Guru By Bangkok Post's pick of the most exciting products, activities, food and travel to indulge in.
EAT
Champagne brunch / Uno Mas / April 7 and May 5
Every First Sunday of the month, enjoy a Champagne Brunch at Uno Mas, at the Centara Grand at CentralWorld, on April 7 and May 5. The monthly event is a celebration of the rich and diverse flavours of Spain and the Mediterranean, featuring a sumptuous selection of gourmet tapas, classic paellas, and an array of fresh seafood, all perfectly paired with the sparkling Champagne Pommery Brut Royal N.V. The menu offers a variety of tapas, premium imported meats and the freshest seafood on offer. Special highlights include a selection of oysters, snow crab, Maine lobster, and tiger prawns. There will also be Jamón Ibérico, classic paella, lobster sashimi, and A5 Kobe beef sashimi. Visit the hotel's website.
Afternoon tea / Sirivannavari Maison x Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok / Until April 30
Sirivannavari Maison has introduced the Maison des Fleurs Collection, a limited-edition series consists of elegant ceramic tableware crafted from Bone China. Graced with distinctive hand-drawn designs by creative director HRH Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya, the collection features a trio of dinner plates, a duo of mugs, as well as espresso shot and teacup. Additionally, the home fragrance products include scented candles encased in ceramic jars and aromatic diffusers in exquisite glass adorned with tassels, available in four scents crafted to bring an opulent ambiance to the home. To celebrate the collection, Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok is serving the “Maison des Fleurs' Special Afternoon Tea”. The exclusive experience is limited to only 20 sets each day and will be served until April 3. Visit the hotel’s website.
Anniversary celebrations / The St. Regis Bangkok / April 7
The St. Regis Bangkok marks another year of timeless luxury and will host a Signature Birthday Brunch at Viu, enhanced with a special food station from Igniv Bangkok and exclusive beverage stations at The St. Regis Bar on April 7. The Signature Birthday Brunch will take over the entire 12th floor to set a feast for the senses. While indulging in the buffet, guests will enjoy live violin performance, live music by DJ FunkTastic. Diners also have the opportunity to win the grand prize from a lucky draw, including a complimentary one-night stay in a Deluxe Room for two with breakfast, a Sunday brunch for two persons, an Epic dinner buffet and a spa treatment from Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie. Visit the hotel’s website.
Porkhestra buffet / Ventisi
Centara Grand at CentralWorld's Ventisi restaurant will host the “Porkhestra Buffet”, an all-you-can-eat dinner buffet, every Thursday. A celebration of pork, the buffet highlights the best of Italian and Thai pork dishes across various live cooking stations. Noteworthy dishes include Grilled pork neck with naam jim jaew, Pork gyros, Crispy pork knuckle, Italian pork meatballs, Porchetta, Casareccie with sausage and mushrooms, and many more. Beyond the pork extravaganza, the buffet also offers a diverse selection of seafood on ice, appetisers, salads, homemade bread, soups, and main courses of meat and fish. Additionally, guests can enjoy a variety of Thai and Italian classics, an assortment of cheeses, desserts, pastries, and delicious ice creams. Visit the hotel’s website.
Spring menu / Igniv Bangkok / Until May 31
Igniv Bangkok celebrates spring with a new menu featuring 20 handcrafted dishes in a sharing experience that beautifully combines European and Thai flavours till May 31. Each dish includes a classic dish blending tradition and modernity in presentation and preparation style, including Lamb–ramps–tomato, Pork cheek–consume–chorizo–horseradish, Zucchini–ratatouille–potato and Morels–ravioli–vin jaune. Towards the end of the multi-course gastronomic journey, guests enjoy a choice of house-made macarons, fruit jellies, chocolates and other delights from Igniv’s signature candy store to enjoy with coffee or tea, or to take home. Visit the restaurant’s website.
Seafood buffet / Innside By Meliá
Every Friday and Saturday night, Innside By Meliá serves a buffet underpinned by fresh and locally-sourced seafood. Grilled Ayutthaya river prawns, and fresh seafood on ice such as oysters, rock lobsters, clams and crabs are among highlights at the “Weekend Seafood Catch” at all-day dining restaurant, The Kites Eatery. The seafood is accompanied by an array of condiments including the recommended chilli sauce. Other buffet options include sashimi, scallops, hot dishes such as crab curry, salads, vegetables and desserts. Visit the hotel’s website.
Seasonal dim sum / Shang Palace / Until April 30
Indulge in a culinary symphony with the seasonal dim sum selection, promising a journey of delightful flavours and textures. Available for a limited period, the selection includes Ikura dumplings, Swan dumplings, Shiitake mushroom buns and Durian pancake to conclude on a sweet note. Visit the hotel’s website.
