The most ridiculous thing about the recent Dîner en Blanc? That they banned beer, along with paper plates and plastic cutlery. Singapore is fast becoming the best place in South East Asia to sample the kind of innovative, ambitious and downright delicious beers that reveal wine snobbery for the nonsense that it is. Already we’re home to two microbreweries, more than half a dozen brewpubs, and a host of specialist importers shipping in several hundred varieties of craft beers and serving them up everywhere from hotel bars to hawker centers.
That Singaporeans love their beer is hardly news. And Beerfest Asia remains one of the very best ways to spend a weekend you’ll never remember. But interest in more artisanal ales has firmly reached our shores, and it’s fitting that the region’s first ever Craft Beer Week (www.singaporecraftbeerweek.com) is about to kick off here. They’re looking to encourage inquisitiveness, experimentation, and an appreciation for quality over quantity (in the bar, if not the bedroom); and we’re right behind them. For the next week, it’s time for anything but a Tiger.
1. The Straits
Once the most inventive of Singapore’s microbreweries, these folks use traditional Asian ingredients to craft their ales and mix up their more mass-appeal beers with some brilliant limited editions. You’ll also find their beers at showcase bars like Malones, The Pit and Boulevard.
2. BeerStyle
Forget about America’s bland lagers and discover its amazing craft brews with goods from Stone Brewing Co., Flying Dog and Southern Tier. Plus, they’ll even deliver all that boozy goodness right to your doorstep.
3. Brewers' Craft
This retail shop in the west carries over 200 different labels (and counting), from places like the Netherlands, Denmark and Japan, with the Belgians and Americans being particularly well-represented. You might also want to check out their weekly Saturday tasting flights ($15-20 for four 150ml samples) from 2.30-6.30pm.
4. Old Empire Gastrobar
A quaint watering hole for those who live in the area, pop by for offerings from the UK, Belgium and more. You’ll spot suds such as Little Creatures from Down Under, Wychwood, St. Bernardus, La Trappe (Holland) and also BrewDog Punk IPA on tap.
5. JiBiru Craft Beer Bar
To set itself apart from the rest of the crowd, this establishment specializes in artisanal Japanese brews. Even if you’re a connoisseur, you’ll be pleased with suds from brewers such as Shiga Kogen, Yoho Brewing and Hitachino Nest. They also regularly showcase seasonal and special edition brews; currently available are Kinshachi Matcha Draft and Mountain Goat Hightail Ale.
6. Thirsty - The Beer Shop
This new kid on the block claims to have the largest collection of premium beers and ciders in Singapore and with close to 350 different brews to choose from. You’ll find familiar favorites including Hitachino, Stone, Wychwood, Rochefort, Mikkeller, Anderson and local heroes Jungle Beer, as well as fresh faces here like NZ Yeastie Boys, UK’s BrewDog and Italian San Biago.
7. Witbier Café
Find a range of specialty beers in the heart of historic Kampong Glam at this laid-back joint. Aside from quality brews, with an extensive range of Belgian beers and a few hard-to-find Aussie offerings, there’s finger food to be had, too.
8. Adstra Gold Microbrewery
A neighborhood brewery along East Coast Road, AdstraGold Microbrewery boasts up to 15 types of boutique craft beers, plus seasonal fruity ales like mango, lychee and strawberry.
9. East of Avalon Wines
Don’t let the name throw you off, because on top of 200 odd vinos, they also carry a decent array of English ales and ciders. Brews from Wychwood, Marston’s, Ringwood, Fuller’s and Duchy Originals are on hand, along with a full range of Weston’s and Brothers ciders. They also run a casual neighborhood bar, The Cider Pit, that’s relocating a few doors down (#01-03, 328 Joo Chiat Rd.) and due to reopen at the end of the month.
10. Paulaner Brauhaus
For authentic German beers, you can’t look past this high-ceilinged, three-story microbrewery with warm country-styled décor. Expect freshly-brewed beers, delectable Munich lager and dark brew, and hearty pork-based mains.
11. RedDot Brewhouse
With two outlets that cover the best of Singapore’s nightlife (the lushness of Dempsey and the riverside bustle of Boat Quay), RedDot offers good, affordable beers that are intriguing from the start (the ever-popular spirulina-infused Monster Green lager comes easily to mind).
12. LeVeL33
One of the latest arrivals on the microbrewery front in our city, this chic restaurant/bar perched on the top of the Marina Bay Financial Centre has a view to die for (always a hit with out-of-towners). They specialize in making European-style suds here such as the light and refreshing 33.1 Blond Lager, the 33.2 Pale Ale, the complex 33.3 Stout and the 33.4 House Porter, a blend of the Pale Ale and Stout, which make for good accompaniments for the food.
