BK Magazine 734 April 20, 2018

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Wakey wakey

BK MAGAZINE NO. 734 FRIDAY, APRIL 20, 2018. www.bkmagazine.com

Bangkok's tastiest morning meals

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page 3 4 cover story

Early Doors

What We’ve Learned

3 upfront

7 escapes

Golden Oldies

Middle Ground 10 avenue

12 blends

Drive Time

Natural Charm

That Masato has a bar upstairs Walk through the permanently booked-out omakase counter, up a thin staircase, and you’ll find Bangkok’s latest broody Japanese whiskey and sake bar. Budget about B300 for a Nikka Taketsuru single malt, or stump up B2,000 for some seriously good junmai daiginjo.

14 bites

16 BK Now

New in Town

On the Record

Who's in charge?

Managing Director & Publisher Andrew Hiransomboon Managing Editor Oliver Irvine Digital Director / Deputy Editor Carl Dixon Subeditor Mai Nardone Digital Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Digital Content Assistant Pakchira Bunphol Writers Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj, Dhipkawee Sriyananda Selley Junior Writer Kankanok Wichiantanon Art Director Vatanya Bongkotkarn Production Supervisor Komkrit Klinkaeo Graphic Designers Anunya Chobnitas, Wirankan Saiyasombut Photographer Poonsawat Suttama Video Designer Saranya Laowtrakul Videographer Nattapol Srisukh Junior Video Editor Pattanagorn Adirekkiat

Where to find us!

The Asia City Media Group

Advertising Director Wanida Akeapichai Sales Managers Tipkritta Chiraporncharas, Orajira Sukkasem Senior Sales Associates Tassanee Mahamad, Nattaya Bovornsettanon, Orakarn Laohakanjanasiri

Finance Manager Supaporn Bangmoung Assistant Finance Manager Anchalee Limkhamduang Senior Accountant Maneeya Kanthongdang Accountant Manita Bangmoung Admin Executive Yaovaluck Srisermsri Contributors Kathy MacLeod

Junior Marketing Executive Narabhutr Thaemsiri ASIA CITY STUDIO Managing Editor Dietrich Neu Associate Editor Sureepak Janyapat Senior Project Manager Chayanap Tongdadas Senior Developer Passzarkorn Youthasoontorn, Wasan Wangrach Project Coordinator Sirinart Panyasricharoen Assistant Art Director Ratchprapha Sunthornprasat Writer-Translator Tripop Leelasestaporn Junior Branded Content Writer Chakariya Cheewatara SOIMILK Editor Nathapong Suppavatee Senior Writer Rujiyatorn Choksiriwan Writer Theerada Moonsiri Brand Manager Onwara Sittirug Sales Associates Prawpraew Pairohg, Kornkanok Sriwaranant

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

That Bangkok’s got beef with Toh Former Silly Fools frontman Weerachon “Toe” Sattaying now makes a living producing cheap and tasty dry-age beef. He’s also converted to Islam, and last week generated some serious heat from Bangkok netizens after appearing to criticize Buddhists for worshipping statues. As a result, Toe issued an apology video, but not before Sek Loso threatened to beat him up.

Interns Sirada Nimcharoenchaikul, Marvin Schulz, Megan Leon Cover photo by Chissanupong Narmmoolnark

Asia City Media Group Chief Executive Officer Greg Duncan (gduncan@asiacity.net) Director Gretchen Worth (gworth@asia-city.co.th)

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

That Nine Inch Nails will play Bangkok Trent Reznor and co. have a date with Bangkok. Where? We don’t know. When? We don’t know. But we do know that this is the first time a Bangkok Nine Inch Nails gig has been muted since 2014, when their slated appearance in Pattaya was canceled by Dear Leader and his tanks. Turn to page 22 for more.

That the alternative to Abhisit is Abhisit He’s young, he was educated in places like Hogwarts, and he looks exactly like his uncle: he’s Parit “Itim” Wacharasindhu, the nephew of our former prime minister and Thailand’s latest wannabe political saviour. And no, it’s not nepotism. “I happened to be born in Mr Abhisit’s family, I didn’t choose it,” he told The Nation —and you just can’t argue with logic like that.

That 100 Mahaseth’s dedicating an entire dinner to pla ra The dinner of your dreams or the stuff of nightmares?

Charoengkrung’s nose-to-tail restaurant hosts a dinner dedicated to fermented fish and fish innards this Apr 28.

It’ll cost you B2,400 and charts about eight different courses. If you haven’t heard of 100 Mahaseth, it just won our Reader’s Choice Award for Bangkok’s Best New Restaurant, and was one of the highest new entries in Top Tables 2018.

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 ©2016 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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BK Magazine Friday, April 20, 2018

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upfront HOT OR NOT fb.com/unboxingwithgrandma

Hot: Old People

Not: Young people

From an unboxing Youtube granny to an octogenarian indie group (see right) to the oldest Ikea employee in the world, Bangkok has gone old-person crazy. What’s next? Prune kakigori? Tai chi done to pumping EDM remixes? Stay one step ahead of the gray trend by making your next brunch date at On Luk Yung (see page 4).

Hot: Malls

INTERVIEW

Not: Dinosaurs

Did you go to dinosaur planet to get chased around by a guy in a raptor suit or ride the Ferris wheel lower than all the surrounding buildings? If not, then too bad, because it closed on Apr 20, while its former site now waits the arrival of Em District’s latest expansion plans. Today Phrom Phong, tomorrow the world.

Hot: Los Angeles

Not: Brooklyn

Yen Akat’s newly opened rooftop bar, Cactus, takes its style cues from those sweeping, mid-century desert villas that L.A.’s rich and famous like to call home. That means succulents, rich woods and dusty firepits—no subway tiles or Edison bulbs. Could this spell the end for Bangkok’s Williamsburg-ripoff interiors? goo.gl/images/ZcVV4e

Hot: Eating Out

Not: Eating In

For a brief time there, Uber made Bangkok food delivery painless. It was quick, communicative, and had all the right restaurants. After a week of late deliveries and circular conversations with the Food Panda instant messenger, we want it back. Oh well, for now we’ll just have to get off the couch and check out some new restaurants—flip to page 11.

THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

On Apr 3, rock group Bennetty released their first track, “Jood Derm,” and instantly blew up on social media. It’s a heartening success story for a group that started late: the band’s youngest member is 65. They formed as a result of a Thai Health Promotion Foundation and Choojai and Friends Agency collaboration to encourage the elderly to realize their dreams. We caught up with Siri “Ray” Deelun, 69 (bass), Thitichai “Toom” Sawadwetch, 65 (guitar), Thanakorn “Chart” Jiasiri, 65 (drums) and 2nd Lt. Boonserm “Burm” Choochuay, 87 (mouth organ), to talk life and musical influences.

When did you start playing music?

Ri: I’ve played music since my military training during the Vietnam War era.

Toom: I’ve been performing since then too. I started playing professionally when I wasn’t even 20. I used to skip class to play music.

Chart: After I finished college, I worked as a traffic-planning technician with engineers from Germany. After I finished my contract there, I performed for 7-8 years, then went onto other jobs before returning to music finally.

Burm: I started learning the violin when I was about 15, but the school flooded so much I never took learning seriously. I then became a soldier.

I’ve been a soldier all my life. I fought in the Korean War. I play the saxophone as well. I taught myself the mouth organ.

How did you form the band?

Chart: The Thai Health Promotion Foundation were launching a campaign for the elderly, and they were auditioning for musicians. We submitted our profiles and they chose us based on our backgrounds.

What usually inspires your lyrics?

Ri: We have a producer helping us with the song writing.

Toom: I would love to write my own lyrics one day if we have enough support.

What do your children/grandchildren think of this?

Ri: They were surprised and also very proud. They keep bragging about me to their friends.

Burm: My children told me that I am now famous and I still don’t understand how.

Chart: They are very happy, like, wow!

Toom: They’re very proud of me. I’ve had people coming to film me at home, too.

What’s the craziest thing that’s happened to you on stage?

Chart and Toom: There are just too many things to say.

Ri: One time, a drunk guy requested a song. Then he wasn’t happy about the way we performed it, so he threw a glass at the stage.

Who are your favorite bands right now?

Ri: Vic Damone, Frank Sinatra and a lot of Spanish and Italian songs.

[Chart starts singing one of the Italian songs, “Santa Lucia”.]

Toom: Anything really, I just look on Youtube and listen to everything. I like

people like Steve Vai and Joe Satriani.

Chart: Mostly ‘60s-’80s era stuff. The Doors and The Beatles.

Burm: Any music, really. Whatever I played at restaurants to get tips.

Do you know if you have any groupies? Are you guys on Facebook?

Chart: I have Facebook but I don’t really know if we have any fans. I looked at the YouTube link but the comments are too small for my eyes.

Ri: We really can’t see something so small.

Can we expect to see your full album anytime soon?

Ri: Not yet, only singles. Our band is still very new. If we get a lot of good feedback, we will probably do a full album.

When and where can we catch you perform live?

Toom: I play on the tai toon [old Thai word for the underground floor] at the Siam Garden apartment’s restaurant on Sundays and Mondays.

Chart: Don’t call it tai toon! [laughs] It’s the ground floor. Ground floor. I play at Wine Bibber Sangria around once or twice a month. My band is called Generations. Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj

by Kathy MacLeod (IG: @kathy_macleod)

BK Magazine Friday, April 20, 2018

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cover story

Start Me Up Bangkok’s 42 best cafes and restaurants to get breakfast

By BK Staff

open before 8am

Eden's

Ari

Common Room X Ari

This minimal affair puts a clear focus on quality coffee. Beans come courtesy of top local roasters like Ceresia and Brave, with blends as well as single origins from Kenya and Colombia available as latte or flat white (B80), French press (B150) or hot and cold drip (B120). On top of the fresh-baked croissants (B30) and classic brownies (B75), there are brekkie dishes like mixed berry yogurt (B150) and scrambled eggs on toast with salmon (B140).

