Guru By Bangkok Post's pick of the most exciting products, activities, food and travel to indulge in.
EAT
Art for a cause / 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok x Artstory by Thai Autistic / Until April 30, 2025
137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok has launched "The Art Of Giving" afternoon tea set in partnership with Artstory by Thai Autistic, an initiative that aims to celebrate the creativity and talent of individuals with autism while promoting inclusivity and support. Experience a blend of flavours with crafted savoury and sweet bites, served alongside freshly baked scones, jam and Monsoon Tea. The tea highlights include Edamame mousse with Parmesan in a charcoal tart topped with greens; Salmon parfait with ikura on crispy raspberries; Seared scallop filled with tomato and avocado mousse, wrapped in parma ham and topped with Chiang Mai caviar; Baked lobster, crab meat and fennel in savoury tart topped with Cheddar; Yuzu and citrus cream nested in coconut dacquoise within a meringue tart; Strawberry and mulberry in cream cheese mousse; Green tea mousse with red bean filling, glazed with colourful vanilla; Hazelnut praline with dark chocolate base; and a Cherry brandy raincake. The set’s placemat features artwork created by ArtStory, showcasing their unique talents while symbolising 137 Pillars' story. Part of the revenue from every "The Art Of Giving" afternoon tea set sold will be donated to the Thai Autistic Foundation. Available until April 30, 2025, tea can be had with two glasses of sparkling wine. Visit the hotel’s website.
Culinary collab / Seasons x Potong / May 24-25
Wynn Palace Macau’s executive chef Tam Kwok Fung of “Chef Tam’s Seasons”, the new concept restaurant, teams up with chef Pichaya “Pam” Soontornyanakij of Potong to present a four-hands dining experience at Chef Tam’s Seasons in Macau on May 24-25. The two chefs will be serving a Cantonese-Thai gastronomic adventure. Visit the hotel’s website.
New world jewels / The District Grill Room & Bar / May 23
The District Grill Room & Bar at Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit, in collaboration with Concha y Toro, will host a gastronomic journey celebrating the rich traditions and flavours of Chilean cuisine and wine, on May 23. Isabel Mitarakis, a member of the Guilisasti family, will be in attendance and the meal will be curated by executive chef Frederik Farina and The District head chef Pikul Bunsak. The meal begins with oysters and Terrunyo Sauvignon Blanc 2021 from Los Boldos vineyard. This will be followed by Stewed snail risotto paired with Concha y Toro Master Edition Cabernet Sauvignon 2020. Braised Iberico pork cheek will be served with Terrunyo Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, and Wagyu ox tongue will be paired with Marques de Casa Concha Heritage — Cabernet Sauvignon 2020. The wine journey culminates with Short ribs served with Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 vintage. Visit the hotel’s website.
Four hands dinner / Jampa x Aulis Phuket / May 24-25
Two sustainable restaurants in Phuket, Jampa and Aulis By Simon Rogan, will join forces for two four-hands experiences on May 24-25. On May 24, Jampa executive chef Rick Dingen and Aulis Phuket head chef Charlie Wilson will serve a 15-course tasting menu at Jampa, showcasing signature dishes of each restaurant. On May 25, there will be a relaxed lunch at Hideaway By Jampa, where diners are seated at an al fresco chef’s table in the Pru Jampa Farm. Visit the restaurant’s website.
Chef collab / Mia Restaurant / May 29
Mia Restaurant will host chef Tap Supasitkokpol from Coda in the"Friends Of Mia — Next Gen Series”. The second event of this year will be held on May 29 and will offer a tasting menu showcasing an array of Thai delicacies. Visit the restaurant’s website.
Dragon boat festival / Shang Palace Chinese Restaurant / May 20 to June 14
Celebrate the bond of family and the joy of togetherness with traditional rice dumplings at Shang Palace Chinese Restaurant, at the Shangri-La Bangkok, during this year’s annual Dragon Boat Festival. Exquisite rice dumpling sets complete with custom-designed gift boxes are the perfect premium gift to family and friends. Shang Palace introduces three mouth-watering flavours of rice dumplings: Signature X.O. abalone rice dumpling; Traditional rice dumpling (pork with salted egg); and sweet rice dumpling. Available from May 20 to June 14, with a five-day advance booking for orders of more than 20 boxes. Visit the hotel’s website.
