Eating on Samui - August 2016

ISSUE 79: AUGUST 2016 ISSN 1906-4101

W

W

V

W IS .E IT AT O IN U GO R NS S AM IT UI E .C OM

Peppina

Truly Napolitano Pizza

Authentic Thai Cuisine At Its Finest A pinch of spice, a dash of salt and a dollop of masterful artistry - experience authentic Thai flavours at their finest at Banyan Tree Samui’s award-winning signature restaurant, Saffron

For more information, call 077 915 333 or email saffron-samui@banyantree.com 99/9 Moo 4, Maret, Samui, Surat Thani 84310 banyantree.com

Eating on Samui is Koh Samui’s hottest restaurant guide. In the following pages you will find some of the best restaurants Samui has to offer.

When choosing restaurants to be included in this guide, we assess the overall experience: the food, the service and the ambience, to give you what we believe are the best dining options on the island. The guide is continually updated, and we welcome YOUR feedback on any restaurant that you visit on Samui. Get in touch! (www.eatingonsamui.com) In order to make your selection easier restaurants have been categorised by the type of food on offer, and listings comprise not only photographs of the food and restaurant but menu samples, popular dishes, location maps and directions in Thai for taxi drivers.

Furthermore, each issue features more detailed reviews of selected restaurants.

So read on and enjoy!

Published & Distributed: United Publishing Co., Ltd. Business Registration: สศก ๑๔ นศ/๖/๒๕๕๕ Designed: IT Graphix (www.itgraphix.com) Office: 119/5 Moo 1, Tambon Bophut, Koh Samui, 84320 Thailand Tel: 081 821 9388 Fax: 077 256 277 Web: www.unitedpublishing.co.th Email: info@unitedpublishing.co.th Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/EatingOnSamui Follow us: https://twitter.com/eatingonsamui Managing Director: Paisit Kapilakan Marketing Director: Pat Aupparisatjakul Photographer: Chu (DoNudes) & Mikolaj Krawczunas Editor: Paisit Kapilakan Printed: City Print Co.,Ltd. Colour Separation: Modern Film Center Co.,Ltd. Front Cover: Mikolaj Krawczunas Restaurants are fully responsible for the content of their advertisements & indemnify United Publishing Co Ltd. against all actions and claims arising directly or indirectly from the advertisement.

MAKE TIME FOR SOME TREATS

“If a nice view of the pool is what you are looking for, Tamarind Bar & Lounge is located poolside, where you can enjoy dinner in a relaxed atmosphere. Tamarind Bar & Lounge offers a selection of Thai fusion food., and a refreshment list featuring house special tropical cocktails, old favorites, local & international beers and an extensive wine list. Nightly live entertainment, games & library�

Website: www.impiana.com Tel: +6677 448 994 Email: info.ircn@impiana.com

AUTHENTIC THAI & SOUTHERN

Thai CUISINE

"Krua Bophut" is the authentic Thai restaurant located in the beautiful Fisherman Village on Bophut Beach. This royal Thai design is decorated by wood carving as a classically antique Thai house. The ambient, the serene indoor, the expanded outdoor, and on the beach, allows you to enjoy the tranquility of the beach, the twinkling star light, the whispering wave, and the drifting yachts along with the beautiful music. Convenient parking is also available.

Our experienced chefs proudly present you our authentic Thai cuisine and Southern Thai menu in local style. Fresh seafood is a must with great quality from the fisherman village at reasonable price. With our good service, here you will find a superb dining experience and great memories.

Fisherman’s Village

|

Bophut Beach

RESERVATION:

FREE

osite parking otpapurant s re the

|

Koh Samui

077 430 030 or 077 245 035

16/16 Moo 1, Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320, Thailand www.kruabophut.com email: kruabophut.samui@gmail.com

contents Restaurant Listings

ROYAL/TRADITIONAL THAI, INDIAN, & JAPANESE

ITALIAN, FRENCH, & MEDITERRANEAN Dr Frogs (Chaweng Noi) 53 Italian Cuisine

Full Moon (Bophut) 54

French-Mediterranean Cuisine

Jahn (Pang Ka) 18

H Bistro (Bophut) 55

Krua Bophut (Bophut) 09

Olivio (Chaweng) 56

NAMU (Maenam) 02

Peppina (Chaweng) 26

Noori India (Chaweng) 44

Prego (Chaweng) 14

Poppies (Chaweng) 45

Red Snapper (Chaweng) 57

Saffron (Lamai) 46

The Cliff (Lamai) 58

The Farmer (Maenam) 47

The Dining Room (Lamai) 59

Contemporary Thai Cuisine Authentic Thai & Southern Thai Cuisine Japanese Cuisine Indian Cuisine

Royal Thai & International Traditional & Modern Thai Cuisine Authentic Thai Cuisine

French-Mediterranean Cuisine Italian Cuisine Italian Cuisine Italian Cuisine

French-Mediterranean Cuisine Mediterranean Cuisine

French-Mediterranean Cuisine

The Height (Lamai) 48 Fine Thai Cuisine

EAST MEETS WEST

INTERNATIONAL, THAI & SEAFOOD Ciccio Ristorante

9Gems (Chaweng) 22

BEYOND THE Pizzeria SEA (Laem Set) 60

East meets West Cuisine

Thai, Seafood & International

Dining on the Rocks (Choeng Mon) 40

Hard Rock Cafe (Chaweng) 62

Innovative Fusion Cuisine

Authentic American Cuisine

Drink Gallery (Chaweng) 49

Kiree (Chaweng) 28

East meets West Cuisine

Thai, International & Seafood Cuisine

SALA Restaurant (Choeng Mon) 50

Long Talay (Chaweng Noi) 24

East meets West Cuisine

Thai, International & Seafood Cuisine

Stacked (Chaweng) 51

Moon (Lamai) 63

Fusion Cuisine

Seafood & International Cuisine

The Page (Chaweng) 52

OceanKiss (Chaweng) 64

East meets West Cuisine

and more...

EDITOR’S CHOICE 14 A selection of fine dining restaurants

FLAVOURS OF SAMUI 66 A selection of Executive Chefs

10

&

Thai & International Cuisine

Ocean Pier (Lamai) 08

Thai, International & Seafood Cuisine

Tamarind (Chaweng Noi) 07 Thai & International Cuisine

The Larder (Chaweng) 65

Contemporary British & International Cuisine

TREAT YOURSELF AT LEAST ONCE Probably the most beautiful Restaurant on the Island and definitely the best food. Dine outside on the rocks by the sea or inside the open air ‘dining room’.

Our exceptional Chef and his team present a wonderful cross-over of Mediterranean and delicious French Cuisine.

The Dining Room is open every day for lunch and dinner.

We hold regular events and often live music.

ROCKY’S BOUTIQUE RESORT, KOH SAMUI. RESERVATIONS 077 233 020 dining@rockyresort.com www.rockyresort.com On the ringroad Just south of Lamai.

Top Tastes, Always Affordable Sumptuous Italian Dining at Prego Newly-redesigned and completely refurbished, Prego combines warm contemporary architecture with a friendly, convivial atmosphere. There’s a small, intimate bar at the front, great for cocktails or long drinks, and comfy seating while you’re dining. Staff are extremely friendly and make this exactly the sort of place you’d find in Italy, where families and friends come for informal and great-tasting food.

Prego is in the hands of Italian chef, Marco Boscaini, who has been here since the restaurant first opened in 2003. As such, he knows exactly what his guests like and has gone to inordinate lengths to please them. Using the best ingredients, mostly imported from Italy, he offers the kind of sumptuous treats you’d expect of a top-notch chef – but here’s the surprise – they’re all totally affordable. Many guests expect to be paying a lot more, until they take a look at the menu and

the prices. The restaurant is therefore popular with not just holidaymakers but island residents and is well-known throughout Samui.

The menu, in both Italian and English, reads just like one that you’d find in Italy; there are all the popular dishes as well as those that the chef’s chosen that may not be quite so familiar. You’ll find a whole range of pizzas, for example, and you can even build your own, choosing a sauce and four toppings or more. There are just over 40 combinations!

You can then watch your pizza being deftly cooked in the beautiful pizza oven, just to one side of the restaurant. It’s here all the side dishes are prepared, too and you may see marinated vegetables being grilled or spinach and scamorza cheese being baked.

The menu lists a whole array of delectable goodies from starters, through soups, pastas, risottos, then fish and meat main courses to desserts.

For starters, the burrata cheese on marinated tomato is highly recommended and then perhaps a roasted lamb ragu with saffron pappardelle and porcini mushrooms. If you love meat, you’ll love the Angus beef sirloin or Australian tenderloin while fish-lovers will appreciate a dish like the baked salmon filet with baby spinach and lemon cream reduction.

You’ll need to hold back a little, though – just make sure you make room for desserts as they are magnificent here. There’s a range of Italian delights with Chef Marco’s tiramisu definitely topping the list – dessert aficionados will be wowed.

Prego is definitely recommended if you’re hankering after wonderful Italian food in a fine but relaxed and casual setting.

Reservations: 077 300 306, 077 300 317

EDITOR’S CHOICE

15

Reservations: 077 428 300-9 Please see page 54 for menu sample

Sumptuous Treats at

Full Moon

Char-grill aficionados are heading to Bophut and the Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort’s Full Moon char grill restaurant on the West End of Fisherman’s Village, a prime spot for excellent taste, affordability and presentation. Diners are well-looked after by knowledgeable and helpful staff, while the chef and his team are well-known for their amazing dishes. The concept is simple: a variety of quality meats, along with the choice of sauces and side dishes, and all served in the chic surroundings of the restaurant.

The restaurant’s focus is on French-Mediterranean cuisine and is thoroughly international

Executive chef Christoph Lindner has just put together a new menu featuring beef from three different sources. From Australia he’s chosen Black Angus tenderloin and strip loin, from the US, pure Black Angus rib eye and New York strip and from Japan, Wagyu beef that comes from the Miyazaki prefecture – one of the country’s most famous and succulent varieties. Christoph made his choice based on three criteria: best meat cuts, their origin and the breed itself. For seafood, the diners are again spoiled for both choice and quality. There’s Phuket lobster, sea bass, squid, along with sustainably-farmed turbot from France & Spain and Kingfish from Australia.

The restaurant also arranges special evenings, usually quaterly, where three notable chefs put on a 6-course wine dinner featuring top quality products. The next will be in June. It is a chance to see exactly what a trio of chefs can do – and judging by the bookings they’ve received for past events, it’ll be extremely popular.

The restaurant’s focus is on FrenchMediterranean cuisine and is thoroughly international. The setting is superb and naturally there is a full wine list to go with the food. It is always a treat to dine at Full Moon – the restaurant scores full marks for excellence on all fronts.

EDITOR’S CHOICE

17

HEAD FOR THE HEIGHTS Jahn at the Conrad Koh Samui

Before the signs went up, people couldn’t find the Conrad; it’s on a remarkably deserted road that winds up onto one of the most beautiful and secluded spots in Samui, a cliff-top overlooking the southern stretch of sea all the way to the mainland. But you don’t need to be a guest to enjoy the Conrad’s fine-dining restaurant, Jahn.

