Guru's Weekly Buzz: Aug 4

Guru by Bangkok Post's pick of the most exciting products, activities, food and travel to indulge in.

STUFF

Smart BLDC Jet Hair Dryer / Lesasha

Lesasha, the hairstyling tool brand, has launched the “Smart BLDC Jet Hair Dryer”, a compact hair dryer, which is lightweight but powerful, and the Smart Hybrid Hair Crimper, a portable hair crimper with a new design and small crimping plates, perfect for hair styling without damaging the hair. The tools are designed to suit every hair condition for everyone. The Smart BLDC Jet Hair Dryer is priced at B8,900 and the Smart Hybrid Hair Crimpern is priced at B1,490. Visit lesasha.com.

Disney100 x H&M / H&M

As this year is Disney's centennial, H&M is celebrating the occasion with a collab streetwear collection with artist Trevor Andrew. Why him, you ask? Andrew, formerly pro snowboarder turned multi-disciplinary artist, is known as the man behind the street art tag GucciGhost. More importantly, he's a life-long admirer of Disney. Inspired by Andrew’s love of Disney and street art, the collection has a relaxed feel and boasts several Disney characters, all-over prints, and Andrew’s signature symbols, such as the ghost and the flying egg. Sweatshirts, hoodies, T-shirts, shirts and long-sleeved polo shirts come in oversized and relaxed fits. On top of that, the drop offers must-have accessories like caps, socks and boxer shorts. Moreover, the collection fittingly features H&M’s first-ever limited-edition skateboards, also with unique artwork by Andrew, who is an avid skateboarder. The skateboard has a seven-layer maple plywood deck that measures 31in. long and 8in. wide. One style has a wordmark Disney logo hand painted by Andrew, the other style has the iconic Disney characters. The collection drops at th.hm.com and in stores.

Disney x Aldo 100th Anniversary Collection / Aldo

Leading global fashion footwear and accessories brand, Aldo, proudly launches the limited-edition Disney x Aldo 100th Anniversary Collection. The two-part collection commemorating Disney's centennial kicks off with a bespoke fall capsule, launched yesterday, with a limited-edition holiday-inspired drop coming in November. The first batch is titled “Disney x Aldo: Mickey and Friends” and includes a joyful assortment of footwear, handbags and accessories that feature novelty branding and bespoke prints, encouraging customers to take a whimsical journey to Disney’s beginnings. These two drops will mark the 6th and 7th collaborations between Disney and Aldo, with previous capsule launches including the beloved Cinderella Collection and the Princess Collection, among others since the start of the partnership in 2019. The new drop is available at four Aldo exclusive stores at Central World, Icon Siam, Central Pattaya, and Central Phuket.

JOIN

#FindTheCocktailFestival / Find The Locker Room / Until Aug 28

Find The Locker Room in Thong Lor is celebrating six years of being in business with the “#FindTheCocktailFestival” throughout August. They are inviting their Asia’s 50 Best Bar friends to celebrate and do guestshifts. On Aug 15, Room By Le Kief, Moon Rock will takeover with bartenders Seven Yi and Yi-Che Liao mixing drinks. On Aug 16, it will be The Public House with bartender William Wu. On Aug 23, The Bellwood showcases bartenders Atsushi Suzuki and Ayaka Terai. On Aug 24, #FindTheLockerRoom will have “Founder’s Night” with Colin Chia, Hidetsugu Ueno, Nick Wu, Ronnaporn Kanivichaporn and Chennarong Bhumichitr behind the bar. To end the celebrations on Aug 28, Dr. Stravinsky’s Cesar Montilla will takeover. Call 098-287-1898 or visit fb.com/FindTheLockerRoom.

Cocktail collab / Zuma Bangkok / Aug 9

Guest bartenders Nikita Matveev and Alvin Lee from The Old Man Hong Kong, No.47 on the Asia 50 Best Bars 2023 list will be taking over Zuma Bangkok on Aug 9 for one night. They will create four special drinks, three from their very innovative latest list and one inspired by Zuma Bangkok's latest “Japanese Garden” menu. From 8-11pm, expect the tipples to flow with each drink reflecting the endless innovation of the mixologists. All four special drinks will be priced at B480++. Call 02-111-8999 or visit zumarestaurant.com.

