Guru By Bangkok Post's pick of the most exciting products, activities, art exhibitions, shows, food and hotel deals.
STUFF
One Piece capsule collection / Lush
Smell the adventure with Lush's latest capsule collection, a collab with One Piece, offering a new line of bath bombs shaped like Devil Fruits. While these bath bombs won't confer any superpowers like in the series, they can certainly enhance the sensory experience, transforming your ordinary bath into a fragrant and colourful soak. Creating purple and black swirlings when chucked into your bathtub, the Gum-Gum Fruit eaten by Straw Hat Luffy exudes a fruity and lively fragrance of blackcurrant and davana oil. Just like his fiery signature fire punch, Portgas D. Ace's Flame-Flame Fruit bath bomb unleashes a hot orange colour with a popping candy-like crackle alongside a warm scent of fenugreek and mandarin orange. Shop at th.lush.com
Toy Story collection / Ravipa
Following the first drop of Mickey and Friends, Ravipa reveals another collection with Disney to mark the world-renewed animation studio's 100th anniversary. Expect to see characters from Pixar's side, including Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Lotso and Little Green Men, coming alive as a charm for the Thai-made jewellery brand's woven bracelet. Visit ravipa.com.
Classic Grocery Bag / Bottega Veneta
While some designer brands may scream for attention with flashy logomania and ostentatious designs, Bottega Veneta conveys its message of quiet luxury through its design. Recently, the Italian fashion house is adding to the craze with its new unassuming handbag that looks like a near copy of the standard brown paper grocery carrier. Yet, the main difference is the crafting material, which Bottega Veneta’s version appears in 100% calfskin leather. In addition to its understated design, the bag has subtle details that give it a paper-like appearance. Go to bottegaveneta.com.
New grey dial / Montblanc 1858 Iced Sea Collection
The Montblanc 1858 Iced Sea Automatic Date is back with a new colour. This new grey glacier pattern dial was inspired by the ice of one of the Mont-Blanc mountain’s largest glaciers — the Mer de Glace. In certain light, the glacial ice appears grey as it reveals the mineral deposits that have been captured in its structure for millennia. This new Iced Sea edition comes in a 41mm stainless steel case with a caseback featuring a 3D engraving of an iceberg and a black scuba diver exploring the glacial waters below. The collection includes interchangeable stainless steel bracelets, which are also adjustable on the wrist. Visit montblanc.com.
Recycled collection / Ikea
The Blåvingad collection at Ikea is inspired by children’s interest to spark play and curiosity about the world under the sea, from tots to tweens. The collection is filled with rPET (Recycled PET) and Ocean-bound Plastic (OBP), raising awareness of marine debris among children while encouraging them to learn and take part in reducing the volume of litter. The collection comprises a variety of toys, dolls, textiles, and home furnishings for children with favourite marine animals featured, including a turtle, dolphin, whale, octopus and many more. These beloved creatures are produced with rPET, a material made from recycled plastic bottles that undergoes the process of cleaning to remove contaminants, color separation, shredding and melting down before reforming it into new materials to produce containers and other packaging. OBP is another material used in the collection; it is found within 50km from shores where waste management is inefficient and is estimated to generate 80% of plastic marine litter. The collection is essential puzzle pieces that support children’s first steps in learning about marine debris because we believe that their small steps are important for the beginning of a big change in the future. Explore the cuteness of our marine friends from the Blåvingad collection At Ikea Bangna, Ikea Bang Yai, Ikea Phuket and Ikea.co.th.
JOIN
ARW: Arcadia Rooftop Wrestling / Arcadia Barcade / May 6
Growing up as a 90s kid, heroes didn't wear capes but fluorescent spandex and high boots. Get ready to rumble like it's the 1980s and 90s all over again at Phra Khanong's Arcadia Barcade, which hosts its first-ever wrestling showdown on the rooftop this Saturday. Get ready to witness the fury of eight professional fighters as they go head to head in three epic matches that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Tickets are priced at B300 at tinyurl.com/arcadiabkk, so be sure to get there early to secure your spot ringside. For more information, visit fb.com/arcadiabkk.