Phahon Yothin Soi 5, 062-416-7746. Open Mon-Sat 8am-5pm. BTS Saphan Kwai

Pla Dib

Around since 2004, this all-day diner still draws the crowds—so much so, we’d say breakfast is almost a no-go on weekends. A big shiny coffee roaster prepares locally sourced beans to go with brekkie faves like eggs Florentine (B160) and kai kata (eggs in a pan with chorizo and mash potato, B160). Then after 5pm the place turns into a sushi and pizza bar—how Ari is that!

1/1 Areesampan Soi 7, 02-279-8185. Open Tue-Sun 8am-11:30pm. BTS Ari

Chu

Asoke

Originally known for its churros and hot chocolate, Chu’s two locations also pack in crowds for breakfast offerings like eggs Benedict with bacon (B250) or salmon (B290), and scrambled eggs with cherry tomato salsa and Joe Sloane’s chorizo (B250). Of course, you can’t leave without a cup of the creamy, velvety, dark hot chocolate (B150).

2/F, Exchange Tower, 388 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-6634554. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-9pm; Sat-Sun 8am-9pm.

BTS Asok Trinity Complex, Narathiwas Soi 3, 02-636-8685.

Open Mon-Fri 8:30am-9pm; Sat-Sun 8am-9pm. BTS Chong Nonsi

Vita Cafe

Vita Trade, the supplier of acai pulp puree to top restaurants like Roast, Broccoli Revolution and Brekkie, just opened its own superfood-laden cafe that specializes in, you guessed it, healthy, acai-based smoothies (B120) and smoothie bowls (B200) for which you can choose your base (almond milk, apple juice or coconut water), fruit combination and other trendy toppings like chia, flax seed, goji berry and cacao.

64 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 097-298-7435. Open Mon-Fri 8:30am-7pm; Sat 9:30am-5pm. MRT Sukhumvit

4

Ekkamai

Bourbon Street

Claiming to be the only genuine Cajun and Creole restaurant in Bangkok, this expat favorite does New Orleans-indebted treats like eggs Benedict with crab cake (B370) and shrimp bisque (B195).

Beware, these portions are huge.

Sukhumvit Soi 63, 02-381-6801-3. Open daily 7am-1am. BTS Ekkamai

The Coffee Club

This Australian-born chain is popping up all over the country. The main claim to fame isn’t the coffee, but a fine, no-frills breakfast menu that’s focused on egg dishes. Order any of the omelet dishes (B240) or the poached egg with avocado (B280).

16 branches across Bangkok. Try 1239 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-381-2736. Open daily 7am-11pm. BTS Ekkamai

Theera

This healthy, gluten-free, non-dairy cafe rolls out a rotating range of bakery treats like the tasty peanut butter chocolate cake (B200). Another pick is the salmon sandwich on gluten-free, house-made bread (B280). The smoothies are made with soy milk and coconut yogurt.

Chata

Sukhumvit Soi 42, 090-506-2222. Open Thu-Tue 9am-6pm. BTS Ekkamai

Old Town/ Charoenkrung

Brunch and Baked

Situated near the Giant Swing, this compact cafe-slash-bakery blends seamlessly with its Old Town surrounds through marble-top wooden tables and old-school shiny green tiles. Squeeze in to try the croque monsieur (B175), made with croissant, bacon and gruyere cheese. Coffee starts at B40 while there are also tea (B60), sodas (B75) and smoothies (B95).

120 Mahannop Rd., 063-094-4494. Open Tue-Sun 7am-5pm

Chata

From a gorgeous glasshouse extension to Yaowarat’s colonial-style Baan2459 hotel, Chata serves serious coffee in a setting swathed in natural light. The house-blend (Thai, Indonesian, Ethiopian and Brazilian) can be dressed up with lime and bubbly cola in the Colapresso (B140).

Get the pan-baked eggs with tomatoes and Chinese sausage (B120) and follow it up with the simple coconut cake (B65).

98 Phatsai Rd., 096-154-5049. Open Tue-Sun 8am-5pm. MRT Hua Lamphong

Vita Cafe

Eden’s

With its NY and French bakery-inspired facade and painting-perfect rustic interior, Eden's evokes a warm and cozy bakehouse vibe. The menu highlights rotating house-baked goodies (B90160) like beer cake, carrot cake and lemon pie (go early or they'll run out), as well as an English breakfast plate (served till noon, B260/B490) and a variety of toast (B110-190). To drink, there's refillable coffee (B90), hot cocoa (B120) and Marriage Freres tea (B180).

7/1 Lan Luang Rd., 02-625-2000. Open Tue-Thu 9am-5pm; Fri-Sun 9am-8pm

Gram

Formerly of Sukhumvit Soi 49, this cafe is your best reason to head out early to the riverside Tha Maharaj mall. The brunch-focused menu is full of eggs, pancakes and sausages, all cooked behind a small kitchen counter. Highlights include the

Brunch and Baked

salmon scrambled eggs (B260) and barbecue pulled pork burger with coleslaw (B340).

Tha Maharaj, Maharaj Rd., 081-884-8554. Open daily 9am-9pm

Kopi Hya Tai Kee

For a true Thai-style breakfast, visit the 60-something-year-old Kopi whose specialities like kai kata (baked egg) with minced pork and ham (B85) have stood the test of time.

37 Soi Samran Rat, Siriphong Rd., 02-621-0828. Open daily 7am-8pm (except the last Tue of every month)

On Lok Yun

The 80-year-old spot has a loyal following who come for the kanom pang sangkaya (bread with Thai-style egg custard, B28) and Thai-style American breakfast (B50), and stick around for the old-world atmosphere. The no-frills decor only adds to the charm, with wooden cabinets filled

BK Magazine Friday, April 20, 2018

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cover story and more. There's a second branch at 9:53 Community Mall (Thonglor Soi 9), too.

with tins of Milo from the ‘80s. Drinks like coffee and milk start from B22. Driving? Park at The Old Siam or Saranrom Park and take a stroll through the Old Town.

59/4 Lang Suan Soi 1, 02-015-3388-9. Open Mon-Sat 9am-11pm; Sun and public holidays 8am-11pm. BTS Chit Lom

72 Charoenkrung Soi 4, 02-223-9621. Open daily 5:30am-4pm

Sukhumvit

Wanderlust

Not far from Chinatown's rising hipster rendezvous of Soi Nana, Wanderlust sources its beans from Chiang Mai to create perfect espressos, drip coffee and coffee-based mocktails. It also dishes out Melbourne cafe-inspired dishes with flavorful twists. The chia pudding (B160), for example, also features coconut milk and tropical fruits, while the skillet Dutch pancake (B220) mixes the crispy baby Dutch pancake style with America's thicker, fluffier interpretation.

Post

This hip all-day-dining cafe at the foot of 137 Pillar Suites does baked items and sandwiches from the deli counter as well as international comfort dishes, namely Thai congee (B110), farmer’s omelet (Spanish-style pan omelet with boerewors sausage, goat cheese and roasted pimiento pepper, B290), tuna tataki salad (B240), pasta (from B280) and pizza (from B290). Don’t miss their one-of-a-kind purple sweet potato cake, either.

149-151 Rama 4 Rd., 089-757-7770. Open daily 8am-7pm. MRT Hua Lamphong

Phloen Chit / Siam

Bangkok Trading Post

BKK Bagel Bakery

Despite the name, Brekkie goes well beyond breakfast to serve healthier options of hearty dishes all day long. Ingredients like quinoa, avocado, spirulina, flaxseed, acai berry and chia seed dominate the menu in dishes like fried quinoa tom yum with diced salmon (B285), avocado toast (B240) and homemade cold pressed juices (B75).

G/F, Maneeya Center, 518/3 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-2548157. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-5:30pm; Sat-Sun 8:30am-5.30pm. BTS Chit Lom

6/9 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 083-656-6141. Open Mon-Sun 9am-6pm. BTS Phrom Phong

Brooklyn Baker

51/7 Soi Polo, Wireless Rd., 081-855-7090. Open ThuTue 8am-4:30pm. MRT Lumphini

Wanderlust

During breakfast and brunch services, the restaurant rolls out pancakes (B240), soups, burgers (starting at B390) and other more fancy dishes inspired by local ingredients.

Gastro 1/6

Brekkie

With its adorable garden and hanging greenery, this is one of the city’s best places for a lazy, long brunch (make the most of it because service is pretty slow). The sweet dishes like the fluffy French toast with fruits and honey (B320) are delightful. The smoked barracuda comes in a dressing of herb yogurt with baby cucumber (B295), while the baba ganoush (an Arabic eggplant dip) with hazelnut dukkha and flatbread (B220) is pure summer fare.

We love this family-friendly spot’s French sandwiches made with crusty baguettes and simple but high-quality ingredients. But you can also get a proper breakfast (croissant, coffee and orange juice, B99) or treats like the croque monsieur (B200) and chocolate pumpkin pie (B100)—delicious, even for breakfast.

RMA Studio, Sainamthip Soi 2, Sukhumvit Soi 22, 080603-6421. Open Tue-Sun 8am-5pm. MRT Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre

1/F, Athenee Residence, Soi Ruamrudee, Wireless Rd., 02-168-5464. Open daily 7am-9pm. BTS Phloen Chit

Clinton Street Baking Company

Magpie

Clinton Street Baking Company

Brooklyn Baker

Renowned Thai designer Noppadol “Ou” Baholyodhin channeled his thirst for good coffee and eye for style into On Nut’s most photogenic cafe.

The kitchen’s confident about their crispy-crust pies, filled with chicken with Hokkaido butter or Sapporo beer-marinated beef (B175 each). For a healthy breakfast, try the smoked salmon eggs benedict (B245) or a mushroom, spinach and egg white frittata (B220).

