BK E-Magazine 754, Jan 11,2019

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it's free!

80/20 Vision Napol Jantraget kicks his restaurant into a new era Arabian Days Taste trekking in Singapore’s Middle Eastern quarter Well Now The diets and fitness fads shaping 2019 Bowled Over It’s the acai berry smoothie taste test The

tk party

NO. 754 JAN 11, 2019. www.bkmagazine.com

Bangkok 4.0 starts now

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Reach Thousands of Hungry, Affluent Diners in BK Magazine,s Top Tables • Bangkok’s most trusted guide for discerning foodies • 100 top restaurants chosen by an independent panel • Top 3 Google result for “Bangkok best restaurants” • Distributed to over 350 high-traffic venues in Bangkok • Extended exposure through digital PDF version

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BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JANUARY 11, 2019

04

Who's in charge?

Managing Director & Publisher Andrew Hiransomboon

upfront

Managing Editor Oliver Irvine Digital Director / Deputy Editor Carl Dixon Senior Digital Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Digital Content Coordinator Pakchira Bunphol Writers Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj, Dhipkawee Sriyananda Selley, Kankanok Wichiantanon

Why 80/20’s back with a no-compromises menu

Art Director Ratchprapha Sunthornprasat Production Supervisor Komkrit Klinkaeo Graphic Designers Anunya Chobnitas, Wirankan Saiyasombut Photographer Poonsawat Suttama Video Content Manager Wanlop Rungkuvijad Video Designer Saranya Laowtrakul Videographer Nattapol Srisukh Junior Video Editor Tham Rodjananaudomvutigul Advertising Director Wanida Akeapichai Sales Managers Tipkritta Chiraporncharas, Orajira Sukkasem Senior Sales Associates Tassanee Mahamad, Nattaya Bovornsettanon, Orakarn Laohakanjanasiri ASIA CITY STUDIO Managing Editor Dietrich Neu Associate Editor Sureepak Janyapat Senior Project Manager Chayanap Tongdadas Project Coordinator Sirinart Panyasricharoen Senior Developer Wasan Wangrach Writer-Translator Tripop Leelasestaporn Branded Content Writer Chakariya Cheewatara SOIMILK Editor Nathapong Suppavatee Senior Writer Rujiyatorn Choksiriwan Writer Atiwat Uton Brand Manager Onwara Sittirug Sales Associates Prawpraew Pairohg, Kornkanok Sriwaranant

06 cover

Here’s why 2019 is set to be awesome

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

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Contributors Angela Symons, Kathy MacLeod Intern Aomthong Linthong, Jidapa Kanogsirima

travel

Cover photo by Poonsawat Suttama

Far East meets Middle East in Singapore

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

Where to find us!

The Asia City Media Group 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 “Asia City Living” Magazine is edited by Andrew Hiransomboon and published 24 times a year, twice a month by Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Copyright ©2019 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 (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 Media Group (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

22 drink

Here’s what you’ll be drinking this year

24 wellness

Say hello to the new ways to keep fit

get in the loop

bkmagazine.com

contest, updates, stories

facebook.com/bkmagazine

latest news and trends

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taste test

neighborhood

Acai berry showdown

Punnawithi comes of age

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Thailand vows New Year road deaths record high by 2020 Bangkok, Thailand—The Department of Land Transport today announced its goal to achieve over 500 New Year road deaths by 2020, following this year’s second all-time high of 463 road fatalities in five days.

“For five years, we’ve been steadily watching New Year fatalities increase under military rule,” said a DLT spokesperson Koranis Chanwikul. “So this year’s figure of just 463 deaths came as a disappointment. We need to try harder if we’re to reach 2017’s record.”

While drunkenness was in steep evidence all across Thailand’s roads from Dec 29-Jan 2, with cars and motorcycles swerving across lanes, honking irrationally, undertaking at 120km/hr and U-turning on highways, drivers only managed to convert 12 percent of 3,791 road accidents into known fatalities.

“Clearly, there’s room for improvement. We’re confident we can reach the 2020 goal,” said Koranis.

But with a general election looming, some commenters are worried what effect democracy might have on the greater and greater road fatalities witnessed over holiday periods since the junta took office.

“Just look at those 2008-2011 numbers, it’s downdown-down. If the democrats come back into power, we’re screwed,” said a professor in road safety at Chubalkorn University. “I’d urge all Thais to channel their excitement at once more living in a pseudo-democracy into getting tanked off their eyeballs then jumping on a Honda Dream without a helmet.”

The same professor also pointed to greater credit access among the working classes as an obstacle to the DLT’s target. “You know how easy it is to get finance on a Yaris these days? Not enough people without helmets on the back of old motorbikes, that’s this country’s problem,” he slurred while reaching for the keys to his Camry. “Good job the economy’s set to tank and they’ll be back on the peasant-mobile soon.”

Meanwhile on Thonglor, Instagram food influencer Pancake said that new ride hailing technology like Grab and All Thai Taxi had had a devastating effect on drink driving habits among her peers.

“My parents used to, like, insist I drive home wasted if it meant I didn’t get into one of those yucky street cabs,” she said via Line. “Now I can take a cab that’s not majorly fugly AND know who the driver is. There’s just no point taking my car any more.”

The education ministry this week also weighed in on the debate, proposing greater efforts to promote a laissezfaire attitude to drink driving among school pupils to help the DLT reach its target.

They also promised to work harder in ensuring young adults on motorcycles don’t wear helmets.

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upfront

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JANUARY 11, 2019

04

HOT OR NOT

EMOJIS

80/20’s head chef on why he’s turning his back on casual dining… for now INTERVIEW

80/20 is back. After placing fifth in Top Tables 2018 (just one spot behind Gaggan), the local-ingredients upstart of Bangkok dining closed earlier this year for a makeover that sees it offer just one tasting menu at B3,000 per head and a chef’s table-style counter around the open kitchen. Head chef Napol “Joe” Jantraget, 35, explains why now is the right time for bold restaurant concepts in Bangkok.

How much of the restaurant you opened in 2016 still exists today?

Which restaurants do you love in Bangkok right now?

None. I have different goals. Of course I always dreamed of opening a fine-dining restaurant, serving tasting menus. When we first opened 80/20 it was a neighborhood spot: easy, simple. We had a mix of locals, tourists, backpackers coming here. I have always had many ideas for restaurant businesses and 80/20 was a quick one.

I now have it to thank for getting us here.

It’s good to see Thai restaurants opening that do regional cuisine—places like Sorn. I went recently and would say it’s one of the best.

You mentioned the words: fine dining, tasting menu. What’s given you the courage to do it now?

We are ready, that’s what people expect from us, and I believe those expectations have shaped themselves naturally. In our first year, I’d say we cooked French cuisine using Thai ingredients.

Now, the flavors have become more Thai. I know now in myself what cuisine I want to cook. If you’d asked me three years ago, “what is your cuisine?” I would say I highlighted local ingredients, blah blah blah. I’d take five minutes to answer that question.

So, what is your cuisine?

I call it reinterpreted Thai cuisine. We encourage cooks, including myself, to do four things: to rethink, to reapproach, to rediscover and to revise.

“I don’t think I could eat at my own restaurant every day” THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

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The partnership with Foodie Collection [Il Fumo, Via Maris and La Dotta]: what’s that brought to the table?

They’ve helped a lot with PR and drinks. We have a great guy like Palm [head barman at Vesper] taking care of cocktails and now our wine program is from Il Fumo’s sommelier. Having them means we can spend more time in the kitchen.

Whether you’re feeling happy or sad, hungry or horny, Emojis are a great way of communicating your emotions. But we really question the Election Commission’s judgement in including them on the draft ballot. Will it be the Battery Half Dead Party or the Floppy Disc Alliance who become our next leaders? Either way, we’ll give them two years tops before tank emoji party takes back control.

DUAL PRICING An ice-cream parlor called Stickhouse has received the worst social media kicking since Prawit wore a Rolex for only offering its 50-percent discount promotion to Thais. Meanwhile in Pattaya a golf course has made headlines for charging foreign players B1,600 more per round than their Thai counterparts.

Most amazing is that it’s taken people till now to kick up a stink about this crap.

Do you think the Michelin thing has elevated Bangkok’s standard?

Absolutely, but it’s mixed. Some have raised their standard but I also see places opening just for Michelin, to get that exposure. For me, we still have to do what we do, focus on one table, one plate at a time and put out food that matches the standards we talk about every night. I don’t know when, but we will get there.

What frustrates you about food in Bangkok?

I don’t know why all good Thai food now has to come with fine linen, good service, wine glasses.

I think real food doesn’t have to be from a high level set-up. I would love to see more of that.

Yet here we are—tasting menu, wine glasses, linen...

Yes [laughs]. We can enjoy food on many different levels. Honestly, I don’t think I could come to my own restaurant every day. I would love to do a more casual set-up, too.

If you could collaborate with anyone in Bangkok, who would it be?

Chef Ton from Le Du, chef Yod from Sorn, and my big brothers chef Prin [formerly of Nahm], chef Chalee [100 Mahaseth] and chef Num [Samuay & Sons] for sure. They really were big brothers to me during the time we were closed. Oliver Irvine

1052-1054 Charoenkrung Soi 26, 099-118-2200

CLARIFICATION Take a cloudy liquid; make it clear; bask in love and praise from adoring cocktail drinkers everywhere. That’s the trajectory Bangkok bars from Tropic City in Charoenkrung to Liberation in Thonglor are hoping for with their latest menus, which put the spotlight on a technique called clarification. Read this and more 2019 booze trends on page 22.

OPENING DATES Every January, we round up Bangkok’s biggest hotel openings based on the official opening dates provided by the properties.

And every year, barely half of them actually open. So if you want to know which places might launch in 2019 but will more likely open when we’re all using iPhone XIVs and taking the BTS all the way to Pattaya, flip to page 6.

by Kathy MacLeod (IG: @kathy_macleod)

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cover | what happens next?

What We Know So Far Shops, gigs, restaurants and five-star hotels—here’s what to look forward to in Bangkok throughout 2019.

By BK staff

Think Bangkok has enough fancy five-star hotels? Think again.

2019 is set to be a bumper year for luxury openings from Phloen Chit to the riverside. Though if past form is anything to go by, you can take some of these official opening dates with a pinch of salt.