13. Oosters Belgian Brasserie
As is expected of a Belgian brasserie; the house special is their mussel pot, accompanied with fries and mayonnaise. If mussels aren’t your thing, there are plenty other menu items, such as another Belgian classic, steak frites. Oosters has a good pub vibe to it and the hearty food is more than enough to line your stomach while you down their delicious Belgian beers.
14. Lil Papa's Wieners
Hot dogs have really enjoyed a revival here, but what this four-month-old addition offers that the others don’t is an extensive selection of craft beers and ciders. Look forward to offerings from countries such as Belgium, Australia, Germany and Sweden with the likes of Hitachino Red Rice Ale ($14) and Delirium Nocturnum ($15), as well as Jungle Beer’s Perfect Porter ($15).
15. Wok & Barrel
This humble, laid-back bistro isn’t fancy, but it’s a rare gem that whips up some mean local classics and modern Singaporean fare at very affordable prices. The best bit? There’s also a mean selection of over 30 craft beers to be had, courtesy of chef-owner Shen Tan. Think Hitachino, Hawthorn and Moa, as well as goods like Delirium Nocturnum and Jungle Beer Mango Rose on tap.
16. Sque Rotisserie & Alehouse
A casual 256-seater along the Singapore River, bistro/bar SQUE (pronounced “skew”) has a list of over 200 international beers from Belgium, Germany, the UK, the US, Australia, New Zealand, India and more such as Moa Methode ($23), Black Abbot ($17), 5a.m. Saint ($14.50) and Double Bastard Ale ($38.50). For the ladies, there are also a few lambics to choose from like Pink Killer ($11.50).
17. The Good Beer Company
Daniel Goh’s tidy, little stall offers over 50 different beers and ciders, from countries like Taiwan and the US. He’s recently set up another spot up in Katong (lucky eastsiders), 99 Bottles.
18. The Pump Room
Beyond its delicious range of craft beers (which picked up a bag of awards at 2011’s Asia Beer Awards) and sumptuous bistro fare, The Pump Room is also known for rocking live music from its resident band Jive Talkin’ which belts out rock and pop hits.
19. Brewerkz
Still unbeatable after 15 years in business, Brewerkz simply has it all, from reliable standards like the golden ale and oatmeal stout, to sensational and experimental seasonals. Throw in great food, some of the best happy hour deals on the island (jugs for under $16 before 3pm), and you have yourself a real winner.
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Experience the Melbourne Cup in Singapore at The Exchange, and enjoy free flow housepours and beer at $88++ (10:30am-3:00pm), a special champagne offer at $88++ (1:30-9pm), and set lunches at $35++ (two-course) or $42++ (three-course).
Boomarang Bistro & Bar will also be screening the Melbourne Cup on November 6, with a Chandon Brunch Package at $50 (9:30am-noon), which includes free flow Chandon, canapés, and brunch.
Deck yourself in fancy dress and attend the charity Melbourne Cup Day Luncheon at Hotel Fort Canning. Partake in a three-course meal with free flow wine and beer at $180 (10am-3pm) while watching the race.
Catch the Melbourne Cup at Fern & Kiwi on November 6, while sipping on Moet at $60++ per bottle, or $18++ per glass. A special lunch menu will also be created by celebrity chef Matthew Metcalfe.
At the Aussie watering hole, Prince Of Wales, you can watch the annual race, while enjoying their promotion of three Victoria Bitter beers for $20.
Beers go at $10nett per pint from 2-8pm, as you follow the exciting Melbourne Cup "live" at 282 & Citygolf, one of the highest sports bars in the world.
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Maison Martin Margiela x H&M
This collaboration took many by surprise when the news first broke. Revered for its progressive, avant-garde aesthetic, Maison Martin Margiela is an elusive, renegade-type fashion label that revolts against fashion conventions. H&M, on the other hand, is our favorite retail giant who makes the latest fashion trends accessible to all. What appears to be an unlikely pairing was put to rest with a statement by Margiela in a press release: “The democracy of our fashion has always been at the center of our creativity and the collaboration with H&M allows us to push this instinct further.” If you don’t know already, the coveted collection for both men and women will be available on November 15 at H&M and consists of re-editions of iconic Margiela pieces. Think masculine, oversized shapes, sharp tailoring and clever convertible designs. Each item is tagged with a label specifying the year and season of origin.
Prices range from $17.90 for a necklace to $549 for a pair of leather boots.
Preen x ALDO Rise
Started in Spring/Summer 2012, ALDO Rise is the Canadian footwear brand’s Fashion Week collaborations program that promotes up-and-coming designers in their runway show. Mark Fast, Preen, JW Anderson and Libertine were the first four to join the scheme to create a capsule collection of affordable, high-fashion shoes. Good news for those who have missed the debut: Preen is back with Aldo Rise for a second season. This time, Justin Thornton and Thea Bregazzi put forth a collection of platform booties ($399 each) inspired by the English garden, with butterfly and floral prints on suede and leather. For a more understated look, there are also color-blocked and solid-colored options.
