1.) All new Honda Accord  (70% likely*)

*just about time for a model change
• Four-cylinder 16-Valve DOHC i-VTEC® engine 2.0L cc 185hp
• Six-speed manual or automatic transmission with sport mode
• Navigation system and push start function
• From approximately B1.26 million

2.) Honda Amaze (Brio sedan)  (100% likely*)

*just a matter of time before it launches
• Four cylinder 16-Valve DOHC i-VTEC® engine 1.2L 89hp
• Five-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission
• From approximately B430,000

3.) Toyota Etios  (40% likely*)

*rumored to hit Thailand soon
• four-cylinder 16-Valve DOHC engine 1.5L 90hp
• Five-speed manual transmission
• From approximately B370,000

4.) Mazda CX-5  (60% likely*)

*rumored as a response to the CRV, Fortuner and Captiva
• SKYACTIV-G DOHC 4-cylinder engine 2.0L 155hp
• Six-speed manual or automatic transmission
• Navigation system and push start function
• From approximately B1 million

5.) Mazda 6  (70% likely*)

*long overdue for Thailand
• 16 valve DOHC 4-cylinder engine 2.5L 170hp
• Six-speed manual or five-speed sport transmission with manual-shift mode
• Navigation system and push start function
• From approximately B1million

6.) Ford Territory  (100% likely*)

*confirmed by Ford
• Six-cylinder 24 valve VG Turbo Intercooler 2.7L 190hp
• Six-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift mode
• Touch screen DVD player
• Available for B2,999,000

29th Thailand International Motor Expo

Nov 29-Dec 10, Impact Arena Challenger Building 1-3, Mon-Fri 12pm-10pm, Sat-Sun 11am-10pm. Tickets B100. www.motorexpo.co.th/2012
Impact Arena, 99 Popular Rd., Muang Thong Thani, 02-833-4455. www.impact.co.th

1.) Travelmart Nature Plus

The Extra Space
Type: Two-door waterproof tent for two
Size: 135m tall, 205x150cm space, 3.5kg
Price: B1,750

2.) Coleman Touring Dome

The Classic
Type: One-door waterproof tent for two
Size: 100cm tall, 210x120cm space, 4.4kg
Price: B5,400

3.) Kelty Grand Mesa 2

The Lightweight Double
Type: One-door waterproof tent for two
Size: 111cm tall, 208x111cm space, 2.1kg
Price: B7,800

4.) Karana Zenith 3

The Budget Pick
Type:  Two-door waterproof tent for three
Size: 150cm tall, 210x210cm space, 6kg
Price: B3,400

5.) Exped Southern Cross

The Hermes of Tents
Type:  Two door waterproof tent for two
Size: 105cm tall, 220x125cm space, 2.5kg
Price: B15,900

Where to Buy Them in Bangkok

*A freestanding tent is one that does not require stakes to stand up and can be moved around after setup.
Coleman. Thailand Outdoor Shop, Sukhumvit Soi 101/1. 02-393-9397. BTS Punnawithi.
Exped & Karana. 2/F, Amarin Plaza, Ploenchit Rd., 081-634-6350. BTS Chidlom.
Kelty. Order online at www.thaihiking.com
Travelmart. Order online at www.e-travelmart.com

Where to Camp this Cool Season

Phu Kradueng National Park, Loei

Entry fee B100. Camping fee B90. Tent B225. 042-871-333, 042-871-458, www.dnp.go.th
After its annual closure due to environmental and safety measures during the rainy season, Phu Kradueng National Park is now welcoming back visitors to experience its virgin forests and red maple leaves. The national park limits visitor numbers to 5,000 people per day so you might want to call ahead. It’s a 3-4 hour hike to camp but it’s well worth the effort.

Khun Sathan National Park, Nan

Entry fee B100. Camping fee B90. Tent B225. 054-701-121, 054-305-585, 087-173-9549.
It’s that time of year when the mountains in the North turn pink as the nang phaya seua krong flowers, aka Thai sakura, bloom in the chilly weather, creating a spectacular landscape. One top spot to see it all is Khun Sathan National Park in Nan’s Na Noi District. Check with the national park office for a precise bloom forecast prior to your visit so that you don’t miss out. There are limited spaces for camping, too.

Pang Oong, Mae Hong Son

Camping fee B100. Tent fee B300.
Part of the SUPPORT Foundation’s Pang Tong Royal Project, Pang Oong is a dream destination for those seeking to enjoy the valley’s morning mist. As it’s not a national park, visitors who wish to stay overnight must register their name with the SUPPORT Foundation in Mae Hong Son (053-611-244, 085-618-3303) in advance. Visitor numbers are limited to 500 so do call ahead.

1.) Gildo

(dried crab imitation sticks in curry flavor, B35)
Gildo is really pungent. The second you open the bag you’re torn between aromas of Mama noodles and dried squid. We admire the concept, though. If you’re going to make a fake flavor, why pick “fake” crab sticks instead of just crab? Half-snack, half-conceptual art, Gildo divided our testers—as bold concepts often do.
Try Tops Supermarket, Silom Complex, Silom Rd., 02-231-3333. www.tops.co.th for more branches.

2.) Entrée

(chicken with teriyaki flavor, B20)
Take Japanese skewers, slice them up, and throw them into a bag. This is culinary genius. Why didn’t we think of it? The chicken is cut into very little pieces so the texture is a bit mushy but the taste isn’t that bad—sweet and completely unrelated to yakitori, which just goes to show how far they’ve taken their original idea.
Try Tops Supermarket

3.) Pumpui <BK PICKS>

(baked baby clams, B10)
If baby clams were baked in sugar and left out in the sun to dry, you’d get this wonderful surprise of a beer snack. And just like in the promotional TV ad, we were very tempted to just pour the little critters down our throats—shot style. Highly recommended.
Try 7-Eleven.

4.) Hed Tod Nanhode

(deep-fried mushroom and vegetables, B20)
This snack has the subtle sophistication of a kaiseki dinner at Aoi: it actually comes with a sweet dipping sauce, meaning the completely plastered may struggle with the added level of complexity. Also, it’s for vegetarians—as is beer. Mercifully, though, it doesn’t taste like vegetables, or mushrooms, or anything really. Hence, the dipping sauce.
Try 7-Eleven.

