-key residential properties compared to the nearby business districts. Here, you’ll find an area with a warm, less-hectic atmosphere that’s buzzing with its own bar and restaurant scene—Celio and Okinawa Kinjo are just two of the many highlights. And it’s all well connected with the center of town, too.

4. The art and design scene is booming New boutique hotels and independent art galleries are really giving this area the sense of an art-and-design-focused community. Hip art collectives like Mastang Nuro Hotel and GOJA gallery were two of the first on the scene, while new places keep popping up all the time, like Refill Now! hostel and the new Naiipa Art Complex community mall.

5. It offers great value for money

1. The transport connections are some of the best in the city Sukhumvit 71 is just around the corner from BTS Phra Khanong, and not far from BTS On Nut, either. On the Skytrain, it’s just one or two stops to reach the business and nightlife hubs of Thonglor and Ekkamai, while a couple more stations takes you to Asoke and the MRT. For those who drive, Sukhumvit 71 is perfectly located between Sukhumvit and Petchburi, offering easy access to Southern Bangkok on Rama 4, or Rama 9 on the other side. Need to head across town? No problem. You’ve got the Ram Intra-At Narong expressway right on your doorstep. Traveling to Survanahumi International Airport is also a breeze, with the Ramkamhaeng Airport Link station close at hand.

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There’s a reason why property insiders are calling this one of the best investment areas right now. Here, you’re not investing only in new property, but in a lifestyle that homebuyers and rental tenants want. It’s not just about a new home, but location, facilities and a healthy lifestyle all in one place.

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cover story SIAM GREEN SKY

Siam Square One, the shopping mall situated on the 4,800 sq meters of land owned by Chulalongkorn University in the heart of Siam Square, has opened an urban green space on its rooftop. Run by Kotchakorn Voraakom, 35, a landscape designer and lecturer at Chulalongkorn’s Faculty of Architecture, Siam Green Sky aims to be an agricultural learning center that’s open to all members of the public to discover how to grow edible gardens.

How much green potential is there in Bangkok’s rooftops?

market every third Saturday of the month, offering free stalls to real farmers. Moreover, we Climate change will cooperate with the is a global con- shops in Siam Square cern—and our One and allow them to use our space to plant city is screwed. their own vegetables.

Many rooftops in Bangkok are wasted areas that just get used to store unwanted stuff.

These rooftops have the potential to become green spaces, which in turn would help filter heat before it reaches the building. Reducing heat radiated by rooftops can abate the kind of severe tropical storms we’ve seen recently.

“

How can the public engage with your project?

We want to communicate to people that, even though we live in the city, agriculture is still important. It’s not a far-fetched idea to create urban green spaces for public educational purposes. We will provide free workshops and lectures on urban green space and agriculture, to be held by academics, as well as a farmers’

Siam Green Sky

”

What should Bangkok’s property developers consider when building new projects?

Climate change is a global concern— and our city is screwed. New projects are all using an old-fashioned business model which only looks for temporary profits. Investing money in environmental-friendly infrastructure shouldn’t be considered squandering money as it has the potential for long-term profit.

Siam Green Sky

Siam Green Sky, 7F, Siam Square One, 991 Rama 1 Rd. Open Wed and Sat from 10am-6pm. BTS Siam. Reserve your tour at 099-001-8514

Siam Green Sky

Siam Green Sky

ROOT GARDEN

Founded by the not-for-profit organization Plick Feun Puen Din Thai (Land Reform in Thailand), this tiny garden near Pridi Banomyoug Institute on Soi Thonglor has a one-year contract in order to show how neglected land can be easily utilized by poor urban farmers. BK talked to Warut Boontarig, 25, the garden’s manager, who explained what he hopes to achieve in the project’s limited timeframe.

Root Garden has been operating for half a year now. How has the feedback been?

Root Garden Root Garden

disrespectful to the former owner, whose grave is here. This garden is testimony that self-sufficiency is possible in any part of the city.

At first we targeted twenty-somethings. These people are my peers How are you measurso I understand them ing the success of this This garden is well, and farming is like project?

Siberia for my generatestimony that tion—we know nothing self-sufficiency is We aim to emphasize the importance of barabout it. But now we possible in any ren wastelands, and also have older visitors, show that they can be mostly families taking part of the city. put to short-term use. their children to expeIt’s a shame to let land in the cenrience something they can’t see at tral business district go unused. Root home. It’s good that there’s a place Garden collects data from our visifor kids to spend time with nature. tors and follows up to see if they are inspired to create their own gardens How much is this land in the midat home. But there’s a lot we still dle of Thonglor worth? And how have to achieve in the six months can you justify not turning it into next. a commercial business?

“

”

Root Garden

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Root Garden

The value of this 1,000-sq-meter area is approximately B250 million. But turning it into a commercial project is unfeasible as well as

67 Thonglor Soi 3, 083-060-1109.

Open Tue-Sun 8am-8pm. www.fb.com/Rootgarden.thonglor

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escapes Bradii

EVENTS

Plan Ahead

Ansan Valley Rock Festival

The best regional festivals, concerts and sports competitions worth traveling for this July-September. By Thammika Sawaengsri and Pimploy Phongsirivech Splendour in the Grass A Shino

Taiwan International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

Boryeong Mud Festival

Fuji Rock Festival

JULY SOUTH KOREA

Boryeong Mud Festival Date: Jul 17-26 Location: Daecheon Beach, Boryeong, South Korea This famous festival takes place on Daecheon Beach, on South Korea’s west coast, where the mud flats are popular for their skin benefits. At the festival, you will encounter mud-filled activities, like mud slides, mud boxing rings, mud wrestling, mud body painting and mud trampolines. There will also be concerts every night by both international and local artists.

JAPAN

AUSTRALIA

Gion Matsuri

Splendour in the Grass

Date: Jul 1-29

Date: Jul 24-26

Location: Yasaka Shrine (also known as Gion Shrine), Kyoto, Japan

Location: North Byron Parklands, New South Wales, Australia

Gion Matsuri is one of Japan’s most famous festivals, dating back to the ninth century. It was held initially to appease the gods whose dissatisfaction was believed to cause conflict within the local community. This is a great chance to see massive traditional floats, witness theater performances and take candid photos of real geisha and maiko (apprentice geisha). Wearing a yukata (a summer kimono) is highly recommended.

Australia’s largest winter music festival has had a rapidly growing turnout since its debut in 2001 thanks to its consistent lineup of international acts.

This July will see Mark Ronson, Florence and the Machine and Blur headline the three-day festival, supported by the likes of Death Cab for Cutie, Tame Impala and Azealia Banks.

www.yasaka-jinja.or.jp

www.boryeongmudfestival.com

Ansan Valley Rock Festival Date: Jul 24-26 Location: Daebu Sea Breeze Theme Park, Ansan, South Korea

MALAYSIA

Fuji Rock Festival

Bloodrunner

Date: Jul 24-26

Date: Jul 31

Location: Naeba Ski Resort, Yuzawa-cho, Niigata, Japan

Location: Putrajaya, Malaysia

Not far from Seoul, on Daebu Island, one of the best live music festivals in South Korea is held annually. This year, Ansan Valley Rock Festival showcases big-name international artists such as ex-Oasis member Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Deadmau5, Ride, Alexandros, Benjamin Booker and Kiha & The Faces. Ticket prices start at W120,000 (around B3,620). Early bird tickets are sold out, so hurry!

Featuring over 200 Japanese and international artists, Fuji Rock Festival is the largest outdoor music festival in Japan. This year’s lineup will be headlined by big names Foo Fighters (Fri, Jul 24), Muse (Sat, Jul 25) and Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds (Sun, Jul 26). Also performing are Owl City, Deadmau5, Ride, Motorhead, The Vaccines and many more. Tickets to this event, which aims to be “the cleanest festival in the world,” start at Y16,800 (around B4,540).

valleyrockfestival.mnet.com

www.fujirockfestival.com

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Very limited single-day tickets available through Jul 20. www.splendourinthegrass.com

Billed as Malaysia’s first werewolf-themed urban fun run, this marathon takes over the city streets of Putrajaya, to the south of Kuala Lumpur. The chip-timed race will cover a 10km urban obstacle course, where participants (aged 18 years and up) and will be challenged to overcome various hurdles. Gates open at 7pm. Starting ticket price is RM118 (around B1,065). www.bloodrunner.com

Gion Matsur

TAIWAN

Taiwan International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta Date: Through Aug 9 Location: Various spots in Taitung county, Taiwan Founded in 2011, this festival gathers hot air balloons and pilots from around the world. The airborne activities are set against the spectacular landscape of Taitung county. At night, concerts and themed balloon shows will take place. Booking isn’t available as tickets can only be bought upon arrival at each location. www.balloontaiwan.taitung.gov.tw

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Pingyao International Photography Festival

2015 Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix LuxTonnerre

Rainforest World Music Festival

Busan International Magic Festival

AUGUST MYANMAR

Taung Pyone Nat Festival Date: Aug 25-30 Location: Matara, Mandalay, Myanmar One of the largest Nat (spirit) festivals in Myanmar, this event takes place over five days at the shrine known as the “Pagoda of Wishes,” in the north of Mandalay. There will be offerings and traditional Nat dancing, in which visitors are welcome to partake. www.travel-myanmar.net/festivals2015

CAMBODIA

MALAYSIA

Rainforest World Music Festival Location: Sarawak Cultural Village, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia This three-day festival in the heart of the Borneo jungle will gather artists from around the world such as Alaverdi (a Georgian folk ensemble) and Bargou 08 (a Tunisian band). Don’t forget to bring your own chairs and mats to enjoy the lush scenery.

Presale tickets start at RM110 (around B995) from www.gorillatix.asia

The 2nd Angkor Empire Full JAPAN Summer Sonic and Half Marathon Date: Aug 9

Date: Aug 15-16

Location: Angkor, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Location: QVC Marine Field and Makuhari Messe, Tokyo, and Maishima Summer Sonic Osaka Site, Osaka, Japan

This race tracks a scenic route through the ancient Angkor Wat complex, complete with its numerous 12th-century temples. Proceeds will support disabled people and poor children in Cambodia.

Volunteers for the event are also welcome. www.angkorempiremarathon.org

SOUTH KOREA

Busan International Magic Festival Date: Aug 2-5 Location: Haeundae Beach, Busan, South Korea The largest magic festival on the continent brings together over 100 magicians from around the globe in events including “magician lectures,” “magic dramas” and “night magic gala shows.” www.hibimf.org

Summer Sonic

Date: Aug 7-9

This yearly two-day music event takes place in both Tokyo and Osaka on alternate days. This year the festival celebrates its 15th birthday with a star-studded lineup featuring Pharrell Williams, Imagine Dragons, Kodaline and Ariana Grande, Zedd, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Marilyn Manson and The Chemical Brothers. Tickets are priced from Y15,500-30,000 (B4,215-8,150). www.summersonic.com

AUSTRALIA

Brisbane Festival Date: Sept 5-26 Location: Around Brisbane, Queensland, Australia Each year, this three-week festival showcases a wide range of performances, from circus acts and

operas to photography exhibitions and art installations. The music lineup this year features some of Australia’s top talents, plus a tribute to father and son musicians Tim and Jeff Buckley. www.brisbanefestival.com.au

Art & About Sydney Date: Sep 18-Oct 11

Taung Pyone Nat Festival

SEPTEMBER SINGAPORE

2015 Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix Date: Sep 18-20 Location: Marina Bay Street Circuit

www.artandabout.com.au

The only night race in Grand Prix history and the first street race in Asia, Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix will be held over the course of three days. Entertainment highlights include high-profile international artists such as Pharell Williams (Zone 4 Padang Stage), Maroon 5 (Zone 4 Padang Stage) and Spandau Ballet (Zone 1 Village Stage) on the nights of Sep 18, 19 and 20, respectively.

