BK Magazine 630 March 4, 2016

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it's free!

So long Sathorn

BK MAGAZINE NO. 630 FRIDAY, MARCH 4, 2016. www.bkmagazine.com

THONGLOR

IS BACK

Meet the people and places making the street great again

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page 3 06 cover story

The Evitably Trap

Thonglor Trek

Bangkok’s Vicious Restaurant Cycle 4 upfront

16 fashion

Secret History

Smart Choices 20 blends

22 bites

Cocktail Trends

Ready Steady 33 BK Now

Open for Business

Shooting the Breeze

Who's in charge?

Editor in Chief / Product Director Grégoire Glachant Managing Editor Oliver Irvine Deputy Editor Carl Dixon Features Associate Monruedee Jansuttipan Branded Content Associate Sureepak Janyapat Senior Staff Writers Vasachol Quadri, Lily Kittisrikangwan Staff Writers Natcha Sanguankiattichai, Bonnie Sananvatananont Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Junior Writer Kankanid Mitrpakdee Production Supervisor Komkrit Klinkaeo 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 Managers 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

Logic Behind the “5 Great Balls” Approach

Your grandma’s recipe

Just add cheese

Contributor Kathy MacLeod Intern Joseph Lam

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

BK Loves You!

No-slaves shrimp

Cover Peeraya Sirathanisa

Regional Marketing Manager Pavida Chitprasertsuk IT Manager Takrit Jitjaroen Distribution Manager Suda Angsuputiphant

• Bi-polar chefs • Popsanova • TripAdvisor Reviews

Bangkok’s Lost Restaurants

24 bites

Managing Director Andrew Hiransomboon

• White subway tiles trap • Dangling lightbulbs trap • Caesar salad trap • Clipboard menu trap

Quadruple pour cocktails

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

Artisanal Cupcakes

Ugh

Hot Burmese staff

Artisanal Sausages

Yawn

Artisanal Gin

Yes please!

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, March 4, 2016

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upfront HOT OR NOT

Hot: Boulevardier

Not: Old Fashioned

Old fashioneds have become exactly that. So put down that glass and get with the new-school wave of old-school cocktails like Brooklyn, Boulevardier, Lucien Gaudin and Hanky Panky. All of these taste like pure booze, give you flame-thrower breath and cost a fortune—which is exactly what your drink’s meant to be like right now (see page 20). Sorry, we don’t make the rules.

INTERVIEW

Hot: Thonglor

Not: Sathorn

We were all kidding ourselves that the U-bend of bars that constituted Sathorn’s uprising was ever going to rival Thonglor and its streets lined with ramen champion chefs, hidden speakeasy bars and co-working-cafes-slashbike-shops (see cover story, page 6). Now that those same Sathorn bars have all moved to Thonglor as well, we’re finally willing to throw in the towel. You win. Now can we have our old room on Soi 8 back?

Hot: Panda art

Not: Commercial art

As of Friday, 1,600 chubby papier mache pandas with more than a passing resemblance to Chavalit Yongchaiyudh (see below) have planted themselves on the grass at Sanam Luang. Their mission: to let us know that they have a life beyond Lin Ping’s cage and hope to keep it. This is obviously awesome news. It definitely beats the pants off what passes for art at Bangkok CityCity gallery, which is following up its exhibition to sell German sunglasses with one about why we should drink Perrier (see page 28). And this is what people are calling the coolest new gallery in town?

Hot: Old PMs

Not: New PMs

After years without one-year-wonder Chavalit Yongchaiyudh making headlines, the aging general-turned-PM-turned-opponent-of-pretty-much-everyone is back in the news making bold claims about ISIS and telling Dear Leader to go shove it—something which the NCPO currently shows no intention of doing whatsoever. And Loong Maew, too, has come out of the woodwork! At this rate, we’re never going to have any new PMs who can become old PMs who can talk trash about the new new PMs.

THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

4

Chantawipa Apisuk, 68, is the Director of Empower Foundation, a charity that supports Thailand’s sex workers and also runs This is Us museum in Nonthaburi, a little-known space dedicated to the history of prostitution in Thailand. Ahead of World Women’s Day on Mar 8, BK chats with this Harvard Law School-grad about the by-appointment-only museum and the current state of Thailand’s notorious sex industry.

Why isn’t the museum open to the general public?

Thais love sex but hide it. Because Thai tradition isn’t open about sex, it contributes to cases of sexual abuse, rape and even murder. Sex work is a sin in the eyes of many and prostitutes are always discriminated against. Simply put, this museum isn’t like Ripley’s in Pattaya where you go see weird stuff. Here, we provide information on the value of sex workers and the development of the sex industry in Thailand. Four-hundred years ago, Thai prostitutes sold sex for 10 kilos of rice. Surprisingly, that’s about the same price as today.

Who are your visitors?

It’s a real mix and includes people from the media, activists as well as science and medical students from around the world. They come here to study about humanity, because we all have sex. Also, when people think of the sex industry, many think about Thailand, for obvious reasons.

It’s up to us to show people there’s more to the country than that.

What got you interested in the sex industry in the first place?

Back in the early ‘70s, I was upset at being repeatedly questioned by

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customs officers just because I was a Thai woman and our country was infamous for prostitution, drugs and sex trafficking. As I had studied at Boston College, I always had foreign friends come visit and they would want to see Patpong, which was then the red light district of the world. I gradually became friends with some prostitutes who inspired me to found the Empower Foundation in 1985. My aim was to provide help for sex workers through programs such as English classes.

Why is our sex industry still going so strong?

It’s all about money. Police, public servants and soldiers allow it to live because they get money from it every month. There are billions of baht circulating in the industry—and let’s not forget, these police, soldiers and public servants are all customers too.

What is the scope of the Empower Foundation nowadays?

We just provide fundamental help and knowledge to those who need it.

When we started 30 years ago, people would ask us why we were supporting prostitutes by teaching them English. We responded that if that

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was the case, AUA and the British Council had supported prostitution much longer than us. We just believe that people have the right to choose the best path in life. It’s about getting the right information before making life decisions. We aim to build confidence and empower. Nowadays they don’t need these services so much as they have easy access to the internet on smartphones.

Have you seen any change to Thailand’s sex industry over the course of those 30 years?

Not really. For every sex worker who retires there is a new one. But the new generation can be smarter and do it as a second job. Even without higher education they can make as much money as doctors, so why not?

They still want to have a good life.

They want a home, car and money for the family just like anyone else.

I have seen many sex workers live happy, successful lives and start new businesses with their savings. Interview by Monruedee Jansuttipan This Is Us Museum, 57/60 Tiwanon Rd., Nonthaburi, 02-526-1294, www.empowerfoundation.org

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by Kathy MacLeod kathymacleod.blogspot.com

BK Magazine Friday, March 4, 2016

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cover story STREETS AHEAD A wave of new developments with an eye for the city’s most exciting names in food and drink are once again making Thonglor the go-to street for a good time out. By Bonnie Sananvatananont

The Commons

Rocket X

Lady Brett

Beam

72 Courtyard

72 COURTYARD WHAT IS IT? From new f&b player the Membership Group, this slick, open-plan mall is half Sathorn Soi 12 relocated and half fresh nightlife experiences. Like The Commons, you'll find acres of concrete, plants and steel, with as much space devoted to communal courtyards as to the venues themselves.

WHERE TO EAT Lady Brett

Not just a replica of what’s being done over on Sathorn, the new Lady Brett moves the brand forward thanks to the arrival of Opposite Mess Hall’s former head chef, Jess Barnes. The menu retains the barbecue focus while throwing in a few of Barnes' signature tapas-style small plates with a heavy focus on veggie dishes to go with all that grilled meat.

02-635-0405, www.ladybrett.com

Touche Hombre

Rocket X

The fourth branch of the chic brunch and coffee spot comes in the form of a quick “grab and go” pit-stop, focusing on quality takeaway coffee. The food menu has also been condensed to suit the express style, including bagels, croissants and other breakfast pastries. Some open-air seating is also available for those who aren’t as keen to eat on the go.

Beam

Joining late-night neighbors Badmotel (across the street) and Mellow (next door), the club offers a more minimal, warehouse-style experience that keeps things raw, casual and loud. You'll also find Asia’s first "body kinetic" dance floor that shakes vibrations into dancers' feet—meaning you'll literally be able to feel the rhythm inside you as you dance.

02-635-0404, www.rocketcoffeebar.com

02-392-7750, www.facebook.com/beamclubbkk

WHERE TO DRINK

COMING SOON

UNCLE

The moody speakeasy lounge has also made its way over from the upstairs of Sathorn’s Lady Brett, serving up sophisticated craft cocktails alongside refined bar food. As ever, expect it all to be served in a sexy lounge setting, in keeping with the tone of its original branch.

Set to open in a few month's time are: large openair beer garden Beer Belly, vibey jazz bar Evil Man Blues, Hong Kong's Chinese bao expert Little Bao, and New York's spanish tapas and cocktails specialist Toro.

02-635-0406, www.avunculus.com

Melbourne’s hipster dining bible Broadsheet called this Australian-born Mexican restaurant “ironically cool, laid back, and heavily inspired by the Latino street-art culture of Los Angeles.”

Opens in late March. 061-713-0083, www.facebook. com/Touche-Hombre-Bangkok

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Q&A with Jared O'Brien, Managing Director at Sapparot Group What is it with Thonglor right now?

Bangkok’s a city full of people that love being spoilt with options without having to go through much effort to get them. With the new community malls opening, Thonglor is now becoming a perfect hub for that—you can spend a whole day, from morning to night, in this two-block vicinity and not get bored.

Do you think there will be clashes between neighboring new malls?

Not really. Each one has its own unique concept and vibe. If anything, it just helps to promote the area overall and brings in more customers.

Do you think the rise of community malls will have an impact on independent stores in Thonglor?

If your brand is strong enough, you will be able to survive no matter where you are. Yes, it does mean that competition is very strong, but that only forces you to stay at the top of your game and, frankly, that’s good for everyone.

Address: between sois 16 and 18, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor)

BK Magazine Friday, March 4 , 2015

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avenue

Ma Maison

Supanniga

Health Kick Supanniga

Siam Spring

These healthy Thai dishes are the best excuses for you to visit Bangkok’s hottest new openings GAENG LIANG GOONG SOD

MOO CHA MUANG

The dish: Unlike other creamy curries, this dish is packed with veggies and doesn’t have any coconut milk. The soup still has plenty of body however, sitting somewhere between clear and creamy, and holds a unique peppery, aromatic flavor.

Why it’s healthy: Just some of the goodies included in this dish are angled loofah, pumpkin, baby corn, lemon basil and ivy gourd­­­­­­­­—all packed with vitamins and fibers. Studies have also shown the dish helps prevent inflammation.

Get it at: Praya Dining’s sister restaurant Siam Spring Bistro, which specializes in ancient Thai food.

The dish: The sour garcinia cowa leaf makes this Eastern Thai specialty different from any other curries you may have tasted. Supanniga’s version carries a generous amount of well-cooked leaves and tender braised pork.

Why it’s healthy: Garcinia cowa leaf has antiinflammatory and anti-bacterial qualities that can help prevent the risk of cancer.

Get it at: The new Supanniga on Sathorn Soi 10, whose edgy decor blends symbolic references to Isaan's silk-weaving traditions and industrial touches like corrugated steel.

