A perennial favorite for its late night film screenings on weekends, Orchard Cineleisure is also a sure-fire bet for some truly affordable funky finds (Bugis+, eat your heart out). Here are 10 stores to check out for some cool sartorial ideas.

Frederic Sai
Up-and-coming local designer Frederic Sai adds a dash of color to his range of long-sleeved shirts ($125) with a myriad of standout colors like orange and yellow. His latest pre-Fall collection also includes tailored jackets and blazers ($195) for the preppy set, while the consignment tees from China’s I M featuring bold graphic prints ($49) are great for layering.

Depression
Arguably the most risk-taking local label in town. Designer Kenny Lim continues to pepper his flagship store with eye-popping creations. For Autumn/Winter, tees with colorful rainbow motifs for the guys while for girls, loose blouses with all-over portrait illustrations. Want something even edgier? Check out the leather studded shoes here. $39/$49 for a T -shirt and $320 for leather shoes and wedges.

J Shoes
The latest collection features easy-to-match colors and styles, leather loafers and zip-ups in earthly browns, tans and green tones for that heritage feel, while patchwork patterns adorn trimmings for that luxe effect ($189 upwards). Also look out for the newly arrived Heritage Harborough collection ($359), which uses Dainite, a British sole manufacturer known for their high quality studded rubber soles.

Fred Perry
This staple brand for fashionable men is currently having a sale of its Spring/Summer collection. Highlights include a well-made classic black umbrella with a wooden handle ($119) and sling bags ($109). Elsewhere, desirable Autumn/Winter pieces include the red cape sleeve Harrington and Herringbone three-button jackets that are perfect for the weather ($369 upwards).

Rockstar by Soon Lee
This is the only store in town which stocks the full range of Jack Spade ready-to-wear ($300 upwards) while carrying local labels like Drifters and Sifr. The Pointer men’s shoes ($100 upwards) are also fashion-forward, while for the ladies, the intricate necklaces by local designer Woon Hung made from recycled materials ($69) evoke a rustic vibe befitting the store.

Praise
One of our favorite tee labels, they continuously churn out hip prints at very accessible price points ($35 upwards). Their small standalone boutique here has a suitably rock vibe with pictures of rock bands adorning its walls. The current collection of photo-based printed tees with evocative images of city skylines from across the globe is the one to buy.

Furrmuse
These guys sure know how to stay on-trend. Their Salford Lads tees are great for both casual and office wear ($49 upwards) while there’s a wide variety of affordable vintage-inspired frames (all at $59) that almost look like the real thing. Elsewhere, the utilitarian range of shorts ($49) and long-sleeved shirts ($69) from in-house brand FÜrrMUSE are great for the weekends. Pair those with rattan loafers ($169) to stay sharp.

Lacoste L!ve
This is the first standalone boutique for the casual sports brand in town and the newest store in the building. Goods are spread across two levels (mostly women’s collection and footwear on level one and men’s upstairs). Special edition pieces like the leather backpack with removable pockets and color-blocking effect ($179) are a must while the colorful illustrations by American artist Micah Lidberg that adorn a range of tees and polos ($99 upwards) also stand out.

Leftfoot
Still the place to be for a wide range of funky footwear. Although kids come here for Vans, New Balance and Nike sneakers, the more clued-in (like popular sneaker artist SBTG aka Mark Ong) visit the store for their fix on trendy, high-end kicks. Recent highlights include the five-inch tall punk-inspired black-and-white George Cox loafers ($369) and sturdy Red Wing boots ($518) that give Dr. Martens a run for its money.

Alcoholiday
One of the biggest stores in the building. At 1,700 sq. ft., Alcoholid@y stocks vintage-inspired dresses for the ladies ($42 upwards),while the men can get their various fixes through the Americana rucksack bags by Korean brand Yellow Stone ($68), Frank Wright loafers ($159) and a wide selection of standout Stussy tees ($49 upwards). If you want something a little more exclusive, check out the Danish Design watches ($199 upwards).

South Korea’s capital is a hard nut to crack, travel-wise. Much to the disappointment of many K-pop-obsessed visitors, it can be difficult to gain insider-level intel on the city’s ultra-hip world of trendy cafés, boutiques and artsy spaces—not to mention hard-to-find restaurants with untranslated menus. But with these suggestions, you can get a slightly more local perspective.

 EAT

Bukchon Kalguksu

84 Sogyeok-dong, Jongro-gu, +822-739-6334.
The specialty here is wang mandoo guk—literally, giant dumpling soup. At the front of the restaurant, a team of veteran chefs with lighting-quick hands stuff, fold and crease doughy pockets of goodness.

