BK E-Magazine 758, March 8 2019

it's free!

Taxi! The new play giving voice to untold Bangkok stories Sawaree, Chai Why Victory Monument rocks Carrot Tops Whose carrot cake is the pick of the crop?

Top Tables Champions BK’s new dining event starts now Go tk vote!

NO. 758 MAR 08, 2019. www.bkmagazine.com

How Free Are We? Academics and activists on their hopes for post-election Thailand

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page 3 Who's in charge?

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

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Your Country Needs You

upfront

This play gives voice to Bangkok’s disenfranchised

Art Director Ratchprapha Sunthornprasat Production Supervisor Komkrit Klinkaeo Graphic Designers Anunya Chobnitas, Wirankan Saiyasombut Photographer Poonsawat Suttama Video Content Manager Wanlop Rungkumjad Video Designer Saranya Laowtrakul Videographer Nattapol Srisukh Junior Video Editor Tham Rodjananaudomvutigul

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

cover

Activists and academics on how to fix Thailand

ASIA CITY STUDIO Managing Editor Dietrich Neu Associate Editor Sureepak Janyapat Senior Project Manager Chayanap Tongdadas Project Coordinator Sirinart Panyasricharoen Senior Developer Wasan Wangrach Developer Nopanun Laochunanun 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

Contributors Kathy MacLeod, Nuttha Kitsopha Interns Clara Howell, Jidapa Kanogsirima

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

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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

24 trending

Does intern culture have a problem in Bangkok?

26 wellness

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You’re planning a business trip to Hawaii. How much should you pay? a B28,000 for an economy class ticket that stops in Shanghai. b B200,000 for a first-class ticket with a three-hour layover. c B20.9 million charter.

Questioned about your work in an interview, you would… a Answer as accurately and honestly as possible. b Skirt around uncomfortable topics but basically try to please the interviewer. c Walk away, leaving a cardboard cut-out of yourself and throwing the heavy metal hand sign.

Here’s why Sukhothai is better than the beach

Where to find us!

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

Yes, it’s true, folks. Soft-handed civvy wimps like Sudarat and Thanathorn think we have too many generals! When in fact we only have five times more starred generals than the U.S.—and look where it’s gotten them. These upstarts think our defense budget would be better spent on hospitals and schools. Socialists! Would they have us become Cuba?

Or Denmark? Heck, we need MORE generals. In fact, you might want to consider becoming one. Think you have what it takes to lead this nation’s next generation of hardened military top-brass? Take our quiz.

You’re in New York for the night. How do you spend your time? a With a day trip to the Met followed by a tour of the Statue of Liberty and drinks at the High Line. b Dinner at a hipster tapas bar in Brooklyn before hitting up Manhattan to catch “Hamilton” on Broadway. c With a street hooker outside the Marriott, followed by a front-page NY Post splash and a call to the Thai embassy—diplomatic immunity, y’know.

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

Asia City Media Group

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Tune out of election fever with these spa deals

What kind of watch do you wear? a You don’t. When you need the time you simply use your phone. b A B12,000 Seiko you got for your birthday. c A B3.1 million RM29 Tourbillon edition, like the one Felippe Massa wears in Formula One. Asked to define democracy, you would say... a A system of government that places power in the hands of the people, allowing each member of society to vote freely on independently chosen political representatives. b A system of government in which the people choose their leaders, and ineffective politicians are voted out during elections. c A system of government that’s like potatoes and rice.

How did you do?

Mostly A. Oh dear, you’re no service-man, general or otherwise. In fact, you might even be Cambodian. Limit your military activity to games of laser-tag at the Holiday Inn.

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taste test

neighborhood

Bangkok’s best carrot cake

The long and short of Victory Monument

Mostly B. Close, but no star-studded epaulettes for you. If your connections are good enough you might make officer but let’s face it, you’re no Sarit.

Mostly C. Congratulations! A four-star uniform awaits together with a seat on the National Assembly for your retirement. Careful not to damage your massive cajones before you get there.

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upfront

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HOT OR NOT

NATURAL WINE

This theater group is giving voice to the masses

Pattarasuda “Bua” Anuman Rajadhon

It’s never been easy as a wine lover in Bangkok, but the task of finding creative, characterful and funky bottles has just been made way simpler.

As well as Wet, the wine bar from Gaggan sommelier Vladimir Kojic, Via Maris on Silom has also gone through a natural -wine rebranding, while you’ll also find it on the menu at Asia Today cocktail bar (see page 18).

CRAFT BEER We’re not attacking the product, we just reckon it’s time to drop the whole “craft” thing. There’s beer made with love by people who give a crap, and beer made by massive corporations that tastes like fizzy piss. Which type we drink depends how close it is to pay day.

INTERVIEW

Taxi Radio is a play by Nophand “Aon” Boonyai of Fullfat Theatre that vocalizes the fractured daily lives of Bangkokians, delving into social, spiritual and political problems. Four stories are told simultaneously, by actors Konthorn “Hong Tae” Taecholarn, Ornanong “Golf” Thaisriwong, Pradit “Tua” Prasartthong and Pattarasuda “Bua” Anuman Rajadhon.

“If it gets banned that would mean we are doing something right.”

THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

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How did you come up with this story?

Aon: One of the Fullfat members was writing a short story about taxis, which I developed into a play with a focus on Bangkok.

How long did it take you to work on it?

Aon: Two months—one to work on the scripts and plot and another on production.

What kind of message are you trying to send across?

Aon: The play represents the voice of everyone in society, whether they speak out or not.

Fullfat’s plays focus on social issues and aim to be accessible to people of all classes. When we started, we had no theater to perform in, so we performed in places like Warehouse 30.

Our audience is very varied, proving that plays don’t always have to be super artsy and niche.

Was it difficult to start out with?

Aon: Working on a play without a theater is difficult, because the location can be unpredictable, like no air conditioning, nowhere to rehearse, no sound system, no proper light design—but eventually we made it work. BACC was a great location, as the audience could explore other art before they came to see our play.

How did you all get into the theater?

Tua: I’ve always been involved in plays since I was in primary school.

Hong Tae: I studied architecture at Chula—I went there because I wanted to act, really. I didn’t enjoy studying too much so I wanted to do some fun activities on the side and I found theater.

Golf: When I was waiting for my university entrance results, I went to acting camps to keep me

occupied and I found that I liked it. Then when I got into university, I got involved in plays and became a member of B Floor theater.

Bua: When I went to school in England I acted in plays, so when I came back I set up Nuni production house. We work on all sorts of things.

How can we popularize theater in Thailand?

Aon: We can make plays more accessible, and easier for anyone to understand.

Hong Tae: We also need more talents to be involved—right now, the directors are also producers and we don’t even know how to promote our plays properly. The audiences are always the same faces.

Are there going to be any more rounds for Taxi Radio?

Aon: I’d like it to be in schools, so kids can learn more about theater, though I’m still thinking how to make that happen.

Any other cool projects coming?

Aon: I’m working on this project called “Blur Lines.” It’s a collaboration with five new-gen talents. There’s no plot—they all have the freedom to express themselves however they want, using theater as a communication device to explore their identities and send their own messages about growing up in this society. It should be out around April or May.

Taxi Radio touches on politics quite a bit, are you ever worried that it will be banned?

Aon: No, but if it gets banned that would mean that someone is listening to us and that we are doing something right. Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj

PALA PIZZA ROMANA Italy has spoken.

A new guidebook released by the Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce lists all the best Italian restaurants in Bangkok, according to Italian expats. But there’s one glaring omission: no Pala! Anyone who’s been to Asoke junction will know Pala as the place that screwed up your diet with its irresistible wafts of doughy goodness and risotto ball-stuffed window display.

USED CARS Drastic new measures to stop PM2.5 from once more darkening Bangkok’s skies. The Commerce Ministry has announced a ban on all used cars being imported into Thailand, while stopping short of banning used commercial vehicles like cranes and trucks.

The number of used cars imported into Thailand in 2018: one hundred. The number of new cars expected to be sold in 2019: one million.

by Kathy MacLeod (IG: @kathy_macleod)

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cover | election special

Democratic Voices Thailand last held a general election eight years ago, while it’s been over four years since the coup. A lot has changed. As Mar 24 approaches, we take a look at the election from the new-gen perspective, speaking to experts from different fields to unravel which parties are best positioned to tackle the country’s problems.

By Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj

Education Wiriyah Ruechaipanit is an activist and author at Eduzones, a collective that aims to improve the quality and accessibility of Thai education.

What is the main problem with the Thai education system?

The teaching and testing processes as well as the end-goal are not clear, which leads to very limited results that don’t tell us much about the children’s abilities. We have very few critical thinkers.

What does Thailand need to do to resolve this?

How do you think the education system will progress post-election?

We need quality teachers and officers to oversee education policy and create clearer goals. Our ways of teaching and testing are outdated. Education shouldn’t be just for school, but for everyone and with today’s technology, it can be made easy.

It’s hard to have hope in the election and education system, since when the political semester is over, the process has to start over again. We need to start helping ourselves. The parents and community should lead the way and seek government support.

What do you hope to see from the government regarding education?

Best party on education:

I want to see officers who take responsibility.

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Unemployment, dek wan [teenage biker gangs], drugs and teen pregnancy are all the result of education. The government should be looking at the statistics and aiming to decrease these problems through education.

Future Forward party.

