Category: Bangkok

Jim Thompson, Thailand’s iconic global lifestyle brand signals a new era with the opening of Bangkok’s must-visit landmark the Jim Thompson Heritage & Creative Quarter. Inclusive of the original Jim Thompson House Museum, it features a new “Museum About the Man”, a Home Furnishings Exhibition, a café and a new Iconic Store. Jim Thompson, Thailand’s iconic global lifestyle brand signals a new era with the opening of Bangkok’s must-visit landmark the Jim Thompson Heritage and Creative Quarter.

Local and international visitors will get to soak in the rich history and stunning architecture of what was once the residence of Jim Thompson and explore the beauty of Thai culture, silk traditions and the Thai spirit of innovation as well as discover exhibitions about the life and work of the “Silk King”.

Frank Cancelloni, Group CEO at Jim Thompson explains, “We are excited about this new chapter. This is not just any lifestyle brand; it was founded by an iconic man who revived the Thai silk industry. The project will be 100% completed by April 2023 with the opening of a restaurant, a bar and a multifunctional hall, all reflecting the spirit of Jim Thompson.”

Jim Thompson House Museum

Comprising of 6 teak houses sourced by Jim Thompson from all over Thailand, his residence also became home to an extensive collection of Southeast Asian art. After his disappearance in Malaysia in 1967, his home was carefully preserved and turned into a museum.

Museum About the Man

Drawn from the archives of The James H.W. Thompson Foundation, “The Man Himself” highlights the critical milestones in Thompson’s life, from his early years to the last day that he was seen. The exhibition also charts the journey of Jim Thompson fabrics from Vogue to Broadway and on to becoming Thailand’s only global lifestyle brand.

Home Furnishing Exhibition

‘The Evolving World of Jim Thompson Textiles’ is an exhibition that unveils the story of the Thai Silk Company Limited and the prominent creative figures behind the company’s successes in the textile and fabric world after the mysterious disappearance of Jim Thompson in 1967.

The Iconic Store

Visually stunning, the store offers over 6,000 products and exciting collaborative projects including menswear, womenswear, bags, knick-knacks, accessories, homeware, and exclusive collections only available at this location.

The Jim Thompson Art Center

The Art Center is a place where ideas and stories are shared through creative experiences. It is also a gathering ground for cultural communities to come together, learn, discover and exchange dialogues.

For more information, please visit www.jimthompsonheritagequarter.com

When we first arrived at Pullman Bangkok King Power Hotel, a modern Japanese-styled house nestled in a beautifully landscaped Japanese garden at the heart of the hotel caught our attention. Our hosts then introduced us to Tenko Omakase Bangkok, one of the best Omakase restaurants in the Thai Capital helmed by a young but talented Chef whom we will meet at dinner that evening. We extend the invitation to our readers particularly those who cannot resist quality Japanese omakase served in an unforgettable ambience.

Tenko Omakase Bangkok – Origins Of The Name

Tenko (天狐) is known as the “heavenly fox” in Japanese folklore. Upon the attainment of a thousand years of age, it will gain its ninth tail and be transformed into a divined golden fox – Tenko. This makes the perfect analogy for Chef Goji Kobayashi who has worked hard to cultivate years of culinary and artistry experiences and skills to become Ichinin Mae, which stands for Independent Chef. Chef Goji and his assistant chefs Ken and Aod were already busy preparing for the much anticipated omakase the moment we stepped into the cosy restaurant interiors.

Tenko Omakase Bangkok – More ABout Chef Goji

Fluent in the English language, Chef Goji Kobayashi shared with us that he mastered his traditional Japanese culinary techniques in a Michelin Starred omakase-style restaurant in San Francisco. He loved Asia and wanted to share his love for Japanese fine dining in the region. Bangkok was his preferred city because he loved how cosmopolitan the city is which means he would be able to serve and interact with diners from all over the world.

He is also very particular about the freshness of his ingredients. When he was in Japan, he would make it a point to use seasonal fresh harvests from the Toyosu market in Japan. Now that he is in Bangkok, he goes out of his way to introduce fresh and in-season local and Japanese ingredients to create unique omakase experiences for his diners. That’s him fully focused on creating one of our dishes.