Special guest shift / Havana Social / Aug 10

Havana Social on Sukhumvit 11 will host Benjawan, also known as Air, from the renowned Kilik Social Club on Aug 10 from 8-11pm. As a master mixologist with nearly a decade of experience, Air has made a name for herself in the industry through her unparalleled passion for mixology. She is celebrated for her expertise in sourcing uncommon ingredients and treating them with utmost respect to bring out the best quality in her cocktails. In addition to her mixology skills, Air's culinary and bakery background enables her to create unique flavour combinations, captivating the senses of every guest. Visit sevn.ly/xNeAFgkU or fb.me/e/3J5Crrq5z.

Collecting Art 101 by The Art Haus / River City Bangkok / Aug 5

Those who're interested in becoming an art collector can join this introductory yet comprehensive talk from three perspectives namely the collector, artist and auction house. The panel consists of art collector Pakpoom Tengamnuay, art collector Rvisra Chirathivat, artist Yuree Kensaku and auction house rep Muanfun Sirikorn Kunawong. The talk will take place from 3-4pm at RCB Forum, 2nd Floor, River City Bangkok on Charoen Krung 24. Register at forms.gle/g92fPWVtBQvjc2A89.

I Am Colour / Public House / Aug 5-18

Urban Collectibles / Public House / Aug 11-13

"I Am Colour" is the latest solo show by Surachet Preaksawunprasut, who celebrates the beauty and diversity of colours through his unique perspective in the form of contemporary and abstract paintings. His previous exhibitions include "Long Khong" at Art Fund Studio, Chiang Mai University. The opening night is tomorrow at 7pm.

Public House is hosting two overlapping art events as "Urban Collectibles" will return to Public House from Aug 11-13. Get ready to be captivated by a dazzling array of mind-blowing original artworks on canvas, as well as an extensive collection of hard-to-find Louis Vuitton trunks and limited-edition art toys. These extraordinary pieces have been carefully curated by both local and international urban artists and collectors who are constantly pushing the boundaries of creativity. The lineup of participants includes galleries such as Gallery Benetti and Street Star Gallery as well as artists such as Luck Maisalee and Lolay. Artworks by Narayan from the Philippines, Art Gyeonggi from Korea and Giles Ryder from Australia are also featured. A specially curated room showcasing many rare vintage Louis Vuitton trunks from De Siam's exclusive collection, as well as an exhibition that defies expectations through the collaboration of Club 21 X Wishulada, and much more. The opening takes place on Aug 11 at 6pm. Public House is on Sukhumvit 31.

STAY

Stay for good / Banyan Tree Krabi

The 72-key resort on Tubkaek Beach, is encouraging guests to immerse in southern Thai culture, by joining weekly excursions to a nearby island renowned for producing beautiful batik fabrics and woodcrafts. The initiative is part of the Banyan Tree Group’s “Stay For Good” programme, aimed at enticing guests to roll up their sleeves and join neighbouring villagers at work. Guests will go on an adventure at the fishing town of Ban Koh Klang on a small island in the middle of the Krabi River, with lunch served on a floating restaurant among the mangroves. Among the daily pursuits, guests can join craftsmen in creating wooden models of longtail boats or spend time with the women of Ban Koh Klang, who are veterans of batik art, mixing organic dyes and painting colourful fabrics. Harvesting rice in the fields with a local family is included as a seasonal activity. Call 075-811-888 or email [email protected].

Enticing deal / Phuket Marriott Resort And Spa, Nai Yang Beach / Until Aug 31

The five-star sanctuary on Phuket's secluded northwest shore, is having a special breakfast promotion this month. The “2 For 1 Breakfast” at The Andaman Kitchen begins with a bountiful buffet breakfast until the end of August. Highlights include freshly baked breads and pastries, fluffy pancakes and waffles, homemade yogurts, a variety of cheeses, a live egg station, local Thai dishes, Indian breakfast favourites and fresh, seasonal fruits, all served in our elegant air-conditioned restaurant or on the alfresco terrace. Call 076-625-555 or visit phuketmarriottnaiyang.com.

