Song: “Rak Sanook (NSA)”

Artist: Gene Kasidit
Label: Smallroom
Three years after separating from electro-punk group Futon to go solo with the album Affairs (2009) on Smallroom Records, gender bending provocateur Gene Kasidit is back with the playful first single from his upcoming full-length, Blonde. “Rak Sanook” laces the electronica of old with a more rock n’ roll, even grunge-y, edge, thanks in part to the contribution of Slur frontman Yeah, who helps out with composition and sound arrangement.

Song: “Tung Wayla (Wake)”

Artist: Lomosonic
Label: Smallroom
Lomosonic have evidently added a few strings to their bow since bursting onto the scene as a hyper-masculine rock band on their debut album Firework back in 2009. This, the ambitious first single from the four-piece’s second album (expected later this year), adds a bit of diversity and demonstrates a welcome maturity—not that it’s subtle or anything. A marching beat, multi-tracked vocals and a post-punk-like cascading wall of guitars all add up to something rather epic, especially when you consider the rousing lyrics from frontman Boy. A band bound for big things, it would appear.

Song: “Love Lies Bleeding”

Artist: Suharit Siamwala feat. Kongdej Jaturanrasamee
Label: Independent
Suharit can seemingly do no wrong. Fresh from teaming up with Gene Kasidit a few months ago for the electro-ballad “Krai Kon Neung,” the superstar DJ now tries his hand at some pretty slick Britpop-inspired sounds on “Love Lies Bleeding.” In-the-know Thai indie fans won’t be surprised to find that this single features lyrics composed by Wasit Mukdawijit (former frontman of Crub and Day Tripper, currently of Ooh & The Ballyhoo) and vocals from Kongdej Jaturanrasamme (frontman of 4 Tao Ter and director of the soon-to-be-released P-047, see +film, page 34). The best thing is this catchy number just about exceeds the sum of its parts. And it comes with a pretty racy music video, too.

Song: “Earth”

Artist: The Must
Label: Tai Pan
Another 90s musician treading the well-worn comeback trail is singer-songwriter Krityot Lertprapai, who released his self-titled debut album in 1995 then reached his critical peak two years later with hits like “As Sa Win Ma Mai” and “Ong Sa Tee Tang Kan.” His first single under the name The Must is a breezy slice of indie-pop with softly sung lyrics that dwell on long-distance relationships. It’s the type of track that wouldn’t sound out of place in the 60s.

Song: “Chao Sao Chai Lai”

Artist: Apirome
Label: Independent
This independent act from Sakonakorn, comprising Mate (guitar), Tai (vocals) and Folk (percussion), tasted some chart success earlier in the year with their toe-tapping, easy-going single “Wan Sa Bai.” While keeping the same acoustic, percussion-heavy sound, their latest release “Chao Sao Chai Lai” dims the mood a bit with lyrics that tell the tale of a heartbroken bride jilted at the alter who awaits her man’s return.

Song: “Motorcycle Yam Ter Yak”

Artist: Suburbian
Label: Spicydisc
Songwriter-turned-singer Soodson Vongsamuthara aka Suburbian is the guy behind the hits from many artists on labels like Bakery Music and Gancore Club. He’s also lent his own unique vocals to hits like “Chai Nai Kwam Rak” and “Tell.” Soodson continues his soul, funk and r n’b odyssey with the first single, “Motorcycle Yam Ter Yak,” from his fourth studio album, Luk Thoong R n’ B—which, as the title suggests, mashes genres in pretty far-out but happening ways.

Support local at this year's IGNITE! Music Festival, featuring bands like Cesspit, The Pinholes, Tiramisu and Youthwreck. July 6

Sentosa's Jazz by the Beach is back with acts like Ireson, bossanova group Sparkle and local band ChromaZone (featuring Richard Jackson). July 6, 13, 20, 27

We've only heard positive reviews so far over social media about Dream Academy's latest production Happy Ever Laughter starring Gurmit Singh, Kumar, Michelle Chong and YouTube duo Munah and Hirzi—go check it out. July 7-8

Having issues with buying property in Singapore? You're not alone, as award-winning scriptwriter Jean Tay explores in her play, BOOM. July 6-8

One of today's most talked about artists Damien Hirst experiments in Yayoi Kusama's blinding world of polka dots in the exhibition Spots & Dots at Palais Renaissance. Opens July 7

If you're looking to really impress friends at the dinner table, go for ToTT's Science & Cooking class, where you'll learn cool tricks like how to make eggless custard and dry sorbet. July 7

If you've been enjoying the onslaught of Broadway musicals that's been coming in, there's no reason not to catch Annie—the one with classics like "It's the Hard Knock Life" and "Tomorrow". Opens July 10

There's no time like the '90s, and Loof says it best at their first Loofapalooza night, with DJ Uncle Johnny spinning tracks from the pioneers of alternative music. July 19

Ballet Under the Stars is back at Fort Canning Park with both classical and contemporary performances, including the world premiere of Organ Concerto by renowned Dutch choreographer Nils Christe. July 20-22

A must-watch: the star-studded La Cage Aux Folles directed by Glen Goei, about a gay couple who run a night club. July 20-30

More events in Singapore, July 2012. 

