BK Magazine 628 February 19, 2016

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Like a wrecking ball

BK MAGAZINE NO. 628 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. www.bkmagazine.com

disappearing communities The neighborhoods facing certain death in the name of urban development.

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page 3 06 cover story

There Goes the Neighborhood

Small talk

04 upfront

10 escapes

Grand Designs

Jungle Tripping 13 shopping

14 shopping

Best Foot Forward

Bags of Style

18 blends

19 bites

Strong Tonic

Burger Briefing

Who's in charge?

Managing Director Andrew Hiransomboon Editor in Chief / Product Director Grégoire Glachant Managing Editor Oliver Irvine Deputy Editor Carl Dixon Features Associate Monruedee Jansuttipan Senior Staff Writers Vasachol Quadri, Lily Kittisrikangwan Staff Writers Natcha Sanguankiattichai, Bonnie Sananvatananont Branded Content Associate Sureepak Janyapat Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Junior Writer Kankanid Mitrpakdee Production Supervisor Komkrit Klinkaeo Art Director Dechart Sangsawang Senior Graphic Designer Panita Thiraphapong Graphic Designers Chantich Kongchanmitkul, Peeraya Sirathanisa Junior Graphic Designers Wariya Whangwaewklang, Parida Ritthiron

Where to find us!

The Asia City Media Group

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 Junior Sales Associates Kittiya Darachai

Administrator Yaovaluck Srisermsri Accountant Manita Bangmoung Contributor Kathy MacLeod Intern Joseph Lam Cover Monruedee Jansuttipan

Regional Marketing Manager Pavida Chitprasertsuk IT Manager Takrit Jitjaroen Distribution Manager Suda Angsuputiphant Finance Manager Supaporn Bangmoung Assistant Finance Manager Anchalee Limkhamduang Senior Accountant Maneeya Kanthongdang

Bangkok Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. 9/F, Sathorn Nakorn Tower 100 North Sathorn Rd., Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Tel: 02-624-9696 Fax: 02-237-5656 Email: bkmagazine@asia-city.co.th

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

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

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, February 19, 2016

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upfront HOT OR NOT

Hot: Gin bars

Not: Whiskey bars

Gin? Good! Tonic? Good! Massive balloon-shaped glasses? Good! Which is why we’re well into Bangkok’s new trend for bars specializing in the delicious, juniper-y goodness of quality gin. What’s more, these places are cool, fun, and attract people of both sexes. Not things we could say about the last wave of wannabe gentleman’s club whiskey bars tucked in hotel basements. See page 18.

INTERVIEW

Hot: Celibacy

Not: Truth

Bangkok University recently polled some students and came to the conclusion that 61 percent of them think they can keep it in their pants till after marriage.

What’s more, it reckons only 3.7 percent of students expected to have sex this Valentine’s Day. All this makes us think one of two things: a) Students are liars; b) We’re really, really glad we didn’t go to Bangkok University.

Hot: Rural development

Not: Urban development

You probably noticed from this magazine’s front cover that we’ve gone all right-on, anti-development this week. Who needs more community malls and condos when we could be preserving the things in Bangkok money can’t buy (see page 6)? Oh! But have you been to Khao Yai recently? Finally the place has a coffee shop worth leaving Sukhumvit for. And that new hotel by Kirimaya—totes amaze (see page 10).

Hot: Launching appeals Not: Accepting defeat Was Worawi ever going to roll over and accept that someone else now has the top spot in football while he’s still banned from the sport? Of course not. That’s just not how we fly in this country. Not in our sport. Not in our politics. Not in our monkhood. With an appeal already launched against Somyot’s landslide victory as FAT chief, we’re happy to see the disgraced former top dog sticking with the spirit of tradition.

THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

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First, a storm of rumors circulated that the Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC) is under threat of closure, then the junta annulled the creative economy act. Following months of silence, TCDC has finally announced its move to Charoenkrung Road’s Central Post Office building will take effect early next year. Here, BK talks to Apisit Laistrooglai, Vice President of Office of Knowledge Management and Development (OKMD) and Director General of TDCD, about what the move will mean for the organization and Bangkok’s riverside.

When do you hope to be operating from your new premises?

The original plan was to move by the end of this year. But the building is under the administration of Thailand Post, which means a lot of paperwork since the building itself belongs to the Treasury Department. It’s all very complicated, but we hope to be open at our new spot by February next year.

What will be new when you finally open?

We already have a master plan that we don’t want to just move there but actually form a community. We aim to make Charoenkrung Road a creative district, and are working with groups of creatives in the area, especially galleries. Our space will not just be for people in the design industry; it’ll be for everyone involved with the creative economy: filmmakers, animators, SMEs and new start-ups. We see these people as cultural assets with the power to create a huge impact on our city. We’ve designed the space so that users can share it, hold talks,

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meetings, workshops or whatever they want. There will also be a design lab with tools like 3D printing, and a digital platform that lets people access TCDC remotely.

How will the architecture differ from before?

We feel that our old space was not open enough. We want the new space to be more inviting and energetic. We decided to work with the Department of Architecture, led by leading Thai architects Amata Luphaiboon and Twitee Vajrabhaya Teparkum, because we loved how their concept integrated a contemporary TCDC with the 80-year-old building.

Their core traffic design is about circulating people from the old building and into the new space. We also plan to make it easily accessible by the river so people can connect from BTS Saphan Taksin.

Now that the government has killed the creative economy act, how does the affect your work with OKMD?

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Honestly, I don’t know about the future of OKMD yet. Now we’re working on the 2016 budget while next year is still unclear. We’ll continue to do our best because we know that we’re doing the right thing for the country. We all know that Thailand is stuck in the middle, between a developing and developed nation. We can’t rely on agriculture, we can’t rely on manufacturing—our wages are higher and resources too expensive. So we need innovation if we are to grow.

What other projects is TCDC is working on now?

We’re changing our direction to work more on policy level with giant government sectors to drive things forward. We’re also working on the opening of the new TCDC in Khon Kaen and Hat Yai in Songkla along with trying to organize Bangkok Design Week to alternate with Chiang Mai Design Week, which we host twice a year.

Our ultimate aim is to make Bangkok a design capital by 2021. Interview by Monruedee Jansuttipan

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by Kathy MacLeod kathymacleod.blogspot.com

BK Magazine Friday, February 19, 2016

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cover story Disappearing Communities

Inner Bangkok is going through big changes. New public transport routes and rapid property development means that the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is having to reorganize traditional neighborhood boundaries. Here, Bangkok visits the communities at threat and speaks to residents about their fears for the future. By Monruedee Jansuttipan

BK Asks

Suan Luang-Samyan Suanluang-Samyan is famous for being one of the busiest mixed-business areas in the city—the go-to place for everything from sporting goods to street food and siang gong (old mechanical parts). The Chulalongkorn University Property Management Office has slowly been revamping the area since as far back as the early 2000s, including the relocation of the 50-year-old Sam Yan market. Now, almost all the old tenants have been cleared out, but those remaining must relocate their businesses, some of which are 40 years old, before the end of this year.

Phanom Klam-ngern, 34, mechanic “I have worked here since 1992. My boss has moved his shop three times due to the eviction.

The rent keeps going up and no one can afford to pay but still none of the shops want to move out of this district as customers always come here. But I think they will finally give up. Some might close their business while I think I am going to find a new location. But from a development perspective, I feel these old businesses can actually create more money than new businesses like the community mall [I’m Park]. How much do students pay for cups of coffee compared to people who come here every day to buy machines?"

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Kanoknan Prapapan, 53, pork b u tc h e r at Sam Yan Market

Sombat Chirasatitworakul, 63, Sombat Kanamuji bike shop

Worrawit Charanamsirikul, 66, Wattanayon machinery shop

“The new market isn’t as good as the old one, which customers could access so much more easily from Rama 4 Road. Most people don’t even know there is a new market here. I was even in debt for the first two years I moved here.

Now my contract at the new market will end this year. The expenses here are too much, and I don’t know how much the rent will go up to—it keeps getting higher every year.”

“The sense of community here has vanished. It’s like a ghost town now! My neighbors have moved out as they don’t want to pay the high rent imposed by Chula, which still keeps going up yearly. I have to pay B80,000 a month now. Most of my customers live in town so I don’t want to move my warehouse at Lad Phrao, but I can’t find any other place. I don’t feel like what Chula is doing makes good business sense. Just look at I’m Park. It’s dead there. The vendors are not doing good business at all. I stepped inside twice with my customers and nothing attracted me.”

“I’ve known this time would come for 20 years. Our business is branded as 'poisonous,' spreading oil around the area. I understand the need for Chula to develop the area because why do they need to get low-paid rental from two-story shop-houses like this? The neighborhood is so quiet now. We plan to move to a new siang gong at Kingkaew on Bangna-Trad Road.”

Niramon Kulsrisombat Director of Urban Design and Development Center

What do you make of Chula’s development plan?

I was a Chula kid myself and we’re pretty fed up with chains. Seeing spaces like Suan Luang and Samyan get developed into spaces with the same chains as every other mall is pretty sad. We shouldn’t think of development as being as easy as erasing one thing and replacing it with another. Chula is in the city center and has huge potential to create very good property. It has a vast space and the capacity to do great things. It should show some kind of masterplan that benefits the kids of this city. Right now if students want to read, for example, they have the choice of going to the crowded library or spending B90 on a coffee to sit in a 24-hour cafe."

BK Magazine Friday, February 19, 2015

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cover story Bernd Thaller

BK Asks

Woeng Nakhon Kasem, Yaowarat Road Long famous as a business center for hardware, machinery and kitchen supplies, Woeng Nakhon Kasem also has a special place in the hearts of Bangkok musicians as the go spot to buy all kinds of instruments.

But the land on which this community sits was recently sold to property giant TCC Group for B4.5 billion. This means that trade at this century-old hub of commerce will cease by the middle of this year.

Nuttawut Usavagovitwong Chairman of Association of Siamese Architects’ Community Architect Network Committee (ASA CAN)

What do you think of the BMA’s approach to urban planning?

Puangpet Weerathanapanitch,70, Ngao Huad Yu

Thawatchai Assavakongkiat , 64, Bae Ngiab Tai

“I’ve sold kitchenware here for three generations, but now I have to move out within six months. I don’t want to but we can’t do anything. My new place is so far from the city center, in the Phutthamonthon area near Nakhon Pathom, that I’m worried about losing a lot of customers. The city is so expensive, it’s hard to find a cheap place to move.”