Bulzip Samgyeopsal

817-28 Yeoksam-dong, Gangnam-gu, +822-3452-7273, www.bulzip.co.kr
Enjoy some top-notch soju and BBQ pork belly at this lively watering hole.

Daedo Sikdang

150-7 Samseong 1-dong, Gangnam-gu, +822-5612-2834.
Fill up on authentic Korean steak, barbecued simply with garlic and cabbage on a burner right at the center of the table. The high-quality rib-eye (from cows raised in Korea, of course) is the star of the show. It isn’t cheap. But it’s delicious—even more so when the waiter makes kkakdugi (white-radish kimchi) fried rice in the same pan used to cook the beef.

Kkanbu Chicken

809-6 Yeoksam-song, Gangnam-gu, +822-557-6460, www.kkanbu.co.kr
Stop by for the quintessential Korean late-night meal of fried chicken, fries and beer.

Sigol Babsang

549-9 Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, +822-546-1567.
A restaurant serving traditional Korean fare just off of Garosu-gil, a trendy street that by day is great for shopping, people-watching and latte-sipping. Relax atop cushions on a raised platform against walls lined with old newspapers and feast on bulgogi, kimchi pancakes, bean-paste soup, egg soufflé (less weird and more yummy than it sounds) and an array of banchan (little side dishes).

Yubyulnan

75-1 Taeyoung Building #102, Insa-dong, Jongro-gu.
This small restaurant serves up delicious ddeokbokki, a favorite spicy street food made of sliced rice cakes, noodles and egg.

DO

Hongdae Weekend Market

564-35 Yeonnam-dong, Mapo-gu, +822-325-8553. www.freemarket.or.kr
Amid throngs of students and creative types, local artisans sell crafty goods from cutesy jewelry to hand-drawn postcards to sophisticated leather credit-card holders.

SHOP

APM Luxe

199-17 Sindang-dong, Jung-gu, +822-2231-0936.
This place sells the type of clothes and accessories stocked by boutiques across Seoul, except at bargain prices.

Kyobo

B1-B2/F, 1303-22 Seocho 4-dong, Seocho-gu, +822-1544-1900, www.kyobobook.co.kr
Stock up on artsy Korean stationery at this top-notch bookstore.

O’Sulloc

170 Gwanhoon-dong, Jongro-gu, +822-2732-6427, www.osulloc.com.
This teahouse and store is part of a 33-year-old brand that harvests its leaves from fields on Jeju, a much-loved island off the country’s south shore.

Where to stay

Located at the secluded Mount Namsan, Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul (From KRW600,000 [B16,488].San 5-5, Jang Chung-Dong 2-Ga Jung-Gu, +822-2250-8000. www.banyantree.com.) has only 16 rooms and 16 suites so you’re sure to have plenty of privacy. Each room also has its own indoor relaxation pool. For a fashionable-yet-more affordable option, rooms at the W Seoul - Walkerhill (175 Achaseong-gil, Gwangjin-gu, +82-2465-2222) are from KRW265,000 (B7,280). While Bangrang Hostel (397-14 Jungnim-dong, Jung-gu, +822-6414-2246) has long been a favorite among budget travelers with rates from KRW18,000 (B495) per bed and KRW30,000 (B825) per room.

Getting there

THAI Airways, Korean Air and Asiana Airlines fly direct from Suvarnabhumi to Seoul’s Inchon Airport daily. Rates are roughly the same, starting from around B19,000 roundtrip.

Ion Audio’s Water Rocker waterproof speaker can be submerged to a depth of one meter, and comes with built-in FM radio and a 100ft wireless transmitter. It runs on a battery, so simply plug in your music player to its dock and let it float safe and dry while you make a splash, B4,590.

Elecom’s Bluetooth Water Splash Proof Speaker uses Bluetooth to play music and runs on a rechargeable battery that can be charged through USB, B3,490.

The JBL On Stage Micro III speaker is made for the iPod/iPhone, features a remote control and runs on its own battery or via USB connection, B4,990.

Don’t let its size fool you, the JBL On Tour Micro mini speakers are loud. They come in red or white, connect to your music player via cable and run on rechargeable battery or USB, B1,690.

The Jawbone Jambox is available in red or blue, featuring Bluetooth, built-in microphone and “Live Audio,” which enhances the depth and volume of your tracks. It runs on battery or via USB connection, B7,490.

Gavio’s Wrenz Speaker comes in a sleek palm-size bird-shaped design. Featuring a headphone socket, it runs on a rechargeable battery, and connects to your music player via cable. B1,990.