Dubberfield

Label: Siam Pai Rock
Who: M (vocals), Mos (guitar), Aui (drums), Sutas (bass), Champ (violin) and DJ Warah
What: When the original guitarist of alternative rock band Sillyfool and owner of Nunglen Pub, Toey Kobpop Baiyam, decided to launch his Siam Pai Rock label, he chose to do so by signing Dubberfield, random collection of journeymen of musicians who regularly played his venue and decided to join forces.
Why: All the members have done serious time on the music scene. Aui was a member of all-female rock group Pure (first album released in 2004), Sutas played in Saturday Seiko (2002-2008) while Champ has appeared in the Teddy Ska Band and made waves with two of his own projects, BeforeChamp and Walrus. Despite these diverse backgrounds, Dubberfield boast a cohesive, dynamic sound. Lead single “Up Chill” is smooth electronic pop, but innovative follow-up “Shoes” finds the band really hitting their stride, with M’s powerful Thai vocals sitting atop a pulsating dubstep-influenced beat, pointing to an interesting future for Thailand’s dancefloors.
Sounds like: A sweet, lady-fronted Skrillex.  
Catch them at: www.facebook.com/DubberfieldBand

Electric Neon Lamp

Label: Sony Music Thailand
Who: Jen (vocals), Ton (guitar), Tae (bass), Tan (guitar) and Pak (drums)
What: Four of the members played together while in high-school in Lampang but things really got serious when they started attending Chiang Mai University and Tan joined the fold. In-the-know indie fans might remember their single “Because of You” from the Believe Records Compilation 01 released in 2007. After that they recorded an EP and released their debut album Bright Side (2009), as well as performed at Fat Festival in both 2010 and 2011. And you can expect to hear a lot more from Electric Neon Lamp now that they’ve signed with big label, Sony Music Thailand.    
Why: New single “Pawinee” is instantly likeable and shows off the band’s signature sound with its soaring melodies and sensitive vocals.
Sounds like: A slicker, more doe-eyed version of US indie faves The Drums.
Catch them at: www.facebook.com/electric.neon.lamp.band

Spoonfulz

Label: Smallroom
Who: Seph (guitar and vocals), Toon (bass), Art (drums) and Tok (guitar)
What: When Seph won the Love Is Music competition back in 2010, he enlisted two friends to record a single, “Mai Wa Tee Dai.” After those two members quit, he got to know Toon through the Siam Bass website and they then invited Art and Tok to form Spoonfulz. They sent their demo to Smallroom last year, after which label honcho and bassist for 90s band Crub, Rungroj Uptampotiwat, called them in for an audition and then signed them.    
Why: They draw from varied musical influences: Tok is heavy metal-inspired (think Iron Maiden and Megadeth) while Seph is into rock like Sillyfool and blues like Willie Dixon (this is who Spoonfulz got their name came from). This merging of tastes certainly makes for an intriguing listen.      
Sounds like: The band is still finding their feet. Their first single, “Yin Dee Ton Rub,” sounds a little too much like Tattoo Color, which is understandable given Rath (Tattoo Color’s guitarist) has produced some of their songs.   
Catch them at: www.facebook.com/Spoonfulz

Lunar

Label: Comet Records
Who: Nam-Oun
What: The latest signing to the brand new indie label run by singer, producer and songwriter Tung Jakchai Panchanon, better known as Casinotone. The label launched two months ago with Tung’s single “Journey,” before he met pretty young thing and Le Cordon Bleu student Nam-oun via Instagram (is there anything Instagram can’t do?). “I saw Nam-Oun’s profile and I thought she’s cool, confident and got good taste in music. So, I ended up writing a song for her,” explains Tung.
Why: Just when it seems every pretty face is picking up a ukulele and fronting a full band, Nam-Oun’s debut single “Got to do it” evokes a very different 90s electronic vibe. And it’s got all the right credentials: not only was the song written by Casinotone, the sound was arranged by Funky Wah Wah – two acts who helped define the Thai electronic music scene in the late 90s and early 00s.
Sounds like: Very much a younger, hipper version of Australian songstress Kylie Minogue.    
Catch them at: www.facebook.com/lunarbkk

The nearly completed work of burying all the electric and phone cables in Phuket Town’s old quarter is just one sign that much has changed there in recent years. The old communities of Chinese descent—mostly Hokkien—are not just beautifying their distinctive Sino-Portuguese shop houses, or organizing the occasional walking street fair. They’re are also rediscovering their Baba Nonya roots, a rich culture in Phuket and Penang where Chinese heritage, colonial influence and indigenous traditions combine. This heady mix is attracting an ever-growing number of galleries and cafes to the picturesque town center. So put on your walking shoes and get ready for fiery Southern Thai cuisine, Hokkien delicacies, Sino-Portuguese architecture, stimulating galleries and a solid dose of Baba Nonya nostalgia.