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cover | election special

Gender Equality

Best

2001 Thaksin Shinawatra (Thai Rak Thai) was elected as prime minister, January.

Khaek

Chitsanupong “Best” Nithiwana is a young LGBT activist and member of iSpot’s award-winning LGBT innovation team. Lakkana “Khaek” Punwichai (AKA Kham Phaka) is a writer, columnist and news commentator.

Does Thailand have gender equality problems?

From an LGBT angle, there is some inequality, but it’s not the worst in the world.

Though we don’t experience physical abuse, LGBT mockery is viewed as lighthearted rather than harmful and we still don’t have any laws to protect LGBT people.

Best:

Kham Phaka: In Thailand, we don’t have laws that restrict women—we actually have more female students in universities—which makes us seem very progressive. Culturally, however, we still have problems—for example, the university professor who said that trans people shouldn’t be teachers because they’re bad role models. I don’t think queer culture exists in Thailand as we have very firm gender preconceptions, which trans people are also subject to.

Should Thailand legalize samesex marriage?

Best: I want to see marriage equality, however, some people think it will solve everything, but we are yet to achieve basic rights.

Kham Phaka: I don’t really believe in mar-

Coup number 12— Sonthi Boonratklin, army commander and police commission general overthrew Thaksin’s government in September and made Sarayud Chulanont prime minister in October.

follow a 19th century tradition? Marriage is only good for official things like getting a mortgage together or signing hospital papers. A partner should have the right to do that without being husband or wife.

What do you hope to see from the government regarding gender equality?

Best: Sometimes LGBT issues are used as a marketing campaign but in reality we never get any real rights—it’s like when you see tribal people being used to market tourism. We want the government to actually see that LGBT rights will benefit our economy.

Kham Phaka: I’m not expecting immediate results but I want to see the right process, where everyone has a voice—through debate, we could come to a better understanding.

Best party for gender equality:

Best: Pheu Thai and Future Forward seem to have a clear stand on their policies.

Khaek: I would vote for any democratic party that is against the coup.

riage, if you’re LGBT, why would you want to

Environment Tara Buakamsri is the country director for Thailand at Greenpeace Southeast Asia.

Can you tell us more about Thailand’s environmental issues?

We’re among five countries that account for 60-percent of plastic pollution in the oceans. Climate change is one of our biggest issues—we are already seeing prolonged droughts, decreased agricultural and fishery yields, violent flooding, sea level rise and health-related issues. The future holds water management challenges, heightening of conflict over resources, a flood of new immigrants and refugees, and damage to the tourism industry. Bangkok, in particular, has been ranked no.3 [after Manila and Dhaka] on the list of world cities most vulnerable to rising seas.

What would it take for Thailand to be more aware of this crisis?

There should be a space for genuine public participation in environmental policy.

We need to highlight the importance of the human rights obligations related to the enjoyment of a safe, clean, sustainable and healthy environment.

What do you hope to see from the government regarding this issue?

Though the government has come up with a 20-year environmental policy to address environmental challenges and mitigate climate change, action on this policy has been limited.

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2006

What can the government do to address the environmental situation?

Firstly, Thailand must enforce the environmental laws it already has in place. Next, we must go beyond vested interests—often, the companies carrying out Environmental Impact Assessments are the same ones that stand to benefit from that particular project. Also, our policies on marine and coastal resources management are not in sync, which results in ineffective and unsustainable development that fails to address issues like coastal erosion. In addition, the government needs to take decisive action on sustainable alternatives to the agriculture chemicals that are wreaking havoc on plant and animal populations.

Best party on the environment: It lies on parties like the Commoner Party or Green Party, though they are very small.

2007 Cr: Chris Greenberg

People’s Power Party, AKA Thaksin’s rebound party, came to power in the first election since the military coup. Samak Sundaravej, then the party’s leader, became prime minister of Thailand.

2008 Samak Sundaravej was terminated for having worked as the emcee of two cooking shows while in office, in violation of a law that forbids government ministers from holding any other paid employment. In September, Somchai Wongsawat (People’s Power) was elected as prime minister by the National Assembly.

2008 Abhisit Vejjajiva (Democrat) was appointed as prime minister after the Constitutional Court stripped Thaksin’s brother-in-law Somchai Wongsuwan of the title in December.

2011 Yingluck Shinawatra (Pheu Thai, succeeding People’s Power) was elected as Thailand’s first female prime minister, July.

2014 Coup number 13—Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha came to power, May.

2019 Thailand’s 26th general election, March.

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cover | election special

Art & Culture

Human Rights

Pawit Mahasarinand is the director of Bangkok Art and Culture Centre.

How has the work of Thai artists changed since we’ve been under the coup?

Let us salute, with whichever fingers, our junta for creating a great source of content for artists to work with. Contemporary art promotes freedom of speech and encourages people to both listen to and respect different opinions—it prospers in a truly democratic country. Unfortunately, that’s not Thailand. Here, a lot of people use the word “harmony” but in fact they mean “unification.” That said, there have been works produced during this period that make me grin. For example, B-Floor Theatre’s “Bang Lamerd,” which is part of a recently published anthology of performance scripts titled Micro Politics. I remember when I was watching this performance, there were military personnel taking videos—had there been art appreciation classes in our schools, perhaps they would have understood the meaning of the performer’s physical movement. Likewise, no one asked for the paintings in Vasan Sitthiket’s retrospective exhibition I Am You at BACC to be removed. But maybe that’s why our annual grant from the city has been removed.

How do you think the art, culture and music scene is going to progress post-election?

I’m not sure “progress” is the right word here. It looks like the new government won’t be that different from the current one. On that note, I recall last year when the PM paid a visit to BACC—in reality, it was more like a one-minute walk to get through to the BTS station; as he was about to pass through the door, he looked up and said, “What building is this?” I’m not a pessimist but I don’t see any art and culture policies on any political parties’ billboards.

HOW DOES THE NEW BALLOT WORK? In elections past, voters got two ballots— one for a constituency representative and the other for a party-list candidate— which they could cast to two different parties. This year, voters will only be given one ballot, so they will only be able to vote for a single party; the votes will then be weighted to establish constituency and party-list representatives. There will be 500 individuals in total in the house of representatives—350 constituency representatives and 150 party-list candidates—combined with 250 senators that Prayuth gets to pick himself. All 750 will then vote in the parliament for a prime minister. Whoever gets 376 votes will get the role. Prayuth is likely to have a huge head start, since his 250-strong selection will most probably vote for him.

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What can the government do to improve this scene?

First, I think the government really needs to understand that culture is a way of living, thinking, creating and expressing. For a lot of people here, culture is limited to traditions. Second, the culture ministry needs to increase its impact by cooperating more with other government agencies and projects, and not only in terms of creative economy. At the recent forum at BACC, many political parties said that artists need to prove that their works have economic value as well as aesthetic value. It is quite alarming that many cultural policy makers have been looking to South Korea as the marketing king of arts and culture. What Japan has done with its culture over the decades is more sustainable—how both the traditional and modern parts of it happily coexist. Finally, in terms of support from the private sector, the culture ministry should rethink their tax refund benefits. At the moment, you must donate directly to the culture ministry’s fund, then artists must write proposals and pray they get the support.

What centralization! By contrast, donors can support schools directly for the same tax benefit.

Sirikan “June” Charoensiri is a Thai human rights defender and lawyer.

Has the military government affected freedom of speech?

After the military coup, The National Council for Peace and Order [NCPO] implemented a new institutional and legal framework which severely limits the exercise of human rights within Thailand. Article 44 grants the head of the NCPO unfettered power to issue any executive, legislative and judicial orders with impunity; since May 2014, this article has been invoked to issue over 200 orders including prohibition of gatherings of five or more persons for political purposes; power to detain persons for up to seven days without charges; and granting military personnel powers of law enforcement, among others. Under the military government, I have observed the collapse of the rule of law, militarization of justice, and constitutionalization of dictatorial powers.

How would you like Thailand to improve on human rights?

I hope to see them conduct research on the current problems facing arts and culture in Thailand and find ways to solve them. I hope they do not repeat the same mistake of spending B17 million of our tax money on the opening ceremony of the next Thailand Art Biennale, but instead really support as many art and culture projects as they can.

Firstly, they need to separate the military from civilian governance. Next, all legislation issued by the NCPO should be reviewed by an independent organization and remedies should be offered to those who have been negatively affected by the military’s use of power. The criminal justice process is in need of reform. All verdicts that guaranteed the success of the coup, granted the NCPO and government officials exemption from legal liability or violated human rights should be annulled. Any new civilian government will have to act decisively to address these issues by ensuring that military personnel are weeded out of legislative, judicial and civilian administrative offices. All stakeholders will have to work toward the restoration of the rule of law, democracy and the protection of human rights.

Best party on culture:

Best party on Human rights:

If the election was tomorrow, I’d vote for Future Forward Party.

The Future Forward Party, Pheu Thai Party, the Commoner Party, Seri Ruam Thai Party, Thai Raksa Chart Party.

What do you hope to see from the government regarding this issue?

Social Welfare

Manit Intharapim is an activist for disabled rights in Thailand who runs Accessibility Is Freedom (www.accessibilityisfreedom.org) network.

What do you hope to see from the government regarding social welfare and healthcare?

Though there are some satisfactory policies in place, there are still some problems in the details. Special benefits for disabled people are still not covered at all hospitals nationwide. The government offers a loan to disabled people to help start their career, but the only way to pay it back is at 7-Eleven—accessibility is not so easy when you’re in a wheelchair. If we are to move to Thailand 4.0, why not offer more convenient options like Internet banking?