Paint & Sip Workshop / House 38 Cat and Home Studio Bar / May 7
Need a place to bring your creative ideas to life? Check out the "Paint & Sip" workshop at Phra Khanong's House 38 Cat and Home Studio Bar, which offers a free-flow wine to keep your creative juice running. Get inspired and make new friends while painting the night away for B2,500. The theme of the art class is an 'impressionist landscape'. For reservations, contact Line@zeroprojectspace.
Fish Taxidermy Workshop of Display / Natural History Museum / May 10-12
What’s a better way to say goodbye to your dead fishy friends than flushing them down the toilet? Book a seat at the fish taxidermy workshop hosted by Natural History Museum. For B3,600 per person, the three-day course teaches you how to immortalise your dear departed pets or your rewards from your fishing trip by having them stuffed and mounted for display. Save your spot via nsm.or.th/nsm/th/node/44893.
Three-night pop-up / Jack Bain’s Bar x Kumiko / May 10-12
The recently reopened Jack Bain’s Bar at 37 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok, will partner with one of the World’s 50 Best Bars list 2022, Kumiko and its award-winning bartender Julia Momosé for a three-night pop-up from May 11-13, from 6-11pm. The pop-up’s curated cocktails from the world's No.25 will be served for one year after the event ends. “I look forward to see how the Japanese sensibilities of Kumiko meld with local ingredients and classic cocktails.” said Julia Momose. The pop-up also takes place ahead of Momosé’s book “The Way Of The Cocktail”, which will include a personal book signing. Simple and sophisticated cocktails are a trademark at Kumiko. Call 02-079-7000 or Line:@137pillarshotels.
Multimedia water feature / River Park, Iconsiam / Until May 7
The “Vijitr 5 Regions”, organised by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports by Tourism Authority of Thailand, will be held at River Park, Iconsiam to promote meaningful travel experiences and sustainable tourism in Thailand. Iconsiam will participate in the Central Region, with spectacular light and sound show, reflecting the beliefs of Thais on the moonlight and bathing in the moonlight for positive energy and prosperity. The”Iconic Multimedia Water Feature” combines water, light, colour, sound and multimedia, which is the longest in Southeast Asia. The show is displayed in four rounds daily: 8pm, 9pm and 10pm. The Snap and Share activity gives everyone a chance to win an e-voucher worth more than B500,000 and also auspicious talisman stickers. Call 1338 or visit iconsiam.com.
Salón Social / BKK Social Club Launches / May 11
BKK Social Club at the Four Seasons At Chao Phraya River Bangkok, will launch a "Salón Social" guest bartender programme, which will bring some of the world's most renowned mixologists to Bangkok. The first visiting bartender will be Tato Giovannoni, founder of the No.1 bar in Argentina and No.18 on the World's 50 Best Bars list, Florería Atlántico, and creator of Príncipe de los Apóstoles gin. Giovannoni will be showcasing his signature cocktails on May 11 from 7-11pm. The Salón Social programme is designed to provide an immersive and social experience, showcasing some of the best cocktails from around the world, while giving guests an opportunity to meet the visiting bartenders. Guests will also have a chance to taste a selection of Giovannoni’s signature cocktails along with Argentinian bites from Florería Atlántico. Ahead of his guest shift, Giovannoni's visit will include an industry masterclass in the afternoon, where he will share his expertise and insights with attendees. Follow @BKKSocialClub on Instagram.
