It`s going cold! it`s free!

it's free!
It’s going
cold!
BK MAGAZINE NO. 623 FRIDAY, JANUARY 15, 2016. www.bkmagazine.com
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page 3
06
cover story
Foodies to Follow
Now
Boarding
03
upfront
10
avenue
Architect’s
Outrage
Just for Kicks
14
avenue
15
bites
Restaurant
Retail
Flowering
Sathorn
16
bites
21
BK Now
Ciao Phraya!
Hit the Street
Who's in charge?
Managing Director Andrew Hiransomboon
Editor in Chief / Product Director
Grégoire Glachant
Managing Editor Oliver Irvine
Deputy Editor Carl Dixon
Features Associate Monruedee Jansuttipan
Senior Staff Writers Vasachol Quadri, Lily
Kittisrikangwan
Staff Writer Pinnyada Tanitnon
Junior Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat
Junior Writers Natcha Sanguankiattichai, Bonnie
Sananvatananont
Production Supervisor Komkrit Klinkaeo
Art Director Dechart Sangsawang
Senior Graphic Designer Panita Thiraphapong
Graphic Designers Chantich Kongchanmitkul,
Peeraya Sirathanisa
Junior Graphic Designers Wariya Whangwaewklang,
Parida Ritthiron
Where to find us!
The Asia City Media Group
Advertising Director Wanida Akeapichai
Sales Manager Tipkritta Chiraporncharas,
Orajira Sukkasem
Senior Sales Associates Tassanee Mahamad,
Onwara Sittirug, Waranuch Thaneerat, Nattaya
Bovornsettanon, Orakarn Laohakanjanasiri, Amarit
Jinaya
Junior Sales Associates Kittiya Darachai
Regional Marketing Manager Pavida Chitprasertsuk
Marketing Executive Walaipan Anotaiyuenyong
Marketing Service Associate Chochat Masrat
IT Manager Takrit Jitjaroen
Distribution Manager Suda Angsuputiphant
Finance Manager Supaporn Bangmoung
Assistant Finance Manager Anchalee Limkhamduang
Senior Accountant Maneeya Kanthongdang
Accountant Manita Bangmoung
Contributors Rob Brezsny, Kathy MacLeod
Interns Sasicha Jamie Rubesch
Cover Parida Ritthiron
Group Directors
Chief Executive Officer
Gretchen Worth [email protected]
Group Digital Director
Greg Duncan [email protected]
Administrator Yaovaluck Srisermsri
Bangkok
Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd.
9/F, Sathorn Nakorn Tower
100 North Sathorn Rd., Silom,
Bangrak, Bangkok 10500
Tel: 02-624-9696
Fax: 02-237-5656
Email: [email protected]
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Block 211 Henderson Rd.
#07-02 Henderson Industrial Park
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Tel: 65-6323-2512
Fax: 65-6323-2779
Email: [email protected]
Thailand has four airlines among the world’s 38 least safe, according to AirlineRatings.com’s 2016 rankings, released earlier
this month. The website uses “international aviation and government sources” to rate airlines from 1 to 7 (where 7 is great
and 1 not so much). AirAsia Thailand, Bangkok Air and Orient
Thai Airlines were rated a 3. Nok Air was rated a 2.
And then of course there is the ban on Thai carriers by the
USA and the threats to ban our airlines from Europe.
Something has got to change! We can’t keep going on like this!
Here are a few things we can do about aviation safety in
Thailand:
1. Ban double-decker buses on the off-chance that Nakornchai
Air is truly an airline.
2. Round up two Burmese guys, prove that they were in the
vicinity of a Thai airport at some point, and execute them.
Ah, the delicious sense of closure.
3. Simply announce: “These figures are based on old data. It’s
all been fixed now.” And wait for the 2017 rankings.
4. Pray! For every #prayforthailand selfie shot on board a
sub-par airplane, the nation’s good karma gets 10 points.
And for every one million points of good karma, our safety
ratings will go up 1 point. Conditions apply and may be subject to change without notice by participating airlines in the
event of a crash.
5. Blame Chinese tourists. Or Muslims. Or human traffickers. Or
Chinese Muslim human traffickers, which would also explain
the Erawan bombing and torture in the Deep South. Voila!
Case closed.
6. Roll out a last-minute tax break for anyone flying on a local
carrier with a safety rating of 3 or less. #strongertogether
7. Invite children to dress as pilots for a photo opp with Dear
Leader, followed by a tough Q&A with Thai journalists, themselves dressed as children: “Why do you love to fly, Dear
Leader? Do you like airplane food, Dear Leader? If you could
be a bird, which one would you choose to be, Dear Leader?”
See, that wasn’t so hard. We don’t even need to roll out all of
these solutions—just one or two. And if this all sounds familiar,
it’s because most of these fixes can work for anything, from
slave labor to bad green curry in Thai restaurants abroad. So if
you’re having trouble at home or at work, just think of your life
as a Thai plane, a tube of aluminum hurtling through the air,
held up by a hashtag, a smile, some goodwill and healthy dose
of xenophobia. Don’t you feel better already?
BK “Asia City Living” Magazine is edited by Andrew Hiransomboon and published 51 times a year, every Friday of each month by Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Copyright ©2015 Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. The titles “BK Magazine,”
“BK ‘Asia City Living’ Magazine” and their associated logos or devices, and the content of BK “Asia City Living” Magazine are the property of Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly
prohibited. Article reprints are available for B50 each. The magazine may not be distributed without the express written consent of Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Contact the Advertising Department for ad rates and specifications. All
advertising must comply with the Publisher’s terms of business, copies of which are available upon request. Printed by Comform Co.,Ltd. 212 Moo 13 Krungthepkreetha Rd., Saphansoong, Bangkok 10250
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BK Magazine January 15, 2016
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upfront
HOT OR NOT
Hot: Netflix
Not: Every other
streaming service
Did you sign up to one of Bangkok’s early have-a-go streaming startups so you
could see American Pie 9 and Teenage Turtle Warriors for just B549 a month? You
might want to rethink now that Netflix is here in full, costing less per month and
with movies you want to watch.
INTERVIEW
Hot: Political calendars Not: White to Win
We’re sorry, but that Thaksin calendar looked terrible. Like the unofficial fan production of a minor celebrity cobbled together from whatever’s knocking about
rights-free on Google. Having it banned is this country’s first smart move in the
name of culture since… well… ever. Now if we could only start showing the same
level of taste over blackface we might be getting somewhere.
Hot: Tourism festivals Not: Airline safety
Last year’s Discover Thainess festival was just adorable. We found out all about
royal barges, magic monkey gods and cutely dressed hill-tribe minorities while
chomping pad Thai and being smiled at. Even Dear Leader came out to remind us
what a happy-go-lucky, lovable bunch we all are. And now it’s back, with three
more full days of Thainess to be discovered at Lumphini park (see BK Now, page
19). It’s enough to make tourists brave our airlines to get here, four of which just
ranked among the most dangerous in the world on AirlineRatings.com.
Hot: Corporate cafes
Not: Artisanal cafes
You’d think from the number of artisanal coffee roasters and gourmet burger stalls
that we’d have plenty of reasons not to need Nespresso and McDonald’s anymore.
And you’d be right. Which is why those very same brands are now pretending to
be like the businesses which stole all their customers. Visit Nestle’s delightfully
rustic-industrial Nespresso Boutique and McDonald’s premium produce-toting
My Burger pop-up at a shopping mall near you (see New and Noted, page 17).
THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID
Starchitect Duangrit Bunnag, 49, landed himself in hot water not once, but twice
late last year: firstly as an outspoken critic of the government’s proposed Chao
Phraya River promenade project; and then for announcing its alleged plans to close
Knowledge Management and Development (OKMD), the public organization which
oversees TCDC. BK caught up with him to get the latest on these developments.
What’s the status of the TCDC?
We don’t know what will transpire.
The government just revoked the
Prime Minister’s Office’s creative
economy act. They’re talking about
stimulating the economy, but there’s
no engine to make that happen. Tourism has its limits. So, why would you
put an end to the creative economy,
an initiative that’s been supported by
many previous governments?