Vietnam delights / Khao by Four Seasons / May 25-30
Embark on a journey to Vietnam's culinary heart at Khao by Four Seasons from May 25-30. The “Vietnam Delights” à la carte menu is crafted by chef Nguyen Yen from the Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai in Hoi An, Vietnam. From the Grilled beef with five-spice sauce to Fresh prawn summer rolls, the menu is available throughout the day. On May 25, chefs Yen and Naruchit Taingtrong will be serving a “Four Hands Dinner” presenting Thai and Vietnamese delicacies. On May 26 at Rim Tai Kitchen, the chefs will be cooking a “Four Hands Buffet”, highlights of which include Marinated prawns wrapped in noodles with plum sauce and Grilled tiger prawns with thai spicy seafood sauce. Visit the resort’s website.
Seasonal best / Fireplace Grill and Bar / May 15 to June 16
Smooth glorious white asparagus and crunchy earthy green asparagus are both at the height of the season this time of year, and Fireplace Grill and Bar at InterContinental Bangkok is celebrating both varieties. Executive chef Gaetano Palumbo has created a special a la carte menu and a creative four-course set menu, with even the dessert featuring this nutritious vegetable. White asparagus goes into a gazpacho made with poached Ostra Regal oyster and a main of seared Hokkaido scallop with Parmesan. The grassy taste of green asparagus perfectly complements grilled Stockyard beef tenderloin, while the dessert of white asparagus with dark chocolate and raspberry rhubarb is amazing. Visit the hotel’s website.
Summer seafood / Orchid Café / Until June 2
Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit will offer a duo of special culinary promotions at its Grande Seafood Weekend Dinner Buffet, highlighting Steamed mud crab and sweet treats from new pastry chef, Jaturaporn Wannasirilux. Staged every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening at Orchid Café, the buffet showcases premium produce and dishes from around the world. Chef Jaturaporn will showcase the Marian plum, in a Mayong chit vanilla cake, Mayong chit mousse trifle and Mayong chit cheesecake. He will also craft assorted chocolate pralines and 10 flavours of homemade macarons, which can be experienced as part of the buffet or purchased in a beautiful box to take home.
New brunch / Bangkok Trading Post
The Bangkok Trading Post at 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok has updated its brunch menu, showcasing Western-style comfort dishes in a cozy, indoor atmosphere and lush pet-friendly garden patio. Start with a Beefy English breakfast, a typical English served with an extra portion of succulent beef tenderloin. The Baked eggs in potatoes is where baked eggs with onions and Cheddar are cooked inside potatoes and topped with Hollandaise sauce. For a healthy salad, the Tuna tataki showcases sesame-crusted seared tuna served with rocket, pine nuts and Parmesan. The new menu also offers a pasta selection of Squid ink angel hair pasta with shrimp and Beef Bolognese crab fettuccine. Delight in the northern Thai flavours of the Lanna pizza, featuring spicy sausage and nam prik ong, a pork and tomato chili paste; or the Rib eye steak with sautéed potatoes, mushrooms and baked spinach. The menu also features plant-based options and desserts like Mango tiramisu and a selection of coffee beans sourced from Thailand and beyond. Visit the hotel’s website.
Surf and turf / Stock.Room
Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok’s experiential eatery, has launched the “Sea+Land” extravaganza featuring unlimited servings of fresh seafood, premium meats and à la minute specialties from live, interactive open kitchens. “Sea+Land” showcases Thailand’s abundance of ingredients from the sea and harvested from the land, coupled with Thai cuisine’s explosive aromas and flavours, available daily. Create a bespoke surf and turf platter with fresh blue crab, tiger prawn, sea bass, salmon and squid, plus succulent Australian Wagyu beef steaks, lamb chops, tandoor skewers, artisanal sausages, and much more. Pair the meal with popular Asian street food, like stir-fried seafood with cashew nuts, mango salad with deep-fried sea bass, stir-fried rock lobsters with salted egg, seafood omelette and more. The à la minute noodles station also serves up seafood mala, shabu shabu and ramen. Visit the hotel’s website.