STAY
A Luxury Escape by JW / JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa / Until Oct 31
Enjoy "A Luxury Escape by JW" at JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa, which offers a full-board package to top off your tropical getaway in Phang-nga's beach town. By booking a minimum of three nights' stay, you can experience ultimate relaxation with a range of perks that will have you feeling pampered and indulged. Start your day off right with a delicious daily breakfast and keep your stomach happy with a lunch set at Sala, the Beach Bar or Waterfront. Tempt your taste buds with a delectable three-course dinner, choosing from Italian cuisine at Olive, Thai dishes at Ta-Krai or Japanese specialities at Sakura. But the indulgence doesn't stop there. During your stay, you'll also be treated to two 45-minute spa treatments, where you can choose from a selection of Thai, aromatic, foot or Indian head massages. Book at bit.ly/3ANrtgb.
May Vacay / Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok / Until May 7
It's your last chance to snatch the monthly special "May Vacay" promotion at Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, with only two days left to book. By booking a minimum of three nights' stay, guests can save up to 15% of the room rate and enjoy all the luxurious indulgences the hotel has on offer. The rate starts at B7,695 per night, with privileges including daily breakfast and a "Forgot It? We Got It!" amenity. Guests are also entitled to Kimpton Hallmark, which includes daily breakfast and Kimpton Hallmarks, which include coffee-to-go from 6.30-9.30am at the lobby and a free-flow signature drink at Pool.bar from 5-6pm. Your good boys or girls are welcome to join your stay, which requires a seven-day notice in advance. Sign up to the hotel’s IHG One Rewards and you’ll even receive more benefits. Visit kimptonmaalaibangkok.com.
W Got You Covered / W Koh Samui / Until Nov 30
W Koh Samui has you covered with a luxurious escape that will make your seaside vacation unforgettable. With "W Got You Covered", guests can book a saving room rate starting at B21,800 per night, including daily breakfast, plus a series of privileges when booking your stay for a minimum of three nights. For your Insta feed, order an in-villa "Float Me Up" set, and shake things up with a complimentary DIY cocktail set. And when it's time to truly unwind, head to Away Spa for a 60-minute relaxation massage for two persons. Go to bit.ly/3HuLhIY.
Countryside retreat / Marasca Hotels & Resorts, Khao Yai
Marasca Khao Yai from Narai Hotel Group, offers a charming take on weekend getaways through scenic stays that inspire travellers to rest and play, with an inviting design approach that embraces nature and celebrates the great outdoors. Like its name, derived from the marasca cherry, Marasca Khao Yai offers glamper tents with outdoor living room and private glamping facilities, and villas, if glampings isn’t your thing. Each tent unit overlooks a mountain range and is equipped with a telescope, a firepit and a barbecue grill. The Home Haven Pool Villa is a sprawling 300m2 three-bedroom villa with indoor, outdoor living spaces and a private plunge pool. The villa is pet-friendly. The larger Glamper Suites elevate with a private hot tub. The only dining option on the resort is Tree Top tea house & farmer’s cafe, where dines can enjoy cosmic cocktails, tea mocktails and bites. Every day, sunset brings the hotel’s Cherry Cart Golden Hour, where complimentary ice cream is a sweet accompaniment to the gold-tinted views. Guests can participate farm-to-table cooking classes at Homegrown, a weekend outdoor Farmer’s Barbecue, and a recycling programme that includes composting. Email hello.khaoyai@marasca.live or visit marasca.live.
Summer style / The Chedi
Summertime offerings across The Chedi properties are designed to awaken the senses with carefully curated packages and bespoke offers, flexible and well-suited for immersive weekend getaways and rejuvenating summer sojourns. At The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah, UAE, get 20% off on selected spa treatments with a minimum of a two-night stay in a heritage room. The offer comes with hotel credit worth AED 200 (approx B2,000), redeemable for F&B options every night and 24-hour check-in and check-out flexibility. The hotel also has a Family Retreat offer that lets guests book one room and receive the second at 20% off the best available rate. Additionally, kids, below the age of 12, dine for free during their stay. Each summer offer is valid until Sept 30. Call +971-6-502-5555 or email reservations@chedialbaitsharjah.com. Until Aug 20, The Chedi Muscat, Oman, has packages starting from OMR 170 per night (B15,000) and comes with perks such as a signature welcome drink upon arrival and daily breakfast. The Chedi Andermatt, Switzerland, has a “Stay 4 Pay 3” package, which allows guests to book a room or suite for a minimum of three nights and earn a complimentary fourth-night stay. The “Whole-In-One” package for golf enthusiasts throughout the summer, starts from CHF 650 (B24,700) per person and includes 20% off when booking a minimum of three nights, two green fees per person at the Andermatt Swiss Alps Golf Course (18-hole) and a four-course dinner at The Restaurant. Call +41-41-888-74 or email reservations@chediandermatt.com.