Its glass walls showcase the sea outside, with perhaps one of the best views of the Five Islands a steep drop below. Once you’ve feasted your eyes on the outside world, you’ll appreciate the discreet dining room, utterly contemporary but with architectural notes that harken back to the nation’s exotic past, notably the gold-inlay teak columns that anchor Jahn – it seems to float above the sea, far below.

Opening hours: 6pm – 10pm daily

Reservations: 077 915 888 or send email to conrad_koh_samui@conradhotels.com

The menu focuses on contemporary takes of traditional Thai dishes. The presentation will make you want to bring out your camera – the food beautifully, artistically arranged – and, yes, it tastes every bit as good as it looks.

You’ll find a tempting array of much-loved dishes: papaya salad, tom yum goong – made teapot style here – or a dessert of coconut crème brulée, made from the island’s own fresh coconuts. For main courses try the massaman wagyu – highly tasty sous-vide meat, filled with aromatic penetrating juice – or the equally tempting seabass with its gingery tones.

Almost 3,000 bottles make up the prestigious wine cellar, with both old world and new world

wines on the menu. Jahn is a great place to relax: comfy seats abound and waitstaff are friendly and discerning.

After one of Jahn’s exquisite desserts try a coffee like no other: the best of Arabicas, Black Ivory Elephant Coffee, prepared at your table in a glass cafetiere that’s stepped straight out of a Steampunk novel.

If you can give Jahn 6 hours’ notice, take advantage of the free limousine service (round trip to anywhere on the island) and you’ll enjoy your evening still more. No surprise at all that Jahn has won a Thailand Tatler award for exceptional cuisine and service.

EDITOR’S CHOICE

19

Unique Rural Restaurant It’d be difficult to find a more relaxed setting for dinner than The Farmer Restaurant & Bar. For a start, there’s nothing quite like it; this is the only restaurant on Samui to be situated in a rice field. As such, it’s an amazingly peaceful place to dine. You can hear the cries of cicadas out in the fields, watch buffalo grazing and while evening falls on the hills just to the south.

terrace. Either way, you’ll enjoy the unusual sense of peace that comes from being in a thoroughly rural, unspoiled spot.

The Farmer is part of FuramaXclusive Farmers Boutique Koh Samui, a new resort that comprises 45 villas and pool villas. An elegant place to stay, its restaurant offers some wonderful choices when it comes to food.

The dishes are top-quality Thai, using recipes that are generations old and have been handed right the way down to the present owner and the chef. These are completely authentic dishes, prepared with great flair. The results are delicately-nuanced textures where every ingredient and taste is balanced. To sum up: you’re in for a treat when you eat here. Not surprisingly, The Farmer won a Best Restaurant award from Thailand Tatler.

At the restaurant you can either sit inside the open-air dining rooms or outside on the large

The menu’s extensive and covers the full gamut of Thai food.

Reservations: 077 447 222, 077 247 979, Fax: 077 447 255 Please see page 47 for menu sample EDITOR’S CHOICE

21

The View from the Top 9GEMS Lounge Restaurant

Easily one of the most sophisticated of Koh Samui’s venues for eating and drinking, 9GEMS Lounge Restaurant appears to be ahead of itself in time. It looks as if it’s stepped right out of an interior design magazine. The chic minimalism of the setting with to-die-for interior design gives 9GEMS both a relaxed and a spacious feel at the same time.

Reservations: 077 256 125

Thanks to its location, perched right on top of a hillside, you’ll experience some of the best views on the island. The whole of Chaweng is spread out before you, making this an ideal place to watch the sun go down while you enjoy a long drink or cocktail.

When it comes to dinner, you can expect the dishes to be every bit as sophisticated as the décor itself. Enjoy contemporary takes on Thai and European cuisine. For starters, try fusion chicken tandoori salad, with the dish subtly nuanced by soy sauce and balsamic vinegar.

Tagliatelle comes with pesto or tomato sauce but you can also try it with Thai-style massaman curry. The bread, by the way, is home made, as is most of what you’ll find at 9GEMS with very little in the way of any outside processing at all.

When it comes to main courses, enjoy a roasted aurora rack of lamb marinated in pesto and tandoori spices or if you’re a fish lover, try grilled tuna with pepper turmeric on

an asparagus bed with egg risotto. Tastes at the restaurant cross effortlessly between east and west, and have been created by the chefowner who grew up in Thailand but lived for years in Europe.

With its excellent food, décor and views, recently-opened 9GEMS Lounge Restaurant is definitely worth heading for.

Opening Hour: Tue-Thu open from 4pm-12am Fri-Sun open from 4pm-2am, closed on Monday Open every day in August and from mid-December to the end of April Close for holiday from the 1st to 27th of November Dress Code: Trendy or Smart Casual.

Minimum Age: +12 (Screaming children will not be tolerated)

EDITOR’S CHOICE

23

T R U LY I N T E R N A T I O N A L T R E A T S

A Seaside Idyll

Long Talay at Sheraton Samui Resort For a seaside setting, this restaurant could hardly be better. It oozes a laid-back charm all of its own that makes it a very relaxing place to be. The main dining room is open-sided, light and airy and channels a dream beach house that might have come from anywhere in the world that’s sunny and definitely laid-back, be it Australia, the Mediterranean, or the Caribbean – take your pick. Indeed, the restaurant caters for people from all over the world.

You can choose to eat in the main dining room itself, with its glass doors open to the breezes, or outside by the pool on a series of terraces that lead down to the beach. You’ll also be able to eat at Blue Monkey Bar, right by the sands, just a few steps away from Long Talay itself, and enjoy cocktails or cooling drinks.

The menu features international and Thai favourites and there’s a wide choice of them.

Feast on roasted lamb cutlets, Nasi Goreng, Fish & Chips, Massaman Curry, or a spicy Tom Yum Goong. The choice is yours and may be perhaps hard to make as there’s a big selection to choose from. There are plenty of sandwiches, burgers, pizza and pasta, as well as vegetarian dishes.

Long Talay hosts three themed buffet nights per week, featuring speciality dishes from around the world (Mondays), Asian cuisine (Thursdays) and a local seafood & premium meat BBQ on the outdoor terrace (Saturdays).

The restaurant also hosts special one-off evenings and is currently getting ready for Oktoberfest.

You can also experience the global Sheraton food and beverage program at Blue Monkey Bar. It’s simply called ‘Paired’ and unites bar snacks with either premium wines or craft beers. These are quite unexpected pairings.

For example, try pairing of Fisherman’s Prawn Satay on roti with peanut dipping sauce with either Penfolds Koonunga Hill, (Chardonnay) or 8 Wired, Semiconductor or American IPA (craft beers).The combinations are definitely highly tasty, as well as creative.

Long Talay is an ideal place to unwind and enjoy international and Thai dishes that can be either traditional or have a new creative twist to them.

Reservations: 077 422 020

EDITOR’S CHOICE

25

Reservations: Tel: 077 231 546-9

PEPPINA PIZZA TRULY NAPOLITANO PIZZA “Napolitan style pizza is known as the best pizza in the world” Is there anything that says Italy more than pizza? Biting into a right out of the oven pizza is just heaven! While you’ll find excellent pizza all over Italy, there’s one place that’s absolutely the top – Naples. This is where pizza was born and where it’s still king.

Pizza dates back to 18th century Naples, when it was a garnished flat bread sold by roaming vendors to the poor in the streets. The biggest step towards its current popularity was the acceptance of tomatoes as a pizza topping by Neapolitans. The story is that pizza was endorsed by Queen Margherita in 1889, when baker Raffaele Esposito was summoned to bake for her and created Pizza Margherita – tomato, mozzarella cheese and basil – the color of the Italian Flag.

Today; Peppina continues that rich tradition of perfect pizza making with an old-world tiled oven, lots of attention to the dough and the keep-it-simple approach to only the most amazing seasonal toppings - terrific handmade cheeses, the best tomatoes, the most savory meats and freshest basil.

Peppina is very serious about Neapolitan-style pizza that there’s an “ideology” on how the pizza dough should be prepared. The secret to our dough is that we know our ingredients; water, sea salt, flour and yeast.

We use a flour which is a highly refined flour that gets a lot of lightness in the crust. If you talk to the Neapolitans, they say that the water from Naples is key. And we don’t use oil. As far as Neapolitan pizza is concerned,

you want to see the blisters come out at high heat, which won’t happen with oil Moreover, At Peppina, the finest locally bred and imported meats are chosen by our own in-house chef to help you get the most from your meat. A good grilled piece of meat is one of life’s simple pleasures, and we have taken pride in our grilling knowledge and skill so that meat lovers can taste the most tender and juicy meats.

At Peppina, none of that escapes our thoughts and we take the highest care and pleasure to achieve the goal posts that meat lovers have come to demand and expect from Peppina.

EDITOR’S CHOICE

27

An Exquisite Treasure Trove Fine Dining at Vana Belle, a Luxury Collection Resort, Koh Samui

Beautifully designed Kiree restaurant offers discerning guests a luxe experience that very few of Samui’s resorts can match. Overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, Kiree is as discreet as it’s chic. Furnishings are opulent with low, comfy chairs grouped around tables, giving an intimate, almost hideaway feel. The sea views and natural surroundings are incomparable and invite you to step into a private world that’s filled with calm and beauty.

Kiree’s day is marked by two special events that are rare to find on Samui, anywhere. The first is a luxury breakfast, replete with delicacies such as oysters, salmon and smoked duck. Diners are treated to various cooking stations with items such as Serrano ham being carved before their eyes. Partly à la carte and partly a buffet, this must be just about the perfect breakfast. It’s mirrored by the equally sophisticated high tea, known here as Jib Nam Cha, served between 3:00 and 4:00 pm (or at other times if taken privately). It’s filled with gourmet delights and turns afternoons into a wonderful gastronomic experience.

On Saturdays, there’s a special brunch, while every evening Kiree offers a wide array of Southern Thai dishes, marked by spicy notes and with dishes from Phuket, Nakorn Sri Thammarat and further south. Everything is top quality, with beef being Australian Angus and Wagyu.

You can also feast on Thai tapas, known here as Kiree Lek Lek, with dishes such as Nua Dad Deaw (Deep Fried Thai Style Marinated Australian Beef) or Phad Thai Malagor (Stir Fried Papaya Noodle with Prawns, Sweet Tamarind Sauce, Dried Shrimp, Cashew Nut and Crispy Pork).

The restaurant is highly recommended and spending a few hours here gives you the feeling of a journey to a faraway, exotic place.

Reservations: 077 915 555

EDITOR’S CHOICE

29

Doubly Delicious

Olivio Italian Cuisine awes with both Italian & Thai delights

Olivio Italian Cuisine at Baan Haad Ngam Boutique Resort & Villas is one of the very few Italian restaurants that’s right on the beach. Not just any beach, but a beautiful spot on the northernmost part of the bay of Chaweng. It’s decidedly romantic. Look out from the restaurant and you’ll see the entire bay as it sweeps down to the south.

On an island where culinary competition is extremely strong, Olivio is renowned for for both its Italian and Thai cuisine. It’s been going strong since 2003 when it first opened, all the time headed by the same maestro, Chef Jakarin Huaysan, who cooks both his native Thai dishes, and, equally well, Italian and European favourites too.