Dine and star gaze / Anantara Layan Phuket Resort
From a grill-focused menu brimming with seasonal produce to guided astronomy sessions paired with craft cocktails and hands-on Thai cooking classes, Dara Cuisine Phuket and sky observatory recently opened at the Anantara Layan Phuket Resort. Dara, meaning “star” in Thai, celebrates the culinary heritage and intrepid Andaman seafarers who used stars for navigation and the new sky observatory is a stargazer’s paradise. The breezy observatory deck, equipped with a custom-built ash dome, offers an intimate rooftop experience where the universe unfolds. As guests sip on constellation-inspired craft cocktails, Sky Storytellers guide them through the wonders of the night sky, through a state-of-the-art telescope. During the day, the space offers masterclasses in Thai cooking, while at nightie serves specialties from all corners of Thailand. Heading the kitchen is Supakarn “Hong” Lienpanich, who brings his family recipes and passion for fermentation to the table. With an on-site fermentation kitchen, barrel-aged fish sauce cellar, and a verdant herb garden, Dara is a living ecosystem that nurtures every ingredient to its fullest potential. Visit the resort’s website.
Seasonal menu / Volti Tuscan Grill & Bar / Until May 31
Dive into the abundance of the Mediterranean with a Sicilian-inspired menu by executive Italian chef Bruno Ferrari. Every bite of Caponata Siciliana will give you a taste of the sun-soaked island while the Grilled swordfish is truly a delight for those who appreciate high-quality seafood. Conclude your feast with a delightful Cannoli, filled with sweet ricotta, a perfect finale to your Sicilian journey. A six-course menu is available for dinner until May 31 at the Shangri-La Bangkok’s Volti Tuscan Grill & Bar.
New partnership / Meliá Chiang Mai
Meliá Chiang Mai has joined forces with a new sustainable and chemical-free farm to source the likes of rare, local greens, cage-free eggs and sterilised fresh milk, expanding its "360° Cuisine" programme. In partnership with organic gourmet farm Rong Khum in San Pa Tong, the hotel sources organic jasmine rice, cage-free eggs, fresh organic milk free of added hormones, vegetables such as betel leaves, coriander, spring onion, star gooseberry and chilli, and fruits including longan, lychee, papaya, dragon fruit and bananas for the kitches of Mai Restaurant & Bar, Laan Na Kitchen, Mai The Sky Bar and Ruen Kaew Lounge. The hotel also offers guests a " "Seed" experience where they can go to Rong Khum to meet farmers and learn more about sustainable farming and healthier eating, as part of its "Journey To The Farm Package".
Four-hands premium / Rossini’s / May 24
Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit’s chef Giacomo Vinci joins forces with Khao Lak Marriott Resort’s chef Fabio Genghini for a four-hands dinner on May 24 to showcase local, seasonal and sustainable produce. A choice of two six-course set menus will be available, including a vegetarian option, both of which will use highly seasonal and sustainable ingredients, either locally sourced or imported directly from responsible farms and fisheries in Italy. The evening will commence with handcrafted canapés and a flute of prosecco, followed by Aburi-style Citrus-marinated local mackerel. A pasta dish of handcrafted Jerusalem artichoke tortellini with either local duck or pumpkin ragù will be complemented with a ruby-red vintage from the foothills of Mount Etna in Sicily, before diners are presented with two dishes from land and sea. The adventure concludes with the chefs’ original take on Tiramisu with Bailey’s coffee cream liqueur, toasted hazelnuts and Kahlua-infused Chantilly cream, followed by a selection of petit fours and freshly brewed Segafredo coffee. Visit the hotel's website.