“We have been here since my father started selling motors and kitchen appliances when I was young. Now we have six months left to move out and still can’t find anywhere to go. We tried looking for somewhere around Yaowarat or Bangkae but it’s all expensive. We’re going to lose our business.”

Sutthinant Asavasopon, 2 8 , Yo n g Seng Musical

Opas Anantapanich, 69, Jiew Hua Huad

“We have fought for 4-5 years to stay at this place. I heard that they will develop the area into a retail project like Asiatique but with a Chinese theme since it’s near Chinatown.

Many of the vendors already can’t live here as the new owner has raised the rent so much. But now we’ve accepted the reality. I will relocate my shop to the Thonburi side of the river, on Arun Amarin Road.”

“This area used to be the center of trade in Bangkok. Everyone from around the country came here to buy everything.

Now it will just be a part of history. I already have a backup plan to move to the Rama II area but I would rather stay here as long as I can.”

A lot of the new riverside developments—Tha Maharaj, Yodpiman Riverwalk—have tried to tap into a kind of old heritage vibe. How do you feel about that?

It makes Bangkok like a theme park.

Asiatique and Icon Siam act as though they are providing public space for the community, but they're actually privately-owned and close at a certain time. Property development is created by marketing plans; community is created by people, language, faith and culture.

Pak Klong Talad and Saphan Phut

What's your definition of community?

After the eviction of street vendors at Klong Tom, Tha Phrachan and Saphan Lek, the BMA is now gearing up to clear more market traders from areas including Saphan Phut and Pak Klong Talat, starting this month.

Under UNESCO’s rules, it’s the combination of people who live there and the culture, language, food and social rules which they create. When you build a new development and replace people’s favorite old coffee shops with new chain cafes, then the culture is gone.

Supreeya Onthong, 39, shoe vendor at Saphan Phut

Orawan Issarasichai, 3 2, T- s h i r t vendor at Saphan Phut

“ I ’ m d eva stated at being evicted. The BMA say they want to organize the space and give it back to the people. We open the market from 7pm-midnight at a time when no one would walk here if there wasn’t business. They complained about the traffic problem and the vendors have taken it upon themselves to keep the footpath more organized. I hope the BMA will rethink their plan.”

“My dad has worked here for 21 years since the BMA actually moved us here. But now they say we’re causing bad traffic and disturbing pedestrians. We sell at night! It’s deserted here after sunset.

It’s really dark and no one would even walk here if there wasn’t a market.

This is one of the top 10 tourist attractions in Bangkok! I cannot understand why the BMA wants a lively business district and tourist attraction to disappear."

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Bangkok’s urban planning isn’t practical at all. It’s just a rough concept telling each area what they can and can’t build. It’s ridiculous that our city planning is managed by district staff who don’t see the whole picture of the area. People have no power to protect their neighbourhood. How come people living on a metropolitan scale of 6-7 million people like Bangkok have no right to manage their space? The BMA and government are too big and slow to deal with urban issues this complicated. They must let people be a part of city planning.

Nutdara Sriwichai, 38, f lower vendor at Pa k K l o n g Talad “I have no plan B at all. My mom has been selling here for 40 years. The BMA told us to move to the nearby Kaset Thai Market, but the market has asked us to pay B300,000 for a two-year contract to get the spot. Where can I find that money? They say we cause bad traffic because people park their cars on the street. But in fact, whose responsibility is it to clear those cars from parking on the road?”

Amorn, 34, a Laotian cart pusher at Pa k K l o n g Talad “I don’t know what I will do if they clear all the vendors here. I’ve worked many jobs and love the set-up here because I get cash daily. I hope things turn out alright.”

What do you think of the plan to reorganize the Old Town’s markets?

You have to consider economic issues and the character of the city.

Administrators must be careful about changing these things. There’s nothing wrong with change but it has to be well planned. Busy markets like Pak Klong Talad selling flowers and food create a sustainable economy. If you get rid of it, will you destroy the neighborhood’s economy and see the community decline? That’s the question we must ask.

BK Magazine Friday, February 19, 2015

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ESCAPE ROUTES

By Monruedee Jansuttipan and Shi Min Xie

CHIANG MAI

The New Indigo The Core Hotel (053-218-163/4, 086-363-2105, www.fb.com/thecorehotelchiangmai) takes much of its inspiration from local craft work, specifically indigo tie-dye. Settled on Huay Kaew Road, on the way to Chiang Mai Zoo and Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, the hotel’s white, geometric cut-out facade hides a cozy resort-like interior of wood and white that’s complemented by splashes of indigo and dangling ferns. The 56 rooms range from deluxe (B2,400) and triple (B3,000) up to family-size (B5,000), with on-site facilities including a fitness center and pool. There’s also free bike rental. The highlight may well be the rooftop restaurant where you can take in the stunning views of Doi Suthep over breakfast and dinner. The food is mainly Thai central favorites with some Chiang Mai specialties like pork crackling with green chili relish.

PHUKET

Perfect Imperfection Kamala Beach on Phuket’s west coast just welcomed the sleek Wabi Sabi Boutique Hotel Kamala Phuket (www.fb.com/wabisabiphuket). Located a two-minute walk from the beach, the hotel’s name is taken from the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, or the beauty in imperfection. The five-story, all-suite hotel consists of 38 rooms ranging from 50-110 sq meters. The second phase of development will also see a wellness spa added to the rooftop offering programs such as tai chi, yoga and detox treatments. They will also offer in-room beauty and health treatments, too. Opening rates start at B2,360 for the grand deluxe suite pool villa to B8,555 for the family premier suite.

SINGAPORE

Design City Singapore Design Week (www.designsingapore.org) returns for a third year this Mar 8-20. Organized by the Design Singapore Council (www.fb.com/designsingaporecouncil), there will be exhibitions, conferences and workshops to get your creative juices flowing.

So far, what’s confirmed is the President’s Design Award 10th Anniversary Exhibition (Mar 8), featuring 125 recipients (who have been awarded Designer of the Year and Design of the Year for their products) from 2006 to 2015. There will also be Design Trails (Mar 1920), which will lead people into Jalan Besar, Geylang and Joo Chiat, giving them a behindthe-scenes look at designers woking. The event’s highlight is probably SingaPlural 2016 (Mar 9-17), which will be held at 99 Beach Road under theme “Senses–The Art and Science of Experiences” and show the best work that embodies all the five senses.

AIRLINES

North or South?

AirAsia (www.airasia.com) has finally announced flights between Bangkok and Laos’ UNESCO world heritage city of Luang Prabang, starting this Mar 24. The 1-hour-20-minute flights depart daily from Bangkok at 2:10pm and Luang Prabang at 4:45pm. Though the advertised rate of B990 is a pretty rare commodity, we were able to find flights out of Bangkok from B1,200 with the return leg from as low as, wait for it... B700. In more flight news, Qantas (www.qantas.com) has announced deals on its popular routes from Bangkok to Brisbane and Melbourne at B17,580 and Sydney at B19,580. Return flights to New Zealand are also being advertised at B25,465 for Auckland and B25,465 for Wellington.

See the full list and details at goo.gl/AcZ7WF.

Download our free guide to the best new openings in Phuket, Chiang Mai, Krabi, Samui and more. bit.ly/wherehotspots2015

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

BK Magazine Friday, February 19, 2016

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escapes WHAT TO DO

KHAO YAI

The High Life Khao Yai has never been so happening, and is now home to some of Thailand’s most stunning new hotels and designer cafes. By BK staff

CRAFT WORKSHOPS

Still making plans for the Makha Bucha Day long weekend? Khao Yai National Park is gearing up for Khao Yai Dee Jang Craft, a nature-slash-craft event. The twoday event (Feb 20-21) will include workshops focused on natural postcard painting, dream catcher and mask making, as well as mini exhibition showcasing wildlife and forest photography and leaves from the jungle. The workshops are open to everyone, running from noon-4pm at the visitor center both days. There will be a mini-workshop-plus-talk at 5:30pm on Feb 20 from Patarapol Maneeorn, considered Thailand’s preeminent wildlife veterinarian (conducted in Thai). All activities are free, but you’ll still need to pay a park entrance fee of B40 for Thais and B400 for foreigners.

Get event updates at www.fb.com/baimaigroup.

Nhapha Khao Yai Resort

Nhapha Khao Yai Resort

Set on land that used to be a quarry, this resort is designed to blend with the craggy surrounds and comes with two room types: the hilltop 90-sq-meter deluxe Chom Hin Pha (from B12,000) and the hill-side 50-sq-meter Ping Hin Pha (from B8,000), which combines floor-to-ceiling windows with marble-stone walls. As it’s owned by Thavorn Ko-Udomvit, a renowned lecturer at Silpakorn University and the guy behind Ardel Gallery of Modern Art, the hotel is full of art pieces from leading local and international artists such as ceramiist Nino Sarabutra and sculptor/photographer Wasinburee Supanichvoraparch, along with Japanese printmakers Tetsuya Noda and Kansuke Morioka. There’s also a red pool on-site.

For more art, head to the nearby Khao Yai Art Museum (www.khaoyaiartmuseum.com), which is just a five-minute drive away.

Atta Lakeside Resort

The people behind Kirimaya Golf Resort & Spa (complete with stunning Jack Nicklaus-designed 18-hole championship golf course) just unveiled a sister resort. Perched by a lake, in the foothills of Khao Yai National Park, Atta Lakeside Resort (www.kirimaya. com/resorts/atta) is home to 243 rooms spread across nine low-rise buildings. It flaunts modern-style decor, in soft brown hues to complement the leafy surroundings, while floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the real highlight: unbeatable views. Rates start at B15,500 per night for a one-bedroom suite. Splurge on the rooftop penthouses (B33,000 per night) for panoramic views of the national park from your private infinity pool. The mountain scenery from the swimming pool and open-air restaurant are also not to be missed.

Bungtoey-Khlongdindam Rd., Moo 14, Moo-Si, Pakchong, 093 636 9999. www.nhapha-khaoyai.com

1/3 Moo 6 Thanarat Road, Moo-Si, Pakchong, 044426-000. www.kirimaya.com/resorts/atta

Birder’s Lodge

Escape Khao Yai’s new villas

This quaint new resort features only five European-style wooden cottages spread across lush, flora-filled grounds. Each one comes in a homely modern-meets-rustic style, fully equipped with a kitchen and utilities. Prices range from B3,000-B4,500 per night. During the current promotional period, guests also receive a free barbecue set for a private grill dinner right outside their cottage. There are also bikes available for you to take in all that fresh air. If you’re only doing a one-day trip, there’s also a pretty stunning cafe on-site that sticks to that winning combo of raw wood and greenery.