5.) Pumpui

(baked shrimps, B10)
Pumpui does it again. Only this time they’re using baby shrimps instead of clams. Very crispy, sweet and a bit salty, it reminds us a bit of the namprik gung siab (dried shrimp Southern paste with herbs). We could swear beer was invented for this stuff, but apparently it’s the other way around.
Try Tops Supermarket.

6.) Pretz

(bread sticks in laab flavor, B13)
Ah, laab, that quintessentially Northeastern mix of MSG and chili. Or at least that’s what an alien being introduced to the minced Isaan salad via these pretzel sticks would think. And if that alien decided to destroy our planet after tasting these, we’d have to agree it would not be entirely undeserved punishment.
Try 7-Eleven.

7.) Nut Candy

(peanuts coated with squid flavor, B33)
While the outside is crispy, there’s something squishy and frankly weird inside. Something unknown. Something whose taste we can’t even describe. This is like a ghost movie made into a 4Dx beer snack complete with the smell of nuts, old people and faux squid. Fear this snack.
Try Tops Supermarket.

8.) Mr. Capp

(deep-fried pork skin with no fat in chili sauce flavor, B15)
Even though the logo is a pig roasting in a fire, this kab moo doesn’t feel all that hot. Clearly, this pig is overstating his case. We would argue that the spice levels in this snack are more akin to a warm afternoon in Copenhagen than the fires of a barbeque pit. The texture is very floury and light, too, making us wonder: were any pigs really harmed in the making of Mr. Capp?
Try 7-Eleven.

The Society of Black Sheep is moving out of its Marina Bay Sands boutique end November, but there’s still chance to grab brands like Injury, Handwritten and Thierry Lasry at its pop-up store. November 1-December 31

Modeled after Andy Warhol's Factory from the 1960s, The U Factory is a creative pop-up concept that features a retail marketplace, food and drinks by Maison Ikkoku and The Travelling Cow. November 7-January 31

Enjoy jazz music, artisanal food and scenic views on top of the usual offerings at Bay Market. November 9-10; December 14-15; January 18-19

Shop for a good cause at the NCA Charity Christmas Fair, where home décor items, jewellery, clothing and unique gifts are on offer. November 14

Past season collections from indie stores Actually, Blackmarket, Front Row and Eclecticism are up to 90% off at the second edition of Percentile. November 16

Pick up Christmas stocking fillers at the Pop Store at Pacific Plaza, where you will find an array of vintage goods, leatherware, handmade crafts and other original creations. November 18-December 14

Beautifully handmade Cambodian silk on handbags, scarves and accessories available at The Tabitha Silk Foundation Fair certainly make great Christmas gifts. November 20-22

Sip prosecco, shop selected items from Lulu Bare and Sponge & Spike and try on their new Resort 2014 collections at this one-day-only pop-up. November 21

Le Gluttony at CHIJMES is food, film and music festival offering snacks like muffins from The Muffinry, as well as films from independent Singapore film makers. November 22-23; 29-30

Health fanatics take note: Nothing But Green's flagship outlet will close before Christmas and they are offering a 40% discount on all retail items. November 25-December 20

Purchase a piece of Aussie fashion for yourself this Christmas, as Eclecticism x Made by Lauren Jasmine will be showcasing five labels from Down Under at a three-day event. Coffee, cider, and baked eggs will also be available to stave off hunger pangs. November 28-30

Beloved flea market Public Garden goes big this festive season with a pop-up market of over 120 vendors hawking interesting wares at the 16th floor of TripleOne Somerset. November 23-24; November 30-December 1; December 7-8, 14-15

Have a taste of Denmark at the Danish Christmas Bazaar. November 23-24

Boutiques returns to The Gallery Hotel for its Christmas edition featuring over 60 vendors offering an eclectic array of gifts, fashion, home decor and antiques. November 27-28

Grab handmade crafts from local talents at the mini art flea held during Le Gluttony's Poetry & Art Jam at CHIJMES. November 29-30

Gift the coolest threads this season at the Whole9Yards Pop-up Store. November 29-December 8

Spearheaded by Books Actually and creative collective Hjgher, the inaugural edition of Singapore Art Fair is definitely a must for bookworms. November 30-December 1

Purchase your luxe presents at Raffles Arcade, which will be holding a Festive Promotion for top-of-the-range food, fashion, homeware and other gifts. December 1-25

Sneaker and streetwear enthusiasts converge at the Sole Superior convention featuring merchandize displays, a charity raffle and talks from notable members representing brands and designers. November 30

Find gourmet food, wine, cheese, home decor items, spa products and other festive gifts from over 90 vendors around the world at Raffles Town Club's Christmas Fair. December 5-6

Add a touch of starlight to your Christmas shopping and bargain hunting at the Chapel Market. December 6-14

Epigram Books is holding a two-day festive pop-up fair featuring wide range of publications and over 20 new titles. December 7-8

Luxury online store StyleTribute, specialist of pre-owned designer fashion and accessories, is holding a pop up store. Get your hands on brands like Chanel, Prada and Balenciaga at up to 90% off while sipping cocktails and wines from the bar. December 7

The Vault's Sunday Artists Market promises a charming selection of art, home, lifestyle and fashion wares. December 8

Do your bit for charity this Christmas by shopping at Flea for Good - Christmas Edition. A portion of booth rentals will be donated to Singapore Children's Society. December 8-9

Helmed by the folks at MAAD collective, MAAD Pyjamas features original artworks, quirky finds and performances by homegrown musicians. December 13

Get your festive threads at Inverted Edge's pop-up store at House at Dempsey. All Barracks House customers will receive 20% off for pieces from the new collection. December 13-14

Shop in the name of charity at PARCO next NEXT's Designer Give Back event. Snag pieces from labels like Lion Earl and Fuchsia Lane from prices as low as $10-$50; all proceeds will go towards the victims of Typhoon Haiyan via the Singapore Red Cross. December 13-15

Held after hours, the Clarke Quay Traders' Market: Christmas Market is a tie-up with Red Cross and features gift wrapping services, candies distributed by Santa Claus and more. December 20-21

Tiong Bahru watering hole SocialHaus will be doing its bit for Daughters of Tomorrow, a local charity for low-income women, by hosting pop-up flea markets. November 23, December 7, 21, January 4, 18