The historic town center’s most beautiful streets are all within walking distance of each other: Dibuk, Thalang, Phang Nga, Yaowarat. To make sure you hit all the highlights, get a hold of the excellent Phuket Town Treasure Map, either at the (1)Tourist Information Center on Thalang Rd. or at the Tai Hua Museum (see below).

Nearly every shophouse in the area is worth its salt but the (2)On On Hotel and (3)Promthep Clock Tower are the two main sites you’ve seen in countless TV ads. Another star is (4)Soi Rommanee connecting Thalang Rd. and Dibuk Rd., a former red light district, which is now the most popular street for snap-happy tourists drawn to the colorful and tightly packed shophouses. There’s a little flea market there every Saturday night. Just make sure you get there before 10pm.

A Brief History

Phuket Island (formerly known as Jungceylon) has long been a port of call for foreign trading vessels. From the 16th century on, the island was mined for its tin, and there remain plenty of reminders of the presence of the French, Portuguese and British, as well as Chinese, Malaysian and Indian influences. Phuket’s shophouses and villas, dating from the 1860s, bear close resemblance to those of British colonial Penang, and there’s a definite convergence of Eastern and Western styles.

The best way to start your journey through time is at (5)Phuket Thai Hua Museum (Krabi Rd., open Tue–Sun 11am-7pm. 076-211-224, www.thaihuamuseum.com) which transforms the oldest school building in Phuket (dating back to the 1930s) into a two-story exhibition detailing the island’s Chinese ancestry, Phuket Town’s growth to prosperity and the school itself.

Café Culture

If you need a caffeine boost after walking around then sip traditional coffee among the locals at (6)Kopi de Phuket (61 Phuket Rd., 076-212-225, open daily 10am-9pm www.kopidephuket.com). The place has a Chinese tavern-feel on the ground floor and resembles a Chinese tea house on the second. They also have a smaller café at the On On Hotel, the oldest hotel in town.

For something more Western, join the queue of expats at (7)Gallery Cafe (106 Rasada Rd., 076-211-775, open daily 8am-6pm) www.gallerycafe-phuket.com) where they serve everything from full English breakfa sts to fast dinner options like pasta. Other charming coffee shops vibe can be found at (8)Mac-chiato House (48 Thalang Rd., 076-215-701, open daily 9am-9pm) which serves homemade coffee and cakes. It’s set in the type of long and narrow old shophouse (some 20-30 meters deep), with a garden out the back, that’s particularly typical of Phuket Town. Another cute choice is (24)Pirrera Cafe Bar (39,1 Dibuk Rd. 085-782-4406)​​, an old building on the corner of Dibuk, which retains all of its original charm. And if this is your first visit, look up the longstanding (9)China Inn (20 Thaland Rd.) and (10)Dibuk Restaurant (69 Dibuk Rd.), too; both are lovely architectural specimens.

Artistic Perspective

After enjoying all this old stone, take your art appreciation to another level at Phuket Town’s countless galleries, many of which are tucked away in century-old buildings. First stop at (11)Art Room (29 Yaowarat Rd. 087-273-2413), a gallery-plus-school which sells contemporary and traditional art by students at affordable prices. For a little more ambiance, head to (12)Phuket 346 (15 Soi Romanee, Taland Rd., 076-258-108). This 100-year-old two-story building is not only a gallery, but a funky guesthouse with cafe and bar, where you can relax among the playful contemporary works. Things are also pretty fun over at (13)Wua Studio (95 Phang Nga Rd., 076-258-208), which was founded by Mr. Zen, an advertising executive who quit his job to pursue his passion for minimalist art pieces. For something more traditional, try(14)Sirasil (121 Phang Nha Rd., 076-224-532), (15)iMon Art Gallery (29/2 Phang Nga Rd., 086-961-8968) or (16)Pab Khien Thai Art Gallery (3 Tabkrasattree Rd., 089-908-6769).

Southern Dining

(17)Suay Restaurant (50/2 Takuapa Rd., 087-888-6990 open Tue-Sun 5pm-10pm www.suayrestaurant.com) serves up creative Thai fare at low prices courtesy of Chef Tammasak Chootong, formerly a chef at Banyan Tree Hotels. Try the guay tiew lod salmon khao soy (steamed salmon in rice noodles served with yellow curry, B159) and tum BBQ ma kue yao (grilled long eggplant salad with crab meat, B89). Dessert is a must, too, namely the mango sticky rice spring roll and black sesame ice-cream for just B99. Southern cuisine meets Sino-Portuguese décor at (18)Raya Restaurant (48 Dibuk Rd., 076-218-155, open daily 10am-11pm). The century-old building’s original mosaic tiled floor and walls adorned with 50s tea and coffee postergirls and pictures of Thai monarchs will take your mind off the somewhat hefty prices. The line-up of traditional Phuket dishes include moo hong (steamed pork with pepper and garlic, B250), gaeng nue poo bai cha ploo (crab meat with curry and coconut milk, B400-600), pad pak mieng goong sieb (stir fried mieng leaves with dried prawns, B200-300) and pad sataw kapi goong (stir fried sataw with shrimps, B250-350). For a lighter meal, consider (19)Kopitiam (18 Thalang Rd., 083-606-776, open Mon-Sat 11am-10pm) where they serve pocket-friendly traditional dishes like mee Hokkien (Phuket-style noodles) and bak kut teh (pork bone herbal soup).