Tenko Omakase Bangkok – Cocktail To Kickstart The Evening

To get our appetite going for the evening, our hosts recommended a stimulating cocktail named Wasabi Sensation which comprises Kizakura sake, fresh lime juice, shoyu sauce and simple syrup. Given individuals’ differing preferences on their level of wasabi, it was placed on the side and can be added based on our personal discretion. I always loved a kick so I added most of mine. It offered a pleasant sting and woke my tastebuds for the coming dishes.

Just as we were sipping our cocktails, the first dish was served! It was a delicate Sesame Tofu garnished with ikura. It was a smooth, tender and mild start to the omakase course.

Next to be served was a young snapper that was beautifully garnished with a seasonal flower. It tasted just as exquisite as it looks.

As we dine, we got to know that all the ceramics and serving ware used were hand-picked in Japan from small artisanal potters and craftsmen which included Shunsuke Tanaka, Takuya Yokoyama and Hideto Kamiizumi. It comprises a spectacular range that included many limited editions or even exclusively hand-made pieces for Tenko.

Besides the food, another enjoyable element of omakase is watching the chefs prepare the food before your eyes. The level of dedication they put into a meal just makes each meal taste so much better.

There was never a dull moment around the counter. New dishes were served the moment we recover from the astonishment and delights that came from the previous ones.

New tools of the trade were introduced throughout which added a theatrical element to the meal.

The freshness of the ingredients consistently emerges as each dish gets presented.

For one or two of the dishes, our chefs playfully request our participation to take the food from their hands.

Otherwise, most will be served on our personal serving plates.

As we come close to the end of the meal, Chef Goji performed his signature charcoal-over-meat grilling. It takes experience and high-quality charcoal to ensure the grilling is timed properly and none of the ashes touches the meat. It was an amazing display of skills and showmanship.

Our lead in dessert came in the form of an innocent sushi roll.

The sweet finale to the evening came in a delectable set of three.

Tenko Omakase Bangkok – Reserve Your Visit

We enjoyed Chef Goji’s delicious and gorgeous premium 16-course Omakase. It was an unforgettable experience. If you are heading to Bangkok soon, remember to make a reservation in advance to avoid disappointment.

Address: 8 2 Rang Nam Alley, Thanon Phaya Thai, Khet Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand | Opening Hours: Wednesday – Friday at 12.00 – 14.00 hrs. Saturday – Sunday at 11.00 hrs. and 12.30 hrs. Dinner Course 2 Rounds at 18.00 hrs. and 20.00 hrs | Facebook: tenkobangkok | Instagram: @tenkobangkok 

During our recent stay at Pullman Bangkok King Power, we were thrilled to have the chance to experience Tenshino Bangkok, a chic innovative Japanese restaurant with a touch of bohemian chic, located on the 2nd floor of the hotel. Helmed by Chef Pan, Kwanchanok Srithawatchara who commanded over 15 years of culinary experience, including 5 years in a Japanese restaurant inspired by French and Japanese cuisine, formulated the perfect balance and combination of Asian-European produce into innovative dishes. Let us walk you through one of our best gourmet journeys in the Thai capital.

Tenshino Bangkok – The Space

Designed with a French restaurant and the Japanese tradition for natural materials and textiles in mind, Tenshino features a rich design scheme with bold colours and at times quirky elements to create excitement and a hint of surprise. The restaurant is divided into five main sections, each with a slightly different aesthetic.

As soon as guests enter the restaurant, they are greeted by a 5-metre communal table set in a boldly appointed space decorated with glass, bamboo, copper touches and delicate wallpaper with a faded peacock print with gold embellishments.

The bar area features curved booths and bistro-style marbled tables. The bar, where we got to savour a pre-dinner drink, is made of green granite and clad with green tiles with brass detailing.

Behind the bar, we found a more intimate dining area, called The Dining Room. Semi-enclosed by woven rattan screens, it is designed for private dinners and features two 8-person teakwood tables that can be put together for larger groups. Wood panelling, velvet upholstery, crystal chandeliers and beautiful Japanese-inspired wallpaper lend The Dining Room sophistication and an air of luxury.