914 Onnut Soi 28, 02-116-1670. Open daily 8am-8pm.

BTS On Nut

G/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-129-4861. Open daily 8am-10pm. BTS Siam

Patissez

Crepes & Co

Sweet and savory crepes are the order of the day at this charming white house. Great service and a nice garden complete the picture. Try the savory crepe supreme (B325), filled with bacon, mushroom, cheese, Bechamel sauce and topped with an egg. The brunch set is a very reasonable B565, which gets you one hot drink, one fruit juice, yogurt and muesli, two eggs, pancakes

D'Ark

Piman 49, 46 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-662-7900. Open daily 7:30am-9pm. BTS Phrom Phong

Cafe Tartine

The 15-year-old Manhattan-hailing diner is known for its all-day breakfast and American classics, especially the renowned buttermilk pancakes—which the likes of New York Magazine and Lonely Planet have hailed as the best in the city. Here, you can expect all the top-sellers like soft-but-crispy pancakes (B280 for two/B340 for three), buttermilk fried chicken and waffles (B340) and a variety of cakes (B180).

G/F, 137 Pillars Suites, 59/1 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-079-7133. Open daily 7am-11pm. BTS Phrom Phong

Brekkie

Situated right beside BTS Chit Lom, this is Bangkok’s go-to bagel spot. The New York-style bagels are boiled and baked daily. We dig the classic Reuben (corned beef, sauerkraut, gruyere cheese, Russian dressing, B250) and Breakfast Epic (egg, sausage or bacon, brie, mustard and gouda or gruyere, B195). Follow it up with some NY-style cheesecake (B155).

This is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle, nestled down a quiet soi at the entrance to Retreat on Vitayu spa. Grab a seat in the small garden and go classic with the American Breakfast (pancakes, bacon, sausages and eggs, B250) or try something a little more adventurous like shakshuka (Middle Eastern-style poached egg, sausage and tomato, B240).

Bangkok Trading

The original creator of the trending "freakshakes" from Canberra, Australia, presents its overloaded drinks (all B190) and Aussie-style cafe food like smashed avocado on toast (B310) in a sundrenched setting.

Parc 39, 5/9 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-185-3258. Open daily 9am-9pm. BTS Phrom Phong Magpie

Cafe Tartine

BK Magazine Friday April 20, 2018

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cover story Simple

Chef Natcha Chatlaong’s charming organic restaurant not only looks the part but also makes for a healthy start to the day. Top morning dishes include the full English breakfast (B390), which is served in a big pan, and the quinoa, cauliflower and pumpkin frittata (B260), while you can’t go wrong with a refreshing tea like the “MaLou” Oolong lychee lime (B120).

235/5 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 02-662-2510. Open Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat-Sun 8am-6pm. MRT Sukhumvit

Holey Artisan Bakery

Grab your morning bread fix at the two branches of this early-rising bakery where the bread and pastries are made from scratch, highlighting the use of unbleached flour, house-made sourdough, glaze and frosting. Don’t miss the Phet Mak Mak sourdough (kalamata olives, sharp cheddar and pickled jalapenos, B250) or the the NYP sandwich (Sloane’s beef pastrami, whole grain mustard, pickles and cheddar cheese, B400). The bakery also serves coffee (from B80) and coldpressed juice (B100).

245/12 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 091-720-1074. Open daily 7am-6pm. MRT Sukhumvit 39/17 Soi Suanphlu, 02-286-1549. Open daily 7am-6pm. MRT Lumpini

Sathorn

All Good in the Hood

Popping up in an unlikely alley off Sathorn Soi 11, All Good in the Hood stands out from the surrounding shop-houses with its stylish woodheavy decor. The all-day dining menu offers an ever-changing array of savory dishes, while espresso coffee starts at B88. Nitro-coffee specialist Bhava Cafe has moved from its original location in Silom to pour their self-roasted coffee (B88) from the tap here, too.

Sathorn Soi 11, Yaek 5, 086-577-7796. Open daily 7am-9pm. BTS Surasak

Coffee Craftsman

Set in a 70-year-old wooden house dating back to the Rama 7 era, this Yen Akat neighborhood favorite wows you from first glance. The cafe highlights beans by local micro roasters, with two house signature blends: Artisan (Thai, Colombia and Guatemala) and Craftsman (Thai, Brazil and Ethiopia). The menu features various avo-toast options along with some solid pizza (get the chorizo and portabello mushroom, B390).

Not Just Another Cup

This airy, two-story restaurant deals in a familiar combination of egg-focused dishes, prettily poured coffee and cold-pressed juices served in a daytime-friendly dining room. Order the Moroccan-style rgg skillet in a richly spiced tomato sauce, served alongside some deliciously fluffy bread for dunking (B320).

75/1 Sathorn Soi 10, 02-635-3464. Open daily 7am-7pm. BTS Chong Nonsi

Rocket Coffeebar

Bangkok’s stylish brunch pioneer is now down to its original Sathorn branch (plus a counter at MRT Thai Cultural Centre and the odd pop-up).

Yet, the winning formula remains: wholesome food, freshly baked goods and artisanal coffee.

The highlight has to be the delightful breakfast menu which includes dishes like the yogurt bowl (B240) and the now-mythical Rocket’s Benedict (B295), arguably Bangkok’s best version of this now-ubiquitous dish.

149 Sathorn Soi 12, 02-635-0404. Open daily 7am-8pm. BTS Chong Nonsi

Thonglor

Bar Storia del Caffe

Neo-Victorian style gets worked to good effect at the original branch of the all-day-dining specialist, which now counts four branches. Don’t miss the fluffy pancakes with caramelized banana (B190) or the cheese and bell pepper omelet with Cumberland sausage, back bacon, mushrooms, potatoes and tomatoes (B250).

G/F, Eight Thonglor, Sukhumvit Soi 55, 02-714-9301.

Open daily 9:30am-10:30pm 13 Ari Soi 4, 02-057-9448. Open Sun-Thu 9am-11pm; Fri-Sat 9am-midnight Mahutan Plaza, 888/5-6 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-0363636. Open Mon-Fri 7am-midnight; Sat-Sun 9am-midnight Salil Hotel, 44/7 Thonglor Soi 1, 098-886-1645. Open Sun-Thu 5:30am-11pm; Fri-Sat 5:30am-midnight

The Hass Bistro

This two-story cafe serves up Hass avocados in every imaginable form and flavor. Try the creamy

green fruit on bread in the vegan avocado toast with fragrant truffle butter (B145) and on a croissant with avocado butter (B60). For drinks, there's an avocado smoothie (B155), of course, but we recommend a cold-pressed juice like the Bloody Roar (B140): red apple, beetroot, watermelon and pineapple.

1/6 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 099-192-9626. Open daily 8am-10pm. BTS Thong Lo

Little Home Bakery

Around since the ‘50s, this breakfast institution recently did away with all the spam and pineapple on its menu to offer dishes more in line with current (read: hipster) trends. Paprika chicken waffle (B250) and ham cheese lava omelet (B180) lead the line. We’re just thankful the fluffy buttermilk pancakes (starting from B150) remain, served with a scoop of creamy butter along with banana, pineapple, bacon—basically anything you choose.

Branches across Bangkok. Try 413/10-20 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 02-185-1485. Open daily 7am-9pm.

BTS Thong Lo

EmQuartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 094-176-3870. Open daily 10am-10pm

SNP Headquarter

The latest opening from grandma favorite S&P sees the chain head in an all-new hipster direction. To go with the minimalist, black-and-white diner vibe, you’ll find spruced-up Thai dishes like kai krata (sunny-side-up eggs on a skillet, B195) plus nitro cold brew coffee (B150).

G/F, Ital Thai Tower, Petchaburi Rd, 02-723-4441.

Open daily 7am-9pm. MRT Phetchaburi

Tiny Cup Cafe

This unassuming, vintage nook focuses on all-day breakfast, with highlights like tuna melt (B290) and egg with chorizo (B220). The full English breakfast of eggs, bacon, sausage, whole-wheat toast, salad and coffee or tea (B420) is very serviceable, too.

411/2 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), between soi 21 and 23, 02-712-5112. Open daily 7am-7pm. BTS Thong Lo

Pacamara Coffee Roasters Toby's The fifth cafe from the Chiang Mai-hailing coffee roasters offers brunch dishes like smoked salmon eggs Benedict (B285) and scrambled eggs (B245) to go with the excellent slowbar coffee (B120), made using rotating beans roasted in-house. Do also try special coffees like the snow cold brew (shaved frozen milk on coffee jelly, topped with a shot of cold brew coffee, B120).

Thonglor Soi 25, 090-930-9340. Open Mon-Fri 8am-7:30pm; Sat-Sun 8am-9pm. BTS Phrom Phong

Roast Coffee & Eatery

Roast remains high on most brunch-goers’ checklists, which means that, come the weekend you can face some crazy queues. It’s with good reason, too; on top of the great coffee, the menu packs genuine crowd-pleasers like the crab cake Benedict (B360) and smoked salmon with rosti matched with lemon creme fraiche (B320).

The Commons, Thonglor Soi 17, 02-185-2865. Open Mon-Thu 10am-11pm, Fri-Sat 9am-11pm and Sun 9am-10pm. BTS Thong Lo

This blond-wood picture reminiscent of Bondi cafes rolls out all-day Australian breakfast staples and specialty coffee. Recommendations include the egg mikado (B320), sourdough topped with two poached eggs, cured salmon and yellow hollandaise sauce, and the corn fritter (B290) with bacon, cherry tomato, baby spinach and avocado salsa.

68/1 Sukhumvit Soi 38, 02-712-1774. Open Tue-Sun 9am-1030pm. BTS Thong Lo

Viva Thonglor

Former Opposite Mess Hall head honcho Jess Barnes has taken the reins of the sprawling five-story building to serve up produce-forward, casual plates like bone marrow dumplings in a prawn broth (B600) and a beastly buttermilk fried chicken sandwich (B350), to go with straight-up eggy fare.

387 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 02-000-9698. Open daily 9am-11pm. BTS Thong Lo

30 Yen Akat Rd., 02-249-0180. Open daily 7am-7pm

The Corner

This humble Mediterranean restaurant rolls out all-day brunch sets like Healthy (toasted muesli and yogurt served fresh fruits, juice, homemade bread and condiments, B150) and Le Parisien (Paris ham and emmental cheese in a baguette, B160). But we also dig the sandwiches—go for the croque monsieur (B190) along with a homemade lemon soda (B70) on the open-air terrace.