1/F, Natural Place Suite, Sathorn Soi 1, 087-777-3555

28 Sathorn Soi 10, 02-635-0349

MIANG PLA TOO

TAM KAOPOD (CORN SOMTAM)

The dish: Like other miang (basically veggie wraps), this dish comes with Thai mackerel as its star, leafy veggies like lettuce or cabbage, and other accompaniments like shallots, peanuts, fresh chili pepper and some rice noodles. The highlight, though, is the well-balanced complex sauce Why it’s healthy: First, mackerel packs plenty of protein and minerals like omega 3 that help decrease the risk of heart disease. The fresh, raw veg are also packed full of fiber and vitamins.

Get it at: Nai Lert Park Heritage House’s Thai restaurant Ma Maison, located amid the antiquated home’s beautiful garden.

The dish: This twist on the classic Isaan staple, somtam, sees sweet corn used instead of raw papaya, resulting in mellower flavors and a satisfying crunch.

Why it’s healthy: Sweet corn is rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene and lutein, which are especially good for your eyes. Corn also contains certain B vitamins and vitamin C, as well as magnesium and potassium. Som tam is also a great salad alternative with no creamy dressing—just ask your server to go light on the sugar!

Get it at: Thonglor’s latest somtam spot, Tam Thonglor, on the second floor of The Taste community mall.

2/F, The Taste Thonglor, Thonglor Soi 11, 091-874-4999

4 Soi Somkid, Phloen Chit Rd., 02-655-4773

Tam Thonglor

Brought to you by Bumrungrad International Hospital

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Bumrungrad International is the first Asian Joint Commission International accredited, multispecialty hospital located in the heart of Bangkok, Thailand. Founded in 1980, it is one of the largest private hospitals in Southeast Asia, with 580 beds and over 30 specialty centres. Bumrungrad International offers state-of-the-art diagnostic, therapeutic and intensive care facilities in a onestop medical centre. www.bumrungrad.com

BK Magazine Friday, March 4, 2016

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cover story

Soul Food 555

Q&A with Varat Vichit-Vadakan, Co-owner of the Commons Why did you choose Thonglor for The Commons?

The Commons

Meat & Bones

Firstly, I’m a native to Thonglor and have always loved this area. But more importantly, Thonglor is a forwardthinking, modern and affluent area. I felt that the people of Thonglor would be ready for this new kind of dining experience.

What makes The Commons different from other community malls?

Xiao Chi

Peppina

Roast

THE COMMONS WHAT IS IT? Good food takes center stage at this new loft-like, open-plan community mall from Varat and Vicharee Vichit-Vadakan, the siblings behind Roast cafe. The ambitious project works kind of like a food court, only a really, really good one. Diners can order their favorite dishes from the various food kiosks to dine at the central communal area before heading upstairs for dessert and shopping.

WHERE TO EAT Barrio Bonito

Established about eight years ago on Koh Chang, Barrio Bonito quickly earned itself Tripadvisor's no.

1 restaurant spot on the island. Co-owner Mariana Villalobos Torres, a self-taught chef from Mexico City, turns out authentic native dishes on a short menu that rotates daily. Usual offerings include burritos, tacos and queso (cheese fondue) with different fillings and toppings like homemade chorizo, slow-cooked pulled pork, beef and lamb.

092-331-5203, facebook.com/BarrioBonnitoBKK

Egg My God

From the people behind Baan Ying Cafe & Meal come these fun, easy dishes all focusing on one ingredient, egg. Try the cold angel hair pasta with truffle and chive oil, shiitake and salted egg yolk (B250), salted egg cheesy fried (B160) and their version of steak and egg (B490) that places flavorful marinated Australian tenderloin on a bed of cream cheese scrambled eggs. For dessert, they also incorporate salty egg yolk into the baked custard cream (B90).

Meat & Bones

The most buzzed-about barbecue opening since Smokin' Pug is all about ribs—and pretty much ribs alone. There are two options: the standout eighthour-roasted beef ribs (B480) and six-hour-roasted pork ribs (B280), both cooked in a smokehouse and

It’s safe to say that Bangkok has loads of community malls—but you won’t find Starbucks or McDonalds around here. We focus on bringing together experts from different fields into a sort of upscale farmers’ market. Every store is hand-picked and specializes in only the best of one thing. If you want coffee, you’ve got a kiosk dedicated to the best of it. Walk a little further and you’ll get the best of Mexican food, or Thai food, and so on.

Do you think there will be a clash between the community malls? slathered with the in-house recipe of rubs and barbecue sauce.

081-933-7143, fb.com MeatandBonesBangkok

Peppina

The ever-expanding Napoli-style pizza specialist (also found on Sukhumvit Soi 31, Tha Maharaj and in Sriracha) continues to dish out some of the best and most authentic pizza (from B350) in town. Chef Paolo Vitaletti sets the bar high with his tangy dough, pillow-soft crust and delicious San Marzano tomato sauce.

02-119-7677, www.peppina.asia

Roast

The business that had a big hand in kick-starting Bangkok’s brunch craze serves all-day dishes like crab cakes with eggs Benedict (B360), corned beef hash (B280), and a sinfully rich strawberry waffle (B260). Other meals are represented on the menu too, such as lunch (burgers) and dinner (steak frites B890, roast chicken B480). Thanks to carefully-sourced beans roasted in house, thecoffee here is excellent.

02-185-2865, www.roaskbkk.com

Soul Food 555

The folks behind the perpetually popular Soul Food Mahanakorn’s new venture spotlights comforting Thai bites, some of which are turned into burgers: the Risky Chicken (B250) wraps up a meal of somtam with fried chicken in a Conkey’s brioche bun, while the Khao Soy Cowboy (B259) sees pulled pork in khao soy curry mixed with sweet potato and mustard pickles— ferociously fiery with a satisfying crunch from the crispy egg noodles. If the whole thing screams Brooklyn, it may come as no surprise that Soul Food also supplies some of these dishes to hip New York hangout Baby’s All Right. www.soulfoodmahankorn.com

Xiao Chi

Bao & Buns’ spin-off introduces Bangkok to yet more varieties of Chinese street food, this time mostly from the mainland, like dan dan egg noodles (B140) and grilled pork (B180) from Szechuan, and Shanghai-style grilled beef (B200). Of course, you can still expect a variety of bao buns, including the traditional braised pork belly bao (B130) and the delicious Xi-an burger (pan-fried bao with chopped lamb shoulder, B180).

Competition is always scary, but it’s mostly a good thing. Places like 72 Courtyard may have a similar concept to us, but it just means that people are becoming increasingly interested in this sort of dining and shopping experience, and that’s always good news.

02-185-2497, www.facebook.com/xiaochishop

WHERE TO DRINK The Beer Cap

Unlike its sister venue, Brew, The Beer Cap focuses on niche craft beers, both on tap and by the bottle.

When we last visited, there were six beers on tap: BrewDog Punk IPA (B160/260 per pint/half-pint), Holgate (B220), Chainbreaker White IPA (B240), Epic Escape IPA (B220), Epic Mid Mountain mid ale (B220) and Limburgse Witte (B140/240). Bottles are categorized by style (not country of origin like at Brew) and cover brands like Hitachino, La Trappe, Rogue and Chimney.

02-185-2517, www.brewbkk.com

ALSO CHECK OUT Upstairs, you’ll find the Plant House florist shop, Mahajak sound equipment store and Treasures vintage fashion store, as well a new Absolute Yoga studio.

Q&A with Nita Tejapaibul, owner of Treasures (1/F, The Commons) Why did you choose to open your shop in The Commons?

Since this is my first shop, it gives me much more security than being a standalone. I don’t have to worry every day about getting customers because the mall itself always attracts plenty of people. I love the concept of this mall—it’s very much a community. You can buy a coffee from Roots and tacos from Barrio Bonito and have it all served upstairs in my shop. Everything’s shared around here.

After closing, all the store owners sit together and we catch up over a round of drinks. It’s like one big family.

Address: 335 Thonglor Soi 17, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thong Lor), 089-152-2677. thecommonsbkk.com 8

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cover story THE MAZE WHAT IS IT? This mall sticks closer to the format of old-style community malls, bringing together both chain restaurants and unique independent stores in a four-story open-air dining and shopping space.

Expect cuisines from Japan to Italy to eventually fill up the still-opening building. Meanwhile, the rooftop garden serves as a perfect chillout spot for catching late-night city views.

WHERE TO EAT Mocking Tales

Mocking Tales

Specializing in ice-cream-based desserts, this cafe rolls out a long list of funky-looking treats inspired by fairy tales and classic fiction. Try the Lord of the Rings-inspired Inferno Mountain (B380) which comprises three scoops of ice cream topped with brownies and rice krispies inside a chocolate upside-down cone, topped with raspberry sauce and flambed with orange liqueur.

083-386-6992, facebook.com/mockingtales

Sendo

Noonkotsi

The Japanese sushi bar is all about rolls, including the highlight salmon saikyo roll, unagi foie gras roll and unagi cheese roll. Other must-try dishes include salmon sashimi with ponzu sauce and snowfish grilled in soy sauce, all served at affordable prices.

This cafe focuses on Korean-style shaved iced desserts, topped with your selection of strawberries, bananas, chocolate and various other toppings. Also on the menu are honey toast dishes and coffee, all to be enjoyed with plentyof open-air seating.

063-175-1599, fb.com/sendosushithonglor

on.fb.me/1R3pAeP

Ferraro Ristorante

ALSO CHECK OUT

This restaurant serves up classic Italian dishes with an added Asian-fusion twist. Expect dishes like salmon steak with spicy tom yum sauce, fried chicken drumsticks in teriyaki sauce, linguine pasta with spicy squid ink sauce and plenty of other east-meets-west combos.

On the third floor, you’ll find the new Madis Hair Salon (081-753-7337) a chic new spot for a pampering haircut while overlooking Thonglor.

094-789-2619, facebook.com/ferraroristorante

Address: 148 Thonglor Soi 4, 088-222-4226. www.facebook.com/mazethonglor

SHOPS Statement (Thonglor Soi 11, 02-003-6973) is a multi-label brand selling clothes from both imported cult bands as well as fresh local names.

Knock BKK (3/F, 333/1 Sukhumvit Soi 55, between Thonglor sois 15 and 17, 081-375-6625) is a threestory building selling wares from Nike, Adidas, Rebook and more, while nearby Indigo Indian (2/F, Blue Dye Cafe, Sukhumvit Soi 36, 083-714-5333) focuses on Thai handcrafted products with an emphasis on accessories and home decor.

Rosemary

Rabbit Hole

SO WHAT ELSE IS NEW? RESTAURANTS Argentinian-styled steakhouse El Gaucho (Eight Thonglor, 088-721-3088) recently opened its third branch on Thonglor, while across the road sits TV chef Madam Tuang’s French and Italian comfort food restaurant Rosemary (G/F, The Taste, Thonglor Soi 11, 02-712-5998). New Japanese choices come in the form of Hamakatsu (The Taste Thonglor, 235 Sukhumvit Soi 55, 02-7127843), the first foreign outpost of Japan’s legendary tonkatsu restaurant, and Iron Chef Table (1/F, The Taste, Thonglor Soi 11, 092-7687723), the restaurant spin-off of the TV cooking show. Around the corner, Hunts Eatery and Bar (159/10 Sukhumvit 55 Thonglor 7-9, 095-464 -4611) serves American-style gastro food, and down on Sukhumvit, Broccoli Revolution (899 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-662-5002) dishes out meatfree comfort food.