EAT
British tea party / 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok / May 6
In celebration of the coronation of King Charles III on May 6, 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok has joined with Penny Jirayuwatana aka Penny The Chef to curate a British Tea Party Afternoon Tea on the weekends and public holidays from 12.30-5pm throughout May. The coronation is a formal ceremony marking the accession of a monarch to the throne, where they are officially crowned. Penny is famous for her scones and creative pastries, and had the privilege of cooking for King Charles at Windsor Palace.
The British Tea Party is a delectable array of both sweet and savoury treats. On the savoury side, the Coronation quiche is a fitting addition to a coronation celebration, with its regal name, and the Prawn cocktail open sandwich is a savoury appetiser that's perfect for any occasion. And no British afternoon tea is complete without the traditional sandwich and croissant fillings of egg and cress, ham and cheese, and tuna and cucumber. The luscious Strawberry and elderflower tart, adorned with fresh strawberries and infused with the delicate essence of elderflower, is a delectable and elegant dessert. Similarly, the Victoria cake with rhubarb and strawberry jam is a timeless item, with a twist of tangy rhubarb adding a delightful flavour. The Battenberg cake, with its distinctive pink and yellow squares, is a true British classic that's both beautiful and delicious. Served with Chef Penny’s signature scones, lemon curd, and strawberry jam, it's the ideal complement with a selection of sustainable Monsoon teas. Visit bit.ly/3oYn5bE.
Available at Bangkok Trading Post Bistro & Bar on May 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 25 and 27-28. The afternoon tea is priced at B1,100 nett per person and B1,425 net per person with a glass of sparkling wine. Call 02-079-7000 or Line: @137pillarshotels.
Pizza-Pasta Special / Ventisi, Centara Grand at CentralWorld / Mondays and Tuesdays
Italian restaurant at Centara Grand at CentralWorld, Ventisi has launched a special pizza and pasta promotion available every Monday and Tuesday night. For B590++ per person, diners can enjoy a delicious pizza and pasta combo accompanied by a beverage and a dessert. The pasta menu features choices such as Spaghetti vongole, Mozzarella ravioli with tomato sauce and Italian basil, Tagliolini with white truffle sauce, Rustic spaghetti with sausage ragu and truffle, and Pappardelle with Wagyu beef cheeks. The mouthwatering pizza selection includes a choice of Hawaiian, Calabria (pepperoni), Margherita, Boscaiola (ham and mushroom) and Frutti di Mare. Diners can opt for a pint of draught Italian Peroni beer or a glass of exquisite Italian sparkling, white, or red wines to complement the meal. A house-made tiramisu dessert in four enticing flavours rounds out the experience. Cal 02-100-6255 or email diningcgcw@chr.co.th.
Culinary offering / Holiday Inn & Suites Siracha Laemchabang / Until May 31
Level 8 Kitchen & Bar at the Holiday Inn & Suites Siracha Laemchabang is an all-day dining restaurant that serves Thai and international food. For the month, the restaurant is highlighting a Khao tom buffet from Sunday to Thursday and a seafood and international food buffet from Friday to Saturday. Visit more offers via bit.ly/3ZPP4HA. Call 033-251-699, Line: lin.ee/DL3H3Bx, email dmksr.rsvn@ihg.com or visit holidayinn.com/siracha.