With so many instagrammable spots, it was tough picking where to have our dinner. Eventually, we decided to go for the cosy, half-circle lounge chair seats that are framed by beautifully decked art walls.

Tenshino Bangkok – The Menu

The restaurant serves innovative Japanese cuisine using the freshest ingredients imported directly from Japan and France. The menu features a range of innovative Japanese canapes, starters, raw seafood, mains, sides and desserts, and is guided by the desire to create a social dining experience. We started our dinner with 2 mocktails. Kendama (250 baht) was a deliciously sweet mocktail that is pleasing to both the eye and anyone who desires a sugar rush.

The Sparkling Yuzu Sunset (250 baht) was a refreshing alternative which really perked us up after a long day of shopping.

It did not take long before our attentive hostess served our starters.

Our first starter was Lobster Salad, Yuzu Kocho Dressing (1,250 Baht). We love that the salad was not too tangy like most Japanese salads. Instead, it offered more of a soy flavour which goes well with the lobster meat. Our photo did not give justice to the generous portions of lobster meat that laid the foundation of the salad.

Next to be served was the Tuna Ceviche (1,150 baht). It offered a gentle and smooth morsel. The combination of the ingredients was fantastic. We got to taste fresh tuna accompanied by a burst of flavours from ikura and seaweed for an overall strong umami taste.

Our final starter Uni Otoro Caviar (990 baht) was my personal favourite. The Uni was very fresh, and creamy and does not have a strong fish aroma. It paired very well with the Otoro. The only pity was that we cannot really taste the caviar, it could have been overpowered by the strong flavours. We love the touch of luxury with gold foil garnish.

After our starters, we are ready for our mains!

We got the Iberico Pluma (890 baht) which required us to drizzle the sauce as a finishing touch to the dish. Served with rice, poached egg and pickled ginger, the pork was pleasantly flavourful and distinctively more chewy than what we are used to in Singapore.

Our final main – Wagyu Tenderloin ( $1,550 baht) was truly a piece of art.

We never expected the pairing of the wagyu beef with the beer marrow to be such an explosive combination of flavours. We recommend spreading the bone marrow with sprinkles of roasted garlic and edamame on each bite of your beef steak for the intended effect.

We ended our meal with satisfying desserts.

Tenshino Bangkok – Make A Reservation

Overall, we really enjoyed the drinks, dishes and ambience at Tenshino. The service was impeccable and we look forward to wine and dine in the restaurant again. To book your own culinary experience with them, you can email them via H6323-FB5@ACCOR.COM or call +66 2 680 9999. You can also follow them on Facebook and Instagram!

King Power Mahanakhon is Thailand’s newest architectural landmark in 2022. Nested in the heart of Bangkok’s central business district at Chong Nonsi BTS station, it was conceived to reflect the ambition and vibrancy of one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Designed by an award-winning architect, King Power Mahanakhon houses the Ritz-Carlton Residence, The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon, FIRSTER and King Power Mahanakhon SkyWalk – a state-of-the-art observation deck boasting the city’s most epic views at 314 meters. At 78 levels, King Power Mahanakhon is recognized as Thailand’s Tallest Building (2016 – 2018), certified by the Council of Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat in April 2016.

Join us as we experienced the famed King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk. The excitement starts once we passed through its entrance. The world’s 1st self-controlled ParadropVR™ City Flyer was also available for a price on the ground floor of the building. The Mahanakhon Sky Ride combines self-controlled physical movement with free-roam virtual reality content that delivers a highly realistic and exciting paragliding sensation. After purchasing tickets, we proceeded to a souvenir photo area and elevator boarding area.

For the safety of its building residents and members of the public, security checks were carefully conducted for all visitors to the King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk.

King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk – Digital Corridor

We were then channelled into a corridor of digital walls which showcased some of the unique and interesting culture and experiences that Thailand is famous for.

King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk – Multimedia Elevators

To bring us up to 74th floor in less than 50 seconds, we will be taking Thailand’s fastest elevators! Have your phones and eyes on standby and get ready to be surprised. The interior walls of the elevators will be transformed into digital screens to bring you on a mesmerising journey on your way up and later down the building.