282 Moo 10, Moo-si, Pakchong, 096-545-4154. www. fb.com/thebirderslodge

These new 263-sq-meter three-bedroom villas, decked out in neutral wooden furniture, come with three bedrooms and bathrooms, a pantry, spacious living room and, the highlight, a private, sunken pool. You can also throw in high ceilings and big windows showing great views of the lush Khao Yai forests. The resort has plenty to offer after your daytime nature walk, such as a multipurpose outdoor spot with a fireplace, a restaurant serving farm-to-table dishes, rooftop bar and communal pool with a well-stocked bar.

There is also a fitness center offering classes like indoor cycling to boxing. Priced at B25,000.

GRAPE HARVEST

Khao Yai’s GranMonte Vineyard and Winery is on its final harvest season, during which visitors who come for their regular B300 wine-tasting tour have a chance to also join in with the grape picking through the end of Feb. 52 Moo 9 Phayayen, Pakchong, 044-009-543, 081-900-8282. www.granmonte.com

Atta Lakeside Resort

YELLOW SUBMARINE COFFEE

Birder’s Lodge

29 Pansuk-Kudkla Rd., Phayayen, Pak Chong, 092-8232590. escape-hotel.com/khaoyai

Step aside, Amazon Coffee. Yellow Submarine Coffee Tank is a project by Secondfloor Architects, who have designed the property in a way that integrates it with the natural surroundings to provide visitors a relaxing, peaceful caffeine fix amid the leafy trees near the entrance of Khao Yai National Park. The industrial-chic, semi-open air cafe is already a hit with locals and visitors, thanks to its insta-friendly design and yummy drinks and dessert offerings, which include over 10 types of cold press juices plus a seasonal menu. It’s only open three days a week, though (Fri-Sun, from 9am11pm), so plan wisely.

149 Moo 10, Moo-si, Pakchong, 096-981-0682. www.fb.com/yellowsubmarinecoffee

Escape Khao Yai

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avenue BEAUTY

Spiritual Summer Remember all that hoo-ha a while back over Pantone’s color of the year? Well, instead of “rose quartz” and “serenity,” Yves Saint Laurent Beaute has shaken things up with its spring/summer look by combining pale pink and green. Going for a free-spirited bohemian theme, the collection’s highlight pieces are two face palettes that come in collectable gold-trimmed packaging.

The pink Gypsy Opale (B2,900) palette focuses on flaw correcting and brightening, while the green Indie Jaspe palette (B2,900) offers five shades of eyeshadow (pale green, sage green, silver, peach and yellow-gold). Another pick is the Fusion Ink Blush (B1,650) whose watery texture is easy to apply, quick to dry and long lasting. Not convinced by the green eye look? Try the La Laque Couture The Opalescent (B990) nail polish in opalescence pink or pink-glittery pale green. M/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-8000. BTS Siam

SERVICE

WORKSHOP

NEW SHOP

Leather Care

Mellow Yellow

Flower Power

Owned by model and actress Grace Karnklao, The Leather Department (theleatherdepartment.com) is a new leather spa service for luxury brand-name shoes and bags. Treatments include cleaning with leather conditioning and UV protection (from B1,800 for shoes and B3,500 for bags), color restoration (from B1,900 for shoes and B4,500 for bags), structuring (from B690 for leather bags and coating against dirt and bacteria (B1,200 for shoes and B2,700 for bags). The whole process for most services takes from 20 to 35 days, depending on size and condition, while color restoration can take up to 60 days. More specific treatments are available for specific brands like Hermes, Celine, Tod’s, Chanel and Balenciaga. Prices include free pickup and delivery. There are also pickup points at Statement (Thonglor) and Yazzay (Siam) shops.

The team behind Ekkamai’s Yellow Spoon Pastry have expanded beyond their cafe and catering services, with a new studio next door that focuses on crafty pop-up workshops. Launched last month, Yellow Lining’s first event was a one-day class in collaboration with A Lot Of Thing ceramists that was limited to just 12 seats. February sees a diverse list of workshops including scrapbook making by Yep Yep Handicraft (Feb 20, 1:30-4:30pm at B1,300/person), mobile case design by Awesomedough (Feb 21 from 9am-noon or 1-4pm at B1,800/person), ceramics by A Lot of Thing (Feb 27 from 1-6pm at B2,600/person) and cookie icing by Sweeten Cup Cafe (Sun 28, details TBA). The space is also available for private events like birthday parties. Advanced bookings are required. Ekkamai Soi 19, 081-560-8359

Thonglor’s latest luxury flower boutique The One and Only Florist focuses mainly on roses and over-the-top presentation. The palm-size roses are all imported from Ecuador, resulting in some pretty unique colors (including stunning two-toned roses), which you can have packed in a one-meter-tall handmade ox-leather or wooden box. The standard box set features roses in a leather or wooden box (B6,800-B7,200), while you can even choose to have a message printed on the petals (no extra charge). There are also options to add chocolates or macarons to the package (from B1,250-2,500) as well as LCD screens with a personalized video (coming soon, B2,900). 124 Sukhumvit Soi 53, 083-294-5990. www.fb.com/theoneandonlyflorist

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avenue

Carnival

Knock BKK

SHOPPING

Step Up Bangkok’s best shoes shops for men. By BK Editorial

Carnival Best for: Sneakers Carnival is one of the biggest and most reliable multi-label chains for street fashion and sneakers. Each branch has a slightly different product focus. The latest white-washed venue focuses exclusively on sneakers from Nike, Adidas and Vans, with some special limited editions. The apparel and accessories shelf also stocks brands like Atmos and Californian streetwear brand Publish as well as shoe cleaner kits from Jason Markk.

Siam Square Soi 7 (next to Hard Rock Cafe). BTS Siam

Don’s Footwear Best for: Made-to-measure shoes Located on the lower floor of Dean & Deluca at the Mahanakhon Cube building, Don’s Footwear specializes in traditional handmade shoes and bespoke crafting. Run by engineer-turned-shoemaker Allan Donnelly, the brand started life back in 2009 as an online business (www.donsfootwear.com).

It offers over 15 different styles, from classic casual to full-on business kicks. The classic made-to-measure service takes 2-3 weeks in total from first measuring day and ranges from B4,000-20,000 per pair. Every purchase also gets two free shoe shines (usually B80).

B1/F, MahaNakhon Cube, 96 Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Rd. BTS Chong Nonsi

Knock BKK Best for: Limited edition sneakers This restaurant-slash-boutique’s shopping side is all about cult kicks like Nike Jordan, Nike Air, Adidas, Asics, Puma and Reebok. They also have a really well-produced website (www. knockbkk.com) for online orders, which they say will be delivered in two days. Prices range from B3,300-22,000.

3/F, 333/1 Sukhumvit Soi 55, between Thonglor soi 15 and 17

London Brown Best for: Polished sneakers

the all-white Smith (at a totally reasonable B1,990) and, if you’re willing to go just a little edgy, the Theo (B3,990). Also check out the Sean slip-ons (B3,390).

Don’s Footwear

Siam Square Soi 2, Rama 1 Rd., 086-332-1544. BTS Siam

Mango Mojito Best for: Formal shoes Richly polished Oxfords and tasseled loafers sit alongside supple leather boat shoes in the windows of this subtle but stylish little boutique. All the shoes are both locally made and designed with a clear eye for how men’s shoes should be shaped (no toe-curling winklepickers here). Prices start at around B4,000.

Siam Square Soi 2, 02-252-5945 J-Avenue, Thonglor Soi 15, 02-712-5529

Onion

Onion

Best for: Cult labels The fashion boutique section of this popular Ekkamai coffee shop is filled with mostly imported cult brands, many of them dedicated to men’s shoes. Trending and hard-to-find pairs include Norse Project x Suicoke sandals, sneakers from Japanese brand Shoes Like Pottery and the locally-produced and extremely limited Rompboy shoes.

19/12 Ekkamai Soi 12. Open daily 8am-8pm

(Un) Fashion Best for: Vintage dress shoes This Ekkamai staple specializes in rare leather shoes, bags and other accessories for both men and women. There’s a clear sense of style to the selection, with most items imported from Italy and dating from the 1970s, although they go back way further (their oldest ever pair was from 1930). Best thing: the pricing won’t give you a heart-attack, with items ranging from just B380-5,000. To get first pick, make sure you visit on Wednesdays, when new stock comes in.

(Un) Fashion

Ekamai Mall, Ekkamai Soi 10, 02-726-9592

These guys have been around for several years now, clocking up the kind of following you don’t get from making cheap crap.

Their designs are classic and basic, but with that slight edge of trend awareness. We like the sneaker collection, especially Mango Mojito

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Marble rounded clutch from Untitled.Brand

Mushroom color XS bucket bag from Allure Leatherwork

SHOPPING

In the Bag Eight luxury bags from Thai designers that won’t break the bank. By Vasachol Quadri

Peace Pollution

Vintage Peacock

Good for: Minimally designed premium PU leather clutches with geometric details.

Good for: Genuine leather bags, clutches and purses that go pretty extreme with exotic materials, from python, croc and iguana to ox fur.

Our pick: Sierra envelope clutch in black and green metallic (B1,660) and Carbon square clutch (B1,460), which both come with removable shoulder strap.

Get yours at: IG: Peacepollution_Store

Our pick: Pythy python bucket bag (B3,590), Metallica hexagonal doctor bag (B3,990) and the Clutchy envelope clutch collection (B3,390).

Allure Leatherwork

Get yours at: HOF shop (Siam Square Soi 2) and www. fb.com/vintagepeacockbag

Good for: Minimally designed genuine leather bucket bags that you can easily match with a wide range of styles, from outgoing tees and jeans combos to cutesy linen dresses.

Untitled.Brand

Our pick: Their signature bucket bag in pure black (B3,690) is the obvious selection or the mushroom color XS bucket bag (B2,890).

Our pick: Black and white marble rounded clutch with adjustable chain strap and wrist strap (B1,250), purse with removable shoulder strap (B950) and wallet (B750).

Get yours at: Taopage shop (Siam Square Soi 2, 081915-7808) and www.fb.com/alluretheleatherworks

Good for: Geometric-shape long strap shoulder bags in premium PU python and croc.

Good for: Plain premium PU with minimal designs.

Chatt_Material Good For: Genuine leather clutches, shoulder bags and totes with a rocker touch.