Available at ALDO.
JW Anderson x Topshop
One is a rising British-born designer and an Emerging Talent nominee for the uber-prestigious British Fashion Awards 2012. The other, also from the UK, needs no introduction. Launched in Singapore on September 30, this hotly anticipated 32-piece collection (prices from $69 upwards) takes its cue from Anderson’s quirky and androgynous ready-to-wear label. The look is decidedly preppy with a punk edge—a varsity jacket or knitted pullover worn over a white shirt with pleated skirt; or a quilted, boxy top with oversized paisley print paired with tartan (Anderson’s trademark) pants. Didn’t manage to score a piece this time? Fret not; there will be a second JW Anderson and Topshop collection coming out early Spring 2013.
Available at Topshop (Knightsbridge).
Hemingway Design x Hush Puppies
Not your usual high-low fashion collaboration (unlike its past collections with Anna Sui), Hush Puppies teams up with a multi-disciplinary design agency that does everything from branding to urban design. Spearheaded by Jack Hemingway, son of Wayne Hemingway (of Red or Dead fame), this premium footwear collection for men revamps the American brand’s iconic styles with a ’50s hipster vibe. Brogues, desert boots, Chelsea boot and brothel creepers (from $239 upwards) feature bright pops of color, contrast stitching and a lettering crepe-style sole. Not a big fan of brights? Take your pick from a range of neutral colors like grey, brown and navy.
Available at various outlets, including Hush Puppies (Great World City).
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1.) Rueang Kong Nam Pu (1974) by Suwannee Sukontha (The pen-name of Suwannee Sukontiang) and Wongtanong Nuntakhwang
This semi-autobiographical novel is a chilling account of drug addiction, giving a mother’s perspective on a young man’s battle with dope.
2.) Pee Saht (1957) by Seni Saowaphong
Considered one of the greatest works of Thai modern literature, this novel, which found popularity with the democratic movement of the 1970s, is the story of an aristocratic woman and a young lawyer from a farming village which explores a generational conflict of values.
3.) Fah Boh Gun (1958), a collection of short stories by Lao Kham Hom (Kamsingha Srinok)
These 17 stories capture the poverty and supposed “backwardness” of rural Thailand, carrying many lessons that still hold true in the present political climate.
4.) Muang Mum-Chak (City of Right Angles) (2000), a collection of short stories by Prabda Yoon
Widely praised for breathing new life into the Thai literary scene, Prabda’s first collection of short stories blend a post-modern perspective with his experiences living in New York.
5.) Ek Ka Bu Rut Ti Nueng (1973), a collection of short stories by Humorist (The pen-name of Aob Chaiyawasu)
Aob wrote sarcastic, hilarious and self-reflexive takes on everyday life as Humorist, one of his many pen-names. He’s still relevant today, and you’re guaranteed more than a few laughs.
6.) Khamphiphaksa (The Judgement) (1982) by Chart Korbjitti
Like a Thai version of Albert Camus’ The Stranger, this novel examines the plight of an outsider as he is judged by a crowd of villagers. If you’ve seen the 2006 film adaptation, rest assured that the book is much better.
7.) Ying Kon Chua (1937) by G. Sulangkanang (The pen-name of Ganha Kiangsiri)
With a lead character that’s a prostitute, this novel teaches us to not judge a book by its cover.
8.) Tang Sai Ti Sam (1982) by Girati Chana
Girati’s novel was met with critical acclaim upon its publication at a time when queer issues were largely taboo. It tells of a man who wants to be a woman and carries himself with pride.
9.) Sing Mee Chee Wit Tee Riak Wa Kon (So-called Human Being) (1999), a collection of short stories by Win Leowarin (The pen-name of Somchai Liao Warin)
Not as serious as other academic books, this collection explores the many nuances of human nature. Amazingly, it’s a real page turner.
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His favorite mangas: Toriyama Akira [Dragon Ball], Inoue Takehiko [Slam Dunk] and Adachi Mitsura [Rough]
Essential work: Hesheit 1+2+3 and 4+5+6, published by Typhoonbooks
Why you should care: He contributed to Katch and A Day magazines, before making his name in the motherland of manga, Japan, where he was named one of ELLE Japan’s 250 people to watch.
What drew you to be a cartoonist?
I’d always loved drawing but I wasn’t too ambitious. I never thought my dream would come true and I’d be able to draw and make a living wherever I go. In 1999, [music producer] Boyd Kosiyabong paid me for some of my artwork. From that day on, I thought, this is my life. Since then, I’ve drawn on and on.