It’s an open secret that as much as possible is made from scratch at Olivio. Take, for example, the pasta. Chef Jakarin prepares most of it himself, rather than buying it ready-made. He crafts his own fettuccini and cappelli d’angelo, or angel’s hair, a type of very thin spaghetti to which he adds, say, seafood with garlic chilli. He also prepares his own ravioli and for this he uses a filling of ricotta that he also makes himself. The same goes for the bread; it’s produced on the premises in Olivio’s own bakery. With

Opening hours: 6.30 am - 11.00 pm daily Reservations: 077 231 500-8 Menu sample: page 56

attention to detail of this magnitude, it’s hardly surprising that the food’s highly tasty.

And there’s a huge range of it, too. A bit of an understatement to say there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re after a delicious Toscana-style lasagna or a Thai massaman curry with all the traditional ingredients, you’ll find it here at Olivio. You’ll also find antipasti, risotto, pasta and pizza along with Thai salads, soups, curries and stir-fries.

If you’re here with your beloved, you may wish to opt for the Private Romantic Dinner, where you eat at a decorated table either on the beach itself, weather and tides permitting, or at the poolside. There are

three set menus: traditional Thai, Italian and European. Whichever you choose, it’s guaranteed you’ll be spoiled by the treats that will be brought to your table. All you have to do is to book the table 24 hours beforehand.

Last but not least, if you’re in Chaweng or Choeng Mon and would like to come for a meal at Olivio, you can take advantage of a free round-trip service.

Truly relaxing and always welcoming, Olivio offers highly tasty dishes across a pleasingly wide culinary spectrum.

EDITOR’S CHOICE

31

BEYOND THE SEA Siamese Brasserie

The word ‘Thai cuisine’ is very gruesome. It is definitely a big word. It is a massive variety of dishes representing the achievement from hundreds of year in culture and tradition, a lifetime it would take in order to be a Thai cuisine specialist. How can a single meal be able to show just a slant glimpse of it?

‘A Must Try Authentic Thai Cuisine Restaurant on Koh Samui’ is not only its definition but really is.

The uncompromising tasty menus especially the local ones are truly original in recipe and flavour.

Further tantalizing and well-presented our Thai Tapas menu has more than 10 Tapas to offer our guests from Scallop in Green Curry, Thai Paella or Thai Calamari.our guests from Scallop in Green Curry, Thai Paella or Thai Calamari.

After a hot, long and intense meal of Thai cuisine and if a sweet ending is what you are looking for, we highly recommend you Mellow Mango with Sticky Rice which is one of ShaSa’s signature dish. It becomes a must for Samui travelers to check in at BEYOND THE SEA with its signature dishes as the missions checking point.

No disrespect to Bangkok but it seems to be impossible for any city views to beat ShaSa’s glorious panoramic sea view. Under Samui blue sky, moderndesigned BEYOND THE SEA is located on Leam Set which is known to be the

most peaceful, and the best preserved beach in Samui.

BEYOND THE SEA, Siamese Brasserie opens daily from morning for breakfast continues to ShaSa sunny afternoon and besides sweets like Belgian Chocolate, BEYOND THE SEA also pampers its guests by finest coffee, special blends from the selected premium coffee beans.

Reservations: 077 913 888 Menu sample: page 60

EDITOR’S CHOICE

33

Dr Frogs Italian Cuisine to Gladden The Heart The setting’s a unique and very extraordinary one. Nestled high over a jungly slope between Chaweng and Lamai, Dr Frogs commands beautiful views of the entire bay of Chaweng.

From anywhere on this open-sided restaurant you can gaze to your heart’s content at one of the best views that the island has to offer.

The food’s as sumptuous as the views. Dr Frogs has a cachet for providing great-tasting dishes and is always good value for money. The cuisine’s purely and delightfully Italian, thanks to expert Massimo Mariani being chef here. He’s renowned for classical Italian cuisine and it’s always mouth-watering thanks to him using the freshest and best of products and ingredients. Samui being an island, it’s not surprising that Dr Frogs offers some great seafood.

There’s a wonderful array including the excellent Linguine Frutti di Mare – this consists of mixed local shellfish, tiger prawns & squid, prepared in a light tomato sauce with chili & garlic. Dr Frogs is equally well-known for its pizza and pasta – order a pizza here and you’ll be eating just like Italians do at great restaurants back in their home towns.

You’ll find Dr Frogs right on the ring-road just 2 kilometers after Chaweng as you head to Lamai. There’s space for parking, too. It’s between Boujis Boutique Resort and Samui’s most visited view point – this gives you an idea of how stunning the ocean vistas are.

With fully-experienced waiting staff who are on hand just when you need them, a meal here is always a delight. Sit at comfy tables overlooking the sea and sample an excellent range of drinks, including 14 hand-picked wines that come from all over the world.

It’s also one of the rare restaurants to offer a gourmet breakfast (from 7:00 am until 10:00 am), where you can avail yourself of food that’s both filling and moreish. The breakfast includes a very satisfying array of different choices, including combos and teas, coffees and fresh juices. In addition, Dr Frogs hosts events such as parties and

wedding receptions; the team here excels at stylish food for up to 100 guests and more.

If you like Thai food, then you’ll enjoy the Thai dishes on the menu – there’s a full range with professional chefs who’re able to accommodate the degree of spiciness you wish for.

A visit to Dr Frogs is highly recommended and guarantees a happily memorable experience; you’ll be sure to enjoy the fine foods here as much as the wonderful ambience. Catch live music on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings.

Reservations: 077 448 505, 093 620 1517 Menu sample: page 53

EDITOR’S CHOICE

35

Essential Samui Experience The SALA Samui restaurant leads the way in creative contemporary cuisine within a stylish modern setting.

SALA Samui Restaurant is guided by Chef Nick Hall, who insists on only using the freshest and finest local ingredients to create stunning cuisines by hand and from the heart. He is a strong believer that all food should be created in-house and that all flavours should remain traditional using modern techniques.

36

EDITOR’S CHOICE

SALA offers an extensively detailed menu ranging from traditional Thai cuisines to modern European dishes that reflect the diversity of Southeast Asia. All of the dishes are meticulously created by Chef Nick and SALA’s dedicated team, to ensure that every guest will savor the traditional taste of SALA. Seafood plays a big part in SALA’s menu and is largely supplied with the freshest fish from the Gulf of Siam and brought to the shores of Samui. Select ingredients from beyond the island are imported with only the highest regard for quality.

SALA is now presenting their signature dining events which are held: Monday and Friday where guests can enjoy dining on the beach underneath an array of stars in a truly relaxing atmosphere, complimented by live music.

Wednesday which is the ‘Taste of Thailand’, a Thai celebration that combines a charcoal style barbecue serving deliciously tasty and traditional Thai dishes. All while enjoying a beautiful display of Traditional Thai dance and music with a Thai market theme.

Please see page 50 for sample menu Reservations: 077 245 888

EDITOR’S CHOICE

37

Authentic Thai Cuisine At Its Finest

Saffron, Banyan Tree Samui’s signature restaurant, is perched on a hillside overlooking the glittering waters of the resort’s private bay stretching out to the Gulf of Thailand.

Exceptional views are complemented with a menu that is a combination of traditional Thai dishes with a modern twist and innovated new ones.

Explore the rich and varied culinary options on offer while delighting in the ambiance of understated, yet refined, elegance.

For menu options and additional information, please see page 46 For reservations, call 077 915 333 or email saffron-samui@banyantree.com EDITOR’S CHOICE

39

THE DINING ROOM AT ROCKY’S BOUTIQUE RESORT ‘Probably the most beautiful Restaurant on the Island’

Please see page 59 for sample menu RESERVATIONS: 077 233 020

TREAT YOURSELF AT LEAST ONCE

Probably the most beautiful Restaurant on the Island and definitely the best food. Dine outside on the rocks by the sea or inside the open air ‘dining room’.

Our exceptional Chef and his team present a wonderful cross-over of Mediterranean and delicious French Cuisine.

The Dining Room is open every day for lunch and dinner.

We hold regular events and often live music.

ROCKY’S BOUTIQUE RESORT, KOH SAMUI. RESERVATIONS 077 233 020 dining@rockyresort.com www.rockyresort.com On the ringroad Just south of Lamai.

EDITOR’S CHOICE

43

Noori India

Beach Chaweng Buri Resort Noori India 1

Banana Fan Sea Chaweng Beach Road

Noori India 2

Poppies Resort

Noori India, one of the oldest Indian restaurants in Samui, offers all the favourite Indian and Mughalai dishes as well as a few you may not have tried before! The menu features Indian cuisine, seafood and some interesting Thai-Indian fusion dishes. The ambience, traditional classical music and personal attention from host D.D. and his team will serve to enhance your appetite. The high number of repeat customers is testament to the quality of food and service.

Contact for wedding catering, birthday party, and group buffet.

MENU SAMPLE: 01. Samosa - Pastries stuffed with potatoes & cashew nuts, chicken or lamb 65-195 Bt 02. Tandoori Fish Tikka - Barbeque chunk of fish marinated in Indian herb and cooked in clay oven (tandoor) 280 Bt 03. Chicken Tikka Masala - Boneless Tandoori chicken pieces cooked in red curry sauce 210 Bt 04. Lamb Madras - Lamb cooked in South Indian herbs and sauce 300 Bt 05. Goan Seafood Curry - Prawn, Fish and Squid cooked in spices from Goa & North India 250 Bt 06. Chicken / Lamb sheek kebab - Minced chicken / lamb marineted with spices and cooked in Tandoor 300 - 400 baht 07. Vegetable Curry / Masala - Your choice of fresh vegetables cooked in curry sauce 120 Bt *Special kids menu available

44

ROYAL THAI, INDIAN, JAPANESE & CHINESE

INFORMATION: Contact: 086 740 7873, 077 300 757, 077 413 315 Average cost per person: 230-550 Bt (2 courses) House wine per glass: 130-150 Bt Credit cards: Visa, Master (3% charge) Service & Tax: Included Open from: 11am to 11.30pm Web: www.nooriindiasamui.com

*LEARN YOUR INDIAN COOKING*

FOR TAXI: ร้านนูริ สาขา 1 อยู่ตรงข้ามโรงแรมเฉวงบุรี รีสอร์ท หาดเฉวง ร้านนูริ สาขา 2 อยู่หน้าโรงแรมเฉวง โคฟ รีโซเทล

Poppies

Chaweng Cove Resotel

Noori India 2

Beach Poppies Restaurant (Poppies Resort) Chaweng Beach Road

Seascape Resort

Bangkok Bank

Poppies is firmly established as the leading Thai restaurant on the island. They also have innovative International cuisine, a beach bar and a gorgeous seaside setting. Open since 1995, dining at Poppies has become a Samui tradition.

