Guru By Bangkok Post's pick of the most exciting products, activities, food and travel to indulge in.
JOIN
Chefs collab / Restaurant Resonance x Esora Singapore / June 26-27
Restaurant Resonance will host a culinary collaboration between chef Takeshi Araki from the Michelin-starred modern kappo restaurant, Esora in Singapore, and chef Shunsuke Shimomura on June 26-27. The chefs will collaborate to serve a 10-course tasting menu, which combines Japanese culinary heritage with modern techniques. The chefs share a passion for nature, seasonality and purity of ingredients. Chef Araki will present his his signature dish from Esora, Foie gras monaka, while chef Shimomura will serve Grilled venison with sautéd nameko mushrooms and a fermented nameko sauce. Visit the restaurant’s website.
Peru in Bangkok / Chullchick x Vertigo Too / June 28-29
Vertigo Too will host a kitchen takeover featuring Peruvian chef Abel Ortiz Alvarez, founder of Chullschick in Hong Kong. Chullschick opened its doors in Hong Kong in 2014. The word "chulls" means "friend" in Peruvian slang and "chick" refers to chicken. Highlights include classic Peruvian ceviche, Grilled octopus and the iconic Pollo a la brasa, a style of roasted chicken native to Lima, the capital of Peru. Indulge with a wine paring or a pisco sour to enhance the Peruvian vibes. Chef Alvarez’s much acclaimed cuisine will be available on June 28-29. The six Peruvian delights will be served in sharing portions. Visit the hotel’s website.
Midsummer feast / Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin x Villa Frantzén / June 25 and June 27
A culinary collab brings together Swedish and Danish-Thai traditions. Nilas Corneliussen from Villa Frantzén and Henrik Yde-Andersen from Sra Bua By Kiin Kiin will cook a four-hands dinner on June 25, for a dining experience themed “Midsommar”, which is the Scandinavian celebration that marks the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year. Though the day falls on June 22, the first dinner will be held on June 25 at Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin in Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok, followed by a second dinner on June 27 at Villa Frantzén. Expect dishes such as White asparagus with tom ka slush, Dill marinated crayfish with red curry, Rødgrød, Denmark’s national dish, New potatoes with crème fraîche, brown butter and anchovies sauce, Grilled lamb with pomme anna and the iconic Swedish Prinsesstårta. Both dinners will feature identical menus, including six bites and a six-course tasting menu with petit fours. Visit either restaurant’s website.
Film series / TK Park / June 29
The popular Contemporary World Film Series resumes at TK Park on June 29 with a movie from Guatemala. This is the first film from the Central American country to be screened in Thailand. Directed by the country’s most renowned film-maker Kenneth Mueller, Septiembre, un llanto en silencio (September, A Silent Cry) is the story is a powerful exploration of love, resilience and the human spirit. A dying Guatemalan war veteran agrees to accompany a girl searching for information about her grandfather, his comrade in arms. Flash backs show the campaign the men fought in when young. The screening is supported by the Embassy of Guatemala, who will serve an array of local snacks and drinks, with the Ambassador Shirley Dennise Aguilar Barrera introducing the film. Email filmforum17@gmail.com for reservations.
Film festival / Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok / June 29
Back for the fourth consecutive year, Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok presents the Pride Film Festival on June 29. The one-day event showcases films that are hand-picked to celebrate all things queer and everything in between and beyond, along with PrideTalks and an after-party at Bar.Yard. Screenings are free admission upon advance reservation and the festival is presented in collaboration with the Colombian and Australian embassies. The festival features five films that have played iconic roles in the LGBTQIA+ movement at the Grand Studio. All of films are in English, with the exception of the Colombian film and Thai film that have English subtitles. The Danish Girl, Of An Age, Beginners, Miss Maria and The Iron Ladies will be screened. This year, a 30-minute panel featuring a representative of Girlxgirl, a community dedicated to women who love women addressing "Things That You May Not Know Regarding The Lesbian Community", will be held in Thai. The other panelist is Tana Sukke, a trans comedian, who will highlight "Representation Of Queer People In Movies And Transgender Struggles In Media", conducted in English. Tana will also delve into each of the films being showcased, offering her perspectives as a self-proclaimed film enthusiast. Visit the hotel’s website.