What was your life like in Japan?
I studied at a small language school in Kobe, spending my days off working on my art to exhibit. At first, I was making these small animations in Thai, which I had to provide Japanese subtitles for. Later I ditched dialogue altogether and would just play piano to give my animations a soundtrack. Eventually, more people got to know my work.
Why did you return to Bangkok?
Over my three and a half years in Japan, I let myself become almost Japanese, just from my surroundings. I found that my work, based on my life there, started to look like other Japanese artists. I felt like I needed to distinguish myself as a Thai artist, so I came back. Thailand is awesome; there is such a variety here, people doing all kinds of jobs. In Japan, people supported my work; here, I’m kind of unknown. But It’s important to know who you are and where you come from. If everything always ended up in the right place, I might forget how lucky I am to be where I am today.
What’s your style like now?
My mangas are told through my own experiences, which means I have real messages to get across. When it comes to symbolism or plot, I have a deep well to draw inspiration from. In some of my works you’ll find things like cities in the sky, but there are reasons behind all the images and plot twists. Everything has reason.
Do you want your stories to convey a moral?
Just read and be happy; don’t worry. When I read a manga, I am relaxed. I’m freaked out by the idea that, armed just with a pencil, I could create something that someone might read and then want to kill someone. That’s not my way. One time while I was watching TV, a royal message was broadcast along the lines of “Don’t bring a useless thing into the world.” That message has stayed lodged in my memory.
What’s your favorite creation?
I am so proud of my Hesheit series [1998-2003]. It is an extraordinary work, filled with pure emotions and nothing made-up. I was able to express all of my true feelings. It turned out exactly as I had hoped and wished.
What do you think of the World Book Capital title?
It might be a good thing and encourage more people to read. Personally, I don’t think it’s too bad here. I think around half of people like to read. It’s great that we got crowned World Book Capital rather than the worst city for something.
Favorite books: The Stranger by Albert Camus and Of Love and Other Demons by Gabriel García Márquez
Essential work: Karn Mueng Rueng Surreal, published by the Thai Writer Network
Why you should care: His self-published collection of short stories won big at the SCG Indy Awards in 2011 for the twist they put on our confrontational form of politics.
What inspires you to write?
I read a lot, both non-fiction and fiction. I’m also informed by TV news and gossip. For me, writing is just the easiest way for me to reflect on things. If I had the know-how I’d make a film, but I’m more interested in writing than anything else.
How did you first get published?
I started really writing about two years ago. My first short story, “Me in the Dark,” tells of a man eating his own flesh. At first, I didn’t even think of compiling my works, but I started posting my stories to the Young Thai Blog (http://youngthai.blogspot.com/) every month. After I was recognized at the SCG Indy Awards last year, Mr. Rueangkit Rakkanchanan, the secretary of the Thai Writer Network, gathered my short stories together to be published as Karn Mueng Rueng Surreal.
Is your writing overtly political?
Not really. Although I try to apply a twisted logic to the news through my writing, I don’t directly approach topics like social class, serious politics or civil rights, even though they interest me greatly. That’s not the duty of writers like me. I like to inject dark humor into my stories. Some people call my work blank post-modernism, but that’s up to the reader to interpret. I’m proud of my literary style. I like to use satire to explain certain phenomena. In Karn Mueng Rueng Surreal, I used sarcasm and magical realism to communicate the idea that politics is all around us—we cannot run away from them.
What would you like readers to take from your writing?
I would like to be an inspiration to readers; to make them think more about their surroundings. I want to help people to read between the lines about public issues, to approach things in both a serious and amusing manner.
What’s next?
I’m putting together a collage-style novella, dubbed Pi Pit Ta Phan Siang, about the noise that fills our lives. There’s not yet a publication date, and the work is still incomplete. I will also have a short story included in a collection called Chai Kha Rueang San Vol. 4 by Khana Khian, for which Anusorn Tipayanon (one of Thai famous writers) is editor in chief.
What do you think of Bangkok being named World Book Capital?
I’m sure it’s with good intentions, but I haven’t seen any policy about what it’s meant to do. As far as writing and media, our country lacks diversity. And online social networking already eats into whatever media consumption we had. We can’t complain that reading levels are decreasing. It would probably be more apt if Bangkok was named World Gossip or Fashion Magazine Capital.
Favorite books: Warren Buffet Speaks: Wit and Wisdom from the World’s Greatest Investor by Janet Lowe and Taj Mahal Bon Dao Ang Karn (Taj Mahal on Mars) by Tinakorn Hutangkul
Essential work: Sing Tee Yoo Nok Jai, published by Happening
Why you should care: Better known as the frontman of the band Apartmentkhunpa, Tul Waitoonkiat is taking his art to a whole new level; his poetry has even featured in an exhibition as neon lights on a wall.