NIGHTLIFE As ever, Thonglor remains one of the hottest spots for Bangkok’s affluent drinkers, as proven by Rabbit Hole (125 Sukhumvit Soi 55 [Thonglor], 081-822-3392), a charming speakeasy bar run by two veteran bartenders from the Diageo World Class. The street also recently welcomed the new home for the molecular cocktail specialist Myst (171 Thonglor Soi 10, 080-770-9800) and Seen Space’s sci-fi concept bar addition, Bon Bon (Seenspace, 251/1 Thonglor Soi 13, 02-185-2378).

For more chilled-out options, check out Dusk (Thonglor Soi 13, 096-860-7690), an easygoing rooftop bar neighboring Wanderlust , and international craft beers and hearty burger-joint Black Beer’d (9:53 Art Mall, 124 Sukhumvit Soi 53, 091-769-2640).

CAFES Sweetery (3/F, The Taste Thonglor, Thonglor Soi 11, 081-172-1472) offers Aussie-inspired desserts from soft-serve cones to French toast; the cozy Warm Wood Café (137/1 Thonglor Soi 10, 02-714-9974) brings out all the cafe staples from desserts to coffees; Dandelion (919, Sukhumvit between Soi 49 and 51, 085-145-3181) specializes in hearty dessert and breakfast dishes plus monthly baking workshops. Around the corner, Toby’s (68/1 Sukhumvit Soi 38, 02-712-1774) is a photogenic spot for all-day Australian breakfast staples, specialty coffee and cold-pressed juice, while Once Social Bar & Café (308 Thonglor Soi 10, 084-777-7322) also serves all-day brunch and dessert, including their highlight egg waffles and homemade ice cream. For a healthier option, Organika (6/F, Piman 49, Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-665-1899) combines a botanical spa with an organic restaurant dishing out nothing but health-focused food. Away from the desserts and brunches, Thonglor has welcomed the minimal Chinese teahouse air seating. Cha Panya (26/1 Sukhumvit Soi 59, 094-550-4659), Seven Suns (1/F, Parklane, Sukhumvit Soi 63, 085-6642616) tea specialist selling brews and tea-making equipment, and the imported coffee beans specialist Triple (41 Sukhumvit Soi 59, 094-405-6964).

Chalee Kader, owner of Knock BKK, Beer Bridge, Badmotel, Holy Moly and Surface.

“Thonglor used to be a bunch of old restaurants that couldn’t renovate because the rent prices were already high. Now, with the addition of these trendy new places, the whole area is g et t i n g a reva m p. D e s p i te t h e competition, in a way it benefits every shop with all the traffic coming back in. I hope things will keep growing this way so people can spend time in this area rather than in malls.”

PROPERTY

Want to live in one of the city’s most well-heeled areas? Here’s what it’ll currently cost you.

Under B20,000 Thru Thonglor

Swanky-looking real estate on the New Petchburi end of the street and with rental that’s just about affordable.

Rooms start at B17,000. Contact 02-319-7000, thruthonglorcondo.com

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B20,000-40,000 Ivy Thonglor

Imposingly designed high-rise property in the sweet-spot between soi 11 and 23.

Room rates start at B28,000. Contact www. ivythonglor.com.

Over B40,000 CV12 The Residence

A concrete and blond wood mid-rise right behind Bangkok Prep.

Room rates start at B50,000. Contact

081-647-3044

To buy Alcove 10 Thonglor

Perfectly located on the road connecting Ekkamai and Thonglor, not far from hot spots like Unfashion and Dark Bar. Sells at B7.6-7.8 million for 1 bedroom units.

Contact www.alcovebangkok.com

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ADVERTORIAL

Mediterranean Sole Camper’s 2016 collection carries on the brand’s cool, internationally loved style.

Camper makes shoes for people who other people like.

They’re cool shoes. Comfortable shoes. Shoes that you can never have too many pairs of because they go so well with so much.

Rifling through the pages of Camper’s latest spring-summer collection and it’s more of the same: nice, soft, supple-leather creations that seem to say, “Wear me!

Feel my lovely soft sides and cushioned sole! Take me out to parties and be embraced into conversation by everyone else!”

The brand comes from Mallorca, a sexy little Mediterranean island off the coast of Spain, and this heritage guides a lot of Creative Director Romain Kremer’s thinking for his new collection: picturesque villages, cr ystal clear waters, sun-bleached cliffs— you know the stuff. So, for your shopping pleasure, here are some of the highlights from Kremer’s latest batch of footwear beauties:

UNISEX

MENS

DUB: Sock-like fit, flexible construction, lightweight and all the rest of it.

But what really matters is that shape. So chic.

DEIA: These perfectly formed pieces of all-cork-upper goodness are what happens when Camper does smart.

DUB

DEIA

A N D R A X T: T h e e ve r y d ay sneaker to take your ever yday sneaker game to the next level.

MATEO: Chunky soles are hot right now. But it helps even more if that sole is attached to a shoe which looks the bomb.

DUB

DUB

MATEO

WOMENS KAROLINA & FISS: What says creative ingénue better than a popping pair of pumps like these?

MARTA

MARTA

KAROLINA

MOTEL: Old-school sneaker meets new-school tech in these cute little examples of boy-look brilliance.

LEA: In the words of Oscar Wilde, “In every way the visible personification of absolute heal pump perfection.”

MARTA: We saw. We wanted.

LEA

LEA

KAROLINA

BELUGA: Clinical laboratory slippers inspire these little beauties, apparently. Consider us checked in.

KO B A R A H : C o l o r f u l , s e x y, slinky—they’re the signature of the collection and guaranteed to get you noticed for all the right reasons.

PORTOL: Positive proof that terrycloth can indeed be sexy.

FISS

FISS

PELOTAS

PELOTAS: The icon of Camper’s range is available for the first time as a sandal this season. Love!

Camper Spring-Summer 2016 collection is available at Camper stores 1/F CentralWorld, Atrium Zone, 02-613-1551. BTS Siam/Chit Lom M/F, Terminal 21, 02-10803861. BTS Asoke/MRT Sukhumvit 2/F Central Chidlom. BTS Chit Lom 2/F, IKON @ Siam Square One, 090-908-3337. BTS Siam

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Jols

By Monruedee Jansuttipan

VIETNAM

Sky High Lao Cai, the mountainous province in Northern Vietnam that’s home to eco-tourism hot spot Sa Pa, has just welcomed the world’s longest three-rope cable car system. Measuring 6,282 meters, Fansipan Sa Pa cost B6 billion to construct and takes tourists from the Muong Hoa Valley up to the 3,143-meter peak of Fansipan Mountain, also known as the “Roof of Indochina.” For better or worse, that means what used to take a challenging two-day trek is now reduced to a 15-minute cable car ride. Aside from the stunning views at the summit, the base is also home to a faux-European complex called Ga Di Trap Trio that consists of shops, restaurants and cafes.

PHUKET

Gone Baba In mid-March, Phuket Town will welcome another museum dedicated to the local baba heritage. PeranakanNitat Museum (095-257-7264, www.fb.com/ peranakannitat) occupies a stately building dating back to 1907, which once housed Standard Chartered bank, and dedicates itself to the unique culture that permeates the Strait of Malacca, including Penang, Singapore and parts of Indonesia. Tours are organized eight times per day.

Visitors must message the museum on Facebook prior to their arrival to book a spot.

Entrance fee B190.

CHIANG MAI

Know Your Noodle Taking a break from hot new cafes for just one week, Chiang Mai has welcomed Kadnomsen (061-265-0002, www. fb.com/kadnomsen), a retro restaurant all about kanomjeen (rice vermicelli). It’s run by Kree Thanapakiratithakol, the owner of the tiny boutique hotel Qi 68, who’s taken over an old wooden house on the same Santitham Road and filled it with woven fabrics and other old-school markers. The place is all about Chiang Rai-style kanomjeen, made using recipes from Kree’s mother. What makes it stand out from Chiang Mai-style kanomjeen is the thicker soup and the use of sun-dried fermented bean sheets. They also serve green curry and Southern-style crab curry, plus local treats like khao kan jin (steamed pork blood rice) and mouth-watering desserts like cold purple sangkhaya, which gets its color from butterfly pea leaves.

HUA HIN

One Night Only Having taken over the grandiose Hotel de la Paix, the recently opened SO Sofitel Hua Hin is now offering a pretty tempting package deal. So Sundae gets you two nights for the price of one on all room types, with prices starting at B3,100 from now until Mar 31. When checking in, all guests also get a free sherbet ice cream sundae, available in fruity flavors such as cantaloupe, pineapple, lychee and watermelon, as well as chocolate.

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

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REALLY THAI

Sawanbondin

Coro Field

Singha Park

The Good Life

Escape the tourist trail and discover these incredible organic and sustainable farming experiences around Thailand.

Pun Pun

CHIANG RAI Singha Park

CHIANGMAI Pun Pun

RATCHABURI Coro Field

Good for: Picking freshly grown fruit and veg before biking around the vast acres of fields blooming with colorful cosmos flowers. Other highlights include their nine-story-tall zipline tower, rock climbing wall and even an onsite zoo that’s home to giraffe, zebra and longhorn African Watusi cows. Farm-to-table enthusiasts should head over to Bhu Bhirom restaurant, which serves up delicious dishes using ingredients grown on the farm.

Good for: Those who love getting their hands dirty. This “center for self-reliance” collects seeds from Thailand and elsewhere and distributes them to the local area. Visitors are welcome to take part in outdoor workshops that include organic gardening and building your own home using sustainable materials like adobe, straw and bamboo. Don’t forget to bring home some of their homemade products such as nut butters, seasonal herbal teas, and rice husk charcoal soap.

Good for: A healthy and educational one-day trip touring the field’s massive greenhouse, planting and picking your own vegetables, buying and eating the organically grown produce and partaking in DIY workshops to bring souvenirs home. Their signature Hokkaido milk soft serve and creative desserts are two very good reason to stop by their cafe. And don’t forget to sample their farm-grown Japanese melon—you’ll definitely want to bring some back with you.

The site: 8,000 rai of land makes it the biggest farm in the country, growing tea and golden trumpet flowers. The few structures that are there take on a faux-European barn theme with red walls and white rafters, while Chiang Rai’s dramatic mountain range stretches out in every direction.

The site: From vegetable patches to open-plan adobe huts for practicing yoga, the community farm provides a luscious but intimate environment for guests.

The site: This cute, Japanese-style agro tourist spot painted mostly in white brings minimal style to Thai farming, keeping a cozy, contemporary feel thanks to naturally treated woods and large windows to bring the outdoors in.

Stick around: Architectural masterpiece the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) is just a 15 minute drive from the park. Also don’t forget to stop by Melt in Your Mouth cafe, which offers freshly brewed coffee and a wide list of homemade desserts.

99 Moo 1, Chiang Rai, 053-172-870. www.fb.com/SinghaparkChiangrai

Sawanbondin Good for: Taking a tour around the farm to pick flowers while learning more about organic farming techniques. And don’t miss the pottery workshop where you can create your own clay tea cup and sip their delicate-flavored herbal teas. You’ll also be able to cook your own food using vegetables grown in the homestay’s garden (it’s complimentary).

The site: This family-run farm in Chiang Rai specializes in growing a wide array of flowers and plants, from chrysanthemum to bael fruit, using chemical-free methods. The rustic architecture embraces classic and modern Thai touches, from thatched roofs to concrete walls.

Stick around: Drive the scenic route to discover the most amazing campus in Thailand, Mae Fah Luang University. And don’t forget to stop at deceased Thai master painter Thawan Duchanee’s Black House Museum—a sinister yet beautiful reminder of his work.

Stick around: It’ll take you one hour to drive to Chiang Dao, Thailand’s “Little Tuscany” known for its pristine national parks and local wines.