Guest shift / Havana Social x Sidecar x The Stranger Bar / June 26-27
Under the Sabor de Cuba guest shift series, Havana Social will host India’s Sandesh Subba from the acclaimed Sidecar in Delhi on June 26. Sidecar, recognised as one of Asia's 50 best bars, is celebrated for its craft cocktails and innovative use of ingredients. The bar is known for its “Whatever You Say” concept, where bartenders create bespoke cocktails. Sidecar uses seasonal and local ingredients, steel straws and reuses bottles for in-house purees and tinctures. Subba will be showcasing his expertise with a selection of cocktails in the form of the Mugwort vermouth, hibiscus powder and mango jalapeño, blending Cuban soul with Indian ingenuity. On June 27, Havana Social partners with The Stranger Bar for a Pride fiesta. An evening of fun, drag performances and vibrant cocktails will make the rainbow shine brighter than ever. Visit the bar’s website.
Pride month / Virgin Active Thailand / June 24-29
Virgin Active Thailand has announced a series of initiatives and events aimed at celebrating diversity, inclusion and the power of togetherness. From June 24-29, all branches will feature new Les Mills workout releases. Participants are encouraged to immerse themselves in the fun by dressing in gym gear that matches the colour theme of each class. For instance, Body Pump Class calls for red attire, Body Jam Class for yellow, Body Combat Class for green, and RMP Class for blue. The pinnacle of the Pride Month celebration culminates in the Pride Parade hosted by EmQuartier on June 30.
Carving show / Goji Kitchen + Bar / June 28-29
Goji Kitchen + Bar at the Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park is serving flavours of Japan this month, with an epicurean fiesta that includes a live bluefin tuna carving demonstration by a Japanese master chef. On June 28-29, as part of the International Weekend Buffet Dinner, chef Jay will carve a 80-90kg Spanish Bluefin tuna. Diners will then be able to enjoy fresh cuts as part of a memorable evening meal. Supplied by Fuentes, the tuna has been sustainably sourced. the show is part of a three-day Japanese fiesta, where the chef will also serve the highest quality sashimi and tataki cuts (o-toro and chu-toro) as part of an extended Sushi & Sashimi Station, including hand rolls, nigiri, maki and negitoro. These delicacies can be perfectly paired with a selection of premium sakes and handcrafted cocktails, plus Japanese-inspired mocktails and soft drinks. Visit the hotel's website.
Bar takeover / Maybe Sammy x Firefly Bar / June 26
Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok will host the award-winning Maybe Sammy from Sydney, Australia on June 26 at Firefly Bar. Manuel Belotti, Hunter Gregory and Vincenzo Sidari will be from Maybe Sammy will be shaking and stirring cocktails from their latest Mirage menu, which uses AI-generated art on each page. Visit the hotel's website.
Wine dinner / Maison Les Alexandrins x Tsu Japanese Restaurant / June 29
Tsu Japanese Restaurant at the JW Marriott will host a wine dinner featuring Maison Les Alexandrins, a renowned winery from France, on June 29. Led by Japanese head chef Atsushi Yoshida, the six-course menu showcases the finest seasonal ingredients and traditional Japanese cooking techniques. The contemporary yet timeless Maison Les Alexandrins wines complement each course. The journey begins with a refreshing combination of sustainable Norwegian salmon and hamachi sashimi, alongside a California and grilled eel maki roll, paired with Maison Les Alexandrins Le Cabanon Blanc 2022. Following this, the Maison Les Alexandrins Le Cote Du Rhone Blanc 2022 with Grilled snow fish and a touch of wasabi, complemented by simmered lotus root, carrot, and konjac yam prepared “Chikuzenni” style and tamagoyaki. The adventure continues with Prawn and chicken “Okaki Age” wrapped in a crispy Japanese rice cracker, drizzled with onion sauce, and complemented by Maison Les Alexandrins Le Cabanon Rouge Syrah 2022. For the fourth course, a decadent pairing awaits with Marinated duck breast and chilled foie gras, accompanied by dashi chawanmushi and Maison Les Alexandrins AOC Le Cote du Rhone Rouge 2022. The highlight is the main course of Wagyu Sukini, a striploin cooked to perfection, served with creamy mashed potato, vegetables, egg, and daikon sauce, paired with Maison Les Alexandrins Le Crozes-Hermitage Rouge 2021. The exquisite symphony of flavours ends on a sweet note with a Kinako pudding with refreshing mango, strawberry, melon and mint. Pay before June 24 and receive a 20% discount. Visit the hotel's website.