Asai Hotel

Four Seasons Private Residences

It may finally be curtains for the classic old Dusit Thani on Silom, but the brand is forging ahead with a new, younger brand at other sites across Bangkok. ASAI hopes to draw young Millennials who want style on a budget. Its first property is set to open in Mixt Chatuchak in the first quarter of 2019, followed by a second branch on Sathorn Soi 12. After that, ASAI plans on moving into the Philippines and Myanmar.

Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences

Capella

Four Seasons is set to make a 300-room return to Bangkok by the third quarter of 2019. Expect an urban resort-style property (low rise, lots of gardens and landscaping) that will sit next to a 73-story building with 366 corner-unit private residences. It’s part of a new riverside development collectively dubbed the Chao Phraya Estate (also including Capella hotel, see opposite, on the other side of the river). High-end hotel designer hotshots Denniston were brought in to work on the interiors and hard landscaping, while the architecture comes courtesy of London-based Hamiltons International. www.fourseasons.com/Bangkok

Rosewood

Mahanakhon (Orient Express)

Rosewood

Keep your sights trained on Phloen Chit’s latest skyscraper for the opening of the Rosewood Bangkok, which begins on its 33rd floor. With a total of 159 rooms, facilities include three restaurants and bars, Rosewood’s signature spa, a swimming pool and a fitness center. www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/bangkok

Orient Express

After waiting what seems like forever and ever for The Bangkok Edition hotel, turns out we’re getting something altogether different. Mahanakhon Tower, now under the ownership of

King Power, is set to welcome a hotel themed after the high-luxe passenger train that used to connect Paris and Istanbul. The Orient Express Mahanakhon Bangkok will feature 154 rooms, including nine suites and two penthouses, with France's Tristan Auer, the Maison&Objet 2017 Designer of the Year, having the task of applying Art Deco stylings to the interiors.

Also expected to open in the final quarter of 2019 is Mahanathi, the new Thai fine-dining venture of David Thompson, modern Cantonese restaurant Mott 32 and a high-end spa by centuries-old cosmetics brand Guerlain. www.orient-express.com

Capella

The upscale hotel brand from Horst Schulze, former long-time president of Ritz-Carlton, is expected to arrive beside the Chao Phraya in early-to-mid 2019. The 101 suites come with sweeping river views, with Thai textiles and accents littered throughout the low-rise development. Within the property, you’ll find a fine-dining restaurant named Cote (see page 8). www.capellahotels.com/en/capella-bangkok

The new-look Mandarin Oriental

From March 2019, the majority of the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok will close to make way for seven months of renovation works. Before you freak out, the renowned “Asia’s 50 Best” Bamboo Bar and two-Michelin-starred Le Normandie will remain open—phew! The revamp will focus on enlarging the guest rooms on the River Wing, reducing the number from 338 to 301 rooms, while the number of suites will increase from 30 to 46, all of which will be decorated by Jeffrey Wilkes from boutique firm Design Wilkes. www.mandarinoriental.com/bangkok

Asai Hotel (Dusit’s hipster spinoff)

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2019’s best confirmed gigs

As if the 37 openings to make our best new restaurants 2018 lineup weren’t enough, 2019 is already promising to be a bumper year for foodies. Here’s slice of what you can expect.

1826 Mixology & Rooftop

Axis Dining

In-the-know diners spent the end of 2018 enjoying clandestine pop-ups from a pair of US chefs named Aisha Ibrahim (formerly of Aziamendi in Phang-Nga) and Samantha Beaird (of San Francisco’s Boulevard). “Currently we’re running pop-ups but we’re working on opening a restaurant,” Aisha tells us. “We want to open a small fine-dining space showcasing what I think hasn’t been expressed in Thailand: seasonality.” Aisha and Sam’s pop-ups can span anything from 12-20 courses that adjust depending on Thailand’s micro-seasons. Keep an eye on their IG @ axisdining.th for their latest news.

1826 Mixology & Rooftop

New year; new rooftop bar. Bangkok’s latest will sit atop the old Rembrandt hotel, where they’re transforming their 26th floor into a cocktail lounge. While the fusion bar snacks will draw from the hotel’s well-established restaurants (Mexican from Mexicano, Indian from Rang Mahal, Italian from da Vinci), the cocktails will be allnew, with a signature inspired by the hilltop Indian tea town called Kurseong.

Cote

The folk at the “ultraluxury” Capella riverside property (see page 6) are still keeping heavy wraps on their flagship restaurant. What we do know: Antony Scholtmeyer (who was at the helm of Elements when it won its debut Michelin star in 2017) will act as executive chef, while Argentinian chef Mauro Colagreco, of the rare vegetable-celebrating Mirazur restaurant in Menton, France, is on board as a “partner.”

Hemingway and Market Rooftop

uperorganism

Good news for those who miss sundowners on Hemingway’s breezy terrace: the bar-restaurant is about to make a comeback under a slightly different name—and parts of the teak house are coming along with it. General manager Damian Mackay says the team is painstakingly building a replica of their beloved venue that used to sit beside BTS Asoke, featuring parts reclaimed from the demolition. The same team are also touting a new communal rooftop drinking and dining venture. Both venues are slated to open on Sukhumvit Soi 11 in early ’19.

Axis Dining

Saphan 55

London's quirky eight-member pop collective, led by teenage frontwoman Orono Noguchi.

Tickets are B900-1,290 at Ticketmelon.

Jan 13, 2019, 9pm. Live Arena, RCA, Rama 9 Rd.

arshmello Electronic music producer and DJ Christopher Comstock, better known as Marshmello. Tickets are on passionhead.co from B2,0003,000.

Feb 20, 2019, 6pm. Crystal Arena, Crystal Design Center.

Saphan 55

The ambitious project headed by Chris Foo (Brew Beer & Ciders, The Beer Cap) looks to rekindle the energy of Sukhumvit Soi 38 and other waning street-food hubs, only amid the hygienic surrounds of a vast warehouse space. Taking over a two-rai plot of land on Soi Thonglor, the so-called "street food shelter" will bring together 28 of the city's best street-food stalls, many of whom used to sell around the local neighborhood. Construction is on course for a February opening. Expect "street food prices" (B40-50), opening hours till “very late,” parking for over 60 cars and 100 motorbikes, and delivery.

Hemingway

he Internet Gig organizer Have You Heard? will bring over the L.A. native soul quintet. Tickets are B1,800-2,000 via Ticketmelon.

Feb 21, 2019, 8:30pm.

Voice Space.

The Commons Sala Daeng

The team which reinvented Thonglor’s eating habits are busy at work doing the same for Silom.

The new Commons on Soi Sala Daeng, marketing manager Thidarat “Pam” Vivatsurakit tells us, will have a similar community focus and semi-outdoor structure. Like before, it’s been designed by the Department of Architecture, though we’ve been promised a distinct look this time around. As for vendors, we haven’t heard anything confirmed yet.

Families can look forward to a kids’ space and workshops.

odaline Mark the date of Mangosteen Music Festival to catch Irish rockers Steve Garrigan, Mark Prendergast, Vincent May and Jason Boland. Tickets are B2,800 on Ticketmelon.

Feb 22, 2019. Hall 106 Bitec Bangna.

The Commons, Thonglor

»

aroon 5 Adam Levine and co. bring their smooth, soft-rock to Bangkok for the fifth time. Tickets start from B3,000 at Thaiticketmajor.

Mar 9, 2019. Impact Challenger, Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani.

Here are a few things we could do with less of in 2019.

ita Ora

Faux-Gentlemen’s clubs

Cheese tea

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Boba kaprao

Yoga fads

Popsanova

Restaurants that look like this

Plastic bags

The English pop singer will perform here for the very first time courtesy of new concert organizer, Passionhead. Tickets from B1,800 on passionhead.co.

Mar 11, 2019. Crystal Arena, Crystal Design Center.

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cover | what happens next?

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JANUARY 11, 2019

2019’s best confirmed gigs

From a massive factory outlet mall to Japanese dutyfree shopping to Scandinavian furniture, shopping in Bangkok is about to get a whole lot better.

Don Quijote

Central Village

After rumors and reports started flying in 2017 that the tax-free Japanese discount megastore Don Quijote was set to open on Ekkamai Soi 5, we finally got a November 2018 announcement that it’s hiring in Thailand. Launched in 1989, the store commonly known as “Donki” now has more than 300 branches around Japan and three in Hawaii. Long on Thai tourists' shopping hitlist, the chain is known for its huge range of products, from basic electronics to clothing and all sorts of quirky, occasionally lewd Japanese accessories ("boobie towel," anyone?), as well as its pounding in-store soundtrack.

Central Village Don Quijote

Gubi

Thailand will soon get its own luxury outlet mall similar to Citygate Outlets in Hong Kong and Mitsui Outlet Park in Japan thanks to Thailand’s largest retail operator, Central Pattana (CPN). Set to open

in August, the B5-billion development will occupy 100 rai 10 minutes away from Suvarnabhumi Airport, with a total retail space of 40,000-sq-meters. It will house more than 235 local and international retail stores—Polo Ralph Lauren, Kenzo, Vivienne Westwood and CK Jeans to name a few—complete with restaurants, tourist service center, a kids’ playground and a 200-room hotel operated by an international chain.

Set to open in May, Siam Square’s much beloved former cinema will be reborn as a space for live performance, temporary exhibitions, performing arts and technology showcases. The three-story building will be divided into a “multi-use cultural hub,” including a theater-inthe-round called “Black Box,” with multiple performances scheduled each day. The newly rebranded Lido Connect is the work of record label Loveis Entertainment, which has collaborated with the Property Management of Chulalongkorn University (PMCU, which owns the land at Siam Square) on the refurbishment. Architecture firm PIA Interior has been drawn in to redesign the space.

Norse Republics, the people who import Hay, Lightyears, Paper Collective and Republic of Fritz Hansen, will be bringing Gubi, another high-end, Danish furniture design company to Thailand in February. Founded in 1967, Gubi is well-known for its sophisticated designs that revive the style traditions of the past with a modern twist—think 1930s-style Robert Dudley Best’s “English Bestlite” lamp series, which was inspired by the Bauhaus movement.

British synth-pop duo Pet Shop Boys return as part of their SuperTour of Asia. Tickets cost from B2,700 via Thai Ticket Major.