Afternoon Tea / Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River / Until May 31
The Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River has launched an afternoon tea exclusively for the duration of the Bill Bensley and “The Faroese Chronicle” exhibition. This culinary experience is a tribute to the adventures of Bensley and the Faroese Knitting Club, taking guests on a journey to each country they have visited. The afternoon tea is available daily from 2-5pm at The Lounge until May 31. Guests will be transported to different parts of the world, starting with the Faroe Islands, where the journey of Bensley and the Faroese Knitting Club began. From there, guests will travel to Petra in Jordan, Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic, Mexico, Mongolia, Bali in Indonesia, Jeju Island in South Korea, Palermo in Italy and The French Congo. Executive pastry chef Andrea Bonaffini and Patiwarata Chutiwat, chef de cuisine at The Lounge, have created an artfully designed afternoon tea, which celebrating the exhibition. The tea is priced at B1,500++ per person. Call 02-032-0885. Meanwhile, “The Faroese Chronicle” exhibition comprising 38 artworks will run until July 31. As part of the exhibition, Bensley will be hosting a special “Behind The Art” talk at The Library at The Lounge at Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok, followed by a painting master class on May 20. Additional details and timing will be announced on @FSBangkok’s Instagram in the coming weeks.
Saturday brunch / Waldorf Astoria Bangkok / May 6, June 10, July 1, Aug 12, Sept 2, Oct 7, Nov 4, Dec 2
A lavish Saturday brunch will begin on May 6 and will take place on a monthly basis on a pre-announced date at The Brasserie, Waldorf Astoria Bangkok, from 11.30am-3pm. The brunch will include the hotel’s iconic Eggs Benedict, as well as seafood on an ice platter, foie gras terrine, sushi and sashimi. The carving station will present an impressive roast of the day with all the trimmings. Diners may also select a generous main course inspired by classic French bistro fare such as Wagyu beef cheek bourguignon; Duck confit served with taro mash and balsamic cream; Grilled Maine lobster; poached salmon roll; or Grilled Hokkaido scallop. Signature Asian dishes such as Peking duck, Suckling pig and Barbecue pork are also part of the buffet. The extravagant dessert station will come with a chocolate fountain and other delightful treats. The Brasserie’s Saturday Brunch is priced at B2,900++ per adult (food only); B3,300++ per adult with free-flow soft drinks; B4,700++ per adult with free-flow wine; and B1,900++ per child, between the ages of six and 12. Call 02-846-8888 or email bkkwa.fb@waldorfastoria.com.
White asparagus / Akira Back Bangkok, Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park / Until May 31
Akira Back Bangkok at the Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park will be celebrating the arrival of the white asparagus season all month. Diners can choose to order Grilled white asparagus (B680++), cooked simply to showcase the sweetness of this premium product, and complemented with black garlic butter, Parmesan and shio gonbu, or a sublime seafood plate of Pan-seared halibut (B790++), accompanied white asparagus and a delicate soya beurre blanc. Meat lovers can indulge in two mouth-watering dishes: Wagyu short rib (B1,390++), which is slow-cooked for 48 hrs until tender and paired with white asparagus, root vegetables and beef jus, or Japanese A5 Wagyu (B4,100++) a succulent steak served with white asparagus and truffle beef jus. The white asparagus promotion will be available for dinner until May 31. Call 02-059-5999 email restaurant-reservations.bkkqp@marriotthotels.com or visit sevn.ly/xDk3FAKo.
Four-hand dinner / Signature Bangkok / May 10-12
Chefs Thierry Drapeau of Michelin-starred Signature Bangkok will host Noah Sandoval of two Michelin-starred Oriole in a pop-up experience like no other. Signature Bangkok serves modern French and “floral cuisine” with the use of delicate flowers, herbs and seasonal ingredients. Sandoval will bring a touch of his contemporary American restaurant in Chicago’s trendy West Loop neighbourhood to Bangkok for the first time. The six-course dinner, with only 30 seatings each day, comes with a mini wine pairing and is priced at B7,000++. Early bird bookings before April 30, get a 15% discount. Call 02-309-3939 or visit signaturebangkok.com.