On the 74th floor, you get to view a 360-degree panoramic view from the indoor observation area. We also got to try out the interactive screens and powerful binoculars which helped us learn about Bangkok’s key landmark destinations. You can also send postcards to your loved ones from Bangkok’s highest postbox here!

When we were there, there was also a small exhibition. Exhibitions change periodically and you may get to see another during your visit.

King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk – Hydraulic Glass Lift

To whisk us up to the outdoor 360-degree Observation Deck, we took the Hydraulic Glass Lift which offers us panoramic views of the space and the city.

King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk – Outdoor Observation Area

As soon as you step out of the elevator, we were greeted by a bright yellow structure which houses The Peak and Thailand’s highest rooftop bar – Beach Sky Bar. We are now 314 meters above ground level.

We ventured pass some folks who are chilling around the Sky Beach Bar but our eyes were drawn to the glass tray of the SkyWalk!

King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk – Glass Tray Experience

Standing at the glass trays at the height of 310 meters from the 78th floor is not for the faint-hearted. While the view is gorgeous, it takes substantial courage to stand on the glass tray itself.

Before entering the glass tray, we had to put protective covers over our shoes. Cameras, phones and other loose items are also not allowed to be brought along. Any photos and videos that need to be taken must be done by a friend outside the glass tray. This means to get the photos or videos you want, you cannot be visiting alone.

Despite knowing that you are walking on strong, stable and perfectly safe clear glass, our first step was terribly daunting. To get through this, we continuously reassured ourselves, don’t think too much and just took the first step out!

Once you are on the Mahanakhon SkyWalk, we dare you to look down at the sights below and give yourself a pat on the back that you managed to overcome the fear of heights. Or you can just lie on your back and bask in the glory.

King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk – The Peak Awaits

After checking out the glass tray, it’s time to head up to The Peak for the ultimate 360-degree view of the Thai capital.

The night scenery of Bangkok is breathtaking from all angles.

This is the view that you will probably if you are arriving or departing by a plane over the city. But gone are the constraints of the cabin windows, we were now taking in the full spectacular view while enjoying the light evening breeze.

Before you leave, remember to take a photo on the steps of The Peak. You can capture yourself against the glittering city backdrop.

King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk – Thai Taste Hub Mahanakhon CUBE

If you are feeling hungry after your visit, you can drop by Thai Taste Hub Mahanakhon CUBE which is located within the same building. Just get your pre-paid card and you are ready to experience the city’s street food with a curated list of 12 restaurants including a mix of legendary and Michelin-recommended venues. Showcasing the work of five local Thai artists, the venue is a celebration of Thailand’s art and culinary scene.

King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk – Plan Your Visit

We recommend visiting the Mahanakhon SkyWalk around sunset. It allows you to see Bangkok in daylight and also the beautiful lights that come on when it gets dark. To avoid delays due to crowds, come much earlier before sunset.

Address: 114 Narathiwas Ratchanakarin Rd., Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok Thailand | How To Go: BTS Skytrain via Chong Nonsi Station, Exit 3. Limited parking is available. | Opening Hours: 10am to 12 Midnight | Prices: 880 Baht (Adult) & 250 Baht (Children & Senior) | Website: kingpowermahanakhon.co.th | Facebook: KingPowerMahanakhon | Instagram: kingpowermahanakhon 

NaRaYa Silk announces the opening of a new flagship store – NaRaYa Silk Bangkok. There will be an opening special discount of up to 30% starting from June 1st to July 3rd, 2022. Located in Siam Paragon, a bustling shopping complex in the centre of Bangkok, with an exclusive collection featuring silk clothing and accessories designed for everyday wear, the store spans 96 square meters.

With over 33 years of experience, NaRaYa has established itself as one of Asia’s leading Thai brands, renowned for its uniquely designed handbags made from various types of fabrics. NaRaYa’s success has made it possible to showcase the elegance and artistry of Thai silk on the global stage.

“We are very excited to unveil our new flagship store and to welcome our customers to our Siam Paragon branch. At NaRaYa Silk, we produce ready-to-wear silk clothing and accessories designed for everyday wear with modern designs and unique weaving techniques. Our goal is to offer silk clothing and accessories that is accessible to everyone,” said Ms Wasna Roongsaenthong, President of NaRaYa (Narai Intertrade Co,.Ltd). Ms Wasna continues, “We take great pride in bringing Thai products to the global stage, helping to promote Thai craftsmanship to the world, and truly creating sustainable jobs for our people.” 