Apr 4, 2019. Impact Exhibition Hall 5.

roye Sivan

River Museum Bangkok

auv The San Francisco-born artist has already sold out his May gig at Moonstar Studio. Sorry, fans.

May 18, 2019. Moonstar Studio.

ason Mraz Lido Connect

Forget the crappy horror movies and keep your eyes trained on these Thai releases in 2019.

et Shop Boys

Australian pop singer Troye Sivan is bringing his Bloom tour to Asia—and Bangkok’s on his list.

The recent Ariana Grande and Charli XCX collaborator still hasn’t released ticket or venue details.

May 8, 2019.

River Museum Bangkok

IconSiam has teamed up with the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports for a new museum set to open in July, where Thailand’s rare art pieces and cultural artifacts, as well as masterpieces from all around the world, will be showcased. The museum will occupy a total space of 6,500-sq-meters on the 8th floor.

ohn Mayer The American guitar virtuoso and smooth-rock crooner turned social-media maverick will kick off a world tour with Bangkok among its first stops. Ticket details and venue TBA. Apr 3, 2019.

Gubi

OK, so two new cultural spaces—one of which is in a shopping mall—hardly prove that Bangkok’s on trajectory to become culture capital of the year, but 2019 spells good news for the former Lido cinema, at least.

Lido Connect

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If Apichatpong’s fiery 2018 short, Blue, left you wanting more, then look out for the 2019 release date for Memoria, his new movie with Tilda Swinton. Don’t expect dreamy scenes of northern Thai rural life.

This time the indie auteur moves the action (take the word loosely) to Colombia, where the nation’s violent past provides a springboard for the theme of collective memory.

Back here in Thailand, the newly titled GDH 559 has a bumper year lined up, from rom-coms (Friend Zone, My Ambulance) to horror movies (The Lake) to Nawapol Thamrongrattanarit’s latest effort (Time Machine)—though we’ll be staying clear of Diary Tootsies 2. And it’s not just about film. Last year’s youth drama Bad Genius returns in October 2019 as the TV special Bad

Genius the Series. Director Pat Boonnitipat takes the helm in this expose of school kid corruption.

A lot’s still unknown (will exam cheat Lynn make a return? Will any of the seven new young leads capture our heart?) but with Project S creator Pat Boonnitipat advising, our hopes are high.

BEC-Tero Entertainment announced the “I’m Yours” crooner will drop by as part of his Good Vibes Asia Tour. The 2010 Grammy award-winner just released his sixth album, Know. Tickets TBA. May 19, 2019. Impact Arena.

he 1975 The British indie-rock outfit will return as part of their tour of Asia courtesy of Viji Corp. Tickets are on sale from B2,800, B3,000 and B5,000 on Ticketmelon.

Sep 13, 2019. Thunder Dome.

Bad Genius

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A Taste of Home in Bangkok The new Patissez cafe is Bangkok’s answer to all kinds of comfort food dreams What started as a humble, family-owned business in Canberra Australia has turned into something so much bigger. The famed Patissez cafe is now in Bangkok! Specializing in shakes, all kinds of comfort food, and waffles that come in different flavors and are freshly made using syrup that they mix together from scratch, eating at Patissez feels like spending evenings with friends around the dinner table—exactly as it should.

Try their latest standout dishes, such as the smashed avocado on toasted sourdough with burrata cheese, or the delicious French toast, which is homemade and topped with fresh mango and saffron mango sauce.

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3/F, CentralWorld (in front of Zen), 095-869-7396, 089-833-3053.

Open daily 10am-10pm.

BTS Chidlom

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hit list | 23 new reasons to love bangkok

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JANUARY 11, 2019

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01

Made by Legacy returns for its 10th edition MARKET

If you’re a fan of all things vintage who missed Made by Legacy’s equestrian-themed fair in November, then here’s something for you to look forward to in 2019: the hip flea market has announced its 10th edition to be taking place at the old Sermsuk Warehouse by the Chao Phraya River on Jan 11-13. With Taksin Bridge as the backdrop, over 200 vendors will sell everything from vinyl records, homeware and antique collectibles, to rare designer goods and other knick-knacks. You can also shop the “Made By Thailand Collection,” a collaboration with more than 20 lifestyle and fashion brands—think SSAP NYC’s screen tees, Rosemanclub’s eyeglass straps, Onion’s shoulder bags and Horse Unit’s elephant coin pins. As always, there’ll be no shortage of food and drinks, which will be offered up by street vendors and food trucks, with vinyl records playing everything from country to contemporary hits well into the night. Entry is B100 per person. The venue is accessible via BTS Saphan Taksin and BTS Krung Thonburi. Sermsuk Warehouse (Pepsi Pier), between Charoen Nakhon Soi 13 and 15, 095-8263287. Fri-Sun 3pm-midnight

NUMEROLOGY

Bangkok’s 5 most expensive condos No. 5

Four Seasons Private Residences, 24 Charoenkrung Rd. B178 million (B356,713 per sq-meter) for 5 beds

No. 4

The Diplomat 39, Sukhumvit Soi 39.

B185 million (B411,111 per sq-meter) for a penthouse

No. 3

The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, 182 Charoen Nakhon Rd. B350 million (B583,33 per sq-meter) for 6 beds

No. 2

The Ritz-Carlton Residences at King Power MahaNakhon.

B500 million (B574,712 per sq-meter) for 4 beds

No. 1

98 Wireless, 104 Wireless Rd. B650 million (B685,654 per sq-meter) for a duplex penthouse

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FASHION

CO-WORKING

TECH

02 Bangkok it-bag maker

03 Meet Asoke’s latest co-

04 This is Under Armour’s

Proving the Boyy buckle-bag’s heyday is far from over, designer duo Jesse Dorsey and Wannasiri Kongman have launched Boyy Bamboo Den, the brand’s first official pop-up store. From playful Chinese-inspired displays, fans can shop for the latest Cruise 2019 collection and the popular Color Block series (B32,205 for Romeo and B37,905 for Karl 24) before heading to the store’s customization corner to add exclusive buckles in new colors and materials. 1/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd. Open daily 10am-9pm. Through Jan 18, 2019

If you thought Bangkok’s co-working wave had peaked, well, you were wrong. Hailing from Fukuoka, Japan, The Company Bangkok sits 23 floors above Asoke, featuring a common area (B400/ day, B1,200/week, B4,500/month), dedicated desks (B8,300/month), meeting rooms (B300/hr for eight persons, B500/hr for 10-12 persons) and private offices (B20,000/month for two persons, B35,000/month for four persons), as well as a photo studio for budding photographers and creatives (B800/hr, B2,500/4hrs, B4,500/day). 23/F, GMM Grammy Place, 50 Sukhumvit Soi 21, 092-4354240. Open Mon-Fri 9am-7pm

What: Under Armour Hovr Infinite Price: B6,190 Why? Although smart running shoes never quite seem to catch on (remember the Nike+ Training shoes back in 2012 and the Adidas MiCoach in 2014? Didn’t think so), Under Armour hasn’t given up just yet. Its fourth-gen Hovr running shoes can track, analyze and store detailed performance metrics thanks to an embedded Bluetooth sensor that connects to the MapMyRun app. A new coaching feature also helps you to avoid over striding—one of the biggest causes of injury in runners. Available from Feb 1. www.fb.com/UnderArmourThailand

Boyy opens pop-up store

Shop Talk How to spend your hardearned baht.

working space from Japan smartest running shoe yet

BUY IT BURBERRY LIP VELVET IN CORAL ORANGE Pantone’s color of the year 2019 is “Living Coral,” so why not have lips to match (B1,300)?

BIN IT BIKE SHORTS AS STREETWEAR Think they look cool with your OffWhite sweatshirt? They don’t.

BARGAIN ESCURA INSTANT 60S CAMERA Thanks to Kickstarter, this local instant camera brand will launch in Feb for just B1,700.

1/4/19 6:45 PM

hit list | calendar

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JANUARY 11, 2019

LIVE MUSIC

DAY SHIFT WITH ELTRON An afternoon party fueled by underground beats. Jan 13, 2pm. Vinyl & Toys, 9/19 Pradit Manutham Rd., 063-6585980. B350 at bit.ly/2QN9qSM or B450 on the door (includes one drink).

KENGCHAKAJ KENGKARNKA TRIO New York-based Thai jazz pianist plays with Siriwat “Tae” Pliansanthia on double bass and Mr Sticks on drums. Jan 11, 9pm. FooJohn Building, 831 Charoen Krung Soi 31, 085-527-3511. Free.

SKRATCH BASTID Global ambassador and judge for Red Bull’s Thre3style DJ competition plays hip hop, funk, disco, club and rock. Jan 17, 10pm. Sugar Club, Sukhumvit Soi 11, 02-254-0444.

B300-400 includes 1 drink.

05

Blaq Lyte takes over Siam for Bangkok’s biggest block party

ART BANGKOK DIZZY Artist tells the story of urban life, from crime to societal customs. Through Jan 19, 4pm. SOS-Space Of Silom, 36.38 Naradiwas Rd., 09449- 6006. Free.

MUSIC FESTIVAL

Blaq Lyte’s Bangkok Block Party is back on Jan 19-20, this time taking over the outside spaces of Siam for a full two days. Last year saw Sukhumvit 26’s A Square come to life for a popping 13-hour party. This time, the team behind Thonglor’s buzzing former hip-hop club will fill three stages with both local and international talents. From abroad, they’re bringing Chicago-hailing art project-cum-electronica group Autograf and London hip-hop/rap artist Jessie James Solomon, while from closer to home they’re mixing it up with punk rock band The Greed and hardcore band License to Kill, plus plenty more still to be announced. Two-day tickets are B900 via Rabbit Line Pay, or B3,500 for VIP, which includes free-flow Moose Cider and a limited edition BTS card designed by RipNDip. Stay tuned on the Facebook page (bit.ly/2EO91bq) for updates.

DESIGN

06 Bangkok Design Week is back

Bangkok Design Week

Thailand Creative and Deisgn Center’s week dedicated to form and function returns on Jan 26 with the premiere of World in Motion - Bangkok (6:30pm, Rooftop, TCDC), part of a documentary series that explores how cities across the planet fuel the creative energy of their inhabitants. The film’s by New York-based director/producers, Graham Elliott and Roswitha Rodrigues, will also host a free workshop on Jan 27, 2-5pm, titled “The New Creativity: Turning Information into Inspiration.” For further details of talks, workshops, showcases and networking events, visit www.bangkokdesignweek.com.