If street food is more your thing, you’ve come to the right place. Start with the famous (20)Mee Ton Poh (214/7 Phuket Rd., 076-216-293, open daily 10am-6pm), a popular haunt for those who can’t get enough of signature dishes like pad mee Hokkien (B35-40). Next head to Yaowarat Rd. and search Soi Sun Uthit for the hard-to-spot Ji Peng stall where you can get delicious mee hun (fried noodle served with pork bone soup) for B30. Right next to it is a stall that serves Phuket’s famous dessert, o-aew (herbal jelly in red syrup), which is a recommended follow-up to your meal. If you’re still not quite full, then o-tao (stir fried oysters with eggs and crispy pork skin) is another traditional Phuket dish, and makes for a great snack. Head to Takuapa Rd., where (21)Ji Pien (Soi Phoophol 7, Takuapa Rd., 084-062-1232, open daily 5pm-11pm) have been selling this famous dish for nearly 40 years. Don’t forget to try their yummy kanom jeen, too.

After Dark

Despite, or perhaps because of, the rich heritage of the area, parts of old Yaowarat and Dibuk Roads are real hotspots come nightfall. Savvy young entrepreneurs have revamped the old shophouses and turned them into chill bars where you can enjoy live music among the local cool set. (22)Sanaeha (83-85 Yaowarat Rd., 076-218-515) looks romantic in the early evening with its big chandelier, but late on it gets packed with young partygoers. It’s a similar case at (23) Ploenchit (22-24 Dibuk Rd., 081-536-1377), where you definitely need to make a reservation on Fri and Sat nights. If you’re hungry after dancing well into the night, head to Ko Benz (163 Krabi Rd., 084-060-7799) for the most renowned tom luerd moo (pig’s blood in clear soup) in town. They’re open from 7pm-3pm, so there’s no need to go to bed hungry.

Essentials

HOW TO GET THERE

Bangkok Airways (www.bangkokair.com) round trip B6,680, Thai Airways (www.thaiairways.com) B5,760, Air Asia (www.airasia.com) B4,560 and Nok Air (www.nokair.com) B4,640.

WHERE TO STAY

Phuket 346
5 Soi Rommanee, Talang Road www.phuket346.com
Casa Blanca
26 Phuket Road, Talat Yai, www.casablancaphuket.com

Time Travel

Fancy a day spent cycling past Chedi Chet Yot or up the steps of Preah Vihear but don’t actually have the time to head there? Why not just jump in a cab and visit Muang Boran, the Ancient City (02-709-1644. Open daily 8am-5pm. www.ancientcity.com). This cultural park, about 30 minutes past On Nut BTS, features 3/4 size replicas of most of the Kingdom’s historical sites set in gorgeous parkland laid out in the shape of Thailand. You can rent bikes there—B50/B150 (single/three-speed) or bring your own and pay B50 to cycle round the Kingdom in an afternoon.

Historically Geared

Best known for its cute floating market and fire flies, Ampawa, the small town in Samut Songkram, is also a great place for a bike trip. As well as offering bikes to rent, Thai Theeb @ Ampawa (2/1, Prachasret Rd., Ampawa, Samut Songkram 082-777-5999. Mon, Wed, Thu 10am-8pm/Fri-Sun 10am-9pm) provide maps to places of interest and historical sites in the area so you can explore on your own. Cost: free for rides under 30 min, B50 for 60min, B300 for a day.

Park and Pedal

Wachirabenchatat Park (Suan Rot Fai) is a great picnic and cycling spot. You don’t even need a bike here, with rentals available for just B20-30 each, depending on the bike model or your negotiation skills. They’ll take your ID so you don’t cycle off into the sunset with their precious ride. There’s also a butterfly park and a faux urban environment (complete with traffic lights) for kids to practice riding their bikes.

Brompton M2L

UK bike manufacturer Brompton was recognized with a Queen’s Award in 2010 for its continued innovation in the design and manufacture of foldable bikes. Now it rolls out a new model for 2012: the M2L comes with a chromoly frame (which is stronger than aluminium), two-speed gear and 16-inch wheels, and is available in light blue and orange. Best of all, it weighs in at only 10.5kg, making it an easy lift up the BTS stairs. Available for B57,800.

Alton Classic 20FD

If you’re after a foldable bike that’s practical yet fashionable, look no further than the Classic 20FD, one of the latest models from Korean manufacturer Alton. Although it’s slightly heavier than others of its size (13kg), it’s got a seven-speed gear and mud guards on its 20-inch wheels—what’s more, it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. The design is clean and sleek, in white finish or beige with fenders and front basket. Available for B7,900.