How did you first get into poetry?
I started composing lyrics when I was a teenager after first hearing Pathomporn Pathomporn’s album Chao Ying Dok Mai Kub Chao Chai Hang Talae. I started keeping a notebook with all my thoughts and ideas. Then one day, it just seemed right to use all the emotions I hadn’t put into song lyrics.
How do you feel about negative feedback?
I was so proud to see my poems collated. I self-published my octameter poetry under the title 1905 2553, inspired by the 2010 military crackdown. Some people like them, some people are puzzled. They’re right to be puzzled, because when I wrote them I didn’t intend for them to be shared. It’s just feelings I had to get out. The circumstances touched me so much that I was able to compose the poems in just one day.
Poetry is often overlooked in Thai literary circles. Is it hard to get recognition?
No. Poets know in advance that the game we play is one that seldom concerns many people. As a result our tiny group is stronger and more resilient than others. Poetry isn’t simply words on a page—it can be just a powerful as the spoken word.
Who’s your favourite poet?
I think Mai Mee Ying Sao Nai Bot Kavee by Sakareya is a nice, contemporary change from traditional poetry.
What are your thoughts on the current state of reading in Thailand?
People like reading, even though the reading culture is not as entrenched as in other countries. Bangkok has one of the highest amounts of Facebook users—people cannot use it if they don’t read. Reading is not only about books. I don’t believe all the negative statistics.
What is your latest published work?
It’s a collection of poems I wrote before 1905 2553, which was compiled as part of Sing Tee Yoo Nok Jai by the Happening label and published at the beginning of the year.
What are your thoughts on Bangkok being named World Book Capital?
You would hope that it at least means that plenty of public libraries will be set up with good varieties of books and audiovisual aids. We still suffer from the lack of world-acclaimed novels translated into Thai. More budget also needs to be set aside to hold Bangkok short-story awards and support local writers by translating a select few Thai books into English each year, to raise international awareness of Thai literature. In comparison, putting ads on TV is just an expensive waste. Instead, we could use places like the BACC as hubs for encouraging more reading.
Favorite books: GamGej by Utsana Phleungtham and The Castle by Franz Kafka
Essential work: Phon Ngan Kong Nak Kian Ta Nud Sai Phu Doi Pattana, self-published under Understandbooks (Khaojaipim)
Why you should care: The resolutely independent Worawich Suptaweesang turned his back on his engineering degree to publish under his own imprint.
Why become an author?
As an upper secondary school student, I loved to read. I would save my money to buy books: mangas, classics—whatever tales made it my way. At that time, there was a magazine named Katch, which had a column that took submissions from readers. I sent in one of my short stories and it got published. Ever since, I’ve thought becoming a writer would be an interesting path. Later on, I was admitted to an engineering program so I had to study.
What are your inspirations?
Everything has happened so suddenly. Early on, I would watch the news and keep abreast of social issues to inject into my storytelling. Maybe readers wouldn’t realize this, but I wanted them to feel the same way I did.
Why did you launch Understandbooks?
I had the idea of being a self-publisher, because I wanted to be considered for the S.E.A. Write Awards. So far I’ve put out Phon Ngan Kong Nak Kian Ta Nud Sai Phu Doi Pattana, a collection of my short stories.
Do you ever tire of writing?
Nowadays, I find it hard to get any writing done—it’s like I’m looking for a way out. My storytelling is simply not strong enough. I’m trying to read and travel more to have experiences to write about. I am always looking for something new.
What are your future plans?
Each month I write a short story for Pol La Mueang Rueang Son, a club where many writers come together to recite their works. I have a big desire to write a novel; I just need to settle on which of my stories I can expand upon. Hopefully I’ll have a novel out within a year. I’d also like to write a screenplay.
What do you think about Bangkok being named World Book Capital?
I’d like people to come together to discuss books like they do about Thailand’s Got Talent or soap operas. If the city is to truly be a World Book Capital, we must start promoting reading. The BMA could subsidize small, independent publishers to put out more informative, classic literature or translated works, so that people have more reading options.
Want a copy of Worawich’s books? We have four copies to give away. Write to [email protected]
Favorite books: The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka and Pan Din Aeun by Kanokphong Songsamphan
Essential work: Kam Sap, self-published under Nok Khao
Why you should care: Since his youthful beginnings as part of A Team Junior learning the ropes at A Day Magazine, Katanyu Sawangsri has published an acclaimed collection of short stories, Kam Sap.
How did you get interested in literature?
After reading lots of books, it was like something struck me and I wanted to express my own stories, too. I’ve take influence from my favorite authors like Franz Kafka, Haruki Murakami and Milan Kundera. It doesn’t mean I write as well as them, but I’ve just gained ideas from them.
