Tuesday, January 30, 2024
As Thailand’s prominence in the luxury tourism and travel sector continues to grow, global media is increasingly taking notice and showering accolades on the “land of smiles.” Following the success of the inaugural Michelin Guide in Thailand in 2018, which marked Bangkok as the 7th Asian city with its dedicated Red Guide, Michelin has extended its reach to various regional tourist hubs, recently exploring the culinary scene on Koh Samui.
Deserving Recognition
Koh Samui, nestled in the picturesque Gulf of Thailand, stands out as a notable omission on the Michelin map, gaining recognition among food enthusiasts across the region. With a cadre of talented chefs calling the island home, it was only a matter of time before Koh Samui found its place in the Michelin landscape. “In the 2024 inaugural edition, Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui is thrilled to announce that its Thai specialty restaurant, Koh Thai Kitchen, has earned a spot among the 7 finalists,” declares an elated General Manager, Jasjit Assi. “Driven by our commitment to sustainability and our emphasis on local sourcing, the authenticity of our menus goes beyond mere taste.”
Passionate Leadership
At the forefront of this acknowledgment stands Chef Sumalee Khunpet, fondly known as “Jeab,” showcasing unwavering perseverance and dedication. With over a decade of skill refinement in crafting authentic Southern Thai cuisine at Four Seasons, Chef Jeab’s cooking philosophy is both straightforward and sincere. Sporting a smile, she expresses, “I aim for the ingredients to tell a compelling story.” Deriving inspiration from local produce that encapsulates the essence of Thai cuisine as a celebration of all seasons, Chef Jeab consistently evolves her menu, ensuring that guests experience something uniquely special with each meal. Making it a ritual, she never misses her morning visit to the local market, being the first to lay hands on the freshest produce as it arrives.
Dining with a View
Perched atop a palm-fringed hillside, where each table offers breathtaking coastal vistas stretching to the horizon, Koh Thai Kitchen’s location is a winner in itself. “We must ensure our food receives as much camera credit as the location,” jokes Branka Novakovic, Director of Restaurants and Bar. The panoramic ocean views complement the menu, which typically features seafood and spicy southern flavors. The restaurant also serves as the venue for spectacular culinary experiences, such as Tam Rab Thai – an extensive buffet offering pan-Thai foods from across the country. Live wok counters and salad stations churn out inspired dishes, while live folk music and crafts set the tone for an enchanting evening.
Recently, Chef Jeab unveiled a Thai-inspired tapas and cocktail experience, drawing inspiration from Samui’s enchanting seascape and offering delightful treats. Reflecting on her creation, she notes, “While finger foods are a staple on Thailand’s streets, they may be perceived differently in more refined environments. My aim was to infuse the joy and playfulness of street food into our guests’ experience, all within the luxurious ambiance of a Four Seasons dining setting.”
A Dash of Happiness
In the diverse techniques of a Thai kitchen, one common thread binds them all – happiness. “Every Thai recipe requires a dose of joy for it to land on your plate with that extra sizzle!” shares Jeab. Unreserved in sharing her culinary secrets, Chef Jeab’s specials, such as Pad Kapi Goong Moo Sub (stir-fried prawns with minced pork, fresh chili, tossed in prawn paste), reveal a considerable amount of love and authenticity in her style. The main dishes are equally impressive, with offerings like Plakapong Neung Manao (steamed, boneless whole seabass with a spicy lime dressing) and Massaman Nua (cardamom-scented, slow-cooked Australian wagyu beef in Massaman curry) bringing robust local flavors to the table. “This recognition undoubtedly provides us with an additional opportunity to establish a niche for sustainable Southern Thai cuisine here on the island,” notes Assi. “Not just for food enthusiasts in Thailand but globally.”
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