How do you feel about the government’s decision?
I’m pretty sick of them, to be honest.
They don’t really care about how to
drive the economy; they’re just trying to survive the immediate political
situation. Even though they’re a temporary government, they need to be
thinking long-term. The current government wasn’t voted in—they aren’t
the people’s representative, so they
don’t know what the people want.
They are all public servants. They’re
on the payroll, so they don’t really
care what the economy is like.
Have you tried to broach this topic
with them?
They manage everything in a bureaucratic style. They don’t need to listen
to us because there is no system to
force them to listen to us. I don’t want
to form a mob. It’s an outdated form
of protest, and past experience shows
that taking to the streets doesn’t help.
We’re just voicing our opinion; if people agree with us, we can make some
impact.
You’re also opposed to the government’s riverfront promenade
project. Can you update us on this
matter?
It’s all about corruption, stemming from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s [BMA] public
works department and flowing over
to the government. It’s plain to see.
The Chao Phraya River has its unique
character. If you cover it with development, who will appreciate its charms?
They want to rush this project when,
in fact, it requires a lengthy study of at
least 5-10 years by city planners, not
engineers and architects. If the promenade causes great damage to the
river and its nearby communities, who
will be held responsible? [Update: Last
week, BMA’s public works department agreed to sign a B120-million
contract with King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang to act
as advisor on the study of the river
promenade project over a period
of seven months.]
So what does Bangkok really need?
We need someone with leadership.
It’s not about authority, it’s about taking responsibility. If there’s a flood,
they should say “OK, we will handle
this” instead of telling us to go live in
the mountains.
The junta said they will clamp
down on corruption. Have you seen
any positive progress?
When there’s no accountability, how
can we believe progress has been
made?
How we can we begin to solve
these problems?
Thais are stuck on appearances. If
there’s a corruption case, let’s blame
someone and get rid of them. But
the fact is, the corruption doesn’t end
there. For example, the rice scheme.
It might be true that there was corruption under the Yingluck government,
but the problem runs much deeper
than that. It started from our public
servants providing poor rice seeds
that required chemical fertilizers and
pesticides. The farmers needed to
take out loans to buy chemicals then
needed the guaranteed money from
the rice scheme to pay back their
debts. Why don’t we talk about this
hidden corruption? Interview by Monruedee Jansuttipan
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BK Magazine Friday, January 15, 2016
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KRUNGSRI EXCLUSIVE
HELD IMPRESSIVE SPECIAL EVENTS
FOR EXCLUSIVE CUSTOMERS TO
WELCOME NEW YEAR IN STYLE.
Mr. Phonganant Thanattrai
Krungsri Head of Distribution Group
Mr. Noriaki Goto
Krungsri President and Chief Executive Officer
Mr. Dan Harsono
Krungsri Head of Retail and Consumer Banking
To thank our special guests and celebrate the
coming of 2016, Krungsri Exclusive organized
the classy Miraculous Night Party 2015 at Chatra Ballroom, Siam Kempinski Hotel. More than
400 guests experienced the extravagant party in
Great Gatsby-themed costume. A scrumptious
dinner was only an appetizer to the whole night
of fun, with mini concerts from Radklao Amaradit and The Palace as well as special giveaways
for all participants.
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ADVERTORIAL
We also organized Krungsri Exclusive Golf Tournament for our special clients to relax with the
company’s top executives and pick up some tips
on putting and driving from pro-golfer Prom Meesawat, who plays in Asian and European tours.
The result of both activities was lasting memories for Krungsri’s valued cardholders.
Krungsri Exclusive is a special financial service
that offers not only financial and investment products but also seasoned financial management
teams, who are always ready to assist you in a
variety of investment and financial-related services. We also curate exclusive privileges to fulfill every dimension of your lifestyle in a superior way,
in order to achieve the most of this life, for you.
Stay tuned for more superior experiences and
impressive special treatments that will make you
feel even more privileged.
About Krungsri Exclusive
Krungsri Exclusive is a special service provided to customers of deposit, investment and life insurance
products with a net worth of five million baht or higher. Further exclusive privileges are provided to customers of deposit, investment and life insurance products with a net worth of ten million baht or higher
for six months retroactively and to customers of policy payment for insurance with a net worth of five
hundred thousand baht or higher under the same account on the same day. We offer wealth management products and services through a team of experienced wealth management professionals who are
committed to making finance, investment and business life simple for our customers. As members of
Krungsri Exclusive, customers are entitled to a wide range of exclusive privileges that will complement
every aspect of their life and “Make Life Simple.”
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cover story
Food Followers
Meet the Instagram food royalty who are shaping the success of
Bangkok’s restaurants. By Natcha Sanguankiattichai
BK Asks
How important are Instagrammers to Bangkok’s PR people?
Khemwanta Tangon, Marcom
Manager for
Grand Hyatt
Erawan Bangkok
F
aster than any other social media platform, Instagram has become a
major tool for people to find out what’s happening on the Bangkok
dining scene. Forget 1,000-word customer experiences—a photo,
an address and maybe a price tag is all it takes to let people know if a
restaurant’s worth their Friday evening. While Instagram allows for up to
2,200 characters in its caption space (about three times the length of this
paragraph), the most popular Instagram bloggers in town rarely use even a
quarter of that. With free dining perks and even financial support coming the
way of any Instragrammer who can build up the right following, the number
of have-a-go photo food bloggers in Bangkok has surged. But only a few have
gained as many followers as these Instagram foodies, who now carry more
weight in the eyes of this city’s restaurateurs than most traditional media.
Which Instagrammers do you
most want to visit your restaurants?
I really like @madametuang for so
many reasons. She’s a chef so also
reviews the food and whoever follows her is actually into good food.
Are Instagrammers as valuable to
your restaurants as traditional
media?
eatandshout
It depends what we’re trying to promote. There’s less red tape when it
comes to alcohol promotions. If we
want to promote, say, a happy hour,
then traditional media are more
likely to get a warning from the
Ministry of Health, whereas bloggers can just post it straight away.
FOLLOWING
Chonlathip Rayamas, 32
business woman
172k followers
184w
eatandshout was just awarded Thailand’s Food Influencer award from the
1,571
L'Atelier de Joel Robuchon
Influence Asia 2015 awards. Her account specializes in steak and yakiniku but
you’ll also find plenty more foodie offerings in her collection of almost 3,000
photos and videos.
How did @eatandshout get started?
From street food to fine dining, I used to post so many food pictures on
my personal Instagram account that my friends complained about it, so
I created a new account to only post my food pics.
Do you dine for free?
I get invited to dine at a few restaurants every day. But I have to be
selective—I only go to places that suit my lifestyle. That said, I paid the
bill for more 90 percent of the pics on my account.
Do you get paid to post?
A few places do pay for me to post, mostly shopping malls. I've been
offered up to B15,000 for one post.
2,467
6
El Gaucho
14,685
Perhaps Rabbit
Duangmanee
Yantawattana
Marcom Director, W Bangkok
Which Instagrammers do you
most want to visit your restaurants?
It’s not a person but a group with its
own branding called @eataroundtheclock. But there’s a whole
group of around 30 bloggers who I
invite to eat.
Do Instagrammers bring more
people to your restaurants than
traditional media?
They can be more effective, yes.
They post right there and you can
straight away see 200 likes—and
then those people come and check
in. It was really important when we
opened The House three months
ago. You can tell which crowd follows them because you can check
who’s using their hashtags.
BK Magazine Friday, January 15, 2016
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cover story
ppgallery
FOLLOWING
Piyada Punnakitikasem, 33
business woman
194k followers
184w
From eggs Benedict to shaved ice and cheesecake, the plain-speaking
@ppgallery lets her tantalizing and often humorous #foodporn videos
do the talking.
5,829
Rossano
How did @ppgallery get started?
I don’t normally cook at home so dining out is part of my lifestyle. The
food I eat and places I go are what my account is all about. I don’t
feel forced to write information and details or even comment in the
captions.
How often do places invite you to dine?
Invited and paid reviews are not what I do. Even so, I get contacted by
hotels and restaurants for reviews almost every day.