What can the government do to improve social welfare and healthcare?

Every disabled person has different needs. Some need professional helpers, some can’t leave the bed, or some, like me, are in a wheelchair but are otherwise healthy. Government support should take two forms, one is financial, the other is helping individuals to become more independent. On top of physical and mental problems, disabled people face so many obstacles just leaving the house. Footpaths, skywalks, road crossings, buses, taxis, boats and buildings are mostly inaccessible and there’s a lack of help and

support. I want to see a more solid timeline from the government for addressing this and creating more consistent standards everywhere to help us become stronger and more independent members of society.

Best party on social welfare: Regardless of who gets into parliament, we will happily work with them to push this country to be for “everyone.”

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hit list | 22 new reasons to love bangkok

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Shop your favorite indie designer labels at Siwilai’s pop-up store

SHOPPING

When one of the coolest concept stores in town opens a pop-up, you know it’s going to be filled with limited-edition goodies. At Siwilai Market Market, you can browse through a curated selection of exclusive items from of-the-moment designer labels like Maison Kitsune (B9,000 for white high-top sneakers), Sacai (B26,900 for a typewriter pattern shirt) and British leather notebook-maker Smythson (B2,500). Afterwards, recharge with light bites and drinks (B100 for an Americano) at Siwilai Cafe. 2/F, Central Embassy, Phloen Chit Rd., 02-160-5809-12. Open daily 10am-10pm, now until Mar 31.

NUMEROLOGY

5 anti-pollution skincare products to protect from pesky PM2.5 B792

The Body Shop Japanese Matcha Tea Pollution Clearing Mask

B1,710

Three Cleansing Oil

B2,100

Shiseido Essential Energy Moisturising Cream

B3,405

FITNESS

APPEALING PROSPECT

CARS

02 This new Swedish gym

03 Bangkok gets new taxi

04 The British style icon

will keep you active 24/7 Sathorn office workers wanting to squeeze in some gym time can now head to Fitness24Seven’s latest opening at Sathorn Thani building. The 24-hour fitness club from Sweden allows flexible access for members to workout around the clock, seven days a week. The 45- to 60-minute group training classes include a range of workouts from yoga and body combat, to Sh’bam and bootcamp, while a 60-minute personal training session costs from B900/ session. For a workout free from self-consciousness, also try the fully-equipped women’s gym area.

Membership costs from B1,299/month. Sathorn Thani, 90 N Sathorn Rd., 092-485-6828. Open 24/7.

app to rival Grab and Line Taxi HaHa Taxi App is here to help you avoid crappy experiences. Howa International Co, the operator of Taxi Radio and Suvarnabhumi Taxi Cooperative, has invested B20 million to equip cars with digital displays that show the driver’s name, photo, distance traveled and taxi fares. The app targets premium passengers with a surcharge of B50 and a fee of B150 for advance bookings, available up to three hours in advance. Besides paying by cash, you can use your debit or credit card. Available for download on iOS and Android devices.

turns 60

What: Mini Cooper S Hatch Ice Blue Edition Price: B2.8 million for 3-door; B2.9 million for 5-door Why? That sexy retro blue hue channels Mini’s Swinging Sixties past, and celebrates the company’s 60th birthday. The best part: there’s not even a premium over the standard Mini Cooper S’s price, yet you get all the John Cooper trim on top of other cool details. But here’s the catch: not everyone gets to buy one. You’ll have to tell Mini about yourself first as part of an application process. The few who are selected then have to pay a B100,000 booking fee on top of the list price to receive their shiny, personalized, limited-edition wheels.

Allies of Skin All-Day Pollution Repair Mask

Shop Talk

B3,500

Shu Uemura Anti/ Oxi+ Pollutant & Dullness Clarifying Cleansing Oil

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How to spend your hardearned baht.

BUY IT SAMSONITE COSMOLITE SPINNER (FROM B17,100) Invest in reliable luggage for your next big vacation.

BIN IT LEATHER STUDDED BRACELET Are you in a punk band? Didn’t think so.

So take it off!

BARGAIN IKEA For every B10,000 spent on a complete Ikea METOD kitchen, receive a free B1,000 gift card (deals runs until Mar 17).

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hit list | calendar

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NIGHTLIFE

LIVE MUSIC

2019 REDBULL3STYLE WORLD CHAMPION: J ESPINOSA The San Francisco-hailing DJ will spin everything from hiphop to dance music. Mar 7, 9pm-2:30am. Penta, 582/2324 Sukhumvit Soi 63 (Ekkamai), 086-408-7734. B300 in advance; B400 on the door, includes one drink.

LUCKY TAPES AND TENDRE Japanese soul pop bands perform live with support from Thai indie soul band Pla Nin Tem Ban. Mar 10, 7pm. RCA Live Arena, 23/92-94 RCA Rd., 098-974-6974. B1,100 in advance at Ticketmelon or B1,400 on the door.

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Maroon 5 return for fifth Bangkok gig

VIBE SOUNDSYSTEM Vibe to a blend of dancehall, hip-hop, reggae and drum ‘n’ bass with artists including Mizuyo, Sticky Keys and U-Key. Mar 9, 9pm-1am. 12 x 12, 810/22 Thonglor Soi Thararom 2, 094-260-4713. B200.

BK Pick BOHEMIAN ROOFTOP PARTY Free your soul at this ‘80s and ‘90s rooftop party, with freeflow beer, wine, cocktails and soft drinks from 7-9pm (B200 for ladies, B600 for men). Mar 9, 7pm-2am. Mojjo Rooftop Lounge and Bar, 12 Sukhumvit Soi 24, 02-011-1111.

CONCERT

Bangkok just can’t get enough of Maroon 5 and thankfully the feeling’s mutual. On Mar 9 the American pop-rock band will return for their fifth Bangkok gig as part of their Red Pill Blues tour of Asia, Australia and Europe. Expect recent hits like their 2017 Cardi B collab, “Girls Like You,” as well as oldies like their 2002 hit “She Will Be Loved” (anyone else feeling old here?). Tickets start from B3,000 at Thaiticketmajor. Mar 9, 7pm. Impact Challenger, Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani.

HEALING BKK Release your emotions with a night of ambient, noise and experimental techno music from local, French and Belgian DJs. Mar 12, 8pm12am. Jam, Soi Rong Nam Khaeng (Charoen Rat Soi 1), 089-889-8059. B160.

COMM//UNITY WITH BASIC SOUL UNIT

FILM

06 Celebrate International Women’s Day at this female film festival To celebrate International Women’s Day Converse has teamed up with Bangkok Screening Room to present Fem Film Festival 2019. Taking place through Mar 10, the event will feature films (with Thai subtitles) that explore the struggles and achievements of women in all areas of life, including I Am Not A Witch (2017) by Zambian writer/director Rungano Nyoni (3:45pm, Mar 9) and the 1996 U.S. supernatural cult classic The Craft (Mar 10, 6:45pm). Talks include the Thai feminist, author and social critic Lakana Panvichai, better known by her pen name Kham Phaka. Bangkok Screening Room, Sala Daeng Soi 1, 094-125-9906. B150.

COMEDY

07 Jim Gaffigan promises a night of good,

clean fun

Get ready to laugh on Mar 22 because the Grammy-nominated “clean” comic Jim Gaffigan is hitting Bangkok’s Scala Theatre with “The Quality Time Tour.” The comedian, actor, writer, producer and two-time New York Times best-selling author is one of the world’s highest-grossing stand-up comedians and has most recently received recognition for his comedy special Noble Ape, in which he lays his personal life and wife’s medical crisis bare. He also has five specials streaming exclusively on Netflix—three of which have received Grammy nominations. Tickets start from B1,800 at ComedyClubBangkok.com.

Mar 22, 7pm. Scala Theatre, 256 Rama 1 Rd., 02-251-2861.

SUMMER-READY

GEAR UP FOR SONGKRAN WITH THESE THREE WET ‘N’ WILD PARTIES BLAST POOL SERIES - SPRING BREAK Spanish DJs Alex Ferrer, Adiero + Nukier and Road to Mana spin techno by the pool all afternoon. Mar 9, 2-9pm. DoubleTree by Hilton, 18/1 Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02-649-6666. B400 including one drink, or B800 including one-hour free flow.

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WESTIN POOL PARTY Spend the afternoon partying or chilling by the pool before hitting the after-party at Levels.

Mar 9, 1-9pm. The Westin Grande, 259 Sukhumvit Soi 19, 02-207-8000. B400 including free-flow from 1-2pm.

KARMA KRUISE 5.0 Stay above water at this six-hour boat party on the Chao Phraya with local and international DJs including Sunju Hargun, Sarayu, Tornado Wallace and Samantha Nicole, followed by an after-party at Safe Room. Mar 16, 2pm.

Departs from Asiatique, 2194 Charoenkrung Rd., 087-0611117. From B1,200.

Hong Kong-born electronic music DJ Basic Soul Unit will lead a night of underground techno and electronic jams.

Mar 15, 8pm-2am. De Commune, 1/F, Liberty Plaza, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 088-419-7380. B200-400 includes one Jagermeister shot.

BK Pick HOLI FESTIVAL IN BKK Celebrate Holi with paint powder, dubstep and psychedelic trance courtesy of Bangkok’s Riddim Syndicate and Pzychobiz. Mar 20, 7pm1am. The Overstay, Charan Sanit Wong Soi 40, 064-7234975. Free.