Royal Club & Resort Credit Indulgence / The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok / Until Sept 30

The Indulgence Package includes B4,000 worth of daily credit at the Royal Club & Resort, with room rates beginning from B9,000++ per night at the Athenee Hotel Bangkok. The credit can be used at any of the hotel’s four restaurants namely The Allium Bangkok, The Silk Road, The House Of Smooth Curry and Kintsugi By Jeff Ramsey. It's also redeemable at Rain Tree Café, Athenee Spa and for laundry services. The package comes with access to the Royal Club Lounge where guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea and evening cocktails. The booking period is until Sept 30. For reservation, call 02-650-8800, email [email protected] or visit theatheneehotel.com.

Bed & Brew / Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort / Until Sept 17

Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort is inviting craft beer lovers to enjoy a refreshing seafront escape along with Phuket’s best brews. Under the hotel’s signature beverage programme, guests can experience the vibrant taste of Chalawan Pale Ale. This locally-brewed craft beer is available on draft at Sears & Co. Bar and Grill, the casual Thai and international dining destination, the Lobby Bar, the resort’s sophisticated lounge, and the Pool Bar, the tropical swim-up cocktail counter. Guests who book a spacious One-Bedroom Suite at Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort will be treated to two Best Brews on every day of their stay! Rates start from B6,500+++ per night. The offer is valid until Sept 17. Use the promotional code “A5041” and guests must be above the age of 21. Visit fourpointsphuketpatong.com.

Opening offer / Dusit Thani Kyoto / Until Nov 30

Following the opening of Asai Kyoto Shijo in June, Dusit International will continue its expansion in Japan this September with the opening of Dusit Thani Kyoto, in the Hanganji Monzen-machi district. To celebrate its opening, Dusit Thani Kyoto is offering room rates for members of Dusit’s guest recognition programme, Dusit Gold, starting at JPY56,925 (B13,900) per night, inclusive of JPY5,000 hotel credit per person per stay. This offer is valid for booking until Nov 30 for stay dates between Sept 1 to Dec 28. Free signing up to Dusit Gold is available at dusit.com/signup. Visit dusit.com/thanikyoto.

EAT

Grand comeback / Sala Rim Naam

The Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, has finally reopened its legendary Thai restaurant, Sala Rim Naam. The spirit of Sala Rim Naam's kitchen and its warm Thai hospitality has been revived to bring gastronomes and Thai food enthusiasts an elevated and unforgettable dining experience. The reopening promises an enchanting journey filled with the essence of Asian romance, taking inspiration from the popular Korean drama "King The Land”. If you are a fan of this Korean drama and were captivated by the romantic Thai dinner shared by the lead characters, Goo Won and Cheon Sa-rang, along the River Of Kings during their Bangkok holiday, now is your chance to immerse yourself in the same Thai dining extravaganza. Sala Rim Naam aims to recreate the magic of that unforgettable moment, allowing guests to bask in the charm of a truly Thai-inspired romantic dining experience. The restaurant offers a Thai set dinner, B2,800++ per person for a four-course set dinner or B3,400++ per person for a five-course set dinner. Call 02-659-9000, email [email protected] or visit mandarinoriental.com/bangkok.

Black truffle / Clara Bangkok / Until Aug 19

The Italian fine dining restaurant, Clara, is launching an Australian black truffle menu, in addition to their summer and signature menus, until Aug 19. Available as a seven course degustation menu, it is priced at B4,880++. Expect Riccio di mare or Summer brioche with sea urchin and truffle, Homemade pasta, butter and truffle, Sea bass, chanterelle, Vin Santo and black truffle and Sabayone, semi freddo and black truffle. The menu is available for lunch and dinner. Call 083-496-3663, Line: @clarabangkok or visit clarabangkok.com.