NaRaYa Silk’s products are designed to look modern and suitable for all ages. This collection consists of clothes, bags, and scarves with brightly colored designs and carefully selected silk patterns.  At NaRaYa Silk, all the items are meticulously crafted by skilled artisans, to create statement pieces that are affordable, valuable, and timeless while helping support the local communities.

You can shop now at NaRaYa Silk, Siam Paragon Branch, 3rd floor or see more details about NaRaYa Silk at www.narayasilk.com

Channelling the elegance of a well-heeled traveller with a soft spot for la sua preferita Italy, Ms Jigger comes to life as a narrative-driven cocktail bar and restaurant. As the connoisseur of curiosities, the venue conjures up inventive cocktail flavours and dining experiences at Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok in Langsuan, the first property under IHG’s luxury boutique brand in South East Asia.

“Every Kimpton restaurant and bar is created to be warm, welcoming and inspiring with incredible cuisine and forward-thinking cocktails. Whether it is menus that celebrate organic, local ingredients, artisanal wine and cocktails programmes, or thoughtfully-appointed interiors with stylish decor, no two venues are ever alike. What unites them is the Kimpton commitment to deliver its heartfelt, human connections, making our award-winning restaurants beloved the world over.” said Patrick Both, General Manager, Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok.

The rich, warm aromas of baking dough crusts, fresh oregano and melted cheese waft through the evening air, a precursor to the tantalising Cicchetti that provide delicious accompaniment to Ms Jigger’s artful drink selection. In the kitchen, famed Italian chef Danilo Aiassa combines the freshest local ingredients with traditional culinary techniques and influences from Piedmont in northwest Italy, where he was born and raised, to create tantalising fare bursting with authentic Italian flavours. In the kitchen as much as he is in the restaurant, Chef Danilo feeds and fuels the ambience with the passion for the food he creates. Made for sharing amongst friends, each dish comes in small tasting portions.

“The vision for Ms Jigger is that of adventure, intrigue and prandial pleasure. From the Kimpton philosophy of sourcing locally to using the freshest of ingredients to make authentic Italian cichettis just right for sharing, the intimate setting of Ms Jigger flows all the way down to the great food and story-driven cocktails” said Danilo Aiassa, Head Chef, Ms Jigger, Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok.

Ms Jigger Bangkok – The Bites

In true Venetian fashion, whet the appetite with a refreshing bruschetta starter of Homemade Ricotta Spianata Romana, toasted sourdough bread slathered with housemade Ricotta cheese, spicy salami and fresh chopped parsley, chased by a crisp Italian white. As conversations take a livelier turn, nibble on Polpette al Sugo Piccante con Pecorino Roman, moreish meatballs with spicy tomato sauce and pecorino cheese, or Arancini Funghi Selvatici e Tartufo, a crispy treat of risotto rice with a hidden kick of wild mushrooms and black truffles in every bite.

Alternatively, select the 24-Month Parma Ham, an authentic hand-tossed pizza served with creamy mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and succulent slices of parma ham, aged for 24 months for a richer, more complex flavour and perfect for sharing.

Ms Jigger Bangkok – The Bar

In the bar, led by Thai-French head bartender Lorianne Spach, the bar crew are embodiments of Ms.Jigger’s cosmopolitan spirit. Together, they are responsible for creating and delivering exquisite cocktails that immerse drinkers in the stories held within their glasses. The bar’s premium artisanal ice programme, where the crew uses a Clinebell to create pure, diamond-clear ice that is harder and colder than regular ice, elevates the flavours and aesthetics of the cocktails.

The cocktail menu is styled after a vintage map describing the tale behind each captivating concoction. The Terra-Abruzzo paints a dreamy picture of a slow, barefoot wander through an ancestral Italian vineyard; its aromatic blend of Alpine gin, pine liqueur, green chartreuse, rosemary and raspberry oleo evoke memories of late summer days and sun-warmed skin. Meanwhile, familiar cocktails are offered Shaken (lighter, usually with citrus) or Stirred (more spirit-forward).