10 Other Bangkok
Instagram Food
Accounts You Should
Know
KINLAG, 192K
FOLLOWERS
A directory-like
food account that
provides essential
details about
restaurants.
CAFETELLER, 18.4K
FOLLOWERS
A relative newcomer
offering a clean and
precise directory of
cafes.
Have you ever made money from your account?
The most I’ve done is being on contract with a credit card to dine at
restaurants they’re partnered with and to post pictures of the dishes I
like with the promotions. Just like what you’d tell your friends.
M Krub
1,611
3,420
Ginza Sushi Ichi
golfphlat
PAIDONNNN, 41.9K
FOLLOWERS
This user gives out
comments and info
about the
restaurants it visits.
FOLLOWING
MSHAPPYDIET,
37.9K FOLLOWERS
Follow her for a
healthy and happy
food lifestyle.
Phlat Nithipipitchai, 34
freelance writer/food and prop stylist/
interior photographer/service designer
25.6k followers
206w
golfphlat is a serious #cafehopper with an aesthetic mind. You’ll find
1 of A Kind
905
781
Gram
not only nice food pics but also decent interior shots on his account.
He’s also one of the first people to know about any cafe openings in
Bangkok.
How did @golfphlat get started?
Food and interior are my passion and coffee is my life—I average
between four and eight cups a day. My Instagram was just a normal
personal account in the early days with lifestyle and personal pics, but I
stopped posting stuff that was too personal when it started to go public.
How do you find new places to post about?
I know about new cafes from like-minded people amid a growing network of cafe-hoppers.
Do you make any money from the account?
Well, I have been contacted to do cafe consulting. But when I’m invited
to cafes, I make it clear that I won’t post pics if I don’t like it, and will pay
for what I eat.
257
Amatissimo Cafe
547
Bar Storia del Caffe
itan
FOLLOWING
Kittidech Vimolratana, 38
businessman
83.2k followers
208w
More than just a blogger, @itan has become a Bangkok food
institution, appearing on television shows and now giving out his own
approval stickers to restaurants.
767
Meatlicious
How did @itan get started?
I used to be a host for a food TV show called Tan Raitiemtarn on Channel 5. The account started as a regular personal account but people
asked me for a comeback on IG and I thought I could help restaurants.
Do you get paid doing this?
No. I do accept invitations but I have my own rules. Contact me if you
want me to taste your food. If I like it, I post the pic. If not, no amount
of money can get it on my IG page.
What inspired you to make your own sticker?
Choosing where to dine can be tough in areas where many restaurants
are located. I want people who pass by and see the sticker to know
that they can enjoy yummy food there. I use my face as a guarantee.
726
8
Gram Gourmet
783
BON_APPETITBKK,
72.2K FOLLOWERS
This user includes
bilingual captions to
picture posts.
PRASSYEATERY, 8K
FOLLOWERS
The long-standing
food blogger just
started her
Instagram recently.
SWEETLISTS, 132K
FOLLOWERS
People with a sweet
tooth may want to
check this all-aboutdesserts account.
PUPPUP_FOOD
GURU, 8.3K
FOLLOWERS
Follow him for a
taste of the
millionare foodie
high-life
MAYAFTERYOU,
169K FOLLOWERS
An active foodie
who posts a bunch
more than just her
popular toast and
kakigori.
BKMAGAZINE,
11.1K FOLLOWERS
New restaurants and
bars as well as food
events. Plus tons
more lifestyle
content.
Khua Kling + Paksod
BK Magazine Friday, January 15, 2016
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escapes
ESCAPE ROUTES
Ketsiree Wongwan
By BK editorial
KHAO YAI
Jungle Juice
Step aside, Amazon Coffee. Here’s a new stop for your next trip to Khao Yai. Yellow
Submarine Coffee Tank (Kood Klao-Phan Seuk Rd. near Escape Khao Yai. 096-9810682. fb.com/yellowsubmarinecoffee) is a project by Secondfloor Architects, who
have designed the property in a way that integrates it with the natural surroundings
to provide visitors a relaxing, peaceful caffeine fix amid the leafy trees near the entrance of Khao Yai National Park. Although just launched earlier this month, the industrial-chic, semi-open-air cafe is already a hit with locals and visitors, thanks to its insta-friendly design and yummy drinks and dessert offerings, which include over 10
types of cold press juices plus a seasonal menu. It’s only open three days a week
though (Fri-Sun, from 9am-11pm), so plan wisely.
HUA HIN
Raw Deal
With its Six Senses pedigree, we’ve always found Evason Hua Hin (9 Moo 5, Paknampran Beach, Pranburi, 032-618-200) a fairly healthy place with its focus on sustainability and on-site tennis, archery, spa and bicycles for rides to nearby Sam Yoi Rod. Recently added to the list of activities are “raw food” courses. Aside from the cuisine,
which is 100-percent vegan and “cooked” only at low temperatures, what makes
Matthew Kenney Culinary really unique is the standard of instruction and the equipment—professional chefs come from around the world to study for weeks and months
here, but there are also one- and two-day classes where civilians like us can learn
more about “plant-based” diets. Our one-day “intro” course was nearly five hours of
theory and hands-on kitchen time making bright green smoothies, detoxifying salads,
“pasta” and such—tiring, but far more useful than the standard hotel cooking session
where you go home with a certificate, photo and maybe an apron. Rates start at
B5,000 for a standard Evason Room. One-day courses are B8,000. (It’s not necessary
to stay at the resort to enroll in the classes.)
CHIANG MAI
Night at the Museum
Want to stay in the heart of Chiang Mai’s
art scene? You just found the perfect bed
for the night in the new Art Mai Gallery
Hotel (21 Soi 3 Nimmanhaemin Rd.,
053-894-888, www.artmaigalleryhotel.
com), which offers rooms adorned in
work by prominent Thai artists—really; among those whose work is featured are
Bangkok king of cool Jitsing Somboon (head designer at Greyhound fashion label) and
revered impressionist oil painter Charoon Boonsuan. The eight-floor hotel features 79
rooms in total, along with a swimming pool, gym and bar-slash-restaurant, Jarid, specializing in Thai-twist dishes and cocktails. All this is located in the hip Nimmanhemin
area with room rates starting at B2,378/night.
CHINA
Wall Run
Tour operator Albatros Travel is currently gearing up for its annual Great Wall Marathon (www.great-wall-marathon.com). On May 21, participants will run either a full
marathon (42.195km), half marathon (21.1km) or fun run (8.5km) along China’s iconic spine. It’s not going to be an easy run as the wall slopes up and down, and there
are stairs (the horror!) to climb as well. The views are amazing, though, and if you’re
running the full marathon, you will pass by four villages and the lower valley. You can
join the run as part of six- or seven-day tour packages (priced around B46,000-53,000)
starting on either May 17 or May 18 that also give you a thorough introduction to Beijing, with the run being the last thing you do. International flights are not included.
Download our free guide to the best new openings
in Phuket, Chiang Mai, Krabi, Samui and more.
bit.ly/wherehotspots2015
Have some cool rooms? Email your news and promotions to [email protected]
BK Magazine Friday, January 15, 2016
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1/11/16 4:12 PM
avenue
NEW SHOP
Coffee & Kicks
Multi-label streetwear brand Carnival has branched out to a bigger location on Siam
Square Soi 7 with the addition of a coffee corner supplied by Brave Roasters. Unlike
Carnival’s other branches, this white-washed venue focuses exclusively on sneakers
from Nike, Adidas and Vans, with some special limited editions to soon be available
only at this branch. The apparel and accessories shelf also stocks brands like Atmos,
Nike and Californian streetwear brand Publish as well as shoe cleaner kits from Jason
Markk. Coffees include espresso (B70), latte (B60/hot and B70/iced) and the Thaistyle Carnival Latte Shake (B80). Snacks and a takeaway food menu are also coming
soon. Siam Square Soi 7 (next to Hard Rock Cafe), 02-252-4215 and 081-173-4560.