Not Just Another Cup

Luka Moto

Tribeca Restobar

27/39 Soi Sribumphen, 02-679-8438. Open Wed-Sun 7am-10pm. MRT Khlong Toei

Luka

The Hass Bistro

This chic cafe zeroes in on down-to-earth comfort food like shakshuka (poached eggs in tomato sauce served in a hot skillet with slices of toasted sourdough, B320) and breakfast burrito with quinoa, scrambled egg, cheese, sausage, tomato salsa, avocado and "Thai chipotle" salsa (B310).

Sauces, juices and pickles are homemade, while the produce comes from reputable names like Adams Organic, the Royal Project Foundation and Sloane's. There's now a second branch in Thonglor.

Casa Pagoda, 64/3 Pan Rd., 02-637-8558. Open daily 9am-6pm. BTS Surasak Luka Moto, Thonglor Soi 11, 02-050-0469. Open daily 8am-5pm. BTS Thong Lo

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Toby's

Viva Thonglor

BK Magazine Friday, April 20, 2018

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4/10/18 7:17 PM

escapes ESCAPE ROUTES

By Kankanok Wichiantanon

KHAO YAI

Green Mountain Getaway Khao Yai’s latest pool villa resort is a private oasis, concealed down a nondescript street that promises quiet long before you arrive at the resort grounds.

The vibe at Vino Neste (www.vinoneste.com) is man meets nature, bare concrete and big stretches of glass juxtaposed with bamboo roofs, wicker furniture and walls adorned with log slices. Every villa comes with its own pool hidden behind a low wall of greens and bamboo. For extra luxury, there’s a two-story, one-bedroom villa that has a terrace opening onto a private pool and Jacuzzi (B7,500/night). The regular, nest-like villas are B5,625 per night. To top it all off, most of the ingredients used at Vin Rouge, the resort restaurant, comes from organic farms in Pakchong district.

CHIANG MAI

Vive la France

Serina_04.pdf

Chez Nous (www.fb.com/cheznousbakingatelier), just a 15-minute drive from Chiang Mai’s city center, is the stuff of Francophile daydreams. With its arches, red brick walls and quaint furniture, the bakery radiates Brittany, which is also the origin of its kouign amaan (B60 and pronounced “queen a-mahn”), a caramelly, buttery and layered pastry that’s expertly executed here. Ingredients are all flown in from France, the land of butter snobs, so you can bet the daily-baked croissants and madeleines are up to snuff. For something savory and filling, try a bread bowl (B169179), which comes stuffed with your choice of smoked salmon, ham and sausage, or creamed spinach—all topped with cheddar, mozzarella and an egg.

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SERINA TEPPANYAKI JAPANESE DINING

PHUKET

Before Sunset With the hot season’s beachward migration now underway, spend a Phuket evening at Twilight Sky, a restaurant on the fourth floor of the swanky SiS Kata resort (www.thesiskata.com). It’s a venue made for knocking back sundowners while watching dusk do its thing on the Andaman Sea horizon. If the occasion calls for it, make the mood romantic with one of the candlelit tables. For a casual evening, grab a sofa or beanbag. The cocktail menu of standard beachy mixes is complemented by southern Thai fusion food like a pomelo salad with octopus (B300) and an oxtail soup (B200) served with a spicy seafood sauce. Nearby sits untrammeled Lampi island, famous for abundant marine life and biodiversity.

Flights operate on Fridays and Sundays from around B5,300/round-trip.

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Back to the Future When Osaka hosted the 1970s world expo, it commissioned avant-garde artist Taro Okamoto to build an art centerpiece, resulting in a surreal, 70-meter structure called the Tower of the Sun. The tower has since been the inspiration of punk artists, manga characters, and film directors. But it had fallen into disrepair, shutting the interior museum which houses a huge work called “The Tree of Life” off from the public. Following a year of renovations, the tower is once again open to tourists. Daily visitors are limited to those with reservations, which can be made through the website taiyounotou-expo70.jp. Tickets cost about B73 (250 yen) per person, which you’ll pay later at the entrance to the tower. The tower is at the Expo Commemoration Park on the outskirts of Osaka.

Yaki soba. 450THB

Hiroshima Oyster fry 280THB

Chicken Steak. 380THB

This over-30-year-old Japanese restaurant is Silom’s best kept secret.

Old Japanese recipes are alive here with beautiful local produce and imported meat, shining honestly on your plates. At B2,250 per set, you’ll get 150g of teppanyaki Kobe wagyu accompanied by fresh sashimi, salad, soup, grilled vegetable, garlic rice and a scoop of homemade fresh strawberry sorbet.

Or get same set with 150g US Black Angus beef at B1,650.

SERINA, 9/26 Surawong Soi Jim Thompson, Bangkok, Thailand

Reservation: 02-235-8382 BK Magazine Friday, April 20, 2018

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4/10/18 7:20 PM

avenue CINEMAS

Reel Talk Cinema Oasis, the theater space dedicated to independent art, is finally up and running.

Founded by Ing Kanjanavit, director of Shakespeare Must Die, and Manit Sriwanichpoom, the owner of Kathmandu Gallery, the new, 48-seat cinema with Barco 2K projector and Digital Dolby 5.1 surround sound set in a striking brutalist building on Sukhumvit Soi 43 promises some of the finest from the indie underground. Keep an eye on its website for future films, talks and art events. Movie tickets go for B160 for adults and B100 for students and elders. While drinks are not sold here, moviegoers can still get popcorn and Thai snacks. Sukhumvit Soi 43, 097-929-5366.

Open Wed-Sun 12pm-8pm. BTS Phrom Phong. www.fb.com/cinemaoasis.bk

NEW COLLECTION

COSMETICS

GYMS

Far East Movement

True Colors

Beast Mode

Tired of the Western understanding of spring/summer wear?

The designers of Emporio Armani are with you. For the menswear spring/summer 2018 collection, they’ve taken their cues from Japan, mixing prints of cherry blossoms, florals, graffitti and abstract calligraphy into the silhouettes of traditional Japanese menswear. The outcome is a refined collection of relaxed and modern kimonos, tuxedos and tailored suits inspired by the traditional Haori jacket. While deep ocean blues dominate the collection, there are flashes of scarlet red on the sporty jackets and parkas that are paired with pants-skirts hybrids and culottes. Available at M/F, The EmQuartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-021-2102. Open daily 10am-10pm

Unapologetic, bold, modern? Wear your true colors with confidence with Marc Jacobs Beauty Shameless Youthful-Look 24-hour Longwear Foundation (B1,850), which is oil-free, blends easily, provides buildable medium coverage and finally nails that ever-elusive au-natural look. Sound good?

We’re not finished yet: this collection boasts a range of 29 different shades to fit all skin tones and types. It’s about time Bangkok’s women began embracing their natural tones. Available at Sephora, G/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-1616. Open daily 10am-10pm

Good news for fitness fanatics on the On Nut end of the Sukhumvit line: the neighborhood’s latest opening comes from Patient Cena, a super-shredded Congolese expat renowned for winning local strongman contests. Classes at Rhino Fitness run from the heavy-lifting intensive “Strongman and Powerlifting” and the stamina and endurance “Rhino WOD” to the fat-busting “Bootcamp,” which mixes cardio and strength training. Membership costs B3,500 a month, while drop-ins without contracts pay B400 per session. If you need some one-on-one training, private sessions cost B2,500 (for one person or B3,500 for two) or up your fitness level to 12 sessions for B20,000. www. patientcena.com/rhino-fitness.html

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BK Magazine Friday, April 20, 2018

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4/9/18 7:35 PM

2018 CafE Society is Coming this July 2018 Bangkok’s ultimate guide to brunch, coffee, sweets and daytime dining.

This year, Cafe Society returns, listing the hottest coffee shops and all-day restaurants in Bangkok’s prime downtown areas.

Great for all-day restaurants, coffee shops, dessert cafes, juice bars, healthy eating, artisanal foods, markets and co-working spaces.

To Be Seen In Cafe Society Guide, please contact Email : advertising@asia-city.co.th Call : 02-624-9696

BK Magazine Friday, April 20, 2018

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4/9/18 8:49 PM

avenue CARS

NUMEROLOGY

Top Gear

This is how much the Rolls-Royce Phantom will cost you in Bangkok

The 39th Bangkok International Motor Show 2018 has come and gone (Mar 28-Apr 8). Here are our six picks for the coolest models. By BK Staff

The plutocrat’s auto-maker of choice just dropped its latest car onto Bangkok’s streets (see opposite). Here's what else you could buy in Bangkok with its B59.5 million price tag:

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ginseng infused negronis at Ba Hao

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in the Explorer’s Lodge of the Four Seasons Tented Camp Chiang Rai

BIKES

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Coolest Sports Car: Aston Martin V8 Vantage

Coolest Electric Car: Hyundai Ioniq Electric

Coolest Limousine: Rolls-Royce Phantom

Price: B17 million A British sports car icon, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage made its Southeast Asia debut at this year’s Motor Show. The carmaker is pushing new alloys, low-set engine, a 0-100 time of 3.6 seconds, unfathomable top speeds, rear-mounted ZF 8-speed automatic transmission and other mechanical details we don’t quite understand. What we saw: a boldly futuristic machine that nonetheless pays tribute to the classic elegance of its forerunners.

Runner-up: Porsche 911 GT2 RS (B33.5 million)

Price: B1.75 million The Hyundai Ioniq Electric is the only second fully-electric vehicle to be sold in Thailand, and at B1.75 million, it’s a half-million-baht cheaper than it’s only rival, the Kia Soul EV (priced at B2.3 million and released last year). At 9.9 seconds from 0-100 km/h, the Ioniq’s no Tesla, but it will reach speeds of 165 km/h thanks to 120 PS and 295 Nm of torque.

Charge it once and the car will take you and four passengers up to 280 kilometers before needing the mains supply again. It has five seats, a big trunk, and styling that makes us think the designer had a picture of the Prius close at hand.