Our picks: Massive Rock Star rectangular clutch in black with chain detail (B2,600) and The Cube, a white square bag with big chain strap (B3,500).

Get yours at: Statement shop (Thonglor Soi 11, 02-003-6973) and IG: Chatt_Material

Our pick: The Origami short handle bag that also comes with removable long strap for crossbody use, available in light pink, gray and black (B880).

Get yours at: IG: Davin_Design

Raw and Uncommon Good for: Basic designs and good quality daily bags available in both outdoor backpack (canvas) and minimal urban chic (leather) looks.

Riley square bag from Talluah Bag

Hexagonal bag from Vintage Peacock

Our pick: The signature leather Paper Bag collection is inspired by the shape of paper bags. The classic tote made from canvas and vegetable tanned leather is available in black, navy and cream (B2,090), Paper Bag classic leather in black (B3,490) and wallet (B3,490).

Get yours at: The Twentysecond Store (Siam Square Soi 2) and www.fb.com/rawuncommon

What is PU leather? it’s a “split” layer of actual leather covered with polyurethane (PU) embossed to look like the grain of actual leather.

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Origami short handle bag from Davin Design

Get yours at: IG: untitled.brand

Davin Design

Get yours at: Taopage shop (Siam Square Soi 2, 081915-7808) and IG: Tallulah.bag

Classic tote from Raw and Uncommon

Good for: Black and white marble print clutches, purses and wallets.

Tallulah Bag Our pick: Riley square bag with front pouch (B1,650).

This model is available in python and croc prints; you can also have these mixed with plain PU for one or two-toned colors.

Sierra envelope clutch from Peace Pollution

Massive Rock Star rectangular clutch from Chatt Material

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bites & blends RESTAURANT

Reliable Hands While working at New York’s Jewel Bako, Japan-native Masato Shimizu became the youngest chef in NYC ever to win a Michelin star at just 29. After leaving 15 East, his one-Michelin-starred sushi restaurant, he’s moved to Bangkok with his Thai-Japanese wife to open the minimal, compact Sushi Masato. Serving omakase (chef’s selection) exclusively to just 20 diners a night, Shimizu makes his sushi the edomae (or traditional Tokyo) style, with fish delivered daily from Tsukiji Market. One highlight is the uni sushi, which is served in a cup and gives you the choice between the creamy murazaki or stronger bafun sea urchin. The experience is inviting and conversational, and Masato doesn’t shy away from speaking English.

Prices during soft-opening are B3,000 per person for around 20 items. Reservations can be made for 5:30pm and 9pm sittings—though the latest word is they’re completely booked up until April. 3/22 Sawasdee Soi 1, 02-040-0015. Open Tue-Sun 5:30-10pm

DEAL

NEW MENU

NEW MENU

Go Girls

Molecular Journey

Burger Unleashed

Over in Japan, they’re gearing up for Hinamatsuri (Mar 3), otherwise known as Girls’ Festival or Dolls’ Festival. It started as a way of capturing evil spirits through the power of spooky-looking “Hina” dolls, but today serves as an occasion for parents to wish their daughters a happy life. It’s also an excuse for a delicious feast, which is exactly what Okura Prestige has in store this Feb 25-Mar 6. At the hotel’s kaiseki (fine-dining) restaurant Yamazato, chef Shigeru Hagiwara will serve a special set dinner priced at B3,000. Expect a flurry of small plates including the highlight dish of Spanish mackerel and king crab served with asparagus, lotus root, eringi mushrooms, cauliflower sauce and soy sauce. There’s also a gozen set lunch (B900) with deep-fried Sakura shrimp and pond smelt fish. 24/F, The Okura Prestige Bangkok, 57 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-687-9000

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of Sra Bua’s mother restaurant, Copenhagen’s Kiin Kiin, chef Henrik Yde Aldersen has launched a beautiful and comprehensive cookbook called Kiin Kiin Modern Thai Cooking. Priced at B3,000, the heavy hardback comprises more than a hundred recipes of his molecular (and often spectacular) takes on Thai cuisine. At Sra Bua, there’s also a new signature set menu, dubbed The Journey. Chef Andersen plays around with Thai flavors in street-inspired amuse bouche like smoked Thai sausage and chicken skin satay with peanut sauce ice cream. We particularly like the hor mok talay, which comes in two different versions—spicy red curry flan served with crab meat and spicy green frothy curry served with salted codfish. The set menu is available only for dinner at B2,900. Lobby/F, Siam Kempinski, 991/9 Rama 1 Rd., 02-162-9000. BTS Siam

You no longer have to scramble around Mahatun Plaza for food before grabbing a cold one at Hair of The Dog, as the craft beer bar has finally launched a proper food menu. The food predictably sticks to drink-friendly American favorites, made with gourmet ingredients but featuring fast food-like grab-and-go packaging. Highlights are the Naked Burg (beef burger with bacon, B300) and the highly recommended Patty Melt (B320), served on rye bread with oozing cheeses and mushroom. There’s no light fare here—other combos include fries ‘n’ meatballs (spicy lamb meatballs topped on fries, B240) and mac ‘n’ cheese (B240) 2/F, Mahatun Plaza, 888/26 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-6507589. Open daily 5pm-midnight. BTS Phloen Chit

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ADVERTORIAL

Do Not Disturb

Wine Bridge

Party Time

TO-B by Muse Thonglor

66 Station

It’s Friday night. Here’s where to club the night away all around Bangkok.

Chit Lom

Prachachuen

You’ll love it if: Classic Thai covers are your style Before Thonglor and Ekkamai, there was Lang Suan. While most bars here seem to come and go, this institution remains one of Bangkok’s most popular spots to dance the night way. Wine Bridge is a modern-style bar and restaurant; drop by early for a meal of Western comfort food or Thai drinking food, before hitting the dancefloor when the live band starts to tune up. Be warned; this place gets packed on weekends.

The drinks: Get a bottle of Chivas Regal Extra at B2,500 with free six mixers.

You’ll love it if: You can’t handle the traffic in the CBD Lizm is one of your best bets in Prachachuen-Ratchada for a trendy inner-city clubbing vibe—minus the traffic jams. The bar epitomizes the joys of Thai-style clubbing: massive space, live band, pocket-friendly prices. Not that it’s shabby, either: the huge central Eiffel Tower adds a bit of over-the-top Las Vegas glamor to the proceedings. The crowd is a good-looking bunch of 20- and 30-something professionals, so you should fit right in.

The drinks: Get a bottle of Chivas Regal Extra at B2,200.

Wine Bridge

99/13 Lang Suan Rd., 02-251-7767. Open daily 6pm-1am.

Facebook: Wine Bridge Plus

Thonglor

Do Not Disturb

You’ll love it if: EDM is your life Located in Ekkamai Soi 5/1, this club specializes in electronic dance music from local DJs and one-off sets from international big names. The bar is decked out playfully under a vintage hotel theme. You’ll be welcomed by lots of fake hotel doors along the corridor before entering a little rustic main room where metal trolleys function as tables. Don’t let the playful hotel theme fool you. Do Not Disturb will keep you up till late.

The drinks: Get a bottle of Chivas Regal Extra at B3,500 with free-flow mixers all night.

Ekkamai Soi 5/1, 094-414-9266. Open Tue-Sun 8pm-2am.

Facebook: DND Club

TO-B by Muse Thonglor

You’ll love it if: Live band is your guilty pleasure This three-story building is a one-stop nighttime destination.

Kick off proceedings with a hearty dinner along with craft cocktails at their Roof Hideaway rooftop garden on the third floor, before heading down to the dance floor. The live bands here perform Thai and international covers, but the highlight has to be the DJs who get the crowds hopping with bass-heavy billboard hits.

The drinks: Get a bottle of Chivas Regal Extra at B3,400 with free-flow mixers all night.

159/8 Thonglor Soi 10, 089-988-5995. Open Tue-Sun 6pm2am. Facebook: Musebkk

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Lizm

Ratchadapisek Rd., 02-913-9880. Open daily 7pm-2am. Facebook: Lizm

Ramintra Expressway 66 Station

You’ll love it if: You live for open-air live music This is Thai-style clubbing done right: all fun and no pretense. Far from Saturday night’s Sukhumvit gridlock, this huge space is a semi-outdoor collection of colorful shipping containers that give off a fuss-free and energetic vibe. The stage serves up live Thai music daily—keep your eyes on their Facebook page for pop-up gigs from popstars like Singhto Numchoke and Stamp. Make sure you bring lots of friends, and keep the ice and mixers coming.

The drinks: Get a bottle of Chivas Regal Extra at B2,100.

Lizm

9/9 Ekamai-Ramintra Rd., 090-515-6666 and 02-530-0066.

Open 6pm-1am. Facebook: 66Station

Noxs

You’ll love it if: You want to party till dawn Top quality electronic dance music has made its way to Ramintra at the brand new Noxs Bangkok. Located right behind live music spot 66 Station (see above), Noxs offers upbeat electro beats spun by some of Bangkok’s top DJs. The professional lighting and live visuals put lots of more central clubs to shame. You’ve been warned, this is a spot for those who want to move!

The drinks: Get a bottle of Chivas Regal Extra at B1,990.

61 Praditmanutham Rd., 02-539-2000. Open daily 10pm-late.

Facebook: NOXS Bangkok

Noxs

2/15/2559 BE 6:17 PM

blends TASTE TEST

Bangkok’s Best Gin Bars

Juniper Journey Bangkok’s cocktail scene is all about gin right now. Here, we put four new bottles to a blind taste test. Here are the results. By BK Editorial

TEENS OF THAILAND

This was Bangkok’s first bar billing itself as a gin bar. Run by co-founder of Ari drinking gem Barka and mixologist Niks Anuman-Rajadhon (owner of Drinks Academy), this oriental-rustic shop-house has an easy-going atmosphere but the bar is lined with top-quality drinks. The real highlight is Niks’ vast collection of gin, from Plymouth, Tanqueray and Mombasa Club to Ashley Sutton’s Iron Balls and the must-try Hanami gin (the house pour). Niks changes his drink list every day so check the board or chat with him before ordering.

76 Soi Nana (Charoenkrung Rd.), 081-443-3784.

Open Wed-Sun 6pm-12:30am. MRT Hua Lamphong

Teens of Thailand

VESPER

Upscale tapas bar or restaurant that happens to serve great cocktails? However you view Vesper, you can’t leave without splashing out on some serious drinks as well as Mediterranean cuisine designed in partnership with chef Luca Appino (La Bottega di Luca).