Steve Café

68 Soi Sri Ayuthaya 21 (Wat Devarajkoonchon), Sri Ayuthaya Rd., 081-868-0744, 02-281-0915. www.stevecafeandcuisine.com. Open daily 11:30am-11:30pm.
Located in the small community behind Wat Devarajkoonchon next to Thewet Pier, this 60-year old house was damaged by the floods last year but has now been revamped with bright colors and homey wooden furniture. There’s a nice open-air terrace to take in the breeze and the kitchen is manned by one of the owner’s moms who has been working in Bangkok kitchens for the past 20 years. A true Southerner, she likes nothing better than to whip up powerful, pungent classics like gaeng luang sai bua gung (Southern sour soup with lotus stems and prawns) and gaeng tai pla (Southern style fish curry).  Beer: B70, Cocktails: B70

Babble + Rum

1-2/F, Riva Surya, 23 Phra Arthit Rd., 02-633-5000. Open daily 6:30am-1am. www.rivasurya.com
Babble & Rum is not only the name of the main restaurant located on the first floor of Riva Surya, the new boutique hotel sat beside Phra Arthit Pier, it’s also the moniker for the bar next door which combines an outdoor terrace and a laidback upstairs area, perfect for a breezy riverside night out. The riverside terrace shares the same black and white theme as the main restaurant, while the second floor offers a square-shaped open bar painted with Thai poetry and daybeds from which to soak up the river view. Mixologist Surachit “Art” Jarumanee serves up signature cocktails like the candy flavored Jelly Riva (vodka, melon syrup, lime juice on top of jelly) and the Jamaican Fizz (vodka, mango fizz, mango, syrup and lime juice). Happy hours are 5pm-7pm with buy one get one free on cocktails.  Beer: B99, Cocktails: B250, Wine: B160

Chon

The Siam Hotel, 3/2 Khao Rd., 02-206-6999. Open daily noon-10:30pm, reservation only.
Overlooking the Chao Phraya River and Krung Thonburi Bridge, Chon is the signature Thai restaurant of Bangkok’s newest riverside hotel, The Siam. To match the classic views, Executive Chef Blair Mathieson, former head chef at The Chedi in Chiang Mai, promises authentic Thai recipes that utilize the finest ingredients. Set in a beautiful Thai teak house that was brought down from Ayutthaya and painted all in black, Chon also boasts an impressive array of antiques and collectables belonging to the owner.  Beer: B250, Cocktails: B320, Wine: B425

Viva & Aviv

River City Complex, 23 Yota Rd., 02-639-6305. Open daily 11am-midnight. www.vivaaviv.com. Sri Phraya Pier.
Fitting for its riverside location, this new venue has a rustic-yet-relaxed nautically-inspired theme with a dash of industrial chic and pirate-inspired interiors. Soak up the river view and breeze while watching the tourist boats plying up and down the river and enjoy the range of inventive cocktails created by the masterminds behind the established Hyde & Seek. Try the signature Pina Colasi (Appleton rum, pineapple, coconut foam and more) and decent pub grub like the Four Cheesons pizza.  Beer: B100, Cocktails: B250, Wine: B230

Buri Tara

762/2 Rama 3 Rd., 02-682-9457-9. Open daily 5pm-midnight.
This bar is decorated in a classy black and red theme, with a mix of Balinese and Thai styles. The most popular cocktails are the Buri Tara Sunset and Falling in Love (B180 each). And, of course, there’s the charming view surrounded by trees and the nearby river while bands play soft jazz and acoustic music. Beer: B180, Cocktails: B180, Wine: B1,090/Bottle

The Deck

Arun Residence, 36-38 Soi Pratu Nokyung, Maharat Rd., 02-221-9158. Restaurant opens Mon-Thu 7am-10pm, Fri-Sun 7am-11pm. Bar opens Mon-Thu 5pm-midnight, Fri-Sun 5:30pm-1am.
Few restaurants can boast a spectacle as inspiring as the brightly lit Wat Arun directly across the river. There is a modest list of wines, so you’re probably better off bringing your own (no corkage). As for the food, try poh pia gung (B180) and kai satay (B180). To watch the sun set behind the wat while enjoying the open air, call in advance for the best spots. Beer: B130, Cocktails: B175, Wine: B200

Samsara

1612 Songwat Rd., 086-978-9331, 02-639-6853. Open Tue-Thu, Sun 4pm-midnight, Fri-Sat 4pm-1am.
Samsara is one of our favorite spots by the river. Set in one of those charming wooden houses you pass as you ride the express boat along the Chao Phraya, the restaurant is tucked down a little alley behind Wat Pathumkongka (where you can hardly park your car). The place feels halfway between a gallery and a friend’s house, brimming as it is with personality: expect to find colorful vintage furnishings, all sorts of cat-related curios and paintings hanging on the wall. Most of the tables are set out on the terrace and reservations are a must for the ones with the best views. The tasty Thai cuisine is augmented by Japanese touches since some of the owners hail from Japan. Beer: B140, Cocktails: B200, Wine: B900/Bottle

Parata Diamond

396 Ekamai Soi 24, 085-167-6489. Open Mon-Sat 6:30pm-1am. www.paratadiamond.com
With a contemporary Moroccan decor and a menu of New American cuisine featuring dishes like harrissa lamb strudels and five-spice glazed beef short rib, Parata Diamond is certainly trying to be different. The real highlight, though has to be the large open-air garden area where you can relax on a daybed enjoying a shisha or watching some short films. Come for the regular happy hour and bring some friends as many of their cocktails, like the recommended Parata Prae are to share. Happy hours: all you can drink cocktails daily from 9-11pm.

Asia Bar + Kitchen

G/F, Holiday Inn Express, Rama 1 Rd., Pathumwan, 02-216-2288. Open daily 11am-1am. BTS National Stadium.
Serving up a melting pot of Asian cuisines—from Southeast Asia and East Asia to the Indian sub-continent—the highlight of this venue has to be the outdoor space, furnished with the same elegant attention to detail as its natural-meets-industrial interior. Large umbrellas and a bit of greenery provide a cozy garden escape right in the heart of Bangkok. Both the food and drinks are pan-Asian, letting you sample some pad Thai or Hong Kong wonton soup while sipping a bottle of Tsingtao from China or Kingdom from Cambodia. 