ART

POTS-THE VESSEL An exhibition by The Potters of Thailand Club that aims to cast simple ceramic objects made by international artists in a new light. Through Mar 28, 9am-4pm. The National Gallery, 4 Chao Fa Rd., 092226-3596. Free.

DIN CLAY TON EXHIBITION Combining Thailand’s Ratchaburi pottery making-technique with Berlin art. Mar 8-30, 10am-9pm. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02214-6630. Free.

LOVELY BLOSSOMS An exhibition by Phookpan Chairat and Supmanee Chaisansuk showcasing paintings of flowers. Through Mar 24. Sathorn 11 Art Space, 404 Sathorn Soi 11, 02-0041199. Free.

TENDERNESS LOST BY AURELE LOSTDOG A series of paintings, drawings and seven “Lost Dog” sculptures. Mar 8-Apr 30, 10am-6:30pm. PT Gallery, 48-58 Charoenkrung Soi 30, 02-266-4344. Free.

IN LOVE: EXHIBITION BY KANIS Cute illustrations on the topic of love. Mar 16-Apr 1, 10am7pm. 10mL Cafe Gallery, 65/21 Vibhavadi Rangsit Soi 16/6, 089-465-6915. Free.

BK Pick TIME FINE ART EXHIBITION How do you define time? Nine artists answer this question through fine art. Mar 16-Apr 30, 6-9pm. 333Gallery, 23 Trok Rongnamkaeng, Yotha Rd., 081-845-1371. Free.

WORKSHOPS & FAIRS

BK Pick RAW COMEDY OPEN MIC Check out local comedians, newbies and if you’re lucky, professionals trying out new material. Mar 20, 8-10pm. Raw Comedy, 151 Soi Sukhumvit 13, 082-6290312. B100.

HEXER PRESENTS SABURA German DJ Sabura will perform a euphoric techno set alongside local producer and DJ Hexer. Mar 22, 9pm-2am.

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

Free before 11pm; B200 after.

SPORTS WORLD EXPO 2019 A sale of equipment, sports-related products and accessories, including new launches and clearance items.

Mar 15-24, 10am-10pm. Impact Arena, Exhibition and Convention Center, Muang Thong Thani Popular 3 Rd., 02-833-4455. Free.

3/1/19 8:17 PM

Tap Map1 New.indd 2

2/27/19 4:10 PM

Tap Map2 New.indd 2

2/27/19 4:11 PM

travel | sukhothai

n

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2019

16

Banhom Kliendin

This Feels Ancient

Sweet Rice Cafe

Waterfalls, caves and ruins make Sukhothai an escape like no other.

by Kankanok Wichiantanon.

S

ukhothai’s grand palace ruins are the awe-inspiring cultural escape on your doorstep. Whether as a stop on your yearly Chiang Mai pilgrimage or as a long weekend getaway in its own right, this 13th-14th century city boasts some of the most spectacular cultural sites in Thailand.

But it’s not all temple hopping.

Lose the idea that Sukhothai lacks excitement and get enchanted by its back streets and natural surroundings.

Where to go Sukhothai province is divided into two zones Muang Mai (the old town) and Muang Gao (the new town), which are around 20 minutes’ drive apart. For a big slice of history, head to Sukhothai Historical Park, where majestic ruins and towering restored temples and monuments stand testament to the significant impact Thailand’s former capital had on the country’s politics, culture and architecture.

UNESCO has marked 193 world heritage sites on over 117-million-sq-meters of land, which are best explored by bike or golf buggy. Outside the northeast city wall stands Wat Si Chum, a large square-shaped shrine or mondop, which houses Phra Achana, an impressive 15-meter high, 11-meter-wide Buddha image.

Inside, the stone walls are engraved with over a hundred tales entailing the establishment of the Sukhothai Kingdom.

What to do Those with a sense of adventure can head to Chao Ram Cave—the journey is not for the faint-hearted, comprising a motorcycle ride past a beautiful lake and deep into the forest, followed by a few hours hiking up trails and finally climbing the last section to reach the cave.

Another intrepid but rewarding trip involves climbing the five rocky levels of Sai Rung Waterfall inside Ramkhamhaeng National Park, around an hour’s drive from the city. The journey may be tough, but you’ll be compensated with a refreshing dip in the cold water.

Local eats Anyone from the province knows that the ka nom jeen (rice noodle, B40) at Khanom Chin Ban Na (356/12 Mueang Kao Rd., 055-633274) is not to be missed. Conveniently located

TravelFeature-BK#758-8MAR2019.indd 16

Wat Si Chum

on the way to Sukhothai Historical Park, the noodles here are infused with different flavors and colors—butterfly pea, carrot, and pumpkin—served as a set along with varieties of soups placed inside little clay pots. Another must-eat is the Sukhothai-style noodles (B40) at Jae Hae (6/10, Jarodrithitong Rd., 055-611901), an old-school wooden house that’s been serving flavorful bowls of the city’s delicacy for decades. For something fancier, hit up Mai Krang Krung (139, Jarodrithitong Rd., 055-621882), where brightly colored walls hung with vibrant local fabrics meet dark wood furnishings for an ultra-Thai vibe. The menu is filled with comforting central-northern food, like kao kluk kapi (shrimp paste rice, B60) and steamed rice dumplings with creamy coconut sauce (B30).

Cafe hopping Traipse a raised boardwalk cutting through a field of yellow Sesbanias to reach the windmill-style woodland eatery, Banhom Kliendin (www.fb.com/Banhomkliendin). Head to the porch out back, where you can dip your toes in a cool running stream as you slurp on Sukhothai-style bamee (egg noodles) with choices of pork tom yum and juicy braised duck for as little as B15 a bowl. The dessert menu changes daily, but you can always rely on there being plenty of cake. Equally scenic, Sweet Rice Cafe (bit.ly/2tqpvj1) sits amid English country-style gardens. The two-story wooden restaurant is decorated with white and pink walls, dangling plants and colorful floral cushions with a glass house extension adding to the garden feel. The menu offers classic Thai dishes as well as a high tea set, featuring tea, cakes and selected Thai desserts (B169).

Sukhothai Treasure Resort

When to go While Sukhothai can be visited at any time of year, the city really comes alive for Loy Krathong. The festival may have just passed, but head there in November to see krathongs floating down the river, flying lanterns, light installations and cultural performances taking place around the province—we suggest chilling at Sukhothai and Sri Satchanalai historical parks. Visit www.loykrathong.in.th for more information.

Where to stay Nestled between vast rice fields, the beautiful, contemporary Sukhothai Treasure Resort (18/2 Moo 4 Jarodrithitong Rd, T. Bankluay, 055611-555. www.sukhothaitreasure.com), and spa lies just a few kilometers from Sukhothai Historical Park. Emphasizing sustainability, the place is powered by solar panels and has an on-site farm. The spacious 30- to 92-sq-meter rooms come decked out in minimalist, contemporary style with white-washed walls—rates start at B3,500 for the superior room and B4,900 for the Sriwilai suite. Alternatively, check into the Sriwilai Resort & Spa (214 Mueang Kao Rd., 055697-445. www.sriwilaisukhothai.com) for Lanna architectural charm, four-poster beds and a nightly rate around B3,900.

How to get there Return flights with Bangkok Airways (www. bangkokair.com) start at around B3,000. To drive from Bangkok, it’ll take about six hours.

2/28/19 1:40 PM

travel | news

17

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2019

THAILAND

09 BK’s Thailand-wide

08

sister site is your ticket to awesome travels

Stay in a former royal residence near Hua Hin

13

Are you longing for more BK-style insight into destinations across Thailand? Then you’re in luck, because we’ve recently launched Thailand Hot Spots, your new go-to for the latest travel news, guides and tips for everywhere from Phuket, Hua Hin and Samui, to Chiang Mai and beyond. Whether you’re looking for the most picturesque viewpoints on Phuket, the top attractions on Samui or the best golfing destinations in Thailand, Hot Spots has you covered for your next big trip. Stay tuned via the website (hotspots. asia-city.com) or Facebook page (www. fb.com/thailandhotspots) to be the first to hear about what’s hot beyond Bangkok.

14

CHONBURI

PHUKET

10 Pattaya’s huge luxury

11 Get away from it all

Before Ritz-Carlton and St Regis, Thailand had the Royal Cliff (www.royalcliff.com). Pattaya’s grand dame of the hi-so circuit has been welcoming big-haired ladies for weekends on the coast since the ‘70s. They come for peninsula views, a private beach and swimming pools that would look at home in a Slim Aarons photo. Now, the resort’s given itself the biggest makeover in years. The charm of its wood-and-bronze interiors has not been lost beneath major renovations that now also include marble bathrooms, IPTV (meaning you can stream your favorite shows), and cozy purple sofas (from B4,900/night).

Surrounded by a jungle of mature trees, Simply ‘ism (www.fb.com/Simplyism) sees a two-story white house turn into a chilled out cafe. Lying 40 minutes’ drive from the bustling city center, you can get a taste of the slow-life with lunch on their canalside wooden deck, or take a seat at the palm-fringed counter with a slice of their fudgy, flourless chocolate cake (B95) paired with a cold glass of milky, rich and bittersweet cocoa (B80).