Po.5, Mae Taeng, Chiang Mai, 081-470-1461. www.punpunthailand.org

Daradalay Banndin Farm Good for: During this genuine “farm stay” experience, you’ll spend several days getting your hands dirty with the harvesting of baby carrots, strawberries, green oak leaves, passion fruit, rice and plenty of fresh produce before calling it a day under the stars in one of the on-site cabins.

The site: A local family runs these 20 acres of rolling hilltop farms, opening their doors to give the public a taste of the slow life and the perks of sustainable living. Take your pick between three cabin styles on offer for overnight stays, all of which are designed to bring you as close to nature as possible.

Stick around: Pop over to nearby Chiang Dao’s Makhampom Art space that promotes local theater, dance and music performances.

Interactive activities are always taking place throughout the week, including painting workshops, clay making and photography classes.

189, Chiang Dao, Chiang Mai. 089-499-2878. www.daradalay.com

Stick around: Don’t forget to check out Suan Pheung’s major landmark, Baan Hom Tian, where you can savor exciting local dishes such as kaeng som pak kood and dok kajorn omelet, prepared the traditional way.

117 Pha Pok Rd., Ratchaburi. 092-569-4791. www.fb.com/corofieldTH

Rai Pluk Ruk Good for: Local experts conduct various agricultural and art workshops every weekend and public holiday (check out the schedule on their page in advance as the activities are not fixed) at this vast green space in Ratchaburi. After learning about the process of growing vegetables without the use of anychemicals, you’ll also get to plant your own pot plants to take home.

The site: The sustainability-obsessed Thai couple behind Rai Pluk Ruk are the same people who run Bangkok’s Anothai vegetarian restaurant.

At their organic farm, you’ll be greeted by wide open fields with barely any buildings obstructing the countryside landscape Stick around: Also check out Blooms Orchid Park, a lush 100-rai plot of land blessed with an abundance of exotic plants and rare orchid species.

130 Moo 1, Petchakasem Road, Ratchaburi. 032-389-521. www.fb.com/thaiorganicfood

171/12 Moo 4 Soi 1, Chiang Rai. www.fb.com/Sawanbondin.farm

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avenue

MUSEUM

Heritage House The century-old Nai Lert Park Heritage Home recently opened its doors to the public after two years of renovations. Situated next to Swissotel Nai Lert Park on the bank of Saen Saeb canal, the house originally belonged to Phraya Bhakdi Noraset—better known as Nai Lert, one of Thailand’s most renowned developers. Now the openplan structure serves as a museum, offering a glimpse of traditional Central Thai architechture, with two connected teak houses surrounded by a sizeable balcony and a painstakingly landscaped garden. Inside, there’s an exhibition room dedicated to Nai Lert’s life, along with various business-related and personal collectibles. The museum opens to the public in the presence of the curator Thu-Fri at 11am, 2pm and 4pm. B500 per person. If you miss those times, do note there’s also a new Thai restaurant, Ma Maison, set inside the traditional house. 4 Soi Somkid, Phloen Chit Rd., 02-655-4775/6, Open Thu-Fri 11am, 2pm and 4pm

BEAUTY

HOME

FASHION

Nature’s Fragrance

Dans le Jardin

Botanical Shades

Local skincare and spa product brand Hohm (the Thai word for “fragrant”) is known for its all-natural skincare and spa products that contain no traces of toxins or parabens that could irritate the skin. New products worth trying include Body Contour: Anti Cellulite Massage and Milk Bath Oil, which promises you smooth, cellulite-free thighs (B500/100ml); and De-Stress: Relaxing Massage Oil, which claims to release muscle tension if you happen to suffer from office syndrome or exercise strenuously (B550/100ml). Available at Oleaf Organic (Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-119-7277) or online at hohmskinandsenses.com.

Following IKEA, Marimekko and Hay, the latest in the conveyor belt of European decor brands to hit Bangkok is France’s Fermob, whose specialty is technicolor outdoor furniture.

Looking to transform your backyard into something out of a Wes Anderson film? This is the place. Here, functional design meets bold block coloring. Garden seating is the main attraction: you can mix and match chairs and tables from various collections and in some 23 pop-art-style shades like fuchsia, aubergine purple, carrot orange, pastel nutmeg and the candy-like lagoon blue. F Building, Crystal Design Center, Praditmanutham Rd. www.fermob.com

The ‘70s bohemian trend continues to sweep Bangkok’s fashion scene this summer, this time in the latest collection from work-to-party-wear brand Canitt, dubbed Shades of Meaning.

Creative director Khanidtha Daroonnate uses delicate botanical flower paintings as the main prints in workwear items like pencil skirts, sleeveless dresses, crop tops and jumpsuits in chiffon and satin. Freshen up with citrusy oranges and greens in pieces like the sleeveless wide-leg jumpsuit and orange suede pumps. Available at Park Lane, Sukhumvit Soi 63 (Ekkamai), 093-494-1665. IG: Canitt_Official

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avenue SHOPPING

Classy Kicks Guys and girls are ditching the dress shoes for smart sneakers.

Here our top picks for a day-to-night look. By BK Staff

Men

Women

Calf-skin sneakers in black, Jil Sander, B22,500

New York Champion glitter in black, Keds x Kate Spade, B3,290

Dior Homme S/S 2016

Alexander Wang S/S 2016

All white sneakers, Pull&Bear, B1,690 AF1 MID (GS) in black, Nike, B5,800

Tubular Radial Core in black, Adidas, B5,290

Suede Superstar sneakers with metallic cap toe, Adidas, price TBA

Shiny plimsolls, Zara, B1,690

Black hi ankle sneakers in black, Shoes Like Pottery, B4,500 Stan Smith navy, Adidas, B4,690

Pastel pink sneakers, Common Projects, B12,500

Essentials Shoes Like Pottery available at www.onionbkk.com Jil Sander. 1/F, Central Embassy, 1031 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-160-5796/7. BTS Phloen Chit

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Nike and Common Projects available at Knock BKK, 3/F, 333/1 Sukhumvit Soi 55, between Thonglor soi 15 and 17, 081-375-6625

Adidas available at Carnival, Siam Square Soi 7 (next to Hard Rock Cafe), Rama 1 Rd., 02-2524215. BTS Siam

Zara and Pull&Bear, 2/F, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd. BTS Siam/Chit Lom

Keds x Kate Spade. M/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 091-557-8072. BTS Siam

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RESTAURANT

Chocolate Trail Asoke brunch institution Chu has finally expanded to rising Sathorn. The second branch sees a warm space tucked inside Trinity Complex, a short walk from BTS Chong Nonsi. Starting off from a dessert shop specializing in churros (B100) and hot chocolate (B120-140), Chu has long since established itself as an allday dining spot. Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef/owner Chirayu Na Ranong whips up breakfast favorites like eggs Benedict (B250-290), as well as crab linguine (B280), chicken pesto salad (B220), tuna melt sandwiches (B170) and barbecue pulled pork burgers (B320), using artisanal products from baker Maison Jean Philippe and butcher Sloane’s. Beyond the churros, don’t miss the signature chocolate lava (B220) or the peanut butter variation (B240). To drink, choose from the signature hot chocolate (B120-140) or coffee from Roots (starting at B80).

Trinity Complex, Narathiwas Soi 3, 02-6368685. BTS Chong Nonsi

RESTAURANT

CAFE

NEW CHEF

Flip Flop

Fitness First

To Share

All-day breakfast spot Slappy Cakes adds more fun to your average eggs Benedict (B250-280) and sandwiches (B230-280) by letting you whip up your own DIY pancakes on the built-in griddle at your table. Originally from Portland, Oregon, this chain has since expanded to Japan, the Philippines, Singapore and Malaysia before finally arriving in Thailand. First they’ll give you handy squeezers filled with pancake batter in flavors buttermilk, chocolate or peanut butter (B150 each), to which you can add toppings like mango, banana, pineapple (B50 each), cheddar cheese, chopped bacon (B45 each), chocolate chips, walnuts and almonds (B50 each), as well as spreads like peanut butter, raspberry jam and lemon curd (B70). 1/10-11 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-662-4887. on.fb.me/1T3o9DA

One of the pioneers of Bangkok’s clean eating scene, Absolute Fit Food started out as a delivery service back in 2012. Now this food arm of the Absolute wellness empire (also known for their yoga and Pilates studios) has branched out to two all-dining cafes at The Portico Langsuan and The Commons Thonglor. The kitchen serves low-calorie recipes that they say are high in nutrients while free of chemicals, trans fats, artificial coloring and refined sugars. Expect rotating dishes both for dining-in and to-go including the superfood-heavy spicy zucchini quinoa salad and green curry quinoa risotto (both B280). The guilt-free blueberry chocolate tart (B180) is made using spelt flour instead of wheat, with cocoa powder, blueberry, almond and coconut oil. 2/F, The Portico, Langsuan Rd., 081-371-3721. BTS Chit Lom. www.fb.com/AbsoluteFitFood

Sofitel So’s rooftop restaurant Park Society has had a refresh, unveiling a new menu that eschews fine dining in favor of more casual, shareable bites. There’s a new chef de cuisine, too: Joost Bijster, formerly of Savelberg and a number of Michelin-starred restaurants in his native Netherlands, serves up “modern Western cuisine” that spotlights imported seafood, cold cuts and cheeses.

You can still expect delicate plating in dishes like burrato di bufala with heirloom tomatoes (B590), pan-seared Tasmanian salmon with white asparagus, leek, fennel and hollandaise sauce (B990), and Iberico Belotta with fresh melon (B850). Park Society, 29/F, Sofitel So Bangkok, 2 Sathorn Rd., 02-624-0000. MRT Lumphini. www.sofitel-so-bangkok.com

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blends COCKTAILS

Hot Shots What should you be drinking in 2016? Bangkok’s leading bartenders tell us the biggest booze trends sure to sweep the city. By Vasachol Quadri Track 17

Il Fumo

1. Spirit-forward Cocktails

4. Gin Will Still Dominate

We are so glad to see the molecular madness that’s consumed Bangkok’s cocktail scene for the past 2-3 years give way to more bars putting top ingredients before fancy techniques. Right now is all about “spirit-forward” cocktails, a category that refers to drinks mixed with spirits, liqueurs, bitters, vermouth and port wine—think Old-Fashioned and Negroni rather than mojito and mai tai.

Last year was a big year for gin in Bangkok. Going beyond Bombay Sapphire and Hendrick’s, bars have welcomed new bottles from the likes of Hanami, Fords, Monkey 47 and G’Vine, while Ashley Sutton’s locally distilled Iron Balls is also worth getting excited about. Importers are always bringing in more labels, and we’re expecting Teens of Thailand to have more company in terms of gin-specialist bars.

“Many Thai people love drinking whiskey but not in cocktails, preferring to mix it with soda or water. However, spirit-forward classic cocktails are starting to appeal to whiskey lovers who are learning that cocktails are not all about adding juice.” —Suwincha “Chacha” Singsuwan, Rabbit Hole

“Gin will continue its rise. People don’t care so much about the bar anymore; they are willing to go anywhere to try a new bottle, leaving it up to the bartender whether to mix it classic or customize it. Gin cocktails like Negroni will continue to be reinterpreted as bartenders mix things up with different gins and vermouth to keep customers guessing.” —Kiattikoon “Toon” Auengkum, Marcel

2. Forgotten Classics For every Martini and Margarita, there’s a Sidecar and Sazerac— vintage cocktails unfairly consigned to the scrapheap. Whereas the likes of Bricks & Bones and Rabbit Hole are focusing more on sprucing up tried-and-trusted cocktails, Il Fumo and Track 17 are making it their duty to shine a light on drinks that haven’t taken off on our shores yet.