The marble bar, helmed by an in-house team which comprises Scotland native Colin Tait and a bevy of Diageo World Class contenders, serves cocktails focused on botanical ingredients—which means lots and lots of gin! Highlight bottles include G’Vine, Martin Miller, Londodn No.3 and Monkey 47.

Hanami Gin

BK PICK!

The background: From Holland, this bottle is made following an original Dutch dry gin recipe using nine botanicals including Japanese cherry blossom.

We say: Very citrusy and alcohol forward on the nose. The taste is sweet like a liqueur and goes down very easily. A smooth gin that comes from the New Western (non-juniper-heavy) school of gin-making.

The G&T mix: East Imperial Burma Tonic Water garnished with pomegranate and thyme leaves.

Fords Gin

Iron Balls

Grandma Jinn’s

The background: Distilled in London, this bottle uses nine botanicals including juniper and coriander seed (the main ingredients), orange, lemon and grapefruit peel, jasmine, orris flower, angelica and cassia.

The background: Founded by Bangkok-based nightlife genius Ashley Sutton, this gin is produced locally based on coconut palm, juniper berries, ginger and lemon grass.

The background: The experimental collaboration between Bootleggers and Prateep Kunasangkham, the maker of small-batch rums Lamoon and Lamai, sees the use of local ingredients including safflower on its sugarcane base.

We say: Very botanical, fresh and clean on the nose. Easily contains the strongest taste of juniper in this test. Well-balanced, warm and spicy with a lingering aftertaste, though It’s balanced but there’s still a sweetness.

The G&T mix: East Imperial Old World Tonic water garnished with lemon zest and orange peel.

We say: Perfumey, floral and very sweet, like vermouth. The taste is so smooth, it brings up floral and fruity citrus notes that are almost like freshly-squeezed juice. You can get the scent of grapefruit and orange. Very modern. The taste is short and doesn’t linger, more like a flavored vodka.

The G&T mix : East Imperial Burma Tonic water garnished with torched rosemary and clove.

How we conducted the test BK’s editorial team conducted this tasting at Teens of Thailand, curated by Niks Anuman-Rajadhon. The first round of tasting was blind, drinking each spirit neat. For the second round, the barman mixed each gin with East Imperial Tonic and a matching garnish recommended by the bar.

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We say: This one smells very strong, rough and earthy on the nose. Quite a contrast from any gin you might be familiar with. The taste is again very sweet, incorporating fresh juices that remind us of cachaca (Brazilian rum, a distilled spirit made from sugarcane juice).

You might not recognize it as gin.

The G&T mix: East Imperial Burma Tonic water garnished with grapes and torched rosemary.

10/15 Convent Rd., 02-235-2777. Open Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm, Sun-Thu 5pm-midnight and FriSat 5pm-1am. BTS Sala Daeng

JUNKER & BAR

Part WTF (crowds drinking on the street outside), part Escapade (hefty-sized, no-nonsense burgers), the compact, galley space packs in a kitchen and a well-stocked bar serving locally brewed spirits, home-infused concoctions and Thai-made craft beers. The owner also has a personal obsession with gin, and is always sourcing new bottle like London No.3, G’Vine and Dodd’s. Basically, just ask the guy what’s new behind the bar and explore.

454 Suanphlu Soi 1, 085-100-3608. Open Tue-Sun from noon-midnight

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bites BK ASKS BURGERS

What bugs you most about Bangkok’s burger scene?

Back to Basics A new collaboration burger between Daniel Thaiger and Brew Beers & Ciders delivers simple pleasures.

By Carl Dixon

CHALERMPON ROHITRATANA OF ESCAPADE “Those who try to stuff too many things into a burger just because some Thais believe that the more toppings, the more value. It’s the same case with pizzas and sushi. To get the best flavors, you need a balance between the bun and toppings.

Bun coloring is also annoying. If it doesn’t flavor the bun, then why bother? Oh, and don’t get me started on the ketchup-on-everything culture.”

Escapade, 112 Phra Athit Rd., 081-406-3773

W

ith Bangkok’s big players seemingly obsessed with outdoing each other with outrageously impractical burgers, here’s a welcome throwback to simpler times.

A new project by food truck pioneer Daniel Thaiger and Thonglor drinking hole Brew Beers & Ciders goes back to basics, aiming to recapture all that was good about old-school American fastfood burgers: flat patties, oozing cheese, zesty pickles and buns that won’t give out on you half-way through.

Daniel Thaiger’s Mark Falcioni likens it to a classic McDonald’s burger, only with much, much better ingredients. The patties are made from prime cuts of Aussie wagyu and angus beef, nestled between local breadmaker Conkey’s steamed potato bun.

Far different from Thaiger’s standard brioche, these buns hold up admirably to the winning combo of

gooey Cheswick cheese, garlicky Thousand Islandslike sauce and juicy patty. Lettuce and tomatoes are not conspicuous by their absence.

Comparatively quick to prepare, the new burgers (dubbed “Simply the Best”) are available at Brew as double, triple and quad stacks in classic (B190/240/280) and BBQ (which adds bacon, jalapenos and a tangy BBQ sauce, B200/250/290) forms, all designed to go down easily with a few drinks.

There are some serious plans for expansion, too, starting with Brew’s Sukhumvit Soi 11 outlet which will soon welcome a late-night kiosk that will not only serve the same burgers but also other comedown bites like poutine.

Brew Beers & Cider, G/F, SeenSpace, Thonglor Soi 13, 02-185-2366

ROLAND GRAHAM OF CHEF BAR “Many establishments claim to sell ‘wagyu burgers,’ but how many can guarantee it’s 100-percent wagyu? I can. I source my wagyu from the only butcher in Thailand that supplies Robbins Island [Tasmania, Australia] wagyu beef, The Accidental Butcher, and I ground it from whole pieces. I feel some places use ‘wagyu’ just as a lure. Burger patties are not necessarily the best use of prime cuts of beef, either.”

Chef Bar, Sukhumvit Soi 21/2, 080-052-7336

More Cool New Burgers in Town

KHAO SOY COWBOY AT SOUL FOOD 555 (B250)

NAKED BURG AT HAIR OF THE DOG (B300)

The most rewarding of this Soul Food spin-off’s three new Thai fusion burgers. Served with sweet potato and mustard pickles, the pulled pork in khao soy curry is ferociously fiery with a satisfying crunch owing to its crispy egg noodles.

This no-frills beef burger features a seasoned 220-gram grass-fed patty, served without cheese with some veggies and a slathering of sauce.

M/F, The Commons, Thonglor Soi 17, 02-101-4526

2/F, Mahatun Plaza, Phloen Chit Rd., 02-650-7589. BTS Phloen Chit

BARBECUE PULLED PORK BURGER AT BRICKS & BONE (B200) Bangkok’s first bourbon bar also does a solid line of barbecue dishes. Made with a sauce that mixes bourbon with dried chili, this pulled pork sandwich gives out a powerfully spicy kick.

2 Rama 9 Soi 41, 091-040-5174

XI-AN BURGER AT XIAO CHI (B180)

BARBECUE SANDWICH AT 722 CRAFT & EXPERIENCE (B260)

ROTATING SPECIALS AT CHEF BAR (PRICES TBA)

Derived from Xi’an’s Muslim quarter’s version of roujiamo (aka Chinese hamburger), this burger is made with panfried bao and chopped lamb shoulder that’s seasoned with Indian spices.

Made by the guy behind Nichada Thani’s BBQ Sandwich King, this classic barbecue sandwich features woodsmoked barbecued pork with Texas-style barbecue sauce.

Chef Roland (see BK Asks) incorporates top-grade produce in his burgers without compromising on comfort. One new offering sees Tasmanian wagyu topped with smoked duck breast, leek puree and local truffle brie, while another combines smoked Chiang Mai pork with pickled jalapeno and roast tomato remoulade, topped with jalapeno Jack cheese.

M/F, The Commons, Thonglor Soi 17, 02-185-2497

9/F, Paradise Sukhumvit Hotel, Ekkamai Soi 12 (Soi Preedee 31), 093-426-3591

Chef Bar, Sukhumvit Soi 21/2, 080-052-7336

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bites

OPEN DOOR

Siam Spring Bistro Boutique hotel Praya Palazzo takes its ancient recipes to the center of town.

The buzz: Praya Palazzo, the beautiful restored-mansion boutique hotel on Chao Phraya’s east bank that can only be accessed by boat, has expanded its old-school Thai fine-dining restaurant into town. After spending a few months on Sukhumvit, it’s now found a new, permanent home on Sathorn.

The decor: Situated on the ground floor of a residential building, Siam Spring shares its light, high-ceilinged space with Close to Nature florist shop. In contrast to the solemn atmosphere over at Praya, this one goes down a casual, friendly route with a minimal room stylishly furnished with the occasional contemporary Thai element like the custom chandeliers.

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The food and drinks: Working closely with her kitchen team, owner Preeyadhorn Pitakvorrarat researched and tested ancient Thai recipes to augment the favorites from Praya Dining. Here though, the plating is less fancy to match the more casual vibe.

Expect to find traditional dishes like kaeng jee juan (chicken and pineapple herb curry, B220), kaeng run juan (spicy beef soup with shrimp paste and sweet basil, B190) and kaeng jued sakoo kai kem (clear soup with salted-egg-yolk-stuffed sago balls, B170)—all of which have background stories the owner and her staff are more than willing to share with diners. Other recommended dishes include the kung talai (fresh shrimp in herb

salad, B170), kao pad song proad (deep-fried crab and corn cake, B260), pad mi kati (stir-fried noodles with coconut milk sauce, B180) and the pandan-packed aromatic cassava flour dumplings in coconut milk (B90). To drinks, refreshing herbal juices are priced at B65-75 while wine starts at B200 by the glass.

Why you should care: Now you don’t have to take a boat to the mysterious mansion to enjoy these hard-to-find dishes from some of the most-treasured recipes ever created. Natcha Sanguankiattichai

1/F, Natural Place Suite, Sathorn Soi 1, 08-7777-3555. MRT Lumphini

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Egg My God

TABLE TALK Amsa

Chicon

NEW AND NOTED

No Yolk Thai comfort food institution Baan Ying has built on its signature khao kai kon (runny omelet) with Egg My God (The Commons, Thonglor Soi 17), where the whole menu centers on eggs. Owner-chef Songsorn Junsunjai rolls out fun, easy dishes like cold angel hair pasta with truffle and chive oil, shiitake and salted egg yolk (B250) and salted egg cheesy fried (B160). His version of steak and egg (B490) places flavorful marinated Australian tenderloin on a bed of cream cheese scrambled eggs, while his khao kai kon toppings here range from tom yum kung (B170) to carbonara (prosciutto, chorizo and parmesan cheese, B230) and Japanese chicken curry (B240).