Dahon Archer P8

With over 25 years in the game, the Dahon name is synonymous with foldable bikes. Its latest model, the Archer P8, weighs in at 11.5kg with a chromoly frame, eight-speed gear and 20-inch wheels—and it looks rather dashing in red. Available for B16,500, despite specs that rival the much pricier Brompton, this is our top pick.

Chevrolet FK207

Yep, Chevrolet does bikes too, and its new FK207 model sports more than just a flash look. Available in white and yellow, it’s equipped with a seven-speed gear and 20-inch wheels. Weighing in at 12kg, it’s suited for the more athletic commuter, but it carries a fairly light price tag at B8,900.

Java Fit

Designed in Italy and manufactured in Taiwan, Java’s foldable bikes are slowly forging a strong reputation among pedalers. The latest Fit model comes in two colors: midnight blue and white—with eight-speed gear, 20-inch wheels and disc brakes, weighing in at a solid 12.5kg. Available for B12,900.

Bangkok Bicycle Shops

Alton Classic 20FD & Chevrolet FK207. Rotchakon Bike, 73 Moo 17, M6 Building, Phaholyothin Rd., Bangkok. 089-633-9995
Brompton M2L. One Fine Day, 27/2, Sukhumvit Soi 105, Bangna Trad Rd., Bangkok. 02-744-4077. 087-595-7417
Dahon Archer P8 & Java Fit. Aim Bike, Soi Chaengwattana Pakret 33, Chaengwattana Rd., Bangkok. 02-984-0427

Chesa

5 Sukhumvit Soi 20, 02-261-6650. www.chesa-swiss.com. Brunch every Sun 11am-3pm

The deal: B1,350 for the all-you-can-eat a la carte menu and B1,980 with free-flow wines (and Bloody Marys). All dishes are brought to your table, which is convenient, but a bit intimidating when you order oysters for the sixth time. The dishes are tapas-sized, so you can sample a lot more things without getting full.
The selection: You have nearly 30 dishes to choose from, many of which rotate (check their website for the current menu). It goes from Swiss dishes you won’t find elsewhere, like the capuns dumpling, to brunch favorites like Sydney rock oysters, depending on the season and the chef’s whim. Our fave though is the raclette, if you can handle copious amounts of molten cheese on top of potatoes.
The vibe: Located in a standalone house at the end of a quiet, leafy alley, Chesa isn’t particularly fancy but it is homey, rustic and warm, with the chef and manager making regular appearances.
Who is it for: Apart from the obvious draw for raclette lovers (an addiction that only all-you-can-eat can satisfy), Chesa is cheaper and more intimate than the behemoth hotel buffets.

China House

Mandarin Oriental, 48 Oriental Ave., 02-659-9000. www.mandarinoriental.com/bangkok Brunch every Sun 11:30am-2:30pm
The deal: B1,154 or B1,625 with free-flow wine. The selection includes a small buffet and an all-you-can-eat a la carte menu.
The selection: The food here is, you guessed it, Chinese, making for a welcome break for the usual global-orientated buffets. And thanks to the a la carte menu, many dishes are prepared a la minute and served at your table. Choose from some 40 elaborate recipes ranging from steamed scallop and minced shrimp dumplings wrapped in spinach wheat dough to Teochew-style steamed crystal dumplings with peanuts. Mains are equally ambitious, with dishes like soy glazed snowfish fillet served with salad and minced duck in shacha paste wrapped in salted egg and dough. Our faves: suckling pig, hot and sour soup with fresh lobster in Szechuan style, moo dang (honey glazed pork slices) and tung po steamed pork belly—totally scrumptious.
The vibe: Intimate, sexy and luxurious, this affordable brunch comes pretty close to a fine dining experience thanks to the tiny aquamarine bar, the deep red and black lacquers and shelves of Mariage Frères teas. Expect expats and more mature couples.
Who is it for: Those who are ready to trade in the variety and casual vibe of a big buffet brunch for some Shanghai chic.

Napa on 26

2/F, Nihonmachi, 115 Sukhumvit Soi 26. 02-258-2622. www.napaon26.com. Brunch every Sun 11:30am-2pm
The deal: B950 or B1,500 with free-flow wines or B2,500 with a premium wine selection. After an all-you-can-eat buffet of appetizers, you can then have the soup of the day, followed by as many a la carte dishes as you’d like. You then return to the buffet for cheese and dessert.
The selection: The buffet is quite small. You’ve got cold cuts on one end of the bar, seafood (very fresh rock lobster, shrimp and scallops) at the other end, and salad in the middle. A soup and a selection of eight mains are then served at your table—that’s where Napa shines. These range from a light pan-seared sea bass on capsicum and coriander sauce to the comforting braised lamb shank with mushrooms and mashed potatoes. Portions are a tad smaller than usual but we were full after two orders, although we’re sure some could manage more. More importantly, this is very well-executed a-la-minute cooking, not stuff sitting in trays under heating lamps. Then it’s back to the buffet for cheese (a stellar selection of pungent French ones on our last visit), and desserts, such as the excellent creme brulee.
The vibe: The space is really gorgeous, you’re served at your table, the stemware and cutlery are top-notch—a very refined atmosphere.
Who is it for: Napa tends to attract either groups planning on maxing out on the free-flow, or savvy couples who realize that this is a sit-down brunch experience that’s pretty close to a fine-dining one—although it’s also the cheapest one in our roundup.