Toothfish special / Pagoda Chinese Restaurant / From April 1 to May 31
Pagoda Chinese Restaurant at the Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park will showcase the Glacier 51 toothfish, sourced from the ice-cold waters of the Antarctic, Australia. Available throughout April and May, the promotion features a series of delectable dishes that showcase this highly prized fish. Also known as Patagonian toothfish or Chilean sea bass, Glacier 51 toothfish is famed for its snow-white flesh, flakey texture and clean, sweet flavour. The fish will be prepared in seven styles: Steamed with aged Hong Kong soy sauce, Steamed with Hunan fermented chili, Steamed with salted black beans, Wok-fried with XO sauce, Egg yolk and superior chicken sauce, Ginger, scallions and dried chili, or Boiled in a hot and sour soup with pickled cabbage and chili. Visit the hotel’s website.
New menu / Mei Jiang Restaurant
Chinese executive chef Ho King Yip unveils a new menu at Mei Jiang Restaurant at The Peninsula Bangkok. The menu showcases an elevated twist to traditional Cantonese dishes like Sichuan style quinoa snow fish fillet with turnip and Golden fish dumpling in pickled vegetable sauce. Other highlights include Double-boiled chrysanthemum soup with bamboo fungus, Braised South African whole abalone in abalone sauce, Steamed black crab claw, egg white, Chinese yellow wine, Fried mantis shrimp with chili salt and spicy garlic, Pan-fried grouper fillet with supreme sauce, Wok-fried Japanese a3 wagyu beef with dried chili, green asparagus, and cashew nuts in black pepper sauce and Minced wagyu beef with orzo pasta and XO sauce in a clay pot. Visit the hotel’s website.
Sake summer / Kinu By Takagi / April 15
Kinu by Takagi at the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok is celebrating spring with a 10-course dinner menu, augmented by French caviar and the venerable practice of sake pairing. New chef de Cuisine Hiroshi Shimada has created a multifaceted dining experience that pairs the subtle flavours of the seasonal dishes with sake, served at the ideal temperature to highlight its distinct profile. Chilled, the sake provides a crisp, invigorating aroma with a zestier taste. When warmed, it unfolds into a richer, velvety experience, enhanced by the comforting embrace of its alcoholic essence. This season, the menu features the essence of late winter and early spring in Japan. Dishes such as grilled yellowtail with radish, Kyoto carrots with mizore soup, grilled wagyu beef sirloin with Koji and red miso sauces, and Japanese rice adorned with grilled maitake mushrooms and caviar, are each thoughtfully paired with an exquisite sake selection. The innovative combination of French caviar with Japanese cuisine is Chef Kazuo Takagi's latest innovation, intensifying the umami and adding a novel complexity to the kaiseki tradition. Visit the hotel's website.
New restaurant / Kwann Restaurant
Kwann Restaurant, which opened on April 1 at Nysa Hotel, is bringing back the basics of Thai cooking under the consultancy of chefs Napol "Joe" Jantraget and Jirapat Sept from Nawa. Live fire, charcoal and smoking techniques take precedence at Kwann, which will be serving dishes like Crab beignets with a southern Thai curry sauce, Roasted Thai Wagyu beef tongue nam tok style salad, Red koji glazed duck breast with Kwann's hoisin sauce and Spicy grilled mushroom relish. Desserts will include Khanom mor gaeng basque cheesecake with smoked coconut ice cream. House-made fermentations, smoked cocktails, local sato beers and a Volcanic wine list are the beverages on offer. Visit the hotel’s website.
Songkran brunch / Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit / April 7, 14, 21, 28
The hotel will celebrate Songkran in style with four exclusive editions of its popular Sunday Jazzy Brunch. Hosted at Rossini’s and The Living Room on four consecutive Sundays, the brunch will journey on a trip to the four regions of Thailand — Central, North, Northeast and South. The tour starts on April 7 in the Central Region, with local favourites and a dedicated khao chae station. On April 14, the brunch goes to the North, while on April 21, it moves to the Northeast and on April 28 it goes South. Visit the hotel's website.
Songkran specials / Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai / April 12
Experience the epitome of Thai culinary excellence with the "Wine Paired Songkran Buffet Dinner" on April 12, where every dish is paired with Monsoon Valley wines. The dinner will be enhanced with traditional Thai music and Thai dance performances. On April 14 and April 28, enjoy "Sweet Sensation" at Khao, which focus on a diverse array of pastries. From April 16 to June 20, Khao by Four Seasons will serve an la carte menu showcasing dishes from Central Thailand. North by Four Seasons will showcase Thai Wagyu, hot off the grill, amidst the serene backdrop of lush rice fields, until June. Khao will also serve the "Tropical Bliss Afternoon Tea" with a luxurious array of tropical fruit-inspired treats, during this month. Visit the resort's website.