MENU SAMPLE:

INFORMATION:

01. Tom yum goong, talay Hot & sour prawn OR seafood broth with straw mushrooms

Contact: 077 422 419 Average cost per guest: 790 Bt House wine per bottle: 950 Bt Credit cards: Visa, Master, Amex Service & tax: 7% Tax and 10% Service Charge Popular Dish: Kantoke (No. 6) Entertainment: Saturday Thai night traditional Thai music and dance and local handcraft market Open from: Lunch 11:30 to 17:30 Dinner 17:30 to 22:30 Web: www.poppiessamui.com

02. Yam talay Fresh local seafood poached with celery, onions & lime 03. Som tam gai yang khao neow Spicy green papaya with grilled chicken & sticky rice 04. Gaeng phed pet yang Chinese roast duck in red curry with grapes and pineapple 05. Poo pad pong karee Sauteed crab in dry yellow curry with egg & celery 06. Eight choices of Kantoke - a balanced selection of small Thai dishes (three courses) served on a rattan tray - perfect for 2 sharing.

FOR TAXI: ร้Ò¹Íยู่ã¹âçáÃÁ ป๊อ»ปี้ ËÒ´à©Ç§ (ÃÐËว่า§ âçáÃÁ «Õ Êऻ ¡Ñº à©Ç§ ⤿ ÃÕÊÍร์·) ROYAL THAI, INDIAN, JAPANESE & CHINESE

45

Saffron

Saffron (Banyan Tree Samui) IT Complex building Chaweng

Beach Silavadee Pool Spa Resort Renaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa Samui Ring Road

Le Meridien Lamai

Enjoy the best of Thai cuisine and flavours at Banyan Tree’s signature restaurant as you savour signature dishes from a menu that is a combination of traditional Thai dishes with a modern twist, and innovative new ones. Overlooking the glittering Lamai Bay, the ambience is one of understated, yet refined, elegance.

MENU SAMPLE:

INFORMATION:

01. Khong Wang Ruam - A Selection of Freshly Prepared Thai Appetizers for Two Crisp Rice Noodle Wrapped Prawn, Grilled Tender Beef Satay, Tender Chicken Wrapped in Pandan Leaf, Banana Blossom-Prawn Salad - 900 Bt 02. Goong Sarong Beua Thod - Crisp Rice Noodle Wrapped Prawn, Fried Pepper Leaf, Sweet Mango Chili Sauce - 490 Bt 03. Larb Tuna - Spicy Yellow Fin Tuna Tartar, Crisp Craker, String Bean and Cucumber Salad - 490 Bt 04. Yum Hua Plee Goong - Banana Blossom Salad , Grilled Marinated Prawns, Fried Banana Flower, Coconut Dressing - 490 Bt 05. Gai Yang Khreuang Gaeng - Thai Barbecue Curried Chicken, Papaya Salad 680 Bt 06. Khao Phad Saffron - Wok Tossed Saffron Rice, Seafood, Vegetables, Crispy Dried Shrimp Classic Flavour - 650 Bt

Contact: 077 915 333 Average cost per person: from 1,200 Bt Wine by Bottle: from 2,400 Bt Credit cards: Visa, Master, Amex, JCB, Diner Service & Tax: included Popular Dish: No. 1, No. 4, No. 6 Open: 18.00 - 23.00 hrs Web: www.banyantree.com/en/ap-thailandkoh-samui Email: saffron-samui@banyantree.com

46

ROYAL THAI, INDIAN, JAPANESE & CHINESE

FOR TAXI: ร้านอยู่ในโรงแรมบันยันทรี สมุย ห่างจาก ไอที คอมเพล็กซ์ 150 เมตร เลี้ยวเข้าซอยซ้ายมือ ประมาณ 500 เมตร

The Farmer

Beach •

Samui Lapidary

Nathon

Lomprayah Pier

Napralarn Temple Chaweng FuramaXclusive Farmers Boutique Koh Samui

Uniquely located in rice paddies, FuramaXclusive Farmers Boutique Koh Samui is known for its outstanding Thai dining. The recipes have been handed down through the same family for generations; the cuisine is authentic, with everything made from scratch and cooked to perfection. This is the place to come if you like Thai curries and dishes that taste sublime. The full menu also includes favorite Thai starters, mains and dessert.

CHEF’S RECOMMENDATIONS :

01. Crispy fried duck- served with herbal dipping sauce and jasmine stemmed rice 02. Mussaman Wagyu beef- southern style curry with Wagyu beef served with five colored aromatic rice.

03. Thai Whole seabass Grilled in banana leaf served with red curry sauce.

04. River prawns Pat Thai style noodle.

05. Mussaman lamb shank- Southern style curry served with mashed potato and “arjad” sauce.

30% discount on the crispy fried duck and chicken massaman, both at lunch and dinner All main dishes are accompanied an exquisite selection of five different rices wrapped in banana leaves.

Event, party, group dinner contact 077 447 222

INFORMATION:

Contact: 077 447 222, 077 247 979 Credit card: Visa, Master Service & Tax: 10% service charge & 7% VAT Popular dish: Mussaman Lamb shank (No.5) Open from : Noon till Late Transfer : Free round trip service in Maenam and Bophut area. From other areas: 300 Baht.

Vegetarian dishes are available Free Wi-Fi for customer 20% discount for all cocktails from 6 pm. - 7 pm.

Farmer’s Duck Voted Samui No.1 tasty duck

TOP TEN 2014 www.tripadvisor.com

FOR TAXI: ร้านอาหารเดอะ ฟาร์เมอร์ เรสเทอรองแอนด์ บาร์ ตั้งอยู่ในโรงแรมฟูราม่า เอ๊กซ์คลูซีฟ ฟาร์เมอร์ส บูทีค รีสอร์ท เกาะสมุย ต.แม่น�้ำ อยูเ่ ยือ้ งกับร้านสมุยลาพิดารี่ ตรงข้าม ฟ้าทวีพร เอ๊าท์เลท ROYAL THAI, INDIAN, JAPANESE & CHINESE

47

The Height

IT Complex building Chaweng

Beach The Height (Silavadee Pool Spa Resort) Renaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa Samui Ring Road

The Spa Resort Lamai

Elevate your senses of a fine Thai cuisine at “The Height” restaurant. Seclusion, romance and breathtaking views will best sum up your experience of The Height restaurant. The restaurant has both air conditioned and open air seating, offering a stunning view of the surrounding sea.

MENU SAMPLE: 01. Scallop Salad-Yam-Hoy Shell 02. Papaya Salad – Somtam Thai 03. Pork Pineapple – Moo-Ob-Sab-Pa-Ros 04. Baked White Prawns – Goong Ob-Sa-Mul-Pai 05. Lamb Yellow Curry 06. Beef Massaman 07. Silavadee Pad Thai Free transfer to our restaurant in Lamai area, and more than 4 guests from anywhere on Koh Samui (advance booking required)

INFORMATION:

Contact: 077 960 555 Average cost per person: 750 Bt House wine per bottle: 1,400 Bt House wine per glass: 350 Bt Credit card: Visa, Master, Amex, Diners, JCB Service & Tax: Taxes and service charges are INCLUDED in all Silavadee prices Recommended: Lamb Yellow Curry Open from: 17.00 – 22.30 Website: www.silavadeeresort.com

20% Discount Voucher Use your smart phone to scan the QR code

FOR TAXI: ร้านอยู่ในโรงแรมศิลาวดี พูล สปา รีสอร์ท ซอยเดียวกับโรงแรมเรอเนซอง

48

ROYAL THAI, INDIAN, JAPANESE & CHINESE

Drink Gallery

Beach Baan Samui Resort McDonald’s

Drink Gallery (The Library) Saver Mart

Chaba Resort

Chaweng Beach Road

Semi-minimalist and totally chic, the Drink Gallery is an alternative dining platform unseen in Koh Samui – offering both unique and traditional cocktails and smoothies in a laid-back atmosphere and sophisticated vibe. Feast on tasty West-Meets-East cuisine with a homey feel and a fantastic assortment of authentic Thai tapas at affordable prices. Choose between the air-conditioned restaurant or sit out either on the decked terrace or the new Tapas Bar to people-watch. Open from 4PM onwards, this one-of-a-kind bistro bar comes into its own as evening sets in. There’s nightly live entertainment too.

MENU SAMPLE:

INFORMATION:

01. Samui Rangoon: Local Seafood & Cream Cheese Stuffing with Sour Lemongrass Dip 02. DG’s Salad: Tender Mesclun Mix, Roasted Chicken, Diced Ham, Berries & Salmon in Housemade Dressing 03. Roasted Garlic Raviolis with Roasted Mushrooms, Garlic Crema & Parsley 04. Lamb Massaman with Chili, Coconut Milk & New Potatoes 05. Spaghetti Carbonara on Cheese Wheel 06. 22 variants of authentic Thai tapas at the new Tapas Bar (99 Bt per plate) 07. Happy Hour cocktails from 4PM-8PM at two drinks for the price of one

Contact: 077 422 299 Average cost per person: 600 Bt Net Credit Cards: VISA, Master, AMEX, JCB, Union Pay Open: Daily from 4PM till 1AM Website: www.thelibrary.co.th/drink-gallery.html Email: rsvn@thelibrary.co.th Follow us: facebook.com/librarysamui

FOR TAXI: ร้Ò¹Íยู่ã¹à´ÍÐäźÃÒÃÕè ËÒ´à©Ç§ àÂ×éͧ¡Ñºà«¿àÇÍร์ÁÒร์·

EAST MEETS WEST

49

SALA Restaurant

n To

Chef Chom’s (Tongsai Bay)

g iR oa

d

Big Buddha

SALA Restaurant at SALA Samui

Sa

Mini Golf International

Hotel The White House Chaweng Beach Road

Imperial Boat House Chaweng

SALA Restaurant is an exceptional blend of style and taste. Enjoy mouthwatering international cuisine and traditional Thai delicacies in a romantic setting, with candlelit tables by the beach, and poolside dining under the stars.

MENU SAMPLE:

INFORMATION:

01. FERN SHOOT SALAD - Local fern shoots with squid, prawn, minced pork fillet and egg with a sauce of coconut and chilli - 395 Baht

Contact: 077 245 888 Average cost per person: 1,100 Bt (3 courses) House wine per bottle: 1,450 Bt House wine per glass: 250-390 Bt Credit cards: Visa, Master, Amex, Diners Service & tax: 10% service charge & 7% VAT will be applied to the above charges Popular Dish: A Lovely Apple Entertainment: Beach Dining: Monday, Friday Thai Night: Wednesday Executive Chef: Nick Hall Open from: 07:00 to 23:00 Web: www.salasamui.com

02. EARL OF SALMON - Tea cured Scottish salmon with bergamot gel, cucumber, dill mayonnaise and pickled apple, salmon roe - 395 Baht 03. OX CHEEK RED CURRY - 5 hour braised Wagyu beef cheeks with a red curry of baby corn, egg plants, Thai basil, kaffir lime and fresh coriander - 575 Baht 04. BARRAMUNDI - Roasted sea bass, saffron pumpkin Thai puree, roasted pumpkin, chicken wing lollipop, black rice, lemongrass sauce - 575 Baht 05. A LOVELY APPLE - Set caramel custard with apple gel, apple spheres, cinnamon cremeux, ginger streusel and a spiced apple ice cream - 290 Baht

50

EAST MEETS WEST

FOR TAXI: ร้Ò¹µÑé§Íยู่ã¹âçáÃÁ ÈÒÅÒÊÁØ ã¡ล้¡ÑºâçáÃÁ à´ÍÐäÇท์ àÎÒส์ ËÒ´àªÔ§Á¹ต์

Stacked

Beach

Central Festival

The Library Chaweng Beach Road McDonald’s

Stacked

OZO Chaweng Samui

Located at OZO Samui on Chaweng Beach Road, Stacked offers the beach goers and locals a vibrant new dining experience. A contemporary take on ‘diner’ meets ‘bistro’, Stacked serves American and international comfort food with a twist. Open from 12pm-12am, it’s the perfect spot to watch the world go by, whilst catching up with friends in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.