Guest appearance / Mott 32 Bangkok / June 26-29
Mott 32 Bangkok will host Group Executive Chef Lee Man Sing from June 26-29th, who will be serving a meticulously crafted a la carte menu. The menu opens with a Crispy bird's nest starter topped with premium Oscietra caviar and comforting Hot and sour soup with king prawn and vegetables, while main course options range from the indulgent Stuffed crab claw to crispy chicken with fermented bean curd. Chef Sing's menu will be available until July 31. Mott 32 Bangkok is at The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon. Visit the hotel's website.
Contemporary Chinese / RCB Galleria / July 6 to Aug 25
River City Bangkok, in cooperation with ArtDepot, presents the Thailand debut of Chinese contemporary artist Zhang Zhanzhan to be held at RCB Galleria from July 6 to Aug 25. "Beyond The Last Miles" ponders the journey of life through the artist's eyes, which at times seems endless and lonely. While we venture out on individual adventures, we learn to find happiness and warmth to keep our hearts alive and strong along the way.
Proud and healthy / Samyan Mitrtown / June 29
The fourth edition of the SX Talk Series by Thai Beverage will explore the state of physical and mental health of the LGBTQ+ community in Thailand. Four doctors will share insights on various topics from transition, hormone use at different stages of life and more, at C Asean Samyan Co-op, Samyan Mitrtown. Free admission. Visit the website.
Drag brunch / The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon / June 29
Cap off Pride Month with a special drag brunch at The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon, to be held in collaboration with G-Spot Entertainment. It'll be hosted by Drag Race Thailand alumnus Amadiva while DJ Tannix will play a groovy set live. Starting from noon, the four-hour brunch at The Standard Grill offers plenty to savour and sip. An optional unlimited drink package is also available. Visit Megatix for tickets.
Art adds to life / C43: Fashion and Inspiration Space / July 5 to Aug 3
Renowned Thai architect Sompong Panich will present “Life Is Less Without Art” at C43: Fashion and Inspiration Space at Charoen 43 Art and Eatery, next month. His solo exhibition invites viewers to release all their feelings and unleash their imaginations. Sompong has created clay sculptures that are simple yet profoundly complex, depicting the relationships between two people. This exhibition allows viewers to weave their own stories into his artworks.
Pride at Parq / Parq / Until July 31
The Parq, the mixed-use project located at an intersection between Rama IV and Ratchadaphisek Road, has launched the "Cheers To Pride" campaign to celebrate Pride Month. It was kicked off with a mini-concert by Pure The Voice, Thailand’s R&B powerhouse diva, and there are special promotions from participating stores in The Parq Life throughout this campaign's duration. Fulfil a buying condition to get a free commemorative double-layer travel mug, which can be reused and get discounts at participating stores.
STUFF
New beverage / Suntory Global Spirits
Suntory Global Spirits, a world leader in premium spirits introduces -196 (minus-one-nine-six), a fruit-flavoured vodka and soda using the whole fruit. This year is 20th year of the drink since its release in Japan in 2005, where it gained immense popularity to become Suntory’s best-selling canned ready-to-drink offering. Available at convenience stores and major retailers nationwide, -196 is crafted using Suntory’s proprietary FCI (Freeze Crush Infusion) technology, while adhering to Japan’s rigorous standards. This innovative method involves freezing the whole fruit, including the peel, pulp and seeds, in liquid nitrogen at -196 degrees Celsius, then crushes and infuses it with alcohol. This preserves the distinctive taste and quality of the fruit, resulting in a beverage that offers “real fruit taste” and also showcases the vibrant flavour of real fruits. This meticulous process serves as the inspiration behind the name -196. In Thailand, it is available in two delightful flavours: lemon and grape.