Water Library

Grass, Thonglor Soi 12, 02-714-9292/-3. Open Mon-Sat 6:30pm-1am.
The second branch of this eatery, opened in the heart of nightlife central Thonglor earlier this year, has quickly made a mark on the dining scene with its restaurant serving a maximum of ten diners per night an exclusive and expensive multicourse set menu. Now it’s also offering a more relaxed but very tasteful adjoining wine bar, which features a charming outdoor terrace, a menu of creative cocktails courtesy of Italian mixologist Mirko Gardelliano and a cellar containing over 370 labels. Live music on the weekend further refines the laidback mood.

99 Rest Backyard Café

99 Rama 9 Soi 41, Seri 9 Rd., 02-300-4339. Open Tue-Sun 11am-11pm.
Located well off the beaten track, in a small street near Rama 9, this lovely house and garden is managed by the team behind the artsy Tamarind Village in Chiang Mai and Rayavadee Resort in Krabi. The décor is somehow classy-yet-chill, so you don’t feel any pressure to fully dress up, but it still works for dates and special occasions. A beautifully landscaped garden hugs a high-ceiling pavilion, complete with wood furniture, floor-to-ceiling framed windows, strip cushions and royal blue touches. Chef Cyrille Keyser creates international cuisine with highlights including the oven roasted lamb rack served with potato gratin and ratatouille (B1,290). Don’t forget to try the new addition to the dessert menu, chocolate-green tea lava, too.

Issaya Siamese Club

4 Soi Sri Aksorn, Chuaphloeng Rd., 02-672-9040-1. Open daily 11:30am-2:30pm; 6pm-1am.
Set in a stately old house with an interior that’s been done up to be bright and bold, Chef Ian Kittichai’s Issaya Siamese Club serves up a vibrant and exciting take on traditional Thai cooking, notably through artful presentation and the use of high-quality ingredients. The arrival of winter means you can now enjoy a Kaffir Lime (Bacardi rum, kaffir lime, mint and lemongrass) cocktail or a refreshing cup of fruit tea out on the multi-colored beanbags in the leafy front garden before dining on Thai dishes like the yum hua plee, an elegant pillar of crisp heart of palm and bamboo flower salad, or the delicious chili glazed baby back ribs (kradook moo aob). 

Salt

Ari Soi 4, 02-619-6886. Open Mon-Sat 5pm-midnight. Reservations Recommended. BTS Ari.
A dining room made of glass walls and concrete, a wooden house whose yard is packed with logs and plenty of outdoor seating make Salt a solid competitor for the crown of most elegant outdoor drinking and dining spot in the trendy Ari neighbourhood. The food is a mix of French and Japanese classics along with some pasta and particularly decent pizzas, the crowd is sexy and beautiful and there’s also a decent selection of wines and cocktails, like the Salt Swinging (B280) cocktail which comes with sparkling wine, cranberry and mandarin juice.

Signor Sassi

37/F, Anantara Bangkok Sathorn, Narathiwas Rd., Bangkok, 02-210-9011. BTS Chong Nonsi.
Founded in 1984 in swanky Knightsbridge, London, and now also found in Kuwait and Lebanon, this is the restaurant’s third global branch. The food is resolutely Italian, covering the classics from pasta to antipasti, while the decor contains showy touches like the Venetian carnival masks and elegant tableware. Impeccable wait staff and an impressive wine list, plus the spacious 37th floor terrace dining area should make this an extremely popular rooftop spot this winter.

Al Majlis

68/2 Soi Julin, Sukhumvit Soi 21 (Asoke), 02-664-0212/3. MRT Petchburi. Open daily 4:30pm-midnight
We were a little sad to learn that one of our fave urban hideaways, the Moroccan-style house with garden on Ekkamai Soi 12, would be no more, but the owners have found a new home in Asoke. Thankfully, the new venue retains the same charm, starting from the front garden down to the tiki lamps, cushions and carpets. Indoor offers more of a proper dining setting than before, but the best news is that outdoors there are daybeds, beanbags and garden benches from which to enjoy the breeze along with your favorite flavor of sheesha (B350).

Seua Non Kin

231/2 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 02-662-1779. Open Mon-Sat 5pm-midnight.
This two-story house remains a firm favorite and is often fully booked. The décor sees an eclectic mix of comfy vintage sofas, low-rise tables and decorative bric-a-brac. Start with a Virgin Tiger (with light rum, B160) before moving onto the more potent Tiger Down (B180). As for food, opt for the fiery Thai dishes like yam horapha nuea krob (beef salad with sweet basil leaves, B160).

Rooftop Venues

The Speakeasy

24-25/F, Hotel Muse Bangkok, 55/555 Langsuan Rd., 02-630-4000. Open daily 6pm-1am.
Perched atop the Hotel Muse Bangkok, The Speakeasy takes you back to the jazz age of the roaring 1920s. The two-story space sports a prohibition-era inspired décor, featuring lots of dark woods and Art Deco touches. A balcony on the 24th floor lets you take in 180-degree views of Bangkok’s business district, while an al fresco rooftop offers a more leisurely ambiance in a terrace atmosphere. The must-try drinks are long-forgotten classic cocktails that really pack a punch, like the Sazerac 1838, which combines Jack Daniels, absinthe and bitters.  Beer: B170, Cocktails: B320, Wine: B330

Above 11

33/F, Fraser Suites Sukhumvit, 38/8 Sukhumvit Soi 11. 02-207-9300. Open daily 6pm-2am.
One of the new rooftop bars and restaurants to emerge on the Sukhumvit Soi 11 party strip this year, Above Eleven serves Peruvian-Japanese fusion fare, known as Nikkei cuisine, along with a refreshing list of cocktails made from Peruvian Pisco. Make sure you book ahead to get a table right by the edge and take in the sweeping views of Sukhumvit. Happy hours: 50% off on cocktails daily from 6-8pm. Beer: B130, Cocktails: B195, Wine: B199

Park Society

29/F, Sofitel So Bangkok, 2 North Sathorn Rd., 02-624-0000. Open daily 5pm-1am (Bar).
For a real breath of fresh air and a park view to boot then you should head up to Park Society on the 29th floor of the super trendy Sofitel So. Inside is for fine dining with an impressive menu of international cuisine, while out on the rooftop with its soaring columns, it’s all about killer cocktails, lounge tunes and the striking view. For a more intimate night out there’s also a small mezzanine one level up called Hi-So Cabana. B500 entrance fee with one complimentary drink. Beer: B250, Cocktails: B350, Wine: B350