They also serve a selection of savory Western and Thai plates. Inside, the open space keeps it simple with warm woods and white brick.

hotel has undergone an elegant renovation

PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN

Dating back to the 1800s, the all-villa De Chaochom (www.dechaochom.com) was formerly the summertime residence of Chao Chom Manda Mhod, the royal mother of Prince Abhakara Kiartivongse of Chumphon. To see where the royal family spent their time, opt for one of the two beachfront properties, Lookmai (58 sq-meters) and Metha (36 sq-meters, B4,500/night), whose clean, white colonial designs feature glossy blond wood floors and white wood carvings. For something more modern, the contemporary, squareshaped pool villas (70 sq meters, B4,900/night) come with bedrooms that open straight onto the pool. All-day Thai and Western dining comes courtesy of onsite restaurant Ruen Chaochom set along the quiet, crowd-free beachfront. For more royal exploration, the Klai Kangwon Royal Summer Residence is just a few minutes’ drive away.

New_TravelNews-BK#758-08MAR2019.indd 17

at this whitewashed canalside cafe

3/1/19 8:18 PM

food & drink | news

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 8 , 2019

18

HOT OFF THE PASS

Notes from the Bangkok food scene

12

BK’s latest dining series with Bangkok’s best chefs starts now

THE TOPS

Top Tables Champions— BK Magazine’s new dining series with the award-winning chefs of Top Tables—is officially open for business!

We’ve partnered with over 20 of the best-loved restaurants in Bangkok to offer diners amazing offers on fixed price menus and other culinary experiences from Mar 22-Apr 7. Just how good?

Prix fixe menus start from just B1,500++ per person at restaurants where at other times of the year you could be waiting months to book. As well as Top Tables Top 30 venues like L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon (No.3 in Top Tables 2018, 1 Michelin star), Enoteca Italiana (No.24 in Top Tables 2017) and 80/20 (No. 5 in Top Tables 2018), we’ve also partnered with some of the hottest new spots in town. Names like Sorn (one Michelin star), The Front Room at Waldorf Astoria and R.Haan (one Michelin star) will also be giving you a taste of what they’re up to. For the full list and to make your reservations, visit bktoptables.com/champions. With deals this good and only a limited number of covers per night, advance booking is essential.

As sponsor for Top Tables Champions, Citi credit card members receive a special complimentary dish when booking with Citi credit cards. BK Top Tables has been independently ranking Bangkok’s 100 best restaurants for over 10 years. Don’t miss the 2019 edition free with BK Magazine on Mar 29.

Upstairs

WHO RUNS THE WORLD?

KANPAI!

ISLAND SPICE If you’re yearning for some fiery southern grub, head to Grand Hyatt’s Erawan Tearoom through Mar 17 when they’ll be rolling out Phuket staples like moo hong (stewed pork belly, B280) and gaeng lhueng (spicy soup) with catfish egg and young coconut shoot (B550).

SEVENTH HEAVEN

13 Celebrate the best female 14 Sake lovers should book ahead for this special chefs from Bangkok and pairing dinner beyond This Mar 8-9, Women in Gastronomy will see a lineup of top local female chefs and restaurateurs lead speeches, discussions, while a multi-chef street food lunch comes from talents such as 80/20’s Saki Hoshino and Front Room’s Rungthiwa “Fae” Chummonkhon (Mar 8, from B1,900). On Mar 9, a six-course Gala Dinner (B4,900 or B6,900 with wine-pairing) will be held by Italian chef Cristina Bowerman of Rome’s Michelin-starred Glass Hostaria and Top Chef Thailand winner Chudaree Debhakam. Banyan Tree Hotel, 21/100 Sathorn Rd., 02-679-1200.

NATURE’S BEST Proof that natural wine really is on the up comes in the news that Asia Today has now added it to the menu. Word has it they also have homemade sausages in the works—expect different spices and flavors to arrive in April.

Head to Sushi Zo on Mar 30, when they’ll be holding a special sake-pairing omakase dinner. With a focus on Niigata prefecture’s Kubota brand, there will be three types sake on offer to pair with 18 courses.

Diners will have the chance to sample junmai daiginjo, a smooth and mellow A-grade sake. Also on the bill are full-flavored junmai, which is made with only rice, water and koji mold—no added alcohol—and medium bodied junmai ginjo. Dinner with be priced at B7,000, plus an additional B3,900 for sake-pairing.

G/F, Athenee Tower, 63 Wireless Rd., 02-168-8490.

15 Secondary cuts reach new heights at 100 Mahaseth Chef Chalee Kader is taking his mastery of secondary cuts to new heights with 100 Mahaseth’s new set menu. Priced between B1,500 and B1,700, Isaan and northern Thai flavors still dominate throughout the seven courses. A flavor-packed catfish larb served atop a fermented fish crisp is followed by generous Thai cafeteria-style platters of steamed rice, fried tripe, beef jerky curry and fermented goat ribs— brined in fish sauce and hung overnight before being charcoal-grilled. Finish with a stalk-to-fruit banana dessert.100 Mahaset Rd., 02-235-0023. Open daily 11:30am-11pm.

BUZZING Caffeine fiends, start gearing up because on Mar 14-17, Thailand Coffee Fest is back. The event will take over Impact Exhibition Hall 5-6 with workshops, talks and, of course, a whole lot of coffee.

YOU SAID WHAT?

The news in online foodie posts

“...You think thousand island dressing is “tasty” on a taco at Calimex??

Mayo does not belong ANYWHERE near a taco...” - FB USER PHOEBE STORM ON BK’S TACO TASTE TEST.

New_F&BNews-BK#758-8MAR2019.indd 18

“Forgot to mention the importance of Bolan in this story.”

FB USER BILLY BUOY MAN QUESTIONS OUR PIECE ABOUT THE NEW WAVE OF CHEFS REDEFINING THAI CUISINE.

“What a joke these small brewers need to manufacture overseas.” FB USER IGOR PRAHIN ON SIVILAI, A NEW THAI CRAFT BEER THAT’S PRODUCED IN VIETNAM.

3/1/19 8:19 PM

dining reviews

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2019

19

La Scarpetta

La Scarpetta HHH Italian. 1495 Charoenkrung Rd., 090-918-3081.

Open daily 11am-1am. BBB

T h e t raf fi c- c l o g g e d , s m o k y co r n e r of Sathorn-Charoenkrung with its rows of Thai-Chinese shop-houses is the last place we’d expect to find an Italian restaurant. La Scarpetta shakes off its surroundings with burgundy awnings, a quaint terrace, faux-Tuscan arches and a string of other homey Italian restaurant cliches. Trays of Roman-style pizzas used to tempt us in while waiting for a bike at Saphan Taksin, but they’ve been replaced by a formidable back bar and wall of wine glasses.

Pizza remains the star of the menu, though don’t expect the most consistent results. While we’ve had margherita pies that are all we could ask of B220—cheese: dripping; tomato: piquant; crust: pillowy but charred, with a base that tells of a well-circulated, super-hot oven—we’ve also had ones that are spongy and flat. Complimentary, bready nibbles are a good indication of what form the kitchen is in on any particular day. Another good reason to visit: the steak. It’s tangy, juicy, well-priced and

Taberna Jamon Jamon HHH Spanish. 9/1 Sukhumvit Soi 20, 02-663-4466.

Open daily 11am-10pm BB-BBB

In the years since Taberna Jamon Jamon opened in 2014, Bangkok’s food scene has had something of a Spanish revolution. While there are no doubt cooler, more refined and quite simply better Spanish restaurants, this friendly, family-run Asoke mainstay is not without its charms. The sound of live flamenco music can be heard out on the street when things get going on weekend evenings. Inside is a whirlwind of mosaic tile floors, corny knick-knacks, a TV looping Spanish music videos and a big selection of wine bottles (plenty under B1,000) that runs right around the dining room. Like the surroundings, the food is far from the sleekest when it comes to presentation, but does deliver on home comforts. You’d be remiss to visit a place called Jamon Jamon and not order some cold cuts—generous sets of Iberian porky goodness start at B550 (served with half-cured sheep cheese and tomato toast), featuring house-made chorizo and ham cut from a leg

cooked well. A 300-gram Argentinian tenderloin, for example, costs B990 and has all the meaty appeal we’d wish for. This is not your grain-fed hotel Aussie wagyu, meaning chewing is a must, but it has flavor, a pink heart, lots of juices and a nicely charred exterior. Enjoy it with a glass of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC (B230/B1,100). We’d love to see the kitchen push a bit harder at other times, though. The bruschetta (B160) are made using the sort of baguette you find in Tops, while the bitter, dry herb topping does no favors for their sharp tomatoes and fresh hit of basil. Meanwhile, a mushroom risotto (B380) has the texture down but not the flavor. Its al-dente grains and well-concentrated stock cry out for more seasoning, as well as a stronger hit of fungus.