Where to buy in Bangkok

Elecom & Gavio. Order online at www.symbolsofstyle.com
JBL & Jawbone. 3/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-690-1000. BTS Siam.
Water Rocker. Order online at  www.gadgetandplay.com

Brewerkz
Even as it celebrates its 15th anniversary in 2012, there’s still no beating Brewerkz when it comes to microbreweries in Singapore. A Clarke Quay mainstay since 1997, Brewerkz is known for both quality and affordability and like any good brewery, it isn’t afraid to push the envelope. Planned innovations this year include a Blueberry Meade, Ginger Beer and Belgium IPA. (They’ve also been bottling beers for the likes of Spizza.)

RedDot BrewHouse
RedDot Brewhouse was the first bar and restaurant along the river bank to design a steel structured glass roof, allowing you to savor the unique craft beers like RedDot Lime Wheat and Monster Green Lager with hearty char-grilled fare and modern European cuisine while enjoying the breathtaking backdrop of the Singapore River under the stars.

Sque Rotisserie & Alehouse
Run by the Emmanuel Stroobant Group, this casual bistro and bar seats a whopping 256 folks. They don’t brew their own, but you can throw back any of the 10 draught beers on offer, including Kostrizer Schwarzbier and London Pride (both from $11 for a half pint). They also have a list of over 200 international beers such as Hitachino Nest Extra High ($20) and Double Bastard Ale ($38.50)—although frankly it’s almost unnecessarily long and the web-sourced reviews of each don’t much lower the intimidation factor! They’ve also got a one-for-one happy hour deal on all draught beers from 11:30am-6:30pm (Monday-Friday).

The Straits
Previously known as Archipelago, this iconic microbrewery may have changed its name, but everything else remains the same. You’ll find Archipelago Brewery’s signatures like Belgian Wit, Bohemian Lager, Irish Ale and Summer Ale as well as regulars like Heineken, Tiger, Kilkenny and Guinness Draught on tap ($15 a pint). Kitchen highlights like BBQ pork ribs ($20.80) make the perfect accompaniments to your favorite brew.
 

Murrah

Thailand’s only dairy buffalo farm has been at it for almost 10 years now. The milk of the Murrah breed of water buffalo tastes great and is a little creamier than cow’s milk. What’s more, the owners tell us it’s OK for those allergic to cow’s milk to drink it. Other products include fresh mozzarella cheese, yoghurt and ghee. Also, do dip into one of their jars of garlic butter, perhaps with some multigrain bread from BBB (see below). And if you’d like to try more of their food, they have their own restaurants in Cha Choeng Sao (near the farm) and Ramkhamhaeng with cheese-focused dishes like green salad with mozzarella and baked spinach with cheese.
Murrah House, 211/3/8 Sammakorn, Ramkhamhaeng Soi 112, 02-373-2992. www.murrahmilk.com. Open daily 10am-10pm.

Bangkok Bread Boys

On top of homemade breads like soy and linseed (B100), olive and thyme (B140) and apple and cinnamon, Bangkok Bread Boys also serve up snacks and sweets like their delightful macadamia nut brownies (B40 a piece) or fruit and banana mix (B180). And their latest product really adds another layer of flavor—mango, lime and ginger jam (B120). To taste all for yourself, they recommend going sharesies with friends and placing a big order at [email protected]. You must order by 6pm the day before delivery. Delivery fees are determined by distance. www.bangkokbreadboys.com. 083-016-0877.

Twist

Twist’s fresh juices are popular at many international schools, but it’s not only kids who like the stuff—we do, too. With the promise of using only fresh fruits (no added sugar or artificial colors), the result is flavorsome refreshment in a bottle. Try the Guilty Passion (passion fruit, banana, carrot, pineapple, lime and honey, B75) or Liquid Love (pineapple, carrot and passion fruit, B85), available from a bunch of retailers around town.
Nichada Plaza (39/777 Soi Nichada Thanee, Samakkee Rd., Pakkred, 02-911-6839), BKK Bagels (G/F, Maneeya Center, 518/3 Ploenchit Rd., 02-254-8157. www.bkkbagelbakery.com. Open Mon-Fri 8:30am-6:30pm; Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm), Gastronom (Yunomori Onsen & Spa, A-Square, Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02-661- 3754. Open daily 10:30am-9pm).

Olives & More

You might have sampled their products at many hotels and restaurants around town, without realizing Olives & More’s gourmet goods are also available in places like Central Food Hall Chidlom. Think such fine fare as harlequin olives (green Chalkidiki and purple Volos olives with peppers, garlic, chili and black pepper, B130) sourced from the Mediterranean and imported from the UK’s The Fresh Olive Company (www.fresholive.com) and lovely roasted red and yellow baby plum tomatoes from the UK’s Sunblush Company. Other products include grilled aubergine and preserved lemon.
Central Food Hall, Central Chidlom, Ploenchit Rd., 02-661-3754. www.olivesandmore.co.th. Open daily 10am-10pm.