Signor Sassi

37/F, Anantara Bangkok Sathorn, Narathiwas Rd., Bangkok, 02-210-9011. BTS Chong Nonsi.
Founded in 1984 in swanky Knightsbridge, London, and now also found in Kuwait and Lebanon, this is the restaurant’s third global branch. The food is resolutely Italian, covering the classics from pasta to antipasti, while the decor contains showy touches like the Venetian carnival masks and elegant tableware. Impeccable wait staff and an impressive wine list, plus the spacious 37th floor terrace dining area should make this an extremely popular rooftop spot this winter. Beer: B110, Cocktails: B350, Wine: B260

Scarlett

37/F, Pullman Bangkok Hotel G, 188 Silom Rd., 02-238-1991. Open daily 6pm-1am.
This year saw the former Sofitel Hotel on Silom Road transformed into the Pullman Bangkok Hotel G. Part of that transformation included the renovation of the 37th-floor wine bar into a brand new venue, Scarlett, a sister to the popular bar by the same name in Beijing. The biggest change to the space was the addition of a breezy outdoor terrace, which packs serious wow power thanks to its city skyline view. An extensive and pretty affordable wine list, the industrial-bistro decor, DJs at the weekend and a menu of classic dishes and tapas options have made it a very popular spot. Beer: B160, Cocktails: B220, Wine: B150

Restaurants with DRinks-Friendly Gardens

Parata Diamond

396 Ekamai Soi 24, 085-167-6489. Open Mon-Sat 6:30pm-1am.
With a contemporary Moroccan decor and a menu of New American cuisine featuring dishes like harrissa lamb strudels and five-spice glazed beef short rib, Parata Diamond is certainly trying to be different. The real highlight, though has to be the large open-air garden area where you can relax on a daybed enjoying a shisha or watching some short films. Come for the regular happy hour and bring some friends as many of their cocktails, like the recommended Parata Prae are to share. Happy hours: all you can drink cocktails daily from 9-11pm at  Beer: B150, Cocktails: B250, Wine: B99

Asia Bar + Kitchen

G/F, Holiday Inn Express, Rama 1 Rd., Pathumwan, 02-216-2288. Open daily 11am-1am. BTS National Stadium.
Serving up a melting pot of Asian cuisines—from Southeast Asia and East Asia to the Indian sub-continent—the highlight of this venue has to be the outdoor space, furnished with the same elegant attention to detail as its natural-meets-industrial interior. Large umbrellas and a bit of greenery provide a cozy garden escape right in the heart of Bangkok. Both the food and drinks are pan-Asian, letting you sample some pad Thai or Hong Kong wonton soup while sipping a bottle of Tsingtao from China or Kingdom from Cambodia.  Beer: B110, Cocktails: B120

Water Library

Grass, Thonglor Soi 12, 02-714-9292/-3. Open Mon-Sat 6:30pm-1am.
The second branch of this eatery, opened in the heart of nightlife central Thonglor earlier this year, has quickly made a mark on the dining scene with its restaurant serving a maximum of ten diners per night an exclusive and expensive multicourse set menu. Now it’s also offering a more relaxed but very tasteful adjoining wine bar, which features a charming outdoor terrace, a menu of creative cocktails courtesy of Italian mixologist Mirko Gardelliano and a cellar containing over 370 labels. Live music on the weekend further refines the laidback mood. Beer: B150, Cocktails: B260, Wine: B340

99 Rest Backyard Café

99 Rama 9 Soi 41, Seri 9 Rd., 02-300-4339. Open Tue-Sun 11am-11pm.
Located well off the beaten track, in a small street near Rama 9, this lovely house and garden is managed by the team behind the artsy Tamarind Village in Chiang Mai and Rayavadee Resort in Krabi. The décor is somehow classy-yet-chill, so you don’t feel any pressure to fully dress up, but it still works for dates and special occasions. A beautifully landscaped garden hugs a high-ceiling pavilion, complete with wood furniture, floor-to-ceiling framed windows, strip cushions and royal blue touches. Chef Cyrille Keyser creates international cuisine with highlights including the oven roasted lamb rack served with potato gratin and ratatouille (B1,290). Don’t forget to try the new addition to the dessert menu, chocolate-green tea lava, too. Beer: B150, Cocktails: B260, Wine: B210

Issaya Siamese Club

4 Soi Sri Aksorn, Chuaphloeng Rd., 02-672-9040-1. Open daily 11:30am-2:30pm; 6pm-1am.
Set in a stately old house with an interior that’s been done up to be bright and bold, Chef Ian Kittichai’s Issaya Siamese Club serves up a vibrant and exciting take on traditional Thai cooking, notably through artful presentation and the use of high-quality ingredients. The arrival of winter means you can now enjoy a Kaffir Lime (Bacardi rum, kaffir lime, mint and lemongrass) cocktail or a refreshing cup of fruit tea out on the multi-colored beanbags in the leafy front garden before dining on Thai dishes like the yum hua plee, an elegant pillar of crisp heart of palm and bamboo flower salad, or the delicious chili glazed baby back ribs (kradook moo aob).  Beer: B150, Cocktails: B330, Wine: B199

Riverside places

Steve Café

68 Soi Sri Ayuthaya 21 (Wat Devarajkoonchon), Sri Ayuthaya Rd., 081-868-0744, 02-281-0915. www.stevecafeandcuisine.com. Open daily 11:30am-11:30pm.
Located in the small community behind Wat Devarajkoonchon next to Thewet Pier, this 60-year old house was damaged by the floods last year but has now been revamped with bright colors and homey wooden furniture. There’s a nice open-air terrace to take in the breeze and the kitchen is manned by one of the owner’s moms who has been working in Bangkok kitchens for the past 20 years. A true Southerner, she likes nothing better than to whip up powerful, pungent classics like gaeng luang sai bua gung (Southern sour soup with lotus stems and prawns) and gaeng tai pla (Southern style fish curry).  Beer: B70, Cocktails: B70