Jan 26-Feb 3. TCDC, 2/F, The Grand Postal Building, 1160 Charoenkrung Rd., 02-1057400 Ext. 213. Free.

PHOTOGRAPHY

07 Comedy Central’s Jim Jefferies to

perform stand-up gig this month

Jim Jefferies

The Australian-born standup comedian and TV star will be performing live at Bangkok’s Scala Theatre (Siam Square Soi 1 [Siam Square], 02-251-2861) on Jan 18. Jim Jefferies is best known for his late-night slot on Comedy Central, The Jim Jefferies Show, in which he tackles issues of culture and politics from his desk before traveling the world to confront the week’s top news stories and most controversial issues.

Jefferies has also starred in comedy series, Legit, and Netflix special, Freedumb, as well as appearing on numerous panel shows, including the UK’s Never Mind the Buzzcocks and America’s The Green Room with Paul Provenza. Tickets are B1,800 via ComedyClubBangkok.com.

K-POP

THIS CHARTSMASHING GIRL GROUP IS MAKING K-POP HISTORY

NEW_Calendar#754-11Jan 19.indd 13

If you’re wondering who the hell Blackpink are, chances are you’ve been tapping along to them for the past few months without even realizing. Their recent smash hit collab with Dua Lipa “Kiss and Make Up” saw them become the first ever K-pop group to make the UK’s top 40, but their success story didn’t begin there. The all-girl

K-pop quartet’s debut single “Boombayah” topped the Billboard World Digital Songs chart and set the record as the most-viewed debut music video by a Korean act, currently standing at almost 450-million views on Youtube, while their single “DDU-DU DDUDU” is the highest-charting hit ever by a K-pop girl group on the Billboard Hot 100. Fans will be able to catch three rounds of live Bangkok concerts between Jan 11-13, from B1,900-7,500 on Thaiticketmajor.com. 6pm. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani Popular 3 Rd., 02-833-4455

13

I, CLAUDE MONET Documentary and filmed artworks revealing the inner life of one of the world’s most famous artists. Jan 22, 6:30pm. Alliance Francaise de Bangkok, 179 Wireless Rd., 02-670-4200. B100-200 at bit.ly/2BC5Tw8 GIFT TRIBUTE TABOO WHAT ARE WE GIFTING? Porcelain exhibition by Thai artists Nino Sarabutra and Wasinburee Supanichvoraparch exploring the concept of reciprocity. Jan 22, 6:30pm.

Ardel’s Third Place Gallery, 137-137/1 Sukhumvit 55, 02422-2092. Free.

MEMORIES OF LOCAL LIFE Thai painter Raweepon Pradit showcases the beauty of southern Thailand’s community. Through Jan 31, 10am.

YuYuan Art & Antique, Lhong 1919, 248 Chiangmai Rd., 094-554-8883. Free.

FADE AWAY Thai artist Nureeya Waji articulates the effects of unrest in Thailand’s deep south in her images of Muslim women.

Through Jan 31, 10am-8pm.

YuYuan Art & Antique, Lhong 1919, 248 Chiangmai Rd., 094-554-8883. Free.

NIGHTLIFE

CRAZY RICH ASIANS PARTY Your chance to party in crazy rich style. Jan 11, 7pm. Cactus, 15 Yen Akat Rd., 02-2491451. Free.

KONTRABAND X ORIENTAL SUB SESSIONS FT. N-TYPE & JOE NICE Bangkok talents spin dubstep with special guest DJs from the US and UK. Jan 12, 9pm.

De Commune, 1/F, Liberty Plaza, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 088-419-7380.

B300.

BLAST POOL SERIES #0044 Dutch DJ Maarten Goetheer and Spanish DJ DËKYR open the 2019 pool party season.

Jan 12, 2-9pm. DoubleTree

by Hilton, 18/1 Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02-649-6666. B35010,000 at bit.ly/2GFoopa RAP IS NOW TWIO4 : 8ALIVE Four rap battle rounds between eight rising local talents. Jan 12, 5pm. Voice Space, BBD Building, 197 Viphavadi Rangsit Rd., 02261-3883. B300-4,500 at bit. ly/2BENlvd

MARCEL MADNESS Open-mic crazy karaoke session with prizes. Jan 17, 10pm. Marcel Bar & Kitchen, Sathorn Soi 10, 02-635-3533.

Free.

WESTIN POOL PARTY Pool party with free-flow from 1-2pm. Jan 19, 1-9pm. 7/F, The Westin Grande Sukhumvit, 259, Sukhumvit Soi 19, 02-207-8000. From B450 (includes one drink) at bit. ly/2T5QoDO

ANTHONY B Reggae star makes Bangkok debut on a party boat. Jan 20, 7pm. Bangkok Island, Charoenkrung Soi 57, 084654-8401. B650-1,000 at bit. ly/2T385nm

FESTIVAL LOST IN BANGKOK 2019 Lost Project presents a twoday psychedelic music party featuring over 10 artists. Jan 11-12, 6pm. Whiteline, Silom Soi 8, 087-061-1117. B400 per day.

ACTIVITY & MARKET BANGKOK FARMERS’ MARKET Shop for organic produce, natural body care and natural clothing, handmade jewelry and more. Jan 12-13, 11am.

Gateway Ekamai, 982/22 Sukhumvit Rd., 092-257-1106.

Free.

WISE WASTERS - FOOD WASTE & THE YOUTH’S SOLUTION SOS Foundation and Stenden Thailand team up to talk about food waste, featuring zero waste cocktail workshops, games and prizes. Jan 18, 4:30pm. The Commons, 335 Thonglor Soi 17, 089-1522677. Free.

MAKER FAIRE A market for handmade products. Jan 19-20, 2pm.

The Street Ratchada, 139 Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-2321999. Free.

MADE BY LEGACY Tenth edition of the hip flea market. Jan 11-13, 3pm-midnight. Sermsuk Warehouse ( Pe p s i P i e r ) , b e t we e n Charoen Nakhon Soi 13 and 15, 095-826-3287. B100.

JAPAN EXPO THAILAND 2019 A celebration of everything Japan-related, with a free live concert from Wasuta of Japanese idol group Girl’s Bomb. Jan 25-27, 10am-9pm.

CentralWorld, 999/9 Rama 1 Rd., 02-640-7000. Free.

1/4/19 6:46 PM

travel | arab streets

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JANUARY 11, 2019

14

Arabian Days Forget Soi Nana. Singapore’s Arabian quarter is packed with hip openings and vibrant artwork. By Kankanok Wichiantanon

S

ingapore’s oldest urban quarter, Kampong Glam, is now one of its most glamorous neighborhoods.

Formerly a bustling port town, the area has long been home to Malay immigrants and other Muslim communities. Much like Phuket’s old town, it is packed with colorful, well-conserved shophouses containing vibrant stores, cafes and diverse restaurants spanning Malay, Middle Eastern, Indian, Mexican and European cuisine. The many small side lanes that run off of Arab Street are hip, chic and filled with dizzying colors—a far cry from the monochrome business districts that dominate Singapore.

Bussorah Street

10

ge Rd.

rid North B

9

17

6

11

Muscat Street 3

t. at S

t. at S

16

14

Baghdad St. Arab St.

5

Haji lane

7

15

13

Bussorah St.

Ophir Rd.

Musc

4

Musc

8

12

Located in front of Masjid Sultan Mosque, Bussorah is packed with foodie offerings, especially for lovers of Middle Eastern cuisine.

Here, you can find everything from Indian, Pakistani, Greek and Mediterranean, to Moroccan, Persian, Turkish, and Lebanese restaurants—many of which look almost jewelry box-like with their technicolor interiors and vibrant parquet mosaic tiles. Hungry?

Head to 1 Alaturka (15 Bussorah St., +65-6294-0304) for tasty Turkish delights like kofte and pide, or 2 Kampong Glam Cafe (17 Bussorah St., +65-62941697), where you can savor a mix of Indonesian, Malaysian and Peranakan cuisine—try their generously portioned chicken curry with roti and nasi goreng.

2

1

Named after the capital of Oman, Muscat Street represents the ancient trading routes that linked the Middle East and Asia. Located between North Bridge Road and Baghdad Street, Muscat is lined with colorful mosaics referencing Omani history and trading vessels. Eight meter-high granite arches stand at either end of the street, with the gold-domed national monument 3 Masjid Sultan (3 Muscat St.) mosque at the center. Be sure to pop around the corner to 4 Jamal Kazura

Aromatics (728 North Bridge Rd.) to pick up some exotic Middle Eastern perfume.

Haji Lane This narrow lane is awash with vibrant graphic murals, which become the front for creative stores selling fancy local-brand clothing, accessories and toys, as well as hip bars and cafes decorated with eye-popping paintings and patterns. Check out Mexican bar 5 Piedra Negra (241 Beach Rd., +65-6291-1297), where the color continues inside for a fun, eclectic spot to get your margarita and Mexican food fix. Jazz fans can enjoy soulful performances at 6 Blu Jaz Cafe (11 Bali Ln., +65-6292-3800), a three-story shophouse down a tiny sidestreet with a small courtyard out front. For a hit of sugar, the tiny 7 Windowsill Pies (17 Haji Ln., +65-9772-5629) will draw you in with its window display of tasty looking treats.

North Bridge Road Fragrant spices fill the air, luring you into an array of small Malayand Indian-Muslim eateries, filled with folk munching on crispy roti, scrumptious rendang and fiery sambal goreng dishes. The murtabak and biryani at Indian-Muslim restaurant 8 Zam Zam (697699 North Bridge Rd., +65-62986320) have been stuff of legend since 1908, though next-door

rival 9 Victory Restaurant (701 North Bridge Rd., +65-62986955) makes a fierce contender with its killer mutton biryani. For Indonesian, 10 Sabar Menanti (747 North Bridge Rd.) serves up authentic Padang cuisine, while 11 Warong Nasi Pariaman (738 North Bridge Rd., +65-62925898) offers a luscious beef rendang. Satisfy your sweet tooth at halal artisanal bakery 12 Mother Dough (749 North Bridge Rd., +65-6909-6604), where flaky, buttery croissants are baked fresh daily—get there fast, as they’re prone to selling out.