Sloane’s

After quitting his job as an executive chef at a five-star hotel’s steakhouse restaurant here in Bangkok to focus on his family, Joe Sloane couldn’t help but start cranking out sausages in his backyard. At first it was just for friends and family, but now he runs an online shop where he sells handmade head cheese and blood sausage alongside his range of classic sausages. Varieties like the Cumberland and Toulouse are well-seasoned and pack quite some flavor—so it’s no surprise that Sloane’s 25kg of meat sold out so fast at the last Farmer’s Market. Another plus is he buys only what he calls “happy pigs” from local farmers he knows well.
www.sloanes-sausages.com

Goodfood4uBKK

These guys do a variety of delicious sauces, sides and spreads, like ratatouille (B160), beetroot and chickpea (B150) and cauliflower and fennel (B160). There are no artificial colors or preservatives, and they’re also trying to use locally-grown organic ingredients as much as possible. The owners say their youngest customer is an 11-month-old kid who really digs their hummus—and so do we. Another totally yummy treat is their scone with passion fruit. They deliver to central Bangkok with no delivery charge for orders over B400.
www.goodfood4ubkk.com. 084-149-0983

Spoonflower

Spoonflower delivers healthy and organic snacks to your home or office. Their granola (B250) is probably the highlight, along with treats like wholemeal banana, raspberry and white chocolate muffins and peanut butter and pecan oatmeal bars. The owner also tells us she’s trying to support local organic farmers whenever she can. An email is sent out every Fri to let you know what’s available from her kitchen and orders must be in before 9am the following Mon. It’s B50 for delivery, but they only cover the Sukhumvit zone.
tiny.cc/5g8fkw or 084-935-5656

Bo.lan's Farmer's Market is held at Bo.lan (42 Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02-260-2962-3) on the first Sat of every month from 8:30am-2:30pm. More details at tiny.cc/6r5jkw.

Astrid Dahl Studio Gallery
Located in one of Boat Quay's refurbished shophouses, Australian artist Astrid Dahl’s studio is quaint yet lively, with mixed media painting classes held every Tuesdays through Thursdays. Perk up your living room with one of Dahl’s colorful and impressionistic landscape works, available for sale from $800.

Absinthe Artisan
The fact that this elegant French spot would move to Boat Quay from Bukit Pasoh says a lot about the newfound optimism surrounding the Singapore river. It’s the perfect place to unwind with a glass of good wine and slices of cheese. For a hearty meal, don’t miss their signature Foie Gras Poêlé ($29), pan fried foie gras accompanied with warm blinis and morello cherries, or the Lapin ($39), braised rabbit leg Provencale-style, served with crushed potatoes and broccolini. Très magnifique.

Bar 57
Hole-in-the-wall establishment it may be, but its happy hour is, by far, one of the best in the area. On weekdays, happy hour runs all day (except Fridays, when it ends at 9pm), with standard house pours and bottled beers at $8, draft beers at $6 per glass, Stolichnaya vodka and Clan Gold whiskey at $98 per bottle, and a beer bucket of five bottles at $35. Ladies enjoy free flow of champagne, wines and vodka mixes all night on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Colombo Restaurant
It might not be new, but it still has the best view on the Boat Quay strip from its fifth floor, rooftop spot, as well some of the most authentic Sri Lankan cuisine (think crispy onion-and-chickpea-flour fritters, hearty, mouth-numbing lamb dishes, and cheese-stuffed naan) in Singapore. Make sure you call ahead to reserve seats.

Heirloom Gallery
A must if you’re a serious timepiece collector. Owner Shawn Tan opened his shop here 10 years ago and continues to attract a following for his collection of rare vintage wrist and pocket watches dating from the 1900s. Highlights include supremely hard-to-find Rolex and Cartier pieces, and rarer brands like Germany’s A. Lange & Söhne. Prices are $600-25,000.

Hom Yoga
Bit of a buzz about these folks right now, with their new outlet just opened at Orchard. Here, you can ease into a variety of hot yoga styles, including Hot Yang, Hot Hatha and Hot Flow. Eco-conscious yogis will also appreciate the use of energy-efficient lighting, a filtered water fountain and eco-friendly cleaning products in the studio.

The Juban Stand
If you love Tokyo’s popular tachinomiya, or standing bars, this new watering hole with the same concept is a definite go-to. While not completely chairless (30 bar stools line the walls and outdoor patio), the minimalist, open interior lets people move around and mingle freely in the 1,000 sq. ft. space. Drinks are decidedly Japanese-focused, too, with beers like Asahi ($10 a pint), as well as a range of sake, umeshu, shochu and Japanese Nikka whiskey (from $7 per shot/glass).