TRAVEL
Wellness living / Garrya Residences Phuket
Banyan Group Residences has launched Garrya Residences in Phuket, with a strong focus on wellness, featuring 38 two-bedroom apartments, plus penthouses with private rooftop pools, at the Laguna Phuket integrated resort. Named after the pure and graceful winter flower, Garrya Residences are styled as a "minimalist haven”, seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor living. Garrya Residences will feature flowing waterscapes, including a jungle pool and reflection pond, as well as a wellness and spa treatment zone. For leisure and entertainment, a beach club and bar complete with a lap and party pool await at the beachfront.
Getaway package / The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa, Phuket / Until Oct 31
Immerse yourself in tranquility and indulge in a luxurious escape with The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa, Phuket’s “Westin Getaway Package”. Nestled in a secluded cove, overlooking the pristine white sands of Siray Bay and just a short drive from Phuket Town, the resort promises stylish accommodation, delectable dining and stunning sea views, creating the ultimate opportunity for relaxation and rejuvenation. The package includes a saily buffet breakfast for two people, daily three-course dinner (or buffet dinner when available) and kids eat for free. The package is valid until Oct 31. Visit the resort’s website.
Anniversary package / Asai Bangkok Sathorn and Asai Bangkok Chinatown
Both hotels are offering a special “Anniversary Celebration Package” with a variety of perks. Booking is until May 31 for stay dates through Sept 30. The package includes an international buffet breakfast, complimentary soft drinks, tea and coffee throughout the day, a two-hour free flow house drinks and snacks, a 20% discount on food and non-alcoholic beverages and early check-in and late check-out, subject to availability. Visit the hotels’ websites.
Turning 75 / Dusit Hotel and Resorts
Dusit Hotels and Resorts is marking its 75th anniversary with "The Art Of Travel", a campaign featuring exclusive offers at selected Dusit properties across Thailand, Japan, the Maldives, China and beyond, in addition to, a social media contest for a chance to win free stays plus pocket money at any Dusit worldwide. The first offer — Delight in Your Getaway — includes up to 10% discount on room rates and up to 30% complimentary hotel credit to spend on dining and spa treatments. The offer is available for direct bookings via Dusit's website until June 10 for stays until July 10. Dusit Gold members enjoy additional perks when booking the offer, including an extra 10% off their stay and Dusit Instant Delight rewards. Dusit has also launched an Instagram contest called "Which Escape Awaits?". Participants can use Dusit's exclusive AR filters and create a public Reel, sharing their dream Dusit property and why they want to visit. They must also include #DusitEscape and @Dusit.Hotels within the caption. Seventeen winners will be chosen, with the contest running until July 15 and winners announced on July 30.
JOIN
Summer bliss / Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach / Until May 31
Quan Spa, the resort’s serene wellness sanctuary, has unveiled a choice of treatments this month. The “Summer Bliss Revival” harnesses the organic healing power of aloe vera to let guests restore their skin and refresh their senses. This natural ingredient’s cool, curative power will be embraced with a 60-minute Aloe Vera Body Wrap or Body Massage, followed by a 45-minute Quan Spa Signature Facial. Tailor your own wellness journey with an exclusive 90-minute Serenity Selection. Choose one massage (aromatherapy, traditional Thai, back relief, foot or Indian head massage), one blissful body wrap (Quan signature, Asian white or green tea) and one invigorating body scrub (coconut salt, honey sesame, tamarind or espresso), to create a fully immersive 90-minute package. The Spa Buffet is available from May 15. Visit the resort’s website.
Pampered pooch / InterContinental Khao Yai Resort / May 25
Unleash the fun as the “Pampered Pet Experience” kicks off at InterContinental Khao Yai Resort on May 25. A tail-wagging line-up of activities will make your day and stay extraordinary. There will be a costume contest, "Meet Fabia”, a welcome pet pack and refreshments. There will also be a dog run along the banks of Swan Lake. The event is free for in-house guests and welcomes external guests. Special rates are available for that weekend. Visit the resort’s website.