Runner-up: Mitsubishi eX Concept (B1.42 million)

Price: B59.5 million At a whopping B59.5 million, the eighth generation of the Phantom packs cutting-edge innovations, including the brand’s highfalutin “Architecture of Luxury” chassis at the core of all future Rolls-Royce models, and the “Magic Carpet Ride," their name for the near-silent ride that’s a product of 130kg of sound insulation and an all-new, 6.75-liter twin turbocharged V12 engine delivering 563hp and 900Nm of torque. The cabin still retains traditional touches, like power operated folding wooden picnic tables, integrated 12-inch display screens for rear passengers and rotary controls for heating and ventilation.

Runner-up: Audi A8 (B6.799 million)

Coolest Minivan: Toyota Alphard/Vellfire

Coolest Car You’d Actually Buy: Honda Civic Hatchback

Price: B3.75-5.34 million You’ve probably seen the Alphard-Vellfire unloading upperclass progeny in front of some fancy mall or international school. The favorite family van returns this year with a facelift and a new 3.5 liter V6 engine, which has moved from a six-speed automatic to an eight-speed, promising improved fuel economy up from 9.5 km/L up to 10.4-10.6 km/L, unless, of course, you’re in rush-hour traffic, when speeds and fuel efficiency are better measured by the meter. Still, there’s always a 180hp 2.5-liter, 197hp hybrid engine and a cushy interior that will wow you with gadgetry like the armrest-controlled AC and wireless smartphone chargers.

Runner-up: Kia Grand Carnival (B1.6-2.23 million)

Price: B1.16 million It’s no Aston Martin, but red Honda Civic Hatchback is far from humble. The zippy, city car’s sporty and aggressive design are sure to turn heads. The latest innovations are all here: LED headlights, Honda’s suite of driver-assistance technology and the 1.5-liter turbo VTEC “Earth Dreams” engine, which churns out 173 horsepower offering 0-100 km/h in 8.7 seconds and consistent with the trend of downsizing engines but upping turbo to increase power while upping fuel efficiency.

Runner-up: Toyota C-HR (B980,000-B1.160 million)

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Coolest SUV: BMW X3

Price: B3.8 million The third generation of the X3 model combines off-road prowess with BMW’s sporty styling. New to the X3 are 19-inch alloys, a go-faster body kit, new wheel cabin designs and a 10-inch “infotainment” touchscreen. Under the hood, choose between a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.0liter six-cylinder engine. Nuts and bolts aside, we liked the sleek profile of the new model, a result of a longer wheelbase, a tapered roof and a beltline that just flows from the C-pillar. Between the five seats (with ample legroom) and trunk space that fits the equivalent of eight carry-ons, the X3 is adventure-ready for a friend or a family trip.

Runner-up: Audi Q5 (B3.4 million for Audi Q5 35 TDI quattro, B3.9 million for Audi Q5 35 TDI quattro S Line)

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Beautiful big bikes from the 39th Bangkok International Motor Show

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BMW R 1200 GS ADVENTURE

Price: B1.065 million For who: Long-haul riders who don’t want to worry about bumps and pebbles as they cruise the country.

DUCATI MONSTER 821

Price: B499,000 For who: Moneyed, dapper riders who want a taste of living on the edge.

HONDA CB1000R

Price: B530,000 For who: Modern-bike riders who nonetheless have an eye for vintage styling.

BK Magazine Friday, April 20, 2018

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4/9/18 8:32 PM

bites & blends NEW RESTAURANT

Are You Thai?

Saawaan is the missing link in Thai fine dining. While Nahm has the authenticity, Le Du the French technique and Sra Bua the molecular stuff, this new spot from Team Issaya pitches itself somewhere between the three: 10-course tasting menus of Thai dishes your average tourist has never heard of. Head chef Sujira "Aom" Pongmorn steps away from Baan Padthai to reinvent fermented beef salads, crab fat dips, grilled pork neck and spicy-sour soups as delicate tasting portions that we’re confident compete with the top tier of Bangkok fine dining.

For the fixed price of B1,950 , it’s also a moodilylit, glamorously appointed, genuinely-specialfeeling steal. Teetotales will find a local tea pairing (B680), though the wine list is also superb. 39/19 Soi Suan Phlu, 02-679-3775.

Open Wed-Mon 6-11pm

NEW CHEF

NEW RESTAURANT

NEW DRINK

Changing of the Guard

Farm Fresh

Summer’s Here

Canadian chef Andrew Martin has left Charoenkrung innovators 80/20 to join Thai fine-dining institution Issaya Siamese Club.

The recipient of our Top Tables’ Best Young Chef 2017 award, Martin has previously enjoyed stints in the kitchens of Nahm and Bo.lan, but it's at 80/20, who he joined in 2016, where he really made his mark. Alongside chef-couple Napol Jantraget and Saki Hoshino, Martin helped forge a daringly different take on Thai cuisine that spotlighted rare local ingredients and made-fromscratch elements. At Issaya's beautiful old mansion reinvented with bold colors and wallpapers, he'll join chef and TV personality Ian Kittichai. 4 Soi Sri Aksorn, Chuaphloeng Rd., 02-672-9040-1.

Open daily 11:30am-2:30pm, 6-10:30pm

Mallard, a farm-to-table Mediterranean restaurant, has landed on Sukhumvit Soi 49. Brace yourself for the maximalist decor, which we’ll call upscale hunting lodge for the many animal trophies and statues that crowd the glossy interior. Chef Mehmet Semet’s experience in Norwegian's kitchens comes through in a protein-heavy menu spotlighting dishes like a steak tartare topped with grated truffle (B330) and a sharing platter of grilled seafood (B690) that has scallops, shrimp, clams, mussels and cuttlefish. If the decor’s put you in a hunter-gatherer mood, try the stew of beef cheek and tongue with satisfyingly rich mashed potatoes (B420). 16 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-662-6117. Open daily 11:30am-midnight

Khao chae, that classic summer dish of rice in jasmine-scented water beloved by big-haired aunties, is making its nightlife debut. Thonglor’s one and only gin bar, Just a Drink Maybe, is making a show of its new Khao Chae cocktail, which mimics the real thing through a mix of Spain’s Nordes gin, known for its floral aroma, and elderflower tonic. For your B600, the drink also comes with three of the usual sweet and salty sides—a shrimp paste ball, fish stuffed shallot and sweet pork cube—all served daintily on a banana leaf-clad tray. The cocktail’s only available till the end of April, in limited sets per day, so advance bookings are recommended. 44/3 Thonglor Soi 1, 02-023-7285.

Open Tue-Sun 5pm-1am

BK Magazine Friday, April 20, 2018

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4/10/18 7:23 PM

blends NATURAL WINE

Should it taste like that?

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About Eatery

Quince

WINE

It’s Natural

Natural wine (that’s vino made with minimal human intervention) is having a moment in Bangkok. We set some of the city’s top peddlers of progressive, organic, orange and biodynamic wines a budget of B2,000 and asked them: what would you pop open to make a convert of any natural wine newbies? Here’s what they said. By Oliver Irvine

2016 Stephane Tissot Arbois Rouge D.D.,

2015 Gruner Veltliner, Buteo, Weingut Gindl.

2015 Claus Preisinger Kalkundkeisel Red

From: Jura, France The price: B1,600 Get it at: Wine Garage (winegarage.asia) “I first drank it in December and loved it! It’s a biodynamic, no sulfur added pinot noir blend loaded with bright ripe cherry, raspberry and floral notes. Serve slightly chilled and enjoy!”

Andreas Pergher

From: Weinviertiel, Austria The price: B1,250 Get it at: Wine Garage (winegarage.asia) “Gruner is the national grape of Austria. The Buteo spend six weeks on the skins to give it more texture and complexity. The nose is floral and spicy, the palate juicy with a long salty finish with medium body weight.” Benoit Bigot

From: Gols, Austria The price: B1,560 Get it at: Naturalista (gonaturalista.com) “I like the approach that this winemaker takes.

He uses no pesticides and follows all biodynamic principles, which is very hard from a commercial perspective. This wine is a great balance between being commercial and keeping it real.” Nick Hargun

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2015 On Skins, Pyramid 5 2015 Pinot Noir, Valley Liaison, Enderle & Moll.

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From: Marlborough, New Zealand The price: B1,950 Get it at: About Eatery (abouteatery.com) “This orange wine from New Zealand is a blend of pinot blanc, pinot gris and gewurztraminer. An absolute stunner, a great intro to natural orange wines.” Andreas Pergher

From: Baden, Germany The price: B1,800 Get it at: Wine Garage (winegarage.asia) “Germany is the third largest producer of pinot noir in the world. The Liaison is from the younger vines of the estate. The nose is pretty and perfume with dark cherry fruits and floral notes, soft juicy palate with good minerality and medium body weight.” Benoit Bigot

2014 Huaso de Sauzal Carinena 6

From: Maule Valley, Chile The price: B1,650 Get it at: Naturalista (gonaturalista.com) “A labor of love using a local grape variety, carinena. It’s biodynamic, and these guys don’t use any machinery in the vineyard—it’s a real labor of love, all done by hand.” Nick Hargun

“For me natural wines will look, smell, feel and taste different from conventional wines, but not necessarily cloudy and funky,” says Kim Wachtveitl, founder of Wine Garage and a partner at Quince. “The style of wine will generally be lighter, more gentle on the palate. I have a partner who often visits Spain to sample a lot of natural wines, and who says some are undrinkable. That’s why you need a good sommelier or retailer to advise you.”

Nick Hargun of Bangkok’s online natural wine store Naturalista calls natural wines “an adventure.” “You have to be ready to take that next step and be surprised. Every vintage will have a huge difference. It’s not like commercial wines where there will be a little difference to the untrained palate—you cannot get consistency with natural wine.

Every bottle is a journey.”

Are you ready to go on the natural wine adventure? Then be prepared to taste the unexpected­— and don’t go telling the sommelier it’s corked.

PANEL Who Are They?

Andreas Pergher

Benoit Bigot

Nick Hargun

Sommelier at modern American restaurant Bunker, which also specializes in orange and natural wines.