Bespoke, single-batch and rare spirits collected from around the world line the bar’s back shelves which double up as the ‘Spirits Library’, while a floor-to-ceiling wine cooler brimming with organic, biodynamic and Italian wines takes centre stage under the gaze of the resident sommelier. Elegant spirit and cocktail Tableside Trolleys glide across hardwood floors to deliver the quintessential bar experience to you, while larger carafes and punch bowls serve groups cocooned within the private terrace.

Ms Jigger Bangkok – Make A Date

Ms.Jigger is open from 11.30am to 2.30pm for lunch and from 5:30pm to midnight for dinner, Monday to Sunday (closed on Tuesdays). Reservations can be made at +66 (0)2 056 9999 or email taste.kimptonmaalai@ihg.com. For more information, visit www.kimptonmaalaibangkok.com/bangkok-restaurants/ms-jigger.

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts brings the romantic charms of a Tuscan country estate to the biodiverse ecological wonderland of Khao Yai with Mövenpick Resort Khao Yai. Located less than a three-hour drive from Bangkok on the fringes of the Khao Yai National Park, the 112-room resort is the ideal getaway for families, friends and couples looking to indulge in a castle-style experience surrounded by a mountainous landscape.

Mövenpick Resort Khao Yai – Welcome To Tuscan Countryside Charms

Khao Yai has long been known as a countryside getaway just a short drive from Bangkok. In addition to the lush Khao Yai National Park – the country’s oldest, and part of the UNESCO World Heritage-protected forest complex – the area is home to many points of interest, including Chokchai Farm, Jim Thompson Farm, GranMonte Vineyard and Winery, PB Valley Khao Yai Winery, and Heaw Narok Waterfall.

The stunning landscape is complemented by the hotel’s unique Tuscan architecture and spacious rooms are decorated in the Renaissance and Modern Baroque styles. The resort features 62 guestrooms, ranging from a 45 square metre Deluxe Room to the grand three-bedroom Penthouse as well as 50 villas, many with garden and pool views reminiscent of Italy, perfect for friends and families travelling together. Ideal for intimate events and large groups, the palatial five-bedroom pool villa offers a luxurious sanctuary immersed in nature. All guest rooms overlook the sweeping fairways of the golf course and a serene European garden.

“The opening of Mövenpick Resort Khao Yai represents our 10^th Mövenpick address in Thailand. Home to a rich National Park, Khao Yai has long been a favoured getaway for Bangkok residents and domestic travellers seeking an escape into nature. With the opening of our first hotel here, we are looking forward to showcasing the 70-year culinary legacy of the Mövenpick brand, and delivering a guest experience that is authentic and memorable, through a sustainable and responsible approach,” said Patrick Basset, Chief Operating Officer of Accor, Upper Southeast & Northeast Asia and the Maldives.

Mövenpick Resort Khao Yai – Fresh Dining With A View

The hotel offers an all-day dining experience at Flavours of Khao Yai with a choice of indoor and alfresco seating where diners can enjoy an unobstructed mountain view alongside a range of delectable local and international cuisine. For a relaxing dining experience drawing on the bucolic charms of the natural surroundings, Castleton Café is styled as a green café and embodies the tranquil atmosphere of the resort. Guests can enjoy afternoon tea in the mountains and a variety of refreshments including a farm-to-table organic salad with fresh produce from the onsite organic vegetable farm.

Mövenpick Resort Khao Yai – Facilities & Programmes

Leisure facilities include a swimming pool and an 18-hole golf course with preferential rates for in-house guests. Children are kept entertained at the My Ozone Animal Club, where they have the opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of farm animals including ponies, horses, chickens, rabbits, sheep and goats.

Providing optimal wellness with health-recovery programmes, Panacee Wellness Khao Yai offers guests the opportunity to optimize their strength, energy, and holistic wellness with a range of spa treatments to relieve stress inside-out, delivered by the spa’s wellness experts. Guest can choose from a selection of holistic health check-ups, vitality (anti-ageing) therapies, hair and facial detox treatments.