JOIN
Bespoke journey / Kempinski The Spa
Kempinski The Spa at the Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok is offering a bespoke journey beginning with a personalised consultation. The Siam Journey starts with a Thai herbal bath, followed by a scrub with Himalayan salt, coconut, Thai phanarai herbs or 24K gold exfoliation. Visit the hotel’s website.
Summer glow / Chi, The Spa / Until June 30
Welcome the summer with smooth and glowing skin through Chi’s special seasonal body exfoliation treatment. Gentle polishing helps remove impurities and toxins from the skin. Enjoy a 20% discount on any continuing body massage of 60 minutes or more. Visit the hotel’s website.
Sixth anniversary / Tropic City / April 6
To celebrate six years, Tropic City will host a party on April 6. The decks will see Djs such as FU, M豆me, Joe O and Park:Ing bringing their signature sounds to the mix for one night only. Joining them are Bangkok mainstays and nomad Djs by the likes of Chucheewa & Logistic Man, Tam Bryce, Arriagada and Mumsfilibaba. Manning the bar for the night will be regional talents and familiar Bangkok faces like Chanel Adams from Bamboo Bar, Fahbeer Sopajaree of Lost In Thaislation, Filippo Sanchi from Lennon’s, Gotji Dheeradon of the Sugarray Group and Jake Erder and Edgar Santillan from Honky Tonks Tavern in Hong Kong. Visit the bar's FB page.
Hua Hin Marathon / Wat Khao Krailart / May 12
Organised by the Preserve Hua Hin Group, the 4th edition of Hua Hin Marathon will be held on May 12 Wat Khao Krailart. Hua Hin Marathon is one of the biggest marathon events in Thailand and is dedicated to the cause of supporting local sustainability projects. The 2023 edition saw the participation of multi-Guinness World Record ultramarathon champion Sufiya Sufi and Thailand’s treasured triathlete Tulyatep Uawithya. Hua Hin Marathon also invites visually challenged and hearing-impaired runners to join the marathon. These runners will be assisted by volunteers who will run in tandem with them. Registration for the event is open until April 30. Approximately 3,500 runners of various levels are expected to join. The first male and female marathon winners will be awarded the Royal Trophy granted by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. The race starts and finishes at the said Buddhist temple with a view of early sunrise over Hua Hin Beach. Visit Hua Hin Marathon's FB page.
Canalside Songkran / Bangkok Water Festival 2024 / April 13-15
As you may already know, the Bangkok Water Festival happens at many riverside historic venues every Songkran. However, this year, Khlong Ong Ang, Saphan Han and Wat Bophit Phimuk will be added to the festivities. The canal in particular has become an attraction since its renovation in 2020, which won a United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) Asian Townscape Award. A canal-side alms-giving ceremony will be held on April 13 on top of other activities such as a kayaking tour, a biking tour and live music from student buskers which will take place throughout three days from April 13-15. Along the canal, there are many street art murals for you to snap photos with.
Ladies' night / El Santo / Wednesdays
Mexican restaurant El Santo by Soho Hospitality launches La Noche de Chicas, an electrifying Ladies Night that promises an unforgettable fiesta every Wednesday. The mid-week party kicks off with the first two drinks on the house. After that, enjoy crafted classic or curious cocktails at special prices. Mexican musicians keep the lively vibe up and keep you dancing throughout the night. Expect a fun and colourful vibe as, as its name suggests, El Santo is inspired by Mexico's lucha libre legend of the same name.
Grand opening / Ale House, Millennium Hilton Bangkok
Ale House, Millennium Hilton Bangkok's latest addition to its F&B offerings, proudly announces its grand opening. The modern ale pub promises a dynamic social space and vibrant sports bar against the scenic backdrop of the Chao Phraya River. Aim for an elevated sports bar experience, Ale House ensures guests get to enjoy mesmerising river views while nursing their choice of drinks which can be craft beers, beer cocktails, refreshing G&Ts, and low-calorie beer on tap. Within more than 35 choices, the pub highlights local craft beers like Khun Phaen Lychee Pale Ale and The Brewing Project Whale Pale Ale. Food-wise, chef Matthias Mittnacht has crafted standout creations like Thai-inspired Sai ua hot dog and Craft beer-infused beef cheek pie.