Med Head Silom's new lunch-friendly cafe, Amsa (22 Silom Rd., 02-6327186), specializes in rotisserie chickens and kebabs marinated in Lebanese, Moroccan or Thai spices served alongside cheese, spreads, dressings and vegetables. For B299 you can get a set

menu that includes your choice of tapas (bruschetta, falafel, calamari and more), main course (chicken shawarma, kebabs) and house-made juice. Or grab a whole chicken to share at B850 with tabouleh and toasted bread. And don't miss the churros (B120).

Gallic Flair At Sathorn's new French restaurant nestled just above Le Cafe des Stagiaires, French chef Aurel Termini creates fine traditional food in a relaxing bistro setting. Some of the offerings at Chicon (2/F, Le Cafe des Stagiaires, 142/21 Sathorn Soi 12, 062-4450445) include his take on poulet ecrevisse (B510), which sees a king prawn and prawn-meat-stuffed chicken with mashed green pea and bisque, and the highlighted pork feet (B620), which are cooked for six hours and then wrapped with mushroom in pork belly fat, served with Marjoram sauce and herbs.

Not only is the food menu completely different from the first floor bar, but the restaurant also has its own petite craft cocktail bar manned by a bartender from the Vice Versa family. Natcha

Chef Man 3/F, Eastin Grand Sathorn, Sathorn Rd., 02-212-3741, 02-212-3789. Open daily 11:30am-2:30pm, 6-10pm. BTS Surasak Chef Man has made a big impression on the local dining scene by serving up some of the best dim sum in the city, along with dishes that add interesting Thai touches (and require reservations days in advance). The Peking duck comes with slices of ripe mango, and the lava buns are decorated with cute pig faces. For a taste of authentic Chef Man magic, head to the original branch in the Eastin Grand Sathorn Hotel, where the dining room is serviced by a large open kitchen and a veritable army of chefs.

Exclusive privileges for Citi credit cardmembers.

Get complimentary Deep-Fried Pumpkin with Taro Paste when spend B1,000 or more/sales slip (Today – 31 Dec 16)

Sanguankiattichai and Oliver Irvine

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

Simply click “Thailand” and then “Gift voucher”

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bites & blends market + Events

THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE HOPPY: OUTLAW BREWING KEG PARTY AT FATTY’S Fatty’s Bar and Diner hosts a party featuring beers from Loei’s Outlaw Brewery and live music. Feb 19 from 7pm.

598/66 Asoke Din Daeng Rd., 081-438-7221

Advertise your business with us ­

Sway

ALL YOU CAN DRINK N EAT This Feb 21, Sway offers all-you-caneat wings with free-flow Tiger and Heineken draft for B499.

Medici

Arena 10, Thonglor Soi 10, 02-711-6052

starting from B6,000

RETURN OF SWING ERA Medici hosts a six-course wine dinner featuring Biggles Big Band from Amsterdam on Mar 3 from 7:30pm.

B4,000 per person.

Wine Pub

CHEF GILLES REINHARDT

Hotel Muse, 55/555 Langsuan Rd., 02-6304000

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

ZEFFER CIDER: MEET THE BREWER

This Mar 9-12, Wine Pub welcomes back French guest chef Gilles Reinhardt of Paul Bocuse’s L’Auberge du Pont de Collonges. He’ll serve the restaurant’s classic dishes at B3,750 net for 3 courses and B5,950 net for 5 courses.

Credit card/Debit card payment accepted

Pullman Bangkok King Power, 8/2 Rangnam Rd., 02-680-9999

CHEF MICHAEL DEANE PRESENTS THE BEST OF IRISH FOOD This Mar 8-12, Viu welcomes Chef Michael Deane, whose Deanes restaurant in Belfast was the longest-running Michelin-star holder in Northern Ireland (1997-2010), for a special Irish menu. B4,200-7,500.

12/F, St. Regis Hotel Bangkok, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-207-7777. BTS Ratchadamri

Seven Spoons

Zeffer cider maker visits Sway this Mar 5 and offers buy-one-get-one-free deals on all cider including limited bottles like Newton Pippin, 2.5 and Cider Demi Sec. Sway, Arena 10, Thonglor Soi 10, 02-711-6052

Te

New Menus

TE

Patisserie Rosie 22 Kitchen and Bar

46TH ANNIVERSARY This Feb 27, all Dusit Thani’s restaurants let you order a dish at only B46 when you spend over B1,970. Selected dishes include crispy catfish salad at Benjarong, bao bun tacos at 22 Kitchen & Bar, pumpkin julienne coated with golden egg yolk at The Mayflower, smoked beetroot salad at Hamilton’s Steak House, rice noodles soup at Thien Duong and wine by the glass at The Pavilion.

Dusit Thani, 946 Rama 4 Rd., 02-200-9000.

MRT Silom

22 Kitch

The tea master TE rolls out its first dessert items—tea-infused cookies. Available in two intense flavors of Green Monsoon tea (a blend of genmaicha and matcha green tea ) and Midnight Earl Grey (black Assam tea, lavender, peppermint and turmeric, both B220). www.fb.com/thetepot

SEVEN SPOONS Chef Somkiat Pairojmaharij launches new dinner dishes that play around with more local ingredients such as the beetroot and egg salad (B220) which features local free-range eggs, kale and dill. Check out the new cocktails, too.

22-24 Chakkaphatdi Phong Rd., 02-629-9214

Amatissimo Caffee

PATISSERIE ROSIE

AMATISSIMO CAFFEE

New dessert items come with all-sweet looks like the rose-shaped white peach tart (B195) and the heart-shaped raspberry tartlette (B180).

The cafe’s monthly specials include Ispahan-inspired almond croissants and waffles, plus croissant varieties like beetroot, saffron, truffle and charcoal.

113/2 Thonglor Soi 10, 092-542-9900

7/F, Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 098-289-8723.

BTS Phrom Phong

THAILAND COFFEE FEST 2016 On Feb 25-28 coffee connoisseurs can expect coffee workshops, bean and machine discounts at Queen Sirikit Convention Center.

Ratchada Rd. MRT Queen Sirikit Convention Center

30%off

THE EASIEST WAY TO BOOK YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS 22

Find out more at www.chope.co/toptables

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bites FOOD REVIEWS

Chairman HHHH Chinese/Western. B/F, Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-261-0426. Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Phrom Phong. BB F

Having expanded with a handful of new branches, Chef Man has a rightful claim to being Bangkok’s most reliable and accessible name for dim sum. With this Emquartier spin-off, Chef Man Wai Yin takes his empire in a very different direction, but one that’s no less ripe for franchising.

Chairman goes for a ‘50s Hong Kong diner vibe (known as bing sutt or bing shi), serving carb-heavy Cantonese versions of Western food. Travelers to Hong Kong will likely know the type of place it imitates: Formica tabletops, lino floor, mint green walls and a general sense that nothing’s changed in 30 years. The mall setting obviously means it lacks the time-worn appeal of such institutions, but food-wise it’s as faithful a rendition as you’ll find.

That’s not necessarily high praise, but there’s an undeniable charm to these idiosyncratic, deeply unfashionable baked,

LUNCHES FOR LESS! Lunch for four, pay for just three at BEST WESTERN PLUS Wanda Grand Hotel!

Mitsumori of Tokyo HHHH Japanese. 47/1 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-640-8283.

Open daily 11:30am-2:30pm; Mon-Sat 5-11pm; Sun 5-10pm. BB-BBB. Corkage B500. F H

International Buffet Lunch @ Vivanda Cuisine Available every day from 11:30 to 14:30 hrs Valid from now until March 31, 2016 For more information and reservation, please call 02-582-8282 ext. 4002 Prices are subject to 10% service charge and applicable 7% government tax

Wanda Grand Hotel 111 M.4 Chaengwattana Road, Klongklua, Pakkred, Nonthaburi 11120 P: +66 2582 8282 bestwesternasia.com

Behind a non-descript gate with only minimal signage sits this red Japanesestyle house, belonging to the Ootoya restaurant chain. But unlike every other Ootoya branch in Thailand, this one has not been taken over by Central Restaurant Group, and it specializes in top-tier i n g r e d i e n t s d e l i v e r e d b y s u p e rknowledgeable servers. It also only focuses on a few specialties: yakitori (skewered chicken) and soba (buckwheat noodles).

The fresh ingredients star here, resulting in food that’s all but impossible not to love.

That’s why the house is full with Japanese diners and why you really have to make a reservation to get a seat. At the open station in the middle of the house, the chefs work their magic over a charcoal grill, 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.

fried and noodle dishes. Some of it’s plain weird—there’s just no dressing up instant noodles with spam and a sunny-side-up egg (B170)—but there’s a lot more than simply novelty value on offer. The baked rice dishes are particularly enjoyable, especially the chicken in Macanese/ Portuguese-influenced coconut curry sauce (B230). This slop on a plate won’t win any beauty awards, but we enjoy its creamy texture and subtle spicing. The shrimp wonton soup (B180), too, comes with a well-rounded broth and plump dumplings befitting the Chef Man name. This is hardly the place to come looking for greens—the deep-fried eggplant with pork floss (B140) barely counts, though the light tempuralike batter is less oily than it looks—but whatever you do, make sure to order a serving of the poached vegetables with oyster sauce (crisp bok choy on our last visit, B160). Where Chairman especially excels is dessert, which includes some welcome dishes from Chef Man, namely the always-refreshing chilled mango puree with mango and pomelo (B110) and the signature salted egg yolk custard bun (B40). You can also have French toast with this lava filling (B140)—an absolutely delicious, albeit extreme artery-clogging guilty pleasure. Despite it being one of the bigger restaurants in Emquartier’s bustling basement food court, there’s little sense of occasion here. There’s also no booze. You wouldn’t come to Chairman for a date or a birthday, but it hits the mark for a milky cup of tea and some retro junk food. releasing just the slightest puffs of smoke to complement the warm and friendly atmosphere. Their use of free-range chicken results in the firmer texture of all their yakitori, which ranges from neck (B90) and wing (B100) to thigh (B110) and offal (B90). One highlight is the perfectly seasoned and lightly glazed minced chicken (B120). Naturally, there’s a solid list of Japanese beer (starting at B80), sake (starting at B390) and shochu (starting at B220) to go with. The daily-made soba (B280) is also impressive, its freshness standing out even against the wellbalanced soup. There are plenty of soba varieties on offer, both cold and warm. The quality of the ingredients is also wellreflected in the superb cold tofu (B140), which the restaurant claims to be made fresh every morning and goes really well with thinly sliced dried bonito fish, and the crisp mizuna (Japanese mustard) salad (B280), served with salted konbu seaweed.