Check out our review of new bar Fern & Kiwi.

Mad Dog Bistro & Bar
This recent arrival to Boat Quay features a casual, upbeat vibe and an Italian-fusion menu with signatures like beer battered fish and chips ($21.50) and Mad Dog Smoked Duck ($19.90). Choose from a wide selection of wines to go along with your mains, such as the Chateau Laffitte Laujac 2005 ($95 per bottle) while you’re here.

Nothing But Green
One of the latest organic joints in town, this opened in May. While its outlet at Tanglin Shopping Centre carries only organic retail products, the café here is slowly packing the office crowd in with a small but delectable range of organic food. The affordable set lunch at $12 gets you an appetizer, a main and a drink (choose from a mix of sandwiches or rice dishes), or try the “Spize Up My Life” curry chicken stew ($10.90) for something a little heartier.

PIMABS
This atelier by owner and designer Leslie Chia has been drawing in the likes of Dick Lee ever since 2004 with an exclusive range of custom shirts and jackets (yes, even before the recent preppy look actually took off). Chia customizes each piece based on his own ready-made collection, with suits from $1,500 upwards and shirts $300 upwards.

Ramen Bar Suzuki
While the ambiance at this unassuming, new 30-seater joint is nothing to shout about, the ramen is some of the best we’ve tried. Specialties include tsuke-men with tonkotsu soup ($14.90), which is limited to just 10 servings a day and only available during dinner service. Hakata-style Jet Black Tonkotsu Ramen ($16.20) is another highlight: the addition of squid ink, fried garlic and black miso make this a unique show-stopper.

Toni & Guy Essensuals
For a quickie hair fix, head to the latest Toni & Guy outlet, which opened in February. Style director Clement Lim charges $70 for a stylish rework of your coiffure while a regular cut is just $35. You can also go for the scalp treatments ($65)—popular among stressed-out bankers nearby—or coloring services (from $90).

Upper Crust
The organic bakery’s latest outlet is a cozy space with the same diverse range of sandwiches that’s perfect for both takeaway or eating in at one of its 50 seats. All sourdough and soft breads are handmade fresh daily, with creative sandwiches such as the special egg tofu ($8.90), roasted veggies ($7.90), and smoked salmon ($10.90)—a must for the health-conscious.
 

Few cities have pulled off a river clean up quite as successfully as Singapore did almost three decades ago. But even today, few of us think of it as a destination of its own, the way we might about Sydney harbor or the San Fran waterfront. Despite endless “overhauls” (yawn) and “relaunches” over the years there’s still too many crappy venues, too much wasted space, and, frankly, it remains too much of a pain to get from one end to the other. That, though, looks like it’s all about to change.

Tyrone Tabing, Executive Director of the Singapore River One (SRO) organization (a recent ‘outgrowth’ of an Urban Redevelopment Authority consulting process) thinks there’s a “really exciting opportunity” at hand. The SRO’s plan, he explains, is to have “one voice for the precinct, to unify the three Quays while embracing the uniqueness of each.” And, sure enough, while his team busy themselves with clean-up operations of a different kind (together with the police force and various stakeholders they were behind the Better Singapore River Campaign, which has already scored some quick wins in cracking down on touting at Boat Quay), even bigger changes are afoot. In January, river taxis will begin offering a true ferry service between the Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel and the Marina Barrage, making a $3 commute to the CBD, or even an after-hours, boat-based bar hop, a real option. (Details are still hazy, but it looks like the enviro-friendly boats will run every 10-15 minutes from 7am-10pm, with more than a dozen landing points and regular, express and even bookable “taxi” services.) Looking even further ahead, when the dust settles at the construction site next to Brewerkz in 2017 there’ll be the shiny new Fort Canning MRT station (on the Downtown line) meaning you won’t have to trudge all the way from Central to get to Robertson Quay.Small wonder there’s already an SG River app in the works.

In advance of all that, there’s been a flurry of activity along the Robertson Blue stretch (essentially Kith Café all the way to Limoncello) over the last year, and it now gives even Tiong Bahru a run for its money in the laidback charm stakes. A $15.6 million facelift of Clarke Quay is currently underway, complete with a new heritage-inspired frontage and some 15 new F&B outlets by year-end, including sexy new St. Tropez-inspired bar Cassis, opening in November. Right next door, the space occupied by the old River Valley Swimming Pool reopened earlier this year as The Foothills Fort Canning, home to hip art space Galerie Utama and host, last month, of the über-cool Sub-Sonic Live party (From October 6-13, it’ll also be home to a pop-up pavilion as part of Archifest 2012).