SINGAPORE

Tickets sold at www.sistic.com.sg and www.singaporegp.sg

Location: Around Sydney, New South Wales, Australia This city-wide festival transforms Sydney’s streets, buildings and parks into galleries and theaters exhibiting photos, art installations and interactive performances.

Singapore International Festival of Arts (SIFA) Date: Aug 6-Sep 19 Location: Various venues around Singapore The 38th edition of this art fest offers seven weeks of inspiring artistic experiences, featuring diverse art pieces, contemporary dance performances through to live stand-up comedy and film screenings. Organized by Art House Limited, this year’s event comes under the theme of “Post-Empires.”

Tickets at www.sistic.com.sg. More info at www.sifa.sg

CHINA

Pingyao International Photography Festival Date: Sep 19-25 Location: Pingyao, Shanxi, China This festival transforms the ancient UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site of Pingyao into one large photo gallery, showcasing the works of renowned Chinese and international photographers. This year, the festival comes under the theme of “Home and Dream.” www.pip919.com

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escapes ESCAPE ROUTES

By Pinnyada Tanitnon

MALDIVES

Deep Blue After launching as the world’s first underwater nightclub in 2012, Subsix (ow.ly/OPgPI) has undergone a lavish renovation and rebranded itself as an “underground playground.” Now, you can also enjoy a boozy Champagne breakfast, laid-back lunch or even hold a wedding reception six meters below the water’s surface. The venue’s formerly sleek interior has been dressed up and the crisp black leather seats have been replaced by chairs resembling sea porcupines beneath a ceiling of hanging circular shells. The floor-to-ceiling windows also make for a beautiful view of exotic sea creatures such as moray eels and hawksbill turtles. The venue plans to host DJ nights, parties and wine tastings, as well as tours led by a marine biologist. Subsix is located 500 meters off-shore from Niyama island, in the Maldives’ Dhaalu Atoll.

PHUKET

On the Avenue Rustic-style bar and restaurant The Avenue (www.facebook.com/theavenuephuket) is the latest addition to Central Phuket’s drinking and dining scene. Open from 7am-midnight, it serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Start the day with fuss-free choices like French toast with seasonal fruit (B120) or middle-back bacon, sausage and grilled tomatoes on homemade bread served with two eggs (B160). Lunch spans sandwiches, salads and burgers (from B190). Come dinnertime the menu turns local, offering Thai dishes such as the yum kai yarng (spicy salad with grilled chicken, B120) and seafood tom yam (B150). Drinks jump from French press coffee during the day to serious cocktails and a good selection of craft beers. Happy hour takes place every Wednesday and Thursday from 5-8pm, with buy-one-get-one on all cocktails.

Beach Bootcamp Next time you’re in Phuket, stop by Nai Harn beach near Rawai to get a workout in and do some good. Clean the Beach Bootcamp occurs every other Saturday at 10am, and consists of a fun fitness class by the ocean followed by some cool-down yoga. Sessions are free, as long as everyone agrees to put on a pair of gloves and pick up some beachside trash afterwards. The founder, fitness professional Krix Luther, launched the bi-monthly event after noticing that the growing trash on the beach was making finding a spot for his regular bootcamps nearly impossible. Interested participants can check the schedule on their Facebook page at ow.ly/OYKbf.

PATTAYA

Dog Days Mirabel Resort (www.mirabelthai. com) is a seven-room boutique resort that aims to cater to every member of the family—including pooches. Most of the resort is surrounded by a giant swimmable chemical-free pool, dubbed a bio pool, which uses a natural filtration and oxygenation system from the surrounding plants and running waterfalls, similar to a natural river. As an added bonus, the apartment and suites also come equipped with private bio-pools. Nightly rates range from B1,800-5,500 depending on day and room type. Bringing a pet? An additional B400 will be added to your total per day.

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

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FASHION

Cool Clutch Quinn is the latest project from local ready-to-wear kings Jaspal, offering younger appeal through bold and surrealist designs. The mother line’s in-house designers stay on-trend with safari-inspired, box clutch designs. Highlights include the red On-Off box clutch (B2,790), animal face cross-body bag (B3,390) and bohemian Art & Craft wedge sandal (B3,590). The shop is now open at 2/F, Helix Building, The Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd. BTS Phrom Phong

HEALTH

FASHION

BEAUTY

Hit the Gym

Smiley Hound

Second Skin

Don’t want to commit to one type of workout, or can’t afford multiple gym membership fees? All-access fitness membership GuavaPass has arrived in Bangkok. Priced at B2,500/month, an all-access pass will grant you the chance to try yoga, CrossFit, indoor cycling, Pilates, dance, muay Thai and fitness training classes at more than 20 studio partners throughout Bangkok, including big names like Yoga Elements, Pilates Station, CrossFit Ten500 and Flow House. Members get unlimited fitness classes at any participating studio. However, most studios impose a limit of three specialized classes per member. guavapass.com

Before we hit the second half of Bangkok’s fashion calendar, local heavy-hitter Playhound has rolled out a new capsule collection.

Can’t Smile With Out You features candy-tone daily wear made in collaboration with actress Jarinporn “Toey” Joonkiat and bears her rainbow-signifying smiley face as the main graphic. Highlight pieces include the basic white T-shirt (B1,090) and crop top (B2,690). The rainbow theme returns as striped details in other items like the oversized dress (B3,990), striped flared jumpsuit (B4,590) and bathrobe-style overcoat (B4,590). The collection is available now at the Playhound flagship store, 3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-252-3861. BTS Siam

British natural skincare brand Aroma Actives, launched in 2013 by aromatherapy expert Geraldine Howard, has chosen Thailand as its first foreign distribution point. The brand is all about the benefits of essential oils and aromatherapy, claiming their products are free of harmful chemicals. Notable items include the best-selling Omega Rich Face Oil (B890), which contains starflower and Ximenia extracts to balance and rejuvenate the skin, and the Deep Cleansing & Purifying Clay Mask (B490), which features mineral-rich black mud from the Dead Sea as well as Kaolin clay and eucalyptus. Available at Boots stores nationwide.

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ADVERTORIAL

On for a Sustainable Ride The Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) has joined hands with the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) to introduce free bicycle parking for visitors and a more sustainable package for MICE organizers.

Riding the sudden surge in popularity for bike culture in Bangkok, the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) has

“

their bicycle to events. Here we talk to Sakchai Pattarapreechakul, President of N.C.C. Management & Development Co., Ltd., who heads QSNCC's MICE industry and sustainability initiatives.

Why start your sustainability drive with bicycles?

“

expanded its sustainable practices by encouraging people to ride

It’s a great choice for MICE organizers to show their sense of responsibility for the environment.

It all started with our staff, some of whom ride their bike to work. So we put up a designated area for them to park next to the the Stock Exchange of Thailand. TCEB then helped us revamp it into proper bicycle parking with a security guard on duty 6a.m.-9p.m. And it’s free of charge.

How has the feedback been?

What do customers get from the Green Meeting Package?

Very good. People love to use it—both staff and visitors—as they

First of all, it’s a great choice for MICE organizers to show their

see it is safe to park their beloved bike here. We plan to expand from 30-40 parking spots to 100 if the demand continues to

sense of responsibility and that they care for the environment.

grow. We’d also like to host bike-related events, like a fundraiser

Our packages offer free Wi-Fi for attendees to download their

for charity.

seminar papers on their laptop instead of using handouts.

We also give away EM liquid (a liquid mixture of important,

What else is QSNCC doing to improve sustainability?

beneficial microorganisms) as souvenirs to our guests and to

We’ve been Thailand’s leading convention center for over 23

surrounding communities. It is made from the food and organic

years and we have started looking into the issue sustainability in

waste from our events. It’s just one of the things we’ve done to

our MICE business for more than four years. We’ve changed our

reduce and manage our waste by ourselves.

procedures in many ways, such as encouraging our customers to pick our “Green Meeting Package” when hosting events here.

Sakchai Pattarapreechakul, President of N.C.C. Management & Development Co.,Ltd

What’s your biggest successful on the sustainability front?

With the help of TCEB, we’re really proud to be Thailand’s first convention center to get certificated ISO 20121 (a certification for event sustainability management systems). We’ve also been certified ISO 50001 for energy management.

Have your efforts inspired others in the MICE industry?

We have many partners and clients who really appreciate our sustainable practices. Our neighbours like The Federation of Thai Industries and the Stock Exchange of Thailand are joining in, too. We hope that our next big gathering, the Travel Bloggers Exchange Asia (TBEX) this October, will help us spread the word on sustainability in Thailand's MICE industry.

Sustainability in the MICE industry with QSNCC

EM

Free Bike Parking Lot

EM EM

Free EM fertilizer liquid from

Solar Charger for

food waste for visitors

smartphones

Shortened food supply chain

By

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

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avenue FASHION

Slip-on Chic www.jesshannah.com

Style by Luca V. for Lookbook.com

Sandals might look a bit weird generally, but they’re currently having a moment in both men’s and women’s street fashion. Here’s how to mix them into your daily look. By Pimploy Phongsirivech and Vasachol Quadri

Black sandal, Zara, B2,990 Adidas Originals Adilette, Adidas, B1,490

Suicoke Spring/Summer 2015

Slip-on, Pull&Bear, B990

The Retro Hiker

The Office Slippers

This year sees the return of another lovehate fashion item, the velcro sandals. If these don’t remind you of your childhood, we pity you. But, then, you may well be able to pull off the youthful look. Think the classic Teva or the so-hot-right-now Japanese brand Suicoke (coming soon to Onion Store).

The Adidas Originals Adilette textured-rubber slides seemed to be resigned to the role of office slippers after their launch back in 2015. But, they’re recently made a comeback thanks to the likes of hip brands Rag & Bone, Charles & Keith and, rather surprisingly, Chloe, who launched shower slides in Summer 2015.

Match with: Maxi dress or skinny jeans (rolled up above the ankle) for girls and jump ankle trousers with basic tee for guys, layered with a jacket.

Match with: Basic tee and rolled up boyfriend jeans for girls. Print T-shirt, shorts and plain socks for guys.

Style by Kristy Woo for Lookbook.com

Teva shoes

Bylon Camouflage print sandal, Pull&Bear, B1,490

Netrix Buck Brown Leather Sandal, Clarks, Price TBA

White leathe sandal, Make A Move, B1,590

Purinutt 2015 Collection Michael Kors F/W 2014 Style by Rowan R. for Lookbook.com

Classic Arizona black, Birkenstock, B4,550

The Daddy Sandals Sure, they look a little old-fashioned, but Birkenstocks had a rebirth of sorts after Celine launched its “Furkenstocks” on the runway in Spring 2013. These comfortable shoes just about make sense if you’re trying to pull off a boyish/minimal Scandinavian street style.

Match with: Girls, go with cigarette pants or ripped jeans. Trousers and formal-wear will do for guys.

The Minimal Gladiator

Prada S/S 2015

Essentials Zara and Pull&Bear.