Open daily noon-9pm. BTS Siam. www.carnivalbkk.com
NEW VENUE
NEW SPA
NEW BRAND
Game On
Sand Bathing
Essential Bag
Ah, the ‘90s. We can just about remember when Bangkok’s
malls were bursting with laser tag centers, dance machines and
sticker booths. And now laser tag is back with the indoor Lazgam
Laser Games center on the fourth floor of Holiday Inn Bangkok. There are seven different game modes on offer in a futuristic 500-sq-meter maze-like space filled with lasers, strobe lights,
smoke machines and hidey holes. Gather your troops and line up
your enemies for the likes of “Alien Invasion,” a tag-like game
where one of the players is designated as an alien with the power
to infect others. Prices start at B350 per person per game. 4/F,
Holiday Inn, Sukhumvit Soi 22, 086-996-5631. BTS Asoke. www.
fb.com/lazgamlasergames
The tide of Japanese onsen sweeping Bangkok continues with The
One Sand Bath Therapy, a new spa offering hot sand tubs which
use volcanic Japanese sand selected for its larger than average
grains. The spa claims that the 50 essential vitamins and minerals contained within this sand will improve your immune system,
stave off signs of aging, detoxify your system and improve blood
circulation. Prices start from B2,500 (soft opening rate at B1,500
until further notice) for a one-hour session of sand bathing (15
minutes sand bath followed by a scrub and shower). Aside from
the sand onsen, the spa also offers aromatherapy (from B800/60
mins) and Thai massage (from B500/60 mins). The One Residence, 319 Srinakarin Rd., 02-185-6364 and 085-140-5454. Open
daily 1-9pm. www.fb.com/theonesandbath
British unisex accessories brand Knomo has made its way to
Bangkok with a pop-up kiosk at Central Embassy. The brand
specializes in minimal bags and laptop cases suited to young
first jobbers looking for stylish and functional items at a reachable price. Ladies, go for the smart laptop clutches like the Laptop Leather Zip Sleeve (B5,690)—perfect for your 13” Macbook
Pro. Guys should check out the Troon canvas messenger bag
(B5,690), which is also perfect for your 13” Macbook and other
A4-size important files. Also look out for the Knomad Mini portable organizer (B2,990), a sleeve-style iPad mini or 8” tablet
cover that includes a pen case, wire organizer and card case.
The 10” size is also available at B3,690. Online orders can be
made too via www.fb.com/knomothailand
10
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ADVERTORIAL
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU
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Date : JANUARY 2016
1/11/16 4:06 PM
avenue
SHOPPING
Eat & Shop
Five new spas, fashion stores and furniture boutiques bridging the gap
between restaurants and retail. By Vasachol Quadri
Casa Pagoda & Luka Cafe
Featherstone
Organika
The store: This luxury furniture importer has branched
out from Sukhumvit Soi 45 to the new hip area of Pan
Road. Just like the other Casa Pagoda shops, this location’s decor is meant to look like the edgy Provence villa
of a couple of urban weekenders: a mix of 1900s bistro
paraphernalia, distressed tufted leather couches and vintage-style seats. This branch also focuses more on edgy
decorative items that you won’t find on Soi 45.
The food: The adjoining cafe, Luka, offers solid food created by Chef Sirote Udomthongsuk, who boasts stints at
fancy kitchens like Savelberg, Gaggan and Water Library.
He serves up down-to-earth comfort food made using
ingredients from popular artisanal food producers like
Conkey’s and Sloane’s. The breakfast burrito (B280), fried
chicken sandwich (B310) and grilled cheese with thick
tomato soup (B150) are highly recommended.
64/1 Pan Rd., 02-637-8558. Open Mon-Fri 10am-7pm, Sat-Sun
8:30am-7pm. www.fb.com/lukabangkok
Knock BKK
Casa Pagoda
Knock BKK
The store: What started as an online store devoted to
cult kicks and streetwear has evolved into this Thonglor
store with a charming restaurant below. The shop puts
the focus on Nike Jordan, Nike Air, Adidas and Saucony
with a wide price range from B3,400 for the Air Jordan 1
Mid to B35,000 for Nike Dunk Low Pro SB. Don’t forget
to check out the tees and accessories from street brands
like ICNY and Mostly Heard Rarely Seen.
The food: This menu, created by Chalee Kader of Surface and Beer Bridge, focuses on Western comfort food,
like fried chicken waffle cup cake (B260), Shrimp Po’Boy,
(fried prawns on sourdough, American relish and tartare,
B350), and chicken thighs with old bread, chorizo, rosemary, oil and fennel salad (B390).
3/F, 333/1 Thonglor between soi 15 and 17, 081-375-6625
Open Tue-Fri noon-9pm; Sat-Sun 11am-10pm www.
knockbkk.com
It’s Happened to be a Closet
It's Happened to be a Closet
The store: The name of this gypsy fashion brand has
been on the Bangkok scene since 2004, traveling
around town from Siam Square to Khao San Road and
The Emporium before setting up its permanent location
on Sukhumvit Soi 23. The old house-turned-lifestyle
shop is bigger than every previous outlet, offering a
fashion shop, gift corner, restaurant zone, nail service,
foot massage and different workshops throughout the
week. Highly recommended workshops include jewelry making (B4,500/every Thursday) where you’ll be
taught how to make DIY earrings, pins and bracelets,
and bouquet art (B5,000/every Saturday).
The food: The menu here focuses on Western comfort
dishes like fresh oyster, salads and pasta. Do check their
Facebook page for one-off specials like blue mussels.
Booking ahead is never a bad idea.
Sukhumvit Soi 23, 081-565-2026. Open daily 8am-midnight.
www.fb.com/happenedtobe
Featherstone
The store: This new cafe and lifestyle shop is exactly
where you should go shop for next year’s Wonderfruit
festival. As the name suggests, feathers and stones play
a big part in the store’s lineup (it’s owner has collected
both for years), transformed into accessories like earrings and other jewelry starting as low as B180. The
bohemian touch spreads further onto the house-brand
fringe leather bag and collaborative projects like rattan
totes and beaded jewelry created in collaboration with
Thai craft communities.
The food: Dishes here focus on Western comfort food
like salad, pasta, steak and pizza. We also love the Instagram-worthy deconstructed lavender soda, dubbed
Wild Gardenia (B140), which is presented with floral ice
cubes. Ceresia is the main roaster here.
60 Ekkamai Soi 12, 097- 058- 6846. Open Wed-Mon
10:30am-10pm. www.fb.com/featherstonecafe
Organika
The store: Celebrity Sririta Jensen has expanded her
home spa brand Organika into a full-scale spa with a
white-washed restaurant hidden amid a botanical haven.
The wide range of treatments include the Organika Aromatic Massage (B1,500/60mins), Ajurvedic Compress
Massage (B2,500/90mins) and Organika Facial Treatment (B1,800/60mins). The half-day massage for two
(B11,350/4.5hrs for two person) comprises milk bath
therapy, organic body mask and scrub, full body massage,
facial, hand or foot spa treatment and aromatic high
tea set. You can shop for the products as well; our picks
include the lip scrub (B625/20ml), body wash and lotion
(B1,550/set) and room ambience (B1,750-1,950/100ml).
The food: The cafe features health-focused dishes created by Chalee Kader (see left), including the hearty
chicken garden salad (B400) and backyard garden carrot salad (B320). The tea menu plays around with scents
whose names resemble those of spa products, like Memoirs of Sunrise (B295/pot).
6/F, Piman 49, Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-665-1899. Open daily
10am-9pm. www.fb.com/organikahouse
Coffee Shops-cum-Boutiques We Love
ONE OF A KIND
ONE OUNCE FOR ONION
BLUE DYE CAFE & INDIGO TO INDIAN
This huge warehouse promises 100-percent vintage Nordic furniture. Expect to see rare chairs and lamps like Gote Moble’s brown
leather armchair and Couple Sputnik ceiling lamps. There’s an
on-site steak and spaghetti-specializing cafe, too, in case you
want to relax before taking the items you’ve found home.
Despite the Ari branch’s closure, Ekkamai’s good old One Ounce
for Onion is still serving Brave Roaster’s coffee amid House Sorasak’s vintage finds. Expect to unearth retro and deadstock sunglasses and apparel from emerging cult brands The Hill Side, SSAP
and Shoes Like Pottery.