The Seafood Bar

41/2 Somerset Lake Point, Sukhumvit Soi 16, 02-663-8863. www.theseafoodbar.info. Brunch every Sun noon-2:30pm
The deal: B1,500 for all you-can-eat a la carte and one free glass of prosecco. All dishes are brought to your table.
The selection: They’ll start you off with a seafood platter with oysters, clams, wild tiger prawns and Alaskan sea scallops depending on what’s fresh. Appetizers include an incredibly fragrant lobster bisque and the light, crispy mixed salad with bay shrimp. As for the mains, the Thai-influenced paella is to die for, while you can expect perfectly cooked fish in every single dish. If you’re planning on just stuffing yourself with oysters, you can order extra trays. Note that the restaurant belongs to a major seafood importer, so products here tend to be a notch above what you’d find at buffet spreads across town.
The vibe: With its grey and blue color tones, the décor feels pretty neutral. But the staff, and particularly the owner, are a warm and jovial bunch. Guests include affluent Thais and the occasional expat.
Who is it for: For those of you who usually just head to the seafood buffet at a brunch, this is a more civilized option—and one which offers better produce, too. Note, you must make a reservation or you’ll only be allowed to order a la carte.

Tables

2/F, Grand Hyatt Erawan, 494 Ploenchit Rd., 02-254-1234. BTS Chit Lom. www.bangkok.grand.hyatt.com. Brunch every Sun noon-2:30pm
The deal: B1,600 with free-flow soft drinks or B1,980 with free-flow wines.
The selection: Even though it’s a hotel Sunday brunch, the concept here is all about chefs sauntering over to your table to put some final touches to your beef Bourguignon, risotto with black truffles or stir-fried scallops with garlic. Key ingredients stay on but recipes rotate, so that means lobster thermidor one week and a lobster salad the next. There is a buffet, with a serious seafood station (with Fine de Claire oysters and Norwegian salmon), cold cuts and small portion dishes of duck liver terrine with fig and seared tuna with potato salad. Desserts have their own room, so that there’s a slight Charlie and the Chocolate Factory effect when you step into this fantasy world of towering macarons and chocolate. Don’t miss the cherry jubilee with kirsch and vanilla ice cream.
The vibe: Tables has this darker, Southern European meets gentlemen’s club vibe that doesn’t exactly feel like a fresh Sunday morning—but it’s definitely elegant. Stained mirrors, lots of mahogany-colored wood, oversized furniture and plenty of space make for an atmosphere that’s miles from the boisterous canteen-style brunches at most affordable hotel buffets.
Who is it for: Hi-sos, of course.

Bargain Buffets

Want a classic spread? Here are four hotel options under B1,500

Atelier (Grand Millennium)

Grand Millennium, 30 Sukhumvit 21 (Asoke) Road, 02-204-4161. Brunch Sun noon-3pm
The deal: B1,400 for the buffet and free-flow booze including sparkling wine. Come as a group of four and only pay for two.
The selection: The buffet is pretty standard with the usual mix of seafood, Thai, Chinese, Italian and Indian dishes. However, they have good live stations and the Spanish options from Tapas Y Vino restaurant are a nice touch.
The vibe: There’s an imposing bridge as you enter and plenty of light from all the windows. The prices and a sizeable kids corner mean it’s obvioulsy popular with families and big groups of expats looking to make the most of the affordable free flow.
Who is it for: Families who want the brunch experience for less and something to occupy their kids while they get tipsy.

Latest Recipe (Meriden Surwaong)

Le Meridien, 40/5 Surawong Rd., 02-232-8888. www.lemeridienbangkoksurawong.com. Brunch Sun noon-2:30pm
The deal: B1,200 for a buffet.
The selection: The buffet is pretty safe and simple. However, the seafood is very fresh and there’s a focus on live cooking stations. In the buffet line, there are dishes like tuna tartar, beef carpaccio, Chinese food and pizza. The best part? Their teppan ice cream where you can add your own toppings.
The vibe: It’s a very handsome space, thanks to a generous use of marble and soaring mezzanine. Plus, this buffet seems to be flying under the radar, offering a quieter atmosphere than most.
Who is it for: It’s the cheapest option, so it could be one for bargain hunters.