TRAVEL
Songkran buffet / Holiday Inn Bangkok / April 12-21
This Thai New Year, Holiday Inn Bangkok has dishes and drinks inspired by Songkran and served at Beer Republic and at Ginger and ConneXion from April 12-21. Highlights include “nam tok nua yang”, the grilled beef spicy salad with mint leaves, chilli, and lime, “kor gai thord”, a deep-fried chicken knuckle with chilli hot sauce, and “khor moo yang”, grilled pork neck with mint leaves. Sip on a signature creations, including cocktails such as Blue Siam and Peachkran or mocktails such as Thai Sense. Ginger has a Songkran buffet with a selection of traditional Thai recipes that includes baked whole seabass stuffed with aromatic herbs, braised pork belly with bean curd and egg, marinated pork liver with chilli, red curry with banana blossom, and a choice of som tum to welcome the New Year. Visit the hotel’s website.
Workcations and celebrations / Trisara
Trisara is capitalising on Phuket’s reputation as a hub for remote working courtesy of special long-stay rates on its signature residences. Its “Stay Longer, Save More” offers discounted rates with extra benefits for a minimum stay of four or seven nights. Additional benefits include daily breakfast, return airport transfer, complimentary use of non-motorised water sports equipment, complimentary daily outdoor activities as part of Trisara’s “Move In Nature” wellness programme and well-being credits per bedroom each night, redeemable for activities including massage and beauty therapies, personal training and yoga and meditation. Visit the resort’s website.
Songkran in Phuket / The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa, Phuket
The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa, Phuket is gearing up for guests to celebrate Thai New Year in style with a series of events that showcase Thai culture. The festivities will commence in the early morning of April 13 with an alms-giving ceremony and make merit with local Buddhist monks. A traditional long drum parade will start from the resort’s lobby to Prego by the Beach, the resort's seafront restaurant. The resort’s beach will then set the stage for a full day of vibrant activities, including a water pouring ceremony, a muay Thai dance show, sea boxing, kids’ games and more. For a fee, enjoy a Songkran BBQ buffet with a side of live music and Thai cultural performances. Then on April 15, embark on a culinary journey across the kingdom with a "4 Regions Thai Buffet" for dinner where Thai regional delicacies will be on offer. Throughout Songkran, from April 13-15, guests can visit the resort’s lobby to respectfully pour water over a statue of Buddha – an act of spiritual cleansing and renewal for the year ahead. Visit the resort's website.
Ghostbusters-themed attraction / Columbia Pictures Aquaverse / April 6
The world’s first "Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire" themed attraction is set to open on April 6 at Columbia Pictures Aquaverse in Pattaya to coincide with the film’s theatrical release in Thailand. Hop on Ghostbusters bumper cars to experience realistic ghost holograms and spectacular effects that recreate awesome movie moments through special projection on a large screen. Projection mapping transforms the ride with dynamic scenes from the movie, including icy landscapes and ghost realms. Dolby Atmos Surround Sound helps deliver an immersive experience with movie soundtracks and environmental cues. Riders experience the thrill of navigating through an environment that comes alive in the dark, adding a mysterious and exciting layer to their adventure. Columbia Pictures Aquaverse is the world’s first Columbia Pictures theme and waterpark, and is located 20 minutes south of Pattaya in the Bangsaray area. Ghostbusters merchandise is exclusively available for purchase and epic photos can be snapped with Ghostbusters-themed backdrops.
STUFF
Eyewear collection / Cos x Linda Farrow
Cos and Linda Farrow have introduced a limited-edition capsule 10-piece collection. The collections features modified favourites from the debut Cos × Linda Farrow collaboration alongside freshly reworked archival frames. A 70s oversized shape synonymous with Farrow is reimagined with colourful transparent frames, evoking a sense of nostalgia and sophistication. Reworked tortoiseshell aviators with gradient-tinted lenses feature alongside gently curved oval frames and a narrower cat-eye silhouette, blending old-school charm with modern sensibilities. Designed with longevity and function in mind, the lenses offer 100% UV protection and are enclosed in a protective case with a cleaning cloth. Available globally online and in stores.
Limited edition / Mido
Mido's latest timepieces pay homage to the analogue era. The “Multifort TV Big Date Limited Edition S01E01” showcases test card screens from old-school TVs on their dials. They're available in only 999 units across the globe. The limited edition collection is a successor to the Multifort TV series, which was first launched last year. Each piece comes with three straps to suit different moods; one in stainless and two in rubber. Each comes in exclusive packaging and is etched with a serial number on the back. Available now at Mido counters or its official store in Shopee and Lazada.