Beyond walls / Fritz Hansen
Immerse yourself in the world of Fritz Hansen, where design and craftsmanship transcend the ordinary. A seamless extension space from the showroom showcases Fritz Hansen’s latest collection. On display is the Lissoni Sofa Collection by Piero Lissoni, fully upholstered in elegant yet casual textiles of natural shades and rich textures. Two iconic wooden chairs — the Carimate Chair, designed by the visionary Italian designer Vico Magistretti, and PK15 from Poul Kjærholm, showcasing his mastery of natural material design, are also on display. For the first time, meet The Egg Chair Collector’s Edition Pure Leather, upholstered in forest green paired with the warm copper tones of the star-shaped base. Crafted from leather that will mature over time, developing a rich patina that enhances its natural beauty.
New fragrance / Le Labo
When the first drops of rain fall on the parched forest, they bring moisture that revitalises the dry leaves and brittle branches down to the cracked earth, releasing a comforting earthy aroma throughout the forest. It signals the return of life to nature after a prolonged drought. This is the inspiration behind Baie 19 from Le Labo, one of the brand's iconic fragrances beloved by perfume enthusiasts worldwide, especially during the transition to the lush rainy season. Inspired by "petrichor" that emerges when rain falls heavily after a long dry spell, Baie 19 captures one of nature's most beautiful olfactory phenomena. The perfume blends the scent of dry juniper berry, patchouli and green leaves, offering a fresh, genderless fragrance. It is available in the form of eau de parfum, in 15ml, 50ml, 100ml, 500ml, and a 10ml travel tube refill. There is also liquid balm, a formula crafted from safflower oil and packaged in a portable glass roller tube. There are also various items from the Brown Collection, including perfuming shower gel, perfuming body lotion and massage and bath perfuming oil, which will infuse your daily routine with the unique and refreshing scent of Baie 19 throughout the rainy season.
Seasonal colour / Rimowa / From June 27
If you plan to travel in style, you may want to consider a new seasonal colour from Rimowa. The German brand, known for its stylish and sturdy-looking luggage, introduces a new collection, named Emerald after its new colour. Rimowa unveils a campaign set in a fictional universe where the colour takes centrestage. The Rimowa Original suitcase becomes a portal into a realm that celebrates the beauty of the gem. This imaginative landscape, created by artist Jean-Jacques Balzac, is inspired by the vibrant green hues of the gem and futurist architecture. The new colour is available across the Rimowa Original collection, including Cabin, Check-In L and Trunk Plus. Available at Rimowa stores and online.
EAT
Tropical fiesta / Siam Tea Room / Until July 31
Indulge in a tropical symphony of tastes and textures at The Siam Tea Room, Throughout June and July, diners can experience a vibrant fusion of flavours from this tropical region at the Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen's Park or at Asiatique The Riverfront. Expect Young durian salad with fresh mangosteen and shrimp; Grilled fishcake skewers with sweet cucumber dip; Stir-fried seafood with oyster sauce, garlic, spring onion and red chili; Spicy grouper soup with salak fruit; Spicy and sour chicken soup with young cardamom shoots; Slow-braised beef cheek massaman with durian; and Chanthaburi-style pork curry with cha muang leaves. Thai desserts are Durian sticky rice with coconut ice cream and Pandan custard with crunchy peanuts. Visit the hotel’s website.
Premium add-ons / Ventisi Restaurant
Ventisi Restaurant at the Centara Grand at CentralWorld has included premium add-ons to its International Buffet Dinner. Available every Thursday to Saturday, this dinner buffet showcases a tantalising array of Italian and Thai dishes, complemented by a lavish seafood display featuring river prawns, crabs, mussels and much more. Enhance th meal with a Lobster tail Thermidor or choose three premium dishes from Wagyu beef boat noodles, Grilled rack of lamb, Grilled river prawn, crab cakes, crab curry, Dover sole meunière and Pan-seared foie gras. Visit the hotel’s website.