Desserts and drinks / Behind The Curtain x Igniv / May 9-10
Indulge in sensory delights at Behind The Curtain, on 30, Attha Kawi 1 on May 9-10. Bringing together the talents of Igniv Bangkok’s pastry chef Arne Riehn and Mia’s pastry chef Michelle Goh, the two-night sweet retreat will create a menu of innovative desserts. Behind The Curtain’s bar manager Marc Perez and Igniv mixologist Khun Yu will stir up cocktails that will complement the sweet treats. The five desserts and five cocktails (mocktails available) omakase is priced at B3,200++ per person and there are two seatings available, 6pm and 9pm. Advanced booking is required. Call 098-862-9659, email reservation@miarestaurantbkk.com or visit miarestaurantbkk.com.
Guest shifts / Peppina Sukhumvit 33, Err Thonglor / May 7-8
Don’t miss a chance to enjoy the unique “ba kuay karr” cooking of The Food Trust Chiang Mai on May 7 at Peppina Sukhumvit 33 and May 7-8 at Err Thonglor from 6-10pm. The collab sees chefs Duangporn “Bo” Songvisava and Dylan Jones of the former Bo.lan pair Thai flavours with chef Paolo Vitaletti’s traditional Neapolitan pizza bases, showcasing pizzas such as “The Hung Lae” topped with braised pork hock, pickled garlic, Mae Tha peanuts, pork crackling, green chilli relish or “The Khao Soi” topped with khao soi, braised “Ku” beef, pickled mustard greens, shallots, crispy noodles and smoked cheese. Pasta lovers can enjoy dishes including The Food Trust Chiang Mai’s top-selling “Pla-ra & Makwhaen” with homemade pasta or the “Neam & Clam”, which pairs cured pork with fresh clams, gnocchetti pasta and chilli. Beef Lovers will enjoy the tantalising flavour combinations of the “Beef carpaccio larp dip”, whilst the much-loved Peppina asparagus salad has been gently tweaked with the use of pla-ra in place of colatura. The Thai flavours aren’t restricted to the food menu and cocktails on offer will include a boozy take on Cha yen and signature TFT CNX cocktails. Email Nikki@peppina.asia.
Sensorial art dinners / Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort / May 11-12
Chef Kevin Fawkes, executive chef at Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort, and celebrated Thai artist Oat Montien joint their creative minds to collaborate on “Courses Of The Moon”, a series of exclusive art-inspired dinners where each course celebrates the mystical and natural lushness of Samui through a multi-sensory “moon ritual”. Combining a four-course degustation menu, elevated cocktails, performance art, poetry, site-specific installations and life drawing sessions, the unique sensorial experience will take place on May 11-12 at Tree Tops, Koh Samui’s most exclusive fine dining restaurant perched high above the ground amid the lush canopy of a 120-year-old tree. The opening set, ashes of roots with Hua Hin sturgeon caviar cream, is followed by Surat Thani oysters cooked over tree bark and served with broken pomegranate, rye soil and pickled white tapioca. The main course is a decadent salt-baked blue lobster with white asparagus, butterfly pea and jasmine khao tom, and sea herbs. The climax of the night, the Floating Island dessert with black truffle, chocolate, and waves of jasmine and orange, will be served just as Oat starts his site-specific ritualistic life drawing performance under the darkening sky. The dinner is priced at B6,500++ per person, including special cocktails and a unique drawing from the artist for each guest. Visit anantara.com/en/lawana-koh-samui/restaurants.
WATCH
Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol 3 in cinemas
Directed by James Gunn.
Who's in it?
Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana and Dave Bautista.
What's it about?
Still reeling from the loss of Gamora, Peter Quill rallies his team to defend the universe and one of their own — a mission that could mean the end of the Guardians if not successful.
Why watch it?
Apart from Bradley Cooper saying he “cried pretty hard” when watching it, the movie closes the book on Marvel’s unlikeliest family.