2/F, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 0 2- 6 5 8 - 6 5 2 5 . BTS Siam/Chit Lom

Gladiator shoes have been hot for both men and women for ages. But while the gold, metallic and suede pairs with fringe details connote an ethnic-inspired bohemian style, we think the simple strapped black leather options are much cleaner.

Match with: Ladies, try an oversized, straight-cut dress or wide-leg pants. Guys, stick to shorts and a Hawaiian shirt.

Purinutt . 2/F, The Emquartier (Qurator Zone), Sukhumvit Rd., 096-884- 0451. BTS Phrom Phong.

Adidas. Order online at www.adidas.co.th

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Flat leather sandal, Zara, B1,490

Suicoke available soon at Onion Store:Aree, 66 Rama 6 Soi 30.

Clarks. 3/F, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-613-1332. BTS Siam/Chit Lom

Birkenstock . Siam Square Soi 5, Rama 1 Rd., 02-252-5414. BTS Siam Make a Move. Order online at www.fb.com/ makeamove.sandals

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avenue NEIGHBORHOOD

Life in Phrom Phong

The Adler Subhashok Gallery

Luxury malls and worldclass restaurants abound in Bangkok’s most exclusive district. But what’s it like to live there? By Sam Nathapong

Peppina

Accommodation HHHHH

Nightlife HHHHH

This prestigious neighborhood continues to grow in popularity, meaning some pretty lofty rents. 1 AP’s The Address (Sukhumvit Soi 28, 085-844-2487) offers one-bedroom units from B45,000 per month, while the more luxurious 2 Emporium Suites (622 Sukhumvit Soi 24, 02-664-9999) combines a five-star hotel with luxury serviced apartments. For purchase, 3 Marque (02-2621111), an ongoing condo project by Major Development, has 147 units starting from B36 Million. Perhaps even more alluring are the older, low-rise condominiums, a number of which can be found on Sukhumvit Soi 26, like 4 AA Court (081-173-770), 5 Neo Aree Court (02-204-1600) and 6 Bamboo Court (081-173-7700). Rent starts at around B20,000 in these places, though units are in hot demand—it might take regular phone calls for several months before something becomes available.

While there’s not much in the way of clubbing, there’s no shortage of places to get a drink, from English-style pubs 16 The Robin Hood (Sukhumvit Soi 33/1, 02-662-3390) and 17 The Royal Oak (Sukhumvit Soi 33/1, 02-662-1650), which hosts stand-up comedy from the Bangkok Comedy Club every Friday night, to some of the city’s finest izakaya. 18 Hanakaruta (Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-6627339), 19 Walden (2/F, 7/1 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 02-662-8087) and 20 Yoichi Nikka (6/11 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-662-4270) are all top spots to imbibe prize-winning Japanese whiskey, while 21 Woodball (Sukhumvit 33/1, 02-662-0417) is where to follow up with a bout of karaoke. Yet more hedonistic delights can be sought in nearby Thonglor and Sukhumvit Soi 22.

Community HHHHH

Your options for escaping Sukhumvit’s notorious smog are limited to either the malls or the enticing 22 Benjasiri Park (between Sukhumvit Sois 22 and 24). We do like that the likes of Sukhumvit Soi 26 have sidewalks you can actually walk on, along with decent greenery and shade. Special shout-out to 23 Quartier Water Garden (5F, Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd.), too, an entire floor of the mall dedicated to artificial waterfalls and ponds amid a lush green garden.

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28 Srinakharinwirot University Prasarnmit Demonstration School (Secondary) (Sukhumvit 31, 02-260-9986)

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Suk

This area is not just Japanese izakaya and quality coffee shops— Phrom Phong arguably offers Bangkok’s widest range of dining choices. Luxury mall Emquartier is hogging the headlines with all its new restaurants, the highlights of which are probably 10 Crab and Claw (7F, Emquartier, 689 Sukhumvit Rd., 095-5645422), with its focus on authentic New England-style seafood including lots and lots of imported lobsters, and Korean barbecue specialist 11 Bulgogi Brothers (8F, Emquartier, 689 Sukhumvit Rd., 098-246-0888). Another recent addition to the neighborhood is 12 Bahn Mi Bo (Ellsie Boutique Mall, Sukhumvit Soi 33/1, 096-886-0052), a food truck-turned-restaurant serving Vietnamese specialties like pho (B150), spring rolls (B85) and, the highlight, banh mi (Vietnamese sandwiches, B90). Sukhumvit sois 31-33 are also home to some of the Bangkok’s very finest establishments, from the molecular fusion of 13 Aston Gastro Bar (68 Sukhumvit Soi 28, 02-102-2323) to the authentic Neapolitan-style pizza of 14 Peppina (27/1 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 02-119-7677) and other homey Italian dishes of 15 Appia (20/4 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 02-261-2056).

Casa Lapin

Transportation HHHHH

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Dining HHHHH

Crab & Claw

Environment HHHHH

vit hum Suk

Gorgeous, hi-so 20-somethings, Japanese families and perpetually bar-bound British expats all appear to coexist in relative harmony.

What the area may lack in tradition, it makes up for with residents who look like they’re always busy—part of the allure. Spot the hipsters munching on almond brownies and working on their Apple laptops at 7 Casa Lapin (Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02-000-5546), the young professionals dropping in for the morning drip coffee at 8 Ceresia Coffee Roasters (Sukhumvit 33/1, 098-251-4327) and the Japanese housewives doing their weekly groceries at 9 UFM Fuji Super (593/29 Sukhumvit Soi 33, 02-258-0697).

Yoichi Nikka

7/6/15 6:11 PM

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bites & blends RESTAURANT

Home Sweet Home Not so long after Origin’s closure, its stylish former home on Wireless Road has been taken over by the rising young Thai chef Thitid Tassanakajohn (Le Du, #3 Top Tables 2015). At Baan, he retreats from the modernist cuisine he learned in New York in favor of homey, everyday Thai meals. Recipes are taken from both his family recipes and those of his girlfriend’s. Though aiming for a relaxed, family-gathering vibe (Thitid’s brother handles the front of house) and more pocket-friendly meals, the chef still takes his ingredients seriously, so expect the same quality as Le Du. In addition to simple dishes like somtam Thai (B120) and stir-fried morning glory (B180), Baan’s signature dishes span slightly more creative recipes like kai palo tom sap (spicy five-spiced egg soup, B280) and stirfried minced dry-aged beef with holy basil (B350).139/5 Wireless Rd., 02-655-89951

LUNCH

Sunday Sleep-in Brunch a little early for you? French restaurant Savelberg, helmed by the Michelin-star-collecting Dutch chef Henk Savelberg, has just rolled out a Sunday lunch menu. Priced at B4,000/set, the menu comprises five courses, paired with half a bottle of Champagne.

Expect modern French-influenced dishes like langoustine with organic tomato, sweet and sour cucumber, pata negra and clear gazpacho; lukewarm oyster, with saffron foam, spinach, and caviar; grilled North Sea turbot with white asparagus, morels, green peas and morel; and strawberry cremeux [see page 4] with sparkling strawberry Champagne. The menu is available from noon2pm every Sunday. People who don’t drink Champagne can take a non-Champagne option at B3,500. G/F, Oriental Residence, 110 Wireless Rd., 02-252-8001

CAFE

Sweet Escape Nestled a bit out of town, Little Hideout draws quite the crowd on weekends thanks in part to its garden setting. Inside the house, you’ll find a coffee counter flanked by an eye-catching cake display.

On top of the coffee (starting at B45) and toast (starting at B175), the cafe’s owner couple, both design graduates, roll out their own list of adorable treats, which they make and sell only on weekends.

Recommended pieces include the Lemon Bite (lemon mousse, cheese mousse, lemon cream and sable breton, B165) and Buche (chocolate hazelnut mousse, dark chocolate cremeux [see page 4], almond streusel, B175). Due to the limited number of cakes, takeaway orders are limited to four pieces per person. 172 Chim Phli Rd., 081-821-8795

BAR

Something’s Brewing About time Sukhumvit Soi 11 got a bar opening to get excited about. After launching The Beer Cap on RCA last year, beer enthusiast and entrepreneur Chis Foo has returned to his blockbuster brand, Brew Beer & Ciders, opening a new branch on the party strip. The new venue takes over a two-story building opposite Marshmallow and sells some 300 imported bottles from familiar importers Beervana, Brewdog, Hopsession and more. On tap, there are currently 10 brews from the likes of Beervana, Leffe, Magners, Paulaner, Bacchus, Stella Artois, Bombardier, Limburgse Witte, Guinness and Brewdog (Punk IPA). Prices start from B240260/pint. To celebrate the opening, get buy-one-get-one-free on tap beer through Jul 27. 30 Sukhumvit Soi 11, 02-255-5532

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ADVERTORIAL

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must-try dishes at PEPERONI

Under its original name of Narai Pizzeria, Peperoni at Narai Hotel was one of the first pizza places in Bangkok. Decades after it first opened, the charming, casual restaurant still serves up traditional Italian dishes made with some of the best ingredients from around the world.

Though the spot in front of the hotel has gone through many changes, the unique soft pizza dough recipe remains. Now, there are even more delights to enjoy in the bright and airy dining room. From the open kitchen, head chef Banchar Sirisom, who has led the kitchen since its opening, rolls out a full Italian menu including the crispy thincrust pizza baked to perfection in a gas-flamed pizza oven. Here are seven must-try dishes.

PIZZA BREAD AND SQUID INK BUNS

ZUPPA DI FUNGHI PORCINI

The basket of complimentary seasoned pizza bread with black squid ink buns is the perfect way to whet your appetite for exploring the rest of the menu. Chef Banchar's fist-sized coal-black bread bursts with squid ink aroma and is seriously moreish. (Tip: You can also buy it at only B120/5 pieces)

Not only aromatic, this thick, creamy soup made of porcini (penny bun) mushroom also bursts with flavor. The bold, mushroom taste and satisfying creaminess make it the perfect starter for your meal. Even when you finish the whole generously-portioned soup, you can't help but ask for more.

BALSAMIC ROCKET SALAD

4 LOBSTER THERMIDOR PIZZA

While rocket has a uniquely sharp aroma with a touch of bitterness, tossing it together with sundried tomatoes, walnuts and parmesan cheese makes for a delicious, mellow salad. The specially blended honey balsamic with herbs adds a refreshing touch, while the accompanying tomatoes, radishes and olives pack lots of bite.

In addition to classic toppings like margherita, Hawaiian and capricciosa, Chef Banchar rolls out a few twists, like this pizza inspired by the French lobster dish. Sumptous, delicious, fresh lobster and cream are added to a cheese pizza, accompanied by carrot and champignon.

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GRILLED SALMON

Lightly seasoned with perfect grill marks, this thick chunk of salmon carries a delightfully natural taste and scent. The

Left - Banchar Sirisom (Head Chef of Prperoni) Right - Kangwal Charoensri (Executive Chef)

accompanying vegetables are just as fresh and shine in their own right. Together, they make a scrumptuous dish that can actually satisfy your cravings without making you feel too full.

SALSICCIA ALLA CREMA DI FUNGHI TARTUFI 6

Here, you can pick your choice of pasta, from available spaghetti, fettuccine, linguine and penne, which will be cooked al dente. In this dish, the chef’s special sausage is sauteed with mushroom, cream and cheese, with truffle paste taking the dish to a whole new level.