“Once people try all the classic cocktails, we’re also seeing them ask bartenders about forgotten classics, too. For example, after drinking an Old-Fashioned, they will ask for a Sazerac. That also requires bars to improve themselves and stock the right ingredients, like rye whiskey, which even up until now has been pretty scarce on the scene.”

—Suchada “Fahbeer” Sopajaree, Hugo

3. Low ABV Cocktails It’s true that we’re probably a year behind many of the global trends. But what’s trending internationally right now are low-alcohol cocktails which tend to use liqueurs like Campari and vermouth as the base spirit. Locally, Il Fumo has introduced a signature low ABV (alcohol by volume) list featuring the likes of Fancy Vermouth Cocktail (Mancino Bianco vermouth, Bols cacao white, Ilegal mezcal joven and cardamom bitters, B390). At Negroni Bar in Peppina (The Commons, see page 8), you can find Negroni derivatives as well as Americano, a low-alcohol choice said to be the forefather of Negroni as it mixes Campari with sweet vermouth and soda— replace the soda with gin youget Negroni. The best thing about this trend? You won’t have any trouble trying two or three in one sitting.

“I think low-ABV cocktails will be hot this year.

It’s now trending worldwide but I hope that it will be a thing in Bangkok soon too. After 8pm is the time to drink strong cocktails, but how about after work? I think low-ABV cocktails are perfect for that.” —Sebastian De La Cruz, UNCLE and Touche Hombre

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Rabbit Hole

Teens of Thailand

5. Proper Tonic A good gin deserves a good tonic. Thankfully, we’re no longer restricted to just Schweppes. Last year saw Smiling Mad Dog importers bring in East Imperial tonic water in two flavors, and next up they’ll bring in Fever Tree and another brand yet to be confirmed.

With specific pairings, the classic gin and tonic can only get tastier.

6. Bourbon and Rye When it comes to brown spirits, 2016 belongs to bourbon and rye whiskeys. The newly opened Bricks & Bone claims to be Bangok’s first bourbon bar, with its bartenders hand-carrying some pretty esoteric bottles into town. Owing to the resurgence of forgotten classic cocktails (see #2), the likes of Il Fumo and Vesper will also put a heavy focus on these spirits.

“I think the next big spirits are bourbon and rye. This is because there are more and more people going back to brown-spirit-based cocktails. At Vesper, we focus more on gin but actually we have a good reputation in whiskey-based cocktails too. That keeps us bringing in more and more bottles of these two whiskeys this year.”—Wareewan “Oil” Yodkamol, Vesper

7. Tequila and Mezcal Referred to alternately as “tequila’s poor cousin” or “tequila on steroids,” mezcal hasn’t quite taken off here in Bangkok as it has globally. In fact, we’d just be satisfied with more bars taking tequila seriously. And it seems we’re starting to get that wish, in the form of new restaurants The Mexican, which also calls itself a tequila bar, and Barrio Bonito, which does some wonderfully spicy (and affordable) tequila-based cocktails. It looks like the best is yet to come, too, with the imminent arrival of Touche Hombre (see cover story, page 6), a Melbourne-born brand known as much for its Mexican street eats as its expansive tequila selection

Bricks & Bone

8. More Specialist Bars We’ve just welcomed Teens of Thailand (gin) and Bricks & Bone (bourbon), now we can’t wait to see more single-minded bars spring up in unlikely spots, whether the poison is rum, tequila or Absinthe.

Essentials Bricks & Bone. 2 Rama 9 Soi 41, 091-040-5174

Vesper. 10/15 Convent Rd., 02-235-2777

Rabbit Hole. 125 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (between Thonglor Soi 5 and 7), 081-822-3392

The Mexican. Rajah Complex, Sukhumvit Soi 2, 094-3300390

Il Fumo. 1098/2 Rama 4 Rd., 02-286-8833

UNCLE. 2/F, Lady Brett, 149 Sathorn Soi 12, 02-635-0406

Track 17, Touche Hombre, Barrio Bonito and Negroni Bar. The Commons, 355 Thonglor Soi 17, 02-101-4525

Hugo. 39 Ekkamai Soi 10, 02-713-1292 Marcel. Sathorn Soi 10, 02-6353533

Teens of Thailand. 76 Soi Nana (Charoenkrung), 0814433784

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blends Free Style

Five new bars in Bangkok offering unique twists on classic cocktails.

Rabbit Hole The buzz: This speakeasy-style bar serves craft cocktails amid a hip, Thonglor vibe— ideal for a pre-dance drink.

The decor: Step inside this three-story shop-house and you’ll find a charming, dimly-lit, narrow bar with a huge rose gold booze rack behind a marble bar. With its plentiful bar seating, the first floor has all the atmosphere of a serious drinking establishment, while upstairs sees more quiet corners for group gatherings—and an extra bar, so you won’t be kept waiting too long.

The slowly-changing lighting adds to the intimate mood.

Rabbit Hole

The bar: Two veteran bartenders—Suwincha “Chacha” Singsuwan and Naphat “Yod” Natchachon—man the space, cranking out classic drinks with technical twists and infusions. There’s plenty of variation on the spirit shelves, with a good number of Scotch, American and Japanese whiskeys available by the glass or bottle.

Try this: The Chivas Mojito (B320) uses Chivas Regal 12 as its base instead of rum for a complex twist that’s augmented by unique honey notes.

125 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (between Thonglor soi 5 and 7), 081-822-3392. Open daily Tue-Sun 7pm-2am. Facebook: Rabbit Hole

Havana Social Teens of Thailand

The buzz: This new Soi 11 arrival is hidden away down a little alley almost opposite Above Eleven. Locate the old phonebooth (labeled “Telefono”) and call ahead for the night’s access code.

The decor: This is Cuban pastiche done right, with shuttered windows, spare lighting and crumbling walls giving off a convincingly clandestine feel. The room is carefully decked out with mid-century bric-a-brac sourced around town, with thematic details in the form of colorful cement tiles, a faded mural and even a dangling clothes wire.

The bar: To go with the Cuban theme, rum dominates the shelves along with some other handpicked brown spirits. The cocktail list is split into two sections: classic and experimental, dubbed Pre- and Post-Revolution as well as signature Daiquiris, featuring creative flourishes courtesy of Joseph Boroski.

Havana Social

Bricks & Bone

Try this: Aside from the crafty cocktails, here you can also enjoy rare-find bottles of Scotch like The Glenlivet 15 Years (B550) and The Glenlivet 18 Years (B750).

Sukhumvit Soi 11, call 087-066-7711 for the entrance code, Open daily 6pm-2am.

Facebook: Havana Social

Teens of Thailand

The buzz: This small but stylish bar down in Chinatown is all about the drinks.

The decor: Hidden behind an ominous wooden door, this small, dimly-lit room is like something Wong Kar Wai might conjure up. Much of the shop-house’s original architecture remains, with vintage Thai furniture scattered around the place, encouraging interaction more than sticking to your seat.

Chicon

Brought to you by Chivas Regal Extra

BB Pernod BK630_Mar4_16.indd 21

first gin bar—and it shows with the vast selection of bottles. Alongside good old Beefeater 24, you’ll find bottles like vwthe must-try Hanami gin (the house pour). Niks changes his drink list every day, which means you might also get new spirits, too.

Try this: The special Pineapple Express (B300) is a tropical drink that mixes Beefeater 24 with pineapple-lemongrass syrup, fresh lime, basil and absinthe.

76 Soi Nana, Charoen Krung Rd., 081-443378, Open Tue-Sun 6pm-midnight. Facebook: Teens of Thailand

Bricks & Bone

The buzz: Need to skip Sukhumvit sometimes? This Rama 9 bar claims to be Bangkok’s first dedicated bourbon bar and also does a solid list of BBQ dishes.

The decor: The long, narrow black box looks more like a cafe than a bar with its standard industrial decor: white-washed bricks, vintage bulbs, custom-made wood furniture and piping. The central bar shows of the extensive range of booze.

The bar: Run mainly by Nitikorn “Tao” Thanataweekool and Kanisorn “Top” Pookavanuch, bartenders from Vice Versa and the Drinks Academy, the bar focuses heavily on bourbon and plenty of rare-find bottles. Aside from the five signature cocktails based on bourbon, the bartenders also specialize in forgotten classics that are rare in Bangkok. Alternatively, you can have them up whip up something to your liking.

Try this: As this is probably the only bar in Bangkok that serves hot cocktails, make sure you try their suitably named Hot Rod (B300), which combines Chivas Regal Extra with brown sugar, spice syrup and fresh herbs.

2 Rama 9 Soi 41, 091-040-5174, Open daily 5pm-midnight. Facebook: Bricks & Bone

Chicon

The buzz: If you’re a fan of Sathorn’s casual European-style bar Le Cafe Des Stagiaires, head up to the third floor for more proper bistro bites and even more cocktails.

The decor: The 50s modernism apparent in the wood-panelled walls and the smooth, curved lines of the chairs is muted by elegantly-dressed tables complete with stemware and tablecloths.

The bar: Not only is the food menu completely different from the first floor bar, but the restaurant also has its own petite craft cocktail-centric bar manned by Nopadon “Bom“ Thansongla (of Vice Versa fame), where customers can enjoy custom-made drinks. For those who don’t know where to start, there are also six signature cocktails based on various different spirits.

Try this: Monsieur Bom (B340) is a classic Old-Fashioned-style drink based on Chivas Regal Extra and sweetened with vermouth, port wine and a dash of bitters with torched cinnamon, anise, clove and orange peel on the side.

2/F, Le Cafe des Stagiaires, 142/21 Sathorn Soi 12, 062-445-0445. Open Tue-Sat 7-10pm. Facebook: Chicon

The bar: Manned by Niks Anuman-Rajadhon (Vice Versa Cocktails and Drinks Academy), this bar claims to be Bangkok’s

BK Magazine Friday, March 4, 2016

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2/29/2559 BE 4:20 PM

bites CAFES New in Town

TASTE TEST

Convenience First We put seven ready-to-eat food items from 7-Eleven and Family Mart to a head-to-head blind taste test. By BK Staff MATCHA TEN 1

3 4

4

6

5 2

The crisp, white Matcha Ten serves desserts from all the group’s Japanese outlets alongside all-day breakfast items: egg skillet (duck eggs with chorizo, salami, mushrooms and cherry tomato, B185) and waffle with grilled bacon and eggs (B125) as well as healthier choices like granola chia yogurt (B160). Most treats are made in-house including ice cream (B85/ scoop), which can be served with pancake souffle (B240), and shaved mineral-water kakigori (B240), which comes with a delicious chestnut cream. To drink, try the elderflower Italian soda (B85).

66 Sathorn Soi 6, 02-632-2559. Open daily 9am-10pm. BTS Chong Nonsi

2

6

7

1

ABSOLUTE FIT FOOD CAFE

5 7 3

Family Mart

Item 1

Pork krapao

2

Smoked sausage

3

Shrimp shumai

7 Eleven

Broken, mushy rice with a slimy salty stir-fry of fatty pork meat. This really coudn’t have gone any worse. (B30) Darker in color and denser in texture, but the taste is almost exactly the same.

(B13)

A microwaveable knockout! Top marks to 7-Eleven for the full-grained rice and sneaky kaffir lime leaves. (B30)

TIE

Ham-cheese croissant

The croissant is a bit denser, the ham a bit thicker and the melted cheese no less artificial. (B27)

5

Salapao moodang

The Coca logo on the package doesn’t stop this from being one sad, dry bun that all but swallows up the small dollop of bright red, overly sweet paste. (B18)

6

Onsen egg

Betagro clearly has the goods— brighter and richer yolk, with just the right level of doneness. (B18 for 2 eggs)

7

Shrimp roe onigiri

BK PICK!