MENU SAMPLE: 01. 2x Duck - Pan Roasted Breast, Confit Leg, Lentil Puree, Chorizo, Sautéed Rocket, Almond, Black & Gold Raisin, Demi-glace - 495Bt 02. Greek Tower - Tomato, Cucumber, Bell Pepper, Olive, Feta, Baby Greens, Crisp Flat Bread, Preserved Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette - 245Bt 03. BBQ Ribs - Slow Cooked & Grilled Pork Ribs, Sour Cream & Chive Mashed Potato, Sweet Corn, Grilled Onions, Crisp Greens & Choice of Pineapple Rum BBQ or Ginger Teriyaki Sauce - 445 Bt 04. Samui Bad Boy - Slow Cooked Pulled Pork, Pineapple Rum BBQ, Cheddar, Jalapeno, Salsa Verde, Salad, Chili Lime Bun - 395Bt 05. The Cowboy - Angus Beef Burger, Pineapple Rum BBQ Sauce, Crispy Onion Rings, Cheddar Cheese, Bacon, Salad, Black Sesame Bun - 385Bt 06. Rib Eye Steak: Australian Wagyu, Condabri Ranch 300g - 1,175 Bt 07. Grand Marnier Sangria - 169Bt 08. Nicely Stacked - 250Bt 09. Mojito - 260Bt 10. Bashed & Battered - 250Bt

INFORMATION:

Contact: 077 915 222 Executive Chef: Matthew Rubin Average cost per person: 800 Bt House wine per bottle: 850 Bt Credit cards: Visa, Master, Amex Service & Tax: 7% and 10% Open: Daily from 12pm-12am Sports & Events: Two large screens dedicated to showing all the major sporting events live from across the world so that you don’t miss a beat.

Live Music: From 8pm-10pm live on our covered outdoor terrace every Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.

Website: www.stacked-samui.com

FOR TAXI: ร้านตั้งอยู่ส่วนด้านหน้าติดถนนเลียบหาดเฉวง ของโรงแรมโอโซ่ EAST MEETS WEST

51

The Page

Beach Baan Samui Resort McDonald’s

The Page (The Library) Saver Mart

Chaba Resort

Chaweng Beach Road

Holding fort on the Chaweng beachfront is The Library’s iconic restaurant, The Page. With a menu offering of rare, old-kingdom Thai and international cuisine and a host of “Original Experiences” found nowhere else, the renowned venue has already made its mark on Koh Samui’s upscale dining scene. Enjoy the sunrise with a signature “Breakfast Culture” on the beach or a light casual lunch overlooking the sea. Then chill out at the Beach Bar with its 101 unique cocktail selections and live music during daily Happy Hours from 5PM-7PM. Fine innovative cuisines are also available for dinner.

MENU SAMPLE: 01. Savory Crab Crêpe Bites with Seasoned Coconut & Shrimp 02. Braised Beef Shank with Shrimp Paste & Thai Basil 03. Ox Cheek Massaman Curry 04. Stir-fried Duck Confit with Onions & Pepper 05. Coconut & Young Rice Fritters with Pandan Pudding 06. Tenderloin of Wagyu Beef MBS 9+ 07. Baked Whole Fresh Seabass with Potatoes & Buttered Veggies 08. Samrab Thai: 8-course degustation menu featuring authentic Thai dishes 09. Starlit Dinnerscapes: Romantic private dinners along a white sand beach

52

EAST MEETS WEST

INFORMATION:

Contact: 077 422 767-8 Average cost per person: 1,000 Bt House wine per bottle: 1,500/1,800 Bt Credit cards: Visa, Master, Amex, JCB, Union Pay Service & Tax: 7% and 10% Popular Dish: 01, No.3, No.6, No.8 Open from: Breakfast Culture 07:00 – 10:30 Lunch 11:00 – 16:00 Tea by the Sea 13:00 – 15:00 Dinner 19:00 – 24:00 Beach Bar 11:00 – 24:00 Website: www.thelibrary.co.th E-mail: rsvn@thelibrary.co.th Follow us: facebook.com/librarysamui

FOR TAXI: ร้Ò¹Íยู่ã¹à´ÍÐäźÃÒÃÕè ËÒ´à©Ç§ àÂ×éͧ¡Ñºà«¿àÇÍร์ÁÒร์·

Dr Frogs

Beach Dr Frogs Chaweng

View Point Samui Ring Road

Best Western Samui Bayview

Lamai

“Finding a more scenic place to enjoy a meal on Samui would be hard” Dr Frogs is situated in Chaweng Noi right next door to the View Point. It boasts the perfect location, the most attentive staff, and excellent Italian & Thai cuisine. Satisfying even the toughest critics from the Thailand Tatler magazine to include it as one of Thailand’s best restaurant in 2013 and 2014.

MENU SAMPLE:

01. Linguine Frutti di Mare Mixed local shell fish, tiger prawns and squid in a light garlic, chili and tomato source.

02. Lobster Thermidor Oven baked lobster in tarragon and cream sauce with shallots and Parmesan shavings on a bed of lettuce 03. Risotto Porcini An Italian classic, with sautéed porcini mushrooms in white wine 04. Roasted rack of New Zealand lamb With red wine sauce and truffle scented mash potatoes 05. Red Hot pizza Home made pork sausage, pepperoni, black olives, fresh and dried chilli 06. Mango Cheese Cake

INFORMATION:

Reservation: 077 448 505, 093 620 1517 House wine per bottle: 1,490 Bt House wine per glass: 280 Bt Food: Italian cuisine, also breakfast and Thai menus Executive Chef: Massimo Mariani Credit cards: Visa, Master Card, Amex Open From: Daily 7am for breakfast until 11pm Entertainment: Live Music every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 7.30 pm Follow us: facebook.com/drfrogs Free WiFi Web: www.drfrogssamui.com Email: deliciousfood@drfrogssamui.com

Voted 2013, 2014 & 2015 as one of Thailand’s best restaurants

FOR TAXI: ร้Ò¹Íยู่เฉวงน้อย ใกล้กับจุดชมวิว ITALIAN, FRENCH, MEDITERRANEAN

53

Full Moon

Beach Fisherman’s Beach Road

Full Moon, char grill restaurant (Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort) Maenam

Bophut Main Road

Pier to Phangan

Chaweng

Contemporary Koh Samuian style char-grilled by Executive Chef Christoph Lindner, elegant al fresco deck overlooking the resort’s charming lily pond garden and shoreline pool by the sea.

Table-side preparation, salt trolley and steak knives selection. Freshly caught seafood to tender melt-in-your-mouth meats.

MENU SAMPLE: 01. Frisee Salad Serrano Ham, Poached Egg , White Anchovies, Garlic Bread, Radish 02. Octopus Carpaccio Chang Mai Greens, Citrus, Caviar 03. Canadian Lobster Bisque Lobster Ravioli, Prawns, Vegetables 04. New York Black Angus 250gm 05. Wild Caught Turbot 200gm 06. Roasted Organic Chicken Breast 200gm

INFORMATION: Contact: +66 77 428 300 Average cost per person: 1,250 THB House wine per bottle: 1,400 THB Service & Tax: 7% Govt tax & 10% Service Charge Executive Chef: Christoph Lindner Event: Quarterly Wine Dinner Open from: 12:00 noon – 10:30 pm Email: bophutsamui@anantara.com

* 4, 5 & 6 - Side dish & sauce of your choice

FOR TAXI: ร้Ò¹Íยู่ã¹âçáÃÁ ͹ѹµÃÒ บ่อผุด สมุย ÃÕÊÍร์· ËÒ´บ่ͼش

54

ITALIAN, FRENCH, MEDITERRANEAN

H Bistro

Beach Fisherman’s Beach Road H Bistro (Hansar Samui) Maenam

Bophut Main Road

Pier to Phangan

Chaweng

Strongly focused on providing cuisine at the highest level, the resort’s signature dining experience, H-Bistro features a fresh French Mediterranean menu and exclusive wine list. Enjoy true Mediterranean spices merged together with ingredients ranging from imported fresh Maine lobster and oysters from Canada, Japan, and France.

MENU SAMPLE:

INFORMATION:

01.Foie Gras from the Soulard farm in France’s Perigord region which is famous for having the best quality available 02. Maine Lobsters freshly flown in from Canada, Japan and France 03. Atlantic Deep Sea Red Prawns caught at a depth of 2,000 meters 04. Ibierico Pork a highly prized commodity with an aged, nutty and delightfully funky flavor 05. Bresse Royal Pigeon a much sought after French delicacy featured on many top 3-star Michelin Star Chefs menus 06. Madagascar Prawns famous for their sweetness and best eaten chilled 07. Gillardeau French Oysters The Gillardeau family’s small private company was founded in 1898 in Bourcefranc-leChampus near La Rochelle and The lle d’oleron in western France. They produce only ‘speciales,’ oysters that are fleshier and consequently, more expensive

Contact: 077 245 511 Open: Breakfast : 6.30 am - 10.30 am Lunch: 11.30 am - 3.00 pm Dinner: 6.00 pm - 11.00 pm Executive Chef: Stephen Jean Dion Total seating capacity: 74 seats (46 seats inside and 28 seats outside) Credit cards: Visa, Master, JCB, Amex and Diner Club Website: www.hansarsamui.com email: reservation@hansarsamui.com

FOR TAXI: ร้านตั้งอยู่ในโรงแรมหรรษา สมุย หาดบ่อผุด ในฟิชเชอร์แมน วิลเลจ ITALIAN, FRENCH, MEDITERRANEAN

55

Olivio

Beach Olivio (Baan Haad Ngam Boutique Resort & Villas) To Airport

Choeng Mon

Chaweng

The Larder

An Italian restaurant mix with Thai cuisine. Offering traditional Italian and Thai cuisine in the ground of Baan Haad Ngam Boutique Resort & Villas. Our food is prepared by Thai chefs with only the finest and freshest ingredients. Olivio has a unique charm and everything you need to enjoy an authentic meal experience.

MENU SAMPLE: 01.Gnocchi di patate al gorgonzola Potatoes dumpling in gorgonzola cheese cream sauce - 350 Bt 02.Calzone Pizza - Tomato, Mozzarella, Artichoke, Mushroom, Ham - 370 Bt 03.Fettuccine con salmone allo zafferano - Homemade Fettuccine with salmon in saffron cream sauce - 350 Bt 04.Parma Ham & Rocket - Tomato, Mozzarella, Rocket, Parma Ham, Mascarpone - 490 Bt 05.Capelli d’angelo con gamberi Homemade angel hair pasta with prawns, garlic, white wine and tomato sauce - 350 Bt 06.Crema di Zucca con Mascapone Punmpkin soup with mascaopne cream cheese - 220 Bt

INFORMATION:

Contact: 077 231 500-8 Average cost per person: 950 Bt House wine per bottle: 1,200 Bt House wine per glass: 240 Bt Credit card: Visa, Master, Amex, JCB Service & Tax: All prices are subject to 7% government tax.