TIRAMISU AL ESPRESSO 7

The traditional Italian treat is generouslylayered, with Marsala-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone. Finished with cocoa powder, it tastes as rich and comforting as it looks. This classic dessert is the best to cleanse your palate after a long, hearty Italian meal.

G/F, Narai Hotel, 222 Silom Rd., 02-237-0100 ext. 8155. Open daily 11:30am-10:30pm http://www.naraihotel.co.th ǀ https://www.facebook.com/naraihotel

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PIZZA FOR EVERYONE AT THE NEW PEPERONI PIZZA STORE

Good news for pizza lovers.

Peperoni has just taken over a tiny unit next to Triple Two hotel and opened as a casual pizza bar, which makes it super easy to grab some good slices to satisfy your pizza craving. (Yes, they even have parking spaces for you!) While focusing on takeaway, there are also some seats available inside.

The place sells pizza at only B50 per piece and B360 per big 8-slice pan, au gratin at B50 and baked spinach at B50, as well as drinks at convenience-store prices. Available on the hot display out front are three types of hot-from-the-oven pizza made on the restaurant’s signature soft-crust bread, all with generous toppings: from classic Hawaiian to extravagant seafood and the special Narai (chicken ham, green pea, pork ham)

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Raising the Bar Toasting four specialty Thonglor bars that know quality whisky deserves to be treated as such.

Sugar Ray

BADMOTEL

Black Amber Social Club

The vibe: Located in the heart of Bangkok’s most fashionable nightlife district, Thonglor, BADMOTEL is a firm favorite with the cool kids for its edgy design, good music and great drinks. The three-storey shop-house blends whitewashed, modernist furniture and splashes of color, with each floor maintaining it’s own unique atmosphere, from full-on dancefloor to chill pre-game lounge.

The music: Daily live sets from leading Bangkok DJs like DJ Moola from Vacancy and Pipe from Superzaaab mix old school R&B, boogie and funky house. Look out for the occasional concert, too.

Drink this: Start the night with innovative cocktails like the Extra Anejo (meaning Extra Aged in Spanish), an elegant concoction made with Chivas Regal Extra and the Venezuelan rum Diplomatico Reserva as the two main base spirits, Aperol and aromatized wine, served over ice in a goblet (B325). Otherwise, keep things simple with Chivas Regal Extra on the rocks (B250) or a bottle to share with your friends (B3,200).

The vibe: Chavin “Kwan” Nantaterm started Black Amber last year as a super-stylish gentleman’s barbershop and tattoo business before introducing a gentlemen’s whisky bar. The Victorian curiosity cabinet-inspired decor features the owner’s private collection of Gothic trinkets, from an alligator skull to an ostrich skeleton. The atmosphere isn’t nearly as moody as it looks, making it a great spot to kick back whisky in hand.

The music: Mostly old school R&B, jazz and blues but the piano does come to life for jazz performances every Fri-Sun from 8:30pm onwards.

Drink this: Whisky is the main focus, here. The shelves are filled with familiar bottles like The Glenlivet, Jameson and Chivas Regal 12, which start from a reasonable B200 by the glass. There’s a list of whisky flights to enjoy as well. A good start is the Chivas Regal flight, consisting of Chivas Regal 12 years, Chivas Regal Extra and Chivas Regal 18 years (B540).

You can also complement your drinks with a choice of Cuban cigars starting from B375 a piece.

Thonglor between Soi 15 and 17, 02-712-7288.

Open daily 5pm-2am.

Facebook: badmotel

160/17 Thonglor Soi 6, 092-276-2772.

Open daily 6pm-1am.

Facebook: Black Amber Thonglor Social Club

Sugar Ray

Studio Lam

The vibe: Like Black Amber Social Club (above), this hidden gem on Ekkamai Soi 21 has a real speakeasy feel, rewarding customers with a masculine, gentleman’s club vibe.

It’s run by some very cool cats, who make syrup under the brand Socrates and organize the Made by Legacy flea market.

The interior combines apothecary-whimsy with homey charm: leather couches, wooden tables and steel shelves showcasing jars of spirits. Do note that it’s only open three nights a week: Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

The music: Different themes run each night, but you can mostly expect all-vinyl sets of electro-house, hip-hop and R&B. They also throw the occasional themed party.

Drink this: With Socrates’ syrup specialists at the helm, you can expect all sorts of exciting and flavor-packed syrups used in your cocktails. We highly recommend the popular James Dean (B220), a twist of classic Old Fashioned with Jameson Irish Whiskey on the lead. Or check with the barman for seasonal specials.

The vibe: Joining WTF, Opposite Mess Hall and Zudrangma Records in Sukhumvit Soi 51 alley, Studio Lam is an intimate drinking spot run by Bangkok’s talented DJ Maft Sai, of the aforementioned Zudrangma label. His vinyl store has popularized Thai dancehall and world music in Bangkok while his sets of rare grooves are transmitted around the world as radio podcasts with a loyal following. In keeping with the music, the lively, dimly-lit bar features a massive block party-style tube sound system that pumps out jams to a makeshift dance floor.

The music: World music and dancehall, meaning popular Thai oldies like luk thung and molam, along with rare beats from Africa to Central America. Definitely the most eclectic playlist in town.

Drink this: The cocktails are just as carefully selected as the music, thanks to in-the-know and chatty barmen who won’t shirk away from matching you shot for shot. Try the infused spirit (aka ya dong) served either as shots or mixed as cocktails. One is usually enough. For the rest of the night, we’d recommend you switch to Jameson Irish Whiskey.

Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661.

Open daily 6pm-2am.

Facebook: studiolambangkok

2/F, Baan Ekkamai, Ekkamai Soi 21, 094-417-9898.

Open Wed, Fri-Sat 8pm-2am.

Facebook: Sugar-Ray-Youve-Just-Been-Poisoned

BADMOTEL

Sugar Ray

Black Amber Social Club

Studio Lam

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Holy Cheese

TRENDS

Foodie Fads

2/7 Twice a Week

Forget gua bao and duck waffle. Here’s what you’ll be eating next. By Natcha Sanguankiattichai

Poutine

Basically, poutine is French fries, covered in cheese curds and gravy.

One small bar in the Old Town, Snack Bar (80 Samsen Soi 2, 089608-7836), has claimed to be the only place in Bangkok that offers this Canadian dish for a couple of years while you actually can also find plenty of options at Sway (Arena 10, Thonglor Soi 10, 02-7116052). Fatty’s Bar & Diner (598/66 Asoke Din Daeng Rd., 081-438 7221) currently has it on the chalkboard as a special. And you’ll have to keep your eyes on Opposite Mess Hall’s (2/F, 27/1 Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-662-6330) menu as its version made of house-cut potatoes randomly makes its appearance on daily specials.

Serious Tea

Coffee has been big for a long time. But now’s the turn of people taking tea seriously. Really seriously. From China Town’s Double Dogs (406 Yaowarat Rd., 086-329-3075) and Old Town’s Mitramitr (32 Phra Sumen Rd., 02-126-6567) to Sukhumvit spots like Ekkamai’s Peace Oriental Teahouse (70/5 Sukhumvit Soi 63 [Ekkamai], 097-267-2626) and Thonglor’s Tigerlily (Sukhumvit 49/1, 02-0198287). Or for something seriously special, book dinner at Gaggan (68/1 Lang Suan Rd., 02-652-1700) to try his pride and joy: a highly sought-after form of umami-tasting Japanese green tea which he carries back from his trips to Japan.

Uni-everything

Uni (sea urchin) started off in Bangkok with Japanese food, to be eaten raw on sushi and sashimi. But its popularity has gone well beyond that. Taking the place of foie gras, it’s now appearing in almost everything, everywhere. The most uni-laden dishes we’ve come across so far are Vivarium’s (3675 Rama 4 Rd., 096-878-3027) spicy cucumber salad with uni and New England restaurant Crab and Claw’s (7/F, Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 095-564-5422) spaghetti uni-ara (house-made squid ink pasta with cheese, uni butter, uni sauce and fresh uni).

Lobster Rolls

Thais may have be used to eating this giant beast with the country’s signature green seafood sauce, but now the game has changed.

Western-style lobster in a soft bun is so good people are willing to pay B1,000 for it, like at Crab and Claw and Scruffy Apron (6/F, Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-003-6263). For something more pocket-friendly, check out Lobster and Oyster‘s (Nawamin Festival Walk, Prasertmanukrit Rd., 085- 364-6419, 093-545-1469) at B645.

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Grilled Cheese

It took Bangkok a while for this blood-clogging American guilty pleasure to arrive on the scene. Thanks to Holy Cheese (Rod Fai Market 2, 1390/75 New Ratchadapisek Rd., www.fb.com/holycheesebkk), now we have a place fully dedicated to the dish, on top of new food truck Deli-Q (www.fb.com/deliqbkk) which also specializes in sandwich melts. More traditional American-style melts can also be found at Dean & Deluca (G/F, The Cube, Mahanakhon, 92 Narathiwas Rd., 02-234-1434).

Smashed Avocado

Baan

Crab and Claw

Now that Bangkokians are way too well educated for American eggy breakfast dishes, the trend has moved down under. Yes, avocado toast may be the new eggs Benedict. This Aussie-origin dish, with its health food-evoking look fits in just right with the clean-eating trend, and can now be found on many of Bangkok’s favorite breakfast and brunch menus. Try Roast’s (2/F, Seenspace, Thonglor Soi 13, 02-185-2865) version with country rye bread and roasted vine tomatoes or Tribeca’s (Nihonmura Mall, Thonglor Soi 13, 02-7129209) with feta cheese and walnuts.

Honeycomb

Frozen yogurt isn’t out of fashion just yet, but vanilla soft serve has silently been making a comeback. This time, with a petite piece of honeycomb on top. Korean ice-cream shop Soft Tree (B/F, Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd.) debuted a couple of months ago at Emquartier, where it had people queuing up for a taste. And just when you learn the existence of something, suddenly it’s everywhere. If Soft Tree’s honeycomb is too small for you, get a bigger chunk at Soft Bee (3/F, Central Rama 9, www.fb.com/softbeecafe). You’ll also find it at Crumb (3/F, Central Embassy, 1031 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-1605630) and Muteki (G/F, Empire Tower, Sathorn Rd., 02-670-2888).

Mitramitr

Nitro Coffee

Now that everyone is doing cold brew, someone had to go one step further. Unlike normal cold brew, nitro coffee is infused with nitrogen, kept in a keg and served up on tap just like beer. The result is strong black coffee with a slightly sweet taste and some bubbles. Kaizen (Tai Ping Tower, 582/5 Ekkamai Soi 26 and 28, 098-831-6009) does nitro cold brew at B130 with single origin and blend options. Kanchanaburi-hailing Finca de Barn (on.fb.me/1IsVpxM) is another exciting new player on Bangkok’s coffee circuit, appearing regularly as a stall at foodie events and currently tapping at 2/7: Twice a Week (208 Chulalongkorn Soi 50, Rama 4 Rd., 087-507-1997).

Finca de Barn

Kaizen

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bites & blends market + Events Wine Tasting BKK Wine Club hosts a wine tasting party this Jun 16 from 7-9pm at Garibaldis. For B1,000, you get allyou-can-eat European dishes, as well as a taste of four white and five red wines.

Somerset Lake Point Tower A, 41 Sukhumvit Soi 16, 02-262-0835

Dutch Star From Jul 22-26, Dutch chef Jacob Jan Boerma, head chef and owner of the three-Michelin-star De Leest restaurant in the Netherlands, visits The Sukhothai to show his talents at La Scala and Colonnade’s Sunday brunch. Prices start from B4,000.