The stunning European-like ambience lends itself to spectacular events, including wedding parties and pre-wedding photoshoots. Located on the ground floor near the lobby area and restaurant, Ozone Hall can accommodate 120 guests in theatre style, or 200 guests for cocktail parties.

Mövenpick Resort Khao Yai is located at 334 Moo 6, T. Wang Sai, A. Pak Chong, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130. For more information, visit www.movenpick.com.

Taking inspiration from a nostalgic backyard barbecue, Bar.Yard At Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok spins up a modern day-to-night urban rooftop garden and bar on the 40th floor. Elevating the rooftop bar concept, you can enjoy a repertoire of playful tropical cocktails, comfort-led classic barbecue menu featuring locally sourced farm-to-table grills, and a casual, lively atmosphere in the outdoor venue with a view, sheltered so rain is never an issue, framing well-known DJs against the verdant backdrop of Lumphini Park in the heart of central Bangkok, Langsuan.

“Kimpton^® Hotels & Restaurants will open Bar.Yard at Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok as its latest bar under the brand globally. Renowned for its award-winning, seasonally-inspired restaurants and bars, the venue launch is part of our ramp up towards the opening of the first Kimpton hotel in South East Asia slated for October 2020. The new hotel under IHG’s luxury boutique brand will offer Kimpton’s signature perks including the brand’s industry-leading pet-friendly attitude, and an approachable luxury experience fueled by a team who champions heartfelt human connections,” said Patrick Both, General Manager, Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok. 

Daytime at Bar.Yard presents a bright, breezy haven of lush greenery space designed by global architectural design firm Hassell, much like an oasis beneath the clouds where you can unwind to upbeat urban electronic music with tropical- and tiki-influenced cocktails and satisfying, comfort-led classic barbecues. As afternoon fades to night, the rooftop party switches up the tempo while the Bangkok skyline glitters below.

“Every Kimpton restaurant and bar is created independent from the hotel, providing a space that is warm, welcoming and inspiring with incredible cuisine and forward-thinking cocktails. Bar.Yard is our re-imagination of a backyard BBQ, with all associated elements elevated to create an immersive guest experience, including the superlative view from the 40^th floor of the hotel. We focus on incorporating local elements into the restaurant experience – from decor to sourcing ingredients and trends reflective of our location here in Thailand,” said Justin Dunne, General Manager, Restaurants and Bars, Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok.

The cocktail-centric drinks menu is crafted by Aaron J Feder, Beverage & Bars Manager. His focus on creating perfect blends is evident in the stories from behind the bar – sampling multiple lime varieties and at least 27 varieties of pineapples to create Bar.Yard’s signature drinks. Tropical and tiki influences feature heavily across the menu, with highlights like The Queens Group Pineapple, a tequila-based showstopper blended with zesty lime and pink grapefruit, a splash of apple brandy and juice of the Queens Group Pineapple, a local variety from Phuket known for its complex, honeyed flavour profile;

The Brown Coconut combines smoky mezcal, fragrant Thai coconut toasted to perfection and sweet, earthy hazelnut for a delicious and warming rendition of beloved tropical flavours. Finally, a range of local and international craft beers, wines, classic tiki cocktails and Champagne round off the list to satisfy every palate.

Helming the grill is Executive Chef Lamberto Valdez Lara, who reinvigorates the classic barbecue with a variety of signature, seasonal farm-to-plate, barbecue-style dishes such as slow-cooked beef briskets, smoked ribs and skewers,

grilled fresh-caught prawns and casual sharing platters for larger parties, alongside a selection of succulent mains: charcoal-grilled burgers, smoked chicken quesadillas, and seared fish tacos.

Those with a sweet tooth will also look forward to Bar.Yard’s indulging desserts, the decadent Brownie Block Party and Fire & Ice S’Mores, and the crisp and sweet Apple Hand Pies.

Music is the soul of Bar.Yard and a curated playlist has been designed specifically for the venue. Patrons can expect an exciting lineup of local and international DJs, playing everything from neo-soul and electro-funk to contemporary hip hop and disco. Kimpton Off The Record, the brand’s global live music series, will also be launched with a local twist in the coming months.