Recommended: No.01, 02, 05 Open time Breakfast: 06.30 am – 10.30 am Lunch: 11.00 am – 03.00 pm Dinner: 05.00 pm – 11.00 pm (Italian & Thai cuisine) Website: www.baanhaadngam.com Email: booking@baanhaadngam.com Free transfer to our restaurant in Chaweng Beach – Choeng mon Beach (advance booking required)

FOR TAXI: ร้Ò¹Íยู่ในโรงแรมบ้านหาดงามบูทิครีสอร์ทแอนด์วิลล่าส์

56

ITALIAN, FRENCH, MEDITERRANEAN

Red Snapper

Thai Farmer Bank

Beach Red Snapper (Chaweng Regent Beach Resort) Chaweng Beach Road Nora Chaweng Hotel The Islander

McDonald

Samui’s premier dining and entertainment venue, Red Snapper Restaurant & Bar offers Mediterranean Fusion dishes. Our attentive staff provides great, personal service and our unrivaled live entertainment takes an evening at Red Snapper beyond just dining. Open daily till midnight with live music every night except Sundays.

MENU SAMPLE:

INFORMATION:

01. Duck Carpaccio - with olive tapenade, foie gras and dash of truffle oil and trumpet mushrooms - 350 Bt

Contact: 077 300 500 Average cost per person: 850 Bt House wine per glass: 160 Bt House wine per bottle from: 750 Bt Credit cards: Visa, Master, Amex Service & Tax: 10% service charge & 7% Vat Popular Dishes: Red Snapper Fillet Entertainment: Live Music except Sunday Open from: Daily 5.00 PM - Midnight Executive Chef: Chef Lisa Lang Web: www.redsnappersamui.com Email: manager@redsnappersamui.com Follow us: facebook.com/redsnapperrestaurant Free WiFi

02. Gnocchi Tiger Prawn - with truffle cream and crispy shallots - 390 Bt 03. Fettuccini Allo Scoglio - Scallop, prawn, squid, green mussels , tomato sauce, parsley and white wine - 450 Bt 04. Red Snapper green curry sauce Served with rice and grilled vegetable - 450 Bt 05. Salmon with crispy nori - Salmon roe, cauliflower puree and miso sauce - 490 Bt 06. Red Snapper fillets - Black ravioli with saffron, crab, prawn, asparagus, white wine & cream - 590 Bt 07. Surf N Turf - Australian beef tenderloin ,Hokkaido scallop, tiger prawn carrot ginger puree - 990 Bt

FOR TAXI: ร้านนี้ ตั้งอยู่ ติดกับโรงแรมเฉวง รีเจ้นท์ บีช รีสอร์ท ITALIAN, FRENCH, MEDITERRANEAN

57

The Cliff

Beach Beverly Hills View Point Chaweng

The Cliff Samui Ring Road

IT Complex Lamai

The Cliff Bar & Grill is more than just a fabulous location. The food presents a grand tour of the Mediterranean, with an accent of Portuguese and Italian. The drink list is fantastic too, perfectly enjoyed at The Cliff Bar, itself a distinctive Samui favourite.

MENU SAMPLE:

Voted 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2014 & 2015 as one of Thailand’s best restaurants

01. Cozza al vino bianco - N.Z Mussels in our creamy white wine sauce. A traditional Italian recipe - 420 Bt 02. Gambas al pil pil - Portuguese Piri Piri Prawns. A Portuguese specialty - 420 Bt 03. Fettucine All Gambetti all Cognac Tiger prawns served in a Cognac and cream sauce - 540 Bt 04. Australian Fillet 250g - 21 Day aged imported Grain fed Steer - 1,180 Bt 05. Zarzuela De Marisco Seafood Platter - Imported Live Atlantic Lobster, King Scallops, N.Z Mussels, Calamari, Tiger Prawns and fresh Fish Served with Spanish rice, Salad or French Fries - 3,280 Bt 06. Fresh Imported Oysters 6pcs - 890 baht

58

ITALIAN, FRENCH, MEDITERRANEAN

INFORMATION: Contact: 077 448 508 or 081 913 2002 Average Cost Per person: 1,200 Bt House wine per bottle: 1,495 Bt Credit cards: Visa, Master Card, Amex, Union Pay , JCB Service & Tax: 10% service charge & 7% Gov. tax Popular Dish: Seafood Platter (No.5) Corkage Fee: 600 baht Open From: 12:00-22:00 (kitchen)

12:00-01:00 (Bar)

12:00-17:00 (Tapas Bar) Entertainment: Guest DJs Friday Web: www.TheCliffSamui.com

FOR TAXI: ร้Ò¹Íยู่º¹Ëน้Ò¼ÒÃÐËว่Ò§à©Ç§¡ÑºÅÐäÁ ã¡ล้æ¡ÑººÔê¤ร๊ͤ

The Dining Room

Hin Ta & Hin Yai Lamai Angkor

Beach The Dining Room (Rocky’s Resort) Overlap Stone

Hua Thanon Lipa Noi

The Dining Room is probably the most beautiful restaurant on the island. Tucked away in a secluded cove south of Lamai right on the ocean front, The Dining Room serves an excellent selection of French-Mediterranean cuisine in a delightfully casual, yet elegant environment.

Perfect for a romantic evening for two, or for the whole family.

MENU SAMPLE:

INFORMATION:

01. Seared French foie gras with caramelized strawberry, mesclun leaves, warmed brioche and Xerez jus 02. Hokkaido scallops with pumpkin and cauliflower mousseline, baby spinach, and toasted pumpkin seed 03. Butter poached Canadian lobster with bordelaise sauce, sweet carrots, shallots, mushrooms and baby turnips, beetroot chip 04. Seared fillet of snow fish with curry and saffron broth, wilted leek, celeriac and fondant potato 05. Roasted fillet of line caught sea bass with steamed new potatoes, oyster mushroom beignet, roasted tomato and artichoke 06. Classic Tournedos Rossini, grain fed tenderloin and foie gras poêle, pommes château and Madeira sauce 07. Roasted breast of French quail stuffed with foie gras, crispy quail legs, potato puree, artichoke, shoyu and quail jus.

Contact: 077 233 020 Average cost per person: 900 Bt House wine per glass: 250 Bt Credit cards: Visa, Master, Amex Service & tax: 7% Tax & 10% Service Charge Popular Dish: No 1, 4 and 6 Events: Every Tuesday night: Thai buffet night (4 Regions) with Thai dance show Every Thursday: Rocky’s famous BBQ beach party with fire dance show Entertainment: Live Music most nights!

Operation hours: 5.30pm to 11.00pm Executive Chef: Chef Pamon Web: www.rockyresort.com

the dining room

BOUTIQUE RESORT KOH SAMUI

FOR TAXI: ร้Ò¹¹ÕéµÑé§Íยูã่ ¹âçáÃÁ Ãçͤ¡Õé ÃÕÊÍร์· ÃÐËว่Ò§ ËÔ¹µÒËÔ¹ÂÒ¡ѺËÑǶ¹¹ã¡ล้¡ÑºÇÑ´ÈÔÅÒ§Ù ITALIAN, FRENCH, MEDITERRANEAN

59

BEYOND THE SEA

Beach Hua Thanon Lamai

Samui Ring Road

Samui Aquarium

Butterfly Garden Li pa No i

BEYOND THE SEA (ShaSa Resort & Residences, Koh Samui)

BEYOND THE SEA opens daily from morning for breakfast continues to ShaSa sunny afternoon and besides sweets from After You, BEYOND THE SEA also pampers its guests by Tantalising Thai Tapas, finest coffee, special blends from the best quality coffee beans. As the night falls, imported wines and champagnes which are well-selected by sommelier of ShaSa Resort & Residences.

CHEF’S RECOMMENDATION:

INFORMATION:

Herbal Tuna Herb-crusted tuna, served with roasted potato and boiled vegetable ทูน่าสมุนไพร 750 Bt

Contact: 077 913 888 Average cost per person: 700 Bt House wine per glass: 300 Bt Credit cards: All Major Cards Service & Tax: 7% Tax and 10% Service Charge Popular Dish: Herbal Tuna Open from: 07:00 am - 22:00 pm Web: www.shasahotels.com

Mee Kiew Goong Pu Egg noodle and prawn wonton soup with crab meat, Chinese cabbage and bean sprouts บะหมี่เกี๊ยวกุ้งและเนื้อปู - 350 Bt Mee Grob Goong Manggorn Crispy egg noodle with lobster in gravy sauce ราดหน้าหมี่กรอบกุ้งมังกร - 1,250 Bt Spaghetti Panaeng Nue Spaghetti with grilled sirloin steak, dressed with rich Panaeng curry sauce สปาเก็ตตี้แพนงเนื้อย่าง - 650 Bt Pineapple Mojito - 270 Bt

60

INTERNATIONAL, THAI & SEAFOOD

FOR TAXI: ร้Ò¹Íยู่ã¹โรงแรมชาซ่า รีสอร์ท แอนด์ เรสซิเดนซ์ แหลมเส็ด ทางไปบัตเตอร์ฟลายการ์เดนท์

MOON Fully air-condition and surrounded in beautiful teak wood, Moon offers you all-day dining experiences from extensive breakfast buffet and A la Carte menu into romantic dining experiences under the moonlight. It offers varieties of International and Mediterranean cuisine for dinner.

SUN MOON STAR at SILAVADEE POOL SPA RESORT 208/66 Moo 4, Maret, Koh Samui Suratthani 84310, Thailand Tel. 077 960 555 Fax 077 960 055

Website: www.silavadeeresort.com Facebook: Silavadee Pool Spa Resort Instagram: @silavadeeresort

Free transfer to our restaurant in Lamai area, and more than 4 guests from anywhere on Koh Samui (advance booking required)

Hard Rock Cafe

Beach Sound Hotel Samui Xin City Samui

Chaweng Beach Road Spago’ Restaurant

Hard Rock Cafe Koh Samui

Central Festival

Hard Rock Cafe’s design is inspired by the natural setting and textures of Koh Samui, and is filled with natural stone and wood accents and surfaces. It features indoor section for up to 200 guests, a vibrant bar, a spacious outdoor patio with seating for 100 more guests and an outdoor bar area facing the concert stage, where you can enjoy live music and entertainment each night.