Elsewhere, the tenant mix is starting to change. Central, long known principally for its Japanese food joints (including newbie Zero.Zero and Osaka’s Chíso Zanmai), saw funky HK lifestyle store Goods of Desire (G.O.D) move in in July. Chan Iz-Lynn, Vice President of Far East Retail Consultancy which brought them in, describes the location along the river, with its “history as ethnic melting pot that is both tradition and innovation, as “the perfect complement to the brand’s celebration of authentic Asian culture through humor and creativity, all packaged in modern design.” Meanwhile, Ty Tabing is frank about the fact that neighboring Boat Quay has for too long been home to too many seafood operators. “It was a vicious cycle downward for them,” he says, “but that’s begun to change.” Indeed, it’s at the new look Boat Quay (see our hot dining, nightlife and even beauty recommendations at Boat Quay) that you can most readily get a sense of the precinct’s rapidly evolving identity. Gone (mostly) are the touts and the whole ‘bait-and-switch’ routine, in their place are an increasing number of upscale restaurants and other lifestyle offerings—read on for more!

You heard it here first folks: The Singapore River—hottest lifestyle destination in town by 2020.

It's almost Craft Beer Week in Singapore!
Find out where to get craft beer at the Singapore River.

Brotzeit
Their Oktoberfest 2012 celebration stretches longer than the previous editions, kicking off at the Brotzeit 313@Somerset outlet (September 27-30) before moving on to the Raffles City outlet (October 4-7). The merrymaking ends at their VivoCity outlet from October 11-14. On offer are a special Bavarian menu featuring freshly baked giant soft pretzels, as well as their Oktoberfest Platter that'll have everything that's hearty (very German) on it— garlic pork sausages, pork chops, as well as Brotzeit's famous slow-roasted pork knuckles. The seasonal Paulaner Oktoberfestbier will also be available on draft.

Central Fountain Square, Clarke Quay
It's free and easy but no less fun this Oktoberfest season at Clarke Quay with Erdinger beer booths by the likes of Alegro, Fern & Kiwi and Shiraz, as well as German favorites such as sauerkraut and bratwurst. There'll also be live performances by local acts LGF, and Brandon & Band, plus games.

CHIJMES
From October 5-6 (7pm-midnight), toast to pints of Erdinger while you listen to German songs performed by Summer Oompah!. If you'd rather top 40 hits and modern or alternative rock, bands like Munkee Business and Rumors will also be in attendance. 

Magma German Wine Bistro

From September 22-October 7, try the traditional Beer Pork Roast ($32) or the Bavarian cheese spread with red onion rings & bread ($18). For those on a more liquid diet, celebrate in Germanic style with a special dark OktoberFest Beer ($22 per jug) or the red and fruity cherry beer ($22 per jug). All of this will be accompanied by traditional German Oktoberfest music.

Molly Roffey's
If you're around Market Street or the Bras Basah area, be sure to drop by Molly Roffey's for their sweet Oktoberfest deal: their pork knuckle set plus two pints of Erdinger White for only $52.80. They've also got a special Oktoberfest menu available from 4pm onwards, featuring all the sausage favorites.

Oktober Munich Restaurant and Bar
Listen to Bavarian folk music performed by resident band Gilbert & Friends as you down your two-liter Stärker Fresh Beer ($39, comes with complimentary tapas), and participate in their giveaway only on October 6 (6pm-1am). They're giving away $50 Oktober Munich dining vouchers too from October 14-27, so get drinking!

OverEasy
One of our favorite One Fullerton destinations is participating in Singapore's Oktoberfest celebrations for the first time (through October 13) with an Erdinger promo ($16 nett), along with menu items like crispy pork knuckle with sauerkraut and mash potato, and even a Sausage Platter. Turn it into a party by pre-ordering their Heineken keg, which holds approximately 40 pints of beer.

Paulaner Brauhaus
If you're going for strictly authentic, Singapore's only German microbrewery is probably your best bet. They've announced the prep of 6,000 liters of freshly brewed original Oktoberfest beer (sorry—bier) and promise live Bavarian music, as well as a traditional menu (lots of pork, we assume). 

Paulaner Clarke Quay
Don't confuse this place with the microbrewery—the Oktoberfest celebrations here happen outdoors at the Central Fountain Square at Clarke Quay, and starts 5pm till late. Pay $65 and you get two Paulaner beers plus all-you-can-eat Bavarian grub.

Peranakan Place
From September 17-30, the popular drinking enclave will play host to Erdinger representative Oliver Helbig's beer appreciation classes.