The expected taste of normal cheap sausage, with the bouncy quality and overly smooth texture reflecting the high fat volume. (B10) Made popular by last year’s blockbuster BK movie Freelance, 7-Eleven’s shrimp shu- PICK! mai is a safe bet. You can even see some traces of shrimp in the coarse filling. (B21)

From the pale dough sheets to the too-perfectly-blended mushy and starchy filling, this dumpling seriously fails to deliver.

(B21)

4

Verdict

TIE

As delicious sober as it is at 3am in the morning. This thing is as tasty as it’s possible for B30 food to be. (B27) The big bao comes packed with a filling BK that’s not quite the shocking red we PICK! expected. We don’t know what those coarse bits are in the moist brown pork mixture, but we like them. (B27)

BK PICK!

The slightly plastic-y smell to the yolk of this CP egg is a bit scary, but smother it in the accompanying Japanese sauce and seaweed bits and you’ll never notice. (B12)

Made by Prantalay, this rice ball BK is thinner with a good balance of PICK! rice and filling. Though there’s no mayo in the roe, the vinegar-seasoned rice gives it an overall satisfying flavor. (B25)

The thick rice ball doesn’t contain anywhere near enough roe, which comes so slathered in mayo that it’s nothing but sweet. The unseasoned rice is dry and the seaweed quickly becomes chewy. (B27)

A clear winner here

The clean food concept has now expanded with all-day dining cafes at The Portico Langsuan, serving up rotating health-boosting dishes including the superfood-heavy spicy zucchini quinoa salad alongside green curry quinoa risotto (both B280) and guilt-free desserts like blueberry chocolate tart (B180). On top of freshly squeezed juices (B150), tea from TE is available at B150/pot.

2/F, The Portico, Lang Suan Rd., 081-3713721. BTS Chit Lom. Open daily 7am-7pm

There’s no separating these sausages

Freelancers know best WARM WOOD CAFE Our palates are tied. it’s little wonder this is such a late-night guilty pleasure.

7-Eleven has come a long way

Health first

Prantalay all the way

Overall Verdict: There can be only one winner, and that’s 7-Eleven, whose consistency makes it the go-to convenience store for pre-payday bites.

The homey interior is dominated by warm brick work, worn wood and pot plants. In addition to cafe staples like eggs Benedict, served here with pulled pork (B240), chef Chanachai Chansamak (previously of Sirocco) does familiar all-day eats like tuna salad (B240), ebiko cream pasta (B280) and ribeye steak (B850).

There’s an equal focus on desserts, with pastry chef Praparporn Leosirikul (also formerly of Sirocco) whipping up delicious desserts like the chocolate souffle (B320) and—our favorite—the airy churros (B220) accompanied by spot-on yuzu and chocolate dips. Aside from coffee and smoothies made using house-made frozen yogurt, you can also sip on season-themed cocktails (B240) and sangria made with white or red wine (B300 per glass/B800 per jug).

137/1 Thonglor Soi 10, 02-714-9974.

Open Tue-Sun 9-1am

Note: All items are reheated as suggested on the packages.

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bites

OPEN DOOR

Chicon A traditional French bistro opens upstairs at Sathorn Soi 12’s busiest bar.

The buzz: Sathorn’s most-buzzing casual European-style bar, Le Cafe Des Stagiaires, has turned its second and third floors into a separate French bistro offering proper dining and even more cocktails.

The decor: The wood-paneled walls and smooth, curved lines of the leather chairs add a touch of ‘50s modernism, muted somewhat by elegantly-dressed tables complete with stemware and tablecloths. Like downstairs, the walls are lined with artful brica-brac, from photographs by renowned documentary photographer Martin Parr to retro beer signs.

The food: French chef Aurel Termini creates fine traditional food with a few twists, some brought about by his attempts to source as many local ingredients as possible. Highlights from the com-

24

pact menu include his take on poulet ecrevisse (B510), which comprises a king prawn and prawn-meat-stuffed chicken with mashed green pea and bisque, and pork feet (B620), which are cooked for six hours and then wrapped with mushroom in pork belly fat, served with Marjoram sauce and herbs. Other picks are the tenderloin with flavorful “Burning Love” (B680), a Danish-style mashed potato that’s seasoned with shallots, chives, apple cider and truffle, as well as the pan-fried sole fish with white wine sauce, herbs and homemade parsley oil (B750).

For dessert, there are French classics like chocolate entremets (mousse-filled chocolate cake, B250) and St. Honore (three small cream puffs on a base of choux pastry, B250) The drinks: Not only is the food menu completely different from the first floor bar, but the restaurant also has its own petite craft

cocktail-centric bar manned by Nopadon “Bom“ Thansongla (of Vice Versa fame). Tell him what sort of drink you like and he'll make it, or choose from six signature cocktails based on various different spirits. We like Monsieur Bom (B340), a classic OldFashioned-style drink based on Chivas Regal Extra whiskey and sweetened with vermouth, port wine and a dash of bitters with torched cinnamon, anise, clove and orange peel on the side.

Why you should care: Like the downstairs bar, the restaurant has a friendly charm even when packed out, making it a top pick for a classic French meal with friends. Natcha Sanguankiattichai and Vasachol Quadri

2/F, Le Cafe des Stagiaires, 142/21 Sathorn Soi 12, 087-207-3077. BTS Chong Nonsi

BK Magazine Friday, March 4, 2016

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2/29/16 6:32 PM

Gallery Pizza

Wantong Cafe

Omotcheese

NEW AND NOTED

Thai Tales Tiny Wantong Cafe (Chatuchak Weekend Market, Section 26 Soi 1/4, 088-885-7751) does delicious things with traditional Thai desserts and drinks. The highlight here has to be the black Nila cake (the owner's take on coconut cake that incorporates jasberry rice and carbon powder, as inspired by khao neaw tuadam (a sticky rice dessert)—fluffy, sponge-y and fragrant.

Another pick is the pandan custard Kaya tart (B120), a crossover between kanom bueang (Thai crepe) and pandan custard bread. To go with the theme, they serve Pimpilalai (Thai herbal drink with brown sugar syrup and soda) and San Tri Petch (iced watermelon Earl Grey tea, both B95).

Galleria Italiana Sathorn’s new pizza delivery service, Gallery Pizza (404 Sathorn Soi 11, 020-411-044, www.gallerypizzabkk.com), stays open till 4am. Italian-American co-owner/chef Shane Greene spent several months learning to make pizza in Italy. His recipe of 72-hour

TABLE TALK

Cafe Parisien fermented pizza crust, made using 100-percent imported ingredients, results in a satisfyingly puffy crust. Basics like a margherita start at B285 while the likes of the New Yorker (American pepperoni, Italian sausage, garlic, basil and mozzarella) come in at B410. They also deliver wine, starting at B590. Delivery charge is B40. As the space is shared with Sathorn 11 Art Space, walk-ins are also welcome.

So Cheesy The latest gooey dessert offering in town comes from Japan’s renowned cheese region, Hokkaido. Combining a dense but mellow cheesiness with a little chewiness, the tiny Omotcheese (G/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-631-1350) cheesecakes sit somewhere between mochi and cheesecake. A pack of six tiny cakes sets you back B730 with options of original, strawberry and chocolate flavors. Find the kiosk on Siam Paragon’s ground floor, opposite Grand China restaurant. Natcha Sanguankiattichai

Glasshouse at Sindhorn, 130-132 Wireless Rd., 02-6509993 For a taste of traditional French bistro cuisine, look no further than this glass-fronted eatery located in front of the Sindhorn building. Cooked up in consultation with French chef Herve Frerard (ex-Le Beaulieu, which previously came #1 in our Top Tables before its closure), the menu features old-guard dishes like scallops in nantua sauce with celeriac puree and beef tartare with fries. For best value, try the three-course set lunch menu.

Exclusive privileges for Citi credit cardmembers.

Get complimentary dessert when spend 1,000 THB or more /sales slip (Offer valid on Mon-Fri lunch and Sat lunch and dinner) Today – 31 Aug 16

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

Simply click “Thailand” and then “Gift voucher”

BK Magazine Friday, March 4, 2016

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2/29/16 6:32 PM

bites & blends market + Events

Osha Ceresia

LATIN FOOD FESTIVAL This Mar 5 from 1-6pm, Ceresia hosts the second round of the Latin food festival, featuring food from Ecuador, Mexico, Peru, Argentina, Spain and Venezuela (B100-200/dish). Free entry.

Tisco Building, Soi Sala Daeng, 098-251-4327

BANGKOK RESTAURANT WEEK From Mar 17-23, DiningCity, Citibank and Sanpellegrino presents two-pricepoint deals at 30 Bangkok restaurants.

Reservations open on Mar 11 while Citibank card members can book from Mar 4-11. Restaurant list includes Attico, Indus, Le Du, Osha, Gianni, Utage and Mei Jiang. www.dining.city

Advertise your business with us ­ starting from B6,000 Email sales@asia-city.co.th or call 026249601

Sway Sra Bua

ZEFFER CIDER: MEET THE BREWER Zeffer’s 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

VAN VOLXEM WINE DINNER EVENT Sra Bua presents a special five-course dinner, paired with organic wine from German vineyard Van Volxem on Mar 22 from 6pm onwards. Owner and winemaker Roman Niewodniczanski will chair the night. B2,900

Credit card/Debit card payment accepted

Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok, 991/9 Rama 1 Rd., 02-162-9000. BTS Siam

Bricks & Bone

BRICKS & BONE

Wine Pub

CHEF GILLES REINHARDT

Oskar

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.

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

Bangkok’s first dedicated bourbon bar opens on Rama 9.

2 Rama 9 Soi 41, 091-040-5174

OSKAR BISTRO’S 5TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY On Mar 10 from 9:30pm, Oskar celebrates its fifth anniversary with an open bar on selected items and music from Alex Fischer, Fred Canal, Nemo Cools, Orbs & Zen and Mikus.

The Beer Cap

24 Sukhumvit Soi 11, 02-255-3377. BTS Nana

HOME BREWING WORKSHOP WITH LALIART

Viu

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.

Laliart Cafe hosts a pour-over coffee-making workshop this Mar 16 from 10:30am-12:30pm at Rikyu By Boy Tokyo. B2,000/person including snacks and coffee bean samples.

THE BEER CAP Thonglor’s den of craft beer at The Commons community mall.

355 Thonglor Soi 17, 02-185-2517

Sukhumvit Soi 24, 081-868-9891

New Venues Track 17

TRACK 17 A real-deal cocktail bar themed after the legendary Oriental Express.

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

BTS Ratchadamri

Avra

The Commons, 355 Thonglor Soi 17, 02-1014525

AVRA The authentic Greek flavors Bangkok has been waiting for.

G/F, Lotus Hotel, Sukhumvit Soi 33, 02-2582877

THE EASIEST WAY TO BOOK YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS 26

Find out more at www.chope.co/toptables

BK Magazine Friday, March 4, 2016

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bites FOOD REVIEWS

Teddy’s Bigger Burgers HHHH American. G/F, Gateway Ekamai, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-004-1065. Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Ekkamai. www.fb.com/teddysburgersth. B-BB

Teddy’s, a Hawaiian burger franchise which has since spread across America and to a few spots in Asia, deals in the kind of no-nonsense, greasy, piled-high then glued-shut-with-cheese burgers which those of us who didn’t grow up in the States could only ever look at in films and dream of one day tasting. Think about the “big kahuna” scene in Pulp Fiction and you’ll have a Teddy’s burger in your mind.