MENU SAMPLE:

INFORMATION:

01. Jumbo Combo: A collection of our most popular appetizers: Signature Wings, Onion Rings, Tupelo Chicken Tenders, Spinach Artichoke Dip with Parmesan flatbread, Bruschetta or Potato Skins. Served with honey mustard, hickory barbecue, sour cream and blue cheese dressing - 769 Bt 02. Hard Rock Nachos: Tortilla chips piled high and layered with three bean mix, Monetary Jack and cheddar cheeses, pico de gallo, jalapeños and green onions. Garnished with sour cream - 549 Bt 03. Hickory Barbecue Bacon Cheeseburger: 8oz Burger basted with hickory barbecue sauce and topped with caramelized onions, cheddar cheese, smoked bacon, crisp lettuce and vine-ripened tomato - 769 Bt 04. Hickory-Smoked Ribs: Fall-off-the-bone tender St. Louis-style ribs, rubbed with our signature seasonings and basted with hickory barbecue sauce - 879 Bt

Contact: +66 (0) 77 901 208 / +66 (0) 77 901 209 Average Cost per Person: From 500 Bt Wine by bottle: From 1,649 Bt Credit Cards: Visa, Master Card, Amex, JCB, Diners, Union Pay Service & Tax: 10% service charge included Subject to 7% Government Tax Popular Dish: 01, 02, 03 & 04 Open From: 10:00 Am – 2:00 AM (Rock Shop) 11:30 Am – 2:00 AM (Restaurant) Entertainment: Live Music every night starting 7:30 PM until Late.

Web: www.hardrock.com/cafes/koh-samui

62

INTERNATIONAL, THAI & SEAFOOD

FOR TAXI: ร้Ò¹Íยู่ถนนเลียบหาดเฉวง ใกล้กับโรงแรมซินซิตี้

Moon

IT Complex building Chaweng

Beach Moon (Silavadee Pool Spa Resort) Renaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa Samui Ring Road

The Spa Resort Lamai

Fully air-condition and surrounded in beautiful teak wood, Moon offers you all-day dining experiences from extensive breakfast buffet and A la Carte menu into romantic dining experiences under the moonlight. It offers varieties of International and Mediterranean cuisine for dinner.

Moon is a dream dining and relaxing location and all with the same breathtaking view and elegant, exciting and romantic atmosphere.

MENU SAMPLE: 01. Fresh Tuna Tartare 02. Lamb Garam masala 03. South West Tomatoes soup 04. Beef Tournedos Rossini 05. Chicken Gruyere 06. Mixed grilled Seafood 07. Seafood Bouilabaise 08. Plancha Sea bass 20% Discount Voucher

INFORMATION:

Contact: 077 960 555 Average cost per person: 750 Bt House wine per bottle: 1,400 Bt House wine per glass: 350 Bt Credit card: Visa, Master, Amex, Diners, JCB Service & Tax: Taxes and service charges are INCLUDED in all Silavadee prices Recommended: Beef Tournedos Rossini Open: Breakfast: 06.00 – 11.00 Lunch: 11.00 – 17.00 Dinner: 7.00 – 22.30 (International cuisine) Website: www.silavadeeresort.com

Use your smart phone to scan the QR code Free transfer to our restaurant in Lamai area, and more than 4 guests from anywhere on Koh Samui (advance booking required)

FOR TAXI: ร้านอยู่ในโรงแรมศิลาวดี พูล สปา รีสอร์ท ซอยเดียวกับโรงแรมเรอเนซอง INTERNATIONAL, THAI & SEAFOOD

63

OceanKiss

Beach Nora Beach Resort Choeng Mon Frangipani Bay To Airport

Coral Bay Resort

OceanKiss (Anantara Lawana Resort & Spa) Chaweng

“OceanKiss” located on the beach of Anantara Lawana Resort offering outdoor dining with wonderful panoramic views across the Gulf of Thailand serving a carefully designed a la carte menu of Thai specialities and Italian favourites to give you all a delightful selection to choose from. Open for Lunch and dinner you can enjoy the wonders of Thai cuisine or the international appeal of Italian gastronomy while the sea laps the shore in front of your very eyes. The menu is complemented with an extensive wine list which will be carefully explained by the in house Wine Guru.

MENU SAMPLE:

INFORMATION:

01. Australian Tenderloin Fiorentina Style Grilled Australian beef tenderloin with creamy baby spinach, nutmeg, roasted beetroot,carrots and gorgonzola cream sauce

Contact: 077 960 333 Average cost per person: 700 Bt House wine per bottle: 1,200 Bt Credit Cards: Visa, Master, Amex Service & Tax: 7% tax & 10% service charge Executive Chef: Azizskandar Awang Open from: 11.30 to 23.00 Web: www.lawana-chaweng.anantara.com

02. Tuna Tartare Marinated in classical way with capers, cornichon and red onion served with aioli, avocado and crouton 03. Crab Cake Carpaccio of Japanese cucumber, honey mustard dressing, roasted tomato and baby spinach salad 04. Duck Leg in Red Curry Sauce Spiced duck leg confit, red curry sauce, seasonal fruits and shallots Campfire Every Friday from 7 pm.onward With your loved ones Grill your own seafood or meats Don’t forget your favorite beer!

64

INTERNATIONAL, THAI & SEAFOOD

FOR TAXI: ร้านตั้งอยู่ในโรงแรม อนันตรา ลาวาณา รีสอร์ท แอนด์สปา หาดเฉวง

The Larder

Beach Nora Beach Resort Choeng Mon Frangipani Bay To Airport

Coral Bay Resort

Anantara Lawana Resort & Spa Chaweng The Larder

Now into its third year, the Larder has cemented its reputation as one of the most talked about restaurants on the island, consist¬ently delighting Samui residents, holidaymakers and hardcore foodophiles, alike. Boasting an unpretentious attitude and serving good honest grub, expertly crafted and impec¬cably presented, The Larder could be equally at home in any major metropolis the world over. And yet here it is, tucked away in an unassuming stretch of Samui ring road, far from the throngs of bustling Chaweng without a beach in sight, still creating a very real bustle of its own. So what is the continued recipe for success? Well obviously fine fare, an ever-innovative cocktail selection and good vibes make this restaurant worth its salt.

DINNER MENU SAMPLE:

INFORMATION:

01. Taco Belle - Fresh tuna tartar in miniature tacos sesame mayonnaise, teriyaki sauce

Cuisine: Contemporary European Contact: 077 601 259 Average cost per person: 1,200 THB Credit card: Visa, Amex, Mastercard Service & Tax: Government Tax 7% Open: 12pm – 10pm Daily Email: hungry@thelardersamui.com Website: www.thelardersamui.com

02. Scotch Egg - Soft yolk Scotch duck egg asparagus for dipping with The Larder pickle 03. Cheese The One (v) - Cheddar brûlée walnut pesto, whole grain bread 04. Belly Legal - Slow cooked pork belly sweet potato puree, candied pecans, pickled shallots 05. Lambunctious - Oven roasted rack of lamb fondant potatoes, green peas, beetroot puree, mint jelly 06. The Fluffer - Dark chocolate fondant, salted caramel ice cream

FOR TAXI: ร้านอาหารเดอะ ลาร์เดอร์ สมุย ตั้งอยู่เยื้องโรงแรม อนันตรา ลาวาณา รีสอร์ทแอนด์สปา หาดเฉวง INTERNATIONAL, THAI & SEAFOOD

65

FLAVOURS OF SAMUI Christoph Lindner Executive Chef

Born and bred in cosmopolitan Luxemburg, Christoph grew up with a love of French food and cooking and went on to study at the impressive Paul Bocuse Institute, France, where he qualified for a Diploma of Culinary Arts and Management. He further honed his culinary skills in Europe, working in Michelin-starred restaurants and then being part of catering teams for events such as the World Cup. He then started looking for fresh challenges further afield and came to Thailand. “What I love about working here,” he says, “is that the whole Thai culture is all about cooking and eating. As well as that you are in the centre of things; Thailand is midway between Australia, Europe and Bangkok is one of the top five gastronomic cities in the world.”

Christoph has been constantly inspired since setting foot in Asia and has worked in a number of establishments in Phuket, Bangkok and Samui. As executive chef at Full Moon char grill restaurant at the Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort on the West End of Fisherman Village he is in charge of the international fare that is on offer and ensures that the restaurant is constantly looking to improve on its already very impressive track record.

Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort Contact: 077 428 300-9 www.samui.anantara.com

eating on samui MARCO BOSCAINI Chef Marco is much like the food he makes: warmhearted, convivial and engaging. His style is to do things from scratch and produce the kind of casual yet sophisticated dishes that a family would gather to eat at a restaurant back home in his native Italy. He’s an exceptionally good chef and is able to guarantee superb tastes thanks to both his considerable know-how and his insistence on using very fresh, very high-quality products and ingredients.

If you visit Prego, where he’s been the chef since the restaurant opened in 2003, you’re bound to see Marco, as he likes to ascertain from his guests what they’d like and how they want their food prepared. This gives him the upper edge when it comes to pleasing diners – he’s not locked away in the kitchen. He definitely believes in the personal touch and his style is one that gets him many accolades as well as repeat diners. So if you have a question, just ask him. It goes without saying that Marco’s an expert not just on food but on wines too – and knows just what goes best with every dish.

Prego Amari Koh Samui Tel: 077 300 317 or 077 300 306 www.prego-samui.com

FLAVOURS OF SAMUI Somchai Chomchuen Chef Chai’s roots stretch beyond the shores of Samui to the northern capital of Chiang Mai where his passion for Thai cuisine was born in the comforts of his family kitchen. As a youth, he delighted in helping his mother in the preparation of the family’s meals and became inspired by the sights and smells which surrounded him.

This curiosity for all things culinary was nurtured during his formative years until he took on apprenticeship roles at local Thai eateries in Pattaya and Bangkok following his education. As a means to expose himself to service operations, he assumed a position at Vertigo, Banyan Tree Bangkok’s al fresco rooftop restaurant and bar, where he remained for five years under the guidance of Banyan Tree’s Director of Cuisine.

As Banyan Tree Samui was set to launch in 2010, his desire to return to the kitchen was fulfilled when he joined the pre-opening team at Saffron. Under the tutelage of Banyan Tree’s Corporate Chef, he refined his skills to swiftly rise to become Thai Sous Chef at the resort’s signature restaurant where he serves delectable dishes from all regions of Thailand. As the recipient of Thailand Tatler’s Best Restaurant award on three occasions, his team has been further inspired to continue embracing the fresh and fragrant ingredients of the country, and to craft menu options that are uniquely their own.

From humble beginnings to resounding success, Chef Chai exemplifies the spirit of Banyan Tree in his passion for learning, mentorship of his team and his endless desire to deliver memorable culinary experiences for guests from all corners of the globe.

Saffron Banyan Tree Samui Lamai Tel: 077 915 333 Web: www.banyantree.com/en/ap-thailand-koh-samui

eating on samui ROBERTO PARELLA Roberto Parella was born in 1987, Brusciano City of Italy. At the age of 11 years old, showed his talent for cooking and started working at his uncle’s Neapolitan pizzeria during school summer breaks.

After he finished school, he started his culinary career seriously in restaurants around Napoli, specializing in Neapolitan pizza and Neapolitan pasta.

His first challenge outside Italy was in Germany. After 1 year in Germany, he got a great opportunity to work in Beijing and Vietnam as a culinary trainer.

After 2 years in Asia, he moved back to Italy and worked as a restaurant consultant. Then he was approached by Chef Paolo, who he met in China 5 years ago, to work for Peppina project in Thailand. Roberto now has settled down in Thailand for 2 years.

What he loves the most in his career is to cook for people on special occasions, celebrations or holiday seasons.

The great joy is to see people laughing and smiling while appreciating his food.