This old house-turned-cafe offers a unique multi-label store on
the second floor dubbed Indigo to Indian. The shop mainly focuses
on indigo dye work, apparel and silver and stone wear created in
collaboration between the owner and Chiang Mai locals, making
for some pretty unique pieces.
Rama 9 Soi 46, 081-255-0033. Open Thu-Tue 11am-8:30pm. www.
fb.com/1ofakindstyle
19/12 Ekkamai Soi 12, 086-388-3303. Open daily 8am-8pm. www.
fb.com/oneounceforonion
Sukhumvit Soi 36, 083-714-5333, Tue-Sun 10am-9pm. www.fb.com/
indigotoindian
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bites & blends
RESTAURANT
Supa Star
Our favorite Thonglor Thai restaurant is
now the latest addition to the hot Sathorn
Soi 10-12 ‘hood. Three years after first
opening, Supanniga has not only kept
up its solid reputation for delicate Thai
food, but also held strong on its mission
to expand nostalgic Thai flavors to more
palates. The new joint keeps it cozy and
casual with a color scheme that plays
on the vivid yellow of supanniga flowers, along with Isaan-inspired decorative items like silk spindles and fabrics.
Expect the same favorites on the menu
including pu jah (blended crabmeat and
pork, seasoned with pepper and steamed
inside crab shell, B250), panang nuea
lai (beef chunks in red curry, B190)
and moo cha muang (stewed pork with
herbs and cha muang leaves, B190).
28 Sathorn Soi 10. 02-635-0349
EVENT
FOOD MALL
CHEF
Father and Son
Shared Area
Opposites Attract
The saying “like father, like son” certainly rings true in the Lorain
family. Michel Lorain started La Cote Saint-Jacques restaurant in
the eponymous family hotel in 1958, receiving his first Michelin
star in 1971. His son, Jean-Michel, joined the venture in 1983 and
together they earned three Michelin stars for the restaurants in
1986. This Jan 19, chef Jean-Michel Lorain returns to his Bangkok
outpost, J’aime, not only with his father but also his mother, certified sommelier Jacqueline Lorain, for a special eight-course dinner paired with French wines at B12,900/person. Dishes include
duck foie gras and Burgundy ham terrine, parsley gelee and beef
tongue scented with liquorice and pan-seared scallop, razor clams,
black trumpet mushrooms, Brussels sprout royale and shellfish
juice. U Sathorn, 105, 105/1 Soi Ngam Duphli, 02-119-4899
Good food takes center stage at The Commons, Thonglor’s loftlike, open-plan new community mall from the people behind
Roast cafe. Its ground floor spans a marketplace-like indoor
space lined with top foodie names including Maison Jean
Philippe (bread), Roots (coffee), Peppina (pizza), Soulfood 555
(Thai), Meat & Bones (ribs) and The Beer Cap (craft beer). Taking the large stairs to the second floor, you’ll find a florist shop
and Mahajak sound equipment store, as well as more formal restaurants including Jona’s Waffles and After You’s kakigori (shaved ice) spin-off, Maygori. The third floor is home to a
new Absolute Yoga, while up above on the fourth floor you’ll find
the new home of Roast, which has permanently relocated from
SeenSpace. 335 Thonglor Soi 17, 089-152-2677. BTS Thong Lo
Following a string of pop-ups, chef Jess Barnes of the much-missed
Opposite Mess Hall has now joined forces with the guys behind
Lady Brett, UNCLE and Rocket Coffeebar as executive chef of the
second branch of Lady Brett on Thonglor (opens first week of Feb
next door to Mellow). The menu, says Sapparot group partner
Jared O’Brien, will stick to the same barbecue focus as the original Sathorn branch, with Barnes to add his own dishes, roughly
one fifth of the menu, that will be available at both restaurants.
The new Lady Brett is part of Sapparot’s expansion into Thonglor
along with a second addition of UNCLE cocktail lounge, a Rocket
takeaway counter and the management rights for Touche Hombre,
an upcoming Mexican restaurant originally from Melbourne. 149
Sathorn Soi 12, 02-635-0405
BK Magazine Friday, January 15, 2016
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1/8/16 5:52 PM
bites
OPEN DOOR
Ciao Terrazza
Italian staples by the river, served up by one of Bangkok's biggest names.
The buzz: Following the departure of chef Luca Cassini to Shangri-La’s Volti (formerly Angelini), Mandarin Oriental has revamped
Ciao, its stylish Italian riverside restaurant, to offer casual, classic
Italian fare devised by one of the biggest chefs in town.
The decor: The flashy red and black color scheme has been replaced
with a mild industrial look thanks to tables and chairs outlined in iron
frames. The new decor has a more casual vibe than the hotel’s other
dress-up establishments (just remember “no shorts” and you’ll be
fine), with colorful, Mediterranean-style tiles subtly dashed about.
The food: Mandarin Oriental’s legendary chef Norbert Kostner
takes care of the new Italian menu here. Though he comes from
the Northern part of Italy, his food spans much further than that,
covering all the Italian essentials while maintaining a traditional
16
approach to cooking. Staple appetizers like burrata (B430) come
accompanied by pan-wilted cherry tomatoes, needle beans and
herb pesto, while his own take on fish carpaccio results in refreshingly marinated raw salmon and white sea bass with herbs, Taggia
olives, capers and pickled lemon (B390). Of the various house-made
pastas, we especially like the pappardelle with tender Ferrara-style
spare rib stew (B390) and the black ink fettuccine with sauteed cuttlefish, broccoletti, cherry tomatoes and oregano (B400). There’s
also wood-fired pizza at B320-490. Mains include veal shank stew
with gremolata and saffron risotto (B790) and grilled beef sirloin
with arugula and roast plum tomato (B1,100). Don't skip Ciao’s signature tiramisu (B290) for dessert.
with varieties that go way beyond the Piedmontese and Tuscan staples. Prices start at B300 by the glass. The bar also rolls out classic
Italian cocktails as well as tweaked versions at B390-490.
Why you should care: Add great Italian cuisine to a Chao Phraya
terrace, plus the Oriental’s Author’s Lounge in the background, and
you’ve got somewhere quite special at around the same price as
your average Thonglor opening. Natcha Sanguankiattichai
Mandarin Oriental, 48 Oriental Avenue, Charoenkrung Soi 40, 02-6599000. Free ferry from BTS Saphan Taksin. Open daily 6-10:30pm
The drinks: Italian bottles take center stage in the thick wine menu,
BK Magazine Friday, January 15, 2016
BB_NNOD_623_Jan15_16_New.indd 16
1/11/16 7:02 PM
Nespresso Boutique
TABLE TALK
Iron Chef Table
Daily Roast
My Burger
NEW AND NOTED
Capsule Collection
With the arrival of Bangkok's first Nespresso Boutique (3/F,
Siam Paragon, 999/1 Rama 1 Rd. BTS Siam), fans of Nestle’s
luxury espresso machines no longer have to order their compatible coffee capsules from overseas. The shop carries both
coffee machines and a full range of 23 coffee capsules (from
B280/ten-capsule box), though the prices are slightly higher
than those in the nearby Hong Kong store and about double
those purchased in Europe. There’s also a tasting lounge inside
for you to try out the coffee before purchasing.
Daily Dose
On top of the move from the original Thonglor location to The
Commons, Roast has also just opened a small coffee corner at
Bhiraj Tower, adjacent to Emquartier. Daily Roast (M/F, Bhiraj
Tower, Sukhumvit Rd. BTS Phrom Phong) focuses mainly on grab-
and-go meals to suit the working crowds in the 'hood. Highlights
are the open-face sandwiches with toppings like tomato and
ricotta (B150), avocado (B150) and smoked salmon (B180). The
short menu also includes salads (B160), waffles (B120-150) and
quiches (B120). Espresso starts at B70.
Tailor Made
Under pressure from artisanal competitors, global burger empire
McDonald’s is branching out in a not-quite-so-fast food direction.