They arrive at your table in little greaseproof paper pouches to catch the various fatty drips of cheese, sauce and meat juice, as well as with a plate and knife and fork to counter the inevitable collapse of the bun. The taste is everything you might hope for: tangy, indulgent, salty, juicy, guilty, good. For an extra B60, you can up the size of the beef patty in your cheeseburger (standard price B265) from 5oz (142g) to 7oz (200g)—one of a number

Flour Shoppe HHHH Western. G/F, Central Chidlom, Phloen Chit Rd., 081-826-8530. Open daily 11am-10pm. www. fb.com/flourshoppebkk.official. B-BB

Originally dessert-only, this compact cafe tucked in a corner of Central Chidlom started to serve all-day breakfast items last year. But it’s still the sweet baked goods that shine the brightest. The house-made Osaka cheesecake (B95) is one good Japanese cheesecake, fluffy and milky as it should be, with just the right amount of moisture. It’s perfectly fine on its own, but the accompanying strawberry cream sauce adds a fresh kick. We’re also satisfied by the waffles’ (B220) perfectly crisp outer layer, encasing a surprisingly moist interior.

The zesty lime cream tart (B95) is another winner. In fact, all of their baked items are fantastic, including the Southern-style

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.

of exhaustive customization options on the menu, and something we reckon is well worth doing since that beef is clearly the star of the show. Order it medium-rare (exactly how it comes) and the quality of the meat stands up perfectly to such light grill treatment. The only contentious thing about Teddy’s burgers is the bun, which is weirdly pale and tastes kind of like a doughnut. Not bad, but the last thing this burger needs is more richness. Elsewhere on the menu you’ve got fairly standard burger diner fare, none of which, from what we’ve tried, comes close to the effort they put into the beef burgers. The breadcrumbed fish fillet burger (B195) tastes straight from the pedestrian fast food handbook, as do the “grilled mixed sausages” (B130), which leave a trail of oil and burned bits on their plate. All of it tastes fine enough, but where the burgers give the impression someone’s put effort into them, this stuff feels more like out-ofthe-packet-and-into-the-fryer cooking.

Given the universal appeal of a good cheeseburger, we’re a bit surprised not to see Teddy’s busier on a Saturday night, especially since there’s no missing the open-fronted space with its mix of neon-lit ‘50s diner references and surf culture, right in the sweet spot at the entrance to the mall. If you’re ever in Gateway Ekamai and feel like skipping on the ramen, we reckon this one’s well worth a shot.

biscuit served with fried chicken (B165).

The sweet honey butter smeared on one side of the biscuit complements the slightly salty batter and the subtly spicy fried chicken. The only thing holding it back is the too oily and overcooked chicken. It’s a similar case with the English muffin burger (B165 for pork; B195 for beef). What comes between the perfect halves of the little, chewy English muffin is disappointingly bland: under-seasoned patty smothered with only a lightly flavored Thousand Island-like sauce. In addition to breakfast dishes like eggs Benedict (B225) and American breakfast (B275), the menu also features toasts, salad and pasta. While the cashew and bacon pesto spaghetti comprises al-dente pasta and nicelyflavored pesto sauce, the warm salad (B175) is a letdown. What’s supposed to be young kale is far too chewy, and the weird tasting vinaigrette makes for one oily, acidic dish. There were no other diners when we last visited, but we have to hand it to the place for its attentive and professional staff. If you stick to what it does best , you can get a solid if unspectacular breakfast at Flour Shoppe.

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

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2/29/16 6:42 PM

Leandro Godoi

now TUE Panda Eyes Bangkok’s about to welcome a whole bunch of adorable new friends this Mar 4 when the global art project 1600 Pandas makes its way through the city. Aside from being an amazingly cute photo op, these papier mache figurines aim to raise awareness for panda conservation, organized by French artist Paulo Grangeon and WWF Thailand. The pandas will hop between Sanam Luang, CentralWorld, Chong Nonsi Skywalk, BACC, Lumpini Park and various other spots before settling at Central Embassy for the main exhibition from Mar 24-Apr 10.

FRI Driving Lessons Paula Vogel’s award-winning, Off-Broadway hit How I Learned to Drive has been receiving gushing praise since the ‘90s, and this Mar 3-13, Bangkok theatre lovers can catch an adaptation of it by Spark Drama Studio at Jasmine City Building (2 Sukhuvmit Soi 23). Following a controversial love story between a confused young girl and her driving instructor, the play tackles issues of sexual abuse, incest and misogyny in a hard-hitting, dramatic performance.

SAT Butterfly Effect Things get fantastically eerie at Olga Volodina’s latest multimedia exhibition, Metamorphosis: Black Butterfly, in which she explores the fragility of human existence through the use of harsh black and white tones on powerfully sculpted, sometimes vulgarly juxtaposed, models. Running at Yenarkart Villa Art Gallery (69 Soi Prasat Suk, Yen Akat Rd., 02-235-9800) this Mar 10-24.

FRI Summer’s Here This Mar 8, expect plenty of highpitched screaming when 5 Seconds of Summer, the boy-band heartthrobs from Australia, take the stage at Impact Arena Muang Thong Thani (99 Popular Road). The band will perform pop-rock sounds from their latest album Sounds Good Feels Good including hit singles like “She Looks So Perfect” and “Amnesia.”

Tickets are B2,000-7,000 from Thaiticketmajor.

THU Teenage Kicks House and disco beats will fill up Live RCA this Mar 10 when French DJ Cherokee takes over the decks with sounds from his latest EP, Teenage Fantasy. The DJ best known for his funky remixes of Daft Punk’s “Something About Us” and Mika’s “Make You Happy,” will be joined by locals Slomororo and Sir Walt for what’s looming as a long, sweaty night.

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now NIGHTLIFE

LIVE MUSIC

Kirk Degiorgio

Last Dinosaurs

Rich White Ladies

Alle Farben

DJ PARTY

ALLE FARBEN & YOUNOTUS

House and deep house from DJ Just Curious with an open bar for B399. Mar 4, 8pm. Junker and Bar, 454 Suanphlu Soi 1, 085-100-3608.

The German tech and deep house DJs, whose hit "Supergirl" currently has 57 million views on YouTube, return to Bangkok. Mar 5, 9pm. Live RCA Bangkok, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 086-860-0808. Free.

KIRK DEGIORGIO

The British techno DJ and producer, known for his Detroit-influenced techno sets, returns to Bangkok. Mar 4, 9pm. Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661.

B350. BTS Thong Lo. RICH WHITE LADIES

The female rapper duo makes their Bangkok debut with their signature mix of electronic and hip-hop beats, with support from Powderpuff and the Go Grrrls team. Mar 4, 9pm. Live RCA Bangkok, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 086860-0808. B400.

TINDER BANGKOK PARTY

Ku De Ta teams up with the infamous dating app Tinder for the first ever match-up party, with night-long music from DJ Kaku, Mar 4, 9pm. Ku De Ta, 39/F, Sathorn Square, 98 Sathorn Rd., 02-108-2000. Free. BTS Chong Nonsi.

CONJOINED

The Dutch twins provide a night of quality house music with support from DJs Tom (Funky Gangster) and Maarten Goetheer. Mar 4, 10:30pm. Vogue Lounge, 6/F, Mahanakhon Cube, Silom, Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Rd., 02-001-0697. Free. BTS Chong Nonsi.

SKINNY DIPS WITH HUNNI'D JAWS

The monthly party dedicated to the best of electronic tunes, including future-garage, footwork, juke and experimental bass. This edition welcomes Brooklyn DJ Hunni'd Jaws, with support from DJs Stuart Nombluez and Will. Mar 5, 9pm. Badmotel, Next to J Avenue, Thonglor Soi between Soi 15 and 17, 02-712-7288. B180 (includes one drink).

TECH DANSE

Underground electronic DJs, including Zidov Akuma, Richoe, Ikono and Zomzii, throw a huge party at the bar-slash-art gallery. Mar 5, 9pm. Whiteline, Silom Soi 8, 087-061-1117. Free. BTS Sala Daeng.

THAIBREAK

Contemporary electronic music from DJs Tobi Neumann, Dana Ruh, Julietta, Pascal Feos, Domenic D'Agnelli and Zeek. Entry is free for ladies. Mar 5, 9pm. Ku Bar (Ku De Ta), 39/F, Sathorn Square, 98 Sathorn Rd., 02-108-2000.

B400. BTS Chong Nonsi.

THEATER DRACULA

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 Mar 6, 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 Dracula

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. Through Mar 7, 7:30pm.

Thong Lor Art Space, 58/14-15 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). B490.

HOW I LEARNED TO DRIVE

How I Learned to Drive

30

Paula Vogel’s award-winning Off-Broadway play follows a controversial love story between a confused young girl and her driving instructor. Performed in English with Thai subtitles. TIckets at www.peelthelimelight.com/tickets. Mar 3-13, 7:30pm. Jasmine City Building, 2 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-204-5888. B600.

Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra

classical MENDELSSOHN AND MUSSORGSKY

The Thai Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Alfonso Scarano and featuring violinist Pavel Sporcl, performs Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy's Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64 and Modest Mussorgsky's Night on Bald Mountain. Mar 4-5, 4pm. Prince Mahidol Hall, Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd. B100-500.

concerts 5 SECONDS OF SUMMER

The popular Australian pop-rock band brings songs from their latest album Sounds Good Feels Good to the stage, along with popular past singles like "She Looks So Perfect" and "Amnesia." Mar 8, 8:30pm. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4455. B2,000-7,000 from Thaiticketmajor.

LAST DINOSAURS + PANAMA

Australian indie music takes over the night when the indie rock band from Brisbane behind the successful 2012 album In a Million Years returns to Bangkok to promote their latest album, Wellness. They'll be joined

by Panama, known for their hit indie pop song "Always" with support from local indie acts Fwends and Gym and Swim. Tickets available at bit.ly/1W9XgLI. Mar 11, 7pm. Live RCA Bangkok, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 086-860-0808. B1,300.

gigs

Degaruda

THE WINDBREAKS 2

A night of live rooftop music with local bands Srirajah Rockers, Two Million Thanks, Haruguem Zaboy, Fwends, Wave and So and White Collar. Mar 5, 7pm. Wanderlust, 5/F, Nakiya Japanese Restaurant Building, Thonglor Soi 13, 086-655-5328. B250 includes one drink.

YAAN

The experimental music group perform their signature electronic twist on traditional sounds using various acoustic instruments such as sitar, violin, gu zheng and lap steel guitar.

Mar 9, 9:30pm. Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. B200. BTS Thong Lo. A NIGHT OF BLUES WITH YAMIN

A two-hour live blues set with the local guitar trio who combine elements of rock and country music into their sound. Mar 10, 10pm. Havana Social, Sukhumvit Soi 11, 087-0667711. Free. BTS Nana.

FEEDBACK

Local bands Plastic Section, Degaruda, Superhans and Stylish Nonsense perform live. Mar 12, 7pm. Thong Lor Art Space, 58/14-15 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). B200 includes two drinks.

LUCKY-SEVENTYNINE

Live performances from local alternative and indie rock bands Red Twenty, Plastic Section and Folk 9. Mar 13, 4pm. 1979 Vinyls and Unknown Pleasures, 4/F, Black Amber, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). B200.