Dinner theatre / The Essential Opera Company X Bangkok Community Theatre / May 24-25
The Essential Opera Company and the Bangkok Community Theatre will hold Verdi’s masterpiece "La Traviata", a dinner theatre show at the British Club, Bangkok. Open to members and non-members. Featuring renowned professional soloists Tae Miyata, Benjamin Dooley and Palang Rocksilp, this intimate studio production welcomes all music lovers, opera newcomers included. "La Traviata" ranks among the world’s most popular operas and recounts the heart-wrenching tale of courtesan Violetta and her whirlwind romance with Alfredo, as they navigate jealousy, betrayal, the expectations of Alfredo’s father, and the norms of Parisian high-society. Verdi’s timeless score combines classical music’s most well-known and uplifting vocal works with moments of tenderness, passion, anger, and darkness. The theatrical staging provides a feast for the senses, with party-scenes, a wild card game, a gypsy chorus and a spectacular matador’s dance. Tickets can be bought at Ticketmelon.
Together again / Together Festival 2024 / June 7-8
For its 2024 edition, Together Festival returns as a two-day EDM extravaganza at Bitec Bangna, featuring the world's leading DJs like Steve Angello, Alan Walker, Gryffin, Knock2, RL Grime, NWYR and more. Norwegian DJ and music producer Alan Walker, who's known for hits “Alone”, “The Spectre” and “Faded”, will return to Thailand to headline the festival. Visit festival's Facebook page.
New date added / Guts World Tour / Sept 15
Due to high demand, one more date has been added to Olivia Rodrigo's debut performance in Thailand at Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani. Originally her concert was scheduled for Sept 16 but now Sept 15 has been added, resulting in a two-day run in Bangkok for the American singer-songwriter and actress. Rodrigo has established herself as a serious music talent within a short span of two studio albums, both of which earned her many accolades and nominations, including Grammy Awards. Tickets to the "2024 Guts World Tour” in Bangkok on Sept 15 will go on sale from May 20 via ThaiTicketMajor's website.
Bad wolf and books / Big Bad Wolf 2024 / May 23 to June 4
Bibliophiles, it's time to add more to your pile of yet-to-read books. Big Bad Wolf is returning to The Market Bangkok in Ratchaprasong for its 2024 edition. The world-class English-language book fair features 2 million books across all kinds of genres and up to 95% discount on selected titles. Free admission.
Cinemas for unity / 30th EU Film Festival / Until May 26
The Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Thailand, along with the EU Member States (EUMS) Embassies and Cultural Institutions in Thailand, and the Embassy of Ukraine in Thailand, recently launched the 30th European Union (EU) Film Festival 2024 in Bangkok at House Samyan. This year's festival coincides with the month of Europe Day, which celebrates the founding of the European Union on May 9. Anyone can enjoy 17 quality European films selected by the EU Member States Embassies and Cultural Institutions in Thailand, along with the Embassy of Ukraine in Thailand, until May 26 at House Samyan. Tickets are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis, with no advance booking. You need to come to the cinema one hour before each showtime to get your tickets. Each can collect a maximum of two tickets. Visit the European Union in Thailand Facebook’s page.
STUFF
New release / D Gerrard
Stay is the new single from Thai artist D Gerrard featuring NiceCNX. Stay is a unique blend of Thai and hip-hop influences, featuring a catchy tribal flute with a Thai melody set against a driving hip-hop beat. D Gerrard, a rising star in the Thai music and movie scene, has been catching the attention of fans and industry professionals alike with his unique blend of Thai and modern influences. Stay is a song about the universal desire for connection and stability in a relationship, and has been released on Asiatic.wav, with the visualiser on D Gerrard’s YouTube channel.
Price drop / Muji
Muji Thailand recently announced price adjustments for more than 126 items across all categories, in line with the slogan "Always Good Value, Always Good Price”. Buy selected Muji items at more than 20% off. Markdown items include sneakers, backpacks, luggage, tablecloths, bean bags, seat cushions, facial skincare products, instant curry and more. Muji will also introduce new products designed taking local factors into consideration such as people's personality traits, geographical conditions, climate and culture. Muji will also expand into the northeastern region, with upcoming branches in Central Khon Kaen in June and Central Udon Thani in July.