Vie Wine & Grill

11/F, VIE Hotel, 117/39-40 Phaya Thai Rd., 02-309-3939. BTS Ratchatewi. www.viehotelbangkok.com. Brunch Sun 11:30am-3pm
The deal: B900 or B1,300 with free flow.
The selection: Another standard hotel buffet spread with sashimi, seafood (including Alaskan king crab, oyster and shrimp eggs) and barbeque stations. The cooking station is quite popular for its pan-fried sirloin, John Dory fillet and foie gras. For dessert, there’s crepe suzette, cakes and chocolate fondue.
The vibe: Couches decorated with silk cushions and lights crafted from hundreds of silkworm cocoons add to the restaurant’s fashionable ambience.
Who is it for: Vie attracts fewer families than Centara, with young couples and group of friends, instead.

The World and Ginger (Centara Grand)

24/F, Centara Grand, 999/99 Rama Rd., 02-100-1234. www.centarahotelsresorts.com/bangkok.asp. Brunch Sun 11:30am-3pm
The deal: B1,401 or B1,701 with free-flow.
The selection: Roam through two restaurants—The World and Ginger—for the price of one. Ginger is more focused on Asian cuisine, from Chinese to teppanyaki and sashimi. At The World, explore classic Thai, Indian and Euro dishes: foie gras, roast meat and seafood.
The vibe: Both restaurants have sushi counters and cooking stations, making the place pretty lively. It’s not intimate, but the views almost make up for the lack of romance. Packed with families and younger kids, you may also come elbow to elbow with queue-cutting aunties. Our tip: avoid the brawling families at The World and book at Ginger instead; it’s more peaceful and closer to the yum suckling pig.

The Speakeasy

The 1920s-inspired bar located on the 24th and 25th floor of the boutique Hotel Muse in Lang Suan is like something out of prohibitian-era TV series Boardwalk Empire. With authentic cocktails, including takes on forgotten classics like Sazerac 1838 (B350) and Old Fashioned (B350), The Speakeasy rolls out a classy atmosphere to match the 180-degree urban view. Head there this week before the 25th floor closes for renovations from Jul 10-Aug 12; though the cute 24th floor balcony will remain open during this time.

Above Eleven

The latest rooftop bar and restaurant to emerge on the Sukhumvit Soi 11 party strip, Above Eleven serves Peruvian-Japanese fusion fare, known as Nikkei cuisine, along with a refreshing list of cocktails made from Peruvian Pisco. The bar provides a peaceful space in the heart of the city, decked out with wooden seats surrounded by fake grass and a large glass wall that allows you to, again, embrace the 180-degree view.

amBar

A good compromise. Girls can let their guys catch all the big match action at Beer Vault on the ground floor, while they head up to the 8th floor to kick back by the poolside at amBar. Enjoy a few tasty cocktails or beers with friends while soaking up the chill house tunes, before reuniting for a post-game cocktail (with special deals every day).

Blue Sky Bar

Now that Central Ladprao is once again a hot shopping destination, the Blue Sky Bar up on the 24th floor of the Centara Grand is well worth returning to for nice and affordable cocktails in their alfresco zone. This month, the bar also offers a buy-one-get-one-free deal on standard drinks during happy hours from 10-11pm.

Playground

OK, it’s not on a roof, but it is cute and new. Months ago we mentioned that as part of the Sofitel Silom’s rebranding as Pullman Bangkok Hotel G, the longstanding V9 would become Scarlett Wine Bar and Restaurant. And rounding out the new additions, along with gourmet burger joint 25 Degrees, is a lobby bar called Playground, which is nicely decked out in an industrial style. A long dark wooden table fills the first floor, with the mezzanine laid out with white sofas and old-fashioned bric-a-brac. It’s as good place a place as any to hide from the match action, a refreshing cocktail in hand.

The Amazing Spiderman 3D (USA): In this darker reboot of the Spiderman franchise, Peter Parker (Andrew Garfield) begins to discover the untold story of why his parents disappeared. The search leads him to Dr Curt Connors (Rhys Ifans) and his evil alter-ego, The Lizard. Jul 3.

Ice Age: Continental Drift (USA): With their continent set adrift, Manny (Ray Ramano), Diego (Denis Leary) and Sid (John Leguizamo) set out on a mission to reunite with their families, using an iceberg as a ship. Produced by Blue Sky Studio (Robots, Rio). Jul 12.

What To Expect When You’re Expecting (USA): Inspired by the best-selling pregnancy guide written by Heidi Murkoff and Sharon Mazel, this movie has us follow five interrelated couples who are coming to terms with the realities of impending parenthood; starring Jenifer Lopez, Cameron Diaz, Elizabeth Banks and Chace Crawford. Jun 28.

The Dark Knight Rises (USA): Batman (Christian Bale) rises yet again to fight new terrorist leader Bane (Tom Hardy) in an attempt to prove himself and to save his beloved city of Gotham. Jul 19.

Step Up Revolution (USA): The fourth edition of the dance series; Emily (Kathryn McCormick of So You Think You Can Dance fame) travels to Miami to realize her dream of becoming a professional dancer where she meets and falls in love with Sean (Ryan Guzman), the leader of a dance crew whose neighborhood is threatened by Emily’s father’s development plans.