Baghdad Street If all that heavy food has awakened a sugar craving, head over to Baghdad Street, located right next to Muscat, where 13 Overrun (18 Baghdad St.) pumps out generous cups of soft-serve icecream in flavors like durian with chendol (worm-like green rice flour jelly with coconut milk).

Meanwhile, 14 Spatula Bakery (21 Baghdad St., +65-62433208) offers scrumptious cupcakes and 15 Julie Bakes (14 Baghdad St., +65-9647-9027) conjures up some crazy-moist layer cakes. If you’re not ready for dessert yet, there are also Turkish restaurants like 16 Mevlana (25 Baghdad St., +659062-0523) and 17 IstanBlue (17 Baghdad St., +65-93378138) in the area.

Must-Hit Culture MALAY HERITAGE CENTRE Occupying what was once a Malay palace back in 1840, this space is dedicated to the rich history of Kampong Glam and its Malay community. The big colonial style house is separated into five exhibition rooms, which explore the evolution of culture, arts, language and way of life in the area. If you’re lucky, you might catch a cultural performance, too.

Masjid Sultan Mosque

NEW_TravelFeature-BK#754-4JAN2019.indd 14

MASJID SULTAN MOSQUE What is now the heart of the Muslim community was built back in 1824. The style draws on a mix of Gothic and Indo-Islamic architecture, which can be seen from the large golden dome on a base of high, shaft towers and pointed arches.

THE PROJECTOR

3 Muscat St. sultanmosque.sg

6001 Beach Rd. theprojector.sg/filmsandevents

Fans of indie, unconventional or classic films shouldn’t miss this independent theater, home to two big cinema halls that have been screening since 1973. Keep an eye on their website for special themed nights and creative events.

85 Sultan Gate. www.malayheritage.org.sg

1/4/19 6:49 PM

travel | news

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JANUARY 11, 2019

15

LAOS

10 Vientian’s lastest

08

boutique hotel brims with retro color

This cozy restaurant brings Italian dining to the woods

10

Nestled in the heart of the Laotian capital, Lao Poet Hotel (www.laopoethotel.com) takes its cues from 1930s Indochine style: vintage velvet furniture; rich tones of burgundy, maroon and green; and walls lined with tropical paintings. The 55 rooms come in three types: Urban Classic (27 sq meters), Urban Deluxe (30 sq meters) and Poet Suite (60 sq meters)—all of which come with city views and bathtubs, with prices from B4,154 per night. Upstairs, the retrofied rooftop deck’s airy poolside restaurant serves up herb-laden Laotian dishes and cocktails with sweeping views of the languorous Mekong River.

11

DELHI

PHUKET

09 New low-cost direct

11 Head to Phuket

The low-cost airline NokScoot (www.nokscoot. com) has recently launched direct flights between Bangkok (Don Muang) and Delhi (Indira Gandhi International). Departing four times per week, one-way economy flights start as low as B3,100 (tax and fuel surcharge included), meaning you could score a round-trip for B6,200—a nice price when you compare it with the likes of Air India (from B9,589 round-trip) and Jet Airways (B8,659). Delhi, India’s capital, is a historic, millennia-old city that is now one of the greenest and most populous megalopolises in the world, packed with stunning forts, ruins, tombs and sacred monuments.

Hungry Monkey (K Park Phuket, 100 Krabi Rd. 098-465-7856) may be in Phuket, but it serves MSG-free, home-style Japanese meals. Try the comforting Japanese-style curry topped with golden-battered shrimp (B210), or for a little taste of everything, go for a set meal (B290).

Though the seating area is sizable, it manages to maintain a welcoming feel, with industrialstyle interiors like rustic polished concrete flooring, high-ceilings, splashes of deep blue and large black-framed windows, creating bright and airy space.

flights between Bangkok and Delhi

PHUKET

Far from the chaos of the city, Cherngtalay’s Thai-Italian restaurant Seasoning (www. fb.com/seasoning.phuket) takes on a cozy standalone brick house hidden among the trees. Inside, the space is minimalist yet homey, contrasting oak floors with raw concrete walls and lush dangling plants. Food here manages to do fusion without compromising on authentic tastes, as in the crispy soft shell crab spaghetti with crabs’ eggs (B195). If you’re in the mood for feasting, go for the grilled rack of pork ribs slathered in barbecue sauce (B270), served with a side of mashed potato and salad.

NEW_TravelNews-BK#754-4JAN2019.indd 15

Town’s new eatery for home-cooked Japanese meals

1/4/19 6:53 PM

food & drink | news

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JANUARY 11, 2019

16

HOT OFF THE PASS

Notes from the Bangkok food scene

13

Silom’s Mediterranean bistro transforms with new menu and natural wine

VEG OUT Vegetables, in the right hands, can taste as awesome as any meat out there. Don’t believe us?

Check out chef Chandler Shcultz’s gut-busting allveg barbecue platter on the new menu at Le Cochon Blanc. Flavor country, plain and simple.

VIA MARIS 2.0

A year after first opening, Silom’s Via Maris (Convent Rd., 02-2365558) has undergone a revamp and reemerged as a natural wine bar. Currently around 30-bottles strong (starting at B1,400), the wine list highlights small, craft producers — try the Domain Roche Cote du Rhône (B320/ glass), a French biodynamic red, or go for the smooth and refreshing Zarate Albarino (B340/ glass), a Spanish biodynamic white wine. Under head chef Francesco Deiana, the once North African-inspired menu has also been refreshed, with a new focus on Sardinian and Sicilian classics like Sardinian-style suckling pig (B790) and salt-baked whole wild sea bream (B1,190).

While you’re over there, be sure to check out the new cocktail menu at next door’s Vesper (10/15 Convent Rd., 02-235-2777). Head barman Palm’s been having particular fun with a technique called “clarification”— the art of making liquids clear while preserving their flavor. Not only clever but delicious.

TWIST OF FATE

GULE GULE

HIGH STREETS

14 Drink Insta-worthy cocktails in an oceanthemed science lab

15 Chef Fatih Tutak to leave The Dining Room

16 Head to La Vie for Michelin-awarded French cuisine

After three years at the helm of W Bangkok’s fine-dining flagship, The Dining Room at The House on Sathorn, head chef Fatih Tutak will leave the restaurant this month, the hotel has revealed. Fatih’s move creates an unknown for the three-year-old restaurant, whose identity and food was built largely around Fatih’s Turkish cultural heritage. W Bangkok is remaining tight-lipped about its long-term plans for the striking space in a 19th-century mansion.

You have until the end of January to sample Fatih’s cuisine (B3,100 for an 11-course tasting menu).

106 North Sathorn Rd., 02-344-4025. Open daily 6-10:30pm

Between Jan 30-Feb 1, Thierry Drapeau will host three nights of fine dining at La Vie. The French chef boasts two Michelin stars at his restaurant, Thierry Drapeau Logis de la Chabotterie, in Saint-Sulpice-leVerdon, France, which were awarded thanks to his inventive approach to flavors that make for a “regal dining experience”, according to Michelin. The seven-course menu is priced at B6,750 or B8,750 with wine pairing, and looks set to showcase his refined and inspired approach to French cuisine. 11/F, Vie Hotel, 117/39-40 Phaya Thai Rd., 02-309-3939.

Open daily 11:30am-10:30pm

Joining fellow cocktail bar Sugar Ray inside Sukhumvit Soi 24’s Octo Seafood Bar, Dr. Fetch takes the whole oceanic theme to new levels with its “science lab on a ship” look. Bar staff wear white coats, while a side room is filled with wooden models of fossils and rabbits for a slightly eerie private drinking experience.

Following suit, the cocktails are created using lablike equipment. Try the breakfast-like Misty Shores (B400)—a mix of peanut butter, banana syrup, honey, nutmeg, coconut cream and spirulina seaweed, topped with sea grapes and puffing dry ice. 2/F, Octo Seafood Bar, 88/22 Rd. Open daily 8pm-1am

NEW YEAR, NEW BEER The masterminds behind Mahanakhon beer and Let The Boy Die are launching a new and even fresher lager, Sivilai. It will be available through various outlets in Bangkok in the upcoming months, priced at B69 to compete with the likes of Chang and Singha.

AU REVOIR Or should we say à plus tard? Sukhumvit 49’s Chez Jay closed its doors on Dec 21. The tucked away open-air aine bar below La Bottega di Luca may have been short lived, but a little birdie told us it may crop up in a new location in 2019.

YOU SAID WHAT?

The news in online foodie posts

“I don’t know if the owners of Paddy Field, Shenanigans, Le Bouchon, and French Kiss would be happy about you calling their soi ‘sleazy” STEPHEN DAILY ON BK’S REVIEW OF PAT PONG’S THE STEAKHOUSE CO.

NEW_F&DNews-BK#754-4JAN2019_02.indd 16

“Thank you, but what’s with all the bloody set menus this year? I automatically say no if I’m forced to choose a four, six or whatever set chef’s choice.” FB USER SIMON GRIGG ON 2018’S BEST NEW RESTAURANTS

“Disgusting behavior.

Honestly what were you thinking?” FB USER AIM SIRIWAT ON STICKHOUSE THAILAND’S “THAI’S ONLY” DISCOUNT PROMOTION

1/4/19 6:55 PM

dining reviews

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JANUARY 11, 2019

17

Tsukiji Aozora Sandaime

Tsukiji Aozora Sandaime HHH G/F, Compass Skyview Hotel, 12 Sukhumvit Soi 24, 02-011-1102. Open daily 11:30am-2pm, 5:30-10pm. BBBB F

H

A sister to the original Aozora Sandaime in Tokyo’s Tsukiji fish market, this sushi restaurant bills itself as your “approachable” ticket to Edomae sushi—Edomae meaning prepared using methods that date back 300 years to Edoera Japan. Top sushi counters touting Edo-style sushi in this town usually start at upwards of B4,000 (and go a lot higher than that). With Tsukiji Aozora Sandaime’s dinner omakase (chef’s selection) courses priced from B3,900 to B7,700, you’re not going to make any great savings on that, but the restaurant does come into its own when you check out the lengthy a la carte menu. Even in these regular sets, starting from B1,200 for six pieces, you sense those little flourishes that make omakase special. The sushi is cut large, pre-slicked in soy sauce and dabbed with freshly grated hon wasabi (smooth yet fiery, less nasal than the ready-mix stuff). The earthy-looking rice is loosely compacted, wheaty and seasoned just-so. Flavors go beyond soy and wasabi

Lola by Cocotte HH American, Italian. 39 Ekkamai Soi 12, 062-2088828. Open daily 6-11:45pm. BBB F

For all its polish, the latest opening from the team that brought us Cocotte and Pesca feels too much like a bunch of old ideas wearing thin. It sticks to the group’s tried-and-true formula. You’re greeted by ’50s design cliches, neon lights and a hodgepodge of eclectic decor that’s hard to categorize—colorful chairs, flamboyant Portuguese-style tiles, neon-lit signs and vintage picture frames.