The attention to detail continues at dessert.

We really like the subtle almond notes in the annin tofu parfait (B150), well complemented by mango, and the slightly salty plum jelly (B150). Mitsumori demands return visits—the only thing potentially holding us back is the need to book a table the day before. You might be better served heading there for lunch, when they do sets starting at B230.

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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Leandro Godoi

now

FRI The Perks of Being a Wallflower She’s taken home five Grammy awards, has dominated the Billboard charts with eight studio albums, and now the world-renowned jazz artist Diana Krall is performing live at Royal Paragon Hall (6/F, Siam Paragon) this Feb 19.

Promising covers of popular pop and rock hits from the ‘60s through to today, as well as songs from her latest studio album, Wallflower, this is a concert jazz fans will not want to miss. Tickets are B1,500-5,000 from Thaiticketmajor.

SUN Made in Hong Kong SAT Pass it On It's a lot easier to keep your feet moving with your friends there to cheer you on (or to drag you to the finish line!). So gather your gang this Feb 20 and head to Suan Luang Rama 9 Park for this brand new team running event, The Great Relay, where groups of 2, 4 or 6 runners are challenged to a relay race. Each member of the team finishes a lap and passes on the baton to the next person until you complete the total distance. B800-1050. Register at bit.ly/1Rp2vZ8.

To kick off the Lunar New Year, this Feb 21’s Hong Kong Film Festival showcases a variety of vintage films featuring Hong Kong’s biggest names including Chow Yun Fat, Lady Lau, Ng Man-tat, Stephen Chow and more. It's happening at Jam (41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, Sathorn Rd. BTS Surasak), which also promises a full Chinese banquet followed by some karaoke upstairs. Tickets B500 at on.fb.me/1SLrpmN.

THU Student Fest

THU Life Cycle This Feb 25, head over to YenakArt Villa (69 Soi Prasat Suk, Yen Akat Rd., 02-235-9800) for Samsara: the Cycle of Life, a performance by Sejal S Sood that explores the beauty and strength of female creation and the cycle of life through a dynamic dance performance that focuses on rhythm and intensity.

The performance will also be accompanied by a series of oil paintings, mixed media works and live percussion performances.

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This Feb 18-19, Nitade Fest returns with heaps of food, live music and lots and shopping.

Under the theme of “Picnic,” the event at Chulalongkorn University promises more than 80 stalls split into three zones.

Catch live music performances from Fifty-One, Mygrain, Tilly Birds, Scrubbm X0809 and a wide array of university bands, as well as special screenings of five short films, all followed by director talks. Free entry.

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LIVE MUSIC

NIGHTLIFE

Archie Hamilton

Ekali Guerilla Music Festival

ARCHIE HAMILTON The London-based house and techno DJ, known for his minimal and deep rolling bass style, makes his Asia debut with support from local DJ Superpanda. Feb 19, 10pm. Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-2613007, 02-261-4446. B350. MRT Sukhumvit.

EKALI

The up and coming Canadian DJ, who made his name with remixes for Denzel Curry and What So Not, spins bass and soul beats with support from resident DJs Nat and Slomororo. Feb 21, 9pm. Grease, Piman 49, 46/12-13 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-662-6120-1. B300-400.

BLAST!

LEVEL UP PARTY

Plenty of tech house and techno from DJs Sunju Hargun, Mendy Indigo and Messie Joe with special guests from Spain, DJs Nukier and Adiero. Feb 19, 10pm. Live RCA Bangkok, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 086860-0808. B350.

A night of high-energy EDM from DJs Dektayy, Jay Schema, Aris and Nicky, Ko System and Paper Mache, as well as MC I-Tim. Feb 24, 9pm.

Demo, Thonglor Soi 10. Free.

GISHIYAMA NIGHT

A night dedicated to putting modern spins on traditional Thai music, inculding mo lam , luk thung and Thai funk, featuring DJs Gishiyama, Gaolao, Meehaa, Dai and Tep, plus special guests DLMK, Noxro and Know Future. Feb 20, 7pm. GOJA Gallery Café, 5/2 Pridi Soi 3, 085848-7576. Free. BTS Phra Khanong.

KONTRABAND

DJs Delorean & Azek, Will, Sir Walt and Stuart Nombluez bring a mix of hip-hop, bass, dubstep, dub techno, UK funky, footwork, ballroom and drum 'n' bass to the stage. Feb 20, 9pm. Dark Bar, 2/F, Ekamai Mall, Ekkamai Soi 10, 02-381-9896, 090528-4646. B200 includes one drink.

JAM

Live performances from Hers, Petite & Data Darancharas and electro house from DJs Warah, Mean, Hongyok and Papermache. Dress code is all black. Feb 26, 7pm.

Demo, Thonglor Soi 10. Free.

FRANCESCA LOMBARDO

The English DJ known for her live instrumental sets takes over the night with deep and tech house.

Feb 26, 9pm. Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-261-3007, 02-2614446. Free. MRT Sukhumvit.

KKBox Music Playtime

UNDERGROUND CIRCUS FEAT. MATTHIAS MEYER

DJs Sunju Hargun, Dan Buri and Boris Rubin are joined by the special guest house and techno DJ from Hamburg, known for his tracks "Becuz," "Sirens" and "More or Less." Feb 26, 9pm. Live RCA Bangkok, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 086860-0808. B400 includes one drink.

STRICTLY STEPPAS

The Bangkok Reggae Appreciation Society hosts its 24th party with special guest DJ Lioness Izasha from the UK. He'll be joined by DJs Woken, Penitence and K9 for dub, new roots and steppas tracks all night long. Feb 27, 7pm. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833.

B100. BTS Surasak.

NITE RIDE

DJs Boogie G, Dangdut Banget and Lows spin the best of modern funk, disco, boogie and electro funk, plus a live performance from local band Gramaphone Children. Feb 27, 9pm. Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. B100-200. BTS Thong Lo.

SURREALISTIC PEOPLE NO. 7

Join DJ Paul Unglo for a night of cinematic funk, avant-garde jazz, psycho-beat instrumentals and everything in between. Feb 26, 9pm.

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

Bird Thongchai

concerts DIANA KRALL

The five-time Grammy Award-winning jazz artist performs tracks from her latest studio album, Wallflower, comprising covers of popular pop and rock hit songs from the '60s through to today, including those by Bob Dylan, Elton John and The Eagles. Feb 19, 8pm. Royal Paragon Hall, 5/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-8023. B1,500-5,000 from Thaiticketmajor. BTS Siam.

KKBOX MUSIC PLAYTIME #5

The mini-music festival to celebrate collaborations returns, with this edition featuring performances from Singto Numchok and Pijika, as well as more new talents. There also promises to be a flea market, food and plenty of workshops.

Feb 27, 4pm. Rockademy, A-Square (next to Flow House, opposite K-Village), Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02-261-3833. Free.

BIRD THONGCHAI

One of the country's most successful singers takes the stage with other big names including Joey Boy, 25 Hours, Paradox and many more for a massive concert of all genres. Feb 27-28, 3pm. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4455. B1,000-5,000 from Thaiticketmajor.

GUERILLA MUSIC FESTIVAL

Local bands Airplane Mode, The Reckless, The Note, Ciggarette Launcher, Alyn, Daft, Fwends, Mnemonic, The Missing Teeth and Mattnimare take the stage in a celebration of musical diversity and freedom. Dress code is black and white.

Feb 28, 5pm. Rockademy, A-Square (next to Flow House, opposite K-Village), Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02-261-3833. B200-250.

CLASSICAL

Harold in Italy

HAROLD IN ITALY

LOVE LETTERS CONCERT

Enjoy romantic symphonies including Berlioz's Harold in Italy, Op. 16 and Rachmaninoff's Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op. 27 from the Thai Philharmonic Orchestra and special guest American violist Jennifer Stumm. Feb 19, 7pm; Feb 20, 4pm.

Prince Mahidol Hall, Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd. B300500.

An evening of love songs by the Suanphlu Chorus group, conducted by Ramon Lijauco Jr. Feb 27, 7:30pm.

Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456. B400500. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

WORLD DOCTORS OCHESTRA

World Doctors Orchestra

Conducted by Prof Dr Stefan Willich, this non-profit orchestra raises funds for music therapy through their performances of Ludwig van Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 3 and Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov's Scheherazade, Op. 35. Feb 27, 4pm. Prince Mahidol Hall, Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd. B800-2,500.

PIANO & VIOLIN & VIOLA D'AMORE

A piano performance by Nat Yontararak accompanied by a violin and viola d'amore by Daniel Fradkin to raise funds for the Gift of Life Foundation assisting blood disease patients around the country. Feb 28, 4pm. Sala Sudasiri Sobha, Lad Phrao Soi 41, 02-541-8662. B700.

gigs SASI

Known for their psychedelic folk sound, the band performs live after having made their name at events like Stone Free Music Festival, Gift in the Wood Festival and Fisherfolk. Feb 19, 9pm. WTF Gallery & Café, 7 Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-662-6246. Free. BTS Thong Lo. NOWHERE END #14

Live indie alternative rock and Americana folk rock music from Abstraction XL, Matthew Fischer & The Fishes and Spring Fall Sea. Feb 21, 3pm. 1979 Vinyls and Unknown Pleasures, 4/F, Black Amber, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor).

B150.

100% HEAVY METAL

A night of covers from heavy metal bands Tornado, Neverland, Outro and Sugar Rocket who'll be playing songs from the likes of Ozzy Osbourne, Guns 'n' Roses, Metallica, Iron Maiden and Black Sabbath. Feb 26, 8:30pm. The Rock Pub, Hollywood Street, 93/26-28 Phaya Thai Rd., 02-251-9980, 086977-0621. B200. BTS Ratchathewi.

BREAK A TOOTH PARTY

Live performances from up and coming local metal bands including Keep Up, The Rocket Whale, Ex's and Oh's, Last Hoper and In Vice Versa. Feb 27, 5pm.

Parking Toys, 17/22 Ram Indra Soi 14, 02-907-2228. B100.