How did you first get published?
My first collection of short stories was Yu Kab Ku, which was compiled from a column I contributed to Happening Magazine. The editor there, Vip Burapadecha, was behind this. The stories talk about a mad person living with ordinary people, and what everyone learns from this.
Tell us about your publishing house?
After my short story “Kwam Song Jam” was published in [literary magazine] Cho Karaked, I gained the confidence to establish my own publishing house. I only really intended to put out my own books, so I could do things the way I want. I thought it might look odd if I put things out independently without a publishing title. So far I’ve released a collection of short stories called Kam Sap.
Is it hard to make a living as a writer?
Here in Thailand, only a tiny number of people read seriously. Competition is so high from other media. You really have to convince people that your book is worth reading. It’s almost as if you have to write a masterpiece. And then you’ve got to produce consistently or people will forget you. Right now, I’m just a tiny sprout in literary circles—the time is not yet right for harvesting—but I’m determined to prove myself.
What’s next?
These days, I work as a freelance MC for events. I’m also trying to write a romantic novel in the vein of One Day (David Nicholls’ novel, since adapted into film), but in my own style—not some kind of soap opera. Writing a novel is a big deal. I’d also like do more photography, focusing on black-and-white photographs.
What do you think of Bangkok being named World Book Capital?
It doesn’t make sense from the get-go. I haven’t seen anything about this city that makes it a World Book Capital. We just seem to announce that we want to be something, then think all we have to do is hold a few events. Before you know it, the whole thing has blown over. Reading is just not that big here.
Bangkok's governor discusses Bangkok's world book capital title
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Milin, Tube Gallery, H&M & Playhound. 1/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-690-1000. BTS Siam.
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First, a few things to keep in mind...
1. Holes
An open and irregular hole structure. This is the easiest way to spot artisanal bread, as industrially processed loaves have small, regular holes.
Creamy and elastic. The elasticity is another distinguishing feature when compared to industrial-made breads.
The crust is dark and blistered. It’s flavor is naturally caramelized and should have a real crisp to it. This is bread, not toast.
Acidic and sweet. Even though there’s no sugar added, the long fermentation process will convert starch to sugars in the dough, which provides the natural sweetness but also the slightly acidic taste.
A good artisanal bread can be kept for 2-3 days. We recommend wrapping it in a linen cloth and keeping it in a wooden box at room temperature. Inside plastic, it might go moldy. You can also place it in a plastic bag and freeze it, then defrost and reheat it in a normal oven for 2-3 minutes.
What is artisanal bread?
It’s essentially bread that is handcrafted using traditional techniques. In our bakery, almost everything is handmade. The results are an improved flavor, aroma and texture. The way we do things is almost impossible in an industrial bakery. Artisanal methods give you beautiful quality bread, not just a loaf of chemicals and air. They are much more satisfying to eat and a lot healthier.
Is artisanal food becoming more popular?
Yes, both Thais and foreigners are going back to traditional methods of food production for better quality and flavor. About half of our customers are Thai and Japanese. They are surprised when they realize that the bread improves over a couple of days, it doesn’t just go stale. We don’t make bread for everyone. For some people, it’s just food. For some, it’s almost an obsession.
What’s “good” bread?
It is good both fresh and toasted. When it is toasted, it gives a satisfying crunch, which fills your head with noisy pleasures. It is like good sex: you are satisfied but you’ll want more soon.
How did you learn to make bread?
I’ve been lucky enough to work alongside a fifth generation Maitre Artisan Boulanger (Master Craftsmen Baker) which is the highest grade of baker in France, bestowed under law by the French government.
What is artisanal bread?
To me, using the status of “artisan” requires extensive training and specialization working under a Maitre Artisan for several years. This knowledge is almost unspoken and passed down from generation to generation. You won’t find this on YouTube. When I bake, every step is guided by the feelings. This will be revealed in the colors, taste and texture, which makes every bread unique.
What are the difficulties baking these?
In Thailand, the climate is completely opposite to where I worked before. I had to adapt and learn new things in the process here. I even went so far as to custom-build my oven.
Maison Jean Philippe, 086-273-4302, 083-111-5557. tiny.cc/uocwlw
Conkey’s, 089-166-6080. www.facebook.com/conkeysbakery
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62/1-4, Silom Rd., 02-632-7515. Open daily 11-1am.
An Irish Pub located right at the foot of the BTS, O’Reilly’s has a very traditional feel with its tea-stained walls, old-fashioned chandeliers and slightly old-fashioned expat clientele. Downstairs, there’s a bar and an elevated nook for the live band. Upstairs, lots of seating space plus a pool table. Rock n’ roll is prevalent; the house band play The Beatles covers every Friday, and they have good daily happy hours (4pm-7pm).