Babble + Rum

1-2/F, Riva Surya, 23 Phra Arthit Rd., 02-633-5000. Open daily 6:30am-1am. www.rivasurya.com
Babble & Rum is not only the name of the main restaurant located on the first floor of Riva Surya, the new boutique hotel sat beside Phra Arthit Pier, it’s also the moniker for the bar next door which combines an outdoor terrace and a laidback upstairs area, perfect for a breezy riverside night out. The riverside terrace shares the same black and white theme as the main restaurant, while the second floor offers a square-shaped open bar painted with Thai poetry and daybeds from which to soak up the river view. Mixologist Surachit “Art” Jarumanee serves up signature cocktails like the candy flavored Jelly Riva (vodka, melon syrup, lime juice on top of jelly) and the Jamaican Fizz (vodka, mango fizz, mango, syrup and lime juice). Happy hours are 5pm-7pm with buy one get one free on cocktails.  Beer: B99, Cocktails: B250, Wine: B160

Chon

The Siam Hotel, 3/2 Khao Rd., 02-206-6999. Open daily noon-10:30pm, reservation only.
Overlooking the Chao Phraya River and Krung Thonburi Bridge, Chon is the signature Thai restaurant of Bangkok’s newest riverside hotel, The Siam. To match the classic views, Executive Chef Blair Mathieson, former head chef at The Chedi in Chiang Mai, promises authentic Thai recipes that utilize the finest ingredients. Set in a beautiful Thai teak house that was brought down from Ayutthaya and painted all in black, Chon also boasts an impressive array of antiques and collectables belonging to the owner.  Beer: B250, Cocktails: B320, Wine: B425

Viva & Aviv

River City Complex, 23 Yota Rd., 02-639-6305. Open daily 11am-midnight. www.vivaaviv.com. Sri Phraya Pier.
Fitting for its riverside location, this new venue has a rustic-yet-relaxed nautically-inspired theme with a dash of industrial chic and pirate-inspired interiors. Soak up the river view and breeze while watching the tourist boats plying up and down the river and enjoy the range of inventive cocktails created by the masterminds behind the established Hyde & Seek. Try the signature Pina Colasi (Appleton rum, pineapple, coconut foam and more) and decent pub grub like the Four Cheesons pizza.  Beer: B100, Cocktails: B250, Wine: B230

Check out this year's best Christmas dining deals!

Chinese

A wonderful six-course dinner ($128++) will be available on Christmas Eve and Christmas day at Cherry Garden. Enjoy their dim sum brunch buffet on Christmas day too, at $88++ or $138++ with free-flow champagne.

This Christmas, look forward to two special five-course set menus ($108++) at Hai Tien Lo from December 10-25. The menu will feature festive highlights such as a chilled Christmas turkey salad, and braised whole abalone with mushrooms.

Hua Ting Restaurant will be serving a specially created festive set menu, available for lunch and dinner, on Christmas and Christmas Eve. For $98++ to $118++, expect dishes like pan-fried diced kurobuta pork in lettuce cups.

Enjoy exquisite Chinese cuisine at Jade this Christmas, with a six-course dinner ($98++) available on the eve, and Christmas day itself.

Take a break from the usual Christmas fare, and dine at Jia Wei Chinese Restaurant, which is offering two different six-course menus ($98++ to $108++) featuring their Cantonese specialties, and dishes with an oriental festive twist. The promotion will run from December 8-31, and both sets are inclusive of a glass of red or white wine.

For the adventurous, Paradise Pavilion is offering an exclusive French-Chinese fusion Christmas set menu at $98++ all through December. Have a feast that combines the best of Western and Eastern cuisine as you dine in a cosmopoliton setting.

Szechuan Court will provide an Oriental twist to your Christmas meal, with a six-course dinner degustation menu on Christmas Eve.

Yan Ting will have seven-course dinners on Christmas Eve and Christmas day, which are perfectly paired with Billecart-Salmon Brut Reserve.

Jia Wei Chinese Restaurant has come up with two set menus ( for the festive season with highlights such as grilled baby rack of lamb, Eight Treasure Soup and sliced Peking duck with foie gras. 

Check out this year's best Christmas dining deals!

French

Revel in French classics when you partake of Brasserie Les Saveurs' seven-course Christmas Eve degustation dinner ($208++ with a glass of champagne and $268++ with wine pairing), available from 7pm onwards.

JAAN will be offering a festive 3-course ($68++) and 5-course ($118++) set lunch from December 7 onwards. You should also go for their eight-course Christmas Eve degustation dinner priced at $388++ with a glass of Krug.

Make this Christmas a special occasion, by making reservations at top notch restaurant Saint Pierre. Enjoy a festive five-course meal ($88++) from December 3-24, where you'll get luscious dishes like angel hair pasta with fresh winter truffle and caviar. Also, head down for an exquisite six-course Christmas Eve dinner ($188++).

Check out this year's best Christmas dining deals!

German

Head to Paulaner Bräuhaus for a three-course set menu at $45++ from December 3-25, which will feature the perennial favourite, roast turkey breast with cranberry sauce. Alternatively, you can go for their brand new dinner buffet ($50++) on Christmas Eve, available from 6.30-9.30pm.

International

Enjoy a Christmas meal with an Asian culinary twist, buffet-style, at Asian Market Cafe on December 24 and 25. Lunch will be at $52++, while dinner, $65++.

Have a holiday feast at Azur, whose buffet spread will feature their special pan seared Australian scallop with yuzu espuma. Christmas Eve dinner will be at $88++, while Christmas day brunch and dinner at $68++.

Euro-oriental restaurant, Bazin, will offer a Christmas lunch and dinner from now till Christmas day, at $65++ or $99++ with two glasses of Piper Heidsieck.

A five-course festive menu is available at breez bistro.bar from December 21-31, with specialty items like freshly-shucked New Zealand oysters drizzled with citrus granite and raspberry mignonette. The menu will cost $88++ per person, and each diner will receive a glass of champagne.

Indulge in a six-course ($165++) Christmas dinner (6-11pm) at Caffé B on the eve of and the big day itself. The meal starts with an amuse bouche of voule au vent with porcini cream and paprika, and ends on a sweet note with an apple strudel creation.

Edge is offering a festive dinner spread from December 21-25 ($68++ to $88++). Lunch is also available at $58++ (December 21, 22 and 24), while brunch ($148++) will be served on December 23 and 25, with highlights like Iberico and whole Parma ham.