The Malibu Beach Resort Chaweng Beach Contact: 077 231 546-9 peppina.asia

FLAVOURS OF SAMUI AMPORN CHOENG-NGAM Chef Amporn, known as Chef Berm, has been appointed as the new Executive Chef at Conrad Koh Samui. He joins the culinary team of this luxury pool villa resort from one of the award-wining hotels in Chiang Mai where he oversees all culinary operations.

With a strong culinary pedigree and extensive experience both in Thailand and at the international level, Chef Berm has gained many years of experiences from hotels and resorts in several countries including Thailand, Ukraine, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia where he worked for Princess Hassah bint Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia as a private chef, to oversee the team of master chefs preparing healthy and spa cuisine.

Chef Berm has joined many culinary training programs during his career path in the kitchen, including a certificate in culinary education of Food Science from Aldara Hospital Saudi Arabia in 2010. He has won some recognitions and prestigious awards for his culinary excellence including his first international award, the Gold medal from the cooking competition held in Bali (2005).

Working in many luxurious hotels and resorts for over 20 years, Chef Berm is now ready to create new exciting dishes and a memorable culinary experience for discerning diners at the resort’s fine dining restaurant, Jahn.

With his outgoing personality and infinite creativity knowledge in Thai cuisine, as well as contemporary Thai and spa cuisines, Chef Berm is now welcoming all resort guests and other visitors on Koh Samui who wish to learn the secret of Thai cooking techniques with freshest recipe at Conrad Koh Samui’s Thai Cooking Classes.

Jahn Conrad Koh Samui Tel: 077 915 888

eating on samui NICK HALL

Executive Chef Originating from Nottingham in the UK, Nick has been residing in Thailand for over ten years. After completing a formal culinary training program in his native country he went on to work for both country house hotels and stand alone gourmet modern British restaurants.

After taking a year to explore the world Nick decided to make Thailand his home and headed to Phangan island to create his very own fine dining restaurant called Me’n’u in partnership with wife Ann. After two years at the helm of this stunning eatery he headed over to the islands first five star resort the Rasananda.

Nick a proud father of two beautiful girls, Aimee and Maiya decided to make a move over to Samui island and take the helm of the kitchens at the prestigious SALA Samui resort and spa early in 2011.

He is known for his high standards and attention to detail with his style of cooking described as modern using only the freshest and finest ingredients available, he always insists on everything being made by hand and from the heart.

SALA Samui has a great range of options from gourmet Western with flashes of Asian to traditional Thai and modern Italian, their amazing private beach dining is just one of signature services available from Nick and his team at the resort which continues to go from strength to strength.

SALA Samui Please contact 077 245 888 www.salasamui.com

FLAVOURS OF SAMUI Sathit Muangprom “The thing I most wanted to do was be an architect,” says chef Sathit Muangprom. “I always wanted to create something special, something that would stand out.” He then discovered he also loved cooking.

However, he didn’t choose one dream over another.

He combined both and the result is 9GEMS Lounge Restaurant. Both the architecture and design of the restaurant are all his creation and are impressive in their own right. And what you eat here is equally as good, making this a dining experience to remember.

Sathit has had plenty of cooking experience. He originally learned in Thailand, where he began providing dinners for his brothers and sisters, but then went to Europe. After spending two decades in Switzerland, where he learned European cuisine, plus traveling all over the world, it’s not surprising his tastes are very eclectic.

“My favorite dishes,” he says, “are fusion tandoori chicken salad and Home-made potato gnocchi. I also love Thai-style sea-bass with chili and basil. I make lots of Italian dishes as well as French patisserie. I’m not one for ready-made food from a shop – I prefer to make everything by myself.”

Sathit is a great believer in multi-culturalism and aims for his food to be like the restaurant he’s built and designed – a combination of both Thai and European.

With both quality design and food, he’s succeeded in combining very different creative dreams.

9Gems Lounge Restaurant Tel: 077 256 125 www.9GEMSsamui.com

eating on samui DESH DEEPAK PANDEY Noori India’s General Manager, Desh Deepak Pandey, is better known as D.D on Samui. He holds a master’s degree in History and completed his Hotel & Tourism management from Jodhpur University in India.

After following the management training at the Hotel Leela Kempinsiki, Bombay, he returned to his native state, Rajasthan, and worked in many of the state’s premier hotels. He was general manager for the Mandawa Royal Family hotel for a number of years and received various awards from the state goverment and the Tourism Authority of India for his excellent culinary skills and hospitality services.

After Mandawa, D.D then went to Ulan Bator in Mongolia, where he opened an Indian Restuarant.

After two more years he returned to India, then his brother Amit Pandey asked him to come to Samui and help run a restaurant in Chaweng.

For the last four years, D.D has been refining and successfully running his brother’s business on Samui - Noori India. The restaurant is known as one of the finest Indian restaurants on the island and draws on the rich tapestry of Indian culture and tradition. D.D has extended the restaurant’s cope to specialize in group buffet lunches and dinners, outdoor catering in private villas and hotels, as well as Gala dinners for marriage parties. D.D is conducting cookery classes to apply his expertise in Indian cuisine by teaching enthusiastic foodies the perfect way to cook Dal, Chicken Tikka Masala and Naan in the comforts of their home.

Noori India Tel: 086 740 7873, 077 300 757, 077 413 315 Chaweng Beach Road

FLAVOURS OF SAMUI NATTANAN DEERUANG Nattanan is a brilliantly innovative chef who specializes in southern-style Thai dishes. He initially learned from his mother but soon needed fresh inspiration; too young to attend cooking school, he taught himself how to cook thanks to TV programs, learning English as he did so. His rise through the culinary ranks has been fast, thanks to his creativity and sheer capability.

He first worked in Hua Hin, before heading to Rama Garden in Bangkok, then came to Samui as part of the pre-opening team for Banyan Tree. He then went on to take part in the pre-opening of Vana Belle and is now Thai chef de cuisine.

He knows every aspect of looking after his guests and also teaches a highly popular cooking class. Nattanan is also brilliant at making western dishes as well as Japanese and Korean specialities and at producing highly customized menus for weddings, parties and other events.

Vana Belle Resort Tel: 077 915 555 www.vanabellekohsamui.com

eating on samui FRANZ J. ESTERMANN Franz fell in love with food and cooking at an early age; his parents owned a hotel in Switzerland and he was captivated by gastronomy and was soon busy in his family’s kitchens himself. After culinary college he took to a globetrotting life, gaining experience in places as far-flung as Sweden, Saudi Arabia and China, before settling in Samui.

His style is basically Mediterranean; he likes it, he says, because it combines great tastes with healthy ingredients. But thanks to so much travel – he still maintains a second home in Hong Kong – he’s able to cook dishes that originate just about anywhere in the world: Chinese, Asian and Middle-Eastern cuisine are very familiar to him.

All this has stood him in good stead at Sheraton Samui Resort, where he is now the Executive Chef; guests here come from all over the world and he’s able to cater for everyone thanks to his international experience, which are top quality and prepared with his passion for cooking.

Sheraton Samui Resort Tel: 077 422 020 www.sheratonsamui.com

FLAVOURS OF SAMUI Martin Selby Chef/Owner

Young-ish British chef Martin Selby has called Koh Samui home for almost six years now and is keen to stay on for many more years to come.

Having paid his dues at some of Samui’s well-known resort-restaurants including The Library, Beach Republic and Rockpool, Martin recently took a leap of faith and opened his very own restaurant in Chaweng, The Larder.

With his cooking philosophy centred around simplicity, Martin was keen to share his ethos with both locals and tourists alike and so began The Larder nearing the end of 2012. Working with the same principles and execution, The Larder is just as Martin always envisioned. Simple.

Good. Honest. Food The Larder features an a la carte menu that has been carefully crafted using both local and imported produce, creating a rustic casual dining experience for all to enjoy.

Further to its staple fare, three huge blackboards boast daily specials that often include fresh imported mussels, Australian oysters and sumptuous scallops pan seared to perfection!

Further to the extensive and innovative food options are the creatively inspired cocktails. The cocktails, like the food, have been hand-crafted to let the ingredients shine, making use of often overlooked ingredients such as bacon, chilli and other surprising suspects.

Desserts are not forgotten, with a never ending selection of mouth-watering decadence, or for a more savoury affair the extensive selection of International cheese brings your meal to an impressive finish.

See you… and Chef Martin…at The Larder.

The Larder Tel: 077 601 259 Web: www.thelardersamui.com

eating on samui Italian Chef

Sergio Martelli Chef Sergio hails from Ancona in Italy and trained to be a chef at a young age in order to indulge his passion for food and cooking. He came to Koh Samui 14 years ago to join a friend and has been here ever since. He loves the lifestyle on the island and cant imagine leaving.

Sergio has worked in well know restaurants in Thailand, his understanding of foreign tastes, combined with his knowledge of Thailand and its people help him run a tight kitchen producing a range of delicacies to tempt diners delights. Since opening in 2004, Sergio has been heading the kitchen team at The Cliff. He specializes in Mediterranean cuisine, creating inventive seafood concoctions as well as traditional Italian Cuisine with a hint of sophistication.

Spanish Chef

Nico Vicens Chef Nico Vicens began his career at Azurmendi Restaurant (3 Star Michelin), Larrabetzu, Spain. Since then, his repertoire has grown to include influences from his time working in and around Spain. Now bringing his expertise to Koh Samui, putting all his passion on his tapas menu, with the experience that he gained over the years, patrons can expect homemade, yet refined flavors built from the best domestic ingredients found on the island, he can say his cooking is sophisticated, fresh with lots of flavors all with his personal touch shining brilliantly through.

The Cliff Bar & Grill Tel : 077 414 266 www.TheCliffSamui.com LionelHelena@thecliffsamui.com

Be Sweet ■ Be Wild ■ Be 9Gems

Dress Code: Trendy or Smart Casual.

Minimum Age: +12 (Screaming children will not be tolerated)

3P Karaoke

Entrance

Entrance

Yupa Land & House

Rajabhat University

ce

an Entr International School

The Ville Samui

Bandon Hospital Bophut

MAIN ROAD www.9GEMSsamui.com 9GEMS Lounge Restaurant tel: 077 256 125 fax: 077 256 124 email: info@9Gemssamui.com

To Beach Road

Opening Hour: Tue-Thu open from 4pm-12am Fri-Sun open from 4pm-2am, closed on Monday Open every day in August and from mid-December to the end of April Close for holiday from the 1st to 27th of November

To Airport

Welcome to 9GEMS Lounge Restaurant, a totally luxurious venue that reaches new peaks when it comes to wining and dining. Experience the very best of fusion food and cocktails high up on a hillside overlooking Chaweng. We’re dedicated to providing our guests with brilliant times in a chic and relaxed setting.

Chaweng

TRULY NAPOLITANO PIZZA Great pizza comes with strict guidelines.

At Peppina we adhere to the rules of the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, an association created to promote and protect the rich heritage of pizza worldwide.

The secret to our dough is that we understand our ingredients; only water, sea salt, flour and yeast go into our dough. The dough should be pillowy and soft, and slightly elastic, with a crispness only at the edges of a blistered crust.

The Malibu Beach Resort Chaweng Beach Tel: +66 (077) 231 546-9 Web: peppina.asia