Table talk in Bangkok (December 4-10)

Kaburaya, the cult favourite taishu sakaba from Tokyo with more than 100 branches across Japan, brings its lively neighbourhood spirit to Bangkok for a pop-up at Tonchin Ramen. Known for grilled skewers, oden and small plates made for casual drinking, Kaburaya first opened in Ikebukuro in 2002 and quickly became a go-to spot for afterwork crowds looking for easygoing food and quick bites. For this Bangkok appearance the team takes over Tonchin’s kitchen with a focused menu of yakitori, yaiton and classic izakaya dishes. Expect the kind of warm, buzzy atmosphere found in Japan's standing bars, mixed with Tonchin's own energetic ramen house vibe. The pop-up runs later than Tonchin's usual hours, giving diners extra time to snack, sip and enjoy a rare Tokyo crossover in the heart of Chidlom.

Reserve via @tonchinbangkok. Tonchin Ramen, Mercury Ville Chidlom. From December 8, 5pm-11pm

The world famous L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, known as the Sacred Temple of Pizza and immortalised in Eat Pray Love, opens in Bangkok with the same fifth generation recipes served in Naples since 1870. The Bangkok outpost follows locations in New York, London, Tokyo, Dubai and Singapore, showcasing the signature pizza a ruota di carro with its thin soft dough that stretches beyond the plate and a pillowy cornicione baked for just 60 seconds at 485C in a custom Stefano Ferrara oven. Ingredients are sourced directly from Campania and Southern Italy, including San Marzano DOP tomatoes, Agerola mozzarella, Pecorino Romano DOP and Masturzo olive oil, alongside toppings like Cetara anchovies, friarelli, capers and smoked scamorza. Beyond pizza, diners can expect handmade pastas, starters and classic southern Italian desserts served in the new Nextopia zone on the fifth floor of Siam Paragon.

Reserve via allora@damichele.co.th. L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, Siam Paragon 5/F, 11am-10pm

Madame K reveals a full refurb that reshapes both its look and flow, beginning with the bar’s move from the second floor to the ground level for easier access and a more seamless drinking experience. The kitchen now sits upstairs, allowing both floors to be redesigned with a fresh identity that reflects the personality and heritage of Khae, the venue’s namesake and the heart of its concept. The first floor opens as a lively dining room and social hub with a menu that blends Northern Thai comfort from Khae’s hometown of Phayao with classic Singaporean dishes from Gavin’s roots. The bar takes cues from ‘50s Chinatown with cocktails inspired by folklore, triads and old alley intrigue. The space continues to evolve with rotating flowers, artwork and design touches, and occasionally brings in theatrical live elements like fire eating and stunt style performances. Known for its eclectic crowd and cinematic interiors, Madame K remains a vibrant, personality-driven spot for dinner, drinks and late night energy.

Mains from B280. Reserve via 083 262 6142. Madame K Kitchen and Bar, Tuesday-Saturday 2pm-1am, Sunday 2pm-midnight.

Dudesweet takes over Soi Ari for a street-level block party that has shifted slightly to better toast the end of afternoon alcohol prohibition.. Originally planned for a later start, the party is now happening from 2pm onward across Shakariki and Doi Dum Punk Bar on Soi Ari 5. Expect outdoor dancing, indoor chaos and a loose mix of electronic indie pop and guilty pleasures running through the night. It’s a casual come-and-go street party set before everyone disappears for holidays and festivals, with a crowd that spills onto the pavement and a winter-of-love mood that feels very Ari. It’s happening as this is published and runs until it closes at 1am.

Tickets B200. No reservations. Shakariki and Doi Dum Punk Bar, Soi Ari 5, today only, 2pm-1am