Get high this Christmas at Equinox Restaurant, especially with their festive five-course degustation dinner ($178++), and 7-course ($228++) Christmas Eve, and Christmas day menus.

Tuck into some local delights, as well as a Christmas spread at Feast@East Buffet Restaurant, all through December, with lunch going from $43++ to $54++, and dinner from $46++ to $59++.

Indulge in The Kitchen Table's international buffet spread for your Christmas Eve and Christmas day dinners, priced at $138++ to $188++.

Award-winning buffet restaurant, MELT ~ The World Cafe, will be offering a Christmas Eve lunch ($68++), Christmas day brunch ($288++ inclusive of drinks), and dinner ($148++ to $198++) on both days.

Expect succulent roasts, and signature Christmas dishes like gingerbread-spiced black forest ham, at Orchard Cafe's Christmas Eve and Christmas day buffets. Lunch goes for $60++ to $70++, while dinner, $85++ to $95++.

Head to Rise for festive favorites, on top of their international buffet spread. Christmas Eve lunch will cost $68++, and $108++ on Christmas day. Dinner on either day is priced at $108++.

Celebrity chef restaurant Sky On 57 will serve up a luxurious Christmas Eve set menu ($288++), featuring dishes like Kagoshima Wagyu beef. Brunch will also be available from December 23-25 at $88++.

Due to open on December 1, Tablescapes will be offering a five-course set dinner with buffet dessert on December 22 and 23 at $88++ with wine pairing. Also, look forward to their brunch buffet ($88++ with free-flow drinks) on Decemeber 23 and Christmas day, and Christmas Eve buffet dinner at $128++, which includes prosecco, wine and beer.

Champagne a-floweth all around, when you're at Town Restaurant this yuletide season. Go for their extravagant Christmas Eve ($198++ with free flowing champagne) and Christmas day ($128++ with a bottle) dinner buffet, or their champagne brunch ($288++) on Christmas day from 12:30-4pm.

Check out this year's best Christmas dining deals!

Italian

Reserve a table at Basilico for their Christmas Eve buffet dinner (7-10pm), and Christmas day brunch (three seatings between 11am-3pm), and be treated to an extravagant Italian feast. Both dinner and brunch will cost between $158++ to $228++, depending on choice of free-flow of Mumm champagne or none.

Da Paolo BistroBar will be serving a festive lunch and dinner set menu ($65++) from December 19-26, made up of a glass of Prosecco, mushroom and Osso Bucco pie, a main of fried chicken, and dessert.

Alternatively, you can go to Da Paolo Ristorante for their menu ($68++) of gnocchi with rabbit, followed by cotechino with homemade polenta, and a serving of pannetone with vanilla sauce. The promo goes from December 19-26.

Dolce Vita's Michelin-starred executive chef has created an impressive menu for Christmas day brunch ($238++ inclusive free-flow drinks). There will also be four-course($138++) and five-course ($168++ to $288++) menus for Christmas Eve and Christmas day dinners.

For some fine-dining fare this festive season, head to il Lido for their three-course lunches at $68++, and four-course dinners at $98++.

Celebrate Christmas in true Italian fanfare at LaBrezza, with their five-course Christmas Eve dinner ($165++) on offer from 7pm onwards.

Bask in the beauty of the city skyline as you enjoy a four-course dinner ($128++) at The Lighthouse from Christmas till year-end. There will also be an exclusive five-course dinner on Christmas Eve and Christmas day, costing $198++ inclusive of a glass of champagne and pannetone.

The homely Italian restaurant Prego celebrates the holidays with Christmas-themed menus complete with turkey, chestnuts and of course, classic Italian desserts. A semi-buffet dinner is available on Christmas Eve ($$125++), and brunch on Christmas day ($168++). Festive set lunch ($55++) and dinner ($75++) menus are available selectively from December 21-31.

Let Trattoria Gallo D'Oro treat you to a traditional Italian Christmas feast with an extensive nine-course meal ($68++, or $78++ with prosecco). Expect robust anti-pastos like braised “cotechino” pork leg, and homemade pasta mains. The menu is available for dinner from December 1-24, and lunch all the way till Christmas day.

Japanese

Fat Cow's five-course ($150++ with a glass of wine) Christmas-themed menu will highlight dishes like roasted bone marrow onion soup.

A luxurious seven-course kaiseki menu ($150++) from December 23-25 at the authentically charming Keyaki. Highlights include the season’s best such as blue fin tuna toro sashimi, and snow crab shabu shabu.

Mikuni will be serving a decadent seven-course kaiseki menu on Christmas Eve and Christmas day itself. You can opt for just a glass of sake with the menu at $225++ or sake pairing at $325++. An additional $40++ will get you a free-flow of Kirin beer.

Spanish

If you're hankering for some fresh seafood, head to Ola Cocina Del Mar, where they're offering the perfect Christmas set menu worth $198++. Look forward to creations like the creamy Jerusalem Artichoke Soup with Market Fish and Truffle, and Lobster with Wild and Organic Mushrooms.

Western

Cafe Swiss will be serving buffets of a festive brunch ($78++) menu on Christmas day, and dinner ($85++ including a glass of Moet) on both Christmas Eve and Christmas day.

A delightful six-course dinner awaits you on Christmas Eve and Christmas day at Clifford. Priced at $188++, savor indulgent dishes such as Tsarskaya oyster pomegranate caviar with champagne jelly.

At Lawry's The Prime Rib, expect their laudable signature namesake in their festive dinner menu all through December, priced at $99++, except on Christmas Eve ($149++).

Head down to any one of these places part of a family of pubs, from now till Christmas Eve, for their three ($35) and four-course ($45) meals available all-day: Muddy Murphy's, Othello's Cafe-Bar, and Penny Black. Choose from appetizers like vine tomato soup, and traditional mains like Christmas turkey with stuffing.

Go for One-Ninety festive brunches (two seatings from 11.30am-4pm) on December 23 and 25 ($108++). If you fancy some bubbly, add another $108++ for Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label, or $128++ for Veuve Clicquot Rosé. Five-course dinner menus ($135++) will also be available on Christmas Eve and Christmas day from 6pm onwards.

Picotin Bar & Bistro will have a festive set menu available on request through the Yuletide season. The three-course meal ($50++) will have you enjoying classics like honey glazed ham. Even dessert is in keeping with tradition with things like warm Christmas pudding, and log cake.