Sommelier at the one-Michelin-starred Suhring (no. 1 in Top Tables 2017/18).

Founder of gonaturalista.com, Bangkok’s first online wine retail store specializing in natural wines.

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Cloudy, funky, even sour—naturally made wine can sometimes be a shock to the first-time drinker. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Although the realdeal, purest natural wines are made without adding or removing anything in the cellar, few vineyards are that fussy (to be so is to be in danger of losing an entire year’s crop). The big difference is sulfites. These don’t just preserve your wine—they also determine a lot of the character that many drinkers think of as the taste of wine. Hence why natural wines can sometimes taste so, well, unlike wine.

BK Magazine Friday, April 20, 2018

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4/10/18 7:25 PM

bites FOOD REVIEWS

La Piazza HHH Italian. 50/4 Sukhumvit Soi 24, 02- 6610588. Open daily 11:30am-2:30pm, 5:3011pm. BTS Phrom Phong. Corkage B400 BB-BBB F

La Piazza’s founder, Antonio Armenio, has past form doing Italian fine dining at Sukhumvit’s 12-year-old Antonio’s.

At La Piazza, he backs a simple, neighborhood Italian format—think what Il Bolognese is to Enoteca Italiana or Pizza Massilia to La Bottega. The brickwork, cozy amber lighting, fake arches and burgundy drapes intimate an informal mood that demands pizza, pasta and tiramisu—taken with a nice red at B260/glass. The pies here are thin-based and wood-fired, which would be excellent were they more crispy, and given a less-runny tomato sauce. Combined with the recommended mascarpone, smoked salmon and dill (B480), it makes for one soggy pizza. Instead, go classic with the Italian sausage and mozzarella (B350)—

One Ounce for Onion (Chang Chui) HHH International. Chang Chui, 460/8 Sirindhorn Rd., 02-116-6076. Open Tue-Sun 11am-8pm Free Corkage BB-BBB F

One Ounce for Onion, Ekkamai’s always-in-fashion brunch spot, turned heads with its expansion to Thonburi’s Chang Chui art complex in mid-2017.

In addition to the pastries and pastas upon which the original made its name, the newbie serves up an A4-size menu of goodies from head chef Parkorn “Tan” Kosiyabong that takes local produce in rewarding directions. Across a mere seven dishes (a Korea-referencing plate of gnocchi [B300] here, a Japanese-indebted salad [B180] there), chef Tan shows there’s life yet in Bangkok cafe food, and just about justifies your schlep across the river. We’ve previously raved about the Dirty Bird (B180), in which the only thing better than piled-high mass of fried chicken thigh is the sauce in which it sits—a gooey, decadent mix of ground peanuts, sweet soy sauce and lemon. Complaints? Well, we really ought to have

tasty, if not the stuff of fireworks. La Piazza’s pasta is much better—made in-house and, in the case of a recent penne lamb ragu (B380), delivered with satisfying al-dente bite. The sauce itself was delicious—the ground lamb cooked for hours into a sauce that’s thick and flavorful. With pockets of minced lamb sauce smuggled inside the penne, each bite packs a punch.

You’ll also find simple, produce-driven charm in the beef carpaccio (B380); thin slices of beef served on rocket leaves with long strips of parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil. La Piazza is not above the occasional Italian-American comfort touch, but while their idea of chicken parmigiana (B550) would do the Yanks proud for both its portion size and well-seasoned fries, it can’t reach the flavor heights of that ragu. Desserts are split between the classic (tiramisu, B240; chocolate panna cotta, B250) and the Instagram-friendly. What’s called “Ferrero Rocher” (B220) is a huge scoop of vanilla gelato with a chocolate wafer filling rolled up in crushed hazelnuts and drizzled with chocolate ganache.

We loved it: crunchy nuts, chewy wafer and creamy gelato. The crowd at La Piazza proves that it’s obviously doing something right, but we can’t help feel that spaces like La Piazza demand better pizzas than the ones we found on our last visit. ordered a double serving: finger lickin’ good. The hand-rolled gnocchi with crab curry (B230) proves the kitchen can do subtle too. Mildly spiced, the dish wins out for its depth of texture: juicy, plentiful chunks of crab, crunchy pickled daikon, delicate gnocchi.

Another dish spiked with personality is the Bollywood Baller (B260), spicy pork meatballs atop a creamy cauliflower puree, whose flavors are turned up to 11 through a large parmesan crisp and liberal sprinkling of cranberries. While the chicken pesto salad (B180) is fine and a notch above your regular cafe fodder, it only poses the question, why isn’t there more to this menu? Settle instead for a coffee using Brave Roaster beans (excellent, but you knew that) and dessert. We recommend sidestepping the odd bingsu-referencing tiramisu (B140), with its distracting Americano granita, for the krong krang (B120), a fresh and fun rendition of Thai rice-flour dumplings in coconut milk. As for the setting, visiting this iteration of One Ounce feels like stepping inside a large vintage warehouse, as the airy space it shares with stationery and book specialists Lamune and Booksmith is all decked out in mismatched furniture and art of varying quality. It’s fun, but also a little lonely if Chang Chui is having one of its quieter moments. But don’t hold the out-ofthe-way location against it; One Ounce is a refreshingly creative detour that leaves us craving more.

Ratings

Price guide

PPPP PPPP PPPP PPPP PPPPP

B BB BBB BBBB

Forget it Only if you’re in the neighborhood A pleasant dining experience Not to be missed Flawless BK pays for its meal and does not call ahead or sit with the chef.

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

Symbols

H Reservations recommended F Parking E Dress requirements G Live music

LOG ON TO DISCOVER BANGKOK’S 100 BEST RESTAURANTS! TOP TABLES 2018 NOW HAS ITS OWN WEBSITE SEE THE FULL LIST AND STAY ON TOP OF BANGKOK FINE-DINING NEWS AT BKTOPTABLES.COM

OR DOWNLOAD THE PDF GUIDE AT BKMAGAZINE.COM/BKTOPTABLES

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bites

OPEN DOOR

Uma Uma Jin

The Commons completes the comfort-food set with this ramen arrival.

The buzz: The 60-year-old Fukuoka name with branches in Asoke and Silom adds ramen to the comfort-food lineup at The Commons. Best known for its rich, Hakata-style ramen broth, Uma Uma also rolls out a large selection of kushiyaki (grilled skewers) and insanely good gyoza. The tiny, “express” version of the restaurant resembles the eat-in ramen joints you can find all over Japan.

The decor: Nestled between Egg My God and Fowlmouth in The Commons' food court-like ground floor, this small spot seats no more than three people. You’ll easily pick it out for the neon signage, nori curtains and sake fridge out front. The small kitchen has a window right over the grill so you can watch your skewers being made. Of course, there’s plenty of seating elsewhere around the mall.

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The food: As with the other branches, the pride of the place is a steaming bowl of tonkotsu (pork-bone broth) ramen (B220) boasting tender pork and a rich broth benefiting from over 18 hours of simmering. For something not quite as heavy, there’s the mazesoba (B250), a form of dry ramen made with chunkier noodles topped with spring onions, bamboo shoots, chashu (rolled pork) and onsen egg. Arguably even more enticing is the the kushiyaki selection—try the tori kawa (B60), skewers of delightfully crisp chicken skin, or gyu tan (B85), moreish beef tongue. For a mix of meat and veg, order the Moriwase 2 set (B330), which is perfect for sharing. The hitokuchi gyoza (B80/5pc) are another must-order: perfect bite-size dumplings filled with pork and cabbage.

The drinks: Classic Japanese offerings like ice-cold Sapporo beer (B200) and highballs (from B160) or just order a whole bottle of Suntory Kakubin whiskey (B1,300) to share with your friends.

Sake comes from the supplier behind Ekkamai’s Orihara Shoten so you know it’s top quality—try the Masumi Tokusen Honjozo Sake (B600/300ml) for something smooth from Nagano prefecture.

Why we’d go back: Uma Uma’s other two branches are Japanese salaryman havens, the implication being that this is tonkotsu ramen to be reckoned with. Expect some funky collaborations with next door’s Egg My God to match the cool new setting. Megan Leon G/F, The Commons, Thonglor Soi 17, 02-713-5950. Open Sun-Thu 11:30am-11pm; Fri-Sat 11:30am-12am

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Seven Suns

Plaagut

Kutai

NEW AND NOTED

Rising Sun Ekkamai’s, Seven Suns, brings its artisan tea expertise to The Commons (335 Thonglor Soi 17, 089-152-2677). The Thonglor location is one for the purists: the Uji-sourced, ceremony-grade matcha for a rich and flavorful drink, whether you’re having it in a hot Matchacino (unsweetened matcha with frothy, hot milk, B160) or the Premium Signature Matcha (B145), which is served over ice with a touch of sweetness. For an untraditional and delicious energy kick, get the Matcha Malt (B175), a sweet, blended drink topped with cream.

Fiery Escape All blond wood, white walls and glass, Plaagut (Sathorn Soi 10, 02-077-6144), whose name is Thai for “fighting fish,” is a light and airy setting for a menu that’s heaving with Southern seafood and spicy curries. Get a true taste of the south with the stir-fried pork in chili paste (B180) and kanom jeen with crabmeat curry (B350), or retreat to familiar territory with a humble pineapple fried rice (with chicken or pork, B190).

TABLE TALK Within the same compound you’ll also find Running Dog Cafe, which doles out Western-style breakfasts and is home to a number of roaming resident furballs.

Exclusively for Citi credit card members Get 10% discount on food only Today – 30 Jun ‘18

Desert Island Thai-French cuisine meets beach-bohemian vibes at Suan Phlu’s Kutai (178/1 Suan Phlu Soi 1, 063-541-9242) with its decor of vintage drink ads, rainbow buntings and faux palms.