The Expendables 2 (USA): The band of aging action stars led by Sylvester Stallone is back. After one of their men is murdered, the Expendables travel behind enemy lines where they are greeted by unexpected threats to their quest for revenge. Aug 16.

1994

Proud. Four-piece rock band influenced by the likes of The Cure, U2 and The Police.

Crub. Britpop-inspired act featuring one of the founders of Smallroom Records, Rungroj Uptampotiwat, and DJ Suharit Siamwala. Influenced by UK acts like The Smiths, Pink Floyd and The Stone Roses.

Bakery Music, regarded by some as Thailand’s first indie record label, launches with their debut release, alt-rock act Moderndog’s self-titled album. The company eventually abandoned its indie roots for more mainstream success, but it did inspire the creation of more indie labels like Dojo City with bands such as Triump Kingdom and Project H.

1995

Following the death of Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain, the Seattle sound finally takes a foothold in Bangkok as Bakery Music unveils “queen of grunge” Ornaree Chularatana and her debut album Natural High.

Joey Boy releases his first self-titled album which introduces hip hop culture to Bangkok. The album has since sold over a million copies nationwide.

Bakery Music founder Zomkiat AriyaChaipani breathes a little electronic pop into the scene with his album Zequence. It includes the hit “Tang Ork,” which also marks the debut of another rising soul and funk artist, Yokee Playboy.

1997

No one can match the success of rock n’ roll act Loso whose debut album Losociety is littered with hits like “I Wanna Love You.” Frontman Sek later became the first Thai artist invited to perform at the UK’s Glastonbury Festival in 2005.

1998

Alt-metal band Sillyfools, comprising Toe (vocals), Ton (guitar), Toey (drums) and Rang (bass), build on the success of their first EP, released on Bakery Music in 1995, joining Grammy to launch their first full-length album, I.Q. After this album, Toey quits the band to be replaced by Tor, and later founds Siam Pai Rock Records.

With The Verve’s Urban Hymns dominating the UK charts in the early part of the year, Siam Secret Service roll out “Kae Nun,” a Britpop-inspired indie anthem that proves extremely popular with local listeners. The band started off as Arai Jah led by Tul Waitoonkiat. When he leaves to study abroad, the rest of the band enlist a new vocalist, Krish, and change their name. Tul returns three years later and they release a solitary album, The Downtown Symphony, under their old moniker.

1999

End of an Era. GT Magazine (Generation Terrorist), run by DJ Seed Norasate Mudkong, was the only local magazine to cover alternative music from around the world from 1994-1999.

2000

American hip hop-inspired Thaitanium release their debut album AA along with the AA Crew, a special collaboration with Joey Boy.

Fat Radio launches, becoming the only music station to play and support Bangkok’s indie music scene.

Around the same time, groundbreaking indie website coolvoice.com arrives on the scene. Among other initiatives, it’s responsible for the Limousine series of compilation albums, first launched in 2002 by founder Amonpong Tavillarp. The records spark Bangkokians’ growing interest in electronic pop by the likes of Funky Wah Wah, Kinappers, Casinotone and The Peach Band.

A Day Magazine emerges, stepping into the considerable void left by GT Magazine.

Smallroom Records is founded by members of Crub and Proud. Their first release, the Smallroom 001 compilation, introduces cutting-edge indie acts like Stylish Nonsense, Moor and Greasy Café. Pop-rockers 4-Tao-Ter become the first artist to release a full-length album, The Love Boat, on the label, followed by Death of a Salesman.

2001

Pop group Armchair release their first album, Pastel Mood, with a more bossanova-tinged sound than what they later become known for.

Former frontman of Crub, Ooh Wasit Mookdavijit, joins with his friends to form Day Tripper.

American country-inspired Sib-Lor, led by Hugo Chulachak Chakrabongse, make a splash with their debut self-titled album.

2002

Music Bug, under the umbrella of GMM Grammy, give birth to alt-rock heavyweights Bodyslam. The band are later recognized as Most Popular Thai Band at the MTV Asia Awards in 2006 and Best Rock Band at the following year’s Season Awards.

Smooth rockers Flure join the Bakery Music roster, arriving on the scene with their first hit, “Rueng Deaw.”

2003

Two members of Araijah, Tul and Pump, form a new band, Apartmentkhunpa, which blends blues, funk and hard rock on their debut album, Bangkok Love Story.

The 2003 edition of A Day Magazine’s series of compilation albums, where all songs are called “A Day,” first launched in 2001, features artists like Bodyslam, Buahima and Monotone Group. The free compilation will only last four volumes in all, finishing in 2005.

Scrubb feature on A Day Album One (another compilation from the magazine that is on sale, not attached free) with their single “Rong Lean,” which they follow up by releasing their debut album …SSS… 2004

2004

While the indie music scene is ruled by pop outfits like Friday I’m In Love and Two Day Ago Kids from 2004-2005, this year sees the return of a more alternative sound, exemplified by Smallroom Records’ naughty four-piece Slur.