Publication Date : 01-05-2013
Decorated rather like something out of 'Alice in Wonderland', the Book Shop in Bangkok is a great mix of surreal interiors and amazing food
Thonglor has long been one of Bangkok's most happening areas and now it's being joined in the fun and trendy stakes by Sukhumvit Soi 38 just across the street. Already home to the famous Face Bar, late last year it welcomed upmarket eatery The Book Shop,
Tucked away in the luxurious Ashton Condo complex, The Book Shop looks like a simple, urban cafe from the outside. But appearances are deceiving: step inside and you'll feel as if you've beamed up into a magical library light years away from reality. The interior design was supervised by Ashley Sutton, who wowed Bangkok drinkers with Iron Fairies and he serves up distorted bookshelves, (again) a staircase leading nowhere, warped walls and flying books with an "Alice in Wonderful" vibe.
Of course The Book Shop is not really a reading room or a library though it does make you think how books can take you places without hopping on a plane or leaving your spot - just let your mind wonder. There is no live band or live DJ, only lulling "popsanova" tunes, so it is a decent space to sit back, relax and socialise with friends.
Not only the setting is inspiring but the food and drinks are also very imaginative. The menu, which they call "The Book Shop-style food", is not very extensive but it is substantial. Whet your appetite with waffle cones and spicy salmon tartare (220 baht or about US$7.60) - the kick comes from the chilli and lime jellies. If you prefer something milder, get a plate of grilled Portobello mushroom topped with truffle sauce, pine nuts, rocket and bacon (190 baht/$6.60).
Main dishes include a selection of beef, seafood, pork and chicken. The chef's recommendation is savoury and fresh seared scallop with lemon butter garlic sauce and balsamic reduction on a bed of greens (320 baht/$11) allowing you to munch on the mildly cooked scallops and fresh, crunchy greens simultaneously. Meat fans can opt for lamb ragu with penne (250 baht/$8.60), which is topped with thickly shaved Parmesan and crunchy edamame beans.
If you crave something a little more exotic, order the grilled African chicken skewers with grilled pineapple and tortilla chips (190 baht). Somewhat similar to Jamaican jerk chicken, the poultry is laden with assorted herbs and spices before being grilled. And it's not as spicy as the colour might suggest. Bite
into the juicy, smoked pineapple to wash it down.
The signature cocktails are even more imaginative than the food. Concocted by renowned mixologist Joseph Boroski, each recipe is inspired by books, authors and literature. Ranging from soft to hardcore, you can begin with the sweet and fragrant Romance Novel (290 baht/$10) which is a mixture of fresh strawberry, rum, jasmine syrup and lime. For a more sombre, mysterious mood, get an Edgar Allan Poe at 290 baht with vodka, fresh citrus, palm sugar and pink grapefruit reduction. Sip carefully, this cocktail can make your head spin!
READ WHILE YOU SIP
The Book Shop is located at Ashton Condo, Sukhumvit Soi 38 close to Thonglor BTS. It's open daily from 11am till midnight. Call +66 (02) 187 4949.
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