Overall, a simple home-style dish that on this occasion we could do better at home. The service, on the other hand, is great. While charming smiles and effusive order-taking can give way to tedious waits between courses, we get the sense that everyone working here genuinely does care. The dining room team is convivial and informative. We’ve been in restaurants costing three times the price that could learn something.

that sits in the center of the room. Order up a half-liter of sangria (B350; or 1.3 liters for B650) and you’re already well on the way to a satisfying meal. Classic tapas are flavorful if lacking in finesse; take the gambas al ajillo (B220), whose six puny prawns in a pool of oil were almost dwarfed by the chunky shards of garlic on our last visit, or the croquetas de jamon (ham croquettes, B165 for four) with their crisp shells but under-seasoned, gloopy bechamel and ham interiors. They’re good enough for a casual night, though you can find better. The anchoas y tomate toast (B175) zings with the flavor of good tomato and anchovies, even if it raises one major concern of ours: for a restaurant so heavily invested in bread (seriously, it comes with almost everything), we do think Jamon Jamon’s crouton-crisp, white stuff gets a bit tiresome after a while. These flavors deserve better. Proof they can do carbs right comes in the form of the patatas bravas (B125) with its moreish crunchy-creamy texture—still, a little more garlic mayo and tomato sauce wouldn’t go astray. Such shortfalls can perhaps be explained by the price point, which is lower than most of the Spanish competition.

End with the awesomely dense flan de huevo (B125)—no complaints there.

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.

DiningReview-BK#758-08MAR2019.indd 19

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

Symbols

Reservations recommended

Parking

Dress requirements Live music

H F E G

3/1/19 8:21 PM

food & drink | open doors

17 Brassica is all about fried chicken and doughnuts The buzz: Proof that the Nanglinchee neighborhood is well and truly on the up comes in the form of this tiny but classy diner doling out juicy fried chicken, doughnuts and other comfort-food staples. Singaporean Cong Wen (former head chef at Prelude) and his partner handle the whole operation, from food prep to washing the dishes.

The vibe: With its tasteful facade blending dark woods and gold signage, Brassica immediately stands out from its old-school shop-house surrounds. Inside gives off a vintage Parisian cafe vibe with its off-white walls, marble-top tables and burgundy furnishings. There are only six tables in total, plus a few seats at the long wooden bar counter which get you up close to all the deep-frying and doughnut-filling of the open kitchen.

The food: Cong marinates his free-range birds in a spicy yogurt mixture before giving them a 10-minute hot oil bath and tossing in a blend of 17 spices. The resulting fried chicken (B260 for a quarter chicken with one side and a sauce; B1,050 for the “Whole Freakin’ Bird Combo” with two sides and two sauces) bursts with flavor. Just as impressive are the

OpenDoor-BK#758-08MAR2019.indd 20

five house-made sauces. Sides include mac ‘n cheese, thick-cut fries and zucchini salad with bacon. We also recommend the Big Chicken sandwich (B260), layered with made-to-order coleslaw and thinly sliced pickles. Sharing top billing are the doughnuts (B75, currently limited to only 30 per day) whose 12-hour-rested dough makes for a dense yet springy texture. A chalkboard announces specials like pan-seared seabass with lemon caper butter and baby potatoes (B280) and roasted pork belly with cream celeriac, beetroot mustard and fennel (B390).

The drinks: Brassica rolls out local beers like Fullmoon and Chalawan for B250/bottle and Stone Head Smiling Evil Pale Ale at B260/bottle. Teetotalers can enjoy Bangkok Soda (B120-130) in flavors like lime and mandarin or passion fruit, while there’s also coffee from B60 in which to dunk your doughnut.

Why we’d come back: This is unpretentious comfort food done well, served up in a fun, low-key space. It’s no surprise the doughnuts are already hot property.

Kankanok Wichiantanon

76/10 Nanglinchee Rd., 093-5962465. Open Wed-Mon 11:30am2:30pm; 6-11pm.

2/28/19 7:49 PM

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2019

21

The Gardennia

NEW AND NOTED

18 Bangkok has its first real Russian restaurant

19 Nanglinchee’s nutritious new all-day breakfast spot

20 Hide away at this French cafe and photography studio

First we get a dedicated vodka bar (RedSquare), and now an authentic Russian restaurant—could this be Bangkok’s latest craze? Owned by

by Russian chef Alesha Voronin, The Moon Under Water (Sukhumvit Soi 48, 065-227-3070) has opened its doors within minutes’ walk of BTS Phra Khanong. Head through the ground floor Thai restaurant, Yayee, up the stairs where you’ll be met with a compact dining room and a concise menu offering authentic homespun classics, from pelmeni (pork and lamb-filled dumplings, B280) and vareniki (potato-filled dumplings, B250), to borscht (a beet and vegetable soup with either veggie or pork stock, B220) and rustic, brandy-cured sausage served with pickles and mashed potato (B390).

Market Place Nanglinchee has welcomed The Gardennia (1/F, Nang Linchi Soi 3), a new healthy eatery that’s here to boost your immune system with its organic, probiotic-rich menu. First turn to the drinks, where you’ll find a full page dedicated to their homemade kombucha (from B125), a fermented Assam tea-based drink that’s said to improve digestion and increase metabolism, energy and immune system health. Food spans breakfast staples—eggs Benedict (B190); smoked salmon scrambled eggs (B220)—as well as rice and pasta dishes (from B159), sandwiches (from B149 for vegan mushroom and tempeh), soups (B150) and an extensive, superfood-rich salad list—try the tuna and quinoa (B220).

Breathing new life into a King Rama VI-era building close to the Golden Mountain temple, Rue de Mansri (417 Bamrungmuang Rd.) is part chic cafe, part photography studio. The charming interior combines vintage sofas, rustic brick walls and lanterns with wild flowers, barred windows and paintings of European landscapes for a cozy hideaway feel. Enjoy a cappuccino (from B50) made using Thai coffee beans (a collaboration with Ari’s popular Bangkok Espresso Bar), or an iced Black Choco Mint (B75), paired with a fresh-baked pastry using dough from Chiang Mai’s Nana Jungle—try the ham and cheese croissant (B45) or chocolate Danish (B50). A rooftop bar area is slated to open in the near future, too.

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TABLE TALK

Aesop’s 20 Sala Daeng Soi 1/1, 062-567-7751. Open Mon-Sat 5pm-midnight; Sun noon-11pm This next-gen rebirth of a family-run Greek restaurant from Sydney, Australia, conjures an ouzo-fueled party atmosphere unlike anything that’s come before it in Bangkok. Menabrea beer is on tap and a slew of Greek wines are on offer, while flavorful dips like taramasalata and tzatziki served with billowing, fresh-baked pita set the foundation for meals that are for sharing. There’s also Sunday brunch parties with a charcoal grill in the open air Santorini-style courtyard that are definitely worth checking out.

Exclusively for Citi credit card members Get 10% discount on food only (excluding special events).

Today – 30 Apr 19

2/28/19 7:49 PM

Bambino

Market Cafe

TABLE TALK

NEW AND NOTED

La Dotta

20 Sample the wagyu craze sweeping the world at this izakaya

21 Shine bright like a 22 This market-inspired diamond at Thonglor’s restaurant shoots new late-night club above “Tourist Thai”

Located right by BTS Phloen Chit, Bambino’s (1045/4 Soi Nai Loet) snug yet bright dining area funnels towards a striking gold bar, with colorful flooring and modern artwork contributing to a playful vibe. The signature Wagyu Sando (B550) is your chance to sample the snack that’s got foodies gagging across the world, in which golden breadcrumbed hunks of Japanese wagyu beef sit between bite-sized slices of fresh baked shokupan (Japanese milk bread), brushed with katsu sauce. Pair it with a refreshing Strawbino cocktail (B340), a mix of strawberry, basil, vodka and curacao. The menu also sees forays into Japanese-Italian fusion—try the Spicy Mentaiko Pasta (B280).

Diamond Thonglor (1/F The Opus, 139 Thonglor Soi 10, 098-171-9846) is a late-night club that promises a glitzy night out. The 200-capacity venue features diamond-themed decor, from glittering silver tiled walls to a glowing diamond shaped DJ booth, plus a whole lot of laser beams. A heavy sound system supports their constant lineup of local and international live artists, spanning pop, hip-hop, trap and EDM. To drink, try the signature Aliyah cocktail (B350), featuring vodka, egg white, strawberry and lychee, or if you’re feeling adventurous try the Jelly Fish Diamond (B250), whose recipe is a secret.

161/6 Thonglor Soi 9, 02-392-8688. Open daily 11am-2:30pm, 5:30-11pm. BTS Thong Lo Tastefully twee in eye-popping aquamarine, Thonglor’s La Dotta looks like a ‘50s Italian diner as seen through the eyes of Wes Anderson. The uncompromising dedication to authenticity is writ large in dishes like the creamy (without cream) pasta carbonara punctuated by the salty tang of Pecorino Romano. Even better is the daily-made pasta that features dishes like the silky and smooth tagliatelle Bolognese with 24-hour-cooked wagyu beef shoulder.

Exclusively for Citi credit card members Get 10% discount on food and non-alcoholic beverages and get a complimentary Crostata al Limone (lemon tart) valued THB 280 when spending THB 1,000 or more / sales slip (limit 1 piece /card /table /sales slip).

Today – 31 Oct 19

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Market Cafe (4/F, Hyatt Regency, 1 Sukhumvit Soi 13, 02-098-1346) one-ups other hotel Thai restaurants through its menu of regional dishes that don’t hold back on fiery flavors.

Skip the buffet for flavorful fare like the yum som-o goong (spicy pomelo salad with prawns, B200), gang pu bai cha plu (crabmeat yellow curry with betel leaf, B380), and gaeng lueang (spicy-sour curry soup with seabass, B320). Embrace your inner tourist to finish with a spot-on mango sticky rice (B180)—we won’t judge. It’s all served up in a tasteful blend of dark wood, shimmering copper and decor touches that give nods to traditional kitchenware.