G/F Holiday Inn Express, 889 Rama 1 Rd., 02-216-2288. Open daily 11am-11pm.
Located on the first floor of the Holiday Inn Express by BTS National Stadium, new venue Asia Bar + Kitchen aims to offer a melting pot of Asian cooking and drinking, with big-name beers from all over the continent. The bar adopts a natural-meets-industrial concept with black walls, high ceilings and cane partitions. Outdoor garden seats are also available, too, for a laidback night and with soft jazz in the background.
Phayathai Rd. (Opposite Asia Hotel).
If you’re looking for somewhere with a baan baan atmosphere, then you could do worse than head to this ragtag assortment of chillout bars next to BTS Ratchathewi. Just pick a spot based on the music or the crowd, and relax with the jugs of cocktails or the beer towers. Flip-flops and shorts are fine as you kick back to the sounds of live bands covering Thai and international tunes.
3 Phayathai Rd., 02-246-5472.
Two stations away from Coco Walk, Saxophone remains one of the best places in Bangkok to catch live music since opening its doors over 20 years ago. Quality resident bands playing everything from jazz to reggae, famous acts like Koh Mr. Saxman and Nueng Jakkrawal performing weekly, and a friendly, slightly sweaty vibe make for a killer combo.
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Hom Yoga (Orchard)
We love the vibe of Hom Yoga’s latest outlet which is right smack in the heart of town. The studio’s design is inspired by a New York warehouse, featuring two bright and spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and mirrors, as well as organic timbered floors. Hom also wins our hearts with their low energy consumption heating system and use of non-toxic, eco-friendly products. They have over 60 hot classes weekly, including Hatha and Vinyasa, but their signature is the multi-level Hot Hom, which is based on Hatha and Ashtanga postures, and great for detox.
$39 for a drop-in class.
Como Shambala Urban Escape
One of the city’s longest running yoga and pilates centers offers Ashtanga, Hatha, Iyengar, Pranayama and even problem-specific classes like Back Care Yoga and Yoga for Runners. They’ve also got massage services to aid injury recovery or provide muscle tension relief in general, as well as a retail corner selling yoga apparel, props and their in-house line of massage oils and body care products.
$37 for a single class.
Yoga Movement
A small yet cozy space (think black-and-white posters, glossy wooden floors and mood lighting) in the Boat Quay area, Yoga Movement was set up by local singer and songwriter Alicia Pan. The six instructors she’s personally picked ensure that being in class makes you feel like you’re in another world (even though the studio’s located by the road). Choose from six classes here—the standouts are their Yoga Basics class (great for beginners) and their signature Monster Hot class, which happens every weekend. A portion of the money made from Monster Hot goes toward wildlife conservation.
$20 for a single class.
Yoga on Nassim
One of this year’s hot new openings, this holds classes such as Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Yogalates, and Reverse Aging Yoga, in a lush garden setting. Sessions are conducted in one of the five Balinese-style, open-air pavilions that link to a lovely outdoor pool. What we like most about Yoga on Nassim: it partners with Spa Boutique (in fact, they’re both on the same site) to provide other health-related services like colonics, detox programs and massages—holistic pampering, anyone?
$30 for a single class.
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74/4 Ekkamai Soi 22 or Pridi Banomyong 41 (next to Tor See School), 086-527-6266. www.kemissara.com
Style: This line of womenswear features minimal designs, influenced by American sportswear. “Kemissara is for working women. My clothes are not very girly but I use some textile techniques, from pleats to layering, to create interesting details that help bring out the wearers’ femininity.”
Background: The daughter of a real estate tycoon who owns Sri Panwa resort in Phuket, Krutpetch “Kem” Issara started her own fashion house seven months ago. Kem completed textile fashion courses at Chelsea College of Art and Design and London College of Fashion but her first real fashion experiences came from her time as an intern. “What I studied was just theories. But I earned real experience when I did an internship at Chloe and DvF in London, especially DvF in New York where I was working very hard seven days a week. That helped a lot when I started my own brand.” Kem will be presenting her next collection at the current Elle Bangkok Fashion Week (on Oct 14, see page 12), and will be opening her second boutique at Siam Center once renovations are completed in December.
Inspiration: Her inspiration mostly comes from deconstructing the details found in natural objects and re-presenting them through minimal cuts and lines. She claims not to follow trends, nor really read fashion magazines. “Once you see other people’s designs, they mark spots in your brain and you might end up copying those designs without even realizing.”