Medinii

Free-Flow Premium Dinner Medinii offers free-flow pasta, pizza and drinks with one main course and dessert starting at B999, every day from 6-11pm.

The Continent 413 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-6867000. BTS Asok

starting from B6,000

13/3 Sathorn Rd., 02-344-8888

22 Kitchen & Bar

Vertigo

Chef Kunihisa Goto’s Visit This Aug 22-25, Vertigo welcomes Japanese chef Kunihisa Goto from French restaurant L’Axel in Fontainebleau, France. Prices TBA. Banyan Tree, 21/100 Sathorn Rd., 02-6791200

Vue Foodtruck Fest From Jul 10-12, 4-11pm, Vue gathers food trucks along with live music.

Taste the offerings of Orn the Road, Foodstop, Jungle Juice and more.

Advertise your business with us ­

Thursday Stories Every Thursday from 7-9pm, enjoy free-flow sparkling wine and selected cocktails for ladies with a live DJ at 22 Kitchen & Bar.

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

22/F, Dusit Thani, 946 Silom Rd., 02-2009000. MRT Silom

New Venues The Mud 26 Grill your own fresh seafood amid an American barn-style setting.

The Mud 26, Lad Phrao Soi 26, 081-8221143

707 Soi Charoennakorn 13, 02-861-0298

Bangkok Farmers’ Market at Gateway Ekkamai The weekend foodies market where you can buy products straight from the source. Jul 11-12, 10am-8pm.

Gateway Ekkamai, 982/22 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-108-2888

Scruffy Apron

Scruffy Apron The latest venue from the Hyde & Seek team specializes in retro Western comfort food.

6/F, Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-0036263. BTS Phrom Phong

Missed the guide?

Visit BKmagazine.com/TopTables

K Village Farmer’s Market

K Village Farmers’ Market The weekend market gives you the chance to meet the producers and buy your food from them. Jul 11-12, 9am-5pm.

K Village, Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02-258-9919

Deals King Crab Fest Come-4-pay-2 for every weekend brunch and dinner at Atrium, with prices starting at B2,000

Greenmade Cafe

Greenmade Cafe Farmers’ market-evoking decor (wooden boxes, splashes of green) and a menu to match.

2/F, AIA Capital Center, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 098-832-4590

L/F, Landmark Hotel, 138 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-254-0404. BTS Nana

THE EASIEST WAY TO BOOK YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS

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OPEN DOOR

La Monita Urban Cantina This Mexican restaurant aims to change people's fast-food perceptions of the cuisine.

The buzz: This sleek new mall branch of the much-loved Mexican joint La Monita Taqueria aims to elevate people's expectations of the cuisine. Chef/owner Billy Bautista’s menu goes well beyond fast-food burritos and tacos, serving up plenty of modern twists, seasonal dishes and high-quality ingredients, alongside Latin craft cocktails and a decent view from Emquartier’s sixth floor.

The decor: In keeping with the urban concept, this chic, wood venue doesn’t really look like most other Mexican restaurants in town, though there’s still a definite Latin vibe. The dining room is entirely open—not even a glass window separating it from the rest of the mall—with a “nacho-shaped” triangular bar sitting at the center. Out front sit similarly shaped tables, while behind the bar is more private, with a small outdoor terrace to enjoy a city view.

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The food and drinks: Bautista adds creative ingredients to Mexican classics; think braised beef tongue tacos (B165), duck carnitas quesadillas (B380) and guacamole made with pineapple (B195) or mango (B220). The Surf and Turf Alambres fajita (B1,150) comprises shrimps and New Zealand ribeye steak, while the ensaladas (salads, starting B190), though no longerserved in tostada bowls, still boast crisp flavors from the queso blanco dressing. The refined touches continue with the likes of the indulgent melting cheese dip (starting at B350), which you can have topped with house-made Longanisa pork sausage (B420). There’s also a solid list of ceviche, including a nod to Peruvian-Japanese cuisine (why not?) with the Ceviche Nikkei (yellow fin tuna cured in wasabi-soy leche de tigre, B340).

The well-stocked bar is helmed by British-Spanish bartender

Albert Garcia Mozley (formerly of Iniala Phuket), who whips up classics like Latin-American sangria (B295-320) and margaritas (starting at B295), as well as the more creative Walking Gentleman Whisky Sour (Jack Daniel’s, brown sugar syrup, egg white, B320), in which he uses his own smoking technique for a rich, cinnamon aroma.

Why you should care: There are a lot of good Mexican places opening in town right now, but if you’re looking for something a little fancier than your usual tacqueria, yet still authentic, you’ll want to give this mall-dweller a try. Natcha Sanguankiattichai 6/F, The Helix Quartier, The Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-0036238. BTS Phrom Phong

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Creamy Buzzle

Koongtung

Le Mai Anh

NEW AND NOTED

Ice Buzz

The new honey-flavored dessert trend (see page 24) has spread to Ladprao. Creamy Buzzle (3/F, Central Central Plaza Ladprao, 061-691-4653. www.fb.com/creamybuzzle) is owned by Pataradanai ‘Koen’ Setsuwan, better known as a former member of Thai boy band K-OTIC, and serves treats like soft-serve ice cream topped with honeycomb and cotton candy, souffle, mud pie and honey toast with more than 25 toppings. Recommended dessert and topping pairings include milky soft serve with honey comb, creamy cotton (B109), a soft serve ice cream with cotton candy, and Chocolate Mud Pie with milk soft serve (B125).

Good Morning Vietnam

Situated on Samsen Road for over a decade, Le Mai Anh (237 Samsen Rd., near Bang Khun Phrom Intersection, 02-281-5628. www.fb.com/lemaianhvietnamese) has been given a colonial-style renovation, and introduced a new menu. They serve

traditional Vietnamese dishes made using veggies from their own farm in Pathumthani. The new dishes are inspired by wartime Vietnamese home cooking like Le Mai Anh fried rice (B80) with moo pad ka pi (stir fried pork) shrimp paste, dried shrimps, mooyor (fermented pork sausage) and pickles, khao pad namneaung (fried rice with Vietnamese pork meatballs, B110) and pho with choices of pork, chicken or fish (B75-B85).

Bare Hands

Inspired by American-style seafood restaurants, Koongtung’s (Night Market near Ram Intra-At Narong Expressway, Praditmanutham Rd., 086-761-5558. www.fb.com/koongtung) “eat with your hands” concept sees food served on the table with no cutlery. The owner guarantees that all the seafood is delivered fresh each day from local markets in Mahachai and Khlong Toei. The various seafood buckets include prawns (B189 for small size and B289 for medium size), river prawns (B389) and mixed prawns, clams and mussels (B389). Arisa Wiwatsomwong

TABLE TALK

Scruffy Apron 6/F, Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-003-6262. Open Mon-Thu 11am-10pm; Fri-Sun 11am-11pm The latest venue from the Hyde and Seek team is named in tribute to apron-clad craftsmen the world over and specializes in retro Western comfort food. Dishes cover everything from cold cuts, salads and soups to pasta, sandwiches and meat and seafood mains. The highlights, though, may well be the old-school hotdog cart and the so-called "ice cream doughnut sandwich" (a form of dessert burger) patio out front. Recommended dishes include the on-trend Apron lobster roll (B950), salt beef sandwich (B435), squid ink fettuccine with calamari (B360) and seafood paella (B395).

Exclusive privileges for Citibank credit cardmembers.

Get 10% discount on food only for brunch and lunch Today - 30 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 Explore your favorite

FOOD REVIEWS

Neighborhoods www.bkmagazine.com/neighborhoods

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

For sponsorship and advertising opportunities, email advertising@asia-city.co.th or call 026249613, 614, 620

Akshaya HHHH Indian. 293/11 Surawong Soi Kamchai Iamsuri (connects with Silom Soi 30), 02-236-3733. Open daily 8am-10pm. No alcohol. B

Akshaya is one of those identical-looking Indian restaurants populating the riverside end of Surawong Road—fluro-tube lighting, big food photos on the windows and black steel chairs that scrape against the bathroom-tiled floor. But what Akshaya offers is quite different. Unlike the heavy curries of the North which most casual Indian eaters are familiar with, this one does Southern vegetarian food, most notably dosa; giant, crepe-like wraps with various curried fillings. Huffington Post actually rated dosa #4 in its list of 10 Foods to Try Around the World Before You Die and while we wouldn’t go that far for the offerings at Akshaya, it’s hard to think of a better way to spend B116 on Indian food in this town. That price gets you either one full-size masala dosa (filled with potatoes and lentils) or a masala dosa set, which features a scaled- down (but stil l

Tales of Gold Mine HHHH Asian, American. 1/F, Groove at CenralWorld, 999/99 Rama1 Rd., 02-613-1270. Open daily 11am-11:30pm. BTS Siam. Corkage B500. BB-BBB

F

With its California gold-rush theme, this restaurant stands out from the others at Groove. The earth-hued walls block the sunlight from leaking in, and mining paraphernalia help ram home the concept.

While Tales of Gold Mine’s PR spiel reads like the restaurant’s doing fusion, most of the dishes here have a distinct direction: American or Chinese. Both deliver pleasant if not outstanding flavors, as if the chef’s first priority is to please everyone. On our last visit, business was pretty quiet, and not unlike other restaurants in Groove, Gold Mine seemed a little over-staffed.

While the waiters were attentive and responsive, they weren’t particularly forthcoming with food or drink suggestions. However, sticking with the

Ratings

Price guide

PPPP Forget it PPPP Only if you’re in the neighborhood PPPP A pleasant dining experience PPPP Not to be missed

B BB BBB BBBB

BK pays for its meal and does not call ahead or sit with the chef.

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substantial) masala dosa along with one idly (rice cake) and vada (India’s richly spiced, donut-shaped, savory batter snack). A rounded diet this is not—you’ve basically got starchy carb on top of bread on top of batter—but for flavor and bang for buck, we can’t complain. The dosa’s rice crepe is mildly sweet, crisp and holds together well, while the vada tastes fluffy and richly spiced, not unlike what you’d get on an Indian train journey. Whether ordering from the set or a la carte, you’ll also get a bowl of rasam, Southern India’s cumin-spiced tamarind soup. It’s well flavored, kind of like an Indian version of a tom yam, but could do with being hotter.

The only curry on the menu outside the thali set (B130) is a hearty potato concoction served with puri (unleavened, deep-fried bread, B90). Though the portion is small, so is the price, and the deep flavor and creamy texture make it a real highlight. Much of the rest of the menu is pure bar snack, with plenty of deep-fried treats like baji, pakora and samosa—all basically battered or pastrycoated vegetables that cry out for a big bottle of Heineken (which sadly you won’t find at this teetotal venue). Would we go back to Akshaya? Absolutely. The appearance might not be up to much but it makes for a wonderful fuss-free alternative to Bangkok’s many Indian venues that position themselves as fancy restaurants.

menu’s recommended offerings, we weren’t disappointed. As a starter, the crispy brie nuggets (B250) have a nice, crispy bite that’s complemented by a warm and gooey interior. We like the hint of honey, too, but the accompanying dried fruits taste sweet and sugar coated. The chipotle fries (B250) come with a wellflavored chipotle cheddar cream, avocado chunks, chopped onion and some chili powder. While the condiments are tasty, the thick-cut wedges are rather mushy. On the Asian side of things, the mantau (Chinese steamed buns, B350/3 pieces) are wonderfully balanced when eaten with the accompanying five-spice duck breast and pickles. The salmon and lime quinoa salad (B450), though a little overwhelmed with cilantro and mint, bursts with freshness thanks to the low serving temperature and chopped cucumber mixed throughout. Sadly, the BBQ pork baby back ribs (B450) don’t live up to expectation. Despite being tender and juicy, the heavily glazed, overly-sweet sauce overpowers the pork’s flavor and all the smoky aroma. One of the recommended desserts, the frozen passion fruit tart (B170) is another failure; its tart shell too moist and not at all crumbly or crispy. Despite some sketchy moments, though, Tales of Gold Mine mostly does the job as an easy-to-access place for straight-up comfort food.

