An extensive spa menu and stunning beachfront pool villas aren’t the only shining stars at the new Centara Reserve Samui. While seafood at the beach is a no-brainer, you can kind of get tired of grilled prawns after you’ve had it for the fifth meal in a row. Centara, however, has made sure that guests practically never have to repeat a dish by building not one, not two, not three, not — okay, you get the idea so we’ll cut to the chase. Six. There are six dining experiences available at Centara Reserve Samui.

In keeping with the Centara standard of quality, the menus feature freshly-caught, sustainably-sourced seafood, and local produce and imported ingredients of the highest quality. Additionally, Centara is constantly updating the menu at each of the restaurants to ensure that no two visits are ever the same. With upscale, experimental dishes that’ll look great on the ‘gram as well as meticulously handcrafted cocktails at your disposal, your biggest “problem” will be coming up with a game plan to properly tackle all six restaurants before the end of your stay.

Act 5

This is the centerpiece of Centara Reserve Samui’s dining experience. Diners who enjoy dining experiences that are a feast for the eyes and ears as much as the nose and tongue will love it here Act 5. The buzzing sounds of the open kitchen fill the air and allow diners to see the chefs at work as they put together mouthwatering dishes such as beef short ribs that have been slow-cooked for twelve hours, duck paired with almond purée and and olive oil powder, and — because we are still at the beach, after all — plenty of seafood.

Don’t leave without checking out the dessert menu’s pièce de résistance: ‘Crunch’, a colorful concoction that’s meant to serve as the “finale” to your Act 5 experience.

Opening hours: 6pm-10:30pm

Salt Society

From the “salt” in its name and the aquatic animal-inspired glassware to the Sunday brunch aptly named “Vitamin Sea,” every detail of Salt Society embodies (what else?) the beach. The open-plan beachfront layout allows diners to enjoy all the sights and sounds the ocean has to offer while consuming dishes like a tuna quesadilla with chili jam, or the carbonara-filled tortellini with a side of smoked parmesan gelato.

And because no trip to the beach is complete without a refreshing cold drink to knock back, the drink menu here features more than 50 alcohol and non-alcoholic choices. Try the “mall sake” (which combines sake, gin, midori, jasmine, sweet basil, and jasmine oil), or if you’re in the mood for something more tropical, the mango shake (which has coconut, galliano vanilla, and mango rum).

Opening hours: Noon-10:30pm

Sa-Nga

Sa-Nga means “elegant” in Thai, which is exactly what Centara has successfully executed at this tapas-style restaurant that honors Thai cuisine with small but mighty dishes that are meant to be shared. The 18-guest limit means that diners will enjoy an intimate experience as they explore the Thai-with-a-twist menu.

A classic duck red curry comes with lychee caviar, while lamb loin in yellow curry surprisingly works alongside its burrata cheese accompaniment. Curious, more adventurous diners will have fun with the tom yum cappuccino or the chicken betel leaf. And, of course, the fun continues all the way through dessert, where you can end your night with creations such as sweet potato soup, mango sticky rice with a custard mousse, and banana poached in coconut milk with white chocolate.

Opening hours: 6pm-10:30pm

The Terrace

Channeling the laid-back vibes that you come to Koh Samui for in the first place, The Terrace’s relaxed piazza-style setup invites diners to lounge and take their time enjoying the various comfort foods on the all-day dining menu. While there are both interior and exterior seating options available, grab one of the plush outdoor sections and soak in the breeze and ocean waves. Need to recharge after several consecutive days of beach excursions? Pick from hearty, classic favorites like a juicy beef cheeseburger or truffle mac and cheese, or if your recovering stomach isn’t quite ready for a large meal just yet thanks to yesterday’s late night, get something lighter like the truffle french onion soup.

Opening hours: 6:30am-6pm

The Gin Run

With a name like “The Gin Run,” it will surprise no one to find out that alcohol (and, yes, specifically gin) is the star of the show at this lobby-level bar. Small light bites including fresh oysters and tempura soft shell crab pair brilliantly with the 35-plus gin-based concoctions. Gin enthusiasts can ask the staff about their magic reserve gin, a clear spirit that was created by the in-house mixology team. We’re particularly intrigued by the carrotini (a combination of triple sec, gin, orange, and carrot), and the chamomile lavender, which blends gin, lavender, and chamomile tea.

Opening hours: Noon-11pm

Pool Bar

Conveniently located (where else?) right by the hotel’s main pool, diners can help themselves to a light nibble and signature cocktail between naps on the sun loungers. Menu highlights include crock pot pork verde tacos, fresh summer rolls, snapper ceviche with cashew nuts, avocado, cherry tomato, and papaya, and a crêpe croque monsieur with gruyère and smoked ham. Had too much sun? Cool yourself down with a refreshing fruit shake or juice, or the ice-cream-based coconut bowl.

Guests taking advantage of the “swim up” dine-and-drink can even ask for a floating ring for your cocktail so you can enjoy the rest of your swim in peace.

Opening hours: 10am-7pm

Personalized Dining Experiences

If you’re looking to splurge on a one-of-a-kind dining experience, Centara will work with you to tailor their “dine anywhere, anytime” philosophy to your unique wants.

A private barbeque option is ideal for large families whose little ones can run about without the adults having to worry about disturbing other guests. And while the beach is in itself already a romantic getaway, couples can also have a gourmet picnic directly on the sand, or a glamping-style candlelit dinner in the lush and expansive gardens.

An interactive meal can also be booked at their Kitchen Table, where the resort’s expert chefs will talk you through culinary skills and secrets as they whip up a personalized multi-course meal right in front of you.

For more information and restaurant reservations, contact Centara Koh Samui at +66 (0) 77230500, email [email protected], or check out https://www.centarahotelsresorts.com/reserve/crs.