Barbeque favourites / Bar.Yard, Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok

The 40th-floor rooftop bar adds more sizzle to the griddle with barbeque from around the world to its menu. Executive chef Lamberto Valdez Lara has recreated international barbeque dishes, with recipes and ingredients from South Korea, Italy, Australia, Poland, Mexico and Madagascar, as well as Thailand. Dishes include Coal-roasted oysters topped with crispy rice vermicelli, chimichurri mayo and ricotta cheese; Smoked burrata over applewood, served with charred cantaloupe and chipotle and honey vinaigrette; and Carne Apache, a tasty Mexican style beef tartare, served with homemade tostadas, to name a few. End the night on a naughty note with Cinnamon-topped baked churros and banana chimichangas with Nutella. Call 02-056-9999 or email [email protected].

Tour de lamb / Scarlett Bangkok / Until Aug 31

As the seasons change, so does the culinary landscape at Scarlett Bangkok. This August, French finesse meets a Mediterranean touch in an exceptional dining experience around the offerings of New Zealand. Featuring 100% natural, free-range, pasture-raised imports from New Zealand’s Lumina Farm, the menu bursts with fresh Mediterranean flavours complemented by a selection of New Zealand wines that can be paired with the menu. The Tour De Lamb menu stars six dishes that highlight various cuts of the grass-fed and antibiotic-free lamb that the acclaimed farm is known for. Aubergine Farcie à l’Agneau (B380++) and Lamb tartare (B650++), Lamb shank (B790++) and Lamb tajine (B880++) make up a few of the dishes. Stars of the tour are the 250g Rack of lamb (B1,200++) and the 1.5kg Lamb shoulder (B1,900++). Scarlett also presents a wine menu with six labels starting from B2,000 per bottle. Call 096-860-7990 or Line: bitly.ws/zaVd.

Signature selection / Pagoda, Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park / Until Oct 15

A new selection of signature dishes by chef Allen, the hotel’s new dim sum master blends the best of Shanghainese and Cantonese dim sum. Chef Allen has crafted five dishes for Pagoda Chinese Restaurant, including Abalone tarts, Deep-fried gyoza with shrimp and asparagus, Steamed scallop, shrimp and spinach dumplings, Deep-fried buns stuffed with pork, sublime shrimp and shiitake mushroom, and Crispy Alaskan king crab dumpling rolls and caviar, available until Oct 15. Chef Allen’s signature dishes are available for lunch, with prices starting from B150++ per dish. Call 02-059-5999 or visit sevn.ly/xLySiiHA.

Summer symphony / Rosewood Bangkok / Until Aug 31

Indulge in seasonal pleasures of “Summer Symphony”, an afternoon tea experience celebrating the vibrant flavours of summer fruits at Lakorn European Brasserie until Aug 31. The tea showcases a medley of sun-kissed fruits, carefully handpicked to create an enticing fusion of flavours and colours. The menu includes Tropical gazpacho with lychee, watermelon, and coconut foam, as well as Poached oyster with Granny Smith, cider cream, green apple, and gold leaf. Executive pastry chef Dustin Baxter taps into memories from his childhood in Michigan, US, where he spent numerous summer days immersed in strawberry patches, carefully selecting fruits even before they reached full ripeness. Working alongside is executive sous chef Frank Wackerhagen, who draws on his fine-dining expertise to craft a savoury menu evoking the essence of the season, from Chicken liver parfait with brioche toast and cherry blossom chutney to Iberico ham with tomato spread and sofritto tart. Diners can opt for a Champagne or a Summer Symphony signature tea cocktail made with Billecart Salmon Champagne, strawberry rhubarb infused white tea, peach and jasmine soda. The afternoon tea can be enjoyed at Lakorn European Brasserie for B2,700++ per set per couple. An additional B1,800++ for two glasses of Billecart Salmon Champagne or two Summer Symphony signature tea cocktails. Call 02-080-0080 or email [email protected].

Seafood and sparkling / Mixo, So/ Bangkok

Everyday is special day with “Seafood & Sparkling” at Mixo, at So/ Bangkok overlooking Lumphini Park. Choose from three delectable sets. The So/ Style set is B2,500 nett for two people and includes oysters, Alaskan king crab, Omega mussel, blue crab, sea prawns and rock lobsters. The Soshi premium, b2,500 nett for two includes a premium mix of sashimi, sushi, nigari and rolls. Nick’s Dozen (13) for B1,200 nett includes 13 French oysters. Make it even more special with two glasses of sparkling wine at B500 nett or B1,300 nett for a bottle. Receive 15% off when booking 24 hours in advance. Call 02-624-0000, email [email protected] or visit bit.ly/42Azhxk.