Under B500 B500-900 B900-1,500 B1,500 and up Price per person, including one drink, appetizer, main course, dessert, charges and tax.

Symbols

H Reservations recommended F Parking available E Dress requirements G Live music

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now SAT Our Legacy There’s beauty in antiquity (see Upfront interview, page 4), which is why we’ll make time to stop by the Brooklyn-style flea market Made By Legacy this weekend, Jul 1112. Moving to the unseen sixth floor of Central Embassy (BTS Phloen Chit), the market promises a huge range of rare items, including vintage furniture, old watches, vinyl records, custom bikes and classic cars, as well as a whole lot of denim. Entry is B120, but you’ve got 1pm-midnight to do the rounds.

SAT Berlin to Bangkok Due to popular demand, the second installment of the Kolour crew’s new nightlife concept Sunn will be rocking Live RCA (Rama 9 Rd.) this Saturday, Jul 11, this time featuring a headliner direct from Berlin, Robosonic. They’re also promising new food choices, a new visual concept by Kor.Bor.Vor, plus lots of quality local DJs across three music zones. Tickets are B600, available now at www.amiando.com/SunnRobosonic. B800 limited tickets will be available at the door.

SAT Bang Bang Maroon 5 aren’t the only ones deserving of two Bangkok shows. One of the most successful K-pop groups of all time, Big Bang, will take over Impact Arena this Jul 11 (7pm) and Jul 12 (4pm) for Thai VIPs as part of their 2015 World Tour [MADE]. Tickets range from B1,500 to a whopping B8,500, available on Thaiticketmajor.

FRI Mark-down Market If you went to Zaap On Sale at Paragon last month and realized you couldn’t afford anything, Zaap/2 is sure to cheer you up this Jul 10-12. Taking over the Bangkok Convention Center (5/F, Central Ladprao. MRT Phahon Yothin), the market will showcase the same range of quality online brands, only this time they’re promising discounts of 50-90-percent on most items.

WED Snow Town After a successful world premiere in the US, fantasy opera The Snow Dragon is finally making its Bangkok debut this Jul 15-16 at Thailand Cultural Centre, under the creative tutelage of renowned Thai-American composer Somtow Sucharitkul and Opera Siam. Said to be the composer’s best production to date, the opera follows an abused young boy and a troubled counsellor into their imaginary world. Tickets are B500-2,000, available from Thaiticketmajor.

FRI Call of the Wild Opening this week on Jul 10, 6pm at Soy Sauce Factory (11/1 Charoen Krung Soi 24, 081-301-2669) is a new exhibition titled Second Nature, featuring the work of Chiang Mai-based artist Mauy, who uses the medium of street art to create images of wild animals in an emotive style similar to children's book illustrations. The exhibition will run through Aug 8.

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now GIGS

NIGHTLIFE opening sets by Ninegod, Skinny Mark and Zuper L. Jul 16, 9pm. Onyx, Soi Soonvijai, Rama 9 Rd. SUPERHERO "CHARITY PARTY"

TJR

SINGHA PUBCRAWL: GROOVY NIGHT IN BANGKOK

LE BAL DES POMPIERS: BASTILLE DAY AT MAGGIE'S

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 a performance by DJ Octo. Limited to 200 guests. B700 pre-sale tickets available at each participating venue. Jul 11, 7pm. Groove, Rama 1 Rd., 02-2645555. B900 (one free beer, Singha Pub Crawl T-shirt). BTS Siam/Chit Lom.

The bar's resident DJ Fred Canal, plus Alex Fischer and Kevin LazyKay turn up the music in celebration of Bastille Day 2015, plus special shows. Free French onion soup and 25 percent off bottles of Belvedere Vodka and Moet & Chandon all night. Jul 14, 9pm. Maggie Choo's, underground/F, Hotel Novotel Bangkok Fenix Silom, 320 Silom Rd., 091-772-2144. BTS Surasak.

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.

Braids

BRAINS: IDM, GLITCH HOP AND EXPERIMENTAL BEATS

Alternative, electronic-based beats by Thai actor-producer-DJ Jay Montonn Jira, the mastermind behind Samutprakarn Sound Records. Jul 24, 9pm.

Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02261-6661. B200. BTS Thong Lo.

Inspirative

Ebola

RETOX SESSIONS PRESENTS TJR

The DJ/producer, known for his collaboration with Pitbull for "Don't Stop the Party" makes his Bangkok debut, with

CONCERTS A brand new touring concert 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 The Whiffenpoofs

THE WHIFFENPOOFS @ SUKOSOL HOTELS

Yale University's prestigious acapella group, who have performed for the likes of President Obama and on Fox's Glee, perform two shows in Bangkok: Jul 17, 7:30pm at Rattanakosin Lounge at The Sukosol Bangkok (B500 with one free cocktail/B1,500 with one free cocktail and a pre-concert buffet dinner), Jul 18, 7:30pm at Opium Den at The Siam Hotel (B1,500++ with one hour of free-flow cocktails and canapes). Ticket reservations at www.sukosolhotels. com or www.thesiamhotel.com. 3/2 Khao Rd., Dusit, 02206-6999.

WHAT WOMEN WORTH

A colorful, girl-power concert featuring an all-women's mini orchestra, and popular Thai female powerhouses such as Parn Tanaporn, Tai Penpak, Tak Siriporn, Zani Nipaporn and Jeab Lalana. Part of the proceeds will go towards the One for Lives Foundation. Jul 18, 6pm. Bangkok Convention Center at CentralPlaza Ladprao, 5/F, Central Ladprao, 1695 Paholyothin Rd. B1,200-2,500 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Phahon Yothin.

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.

THE USED LIVE IN BANGKOK

The American rock band makes an epic debut in Bangkok after the cancellation of Silverlake Music Festival Pattaya back in 2014. There are only 900 tickets, available at Indy Pop Concerts, HOF The Mall Bangkapi, Gram Siam Paragon, Sick Chaisaws MRT Chatuchak, and Musicland, Indra Square.

Aug 5, 8pm. Hollywood Hall Ratchada, Ratchadaphisek Soi 8 (Ratchadaphisek). B1,500. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

Playground

PLAYGROUND...X SURROUND

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 081-930-3633.

When: Jul 10, 6pm JJ Green, 110/46 Lad Phrao Soi 18, 086-331-5657-8. 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 all sold out. Limited band T-shirts available for sale, designed by Sahred Toy. When: 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 dream-pop 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.

When: Jul 17, 8pm Moose Bangkok, 24 Ekkamai Soi 21, 02-108-9550. B500.

ECHOSMITH LIVE IN BANGKOK

Known for their hit single "Cool Kids," the up-and-coming indie pop group makes its debut in Bangkok in this concert organized by Feoh Performing Arts. They've also recently featured German DJ Zedd on a track from his latest album, titled "Illusion." Early bird tickets at B1,500, available thorugh Jul 15 at gixtix.com. Aug 7, 6pm. The Palladium Hall, Palladium Shopping Mall. B1,800.

JUSTICE (MUSIC) FOR ALL

The rocking venue promises a night of heavy metal by local bands, bringing the likes of Ebola, Macaroni, Quake and special cover act Project Metallica to the same stage. Contact 093-124-0434 for transfer details.

When: Jul 22, 8pm Parking Toys, 17/22 Ramindra Soi 14, 02-907-2228. B300.

SOUNDBOX: MUSIC TO BE HEARD

CLASSICAL

Bangkok Symphony Orchestra

30

TICF 2015

A FLUTE AND PIANO DUO RECITAL

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. B300-500 from Thaiticketmajor.

D&M Music Studio, in collaboration with the Siam Music Auditorium, presents a performance featuring the award-winning Spanish-Italian duo Elena Aguilar Gasulla (piano) and Francesco Mannis (flute), who'll be playing a program of Donizetti, Schumann, Mower, Ferran, Poulenc and Borne. Advance bookings at 081-681-8000. Jul 11, 7:30pm.

Siam Ratchada Auditorium, U/F, Fortune Town, New Ratchadapisek Rd., 02-245-7717.

B300-600.

CONCERT IN HONOR OF HRH CROWN PRINCE VAJIRALONGKORN

The Bangkok Symphony Orchestra performs a concert in celebration of HRH Crown Prince's birthday, featuring Thai vocalists Saovanit Navapan, Rudklao Amratisha, Suruj Tipakoraseni, Manit Thuvasethakul, Kornkan Sutthikoses and the Thai Youth Choir. Program includes HM the King's compositions, notable contemporary hits from films like of Catch Me If You Can, Titanic, Pearl Harbor, Les Miserables, Dream Girls, Chicago, Mulan and other musical tributes. Jul 11, 8pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-2623456. B300-1,500 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

BK Magazine Friday, July 10, 2015

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now LAST CHANCE 4th White Elephant Art Award

STAGE which launched last year to critical acclaim. A part of the Monsoon Theater program by B-Floor Theater and Democrazy Theatre Studio. More package deals available at democrazystudio.com. Through Jul 18, 8pm. Democrazy Theatre Studio, 1034/29-30 Soi Saphankhu, Rama 4, 089-126-7112, 081-441-5718. B490.

MRT Lumphini.

This Sunday, Jul 12, is your last chance to catch this exhibition on the ninth floor of the BACC, featuring surreal and realistic artworks by local artists under the theme "Our Beloved Princess," in celebration of HRH Princess Maha Chakri's birthday. Here, we take a look at some of this year's winning works.

The annual White Elephant Art Award is organized by Thai Beverage. Each year the winner receives the prestigious White Elephant Award, and B1 million prize money. This year's award went to two winners, Thitiprom Onpium and Santi Seedarach, presented on May 18 by HRH Princess Maha Chakri herself.

Hear The Wind Sing

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL QUIDAM LIVE IN BANGKOK 2015

The Apple Doesn't Fall Far From the Tree

Follow in Father's Foodsteps

The world's most famous modern 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.

HEAR THE WIND SING

Our Beloved

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

LAST CHANCE

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. Thong Lor Art Space, 58/14-15 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). B500. BTS Thong Lo. 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., 02-3813860.

B400. BTS Thong Lo. ICEBERG

A restaging of Ka-ge Teerawat Mulvilai's solo, movement-based production, addressing the controversial issue of oppression in society,

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 089-167-4039.

Jul 19-Aug 3, 4pm. B-Floor Theatre, Pridi Banomyong Institute, Soi Thonglor, Sukhumvit Rd., 089-167-4039.