The venue is attached to its distinctive Mediterranean-style sister restaurant Pesca via an open glasshouse—the two even share a wine list (Italian reds starting at B190/glass, French from B240). The menu’s mix of Italian and American classics are billed as “hand-picked recipes” from adventures to Rome, NYC and back. A good portion of it is borrowed from the brand’s other venues. This includes the majority of the pizzas, like the Burrata & Parma (B520). It’s a delicious and simple combination of creamy stracciatella, salty Parma ham and fresh cherry tomatoes. You can also get it at Mozza by Cocotte for B760 (according to our last menu check on the venue’s website), but we’ll chalk that up to differently sized

with a dab of yuzu kosho salt here, an essence of shiso leaf there. At this price the sumptuous tastes and textures of their fish is really to be commended, from the decadent otoro (fatty tuna) to a truly succulent and creamy botan shrimp. Some details we’d change. When fish is pre-seasoned with such delicacy you always feel guilty for adding your own, but some items really need it. When you stray from the sushi (Aozora Sandaime’s phone book menu covers a lot of bases) you’ll also find hits and misses. Hit: an affordable and hearty wagyu rice bowl for B450 (think shabu-thin slices, not succulent chunks of steak). Miss: two undercooked chunks of purple sweet potato as part of our vegetable tempura (B350). But starchy potato is not enough to put us off this unique addition to Bangkok’s beguilingly vast sushi scene. Despite the hotel location, the restaurant still manages to feel somewhat like a standalone, with vaulted windows masked by geometric screens that make for a light yet refined experience. You can certainly find more meticulous sushi counters in Bangkok.

Likewise you can find plenty that are cheaper.

But we’re not sure you can find this level of chefy confidence and fresh produce at quite the same price point. If you can’t afford B5,000 omakase, then a B2,200 lunch course here makes a very good place to start.

pies and location. In the end, we don’t have a problem with this. It makes sense for a restaurant group to spread winning dishes around, but when bland, ingredient-sparse plates like the Nicoise salad (B320) also get cross-menu play it starts to feel like they’re running out of ideas. To be fair, there are more originals than copies on the menu. Most of them play it safe and come across a little bland. On our last visit, the signature sliced pork loin (B390) was juicy, slathered in a decent gravy with well-prepared sauteed spinach and crispy potatoes, but it all tasted like a homogeny of slightly savory flavors. Same goes with the homemade tortellini prosciutto pasta (B390).

We love that the pasta is made in-house (even if it was cooked on the crunchy side of al dente), but suffers from the same seasoning woes as everything we tried. Lola does have things going for it. The atmosphere is fun, energetic and something a lot of other Bangkok venues could learn from. The cocktail list boasts amusing and imaginative signatures (B300) like the sweet and tangy Polycat, and the bar team can still knock out classics like old fashioneds, negronis and pisco sours very well. It all feels very Cocotte, but that’s getting a little boring.

Ratings H Forget it HH Only if you’re in the neighborhood HHH A pleasant dining experience HHHH Not to be missed HHHHH Flawless

B BB BBB BBBB

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

Price per person, including one drink, appetizer, main course, dessert, charges and tax.

DiningReviews-BK#754-11JAN19.indd 17

Price guide Under B500 B500-900 B900-1,500 B1,500 and up

We create brand stories with influence studio.asia-city.com

Symbols

Reservations recommended

Parking

Dress requirements Live music

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food & drink | open doors

17 Mensho Tokyo offers gamechanging ramen The buzz: The fast-growing Tokyo chain credited with changing the ramen game has arrived in Bangkok to hours-long queues. Across eight branches back home and another in San Francisco, Mensho Tokyo founder Tomaharu Shono elevates this humble Japanese soul food with seasonal produce.

The decor: From between the red noren hanging in the doorway, chances are you might miss the tiny sign bearing the slogan, “A bowl for tomorrow,” but you can glimpse the ramen pedigree within thanks to the glass frontage that exposes the noodle-making room. Inside, the walls of the sleek, monochromatic affair are littered with chemical symbols and references to umami-inducing ingredients. Get close to the action with a counter seat.

The food: Tomaharu calls his style “hyper ramen,” and looks to improve his noodles through seasonal, local ingredients. Currently helming the Bangkok operation is chef Ryo “Marcy” Iwai, Tomaharu’s right-hand man, who doles out three distinct types of ramen each made with a chicken-based broth. Fans of tonkotsu are well advised to order the tori paitan (B250), whose milky-rich broth boasts all the flavor of its porky

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equivalent but less guilt-factor.

Your bowl comes loaded with bamboo shoots, green onion, cabbage, Chinese kale and even a hint of lemongrass (a Bangkok-only touch), but the stars are the thick-cut charred chashu pork, two pink, juicy slices of sous-vide duck and a dollop of tart pickled plum paste. Far less heavy are the shoyu (soy sauce, B230) and vongole-like shio (B230) versions, whose stock is made with three types of clams. Special mention goes to the thick noodles, housemade using domestic wheat harvested in Thailand. Coming soon: a vegan tantanmen made with Japanese soy cream, coconut milk and a wealth of nuts and beans.

The drinks: Not much to see here… yet. For beer, there’s Sapporo (B200), Asahi (B150) and Singha (B130), joined by a handful of sake options (from B380 for Kitaya). Refillable green tea is B50.

Why we’d go back: Few bowls of ramen have the ability to both comfort and surprise like Mensho Tokyo’s, and we can’t wait to see what’s next in store (one particular creation involving wagyu and yuzu has us salivating). Carl Dixon G/F, RSU Tower, Sukhumvit Soi 31.

Open Wed-Mon 5-10pm; Sat-Sun 11am-3pm

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BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JANUARY 11, 2019

19

Unatoto

NEW AND NOTED

18 Tokyo’s affordable charcoal-grilled unagi specialist is here

19 Thonglor welcomes 20 A new cocktail bar Japan’s original Omi is replacing Fat Cow’s beef export rooftop haunt

TABLE TALK

Joining the ranks of Bangkok’s latest Tokyo-born openings is Unatoto (591 Sukhumvit Soi 33/1, 02-0879788). Situated within a few minutes’ walk of BTS Phrom Phong in the Villa Soi 33 car park, the unagi-don specialist known for its affordable charcoal-grilled eel is already welcoming lengthy queues and rave reviews in equal measure. A bold red frontage makes way for counter seating flanking a glass-windowed kitchen topped by a faux roof, evoking the feeling of sitting at a street counter, despite being indoors. Order the unadon (B180) with a side of kimchi (B45) or a miso soup (B35) and a lychee beer cocktail (B110).

From one Japanese opening to another: welcome Okaki. This beef specialist claims to have been the first to bring the Omi wagyu brand overseas back in 1839. They’re now bringing their succulent beef to Bangkok, direct from their own farm in Japan. Inside, concrete, brick, hanging bulbs and exposed pipes make for a bare industrial feel. Wide ranging cuts are available, from the umami lean (B180), to rare types like tonbi (only five servings per day, B380), to the B2,929 chateaubriand. Meat is also available to take home (from B150/ 100g for chopped wagyu).

Ari Soi 5 (Paholyothin), 02-279-8991. Open daily 11am -midnight.

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Enjoying the same uninterrupted views of Bangkok’s skyline as its predecessor (Fat Cow on the Roof), Pura Vida Lounge & Bar (8/F, Metro Pratunam Boutique Hotel, 1091/236 New Petchaburi Soi 35, 093-0166007) has revealed a chic yet cozy rooftop bar and cocktail lounge. Head here for a signature Pura Vida Mai Chai (B320)—chai tea-infused light rum, almond syrup and pineapple juice. Beer lovers can still enjoy seven options on draft (from B110/ glass), which will be the focus of tasting events, while other entertainment in the form of regular DJ lineups and Thursday salsa classes is also in the pipeline.

Charm Eatery and Bar (Ratchakru)

Charm first gained popularity for its Sathorn location, but now Ari’s posh Soi Ratchakru is getting a piece.

Alongside their usual Southeast Asian fare, this latest opening comes with some added extras, including lunch sets from with an added option for refillable drinks, including iced coffee, Thai iced tea and chrysanthemum tea. Open till midnight daily, they also have generous 5-9pm happy hour deals, offering buy-two-get-one-free on draft beers, house wine and selected whiskeys, as well as live music.

Exclusively for Citi credit card members Get 10% discount on food only Today – 30 Jun 19

1/4/19 7:00 PM

Feeling Bar

TABLE TALK

Chutney Indian Terminal 21 Pattaya, Pattaya Nuea Rd., 02-343-8899.

Open 11am-11pm Found in Pattaya’s Terminal 21 (not to be confused with Bangkok’s version), Chutney Indian boasts cream-colored walls and gold-rimmed windows that admittedly create a nice, dainty vibe. Highlight dishes include the _martabaan lamb roganjosh_ (New Zealand lamb cooked in fennel, saffron and dried kashmir chillis), and _murgh makhani_— lightly spiced boneless chicken served with tomatoes, butter and cream. All of their curries go well with a thick piece of garlic naan and kulcha (crispy bread stuffed with your choice of potatoes or cheese).

Exclusively for Citi credit card members Get 15% discount on food only for Citi credit cards issued in THAILAND only or Get 10% discount on food only for all Citi credit cards Today – 31 Mar 19

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Siwilai City Club

NEW AND NOTED

21 Ari’s feeling it with yet another hot new opening

22 Thonglor welcomes 23 Siwilai City Club’s free-flow brunch new menu comes just heaven in time for cool season

It’s all go in Ari these days, as proven by yet another new opening: the neon-drenched Feeling Bar (18D Ari Soi 4, 082-425-1515). A glowing “How are you feeling tonight?” sign coaxes you inside, where your mood will be guided nightly by the music: Tuesdays are “relaxed” (pop/chill); Wednesdays are “missed” (‘90s-’00s); Thursdays are “blues”; Fridays are “happy” (all-time hits with a live band); and Saturdays are “excited” (today’s hits with a live band). Beyond cocktails (B240), they also roll out Japanese-inspired dishes like the roasted pork ribs with cinnamon and pickled radish (B320).