The name is Maori for mussels, but doubles as Thai slang for “I’m Thai,” a call that’s echoed by the seafood-heavy menu with Thai undercurrents. Start on a half dozen Fines de Claire No 3 oysters (B85/half shell). Also get the mussels, glazed in butter and white wine (French style), submerged in cream or steamed with Belgian beer—every style coming with fries, rice or salad (B390). Sub-B250 cocktails stick to the beach-shack theme or pop open a bottle of Fashion Prosecco Brut (B1,090) if you’re getting the oysters. BK staff

Pool Time Cafe 582/11 Sukhumvit Soi 63, 090-652-4109. Open TueSun 10:30am-8pm. BTS Ekkamai An army of very real raccoons act as the mascots for this pool-themed cafe that features pale pink walls, white tiles and a turquoise ladder—just like you’d see in the old swimming hole, minus the animals. Yes, this is one of those made-for-IG cafes, but it dishes out some quality international fare, too. Dig into crispy hash browns, creamy carbonara and Hamburg steak doused in vegetable gravy.

The ice-cold milkshakes deserve a nod, too.

Exclusively for Citi credit card members Get 20% discount on food only when spending THB 300 or more /sales slip Today – 30 Jun 18

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now WED It Begins The end of April through May is being touted as one of the busiest periods yet for the city’s live music scene.

That’s due to Bangkok Arts & Music Month (or the more satisfying BAMM! for short). The collaboration of promoters Medium Rare, Moonbeats Asia, Live Events Group and Symmetry Entertainment promises a parade of top international indie acts. First cabs of the rank: Yung Bae and his Youtube-famous “future funk” (Apr 20) followed by smooth indie-R&B crooner Cosmo Pyke (Apr 25). See page 17.

SAT Off the Record Record Store Day (Apr 21), a shady scam to take advantage of earnest new vinyl collectors or a shot in the arm for brick-and-mortar retailers? Before answering, flick to page 18 and you’ll see that Bangkok’s vinyl scene has never been more vibrant and (for once!) there are actually a handful of events to prove it.

SAT Up in Smoke For the fourth year running, cannabis advocacy group Highland will take its Thailand 420 festival high up to the roof of Fortune Town on Apr 21. But this is no smoke out; the name of the game is to educate folks about cannabis, and its social and medical potential.

Joining speakers, stalls and a bamboo bong-making demonstration will be a jam-packed musical lineup including Yensuk and West of East. See page 18.

FRI Greatest Hits What do Bangkok Docklands, The Commons and Nang Leong Race Course all have in common?

They’ve each acted as backdrop for The Great Outdoor Market, the fairy light-strewn popup to trump all fairy light-strewn popups. The latest edition takes place on Apr 20-22, repurposing the lush green racecourse with popup cafes, food trucks and fashion.

See page 19.

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WE CAN TELL YOUR STORY.

NIGHTLIFE

Asia City Media Group’s custom solutions can win you a bigger audience and deeper engagement.

Coucou Chole

Mala 22 x 27.5 cm

BEAT AND BEYOND: COUCOU CHLOE

This new series of alternative electronic music shows launches with French DJ/producer/vocalist Coucou Chloe, a resident of both London and NTS Radio. Apr 24, 8pm. De Commune, 1/F, Liberty Plaza, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 061-717-4365. Free for the first 200 people who register at www.fb.com/HUHBKK. ZEEK & SEA MAN

The Thai and Taiwanese DJ team up for a night of techno and other shiny

22 x 27.5 cm

Issue 08 April 2017

BAAN MAI KHAO

GUIDE TO PHUKET

DUBWAY SESSIONS: 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

U N T O U C H E D L O C AT I O N S UNIQUE EXPERIENCES U N F O R G E T TA B L E M O M E N T S

The dub-loving party organizer celebrates a decade in bass with dubstep pioneer Mala joining a who’s who of Bangkok’s finest selectors: BKRas, Phatfunk, DJ Low and MC Dan Stezo. Apr 27, 9pm. De Commune, 1/F, Liberty Plaza, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 061-717-4365. B700-950 includes 1 drink.

KIATNAKIN PHATRA FINANCIAL GROUP

THE INVASION

6 of Bangkok’s finest DJs (Mizuyo, Victoria, Dan Buri, Kuroten, Coran and Hexer) spin bass-driven techno music across 3 floors. Apr 21. Whiteline, Silom Rd., 087-061-1117. B300-400 includes 1 drink.

sounds. Apr 25, 9:30pm. Glow, 96/45 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 086-614-3355.

Free before midnight, afterwards B250 includes one drink.

san 4.5 mm

OPTIMISE | ISSUE 08 APRIL 2017

PZYCHEDELIX

A full night of psychedelic trance from DJs Puffer P, Jack The Jackal and Goa Gummy. Apr 20, 9:30pm. Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 086-6143355. B250 includes one drink.

Magazines & Guides

Poklang = สีที่5

The Power of One ‘ตูน Bodyslam’ กับพลังของ การเปลี่ยนแปลงทีละหนึ่งก้าว

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Websites & Apps

REKA

The techno DJ, a resident of Berlin’s Tresor nightclub, teams up with locals Mendy Indigo and Elaheh for a night of everything from new wave to acid house. Apr 28, 9pm. De Commune, 1/F, Liberty Plaza, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 061-717-4365. B300 includes 1 drink.

Social Media & Content Provision

LIVE MUSIC

Our clients include

Jenny & The Scallywags

JENNY & THE SCALLYWAGS

The acoustic folk band led by Jennifer Lackgren take the stage at 72 Courtyard’s Little Creatures pop-up. Apr 20, 9:30pm. 72 Courtyard, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). Free.

THE CHARM OF ESAN

The riverside mall welcomes a live performance from Toomturn Molam Group, an act known for its modern take on traditional northeastern Thai roots music. Apr 20, 5pm.

RCB Artery, 1/F, River City, 23 Trok Rongnamkeang, Yotha Rd., 02-2370077-78.

YUNG BAE

As part of Bangkok Arts & Music Month (BAMM), a series of indie concerts spread out at different venues from Apr 20-May 18, the eccentric American beatmaker performs live.

Apr 20. Noma BKK, RCA. B590. ticketmelon.com/live/bammbkk COSMO PYKE

As part of Bangkok Arts & Music Month, the British indie/lo-fi artist performs live. Apr 25. Helix Garden,

EmQuartier, Sukhumvit Rd. B1,290. ticketmelon.com/live/bammbkk

Call us today at 02-624-9654 Email advertising@asia-city.co.th www.asia-city.com

LYDMOR

The Danish singer compared to Bjork and Grimes, who performs rhythmical electro sounds with an emotional edge, is live in Bangkok with Parim.

Apr 28, 8:30pm. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 089-889-8059. B300.

THE SCRIPT

The Irish soft rockers will perform in support of their brand new album, Freedom Child. Apr 28. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4445. B2,000-4,000.

BRUNO MARS

The American pop and R&B singer, who last visited in 2014 when he famously went shopping for bootlegs of his own CDs, will bring his 24K Magic world tour to Bangkok. Expect hits both old—"Just the Way You Are," "The Lazy Song"—and recent—"That’s What I Like" and "Versace on the Floor." Apr 30. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-8334445. B3,500-8,500.

PLAN AHEAD

Nine Inch Nails are Coming to Bangkok

Nine Inch Nails, Trent Reznor's long-running industrial rock project, are set to perform in Bangkok for the first time. The people behind the show are concert organizers Viji Corp (the folk who recently brought The xx to town), though at the time of going to print no date, venue or ticketing info had been confirmed. Formed by multi-instrumentalist Reznor in 1988 in Cleveland, Ohio, Nine Inch Nails rose to acclaim through '90s albums The Downward Spiral (1994) and The Fragile (1999), which blended harsh electronics with angst-ridden lyrics. Backed by hits like "The Day the World Went Away" and "Into the Void," the band has sold over 20 million records worldwide. Some fans will remember that the band had been slated to appear at Pattaya's Silverlake Music Festival way back in 2014, before the event was "indefinitely" postponed owing to the political situation at the time.

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now VINYL Bangkok’s Coolest Record Stores

ART

Strange Loops II: Confusion is Next

The Salween Guardians

REC.

Vinyl Feeling

Apr 21 is the day vinyl collectors around the world celebrate Record Store Day. In Bangkok, that means the occasional party, but also just a really good excuse to go crate-digging. Here are the city’s best brick-and-mortar record stores.

BUNGKUMHOUSE RECORDS

Perched atop Thonglor’s Black Amber building, this hidden gem is frequented by local indie musicians and music nerds who could well be extras from the set of High Fidelity. The selection spans ‘90s Britpop through to soul, funk and dance music. The tiny balcony occasionally heaves with gigs from up-and-coming rockers, too.

Good for: Psychedelic rock sounds, from Hendrix through to Spiritualized.

Prices: For the good stuff you’re looking at B600 and up for 7-inches, B800-plus for LPs. Record Store Day perks: Over 100 new-in-store records and CDs, allday DJ sets from the likes of Cyndi Seu, Tat Basement Tape and DJ Sonny (Cat Radio). Oh, and 5-20% off all items.

4/F, Black Amber Building, Sukhumvit Soi 55, between Thonglor Soi 5-7, 086-606-2230.

Open Tue-Sun 1pm-9pm. BTS Thong Lo

AUDIO MINUTE

Tucked in the eaves of golf-centric Thaniya Plaza, this store is a haven of Coltrane, Davis and Rollins, to name just three jazz kingpins they stock in all their Japanese-pressing glory. Call ahead to ensure it’s open.

Good for: Hidden in the mountains of MOR in the pop-rock section you’ll also dig out some esoteric gold.

Prices: From B100 all the way up to B10,000.

4/F, Thaniya Plaza, Silom Rd., 093-328-5998.

Open Mon-Sat noon-7pm. BTS Sala Daeng

FATBLACK RECORDS

Head here for new releases from indie/pop bands like Arctic Monkeys and The 1975 as well as classic reissues from The Velvet Underground and The Flaming Lips, and Thai '90s artists like Proud and See-Tao-Ter. Good for: Mainstream rock and pop.

Prices: B1,000 and up for new releases.

