Mad Face returns with a sensual feast 

This year’s Mad Face festival theme is “Nerves and Senses,” which promises to push food lovers past taste and into the world of edible perception. The festival takes place daily from 11am to 10pm, starting tomorrow until April 6, at Event Hall, 2nd fl. of Central Chidlom, Phloenchit Road.

Intended to elevate taste, aroma, texture and atmosphere, the festival weaves gastronomy, art, music and culture together via interactive exhibitions, exclusive tastings and discussions that encourage guests to interact with their senses in both familiar and unfamiliar ways.

The programme features displays on fresh produce and raw ingredients, treating fruits and vegetables as artistic components but also showcasing their vibrant colours and natural pigments.

Exhibitors are also showcasing pastry and dessert works that combine traditional techniques with creative interpretations, for a visual and gastronomic feast. The beauty of fermented foods and beverages — including kimchi, kombucha and sourdough — will be on display in a visually spectacular showcase.

There will be a pop-up market in partnership with the Jingjai Farmer’s Market featuring fresh produce, dairy, meats, sauces and artisanal goods that are organic and sustainably sourced. This allows visitors to buy quality ingredients directly from local farmers and producers.

Alongside the drinks, guests can enjoy knowledge about the stories behind small-batch, locally sourced ingredients from independent producers as they drink personalised libations at a curated bar serving otherworldly craft sodas, cocktails, natural wines and non-alcoholic options.

To heighten the immersive dining experience, Bangkok Community Radio will curate playlists and present live electronic performances featuring an eclectic mix of ambient, avant-garde and experimental sounds. These audio experiences will be paired with interactive digital visual art, creating a dynamic sensory interplay.

A series of workshops will provide participants opportunities to work with food and explore sensory perception. A screening room, meanwhile, will combine food, film and art to create a layered, cinematic dining experience.

A night party with experimental DJ acts will also take place on Saturdays and Sundays, while an exclusive dinner in the screening room will offer a specially curated menu timed to ambient soundscapes and dual-screen visual compositions.

Tickets cost 300, 700 and 3,500 baht. Admission to the exhibitions and select public programs is free.