The new My Burger pop-up store (1/F, E Square, Central World,
Rama 1 Rd.) claims to serve up better-quality burgers, available
with two patty options: Australian angus beef (B119) and kurobuta pork with spicy namtok sauce (B109). Here, you can add
toppings like lettuce, fried egg, shallots and mushroom for B10
each, as well as bacon and cheese at B15 each. Switching the
bun to a black one costs you B10 while adding an extra patty is
B49 for pork or B59 for beef. Natcha Sanguankiattichai
1/F, The Taste, Thonglor Soi 11, 092-768-7723. Open
daily 11am-2pm, 5pm-midnight
The first restaurant officially affiliated with the Iron Chef TV
program sees celebrity chefs offer up a range of cuisines to
the public. Like on the show, dishes are categorized around
eight ingredients: lobster/prawn, wagyu beef, bluefin tuna, foie
gras, black grouper, pork, duck and variety of eggs. The kitchen
is helmed by Iron Chef Art (Asian twist cuisine), Iron Chef Ian
(Western innovative cuisine), Iron Chef Chumpol (Thai cuisine)
and Iron Chef Gai (dessert). The contributions includes Thai chef
Chumpol Jangprai’s long srong (lobster or prawn with Chinese
morning glory and curried peanut sauce, B1,900), and dessert
chef Thanunya “Gai” Kaikaew's funkily-presented sweets like
the orange-shaped Grand Marnier parfait (B390), balanced out
by caviar and wrapped in yuzu jelly.
Exclusive privileges for Citibank credit cardmembers.
Get complimentary 1 dish of From Farm to Table valued
320 Bath when 2-4 persons come dine or
Get complimentary 2 dishes of From Farm to Table
valued 640 Bath when 5 persons or more come dine
Today - 30 May 16
To redeem your favorite dining vouchers, please visit www.citirewards.com.
Simply click “Thailand” and then “Gift voucher”
BK Magazine Friday, January 15, 2016
BB_NNOD_623_Jan15_16_New.indd 17
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1/11/16 7:02 PM
bites & blends market+
Events
Start your day with the latest lifestyle news,
direct to your inbox.
COMING IN 2016
Changwon Express
KOREAN INVASION
Changwon Express pairs five of its
Korean-Mexican dishes with five
beers this Jan 16 from 7pm. B499/
person.
37 Asoke-Dindaeng Rd., 092-251-8661
daily
Be the first to hear about brand new openings,
exciting events and news you actually care about
• Sent Mon-Fri before 9am • Optimized for your phone
• Share straight to social media • 100% free
Mikkeller
8 WIRED TAP EVENT AND RARE
BOTTLES RELEASE
Mikkeller releases seven taps and
eight rare bottles of beer from New
Zealand brewer 8 Wired. Jan 22
26 Ekkamai Soi 10, Yaek 2, 02-381-9891
Whiteline
Advertise
your business
with us ­
BREW REVOLUTION 2
Whiteline hosts the second episode
of its local craft beer gathering this
Jan 23 from 7pm. Expect names like
Sandport, Duck Fly, Silom Beer, Mahanakhon and Triple Pearl.
Silom Soi 8, 087-061-1117. BTS Sala Daeng
starting from
B6,000
2ND BIRTHDAY
Email [email protected]
or
call 026249601
26 Ekkamai Soi 10, Yaek 2, 02-381-9891
Mikkeller celebrates its second birthday with daily tap events and garden
barbecue on Feb 1-5 from 5pm with
200 free bottles of beers on Feb 6
from noon. Free entry
BANGKOK FARMERS’ MARKET
The weekend foodies market where
you can buy products straight from
the source takes place at CDC. Jan
16-17, 1-9pm.
1420/1 Pradit Manutham Rd.
Credit card/Debit card payment accepted
Vertigo
CHEF VIVEK SINGH’S VISIT
Indian chef Vivek Singh from Cinnamon Club, London, visits Vertigo this
Feb 12-14. Price TBA.
Sign up now at
bit.ly/bkdaily
or email [email protected]
21/100 Sathorn Rd., 02-679-1200
130x300mm BK Daily.indd 1
THE MUST-HAVE APP FOR FOODIES!
18
1/11/2559 BE 3:35 PM
Find out more and book online at
www.chope.co
BK Magazine Friday, January 15, 2016
BB_Market+Chope_623_Jan15_16_New.indd 18
1/11/16 4:09 PM
Leandro Godoi
now
FRI Wrap Up
SAT Ready for the Weekend
The team behind the minimal and stylish clothing brand
Vick’s Weekend celebrate their first anniversary this Jan
16. And they’ve invited Yellow Fang, Notep (X0909), Paradise Bangkok and Win from Sqweez Animal to join them
for a party dubbed Dream Field. Taking over The Jam Factory ( 41/1-41/2 Charoen Nakorn Rd., 02-861-0950), the
party also promises plenty of activities and games, with
revelers standing a chance to win huge prizes such as a
three-day trip to the Maldives or a bicycle from Tokyobike.
It doesn’t get more “east meets
west” than Pichet Klunchun’s
latest collaborative performance with Filipino-Canadian
dance artist Alvin Erasga Tolentino, Unwrapping Culture,
which takes the stage at Alliance Francaise de Bangkok
(179 Wireless Rd.02-670-4200)
this Jan 15-16, combining the
ancient Thai dance form khon
with Western contemporary
dance. Tickets are B300-400
available at bit.ly/223OrYw.
SAT Out of the Shadows
Attasit Pakpong’s oil paintings are known for their hauntingly seductive, popart style portrayals of East Asian women. In his latest exhibition, Beyond a
Shadow, the artist brings us even more of his signature characters, this time
placing a greater emphasis on how light can intrude on the sense of mystery
and secrecy. Running from Jan 16-Feb 21 at The Adler Subhashok Gallery
(160/3 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-662-0299. MRT Sukhumvit).
SAT Pure Madness
WED Thai Thai
This Jan 13-17 sees the country’s various regions, cultures and
traditions come together for the
massive annual Thailand Tourism Festival, which takes over
the grounds of Lumphini Park
with plenty of traditional parades
and performances such as muay
Thai boxers, regional dances and
masked Thai opera performances.
It’s also a great place to stroll and
pick up some good food, clothes
and fresh air. If it’s anything like
previous years, expect some
600,000 visitors to make their way
to the park for a cultural day out.
Route 66 (RCA Bangkok, 02203-0936) kick-starts 2016 by
splitting into three zones this
Jan 16 to feature EDM, hip-hop
and live music for its Madness
Party. You’ll be able to catch
popular rock band Silly Fools
(now onto their third lead singer) perform live, plus plenty of
EDM from DJs Fenner and Machine. A member of Eminem’s
Shadycrew, DJ OutKast, will
preside over the hip-hop stage,
alongside rapper Mims of the
hit record “This is Why I’m Hot”.
Tickets are B400 at the door.
NIGHTLIFE
INHALE EXHALE
KONTRABAND FT. RETRAFLEX
DJ Kohra from New Delhi brings his deep, hypnotic and grungy soundscapes to the stage,
with support from DJs Sunju Hargun and Krit
Morton. Jan 15, 10pm. Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-261-3007, 02-261-4446. B350
(includes one drink). MRT Sukhumvit.
For their first party of 2016, Kontraband features
the special guest DJ/producer duo from the UK,
best known for their hit "Apocalypse." Support
from local DJs Azek, DeLorean and Will. Jan 16,
9pm. Dark Bar, 2/F, Ekamai Mall, Ekkamai Soi
10, 02-381-9896, 090-528-4646. B200 (includes
one shot).
STRICTLY VINYL
Inhale Exhale
NILS HOFFMANN
The Berlin producer and DJ takes over the openair garden with his unique sound of synthesizers, organic instruments and influences from
indie rock artists including Yann Tierson, Bon
Iver and Trentemoller. Jan 15, 9pm. Live RCA
Bangkok, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 086-860-0808.
B350.
This edition of the underground house and tech
night welcomes Dennis Frost for a three-hour
analogue vinyl set. Jan 15, 9pm. Dickinson's
Culture Cafe, 64 Pra Arthit Rd., 089-497-8422.
Free.