Themed buffets / Ventisi, Centara Grand at CentralWorld

Ventisi has launched themed buffets where executive chef Andrea Montella curates a selection of dishes using the freshest local and imported ingredients and classic cooking techniques. Experience the ultimate indulgence every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening at Ventisi. The Black Truffle Thursday Night Buffet includes Truffle salmon tartare, Beef tenderloin Wellington with black truffle, Black truffle mushroom soup and more. The Alps Friday Night Buffet is a tribute to dishes with fragrant herbs, flavourful cheeses and succulent meats. Highlights include Tirolean meatloaf, Crispy pork knuckle and Nuermberger and Kasekreiner sausages, among others. The Wagyu Saturday Night Buffet is a carnivore's delight with unlimited seafood and Wagyu beef green curry, Wagyu picanha, Wagyu flank steak and Wagyu beef Neapolitan braciola to name a few. The buffets are priced at B1,590++ per person on Thursdays and Saturdays, and B1,390++ per person on Friday. Call 02-100-6255 or email [email protected].

Guest chef / Rosewood Phuket / Aug 11-12

Guest chefs Karime López and Takahiko ‘Taka’ Kondo from Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura in Florence, Italy, will cook two dinners at Red Sauce at the Rosewood Phuket on Aug 11-12. On both days, the chef duo will also offer a cooking class for four guests per day (B6,000++ per person). Chef López’s and chef Kondo’s journeys have resulted in a culinary interpretation of modern Italian cuisine that they have named “Nuove Memorie" (new memories). The five-course menu includes “The Cannolo that Wants to Become a Cannellone”, “Journey to Mexico”, “Purple Corn Tostada”, “Shining Through” and a Gucci Osteria Chocolate selection. The dinner is priced at B9,000++ with wine pairing. Call 076-356-888 or email [email protected].

Dining promotions / Courtyard By Marriott Phuket Town / Until Aug 31

The stylish hotel in Phuket's vibrant heritage district is launching dining promotions this month. Every weekday, a themed menu will be served at Krua Salad Yai. Savor "Perfect Prawns" on Monday, enjoy a "Taste of Italy" on Tuesday, discover a "Midweek Meat Feast" on Wednesday, and experience "Japanese Delights" on Thursday. Each day is priced at B799++ per person (50% discount for seniors and children below the age of 12 dine for free). The Market Place Buffet will serve scallops this month on Fridays and Saturdays, along with a selection of dishes crafted using the finest ingredients from land and sea. Priced at B1,250 nett per person, including free-flow soft drinks. The “All-You-Can-Eat Breakfast” includes hot steamed dim sum, freshly made pa tong ko, fresh baked pastries and breads, homemade yoghurt, a live egg station, fresh juices and more. Priced at THB499 nett per person. At Talung Lounge, it’s Ladies’ Night every Wednesday from 6-8pm. Groups of four or more girls will be treated to a free bottle of bubbly, while men enjoy 50% off on selected drinks. At Kolae Pool Bar, enjoy Sunday BBQ Brunch, priced at B450 nett per adult, including free-flow soft drinks. Children between the ages of five and 10 get 50% off. The Family Package is priced at B1,125 nett (two adults and two children). Call 076-643-555 or visit courtyardphukettown.com.

New signatures / ABar Rooftop, Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park

ABar Rooftop will transport your taste buds on an intriguing tour of Bangkok with its new collection of 12 signature cocktails. Inspired by the Thai capital’s most historic districts and heritage-rich attractions, each of these creative drinks tells a unique story through its blend of local ingredients, vibrant colours and original presentation. New creations include 60-Baht-Ticket-Or-So, which is inspired by the historic Rama Cinema on Yaowarat Road, and mixes premium spirits with Chinese elements that will take you back to a glamorous bygone era. Import Export is influenced by the Old Custom House in Bang Rak and features a combination of cosmopolitan flavours that highlight the diverse cultures that flowed through this riverside district. Discover them all at prices starting from B400++. Call 02-059-5999 or email [email protected].