B450. BTS Thong Lo. PETER PAN: FAITH, TRUST & PIXIE DUST

The annual play by the students of the Architecture Faculty of Chulalongkorn University presents a 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. Mahitaladhibesra Building, Chulalongkorn University. Phayathai Rd. B260-290. www.showbooking.com

Closing Exhibitions

My Princess

Call for Entries: Are you an aspiring artist yourself? Here are some prestigious art competitions coming up.

2015 UOB PAINTING OF THE YEAR COMPETITION

The annual UOB Painting competition aims to raise awareness and appreciation of Southeast Asian artists. One of the four country winners (from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand) will be selected for a one-month residency program at the Fukuoka Asian Art Museum.

LOSE

YIWARRA KUJU: THE CANNING STOCK ROUTE

This debut solo exhibition by Tewaporn Maionkeaw features contemporary oil paintings that reflect Thailand's state of social unrest in the South. Through Jul 11.

The Australian Embassy brings over reproductions of contemporary Aboriginal Art previously shown at the National Museum of Australia back in 2010, featuring 14 colorful artworks of traditional patterns by veteran and emerging Aboriginal artists. Through Jul 16.

Number One Gallery, Room B-15, The Silom Galleria, Silom Soi 19, 081-684-6577.

Submission Date: Sep 12-16 at Art Centre, Silpakorn University Prizes: B150,000-B750,000 More details at www.uobpoy.com KRUNG THAI ART AWARDS 2015

The art competition started last year aimed at promoting a diverse range of Thai art and culture under the concept of “Krung Thai Art.” All contemporary paintings, prints and sculptures are welcome.

Submission Date: Nov 11-15 at Krung Thai Art Gallery Prizes: B100,000-B300,000 More details at www.ktb.co.th Krung Thai Art Gallery, Krung Thai Bldg., Yaowarat Branch, Yaowarat Soi 23, 0-2222-0137.

5TH WHITE ELEPHANT ART AWARDS

The theme for the next competition is “Love and Relationship". Winning works will go on display from Mar 25-May 8, 2016, on the ninth floor of the BACC. Submission Date: Feb 19-20 at Bangkok Art and Culture Centre Prizes: B80,000-B1,000,000 More details at www.thaibev.com and www.bacc.or.th 939 Rama 1 Rd. BTS National Stadium.

Explore your favorite

Neighborhoods

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32

Thavibu Gallery, Room 433, 4/F, JTC Jewelry Trade Center, 919/1 Silom Rd., 02-266-5454.

WHY NOT

Do Yoga For Good Bangkok cat lovers can head over to yoga studio Yogatique Bangkok this Sunday, Jul 12, for a special yoga with cats experience. Held in collaboration with PAWS Foundation, Karma Yoga Class - Yoga & Cats will give you a chance to spend quality time with cute shelter cats while doing yoga for 90 minutes, from 10am-11:30am, with the aim of raising awareness for Bangkok’s homeless cat population. Those interested can also adopt.

Students can donate as much as they wish to join the class, open for yogis of all levels, and all proceeds will go towards the foundation. Not free this week? The studio will continue to host Sunday Karma classes at 10am, with a different foundation taking part every month.

PAWS stands for Pets and Animal Welfare Society, which provides spaying, neutering and veterinary health services for stray or community animals, adoption programs as well as responsible pet ownership education in Bangkok. For more information on what they do, see www.fb.com/pawsbangkok.

Yogatique, 116/8 Sukhumvit Soi 2, 02-662-0172. BTS Asok/MRT Sukhumvit

BK Magazine Friday, July 10, 2015

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now GAME TIME

Great Escapes by Arisa Wiwatsomwong

TALKS & WORKSHOPS MIME WORKSHOP: SPEAK WITH YOUR BODY

Missing Links

Escape Room

Escape Hunt

Breakaway

Looking for new places to hang with your gang that don’t involve trudging through the mall? Real-life escape games are trending globally, asking you and your friends to solve a series of brain-challenging puzzles and riddles in order to escape a specific scenario. The rules are usually pretty simple. Channel your inner Sherlock Holmes by using various clues to solve puzzles and find a way out of a locked room in under an hour. Note that every venue changes at least one game every 6-8 months, so if you’ve already tried all the games, you can visit again half a year later.

MISSING LINKS - ARTIST TALK BY STUDIO REVOLT

ARTIST TALK: PARALLEL WORLD JEWELLERY AND PHOTOGRAPH

Artists Maria Taniguchi (the Philippines) and Anida Ali (Cambodia) discuss their works, touching on colonial past and the history of war in the Southeast Asian region, as shown in the current two-part exhibition at the Art Center. Conducted in English, with brief Thai translations, to be held at the William Warren Library. Jul 11, 2pm. Jim Thompson House & Art Center, Jim Thompson House, Soi Kasem San 2, Rama 1 Rd., 02-2167368. Free. BTS National Stadium.

The craft studio holds a talk by award-winning Japanese jeweler Mari Ishikawa, whose creations have been showcased all over the world. She'll be discussing the idea of a parallel world as conveyed through her work. She also recently held an exhibition at Atta Gallery in Bangkok. Talk is in English. Jul 25, 4pm. Atelier Rudee, 70/3 Sukhumvit Rd. Free.

Ten classes of classic-style mime workshop for beginners, run by veteran instructor Paitoon Laisakul (who also taught the famed Babymime), all of which will cover the basic elements of mime. Classes run every Saturday and Sunday. Students must be over 18, and foreigners are also welcome. Bookings available at 095-924-4555.

Jul 11-Aug 9, 6pm. Thong Lor Art Space, 58/14-15 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). B6,000.

NICK DUNLOP WORKSHOPS

A five-day intensive photography workshop, run by award-winning photographers Nic Dunlop and Yvan Cohen, who will be teaching you how to research, shoot and edit a photo essay. Limited to 15 participants.

More details at www.photographer. asia. Jul 12-17, 10am. The Jam Factory, 41/1-41/2 Charoen Nakorn Rd., 02-861-0950.

MARKETS

ESCAPE HUNT EXPERIENCE

The venue: Open since 2013, this claims to be Southeast Asia's first escape room venue. Escape Hunt Experience now has branches around the world, including Phuket and Pattaya. Stay tuned for a new branch in Chiang Mai, too.

The rules: Up to five people per game. Each game lasts 60 minutes, except the outdoor game which lasts 90 minutes. You can ask the game master for a hint, but each one counts as an additional minute to your final game time.

The games: There are a total of three games on offer, two indoor and one outside, each of similar difficulty levels but requiring different skills. The two onsite games are Blackmail in the Bedroom (our pick) and Theft at the Art Gallery, while the one off-site game is Bangkok Poison Mystery No. 1, which is played in the nearby mall Terminal 21.

The price: Walk-ins have a surcharge of 10 percent, so book online for discounts.

Bring more people for cheaper prices, too: 2 players (B900 per person), 3 players (B800 per person), 4 players (B700 per person) and the maximum 5 players (B600 per person).

B2 Level, 399 Interchange Building, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-611-2828. Open daily 10am-8.30pm (last game at 7pm). BTS Asoke. bangkok.escapehunt.com

ESCAPE ROOM

The venue: Opened in April, this venue takes its inspiration from a Japanese online escape game, where you must work your way out of anything from a haunted hotel room to a Pharaoh's tomb or a slaughterhouse. Having started in Malaysia, Escape Room International now has 16 branches around the world.

The rules: You’re allowed 2-6 players per game and can ask for a clue twice over the course of your 45-minute game.

The games: The six rooms are rated from 3-5 stars in terms of difficulty and each has a different theme and story. These range from the 3-star Slaughter House and Mummy Returns, and 4-star Prison Break and Mysterious Room to the 5-star Overlook Hotel: Room 13 (our favorite—don’t the let the horror soundtrack get to you!) and Crime Scene. They also have a weekly challenge: the group who escapes a room in the least time wins a gift.

The price: B550 per person

PANKAN #6

THE GREAT OUTDOOR MARKET

Social enterprise Pankan Society holds a secondhand popup 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. Jul 11-13, 10:30pm. Crystal Design Center, 1420/1 Praditmanoontham Rd., 02-101-5999. Free.

The popular outdoor pop-up market returns, this time taking refuge at a high-rise location in Ekkamai, promising a panoramic view of Bangkok. Expect eateries and design shops in the creative parking lot spaces, plus live performances on the rooftop by Yellow Fang, DJ Ekko, Aey The Voice, Gym & Swim, Fwends and many more. Jul 17-19, 4pm. Bangkok Business Centre Building, Sukhumvit Soi 63 (Ekkamai). Free. BTS Ekkamai.

BE GOOD Thai Volunteer Service

The venue: Founded by Thai Jewelry Designer Duangdee Hongrattanakorn and her partner Taky Lau in 2013, this place is known for its horror-themed games.

The rules: Up to seven people per room with a 45-minute time limit.

The games: There are four different challenging storylines spanning a range of difficulty levels; from finding a missing friend in Mix & Match (for beginners) to fleeing jail in Prison Break (intermediate). The advanced Gong Goi game is particularly scary, while you should also keep an eye on the new Ghost Ship game.

The price: It depends on the number of players in each game: B419 each for 1-3 players, B339 each for 4-5 players and B319 each for more than 5 players.

Want an alternative way to do good this Khao Phansa (Buddhist Lent) Day (Jul 31-Aug 1)? Take this opportunity to head south to Phetchaburi province to donate rice and essentials to less fortunate children of the Karen community.

During term time, these Karen children move into the Disadvantaged Center to be closer to their nearest school.

Food supplies often run low. You can join other volunteers on a trip to Khaeng Krachan District, to meet the children at the center, learn about the local community, explore the village and donate rice and other daily essentials.

The B1,550 fee covers transportation, four meals and donation items for the center. Just pack a sleeping bag, toiletries and any other necessities for the overnight stay. Limited to 38 participants. Sign up now at volunteerservice@ gmail.com with your full name, contact details and occupation. More information at 095-997-7724 or 02-691-0437.

The meeting point is the Thai Volunteer Service Building on Ratchadapisek Road at 7:30am.

The Thai Volunteer Service Foundation organizes charity activities and volunteering opportunities every week, providing a channel for the public to take part in social activities for disadvantaged groups and communities around Thailand outside office hours. They’ve also got exchange programs, human rights-related projects, and youth-empowerment projects running throughout the year.

2/F, Lido Multiplex, Rama 1 Rd., 085-192-4007. Open Mon-Fri, Sun 1pm-9pm, Sat 11am-9pm.

BTS Siam. www.breakaway.co.th

Thai Volunteer Service Building, 409 Soi Rohitsuk, Ratchadaphisek Rd. MRT Huay Kwang. www.thaivolunteer.org/2015

7/F, Zone SF Cinema City, MBK Centre, Phayathai Rd, 02-611-4994. Open daily 10am-10pm.

BTS National Stadium. www.escaperoom.international/thailand

BREAKAWAY

BK Magazine Friday, July 10, 2015

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7/6/15 7:00 PM

now FILM Opening

FREEWILL ASTROLOGY CANCER (Jun 21-Jul 22): When novelist John Irving begins a new book, his first task is to write the last line of the last page. Then he writes the second-to-last line. He continues to work backwards for a while until he has a clear understanding of the way his story will end. Right now, Cancerian, I invite you to borrow Irving’s approach. Visualize in detail the blossoms that will eventually come from the seeds you’re planting. Create a vivid picture of the life you will be living when your plans have fully ripened.