Swiss Club
Through September 16, the Swiss Club will hold a celebration (the longest running Oktoberfest party in Singapore) that's as traditional as it gets with a genuine Bavarian set up, authentic German dishes, as well as Erdinger draft beer.

The Terrace
Come hungry to their special Oktoberfest brunch (September 30, October 7, October 14, October 21 and October 28 from 12-3pm, $108++-152++) featuring Kielbasa and potato soup, Sauerbraten with Sauerkraut, crispy pork knuckles, wheat beer battered fish fry, as well as Bavarian black forest cake. Option for fee flow Dunkel, Erdinger Weiss, Champagne or wine is available.

Meet the Promoters

Lullaby Entertainment

Why they’re hot: Over the last few years they’ve put on all sorts of top acts, like Vampire Weekend, The Whitest Boy Alive, The Drums (in collaboration with Club Soma), Mogwai, The Naked and Famous and Herbie Hancock. Enough said.
What’s next: Next gig is planned to be next year.
Catch them at: www.lullaby.co.th

BEC TERO

Why they’re hot: One of the biggest music promoters in Bangkok, they’re known for big names and big-scale productions like the Lady Gaga extravaganza earlier this year.
What’s next for them: Hitman: David Foster and Friends live in Bangkok (Nov 5).
Catch them at: www.bectero.com

Have You Heard?

Why they’re hot: First The Pains of Being Pure at Heart (last Feb), now Beach Fossils, you’ve got this switched-on crew to thank for bringing a taste of New York cool to town.
What’s next: They are planning to have at least 3 gigs next year which are still in the process of finalization.
Catch them at: www.facebook.com/HaveYouHeard.Live

Up-and-coming concert organizers

The World May Never Know

Who: Photographer and music video director Tokin T-Kanun and one half of psychedelic synth-pop duo Stylish Nonsense Wannarit “Pok” Pongpayoon.
Why they’re hot: They’re Bangkok’s biggest proponents of experimental music, putting on shows that feature all sorts of post-rock, ambient and noise acts, including many bands on Panda Records (think Bear-Garden, Basement Tape and the latest Summer Dress), the label Pok co-founded, as well as the ongoing art-meets-music project A Part of You, A Part of Me.
Highlight reel: A Trip to the Universe: Asobi Seksu Live (May 2012), Stone Free Music Festival (Dec 2011).
What’s next: The second Stone Free Music Festival is set for mid-Nov.
Catch them at: www.theworldmayneverknow.com

Supersweet

Who: Choltida Pekanan, Krittiya Sriyabhandha, Chanachai Ohpanayikul, Tasaporn Suntornsuk and Jiro Endo.
Why they’re hot: With an equally strong passion for music, fashion and art, the crew’s concerts tend to be innovative affairs that span all three; witness their successful collaboration with Thai designer brand Sretsis to bring out London twee-pop band Summer Camp a few months back.
Highlight reel: Supersweet Live Summer Camp (May 2012), Black Lips (Jan 2012).
What’s next: Another international act is on the cards for early 2013.
Catch them at: www.supersweetlive.com

Underground Party People

Popscene

Who: Members of Bangkok rock band The Standards and friends.
Why they’re hot: Popscene Live may have been launched by The Standards, whose members are British and Thai, but rather than hog all the limelight, the boys are all up for opening up the stage to some of the city’s finest, albeit largely unheard, underground bands, plus the odd international indie act.
Highlight reel: The most recent Popscene Live with The Chipmunks, A Band Called Malice and Noah’s Tape (Sep 2012), Popscene Live featuring Brett Newski (Sep 2011) and Popscene Live Zebra & Snake (Dec 2011).
What’s next: The next indie DJ night is set for Sep 21 at Café Democ while the next Popscene Live will be at The Robin Hood on Sep 28. The Standards will also be among the acts to play on the dedicated Popscene Stage (along with headliners Young Knives from the UK) at the Culture One festival on Nov 17.
Catch them at: www.facebook.com/thestandardstunes

Goodcat

Who: This new collective only formed in Feb this year as a sort of spin-off from Club Soma. Members Som (Sirasa Kanchamas), Jib (Nisa Jewcharoen) and May (Nattanart Suprapatanant) promise a more specific music policy than their sister promoter.
Why they’re hot: Apart from their regular Britpop-centric DJ nights, which have all the ramshackle charm of a good house party, Goodcat are also supportive of fresh local underground acts performing both covers and their own material. These live sessions sometimes veer into masculine hard rock territory.
Highlight reel: Goodcat Loves Pulp (June, 2012), Goodcat Paw Fest (Aug, 2012).
What’s next: They’re planning a Beatles tribute night for early Oct.
Catch them at: www.facebook.com/goodcatgonebad