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now ART

THEATER

DRACULA - BLOOD IS LIFE

59X59 YANO X OKUDA MIME

Japanese mime veterens Yano Kazuki and Okuda Masashi perform a one-of-kind program including the stories "Samurai BTS" and "Old Man Pantomime." Feb 26-28, 8pm. Crescent Moon Space, 65/1 Thonglor Rd., 02-3813860. B300-450. BTS Thong Lo. LONE MAN AND THE FLOWERS

Four artists perform solo pieces, ranging from movement to percussion, to tell the story of a lonesome man who finds peace and happiness when he comes across a field of flowers. Feb 25-29, 7:30pm; Mar 3-7, 7:30pm. Thong Lor Art Space, 58/14-15 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). B490.

This Feb 27, 9am, learn the fundamentals of different street workouts including dance, martial arts and outdoor fitness.

The morning features a series of workshops introducing the basics of footwork for street dancing; the movements of Capoeira, a Brazilian martial art; and beginner strength workouts. In the afternoon, sit back and enjoy the street strength in action as professional groups compete in a street workout competition for a grand prize of B10,000. In the evening, wind down with plenty of beers and music from DJs Jimmy Twice Return and Rory Breaker Morant.

Tr a i n i n g G ro u n d B K K , 36/2 S u k h u mv i t S o i 69, 094-479-6988

SALES & FAIRS NITADEFEST 2016

A flea market featuring fashion booths and food stalls, as well as outdoor movie screenings and live music performances from Fifty-One, Mygrain, Tilly Birds, Scrubb and many more.

Through Feb 19, 4pm. Chulalongkorn University, 254 Phaya Thai Rd., 02-215-0871/-3.

LOLLIPOP MARKET

An open-air market with booths selling desserts from meringues to cakes to ice cream, as well as fashion stalls and food trucks. Through Feb 21, 11am. K Village, Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02 2589919-21.

NEON FEST

This container market promises a massive 931 booths that combine eating, drinking and shopping in one place. Special events like concerts from Tatoo Colour, Singto Namchok and Lipta, plus plenty of other surprise festivities are also lined up. Open every Thu-Sun until Jul 1. Through Jul 1, 5pm. Lumphini Park, Rama 4 Rd. MRT Silom/Lumphini.

THE KNACK MARKET

The Knack Market

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EXODUSK

A series of prints from fourth-year students at King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang which explore the concept of perception and its relationship with religion, experience and culture. Feb 24-Mar 14, Jamjuree Gallery, Jamjuree 8, Phaya Thai Rd., 02-218-3709.

Isara Singhatokaew, Maethawee Chiraphong and Pittawas Euavongkul showcase their intricate sketches exploring the way humans and man-made objects contort the nature around us. Feb 20-Mar 27. Kalwit Studio & Gallery, Soi Ruam Rudi, 02-254-4629.

Director Joe Harmston presents Steven Dietz's 1996 stage adaptation of Dracula in a play that combines magic, illusion and music. The performance follows Dracula's arrival in England, where he tries to drink the blood of two young women only to be defeated by their suitors. Through Feb 6, 2pm, 7:30pm. K-Bank Siam Pic-Ganesha Theater, Siam Square One, Rama 1 Rd., 02-257-2899. B1,200-3,800 from Thaiticketmajor.

BTS Siam.

WHY NOT Show Your Street Strength

Lollipop Market

20TH CENTURY PRINT

The monthly '70s-themed market returns, bringing with it plenty of booths selling art, crafts, street food and clothes, plus live music performances in the open-air, hippy vibe of Jam Factory. Feb 27-28, 4pm. The Jam Factory, 41/1-41/2 Charoen Nakorn Rd., 02-861-0950.

INNER SPACE

MADE BY PARIS?

A group exhibition of graphic designs, paintings and animation exploring the concept of individuality by four Thai illustrators. Feb 20-Apr 2. U Baan, 204 Soi Chinda Thawin, Si Phraya Rd., 088-088-5140.

Wisharawish Akarasantisook's latest exhibition includes 24 collages of pictures, wordings and articles capturing impressions and experiences of how Parisians live their daily lives, as inspired by the six months he spent there. Feb 24-Mar 12. The Adler Subhashok Gallery, 160/3 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-662-0299.

SPOTLIGHT Wisharawish Akarasantisook, artist My favorite Thai artist is… Araya Rasdjarmrearnsook. I first saw her work in France without knowing she was also Thai, but it stuck in my mind for many days to follow and I’ve been keeping up with her work ever since.

My favorite recent art exhibition was… the art installation called The Who? by the Playhound designer Jitsing Somboon. I love how it combined many time periods to explore modern-day adolescence. You can still check out the works at #thewhothebrandfortheband [on Instagram].

One thing I love most about the Thai art scene is… inspiration is everywhere­—there’s always something new happening and we are getting more influences from other countries every day. This means our art scene will only keep moving and changing.

One thing I don’t like about the Thai art scene is… the lack of people out there who really, truly appreciate art and design. It’s like you’re a chef, but there’s no one around to eat the food you cook­—or maybe they only like one type of food, and you must only cook that.

In the future, I want to see Thai artists… get more opportunities to showcase their work or receive support when they are still starting out. At the same time, it would be great to see more international artists choose Thailand as a place to exhibit their work.

Wisharawish Akarasantisook’s latest exhibition, Made by Paris?, runs from Feb 24-Mar 12 at Adler Subhashok Gallery (160/3 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-662-0299).

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CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

SPORTS

Hack Your Keyboard

MINIMORE SESSON 2: CONTENT MAKER

A series of workshops led by the social content editor from Cleo Thailand, a columnist for Giraffe and A Day magazine, and Minimore's website content creator who will discuss the steps of writing engaging, interesting online content. Register at minimore. com/session/02. Feb 20, 10am. Banlue Building, 955, Pracha Songkhro Rd., 02-641-9955. Free.

HACK YOUR KEYBOARD

Learn basic interactive animation skills and create 3D computer graphics and game engines. A Mac or Win-

dows laptop is required. Register at workshop.tentaclesgallery.com. Feb 20, 1pm. Tentacles, Room B01, Homeplace Bld., 283/11-12 Sukhumvit Soi 55, 089-117-3434. B2,200.

ECOMMERCE IQ

Google and aCommerce host a oneday bootcamp on accelerating your digital business growth through a series of seminars and discussions with e-commerce experts. Pre-registration is required at bit.ly/ecomIQ. Feb 25, 8:30pm. W Bangkok, 106 Sathorn Rd., 02-344-4000. Free. BTS Chong Nonsi.

Asics City Relay

EYE RUN

A charity run to raise awareness for glaucoma, offering 2.6, 5.2 and 10.4km distances. Register at bit.ly/1mujqvL. Mar 6, 6am. Suan Rod Fai (Vachirabenjatas Park ), Kamphaeng Phet 3, 02-537-9221. B400. MRT Phahon Yothin.

RUN 2GETHER

A special run partnering disabled runners and non-disabled ("guide runners") to exercise together. Participants can sign up individually and get partnered up on the day. Offering distances 2.5, 5 and 10km. Register at 086-069-5652. Mar 20, 5am. Lumphini Park, Rama 4 Rd. B200.

ASICS CITY RELAY

Teams of four are challenged to take on this night-time relay race, where each person will run either 5.25km

Colour Miles for Smiles

or 10.5km to complete the overall distances of 21km or 42km. Register at bit.ly/1mujqvL. Mar 26, 6:30pm.

Grand Palace, Na Phra Lan Rd., 02-623-5500 ext.3100.

B2,200-3,200.

10K THAILAND CHAMPIONSHIP

A 10km race to determine the fastest long-distance runners in the country. Stay updated at on.fb.me/1XkNAz0.

Apr 3. National Stadium (Suphachalasai Stadium), 154 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-0120. BTS National Stadium.

COLOUR MILES FOR SMILES

The international schools of Bangkok have teamed up for the third year to organize this charity fundraiser for Operation Smile. Every kilometer completed at this run will surprise runners with a different colored powder.

Apr 9, 5pm. Lumphini Park, Rama 4 Rd. B800. MRT Silom/Lumphini.

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JOY (USA)

ZOOLANDER 2 (USA)

Biography/Drama. A story spanning four generations of the Mangano family, including the self-made millionaire who invented the Miracle Mop (played

by Jennifer Lawrence) despite the many obstacles in her life. Feb 18

Comedy. Models Derek (Ben Stiller) and Hansel (Owen Wilson) are back, this time faced with a dangerous conspiracy theory that promises to push their high fashion game to a new level. Feb 18

LITTLE BOY (USA)

LEGEND (UK)

Drama. As a young boy (Jakob Salvati) eagerly awaits his father’s return from World War II, he encounters a magician and a priest who convince him that he has the powers to conjure his father’s homecoming. Feb 18

True Crime. Twin brothers Reggie and Ronnie Kray (Tom Hardy) orchestrate a series of robberies and murders in 1960s London in a rapid rise to power and notoriety. Feb 18 CONCUSSION (USA)

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Drama. Dr. Bennet Omalu (Will Smith) discovers a brain disease similar to Alzheimer’s in a former NFL football player, Mike Webster (David Morse), and begins the journey to raise public awareness about football-related head traumas. Feb 18

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Upcoming

Now Hiring

ZOOTOPIA (USA)

Animation. Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin) is the first rabbit to join the police force in the mammal metropolis of Zootopia, where she must strive to prove herself against her discriminating fox boss (voiced by Jason Bateman). Feb 25

• ART DIRECTOR

ANOMALISA

Stop-motion/Drama. A lonely author (voiced by David Thewlis) leads a mundane life perceiving everyone in the world as identical, until one day he meets a unique woman who turns his world view upside down. Feb 25

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GODS OF EGYPT (USA)

Adventure. When Egypt’s God of Darkness (Gerard Butler) steals the throne, a brave mortal (Brenton Thwaites) teams up with the powerful god Horus to defend the empire. Feb 25 SON OF SAUL (HUNGARY)

Drama/Horror. A Jewish prisoner in the Auschwitz concentration camp during World War II is forced to burn the corpses of his own people when he suddenly spots a young body that resembles his own son. Feb 25

SPECIAL SCREENINGS This Feb 25, the Thai Film Archive and Goethe Institute Thailand present a special outdoor screening of Wim Wenders’ renowned 1987 romantic film Wings of Desire in Lumphini Park. The story follows two guardian angels who watch over the city of Berlin, one of whom wishes to transform into a human after he suddenly falls in love with an artist.

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6:30pm. Free entry. Lumphini Park, Rama 4 Rd. BTS Sala Daeng, MRT Silom/Lumphini.

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