3/1/19 8:26 PM

food & drink | taste test

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2019

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Who makes Bangkok’s best...carrot cake?

Vegetables in a dessert? Done right, carrot cake is moist, rich and textured with the crunch of nuts and thin shreds of carrot, usually topped off with a sweet yet tangy cream cheese frosting. Done wrong, it can be a disaster. We sampled a handful of the top bakeries in town to find out which ones have the secret recipe. By BK Staff

Holey Bakery

Winner!

For us, this was an easy pick. From the moist and compact cake with its wholesome blend of pecans and carrots and well-rounded flavors, to a good hit of cinnamon and a thin layer of sweet frosting, it certainly did the trick.

Verdict: Carrot top.

Price: B150 245/12 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 02-1011427. Second branch at 39/17 Suanphlu Rd., 02-286-1549. www.fb.com/holeybreadbkk

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Kuppadeli

Runner up!

Nicely crumbly yet slightly bland, this slice was saved by its sugary frosting and heavy dose of pecans, resulting in a satisfyingly mellow concoction.

Verdict: Go nuts.

Price: B185 Multiple branches. Try Asoke Towers, Sukhumvit Soi 21 (Asoke), 02-6642350. www.fb.com/kuppadeli

Dean & Deluca

Yuck!

Last time we checked, carrot cake wasn’t bread smothered in a tangy cream cheese. We were surprised by the lack of flavor in this slice. The moist, rich piece of bread—excuse us, we mean cake—had a nice texture but it proved to be a carrot fake.

Verdict: A masterful disguise.

Price: B145 Multiple branches. Try G/F, Mahanakhon Cube, Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Rd., 02-234-1434. www.deandeluca.co.th

Clinton St.

Though not too sweet, the thick frosting on this carrot cupcake could have been mistaken for a cake in and of itself. A bit dry and crumbly for our liking but the flavors gave each other a nice pat on the back.

Verdict: Carrot crumble.

Price: B120 G/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-129-4861. www.fb.com/clintonstreetbangkok

Chu

This could have easily been found on a shelf in a supermarket. The spongy and slightly oily slice lacked the satisfying crunchiness that should be hidden inside carrot cake.

A sugary treat indeed, the tangy frosting could not make up for the disappointing lack of oomph.

Verdict: Leave it on the shelf.

Price: B120 2/F, Exchange Tower, 388 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-663-4554. Second branch at Trinity Complex, Narathiwas Soi 3, 02-636-8685. www.fb.com/CHU. BKK

3/1/19 8:26 PM

trending | intern season

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2019

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Staging success

I

nternships offer a backstage glimpse into the working world and for many are a direct gateway into a professional career. On the surface, it’s win-win: companies gain useful additions to their workforce while interns gain valuable work experience. In practice, however, internships can be hit or miss—nowhere more so than in the creative industries in Bangkok. “Interns in big agencies are not as well utilized as they should be,” says a source who wishes to remain anonymous but has worked at two of the biggest international creative agencies in Bangkok. “As we’re always so busy, we don’t have time to train the interns so we tend to use them for things like searching for information, doing reviews and surveys. But they are actually capable of a lot more.”

That’s exactly how Lalita (Lita) Kittisrikangwan, 23, who’s had four internships—two in the United States and two in Bangkok—felt when she interned at larger local companies. “I think the lack of policy and training programs for interns really made it disappointing,” says Lita. “Smaller companies not only put more time and effort into teaching me skills, but also allowed me to really work as if I was a full-time employee. The whole point of an internship is to learn. I was just sitting there cold-messaging people on Facebook and Twitter. It was just the worst experience, sitting there copy-pasting and barely gaining any real traction. It was really depressing.”

In contrast, Thitipol Panyalimpanun, 28, didn’t mind the minimal tasks during his internships at a Bangkok magazine and a human rights company in the U.S. “I was young. It was exciting and I was happy to do all this stuff because I’d never done it before. I didn’t feel it was crappy work no one wanted to do; I saw a typo and I was happy about [correcting] it.”

Not all companies have their interns earmarked as the office coffee-grabbers. Victoria Thoo, 29, chief operating officer at Bangkok-based digital marketing agency Primal, explains “They are a great way to bring in young, fresh talent who might not be eligible for the open roles we have, but can still add a positive contribution. It’s a learning playground. Come in, be hungry and soak up as much knowledge and experience as you can. With interns usually lacking office experience, it’s a chance for them to gain an understanding of what’s involved in different roles and understand their own career fit faster.”

While Primal employees always try to create tasks for interns, Thoo says the amount of work also depends on the intern: their skill-set, the department they are placed in and the amount of available resources. “Some responsibility falls on the intern as well to find opportunities to add value, similar to a full-time role,” says Thoo.

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Illustrated by Nuttha Kitsopha

As the next wave of Bangkok summer interns begin making their applications, we ask: is the city’s intern culture working?

By Clara Howell An unpaid privilege?

More often than not, interns in Bangkok are expected to work for free. Although the experience gained is often cited as a fair trade off, this ignores one glaring problem: elitism. Unpaid internships leave the opportunities to students who can afford university or receive financial support from their family.

Lita was lucky—she received a scholarship, giving her the flexibility to experiment with unpaid internships. “I think in the beginning it was fair because I was a first-year college student with no prior experience—I didn’t even have a proper idea of what I wanted to do,” says Lita. “I was just thankful for an amazing opportunity to jumpstart my career, grow and really find my passion.”

Thitipol experienced both paid and unpaid internships.

When the work was unpaid, he relied heavily on his family and a partial scholarship for support. “I was happy just to get an internship at the time,” he says, adding that most of his friends in Bangkok either had unpaid internships or received a small stipend. “I felt like I had nothing to contribute when I started because I was in college and knew nothing. If you ask me now, I’m all for paid internships—they should not work for free.”

At Primal, Thoo says the company decides to pay an intern on a case-by-case basis. “Each business should assess what their hiring needs are when it comes to interns and shape their intern program or approach around performance, expectations and pay,” says Thoo. “If the big picture outcome is learning, performance should not suffer if financial incentives aren’t there.”

The internship culture in Bangkok According to Thoo, creative internships in Bangkok vary wildly.

“Not all companies are looking to develop their interns or give them varied experiences. Internships should be valuable for both parties,” says Thoo. “The company may also be limited by the tasks they have and the ability of the candidate—it falls on the company to then turn down an internship if they can’t fully accommodate.”

An unnamed source noted that some interns tend to get preferential treatment. “We often get requests from big bosses at the client firms asking if they can send their children to intern with us. We always say yes, of course, and these interns will obviously be treated differently. Some even get weekly one-on-one training with the management.”

Lita echoes that the U.S. offered more structured training.

“We had to attend activities and workshops to improve our personal skills. This is something that could be incorporated in Thailand more for equal value.”

So, is it worth it?

Whether paid or not, general consensus still remains in favor of interning. “I felt like I learned more about what I wanted to do in my career during my internship than I did in four years of university,” says Thitipol.

“You’ll either hate it or love it but either way you’ll learn something. Always make the most out of your experience.

Ask questions, no matter how small, and you’ll grow more and more every day,” says Lita. “Plus, these internships could pimp up your resume and give you a stronger leverage when you’re out there job-hunting. When you’re interviewing, these experiences can show your future employers that you were enthusiastic and ambitious enough to try out new things and explore your passions.”

And who knows, if an intern wows a company, they just might hire them. “We have had some standout interns that have gone on to quite senior roles in the company,” says Thoo.

“We actively look for talented employees and interns.” Thoo encourages people to email over a CV and portfolio with a few lines about yourself to careers@primal.co.th or apply directly at www.primal.co.th/careers. She advises those interested in smaller companies or creative agencies to be bold and reach out to the company they want to intern with.

“ Not all companies are looking to develop their interns or give them varied experiences. ”

Thitipol felt that his internship in the United States was more formal and organized. Whereas here internships are part of university curriculum, in the U.S. he explained that internships are often necessary just to open the door to an entry-level job, making them more competitive.

3/1/19 8:28 PM

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2019

25

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.

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

Open daily 10am-10pm.

BTS Chidlom

Every year, our audience of over 300,000 readers turns to Better You to discover • The hottest workout trends • Best new gyms • Healthy-eating shops • Services and coolest workout gear in Bangkok That’s why businesses from spas to hospitals to life insurance providers trust BK Better You to spread the word about their products and services.

NUTRITION · GYM MEMBERSHIP · FITNESS TRENDS · WORKOUT GEAR WEARABLE TECH · ACTIVE DAYS OUT · SPA TREATMENTS

For advertising enquiries, please contact our Sales team.

Tel: (66) 2-624-9696 Ext: 601, 615, 620 Email: advertising@asia-city.co.th

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2/28/19 12:15 PM

wellness | peace keeping

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2019

26

GOOD BUYS

Sleep tight with these Thai organic aromatics

PANPURI’S INDOCHINE SOOTHING ESSENTIAL OIL What: A blend of lemongrass, mandarin and bergamot oils.

Benefits: Relaxes the mind and alleviates anxiety, stress and insomnia.

How much: B750 for 10ml Available at 5/F, Central Chidlom, Phloen Chit Rd., 02-253-5858. Open daily 10am-10pm

Chi, The Spa

Vote Serenity

The Okura Spa

Rarinjinda Spa

Tune out of election fever and treat your mind, body and soul with these blissful spa promotions available right now in Bangkok. By Dhipkawee Sriyananda Selley Ruby Rejuvenation at the Okura Spa Available through Mar 31, The Okura Prestige Bangkok’s Ruby Rejuvenation body scrub and massage package begins with a 30-minute body exfoliating session using apricot seed body scrub and pomegranate extract—said to be good sources of nourishing vitamins and antioxidants.