Bar.Yard is open from 4pm until midnight, every Thursday to Sunday. Reservations can be made at +66 (0)2 056 9999 or via email at taste.kimptonmaalai@ihg.com. For more information, visit www.kimptonmaalaibangkok.com/bangkok-restaurants/bar-yard.

Newly opened Villa de Pranakorn, the only luxury boutique hotel in Bangkok’s historic Sam Yot district, has just become a member of Relais & Châteaux, the leading global hotel and restaurant association. Villa de Pranakorn is the first hotel to join their collection in the country’s capital. Its restaurant – Restaurant Sühring is the other member of Relais & Châteaux in Bangkok.

Villa de Pranakorn – New Member Of Relais & Châteaux

Known for its exclusivity, Relais & Châteaux is often compared to the hotel industry’s Michelin rating. Established in 1954, the brand has since aspired to offer the finest in local offerings from independently run properties and restaurants across the world. Relais & Châteaux members have a driving desire to protect and promote the richness and diversity of the world’s cuisine and traditions of hospitality. They are committed to preserving local heritage and the environment, as encompassed in the Charter presented to UNESCO in November 2014.

“We are committed to continually offer luxury hospitality and local anchorage in unique places and as such are extremely excited for this partnership with Villa de Pranakorn. This first hotel in Bangkok in our collection, perfectly located in the historic district of the city, definitely offers a delicious Thai immersion for our guests. In a few words, history, food and culture come together elegantly at Villa de Pranakorn,” said Philippe Gombert, President of Relais & Châteaux. 

Villa de Pranakorn – Opening In Historic Sam Yot, Bangkok

Having officially opened its doors to guests in February, this intimate 47-key hotel provides the perfect base to escape the hustle and bustle of this 21st Century metropolis. Nestled in the Thai capital’s captivating old quarter, Villa de Pranakorn blends a refined urban style and luxury amenities with Thailand’s rich heritage, culture and cuisine. Set around an open-air courtyard pool, the hotel features an urban, chic, minimalist design inspired by the area’s Sino-Portuguese architecture.

“It gives us great pleasure to join the Relais & Châteaux portfolio of worldwide properties known for their unique local offerings. A few weeks after our opening, this new milestone acknowledges the charm of our architecture, our marvellous location and the talents of our staff and of our chef in particular. From Sam Yot historic district, Villa de Pranakorn is the ideal luxury accommodation to soak up all the excitement of the Thai capital and to rest in style,” said Erik Lannge, the hotel’s General Manager.

Villa de Pranakorn – Accommodations & Facilities

Villa de Pranakorn features a choice of accommodation for every occasion, from solo-friendly Superior Rooms to couple-focused Premium and Grand Deluxe Rooms, all the way up to the luxurious Mahachai and Pranakorn Suites.

Every room is equipped with contemporary amenities and adorned with a modern yet understated design and images of old Bangkok. Comfortable beds, rain showers and complimentary Wi-Fi ensure that guests can stay well-rested, refreshed and fully connected throughout their stay, and some rooms even offer standalone or circular bathtubs. With more space to chill out and lounge about in, the Premium room comes with even more perks including a chic living area and walk-in wardrobe.

Complimented by a discreet and attentive staff, Villa de Pranakorn offers the perfect balance to the city’s boundless energy. Other facilities include a lobby and pool bar, courtyard pool, treatment room, gym and most notably, an Ancestral Hall unique to space.

Villa de Pranakorn – Tradition Taste With Creative Twist

Circling back to the ground floor, the Samranraj Cuisine restaurant pays homage to the owner’s ancestors who arrived from southern China in the early 20th century. Offering a journey between past and present, it combines traditional recipes with exciting culinary experimentation.

Villa de Pranakorn – Committed To Plastic-free Future

Villa de Pranakorn is committed to a plastic-free future. Working with the local eco-friendly company, Panpuri, in-room guest amenities are made from bamboo or packed in stone paper. The hotel also works with Nordaq, a water filtration company, to produce its own still drinking water onsite. This enables every guest to refill their own glass water bottle free-of-charge during their stay, rather than using harmful plastic versions. Every room will be equipped with two complimentary water bottles – one still and one sparkling.

To experience a new era of hospitality in old Bangkok, visit www.villadepranakorn.com.