MO NST ROUS V ICTOROUS AL B UM LAUNCH PARTY

Degaruda, the local punk rock, instrumental and pop band, celebrates the launch of their latest album with a full hour-long live set. Mar 5, 8pm.

Soy Sauce Factory, 11/1 Charoenkrung Soi 24, 061-835-6824. Free.

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ART

ALL THAT GLITTERS

BARE EXHIBITION

American photographer Adam Birkan presents his works capturing the economic disparity in Bangkok, Hong Kong and Singapore as part of his first solo exhibition in Asia. Mar 5 onwards. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833. BTS Surasak

A group of 20 Thai artists explore the spectrum of sexuality and beauty through a series of nude paintings. Mar 3-30. Hof Art Space, W District, Sukhumvit Soi 69-71.

BTS Phra Khanong

INSOMNIA

LA FORET AUX ILLUSIONS

A n n a b e l l e H e n d e r s o n p res e n t s h e r after-dark photography while wandering late-night hubs like Khao San Road. Mar 4-16. Hof Art Space, W District, Sukhumvit Soi 69-71.

A series of sketches on paper, canvas and wood taking inspiration from Celtic fairy tales and Thai folklore. Mar 5-31. Chomp, 63-65 Samsen Soi 1, 02-629-2026.

LUCID BEACH

THIS IS NOT A POLITICAL ACT

Singaporean artist Rizibe explores our simultaneous longing for nature yet growing separation from it through a series of prints, paintings and drawings. Mar 3 onwards.

RMA Institute, Room 238, 238 Sukhumvit Soi 22 (Sukhumvit), 02-663-0809.

Jirawut Ueasungkomsate's first solo exhibition questions the effect repressive powers can have on art for both the creator and viewers. The audience will be guided through a pitch-dark room and given a torch to view the 15 low-resolution portraits on display. Mar 4-Apr 3. WTF Gallery & CafĂŠ, 7 Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-662-6246.

BTS Thong Lo

PERRIER THE POSTER EXHIBITION

THE RESPECTABLES

Seven Thai artists present their drawings and paintings inspired by the French brand of mineral water. Mar 11-13. Bangkok City City Gallery, 13/3 Sathorn Soi 1, 083-087-2725.

Richard Mead depicts moments of power and respectability in our everyday lives through a series of vibrant, surreal paintings. Mar 1-28. Neilson Hays Library, 195 Surawong Rd., 02-233-1731.

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now SPOTLIGHT Parparhn Sirima Chaipreechawit, photographer

SALES & FAIRS

My favorite Thai artist is… Lolay Taweesak, the sketcher and street artist. He’s the first artist that actually made me want to spend money purchasing a piece of art. Each of his pieces are equally playful and powerful. Having worked with him, I also know that he is a very disciplined artist and has very specific methods.

My favorite art gallery in Bangkok right now is…

Bangkok City City Gallery. The curators have designed it with the intention of helping people understand and interact more with art. I love that the art doesn’t just stop at what’s exhibiting, but there are also artsy products you can buy as collector’s items.

My favorite recent art exhibition was… Bukruk Urban Arts Festival. It brought together local and international artists in galleries and spaces all around the city, and the artwork even extended onto the streets. I’ve had a lot of fun taking photos of them.

It was a great movement in the Thai art scene.

One thing I love most about the Thai art scene… there are more and more art spaces around Bangkok, meaning more new artists are getting noticed. This is also great for people who’ve been in the industry for a while, it makes them have to stay at the top of their game.

LOL Market

One thing I don’t like about the Thai art scene… the lack of value given to art. Sometimes you don’t need to be able to understand it or even like it, but you should give value to it. That’s what we’re still unable to do.

JAPAN KURASHIKI DENIM FAIR

LOL MARKET #7

Denim brands from the small Japanese town including Baistone, Betty Smith, DeeTa, Denim Closet, E, HighRock, Pallet Life Story, Senio and Tenryo Denim set up booths at this market for an exclusive sale. Mar 11-Feb 13, 10am. The EmQuartier, The EmDistrict, Sukhumvit Rd., 02269-1000. BTS Phrom Phong.

The seventh edition of this popular market comes under a 'Swinging '60s' theme bringing with it shopping stalls from over 160 brands. Mar 1213, 12pm. CentralWorld, 4, 4/1-4/2, 4/4, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-635-1111.

Free. BTS Chit Lom.

THAI CRAFT FAIR

The craft fair returns to help promote local handmade products from over 50 artisan groups. Shop for home decor, toys and other accessories. Mar 5, 10am. Jasmine City Building, 2 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-204-5888.

In the future, I want to see Thai artists… be able to live off art as a professional, stable career.

Japan Jurashiki Denim Fair

Thai Craft Fair

NEON FEST

Parparhn Sirima Chaipreechawit’s latest photography exhibition, Danse Macabre, captures the people of Kathmandu post-earthquake with an eerie maze-like quality. The exhibition runs from Mar 5-Apr 30 at the Kathmandu Photo Gallery (87 Pan Rd., 02-234-6700).

SPORTS

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 are also lined up. Open every Thu-Sun until Jul 1. Through Jul 1, 5pm. Lumphini Park, Rama 4 Rd.

OUT OF TOWN

RUN 2GETHER

10K THAILAND CHAMPIONSHIP

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 086-0695652. Mar 20, 5am. Lumphini Park, Rama 4 Rd. B200.

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.

ASICS CITY RELAY

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

This Mar 5-6 and Mar 12-13, the popular hippy beach party Baa Hop Fang returns, promising two back-to-back weekends of beach-side partying, eating and chilling out, all under the theme “Aloha Summer.” Throw on your most garish Hawaiian shirt and enjoy live music from Flure, Jetsett’er, Earth, The 38 Years Ago, Handmade and many more local bands. Away from the music, expect over a hundred booths selling chic and trendy clothing, plus food trucks and pop-up Instagram stores. See on.fb.me/1n17MJ8 for more.

5pm-11pm. Free entry. Welcome World Beach Resort & Spa, Pattaya

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Josiah Mackenzie

Colour Miles for Smiles

COLOUR MILES FOR SMILES

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

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

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INTERVIEW Walter Astrada, photographer

Argentinian photojournalist Walter Astrada spent 19 years working as a photojournalist for the likes of AP and AFP, during which time he documented everything from rioting in Africa to Haiti's cholera outbreak. Ten months ago, the three-time World Press Photo awardwinner set off for arguably his greatest adventure: a world tour on his Royal Enfield motorcycle. So far, his journey has taken him across Europe and Asia to Bangkok. Next month, he will host an exhibition dubbed The Journey at Cho Why in Chinatown (opening Mar 11) as well as a five-day photojournalist workshop, Craftmanship of a Reportage (Mar 14-18, B18,000). We spoke with him shortly after his arrival in Bangkok.

What initially inspired you take this motorcycle journey?

I wanted to travel. I mean, I wanted to continue to travel. With my job as a photojournalist covering places all over the world, often you would work but then have to leave before you really got to know a place. I just wanted more time to look around, more time to meet people and to understand.

Was there much planning involved?

For the first six months, yes. I had to. I had a plan to reach Vladivostok [Russia’s eastermost city] within six months. That meant crossing Siberia and Mongolia. I don’t think that would have been possible to cross in winter, so I had to stick to a rough schedule.

I’m trying to do a world tour, so the plan is to make it to South America. But before then I will spend a year in Southeast Asia, where I don’t need to plan quite so much. It’s also cheaper. I plan to run some workshops and make some money before l travel to Northern Thailand, Laos and Cambodia.

There’s a somewhat haunting quality to your photographs—sad yet beautiful. Is there anything in particular you’re trying to capture with this project?

I like to shoot daily life and the street. The daily lives of people. I feel like this is complementary to my career. In a way, it’s about getting back to where I was when I first got into photography, when I would carry a camera everywhere. Working professionally, I would always have a lot of interaction with locals, but I suppose I would be more influenced by what other people want-

ed—particularly what the news agencies wanted—rather than having the chance to explore one place, and capture the scenes there from daily life.

Do you have a favorite place so far?

Mongolia was very, very nice. Often there was nobody on the road—sometimes there are no roads, so you have to make your own, which is not so good for the bike. But I’ve been lucky with that, barring a couple of accidents. Georgia, Turkey, Tajikistan, Myanmar, Korea—all have been incredible. With Myanmar, I only wish I could have stayed longer. If you want to stay longer than 12 days, it’s expensive, so it ended up feeling a little rushed. I’d spent time in India before working, but this time I was able to see a completely different side.

So, the big question, how does Bangkok’s traffic compare?

Wow man. I came in from Mae Sot and then Sukhothai, and there was no-one on the road. Then once I hit Bangkok, it was two hours in traffic, even on a bike. But I had the same situation in Mongolia, where it was all open roads until Ulaanbaatar. I think all big cities are experiencing something similar.

That’s what you see in my photos, too; this contrast between open spaces and built-up urban areas. Interview by Carl Dixon

To help finance his journey, Astrada is selling prints from the trip as well as seeking collaborators. Find out more and follow his blog at www.walterastrada.com.

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now FILM Opening

LONDON HAS FALLEN (USA)

ME BEFORE YOU (USA)

Action. Secret Service agent Mike Banning (Gerard Butler) is ordered to rescue the U.S. President (Aaron Eckhard) after a terrorist attack leaves the world’s most powerful leaders in danger. Mar 3

Drama. A young woman (Emilia Clarke) struggling to make ends meet lands the job of being a caregiver for a wealthy paralytic man (Sam Claflin). Mar 3 HAIL CAESAR! (USA)

Comedy/Musical. The Coen brothers’ latest film is set in 1950s Hollywood.

When famous movie star Baird Whitlock (George Clooney) gets kidnapped while shooting his latest epic movie, his producer Eddie Mannix (Josh Brolin) must rescue him before the studio loses everything. Mar 3

Upcoming

INTERN WITH US!

ALLEGIANT (USA)

BANGKOK 13 (THAI)

Adventure. When Tris (Shailene Woodley) and Four (Theo James) go beyond the enclosed walls of Chicago, the only city they’ve ever known, in order to find peace, they are captured by a mysterious agency known as the Bureau of Genetic Welfare. Mar 10

Horror. Using her unique ability to see spirits, Pia unlocks the secrets at 13 locations around Bangkok to discover the truth about the horrors of her past.

Mar 10

KUNG FU PANDA 3 (USA)

Animation. After news spreads of a supernatural warrior growing stronger with every battle, Po (voiced by Jack Black) must cut short his long-awaited reunion with his father (voiced by Bryan Cranston) to train a village of fun-loving pandas into a team of kung fu fighters. Mar 10

(EDITORIAL, MARKETING AND ART DEPT.)

NEWS Call for Submissions The 20th Thai Short Film and Video Festival has officially called for submissions. Through May 31, the festival is accepting films across all genres under 30 minutes (documentaries can be longer). Entry is free and winners will be announced at the 10day festival set to be held at BACC in August. In previous years, the festival has showcased more than 50 local and international short films, proving to be a great coming together of film lovers in celebration of local talent and creativity.

You must be at least 18-years-old You must send in a cover letter and resume. Specify which department you are applying for.

Open to Thai and foreign nationals (for Marketing, Thai national only).

Internships are full-time, unpaid and last 3 months.

Visit www.thaifilm.com for the online entry form and more details.

Get all the latest events and restaurant openings from the free BK Now app

Candidates should be fluent in both Thai and English. Send your resume and a cover letter to jobs@asia-city.co.th BK Magazine Friday, March 4, 2016 341/4S.indd 1

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The office has a separate entry and is situated on the 1st floor (2nd floor for Americans) Available immediately.

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