CONCRETE JUNGLE 2
Bangkok’s Reggae Appreciation Society presents a
night of reggae, dubstep, dancehall and ragga from
DJs Rob Smith, Dragon, Indo, Woken, Penitence and
K9. Jan 16, 9pm. Whiteline, Silom Soi 8, 087-0611117. B250 (includes one drink). BTS Chong Nonsi.
NITE RIDE 1ST ANNIVERSARY
The monthly night dedicated to modern funk,
disco, boogie and electro funk celebrates its first
year with music from DJs Boogie G, Dangdut Banget, Lows and Gramaphone Children plus special
guest DJ Onra. Jan 16, 9pm. Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. B200. BTS Thong Lo.
SAM DIVINE
The London DJ brings her deep and vocal house
tracks to the stage, including hits such as "Confessions" and "Flowers" with support from local
DJs Harrington, Seelie, Nemo Cools and Karl
Andy. Jan 16, 9pm. Live RCA Bangkok, RCA,
Rama 9 Rd., 086-860-0808. B350.
UPROAR #1
The third installment of the bar’s night dedicated to experimental music, this time featuring
noise artists Ryosuke Kiyasu, Chamber of Tapeworms, Tommy Hanson, Gamnad737, Thom
AJ Madson and Kijjaz. Jan 19, 8pm. Jam, 41
Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833. B100. BTS
Surasak.
DARK GROOVE ALLIANCE
Every first Thursday of each month is dedicated
to deep melodic house, progressive and techno music from DJs Mody, Moca, Kani, A_Lien
and Kanabis Stoned. Through Feb 5, 9pm.
Dickinson's Culture Cafe, 64 Pra Arthit Rd.,
089-497-8422. Free.
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ART
LIVE PERFORMANCES
(S)HOW
The bar's latest art event focuses on artists showcasing their work and explaining the artistic process.
This edition presents work from Sharan Atwal, otherwise known as "The Scientist," who uses research
from her molecular biology to inspire her photography, video installations and live performances.
Dates: Jan 15
I Hate Pigeons, 34/2 Sathorn Soi 1 (Sribumphen), 097-2348067.
classical
THAILAND MEETS ITALY
DIMITRI VASSILAKIS
The Greek pianist who has performed at
New York’s Carnegie Hall and the London
Festival Hall presents a solo recital from
which all proceeds go to the Gift of Life
Foundation. Jan 17, 4pm. Sala Sudasiri
Sobha, Lad Phrao Soi 41, 02-541-8662.
B700.
musicals
MOM THE MUSICAL
Director Suwandi Jakraorawut presents a
unique performance featuring robotic dogs,
following a touching tale about man’s best
friend. Through Jan 24, 2pm, 7:30pm. M
Theater, 2884/2 New Petchaburi Rd., 080260-0771/-6. B1,000-2,500.
Director Dultat Vasinachindakaew's latest
musical follows the story of a mixologist
who comes up with a special cocktail that
may be the perfect recipe for overcoming events in his past. Jan 18-15, 2pm,
7:30pm. Thong Lor Art Space, 58/14-15
Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). B480-650.
RMA Institute, Room 238, 238 Sukhumvit Soi 22, 02-6630809.
ANOTHER DEVIL ON THE WALL
CHICAGO STREETS
Thai graffiti artists and cartoonists Trk, Chz, A.M.P
and Warhead present their colorful and radical pop
art pieces.
Dates: Jan 15-Feb 12
Photographer Sirimas Panchana exhibits gritty
scenes from daily life over three and a half years
spent living in Chicago.
Dates: Jan 16-Feb 12
Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833.
23 Bar & Gallery, 92 Soi Nana, Charoenkrung Rd.,
080-264-4471.
theater
UNWRAPPING CULTURE
Performers Alvin Erasga Tolentino and
Pichet Klunchun present an experimental theater piece combining the ancient
Thai dance form Khon with contemporary
dance. Tickets available at bit.ly/223OrYw.
Jan 15-16, 7:30pm. Alliance Francaise de
Bangkok, 179 Wireless Rd., 02-670-4200.
B300-400. MRT Lumphini.
PLAN B
An interactive performance by Democrazy
Theatre Studio that captures the lives of
homeless people in Thailand. Jan 19-23,
26-30, 8pm. Democrazy Theatre Studio,
1034/29-30 Soi Saphankhu, Rama 4 Rd.,
089-126-7112, 081-441-5718. B480. MRT
Lumphini.
THAI
Ong-arj Loeamornpagsin’s fourth solo exhibition
captures Thai culture, beliefs, politics and social
behavior in his signature expressionistic style filled
with social satire and symbolism.
Dates: Jan 9-Feb 9
ROBOTICLISM FROM UNCONSCIOUS MIND
Noshpash Chaturongkagul’s highly detailed works
on canvas capture robots, mechanisms and metal
armour with hints of Thai culture and mythology.
Dates: Jan 15-Feb 2
Jamjuree Gallery, Jamjuree 8, Phaya Thai Rd., 02-218-3709.
Sathorn 11 Art Space, 404 Sathorn Soi 11.
CLASSES & WORKSHOPS
Bike the New Sky Lane
MINIMORE SESSION: TRAVELOGUE
After it was closed for around six months, the cycling track at Suvarnabhumi International
Airport, now dubbed Sky Lane, is back in service. The new refurbishment brings more
rest areas, restrooms and snack stalls, making the 23.5km-long, high-quality track more
biker-friendly than ever. Plus, there’s also a running track available for those who want
to hit the ground on foot instead. Register at the gate with your national ID or passport
to receive your free “Snap” device which grants access to the grounds.
Open daily 6am-6pm. Suvarnabhumi International Airport, 999 Moo 1, Nong Prue, Samut Prakarn.
20
A group photography exhibition by artists Chalaruk
Rueanchomchoei, Peera Vorapreechapanich and
Soopakorn Srisakul who examine how time affects
the ability to recollect memories.
Dates: Jan 14-Feb 28
COCKTAILS THE MUSICAL
The Thai Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Prateep Suphanrojn, play the best of
Italian classical music including Ermanno
Wolf-Ferrari’s Suite-Concertino Op. 16 in F
Major and Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy’s
Symphony No. 4 in A Major, Op. 90 Jan 15,
7pm; Jan 16, 4pm. Prince Mahidol Hall,
Mahidol University (Salaya Campus),
25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd. B300500.
WHY NOT
RECORDER
Salmon Books publishing house holds the first
installment of its workshop series, this time
focusing on the basics of creating travelogues
including where to start, how to record the trip
as it happens, how to keep the readers in mind
and much more. Register at minimore.com/session Jan 16, 10am. Banlue Building, 955 Pracha
Songkhro Rd., 02-641-9955. Free.
CUTTLEBONE CASTING
Learn the ancient jewelry-making techniques
of cuttlebone carving and metal-pouring. Tools
and materials are provided, but metal (sterling
silver) is not. Register at www.atelierrudee.com.
Jan 16, 1pm. Atelier Rudee, 70/3 Sukhumvit.
B2,700.
BASIC WOOD SANDING AND FINISHING
Learn basic wood working techniques and design skills courtesy of the Found-Wood Working
Project, who will walk you through the steps of
cutting, sanding and finishing. Register at bit.
ly/1Rkid8i Jan 15-23, 2pm. Thailand Creative
and Design Center (TCDC), 6/F, The Emporium,
662 Sukhumvit Soi 24, 02-664-8448. B500. BTS
Phrom Phong.
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HIGHLIGHT Buk Ruk Urban Arts Festival
SPOTLIGHT Kult (Street Artist)
My favorite artist is… Egon Schiele. He has a very weird style and great use
of color and lines. It’s hard to find that style in Thai artwork, but many artists
in the Buk Ruk Festival come very close. Lolay, for instance, is very talented.
My favorite art gallery in Bangkok is… the BACC. I like that they feature
contemporary art from international artists. Getting my work showcased
there was truly a mark of success; it felt like the art community was acknowledging my work, even though street art is not always taken seriously.