2/F, Central Chidlom, Ploenchit Rd., 02-793-7777. BTS Chit Lom. www.tawn-c.com
Style: As he’s personally fond of 1920s fashion, Tawn’s designs aim to be enduring and classic. “Timeless elegance is my core style. I do ready-to-wear clothes that use fine textiles and details. Women these days have several activities during the day, from their office job to an evening party, so an outfit must serve all these purposes.” Tawn C.’s signature looks are pencil skirts and delicate blouses, with adjustable patterns for all sizes. “I love to empower women with my clothes. Women wearing my outfits must feel confident in them. I don’t encourage women to hide what they think are their flaws.”
Background: A former PR consultant, Tawn Chatchavalvong only opened his first boutique at Central Chidlom this year after deciding to go back to college three years ago, at the age of 34, to retrain. “I always loved fashion but had no formal education,” explains the international relations graduate. “It was a bit awkward at first, sitting with undergrad kids and learning everything from scratch, but I gave it my all. Fashion is a technical skill you have to study.” After graduating he worked with famous designer Somchai “Kai” Kaewthong on the K and I brand, before launching his own collection.
Inspiration: “The latest collection was inspired by space travel, imagining what sartorial women would wear on a journey to Mercury. I use black and white, representing the colors of the planet, with floral details to tone it down.”
1/F, Siam Paragon, 02-690-1000. BTS Siam; 1/F, Emporium, Sukhumvit Soi 24, 02-269-1000. BTS Phrom Phong. www.kwankao.com
Style: A range of feminine mix-and-match pieces covering everything from dresses to shoes and accessories, designed to fit every occasion.
Background: The brainchild of Kwankao “Paeng” Savetavimala, celebrity, DJ and daughter of famous food connoisseur Santi Saveatvimala. Kwankao’s passion for fashion overcame her lack of formal training. “I never get bored spending hours with clothes and leather. My love of fashion drove me to visit fashion fairs overseas and learn everything I could. I did research for more than a year, before I launched my first collection.” Kwankao’s new Autumn/Winter collection, inspired by the five elements, features prints and sartorial dresses, and will be available in store late October.
Inspiration: “Kwankao’s women are modern-day ladies who might look well-mannered at first glance but actually they hide a sexy, playful side. So our items might look simple, but they hide sexy details.”
M/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-258-4230. BTS Siam.
Facebook.com/RougeRougeThailand
Style: Leather clutches and bags with artsy, surreal twists for edgy women.
Background: Best known on the Thai celeb circuit for her luscious red lips, Wannaporn “Duang” Poshyananda has been involved in the local scene for a few years. After graduating from the Instituto Marangoni in Milan she worked as a publicist for Pucci and Christian Lacroix. But last year she launched hip children’s wear line Rhapsody and then bag brand Rouge Rouge. “It wasn’t planned, actually. I was invited to design a limited-edition bag for the Zen Design Showcase project last year. So my friend and I, Marc, who was an accessory designer for Givenchy, created three geometric-style bags inspired by Milanese architecture. We called them “three sisters.” When I took them to the event, people kept asking to buy them so I decided to take it seriously.”
Inspiration: Wannaporn is now focused on Rouge Rouge, with the latest collection inspired by surrealist artists like Salvadore Dali. ”Rouge Rouge’s surreal style truly represents my character. I wish I could have my store decked out in a surreal style, too, but I have to take it step by step.”
3/F, Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), Rama 1 Rd., 087-799-0781. BTS National Stadium. www.skinonskin.net
Style: A range of women’s wear made from light, wrinkle-free fabrics. “Today’s women wish to look beautiful for an entire day but don’t want to spend time taking care of their clothes. So I create wrinkle-free clothes that are easy to wear and look after.”
Background: The four-month-old Skin on Skin is the Bangkok Art and Culture Center’s (BACC) very first fashion boutique, run by Monrissa “Beau” Leenutaphong, a Goldsmith London graduate in Image and Communications. It all started when Beau couldn’t find clothes she liked at affordable prices in Bangkok. So she started her own brand to pass on what she had learned in the UK. She got the name for the label from three core elements: the use of animal skin in terms of genuine leather; the use of skin-colored beige as a predominate color; and, finally, that the clothes aim to be comfortable and easy to wear, like a second skin. Monrissa never went to fashion school, but has learnt from her family. “I’ve never learned to make patterns. But I think it’s like drawing eyeliner, it’s common sense. It’s also thanks to my grandma and my mom who know how to sew.” She also has shown her stubborn streak in picking the location, “I opened a boutique at BACC due to my artistic side. I won’t follow the path of others. I knew it wouldn’t make a lot of money. I knew there would be problems. But I was stubborn, I wanted to help develop Thai fashion in my own way, instead of working for other brands.”
Inspiration: “To me, fashion is just another kind of art. It’s more fun when we don’t see it as fashion. That’s the core idea I’ve learned and try to convey through my collection, which is based on artistically sophisticated themes.”
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