BANGKOK: It is a royal tradition that has proved bountiful through the ages and one that Thailand’s fruit carvers are determined to keep alive — even as young people peel away from the unique art form.
From beetroots carved into roses to fruity floats made from papayas and melons, the most important fruit carving competition in Thailand took place in Bangkok Friday.
But for competitor Piyanat Thiwato, carving is about more than just winning.
“Carving can improve our mind because it requires concentration and enhances our imagination, it’s a way to relax,” he said.
The tradition has been traced back to Thailand’s royal Sukhothai dynasty, in the 14th century.
“The art of food carving started hundreds years ago. Thailand is rich with arts and crafts. It’s like a very beautiful treasure that we have,” said Araya Arunanondchai, the event’s organizer.
“In the old days, it was done in the royal palaces for the royal family,” she added.
Dozens of Thai artists competed in the famous fruit and vegetable carving competition, which was organized in honor of Queen Sirikit, who turns 85 on August 12.
More than 20 teams carved anything from owls to elephants or intricate Thai designs onto fruits including taros, melons, and papaya.
Fruit carving is still popular as an offering in temples or as a decoration for weddings. Fine arts students can still choose to learn it at university, as they would take painting lessons. But the tradition is fading away.
“Not so many young people are interested in it or the ones who studied it in art schools cannot make a living out of it,” Manirat Svastiwat na Ayutthaya, food carving expert said.
Fruit carving, a meticulous art in Thailand
Fruit carving, a meticulous art in Thailand
Where We Are Going Today: Lady Finger Slow Bar in Riyadh
RIYADH: A comfortable little spot in Al-Mutamarat, Lady Finger Slow Bar has quickly become one of my favorite coffee spots in Riyadh.
The interior is calm and decorated with a maroon, beige, black and white palette with little pops of color here and there.
The space is open and bright without being too harsh, and the outdoor seating underneath the columns is perfect cozy hangout space in the winter.
Their coffee is, of course, fantastic, whether you get black, V60, Americano, or any milk variation — my personal favorite is the flat white because the espresso to milk ratio is just ideal.
Coconut and almond alternative milk options are also available, in addition to lactose-free, low-fat and full fat.
I would also recommend trying the coffee of the day, a daily rotation of different beans for those who love to test out new coffee flavors.
Lady Finger is also definitely famous for their desserts, with people constantly grabbing a cup of tiramisu, Oreo pudding, or banana pudding from their fridge all day as they are coming and going. The banana pudding is a crowd favorite; it is creamy with a balanced sweetness that makes it delicious.
During the day, the cafe also serves a breakfast menu complete with a selection of classic sandwiches, eggs and pancakes, or brioche for a sweet breakfast option.
I have to say the turkey sandwich is just OK; the fillings and the bread were great but I would have liked a different sauce that was less citrusy.
The eggs with sourdough, pancakes, and club sandwich are all solid choices for your breakfast or mid-day meal — and the tuna sandwich is taking up space in my mind so I have to try it the next time I go.
Overall, Lady Finger is a wonderful place to relax, catch up with some friends, and get some work done while enjoying a great cup of coffee and maybe a little something sweet one the side.
I also have to give it to the servers at this spot. They are very friendly and accommodating, and they only enhance the welcoming and comfortable vibe inside the cafe.
Take advantage of this beautiful weather we have been having and grab a seat outside with a cup of hot chocolate topped with mini marshmallows, and decadent chocolate sauce to really feel the warmth of the season.