This Jan 23-31 sees the return of Buk Ruk Urban Arts Festival, a 10-day project of public
wall paintings, art exhibitions, artist talks, animated film screenings and an open-air
music festival. This year's event focuses on the bizarre and uncanny, and will showcase
the work of emerging and established artists from around Asia and Europe.
JAN 23 – MUSIC FESTIVAL
Two stages of live music from an eclectic lineup that so far includes local bands Apartment
Khunpa, Yellow Fang, Paradise Bangkok Molam Band, Gym & Swim, and more. They'll be
joined by international acts such as El Guincho (Spain), Alek Et Les Japonaises (Belgium),
Dye (France, La Fine Equipe (France) and DJ Marine Caillat (France).
Bangkok Docklands, Chao Phraya River, Charoenkrung Rd., BTS Saphan Taksin.
JAN 24-30 – WALL ART
Arguably the highlight of the festival, at which visitors will witness some of the
world's most famous street artists light up the walls of Chinatown with massive pieces. Expect artwork from Aitch (Romania), Aryz (Spain), Fikos (Greece),
Nychos (Austria), Motomichi Nakamura (Japan), Dan Botlek (Netherlands), Escif (Spain), Kult (Thailand, see opposite) and Daehyun Kim (Korea), to name a few.
Various streets of Bangrak district.
JAN 26-FEB 20 - ART EXHIBITIONS
One thing I love about the Thai art scene is… big events like the Buk Ruk
Festival. It’s a great step for art in Thailand. Since it’s a big event that is taking over the whole city, it
helps to open people’s eyes and prove that art is all around. Plus, anyone can walk past and see it,
even if they’re not interested in art. Urban art needs to be urban, not sit in an art gallery.
One thing that bugs me about the Thai art scene is… that Thai artists are still scared to experiment
outside the norm. In this respect, international artists are way ahead of us. They do a lot of things
that stray away from tradition while many Thai artists still stick to watercolor and oil paintings. Not
that there’s anything wrong with those art forms, but I’d love to see more independent thought and
concepts.
When it comes to graffiti in Thailand, I think it is… getting better. Most adults still think it is vandalism, but a lot of teenagers and young adults understand it better and acknowledge it as a serious
art form. We need to show everyone that graffiti is art, too. Make graffiti beautiful, not dirty.
Kult is a Thai illustrator who focuses on unorthodox portrait sketches. His latest exhibition at the Bridge
Art Space runs from Jan 26-Feb 16 as part of the Buk Ruk Art Festival. He will also be taking over Bangrak
streets from Jan 24-29 at 10am-5pm to create wall art as part of the festival.
SPORTS
The works of the above street artists, along with those by Daen Sudkakon (Thailand),
Panop Koonwat (Thailand), The Archivist (Thailand), Florence Lucas (France) and Re:Surgo!
(Germany), will also be showcased at some of the best art galleries and art spaces in
Bangkok for their own individual exhibitions.
THE GREAT RELAY
Making its Bangkok debut, this race challenges
teams of two, four or six to compete in 50km
or 100km distances, where each person runs a
5km loop before handing over to the next person. Register at www.tgrbk.com. Feb 20, 5am.
Suanluang Rama IX Public Park, Sukhumvit
103, 02-328-8982. B800-1,050.
Various art spaces around Bangkok including Bridge Art Space, Soy Sauce Factory, Jam Factory,
and many more.
JAN 29 – WORKSHOPS
For a more hands-on experience, join artist Panop Koonwat for a workshop detailing
all the basic principles of animation creation using Adobe After Effect. Participants will
produce their own short animation video to take home.
RUN FOR HEALTH RUN TO HELP
B1,000. TCDC, 5F, The Emporium, Sukhumvit Soi 24, BTS Phrom Phong.
JAN 30 – ANIMATION NIGHT
Curator Florence Lucas presents a selection of animated films from the United Kingdom,
France, Japan, Thailand, Czechoslavakia, Belgium and Yougoslavia. Expect plenty of shifts
in reality, hallucinatory visions, sexual obsessions, monsters and celestial creatures in
this night-long journey of stop-motion animation.
Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833. BTS Surasak.
JAN 31 – ARTIST TALKS
A night of artist talks from Martha Cooper, Motomichi Nakamura, Re:Surgo!, Florence
Lucas, Panop Koonwat and The Archivist, who will be answering questions and sharing
stories from their own artistic journeys.
B600/ B300 for TCDC members. TCDC, Grand Postal Building, 1160 Charoenkrung Road. 02-6648448.
CARE FOR CANCER 2016 FUN RUN
This fun run organized by Anantara Siam Bangkok
Hotel and the Thai Red Cross Society aims to raise
funds for the Genetic Cancer Research Center at
King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, offering
5km and 10km distances. Registration takes place
on the day. Feb 6, 7:30pm. Lumphini Park, Rama
4 Rd. B350-500.
RUN WITH ME
A healthy activity for you and your partner, offering both couples and solo packages at distances
of 3, 10 and 20km. Register now at bit.ly/1NMCqfP. Feb 14, 4am. Lumphini Park, Rama 4 Rd.
B400-1,500.
HIV RUN
A charity run to raise funds for children suffering
from HIV. Offers distances 4 and 8.5km. Tickets
available now at Thaiticketmajor. Feb 14, 5:30am.
Lumphini Park, Rama 4 Rd. B490.
A mini marathon (10.5km), fun run (3km) and
fun run with pet (3km) to raise funds for various animal shelters around the country helping
abused and abandoned animals. Starting point
is at Rama 8 Bridge. Register at bit.ly/1OQdPad
Feb 21, 5am. B400.
SET BULL RUN
The Stock Exchange of Thailand hosts its first ever
mini marathon, offering distances of 3.2km and
10.3km. Race starts in front of the Stock Exchange
of Thailand building on Rachadapisek Road. Register at www.setbullrun.com Feb 28, 5:45am. B400.
RUN HERO RUN
A superhero-themed charity run to raise funds for
the Peace of Life Foundation, offering distances
of 3, 5, 10.5 and 21km. Starts in front of the King
Rama V Monument on Rachadamnoen Nok Road.
Register at www.peaceoflife.or.th. Feb 28, 6am.
B500-600.
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FILM Opening
SPECIAL SCREENING
THE 5TH WAVE (USA)
SPOTLIGHT (USA)
COP CAR (USA)
Adventure/Sci-fi. Cassie and her younger brother go on the run after waves of
deadly alien attacks decimate the Earth.
Jan 14
Mystery. The editor of the Boston Globe
newspaper tasks his investigative unit to
look into allegations a priest molested
more than 80 young boys. Jan 14
Thriller. Two young boys steal a police car
abandoned in an open field, only to find
that its owner (Kevin Bacon) has left a
dying hostage hidden in the trunk. Jan 14
Upcoming
A Matter of Taste: Serving Up Paul Liebrandt
45 YEARS (USA)
STEVE JOBS (USA)
AWASARN LOK SUAY (THAI)
Drama. During preparations for her 45th
wedding anniversary, Kate Mercer (Charlotte Rampling) receives a letter addressed to her husband informing him
about the discovery of his first girlfriend’s
dead body. Jan 21
Biography. Following the life of Steve
Jobs (Michael Fassbender) as he prepares
for the launch of three revolutionary
products: the Apple Macintosh, the NeXT
computer and the iMac G3 – while also
handling problems in his personal life.
Jan 21
Thriller. The seemingly perfect life of
a young internet idol is turned upside
down when she begins receiving death
threats from online haters. Jan 21
22
Throughout January, TCDC’s ongoing Visual Project, a series of
film and documentary screenings around a certain educational
theme or important issue, explores food as one of the crucial
elements of life. Each of the selected films looks at the various
contexts in which food gets used around the world, covering
topics like street food, food trucks, fine dining and starvation.
Highlight films include A Matter of Taste: Serving Up Paul Liebrandt (2011), Chef (2014) and A Place at the Table (2013). Films
are screened Tue-Sun at 10:30am and 2pm. Free entry. For the
full schedule, visit bit.ly/1kEd641 or call 02-664-8448.
The Creative Space/Living Wallpaper, TCDC Resource Center, 5/F, The Emporium,
Sukhumvit Soi 24. BTS Phrom Phong.
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