Spanish weekend / Uno Mas
Uno Mas, the Spanish restaurant located at Centara Grand at CentralWorld, has launched a weekend lunch buffet, being served on Saturday, Sunday and public holidays. The buffet features an array of Spanish culinary delights such as Octopus salad with orange and pomegranate, Salmon belly with miso and vegetables, and Crab tartare with avocado and caviar. Main courses offer a variety of dishes, including Tuna loin with tomato chutney, Crispy pork belly "Torrezno" with paprika mashed potato, Beef cheeks in red wine stew with black trumpet mushroom purée, and Crispy chicken roll flamenquin with ham and Tetilla cheese. Desserts will come in the form of Basque cheesecake, traditional Brazo Gitano, Crema Catalana, Churros with chocolate sauce and Pantxineta. There’s even free-flow sangria and Spanish draught beer on offer. Visit the hotel’s website.
TRAVEL
Anniversary giveaway / Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach / Until June 25
Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach is celebrating its 8th anniversary this month. In celebration, the resort has launched the “8th Anniversary Contest” giving the resort’s social media followers the chance to win eight prizes. Seven lucky runners up will also enjoy fantastic prizes, including sensational stays, exclusive dining experiences, day-use passes and more. Running on Facebook and Instagram until June 25, winners will be announced on June 30. The 8th Anniversary Package includes a two-night stay in a One-Bedroom Pool Villa, plus eight benefits like roundtrip airport transfers, daily breakfast for two guests at Andaman Kitchen or a private in-villa floating breakfast, a bottle of Chandon upon arrival, a romantic dinner in a cabana on the beach or an in-villa dinner, a 120-minute Thai massage for two people, recreation activities for two, full-day bicycle rental plus a bike tour to the morning market and a private Thai cooking class at Mama’s Kitchen. Visit the resort’s website.
Residents’ package / The Slate Phuket / Until Oct 31
The Slate Phuket has introduced a range of exclusive inclusions, upgrades and discounts specifically for Thai residents. Each booking includes complimentary breakfast, airport transfers and resort activities. The longer the stay, the more the benefits. Thai residents will also enjoy a complimentary upgrade. For bookings of two nights or more, The Slate will include a free 60-minute massage, while for bookings of three nights or more you will receive all the above, as well as a complimentary dinner at the hotel’s stunning restaurant Black Ginger. Bookings of three nights or more in a Pearl Bed Suite will receive a free upgrade to a private pool suite, as well as all the other benefits outlined. Visit the resort’s website.
Experience glamour / Anantara Resorts Phuket
Step into the sun-kissed world of the chart-topping “Mother Of The Bride” at Anantara Layan Phuket Resort and Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas. For a taste of celebrity life with a full suite of VIP services and amenities, book the Two-Bedroom Royal Villa by Jim Thompson. Alternatively, opt for the sprawling Pool Villa, which offers perfect seclusion and comes complete with a generous supply of fluffy towels. Enjoy a yoga session by the pool and starlit cocktails at the Tree House or re-live the tension-filled pickleball match. Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas offers long-stay packages that promise an extraordinary adventure where the only thing scripted is luxury. Visit the resorts’ website.
Getaway package / Avani+ Mai Khao and Avani+ Khao Lak
For a beach holiday that’s twice as nice, the new “Two Avanis, Twice The Fun” package delivers the laid back tranquillity of Khao Lak and Mai Khao’s vibrant energy rolled into one seamless experience that takes care of everything from accommodation to transfers. The adventure starts at Avani+ Mai Khao Phuket where chic suites and designer villas promise stylish stays with all the mod-cons, including a kitchenette and laundry facilities. The sprawling resort hub with a swimming pool, jacuzzi and swim-up bar takes care of the leisure side of things, while staying active is made easy thanks to on-site tennis, Muay Thai and yoga. Between dreamy spa sessions and Thai cooking classes, guests can explore a world of flavours at the resort’s restaurants. Head north to Avani+ Khao Lak, an adventurer’s playground combining island-hopping expeditions with indoor rock climbing, water sports and jungle trekking. Visit the resorts’ website.