Magic Mike XXL (USA)

F. Hilaire (Thai)

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

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

Danny Collins (USA) Drama. An aging rock star (Al Pacino) decides to turn around his failed 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

Y/Our Music (Thai) Documentary. A fascinating look at Thailand’s diverse music scene that uses the country’s various styles of music, through the stories of nine musicians, as a metaphor for the divide between urban and rural life. Limited at Lido Cinema, Siam Square. Jul 9

Upcoming

Ant-Man (USA)

Dark Places (USA)

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

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

How To Win At Checkers (Every Time) (Thai) Drama. Based on the book Sightseeing by Rattawut Lapcharoensap. Two brothers living in Thailand must learn to accept one another’s differences on the verge of the military draft day. Jul 16

Free Screenings Alliance Francaise

Jam

Movies are subtitled in English and screened at 7pm. Jul 15. La Jalousie: A drama by Philippe Garrel about a man trying to protect his loving daughter and his theater career after the collapse of his marriage. 179 Witthayu (Wireless) Rd., 02670-4200.

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 6pm-midnight.

Goethe Institut: German Film Series 2015

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.

Movies are in German and subtitled in English.

July 12. The Strange Little Cat (2013): A brother and sister visit their parents for a dinner with their strange relatives. 6pm, 2F, Bangkok Art and Culture Centre. For more information or contact 02-1088200, info@bangkok.goethe.org

The Friese-Greene Club

Japan Foundation Movies are subtitled in Thai and screened at 6:30pm. Theme for July is Spirit. July 17. Uneasy Encounters (1994): A collection of five short films involving strange encounters between five strangers. 10/F, Sermmit Tower, 159 Soi Asoke, 02-2608560. www.jfbkk.or.th

SPECIAL SCREENING EU Film Festival 2015

‘71

GirlHood

This traveling film festival kicks off in Bangkok at SF World Cinema, CentralWorld, this Jul 10-19, featuring 16 feature films and two short films produced by 14 EU Member States. All films will be screened in their original languages with Thai and English subtitles. Tickets are B120, available at the Box Office or online at www.sfcinemacity.com. Highlights include: Girlhood (France), Tresspassing Bergman (Sweden), Phoenix (Germany), Mr. Humblot (Luxembourg), Melody (Belgium), Beautiful Youth (Spain), The Hour of the Lynx (Denmark) and ’71 (United Kingdom). The festival will also move over to Chiang Mai (Jul 24-Aug 2) and Khon Kaen (Aug 7-9).

LEO (Jul 23-Aug 22): You have cosmic permission to lose your train of thought, forget about what was so seriously important, and be weirdly amused by interesting nonsense. If stress-addicts nag you to be more responsible, tell them that your astrologer has authorized you to ignore the pressing issues and wander off in the direction of nowhere in particular. Does that sound like a good plan? It does to me. For now, it’s your sovereign right to be a wise and innocent explorer with nothing much to do but wonder and daydream and play around.

VIRGO (Aug 23-Sep 22): Even the most provocative meme cannot literally cause the Internet to collapse from overuse. It’s true that photos of Kim Kardashian’s oiled-up butt spawned a biblical flood of agitated responses on social media. So did the cover shot of Caitlyn Jenner in Vanity Fair and the season-five finale of the TV show Game of Thrones. But none of these starbursts unleashed so much traffic that the Web was in danger of crashing. It’s too vast and robust for that. Or is it? I’m wondering if Virgos’ current propensities for high adventure and rollicking melodrama could generate phenomena that would actually, not just metaphorically, break the Internet. To be safe, I suggest you enjoy yourself to the utmost, but not more than the utmost.

LIBRA (Sep 23-Oct 22): The coming weeks will be a favorable time for you to acquire a new title. It’s quite possible that a person in authority will confer it upon you, and that it will signify a raise in status, an increase in responsibility, or an expansion of your clout. If for some reason this upgrade doesn’t occur naturally, take matters into your own hands.

Tell people to refer to you as “Your Excellency” or “Your Majesty.” Wear a name tag that says “Deputy Director of Puzzle-Solving” or “Executive Vice-President of Fanatical Balance and Insane Poise.” For once in your life, it’s OK to risk becoming a legend in your own mind. P.S. It wouldn’t be a bad time to demand a promotion—diplomatically, of course, in the Libran spirit.

SCORPIO (Oct 23-Nov 21): Between now and Jul 22, your mantra and battle cry is “serendipity.” To make sure you are clear about its meaning, meditate on these definitions: a knack for uncovering surprising benefits by accident; a talent for stumbling upon timely help or useful resources without searching for them. Got that? Now some clues to help you make the most of your lucky breaks: 1.

Be curious and receptive. 2. Expect the unexpected.

Vow to thrive on surprises. 3. Your desires are more likely to come true if you are unattached to them coming true. But you should formulate those desires clearly and precisely.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22-Dec 21): On behalf of the Strange Angels in Charge of Uproarious Beauty and Tricky Truths, I am pleased to present you with the award for Most Catalytic Fun-Seeker and Intriguing Game-Changer of the Zodiac. What are your specific superpowers? You’re capable of transforming rot into splendor. You have a knack for discovering secrets that have been hidden. I also suspect that your presence can generate magic laughter and wake everyone up to the interesting truths they’ve been ignoring.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 19): “Who is that can tell me who I am?” asks King Lear in the Shakespeare play named after him. It’s a painful moment. The old boy is confused when he speaks those words.

But I’d like to borrow his question and transplant it into a very different context: your life right now.

I think that you can engender inspirational results by making it an ongoing meditation. There are people in a good position to provide you with useful insights into who you are.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20-Feb 18): What’s hard but important for you to do? What are the challenging tasks you know you should undertake because they would improve your life? The coming days will be a favorable time to make headway on these labors.

You will have more power than usual to move what has been nearly impossible to move. You may be surprised by your ability to change situations that have resisted and outfoxed you in the past. I’m not saying this will be smooth and easy. But I bet you will be able to summon unprecedented amounts of willpower and perseverance.

PISCES (Feb 19-Mar 20): Franz Kafka produced three novels, a play, four short fiction collections and many other stories. And yet some of his fellow writers thought he was uncomfortable in expressing himself. Bertolt Brecht said Kafka seemed perpetually afraid, as if he were being monitored by the cops for illicit thoughts. Milena Jesenska observed that Kafka often wrote like he was sitting naked in the midst of fully-clothed people. Your assignment in the coming weeks is to shed such limitations from your own creative expression. What would you need to do to free your imagination? To get started, visualize five pleasurable scenarios in which you feel joyful, autonomous, generous, and expansive.

ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 19): How can you fulfill your potential as an Aries? What strategies will help you become the best Aries you can possibly be? Now is an excellent time to meditate on these riddles. One of my Aries readers, Mickki Langston, has some stellar tips: 1. One of your greatest assets is your relentless sense of purpose. Treasure it. Draw on it daily.

2. Love what you love with pure conviction, because there is no escaping it. 3. Other people may believe in you, but only sometimes. That’s why you should unfailingly believe in yourself. 4. It’s your duty and your destiny to continually learn more about how to be a leader. 5. Don’t be confused by other people’s confusion. 6. Your best friend is the Fool, who will guide you to laughter and humility when you need it most, which is pretty much all of the time.

TAURUS (Apr 20-May 20): While making a long trek through the desert on a camel, British author Somerset Maugham passed the time by reading Marcel Proust’s novel In Search of Lost Time. After finishing each page, Maugham ripped it out and cast it away. The book weighed less and less as his journey progressed. I suggest that you consider a similar approach in the coming weeks, Taurus. As you weave your way toward your next destination, shed the accessories and attachments you don’t absolutely need.

GEMINI (May 21-Jun 20): “I have gathered about me people who understand how to translate fear into possibility,” writes John Keene in his story “Acrobatique.” I’d love to see you do the same, Gemini. Now is a favorable time to put your worries and trepidations to work for you. You have an extraordinary capacity to use your doubt and dread to generate opportunities. Even if you go it alone, you can accomplish minor miracles, but why not dare to think even bigger? Team up with brave and resourceful allies who want to translate fear into possibility, too.

For the full list of films and screening programs, see on.fb.me/1MYT2Sz.

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last word

Dujdao Vadhanapakorn Movement therapist and theater performer Dujdao Vadhanapalorn, 34, is one of the Thailand’s most highly regarded experimental stage performers. The International Association of Theatre Critics Thailand awarded her performance in 2013’s The Maids with Best Performance by a Female Artist, which was followed in the same year with Best Movement-Based Performance for her role in (In)sensitivity. As the director of B-Floor Theatre prepares for her new show, Secret Keeper at the BACC (Aug 5-23), she discusses her love for therapeutic communication and why Thailand needs to step outside the box.

When you’re at a certain age you feel cocksure about your own beliefs and see the world through a keyhole defined by what you claim to be your expertise. It’s hard for this kind of person to open up their mind to learn something new, or apologize, because when they do, they feel unstable.

Old habits die hard. I have come to terms with the attitude of some of the older nurses who come to learn therapeutic communication in my class.

Empathic communication is subtle. Sometimes the receiver won’t even notice that they’re being reassured that everything is going to be OK. You need more than words.

My family is very modern. When everyone was talking about Gen X, my dad raised me to be Gen Y. He taught me to be fearless and to

express my beliefs to my elders—just because they are older doesn’t mean they’re always right.

My dad was away a lot. The young Dujdao was left to her own devices.

She played with her toys, watched movies. Sometimes I find myself thinking that my childhood wasn’t fulfilling; as if I was abused by being neglected.

So what did I do? I began to dance.

I entertained myself with dance moves. Dancing became my whole world. It’s something I knew I could effortlessly thrive at.

My mom was afraid that my dolls would get old and faded, so she covered them with plastic. I grew up to hate plastic and developed an urge to touch everything non-plastic like carpets or upholstered furniture.

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I’m all about sensation. In my new show, Secret Keeper, you’ll have to use your heart instead of your brain to comprehend. Opening up your senses to what you see and feel from the performers is the only way to understand what I want to communicate.

I love experimental theater so much. I want the outcome to look effortless.

Body language is the most honest language in the world because it’s something you can’t hide.

It’s always good to begin something new. While doing my job may have been easier had someone else already introduced Thai audiences to experimental theater, that wasn’t the case.

Body language is the most honest language in the world

I wouldn’t write a plot.

My creative process is chaotic. I can’t work out a storyline. Everything is scattered. But I have the ability to come up with something deeper on the level of sensation.

Thai millennials must make a stand. It doesn’t matter what your upbringing was like. The past is the past.

Thailand is ready for new ideas and the world is now so much more connected. We too can enjoy the privileges of Gen Yers in other countries if we dare to break tradition.

Thailand is more or less 10 years behind Western countries. The big problem is that Thai companies are mostly run by Gen X. Some of the biggest companies in the US are now headed by Gen Y, and that has resulted in a big change in the dynamics of industry.

Young Thais are not ready for intellectual combat, so they’re willing to just adapt into a conservative office.

Interview by Sam Nathapong Secret Keeper will be performed at Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre (BACC) on Aug 5-23. WedSun, 7pm. For reservations, call 089-167-4039.

THAI-LANGUAGE EDITOR You know us from BK Magazine. But we’re making more and more awesome content in Thai, too. To meet our expanding Thai-language digital content production needs, we need someone who can: -

Bust out fun, crisp copy in Thai.

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Send us your writing samples (or portfolio), cover letter and resume with a salary expectation at gglachant@asia-city.co.th.

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