Movers, Shakers, Tastemakers

ZudRangMa

Who: DJ Maft Sai (Nattapon Siangsukon) and Chris Menist put on their first Paradise Bangkok party back in 2009, before launching their increasingly popular (and extremely hip) monthly Isan Dancehall nights.
Why they’re hot: Not too many people can lay claim to almost singlehandedly reviving entire genres, but ZudRangMa have brought not only Bangkok but the world’s attention to Isaan roots music. Mo lam and luuk thung have never been so cool! In addition to spinning Afro/Asian dancehall tunes from Accra to Ubon, they’ve presented local audiences with exciting acts like The Cambodian Space Project and opened new ears to one of the original Thai mo lam stars, Dao Bandon.
Highlight reel: Isan Dancehall 10 (Aug 2012), Paradise Bangkok 3rd Anniversary featuring Wong Dontri Molam Theppabutr, Saksiam Petchchompu and more (Feb 2012) and Paradise Bangkok with The Cambodian Space Project (Aug 2011).
What’s next: The next Isan Dancehall will be on Oct 18 at Cosmic Café with special guest the African music specialist and New York DJ Voodoo Funk.
Catch them at: www.zudrangmarecords.com

Club Soma

Who: Lady Soma (DJ Dookie) together with DJ Somarange, DJ Nosebleed and DJ/VJ Put.
Why they’re hot: Whether it’s fresh-faced indie acts or tribute nights to classic 90s Britpop, Club Soma have got you covered. And their parties are always such sweaty fun thanks to exciting new themes and ever-evolving lineups. The best news is that they’re planning to put on more live gigs in addition to their popular DJ sessions.
Highlight reel: Rebel Rebel Glamorous Indie Rock n’ Roll (Jul 2012), Yellow Submarine by Club Soma x Common Ground x Forever Delayed (Mar 2012), Summertime Party with The Drums (May, 2011).
What’s next for them: The Club Soma DJs will join the London Calling party hosted by Cheeze magazine and Dr. Martens, helping to bring British rock sounds to Sonic Ekkamai alongside bands like The Jukks and Blues’ Bar (Sep 26).
Catch them at: www.facebook.com/clubsomaparty

Chick Mountain Music Festival

What: This military-themed warm-up for the Big Mountain Music Festival at the end of the year puts the emphasis on rock music, with a line-up including The Mousses, Zeal, Pod Moderndog, Slot Machine, Palmy, Paradox, Scrubb, 25 Hours, Gan Core Club, Stamp and Lipta. However, the loudest cheers will probably be reserved for the long-awaited return of alt-rock sensation Big Ass who are back with a hot new vocalist.
When: Sep 22 (although it’s already been rescheduled three times).
Where: Khao Chon Kai Military Campus, Highway Number 3199 (Kanjanaburi-Srinakarin Dam). 034-589-237.
Tix: B990 from Thaiticketmajor.com

Big Mountain Music Festival

What: Long considered Thailand’s biggest music festival, this three-day event at Bonanza Khaoyai comprises a massive six stages (plus a couple more secret party spaces) packed with over 200 artists from all the local labels. Expect big names like Moderndog, Palmy, Bodyslam and Paradox side-by-side with rising acts like Bear-Garden, Planintemban and Abuse the Youth.
When: Dec 7-9.
Where: Bonanza Khao Yai, 236 Moo 5, Thanarat Kanongpra Rd., Nakhon Ratchasima. 044-921-113.
Tix: Prices to be announced soon, via Thaiticketmajor.com and www.bigmountainmusicfestival.com

Over Coat Music Festival

What: If Big Mountain seems a bit too rough, why not spend a winter’s day in a more heartwarming environ, with this intimate, romantic and chilled out festival. The line-up boasts the likes of Tu Phobtorn, Toe Saksit, Nat Sakdatorn, Sani and Patcha from Academy Fantasia, 123 Soul, Watcharawalee, Friday, POP, Singular, Tattoo Colour, Better Weather, Mild, Lipta, ETC and 25 Hours.
When: Dec 9.
Where: The Front By B.N. Farm, Khao Kor, Petchaboon.
Tix: B1,300 from Thaiticketmajor.com

Stone Free Music Festival

What: This niche music festival put on by The World May Never Know gang debuted last year in the idyllic surrounds of a huge disused quarry in Saraburi. Expect an innovative mix of art installations along with experimental, noise and post-rock from exciting artists from the Panda Records roster, like Stylish Nonsense, Inspirative and Desktop Error—with nothing but open fields surrounded by large cliffs and a few hundred punters for company.
When: December (Tentative)
Where: Saraburi.
Tix: TBA