Showing 91 - 100 of 158
Go for a taste drive
Guru, Pornchai Sereemongkonpol, Published on 10/07/2015
» Given the long reputation of Mercedes-Benz as a maker of hi-so sedans, we're very curious as to whether their first cafe in Bangkok will also fire on all cylinders (car pun intended).
Cafés and curiosity
Guru, Pornchai Sereemongkonpol, Published on 29/05/2015
» Bangkok is home to a cavalcade of cafes, but there aren't many that stand out in terms of concept. From a hangout for skateboarders to a witch's coven, we've searched every nook and cranny of the capital city for nine cafes that should pique your curiosity.
Thai by the book
Guru, Pornchai Sereemongkonpol, Published on 01/05/2015
» A three-month-old eatery, Kati (Thai for "coconut milk") uses recipes created by experts on Thai food as part of the National Innovation Agency's "Thai Delicious" project.
The glass is half full (of wine)
Guru, Pornchai Sereemongkonpol, Published on 17/04/2015
» Judging from the number of restaurants with the word "wine" in their names, it seems many Bangkokians have accepted Jesus juice into their lives. The Glass Bangkok is a new member to that sector, honouring the vessel rather than the liquid itself. Drinkers at this French bistro can get the same value for their baht whether they're guzzling wine by the glass or bottle. The centrepieces of the establishment are four high-tech dispenser machines, measuring 36 wines in 3cl, 6cl and 12cl pours. This way, you can sample from different bottles — red, white, rose or organic — without putting a dent in your wallet (prices start at B50). The floor-to-ceiling windows allow entry to an ample amount of natural light, while the high ceiling adds a spacious feel to the modern dining area. The crowd here consists of Thais, Japanese housewives and expats.
Golden state on a plate
Guru, Pornchai Sereemongkonpol, Published on 03/04/2015
» Opened in Feb, Abbot is named after Abbot Kinney Boulevard, a trendy and vibrant stretch lined with eateries, shops, art galleries and palm trees in California. The neighbourhood is named after American developer Abbot Kinney, and was dubbed "the coolest block in America" by GQ magazine. As a restaurant, Abbot offers California cuisine, which focuses on healthy creations made from local ingredients — minus the complicated cooking techniques. Add in a penchant for incorporating elements from different cuisines, and you can expect pretty unique fare. Hanging light bulbs with exposed cords and a bare floor convey the casual-yet-cool vibe, while touches of blue may remind you of the coastal state. The high ceiling also lends the place an airy and spacious feel. The mezzanine level (yet to open at the time of our visit) offers a more formal atmosphere and a private room. Most of the diners here are expats.
Techie travellers
Guru, Pornchai Sereemongkonpol, Published on 23/01/2015
» By now you’ve probably memorised all the holidays in 2015 (as you’ve undoubtedly done with the freshly baked 12 core values of Thai people). Who’s to say, maybe you’ve already gone so far as to mark potential long weekends on your calendar. Well, the government, perhaps inspired by your go-getter attitude, also wants to promote tourism throughout this year. Why not help out, then, by injecting some of your hard-earned dough back into the economy? Here as a guide on your financially righteous quest are our picks of smartphone applications that will help you explore Thailand, the smart way.
Fried poultry paradise
Guru, Pornchai Sereemongkonpol, Published on 23/01/2015
» Bangkok is the UN of fried chicken, and a new breed of the crispy bird has recently hatched, joining a flock populated by the likes of KFC, Korean fried chicken, buffalo wings, gai tod Hat Yai and karaage. The latest entry to the hallowed deep-fried fraternity is Sekai No Yamachan, which is famous for its tebasaki, or Nagoya-style fried chicken wings. With a half-man, half-chicken kinda-kawaii mascot statue out front, you can't miss this new izakaya (a Japanese term for a casual after-work drinking and dining establishment). Its dark wooden interior is inviting enough, but don't get too excited — nothing about the decor will knock your socks off. An industrial-style pendant hangs above each table, providing adequate lighting for your most salivatory food porn moments. There are two smaller rooms as well, should you want more privacy. Regular diners comprise about a 50-50 split of Japanese expats and Thais.
Opulent Osha offerings
Guru, Pornchai Sereemongkonpol, Published on 09/01/2015
» Osha has made a name for itself as a luxurious Thai restaurant in San Francisco since opening in 1997. Its first outlet in Bangkok officially opened on Dec 12 after a soft launch period. Not only can you expect modern twists on familiar fare here but also a real show of theatrical ambience. The swank atmosphere of Osha incorporates Thai inspirations all over the place (without making you feel like you're dining in a convocation hall of a Buddhist temple). A picture of Hanuman swallowing a pavilion is projected onto the restaurant's entrance as if you're about to enter a place of momentous importance. Look up from the comfy couch to the ceiling that serves as a canvas for projected pictures of Thai mythical and heavenly beings. Ascend to the upper level via a golden staircase with a giant piece-de-resistance chada (traditional Thai headdress) chandelier hanging in the centre to get close to the golden ceiling. Here you can dine at a semi-circular seat shaped in a monk's bowl with views of a Thai mural depicting Ramakien. A private room is also available on this level if you want to have a very hi-so private party.
Seeing (Michelin) stars
Guru, Pornchai Sereemongkonpol, Published on 12/12/2014
» The dining scene in Bangkok is getting more and more star-studded. Besides visits by famous chefs who create special menus at leading hotels, the capital is home to Michelin-quality restaurants. Nahm by David Thompson is on Sathon Road. Savelberg by Henk Savelberg is on Witthayu Road. Very soon, Joel Robuchon will open his restaurant at MahaNakhon CUBE. And now, recently opened at U Sathorn Bangkok, J’aime is another star in this gastronomic galaxy. It is brought to you by chef Jean-Michel Lorain who has three Michelin stars under his apron. The glitz-and-glam decor comes with “upside down” twists and it’s quite fascinating to see what has been reversed from columns to chandeliers. Luxuriate on lush couches as you study long and fancy food descriptions on the menu or sit outside for beautiful views of the pool at night. The regulars are office execs and lovebirds.
Cuteness Carver
Guru, Pornchai Sereemongkonpol, Published on 14/11/2014
» Yurawan “Hajy” Chompol, 28, turns ordinary pieces of rubber into extraordinary little things. Over the last two years, Hajy has made herself known as a maker of handmade rubber stamps, carving portraits and other adorable designs onto rubber blocks to make unique stamps. She also occasionally holds workshops to teach people how to make rubber stamps. See her work at fb.com/hajyworld and order a one-of-a-kind stamp at http://www.fb.com/madinstudio. We talk to Hajy about her kawaii creations.