Record Store Day perks: They’ve teamed up with street artist Tikkywow and The Archivist for a limited-edition range of screenprint posters (B4,900), turntables (B7,500-B14,500) and vinyl cases (B3,900) bearing the image of “Nipper the record dog.”

ular love for ‘80s-‘90s alternative rock.—Will it be the original 1987 UK pressing of Jesus and Mary Chain’s Darklands (B1,300), or the Yugoslavian version (B990)?

Good for: Mostly ‘80s-‘90s underground icons—think The Cure, Bjork and Sonic Youth.

Prices: B300 up to over B4,000.

Lad Phrao Soi 8 (Yeak 9), 083-839-2016.

Open daily 4pm-midnight. www.fb.com/ garagerecordsshop

HALL OF FAME RECORDS

The best of the batch of record stores at Fortune Town mall has it all: new and secondhand vinyl from classic rock to country to weird (for some) European synthy ambience.

Their website is one of the better organized, too.

Good for: Prog-rock and more obscure Krautrock, if you dig deep enough.

Prices: The best stuff starts at B600.

3/F, Room 3058, Fortune Town, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 081-844-9709. Open noon-8pm. www.hofrecord.lnwshop.com

REC.

Situated within short walking distance of MRT Phahon Yothin, this shop-house is more than just another Ladphrao cafe that the blond wood and whitewashed walls indicate. The cozy surrounds come with coffee and food to go with a record selection that skips between modern indie-pop (Washed Out, Alvvays) to old-school jazz (Sun Ra, Sonny Rollins).

Good for: Coffee with your crate-digging.

Prices: Around B1,000.

Ladphrao Rd., Exit 2 from MRT Phaholyothin, 085-366-9116. Open Tue-Sun 3pm-midnight. www.fb.com/REC.vinyl.record

TONCHABAB RECORD SHOP

This family-run affair has two branches which are goldmines for serious crate-diggers, spanning a wide array of genres from all over the world. Expect rare world music finds, from luk thung to Diana Ross and The Carpenters, both new and old. Call ahead for opening hours.

Good for: ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s hits, plus old-school luk thung.

Prices: Starting at a mere B200.

Crystal Design Center, Praditmanutham Rd., 02-102-2444. Open noon-8:30pm. www. fb.com/Fatblackrecordbkk

10 Boonsiri Rd., Phra Nakhon, 081-695-2785.

GARAGE RECORDS

VINYL DIE HARDS

One of Bangkok’s most popular record stores does brisk trade in restocked rare finds, with a partic-

18

Pattanakarn Rd., 081-486-7528. ow.ly/ vUULd

One of the city’s biggest record stores, the owners claim you need more than a day to sift through the

place. This is run by the kid of the owner of Bangkok's now-closed vinyl institution PS Audio, which ran for over 40 years.

Good for: Classic names like Nat King Cole, The Beatles and David Bowie, plus plenty of newer artists.

Prices: Records start from B100 for used titles an run well into the thousands for new and reissued LPs. Opposite Paradise Park, Sri Nakarin Soi 44, 02-346-4547. Open daily 11am-7:30pm. www.vinyldiehards.com

VINYL FEELING

In 2013, a collector and DJ decided to start an online shop. That’s since led to two brick-and-mortar stores: the biggest at Warehouse 30 and a corner at EmQuartier’s Another Story. Unlike other guitar-oriented record stores, this one’s big on hiphop, R’n’B and drum ‘n’ bass.

Good for: Dusty old Sade LPs and up-to-the-minute hip-hop bangers.

Prices: Count B100-B1,000 for most vinyl.

Record Store Day perks: Spend over B1,500 (online orders only) and get a free Vinyl Feeling T-shirt.

There’ll be free EMS postage for all orders, too.

Warehouse 30, Charoenkrung Soi 30. Open daily 11am-8:30pm Another Story, 4/F, EmQuartier, Sukhumvit Rd. Open daily 10am-10pm. www.fb.com/ VinylFeeling

SOMROM EXHIBITION

THE SALWEEN GUARDIANS

27 students from Metalwork and Jewelry Program at RMUTR’s Pohchang Academy of Arts reveal the 27 metal sets and 27 jewelry sets created for their theses. With a fashion show on Apr 28, 1pm. Apr 27-May 2, 10am8pm. RCB Artery, 1/F, River City, 23 Trok Rongnamkeang, Yotha Rd., 02237-0077-78.

Photography that exposes the Burmese army's merciless approach to hilltribe minorities. Through May 5.

Maison Close, 397/399 Charoenkrung Soi 45. Free.

BLOOD SWEAT BEER PART: MEDIUMRARE

10 street art artists and painters exhibit works meant to signify that neither happiness nor misery lasts forever. Through Apr 28. Kalwit Studio & Gallery, 119/14 Ruamrudee Soi 2, 02-254-4629. Free.

AT DAWN

Paintings, drawings and mixed-media pieces by young artists Supaporn Chulaka, Ponpassapon Bunyaritthanone, Tan Kositpipat and Terdtanwa Kanama exploring semi-surreal and abstract concepts. Through Apr 28.

Ardel’s Third Place Gallery, 137137/1 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 02-422-2092. Free.

FROM CHAOPHRAYA TO MAE PING

The watercolor paintings of Saichol Choungbunsri portray the lives and cultures along the rivers. Through Apr 30. A Day In A Life, 156/1 Tanao Rd., 092-462-8224. Free.

CROSSING THE APPEARANCES

Photographer Deborah Metsch exhibits her memories of Africa through half-frame 35mm photos. Through May 6. The Jam Factory, 41/1-5 Charoen Nakorn Rd., 02-861-0950.

Free.

STRANGE LOOPS II: CONFUSION IS NEXT

Through loops, repetition and layering, Pathompon “Mont” Tessprateep offers a visual and thematic exploration of the idea of “mental time travel,”including a portrayal of nomadic noise musician Thom Assajan-Jakgawan. Through May 13. Gallery Ver, Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Soi 22, 089-988-5890. Free.

19 BLACK EDITION

Photographer Cherdwood Sakolaya explores the measures man takes to control nature. Through May 31.

Rebel Art Space, Sukhumvit Soi 67, 081-666-8383. Free.

EDEN PART II

Piyatat Hemmatat’s photographs and sculptures draw on the imagery of Eden—serpents, forbidden fruit and the link—in a thought-provoking fashion. Through Jun 7. Galleria Oasis, 4 Sukhumvit Soi 43, 02-258-7376. Free.

SALES AND FAIRS

ZUDRANGMA RECORDS

Owned by globe-trotting DJ Maft Sai, Zudrangma has been credited with making molam (Thai country grooves) cool again. Aside from their reissues of forgotten molam and luk thung artists, they also offer up world music gems, spanning Ethiopian pop to Philly soul, as well as special compilations from their own label.

Good for: Wonderful represses from the likes of Soundway Records and Awesome Tapes from Africa.

Prices: Zudrangma Records compilations start at under B1,000 Record Store Day perks: The party kicks off with DJ sets by the likes of Maft Sai, Dangdut Banget and Tassmah from midday with the party continuing at sister bar Studio Lam from 9pm. 30% off all original Thai records.

7/1 Sukhumvit Soi 51, 088-891-1314. Open Wed-Sat noon-8pm. BTS Thong Lo. www. fb.com/zudrangmarecordsthailand For the full list of Bangkok's best record stores, see goo.gl/B8FHS4

Cheeze Pop-up Market

CHEEZE POP-UP MARKET

The hipster’s favorite fashion market returns with secondhand fashion, influencer’s shops and accessories, plus all the usual food trucks. Apr 20-22, 4-10pm. CentralWorld, 999/9 Rama 1 Rd. Free.

2018 HIGHLAND 4.20

Thailand’s 4th 420 event by Highland will offer a journey through Thai cannabis history, with educational exhibits exploring how cannabis has af-

fected Thailand in medical, social and legal areas. Expect also live music and an organic market. Apr 21. Fortune Town, Ratchadaphisek Rd. B420-550.

BANGKOK FARMER'S MARKET

The chance to shop for organic produce and handcrafted goods straight from the source. Apr 21-22, 9am5pm. Sammakorn Place, 3/F, Pure Place Ramkhamhaeng, Ramkhamhaeng Rd. Free.

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FILM Opening (Apr 19)

COLD SKIN (FRANCE/SPAIN)

TAXI 5 (FRANCE)

Action/Horror. A young weather observer finds his new post at the edge of the Antarctic Circle haunted by a horror which its only witness is unable to name.

Action/Comedy. A police officer transferred to the Marseille police force is assigned to take down a group of Italian robbers who drive powerful Ferraris.

PLEASE STAND BY (USA)

Comedy/Drama. A young autistic woman goes on a bold adventure to deliver her “Star Trek” script to a writing competition in Hollywood.

Upcoming (Apr 26)

Last chance to be seen in BK Magazine’s new guide, Better You! The BK Better You guide shows readers the hottest workout trends, best gyms, healthyeating shops and restaurants, and coolest workout gear, as well as top wellness retreats and the beauty clinics you can trust.

AVENGERS 3: INFINITY WAR (USA)

A FANTASTIC WOMAN (CHILE)

Action. The Avengers team unites with additions from all over the Marvel Universe to fight Thanos, a mad titan coming for the Infinity Stones, humanity and the world.

Drama. Marina, a waitress and singer, must confront her lover’s family after he suddenly falls sick and dies.

SHOPPING The Return of the Great Outdoor

Market

The Great Outdoor Market

Nang Leong Race Course

The Great Outdoor Market returns Apr 20-22 with three days of food, art, boutique clothing and live music at a scenic new location. The pop-up market is known for its very IG-friendly settings, having started life at Bangkok Docklands. Next stop: the green surrounds of Nang Leong Race Course. The event begins 4pm daily, each evening featuring popular headliner bands like Safeplanet, Costlywood, Fwends and Jelly Rocket, to name a few. The organizers are also promising over 60 pop-up cafes, food stalls and trucks, as well as pop-ups from 46 local clothing designers. Keep an eye on www.fb.com/ thegreatoutdoormarket. The best way to get to the festival is the free shuttle boat that runs every 30 minutes from BTS Ratchathewi. Alternatively, the race course is a 15-minute taxi ride from BTS National Stadium Station.

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