Privé Grill will be offering a five-course festive set dinner ($80++) throughout the month of December featuring Josper-grilled king prawns and lamb navarin. And come Christmas Eve, get ready for a decadent six-course spread ($110++ to $128++), including their famous Josper-grilled U.S. “Creekstone” ribeye cap and lobster macaroni and cheese.

Rocks Urban Grill + Bar has a three-course set lunch ($49++), with each course offering three different options, featuring mains like roasted turkey breast, accompanied by onion sauce and truffle mash. The festive menu is available from December 3-24.

In the spirit of the season, SKIRT will be serving a Christmas meal meant for two ($280++). On Christmas Eve and Christmas day, indulge in their signature like their seafood platter, and steak. If not, you can also go for their six-course Christmas Eve dinner at $168++.

For some casual dining, pay SQUE a visit for a 3-course set lunch ($35++), available the entire month of December, from 11:30am-3pm. Have mains like low temperature cooked lamb rump in a mulled wine reduction. Finish your meal off the right way—with some good ole Christmas pudding.

From December 10-23, enjoy a three-course lunch or dinner for just $33++ at Suite 23. They also have a four-course Christmas Eve dinner ($68++), and a three-course Christmas day lunch ($38++). Expect dishes like Australian beef tenderloin topped with foie gras, and a satisfying list of desserts.

You can go down to Taratata Bistrot for lunch or dinner from December 23-25 for a delicious three-course meal ($68++), made up of dishes like a Christmas trio of terrines, and mains like stuffed guinea fowl with chestnuts and spices.

Splurge on a four-course Christmas Eve dinner (2 seatings at 6:30pm and 8:30pm) at $108++, with an additional $58++ for wine pairing at The White Rabbit. Christmas brunch will be a buffet spread ($108++, 2 seatings at 10:30am and 1pm), and get free-flow beers and house red and white if you add another $68++.

Wooloomooloo Steakhouse is offering a four-course set lunch ($68++) and five-course set dinner ($148++), on Christmas Eve and Christmas day. Expect choice cuts like Black Angus rib eye.

JJ Green, the new open-air mall next to Chatuchak, is set to have its grand opening next month. It’s 150 stores on 21 rai are all air-conditioned, and despite being around since May the foot traffic is still pretty low, offering an experience that’s a lot more civilized than the JJ zoo. Here, we round up a few shops you might want to check out.

Inspire Way

With its rugged and raw vibe, Inspire Way is all about the outdoor man. Wooden barrels are used to stock manga-printed t-shirts (from B190); the owner’s self-designed colorful leather boat shoes for men and women evoke yachting weekends (men B2,250, women B1,800); while Australia’s Billie canvas slip-ons and Chiang Mai’s Rubber Killer bags (made from recycled tyres, from B350) bring a touch of eco-warrior style. Products get updated fast, so you can expect rare imports to hit their shelves before they hit the malls. Open daily 10am-8pm. www.facebook.com/pages/Inspire-Way/249268355146040?fref=ts, 081-690-9359.

Pixie Dust

Pixie Dust is all about the stripes, whether it’s on men’s plain-colored t-shirts, polos or women’s tops and dresses. This studio-like shop focuses on simple design in safe tones like white, grey and navy: think casual pieces like long sleeve tops with a playful touch like a printed collar; a light, breathable, striped blazer; or knee-length dresses with hidden details like camouflaged pockets. The stripes, too, are jazzed up: they’re sometimes big and bold or printed with small details you might not even spot at first glance. T-shirts starts from B200, polos from B300 and dresses from B590. Open 11am-8pm Mon-Fri and 10am-7pm on weekends.

Mix & More

Judging from the random items in the window display, from acrylic saxophones to baby dolls, you’ve entered a zakka shop, those Japanese stores where the objects are curated according to the owner’s whimsy. You’ll find stationery, small gifts, printed t-shirts and lots of Japanese collectibles, from cartoon-themed pencils, figurines and toys, to children’s novels and snacks. T-shirts starts from B250 and stationery from B160. Open daily 11am-7pm.

Bellezza by Worarad

Bellezza’s green décor is home to women’s clothing and accessories focused on a sweet, girly palette of pastel tones. Jerseys, printed tops, understated candy-colored dresses share the space with unique necklaces and bracelets. Each piece is tailored and designed by the owner, Worarad, who also designed some of the necklaces herself. Tops starts from B500, accessories from B350 and dresses from B1,390. Open daily 10am-8pm.

Mama

Don’t let the doodles and drawings of animals on Mama’s windows fool you; this is no scrapbook emporium, children’s toy shop or pet store. Instead, Mama does handmade gifts and accessories, from bird-shaped bottle openers to animal block puzzle pieces. The themes are all animal-related, down to their own t-shirt designs with cuddly creatures like bears, dogs, lions and cats. Thankfully, their animal prints and cute cartoon graphics are contemporary enough to steer clear of utter cheesy cuteness. Prices start from B290 for t-shirts and B20 for gifts and accessories. Open Tue-Sun 10:30am-8pm. www.facebook.com/rtna.mama, 083-151-6060.

A special two-course set meal is available at Au Chocolat this Thanksgiving. For $38++, you'll get a hearty bowl of smoked vine tomato soup, and a choice of mains. Don't forget to grab something sweet while you're there.

Don't miss the Thanksgiving dinner buffet at Brewerkz Riverside Point going at $55++. Enjoy free-flow beer at an additional $30++, and wine at $50++.

For an understated evening, head to Dan Ryan's Chicago Grill for a terrific four-course dinner at $55++, filled with all the classics.

From November 22-24, dine at db Bistro Moderne for a traditional three-course Thanksgiving feast of turkey and a selection of pies at $86++.

Enjoy a festive feast at Marriott Cafe, which will have a large selection of fresh seafood, on top of traditional roasts. The buffet dinner is priced at $88++.

Besides a traditional turkey dinner, diners have the option of a vegetarian meal at One-Ninety. The four-course meal is going at $85++.

Get down to Speakeasy for a laid-back dinner with your closest ones. The three-course meal costs $80++.

Town Restaurant is offering a buffet dinner at $68++, with traditional comforts like roast pumpkin soup and nutmeg soup.