Thonglor’s seafood specialist The Dock (1/F, Maze Thonglor, 148 Sukhumvit Soi 55 [Thonglor], 02-381-5373) has just rolled out its new brunch menu and, of course, it’s all about fresh seafood. On top of a huge selection of fine de claire oysters from the tank, you can browse the sushi, sashimi, seacuterie, salad, cheese and charcuterie stations. If you’re craving something heartier, head over to the hot station, where freshly made pastas are cooked to order—though be careful to not stuff yourself before reaching the dessert table. At B1,690 including free-flow French sparkling wine, it’s a steal (or B1,290 with soft drinks only).

Busting out over 30 new dishes, Siwilai City Club’s (5/F, Central Embassy, Phloen Chit Rd., 02-160-5631) new menu merges Western food with Thai flavors, using ingredients sourced from across the country. Lounge on a daybed as you savor the succulent braised beef cheek (B670) with a fresh hint of kaffir lime and ginger, or the grilled dry-aged T-bone steak (B2,700) served with a spicy eggplant relish. Follow up with the mango and gianduja chocolate mousse cake (B320)—a perfect texture bomb.

Exclusively for Citi credit card members: Get 10% discount on food and non alcohol beverages Today – 31 Aug 19

1/4/19 7:00 PM

food & drink | taste test

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JANUARY 11, 2019

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Who makes the best… acai smoothie?

Haven’t you heard? Acai berries will make you thin, young, rich and popular. They’re the purple-hued, nutrient-rich key to happiness in 2019, and also happen to be taking over Bangkok salad bars and health cafes. But who blends the best acai smoothie bowl in the land? We find out.

By BK Staff

Makai

Runner

In our bowl: Banana, Up! strawberry, blueberry, goji berry, honey, granola.

We say: Topping-tastic. Forget smoothies, this thick wallop of purple pleasure feels more like eating ice cream. It’s nicely textured, not at all sugary and has the sweet-sour balance just right.

Verdict: Thick and natural.

Price: B160-360

Summer Bowl In our bowl: Banana, granola, chia seeds, coconut chips

In our bowl: Granola, chia seeds, nuts, strawberry, banana.

We say: Forget the mundane acai smoothie (loose in texture, light in flavor) and take in the awesomeness of their chunky granola instead, packed with seeds, whole almonds and other superfood goodies.

Verdict: Grains of promise.

Price: B260

Acaí Story Winner!

We say: Berry nice indeed!

Yes it’s super-sweet but you don’t get that lingering tartness, plus it sings with the most intense flavor of acai berries. We topped ours with generous sprinkles of granola, cacao nibs and fresh fruits, and the results were better than most desserts. Healthy? Ummm... Tasty?

Definitely.

Verdict: Extra-rich, extra-delicious.

Price: B220-275

Vegan Revolutionary In our bowl: Granola, blueberry, banana, strawberry, chia seeds.

We say: With absolutely no sugar added, this smoothie bowl has the most powerful tang of berry, but also the most watery texture.

Conceivably the only actual health food in this roundup it’s also the most boring.

Verdict: Refreshing, but not indulgent.

Price: B250

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Tiny Cup

In our bowl: Cacao nibs, almonds, shreded coconuts, nut butter, banana.

We say: The ratio of toppings (two thirds) to smoothie (one third) means what you’re really eating here is fresh fruits and granola. What smoothie there is tastes thick and luscious with a decent whack of acai. We just wish there was more of it.

Verdict: Topping stuff.

Price: B135-B235

Broccoli Revolution In our bowl: Blueberry, banana, chia seeds, dried fruits and nuts, granola.

We say: More toppings wanted. Though the hearty portion of smoothie (bigger than any other bowl we tasted) means your mouth will be numb before you’re halfway through, there’s barely enough banana, granola and berries to make it past the first few mouthfuls.

At this price point we think they can do better.

Verdict: Smooth criminal.

Price: B250

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drink | trend spotting

22

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JANUARY 11, 2019

Crystal Booze Ball Thai ingredients make great drinks The trend pioneered by Eat Me, Ku Bar and Asia Today for drinks that spotlight the flavor profiles of Thai herbs and spirits is spreading. Now, Bamboo Bar at the Mandarin Oriental has also whipped out a Thai menu using ingredients sourced from different parts of the country as well as local spirits like Malai and Chalong Bay. Over on Sukhumvit, Sky On 20 puts the focus on tropical fruits like mango or mangosteen while also stocking plenty of local spirits.

“Local ingredients are so hot right now as well as local spirits. We have so many things to play around with in Thailand and more and more bartenders have started to experiment with them, trying to do it better than one another.” Kiattikoon “Toon” Auengkum, head bartender at Asia Today

Sato is the new yadong Wave goodbye to the yadong hype that saw Bangkok bars infusing their own herbal whiskey and say hello to this more palate-friendly local spirit. Sato, or rice wine, has been a part of Thai culture for centuries. Rice of all varieties is fermented into a wine that can either be enjoyed au naturel or infused with other flavors from fruits to botanicals.

Trust us—in the right hands this delicate yet complex drink tastes anything but home-brewed. While local alcohol laws prevent the sale of sato, 80/20 offers a complimentary glass as part of their new tasting menu. We also recommend you keep an eye on the menus at Taan and Tep Bar. “Most Thais know sake, but not our own rice wine. Laws and regulations mean that great recipes have died. I want to bring back those recipes. I think a lot of people are already secretly making it but are too scared to go public.”

Napol “Joe” Jantraget, head chef and co-owner of 80/20 restaurant

Keep things clear and simple Remember those days when lighting fire to a cocktail was cool? We’re glad that’s

This is what you’ll be drinking in 2019.

By Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj

over. Right now, what really matters is what’s inside, and the world’s best bartenders are putting a premium on drinks that look as simple as possible. New cocktail lingo for you: clarification. This technique sees everything from Coca-Cola to milk turned into a perfectly clear liquid while losing none of the flavor.

Head over to Tropic City and ask to try their crystal clear milk punch, Tropicopop (B390), or Vesper, where the new Coca Cola Vase (B400) with its mix of Diplomatico rum, sichuan pepper and Coke looks like it could be tap water. Other bars dedicating 2019 to simple and sophisticated creations include Rabbit Hole and the new Liberation.

Maybe, A Bar) have begun to introduce new vermouth labels to the local market like La Quintinye Blanc (B1,400), Dolin Rouge (B650) and Antica Formula Carpano (B2,830). We’re not on a level to welcome dedicated Vermouth bars like you’ll find in Barcelona or London just yet, but 2019 could be vermouth’s year.

“Good vermouth tastes like a wine cocktail poured from the bottle. Wine is no doubt one of the biggest drink markets in Thailand. The idea of drinking a vibrant, refreshing and aromatic wine with ice seems like a perfect way to enjoy this climate.” Rapee “Kenneth” Sirisinha, head of spirits at B-Delicious

“2019’s hottest trend will definitely be higher concept cocktails at places like Vesper, Liberation, Bamboo Bar and Tropic City. They whip up complex flavor using no more than three-to-five ingredients, often modified through culinary techniques like clarification.”

Minway Chi, founder of Bootleggers, alcohol importer

Fresh is best If you see the bartender reaching for a carton of Tipco, walk away. Real drinks demand fresh fruit and, increasingly, vegetables. As more and more savory ingredients make their way into our glass, a freshly squeezed carrot or homegrown herbal garnish can make all the difference. Liberation’s vegetable cordial dubbed Vegan War (B390) is an excellent case in point, featuring a clarified (see no. 3) mix of tomato, basil and carrot—with a good dose of vodka.

“We will certainly see more fresh food-related ingredients in 2019, especially vegetable juice. There’s the illusion it’s healthier.” Jamie Phanthanam, bartender at #FindThePhotoBooth

Vermouth on its own What’s the secret to an amazing martini, Manhattan or negroni? Vermouth, and recently, Bangkok’s been waking up to the wonderful, rich and complex charms of this cocktail shelf staple—and not just as a mixer. Specialist importers (B-Delicious, Brand Connect, Bootleggers) and bars (ToT, Just a Drink

Essentials 80/20. 1052-1054 Charoen Krung Soi 26, 099-118-2200 A Bar. 37-38/F, Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, 199 Sukhumvit Soi 22, 02-059-5555 Asia Today. 35 Soi Maitri Chit, 097-134-4704 Bamboo Bar. 1/F, Mandarin Oriental, 48 Charoen Krung Soi 40 (Oriental Avenue), 02-659-9000 Just A Drink Maybe. 44/3 Thonglor Soi 1, 095-341-9056 Ku Bar. 3/F, 469 Phra Sumen Rd., 091-731-9752 Liberation. Sukhumvit Soi 49, 093 654 2500 Rabbit Hole. 125 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 081-822-3392, 098-969-1335 Taan. 25/F, Siam @ Siam Design Hotel, 865 Rama 1 Rd., 065-3287374 Teens of Thailand. 76 Soi Nana, Charoen Krung Rd., 096-8460506 Tep Bar. 69-71 Soi Nana, Charoen Krung Rd., 098-4672944 Tropic City. 672/65 Charoen Krung Soi 28, 083-838-2750 Vesper. 10/15 Convent Rd., 02-235-2777 #FindThePhotoBooth. Sukhumvit Soi 11, 02-117-2636

ON THE BAR

SulBkk

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The buzz: Thonglor’s latest speakeasy is setting new trends with its upscale Korean gastrobar theme.

The decor: Surrounded by raw concrete walls with a mix of red bricks thrown in, the place exudes a grungy, industrial vibe. The bar is split into the bar area and two cozier seating areas.

The food: Korean fusion dishes like kimchi risotto (B320) and “K-Poutine” (B250), which comes with Korean beef gravy and

kimchi. Another must-try is the pork belly injeolmi (B350)—traditionally, injeolmi (pounded rice cake) is a Korean wedding dessert, but they’ve turned it into a savory dish, served with onion puree and seaweed cream. The Seared Spam Balls (B280) may not sound like haute cuisine, but they’re tasty, served with truffle mayo and Korean rice balls.