Next, relieve stress, muscle tension and fatigue with a therapeutic 90-minute Ta-Ke Relief massage, in which steamed bamboo rods are pressed and rolled across your body with camellia flower essential oil—rich in oleic acid, vitamins and Omega 3, 6 and 9. Election? What election?

Price: B4,200 per person 25/F, The Okura Prestige Bangkok, Park Ventures Ecoplex, 57 Wireless Rd., 02-687-9000. Open daily 10am-10pm

Banyan Indulges at Banyan Tree Spa Bangkok If all that talk of politics is making you tense, then get yourself down to Banyan Tree Spa for a double dose of pampering. Their Banyan Indulges package offers a complimentary 30-minute treatment with every purchase of a 90-minute body massage. If your back is in knots, go for the classic, strong pressure Thai massage, or for something less hardcore, check out “Gentle Touch,” a soft to medium massage where soothing, long strokes and thumb pressure are applied in tandem to help you relax and unwind. Finish off with your choice of body or facial treatment, such as the “Apple Green Tea Polisher” body scrub, the “Honey Avocado Healer” body

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conditioner or the ultra-firming “Banyan Brilliance” facial. Available through Mar 31. One day advance booking is highly recommended.

Price: B5,885 per person 21/F, Thai Wah Tower II, South Sathorn Rd., 02-679-1052/4. Open daily 10am-10pm

Sparkle & Pamper at The Antidote Spa Come what may, The Antidote Spa’s 120-minute Sparkle & Pamper package consists of a pampering session for your skin, using their Gold Rush Body Scrub to exfoliate away dead skin cells on your chest, arms and legs. This is followed by another hour of full body aromatherapy massage using gold-infused aroma oil to help melt away all your stress and bring back your natural glow.

We can already imagine feeling lighter than air and invigorated after this, and ready for whatever the day brings. Available through Apr 30.

Price: B2,500 per person 7/F, Pullman Bangkok Grande Sukhumvit, 30 Sukhumvit Soi 21, 02-204-4099. Open daily 10am-10pm

Ayurvedic Hide Away at Rarinjinda Wellness Spa From now through Jun 30, Rarinjinda Wellness Spa is offering a 20-percent discount for all its spa packages, including its signature, luxurious treatments like the 120-minute Ayurvedic Hide Away package, which claims to help remove toxins from your body, as well as bring balance to both your mind and body. The package includes a Shirodhara Treatment where warm oil is slowly

streamed down onto the forehead—on the area of the third eye, or sixth Chakra—followed by a deeply relaxing neck and head massage. If that’s not enough blissful pampering, you’ll also be treated to an Indian warm oil body massage, before finishing off with a little TLC session for your tired feet with the spa’s guava foot polisher.

Price: B4,000 per person

HERBPINESS’ LEMON AND LAVENDER ESSENTIAL OIL What: 100-percent natural extracts of lemon and lavender.

Benefits: Helps relieve tension and headaches.

How much: B390 for 10ml Available at 3/F, Siam Discovery, Rama 1 Rd., 099-131-5408. Open daily 10am-10pm

30/F, Grande Centre Point, 100 Wireless Rd., 02-651-5225. Open daily 10am-midnight

River Escape at Chi, The Spa at Shangri-La Soak up the tranquility of the riverside with Chi’s River Escape package, which includes a 30-minute detox session in the spa’s private steam room to remove impurities from your skin, followed by a 60-minute body massage—you can choose between Thai or oil—to help relax your mind and release tension. After that, get one step closer to a radiant and blemish-free complexion with a 30-minute face pampering session that includes a gentle wash followed by a hydrating and detoxifying face mask. Follow up your pampering session with an afternoon tea set while taking in the views of the Chao Phraya River at The Chocolate Boutique. The promotion is available from now through Mar 31.

Price: B5,450 per person Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok, 89 Soi Wat Suan Plu, New Rd., 02-236-7777. Open Mon-Sat 10am-4pm

SUVARN’S JASMINE QUEEN ESSENTIAL OIL What: A blend of jasmine, ylang-ylang and gardenia.

Benefits: Alleviates anxiety, depression, insomnia and stress.

How much: B650 for 10ml Available at 2/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-538-5548.

Open daily 10am-10pm

3/1/19 8:29 PM

neighborhood | victory monument

BK MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2019

Santhiphap Park

27

Kay’s Boutique Breakfast

Victory Monument

Peak-A-Boo

Victory Lap Bustling with diverse street food and lively bars, Victory Monument maintains its local charm in spite of being one of Bangkok’s busiest intersections.

By Clara Howell

King Power Rangnam

Coffee & Breakfast Relax in the quaint Chibi Chibi (112/4 Sri Ayutthaya Soi 2, Rangnam Rd.,098-743-8905) cafe with a plate of scrambled eggs, sauteed mushrooms and tomatoes (B195) paired with a rosemary latte (B120), or keep it simple with Let’s Say Cafe 24 Hours’ (440/19-20 Ratchawithi Soi 3, 02-245-6134) breakfast set of ham, bacon, eggs and toast (B80). For something sweeter, try the French toast (B299) at Kay’s Boutique Breakfast (116/55-57 Soi Rangnam, 02-2451953), or head to Peace Oriental Teahouse (G/F, King Power, Soi Rangnam, 063-637-0521) for a tea set (B120) and some Matcha Extremist ice cream (B240). Bar by night but cafe by day, Peak-A-Boo (5/F, Victory Mall, 6/2 Ratchawithi Rd., 086-399-5430) will fix you up with a latte shake (B90) or Thai tea granita (B119). When you return in the evening, don’t miss a game of jello shot chess (B450).

Mitr Bar

Lunch & Dinner You can’t eat in Victory Monument without stopping for boat noodles (B12) at Baan Kuay Tiew Ruathong (1/7 Ratchawithi Rd., 089510-1648). Head to Pathe Antique and Restaurant (11 Ratchawithi Rd., 02-644-4321) for the stirfried chicken with cashews (B132) or deep-fried seabass with fish sauce (B275), or hit up Mezzanine (107/10-11, Soi Rangnam, 02-6424719) for a tuna salad (B230) or seafood pizza (B380). If you’re feeling like Indian food, stop by Everest Kitchen (48/8 Ratchaprarop Rd., 02-642-4070) for paneer makhani (B160) mopped up with garlic naan (B50). For meat, go to Eat Am Are (23/1 Soi Rangnam, 082-706-2503), where you’ll find everything from classic ribeye (B350) to barbeque pork loin (B99) and honey-glazed ham steak (B119).

Drinks

at Sky Train Jazz Bar (5/F, 6 Rangnam Rd., 089-895-4299) while sipping on a sangsom, lemon and redbull (B120). Craft beer fans should stop by Mitr Bar (3/F, 23/1 Phaya Thai Rd., 089799-1123) to check out the New England IPA (B220 for 300ml) and the hazelnut chocolate stout (B190 for 300ml). You’ll be spoilt for choice at Heap Victory Monument (449/2 Ratchawithi Soi 12, 02-354-8292), where the Brewdog red ale (B220) battles for attention with ikezo berry sparkling jelly sake (B250). Kick back at vintage-style Baan Bar (4/13 Soi Rangnam, 094-664-2419) with a black Russian (B180) and a shrimp yellow curry (B250). Saxophone (3/8 Phayathai Rd., 02-246-5472) remains one of Bangkok’s best jazz bars.

Transport BTS Victory Monument, of course.

Listen to live music on the roof

Accommodation Just meters from Victory Monument, Ideo Q Victory (13/1 Phayathai Rd., 02-316-2222) features 348 units, with sale prices from B370,000-18.5-million. Maestro 07 Victory Monument (22 Soi Ratchawithi 7, 02-116-1111) offers 171 units from B16,000-50,000/ month. Nearby, Rajvithi City Resort (452 Ratchawithi Rd., 02-245-2244) boasts 167 units from B14,000-22,000/month. M Phayathai (31 Phayathai Rd., 02-245-0011) has 215 units from B25,000-121,000/month.

Visit Shopaholics should check out King Power Rangnam (8 Rangnam Alley, 02- 677-8888), B angkok’s largest duty-free shopping mall, or Center One Shopping Plaza (1 Ratchawithi Rd., 02-2461831). Afterwards, take a break at the green Santhiphap Park (Ratchawithi Rd., 02-245-2461).

BK ASKS

What’s great about Victory Monument?

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TEERACHAI LIMPAITOON, OWNER OF PEACE ORIENTAL TEAHOUSE “It connects all of the important parts of the city and has almost everything you need for urban living.”

WICHIT “CHIT” SAIKLAO, CO-FOUNDER OF MITR BAR “It’s the center of many things: transportation, shopping and residential condominiums.

For my bar, people don’t have to drive as it’s quite close to the BTS.”

RAIWIN “BEAM” LEWSAKUL, CO-OWNER OF PEAK-A-BOO CAFE “There’s so much variety. It’s a major hub of transportation so we see many aspects of life and many types of people. You can also find cheap restaurants and fancy ones.”

2/28/19 5:01 PM

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2/28/19 11:32 AM