The drinks: The super-refreshing Sansachun Sangria (B350) uses sansachun (Korean rice wine)

topped with mixed fresh fruit and elderflower syrup. For something more adventurous, we highly recommend the Bulgogi Old Fashioned (B390), which uses palm sugar and unexpected Korean bulgogi sauce, served with side of dark chocolate and smoke for added flavor. The spirit-forward K-Town Boulevadier (B390) is another of our favorites.

The music: Expect tunes by internationally known Korean artists, though with heavier beats

than the typical cooey girl groups.

Yaeji, Giriboy, Dean, Zion, Primary and Crush are some of the names you’ll find on the playlist.

Why we’d come back: Just when you thought Bangkok nightlife was getting a little samey, along comes this place, bringing a whole new theme and a fresh dimension to our Korean pop culture obsession.

Thonglor Soi 10, 095-795-5396.

Open Wed-Mon 6pm-midnight

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health

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JANUARY 11, 2019

24

JUST BREATHE

Wellness Trends 2019 Looking for new ways to kick-start your 2019? Want an improved sense of well-being that doesn’t involve doing yoga someplace weird, on a surfboard, while drinking beer? We’ve asked Bangkok’s wellness experts to share what they think will be the biggest trends for this year. By Dhipkawee Sriyananda Selley

Stone Age Dieting

Burin Janchai, trainer at Aspire Club “Intermittent fasting, keto and primal diets are all examples of stone age or ‘paleo’ eating habits, rooted in the pre-agriculture era. It became popular recently because it works well with the Millennial. It’s true that diets like this have the potential to help you lose weight, increase strength and energy levels and overall enhance your performance, however, there are downsides too. I’d recommend anyone who wants to try this diet to first talk to a dietary specialist to avoid serious health problems.”

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Clean Eating

Be a better version of yourself with these mindfulness apps

Hybrid Workouts

Naya Ehrlich-Adam, founder and managing director of vegan restaurant Broccoli Revolution

Punn Chanrasmi, Thailand country manager of ClassPass fitness membership startup

“Through the power of social media, people are becoming more aware of how big food corporations raise animals for meat, the overuse of antibiotics, as well as the levels of chemicals and pesticides used on vegetables. [The food industry] typically does not care about our health, it’s strictly just for business! That is why people will take a closer look at their plates and ask themselves more questions—where did the produce come from? Is it safe for my health and my children? So I think this year, people will go for more natural, organic and healthy food. People will start supporting more local farmers, small entrepreneurs or even grow their own food.”

“Over the past few months, we’ve seen a large number of people diversify their workouts rather than hopping on a single trend. While popular workouts like strength training, cycling, barre, yoga and pilates have gained traction in the past year with many new locations opening up in prime areas to cater to the high demand, we’ve seen a rise in new classes and studio formats that blend different activities together to create a unique workout experience. These “hybrid” workouts can include mixing pilates, barre and TRX together, or mashing up unlikely combos like zumba and muay Thai. Right now studios are looking to differentiate themselves more than ever, and in line with that, people are beginning to seek for more originality. Our data reveals that over 80 percent of our members try a new workout within just two weeks of joining our platform.”

Natural beauty

Dr. Komgrib Leelaake, medical director of Wild Clinic and Organic Treat, one of Bangkok’s first organic medical spas “There are two, very clear opposite ends right now in Bangkok’s beauty clinics: ones that are all for cosmetic surgery and ones that are more about preserving your natural beauty. Around two to three years back, the arrival of the Korean plastic makeover show Let Me In inspired many Thais to get plastic surgery because they believed that that was how they could look better. The trend was also big among the celebrities here, which encouraged even more people to get facial work. But actually, there’s another big group of people who want to look better but feel that plastic surgery is a step too far. Thais and Asians in general are starting to be more accepting towards aging. What were previously considered “flaws”—freckles, birthmarks, acne scars, wrinkles or crows feet—are now being embraced. More people want to “age gracefully,” and are becoming more comfortable in their own skin. They are seeking out treatments or ways to “preserve” their natural beauty, without having to take extreme measures.

Functional Training

Aurimas “AJ” Juodka, owner of Crossover gym, which specializes in High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and fitness boot camps “People are realizing that going to the gym to do bicep curls doesn’t cut it, because we are not wired to work muscle in isolation. They’re discovering that functional training—replicating the movement that you engage in on a daily basis—prepares and improves your everyday strength and performance. This helps decrease the risk of injury and also promotes overall health and longevity.”

Headspace What: Meditation for beginners.

The app teaches you how to manage anxiety and stress, improve your breathing, and stay calm and focused.

Price: Free 30-day trial; B459/ month, B3,300/year and B13,900/lifetime.

Fabulous What: A personal life coach, assisting you to set up habits and routines. Its goal is to instill habits through “journeys”—simple, basic routines to improve your mindfulness, mental health and daily productivity.

Price: Free seven-day trial; B1,600/year.

Calm What: Guided meditation led by the pleasant voice of a male or female coach—ranging from three-minute to 25-minute sessions on topics like self-care, inner peace, focus and stress.

Price: Free seven-day trial; B1,550/year.

Stop, Breathe & Think What: An emotional self checkin that asks you to select the emotion that best describes how you’re feeling, then builds meditation and breathing techniques to help you based on that data.

Price: Free; B359/month or B2,000/year when upgrading to premium.

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neighborhood | punnawithi

Craft Intersect

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, JANUARY 11, 2019

25

Bike Cha

Aromdee Art & Studio

The Met Farm

Sukhumvit Soi 101/1

Surface Calm

Coffee & Breakfast

This local, residential neighborhood may look quiet on the surface, but explore a little deeper and you’ll find that Punnawithi is full of life. By Dhipkawee Sriyananda Selley

Bike Cha (3083 Sukhumvit Soi 101/1, 081-345-7773) serves cappuccino milk tea (B45) and matcha lattes (B60), while the allwhite Gert Cafe (86 Wachiratham Sathit Soi 8, 02-399-5131) offers cold drip coffee and frothy milk tea (both B70). Serious coffee maker Tinpresso’s (341/1 Wachiratham Sathit Soi 21, 081-636-9531) long list of drinks runs from an affogato Thai tea (B100) to a piccolo latte (B110)—perfect with a French butter croissant (B75). To satisfy your sweet tooth, try Caffeine Lab Cafe’s (S&S Sukhumvit Condo, Sukhumvit Soi 101/1) coconut cake rolls (B40-B95) with a hot toffee nut macchiato (B80), or Le Patissier Bakery & Coffee Studio’s (11 Sukhumvit Soi 101, 082459-6336) creme brulee (B65).

Lunch & Dinner Don’t miss neighborhood haunt Casa Pasta’s (169 Sukhumvit Soi 101/1, 02-398-7178) home-

made fettuccine alfredo (B230), or Sam Bai Thao Vietnamese Restaurant’s (Sukhumvit Soi 101, 02-311-6961) nam nueng (marinated grilled pork dumplings, from B90). Head to Krua Nai Fan (Punnawithi Soi 34, 02-331-4577) for flavorful southern Thai cuisine, or Seafood Land (Punnawithi Soi 28, 094-528-2662) for all-you-caneat BBQ seafood (B389/person) in a garden setting. Hua Seng Hong (3039 Sukhumvit Rd., 02730-5141) dishes out goong ob woonsen (steamed river prawns with glass noodles B220), while American-style diner Big Burger Pizza & Wings (368 Sukhumvit Soi 101/1, 02-746-1203) serves classic American grub (from B119).

Drinks Though the area isn’t saturated with bars, you can still find hidden gems like Craft Intersect (29, 1 Sukhumvit Soi 101/1, 095-2482838) with its rotating selection of beers (B240 for Stone IPA, or

Casa Pasta

B220 for Triple Pearl Weisse Pearl) and Zinc 101 Bar & Grill (309 Sukhumvit Soi 101/1, 02-0416446) for no-fuss local beers (B75 for a Singha) and chunky burgers (from B170). For a fine selection of German draught beers, Jim’s Burger & Beers (3095 Sukhumvit Soi 101/1, 085-660-8880) offers Weihenstephan Hefeweissbier (from B150) and many more.

Transport With BTS Punnawithi between 10 and 20 minutes’ walk away from much of the action, win motorsai is often the quickest option.

Accommodation Right by the BTS, Hue Sukhumvit (Sukhumvit Soi 62/3) offers 141 units from B10,000-25,000/ month. Close by, The Room Sukhumvit 62 (2288 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-332-9213) features 487 units from B18,000-60,000/ month, while The Tree Sukhumvit 64 (59 Sukhumvit Soi 64) houses

Battlefield Bangkok

149 units from B13,000-39,000/ month. Over at S&S Sukhumvit (188 Sukhumvit Soi 101/1, 02173-0001) the 810 units are priced from B8,500-35,000/month.

Visit Art enthusiasts can check out Aromdee Art & Studio (232/35 Punnawithi Soi 8, 080-519-9566) for jewelry design, basic drawing and ceramic workshops. Battlefield Bangkok (71 Sukhumvit Soi 101/1, 02-747-9719) stocks a huge range of games, as well as hosting regular competitions. For fresh organic vegetables, don’t miss The Met Farm (Wachiratham Sathit Soi 18, 063-146-9264) grocery store, or for a moment of serenity, Wat Dhammamongkol (132 Punnawithi Soi 20) is also nearby.

BK ASKS

What do you like about life on Punnawithi?

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TANYA LUECHAPATANAPORN, OWNER OF GERT CAFE “This old community seamlessly blends modern city life with Thai country living. There are plenty of traditional food stalls, international restaurants and hip cafes in walking distance of one another.”

MAYUREE PANDEE, OWNER OF AROMDEE ART & STUDIO “As soon as you come down from the BTS, you’ll find there’s Chinese steamed buns, bakeries, chic cafes and great street food. Plus, you can easily escape the chaos of city life by visiting Wat Dhammamongkol.”

ANNA SHAW, OWNER OF CAFFEINE LAB CAFE “Punnawithi still maintains its quiet, peaceful charm, even though it’s not that far from Bangkok’s city center.

It provides you the convenience of a modern lifestyle with restaurants, cafes and markets.”

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