Restaurant of the Month

Poppies has firmly established itself as the boutique hotel of choice here on Koh Samui. Attracting visitors from every corner of the globe, Poppies has been catering to their guests every need since they first opened their doors in 1994. The resort lies on a pristine white sand beach in the south of Chaweng, well away from the hustle and bustle of main resort area. The 24 Thai style cottages are set in lush exotic tropical gardens and each offer privacy from the others. If you follow the meandering paths past bubbling streams, fish ponds, teak bridges and waterfalls you will find yourself in the islands leading restaurant where you can dine under the stars overlooking the beach or in the magnificent Ayuthaya-style teak pavilion beside the pool.

'Pick Poppies for dinner tonight' is a well known catch phrase here on Koh Samui so I was a little surprised to be invited there for lunch but I was certainly not disappointed. The Magic created during the evening by this well established, experienced and extremely professional team of staff is equally delightful and enjoyable during the day time. With the beach on the doorstep and a well equipped and delightful Poppies Spa close by it's the perfect spot to really indulge, not just for lunch but for the entire day! A delicious light lunch over a bottle of wine surrounded by greenery and stunning views, a sensual massage with the sound of the waves in the background and then time to relax in the delightful teak guest lounge or perhaps on the beach; this truly is a taste of paradise and one not to be missed during your stay here in Koh Samui.

So on to the menu, which is bursting at the seams with stunningly presented, perfectly prepared fair that is just waiting to tantalise your taste buds. Whether you are after cuisine as exotic as the surroundings or something a little more familiar, this extensive menu has something for everybody and at a reasonable price. Take your time over a glass of wine and peruse dishes such as 'Grilled snow fish on tomato basil sauce and ruccola', 'Duck in a red curry wrap', 'Lobster and toasted garlic with brie cheese quesadilla', 'Speciality pannini with roast marinated peppers, eggplant, tomato, mozzarella sandwich', 'Linguine with lobster and tomato basil sauce' or any one of the delicious Thai dishes that are prepared to suit western taste buds unless you choose to take it as spicy as the locals. The Thai section of the menu includes 'Crispy prawn and pork pancakes with plum sauce', 'Spice glass noodle salad with prawns minced pork and squid'. 'Coconut soup seafood or chicken in a coconut shell' as well as noodle and rice dishes, stir fry and the famous Thai curries. For those of you are not quite as adventurous or those who have a more hearty lunch time appetite try the 'Beef, lamb or chicken burgers served with French fries', a 'Club sandwich', 'Adult size hot dog' or perhaps the traditional 'English style fish and chips with malt vinegar'. Crispy freshly baked grilled pizzas come with a variety of toppings such as shrimp, roast peppers, Cajun chicken, marinated artichokes, goat, mozzarella parmesan and cheddar cheeses, cilantro pesto and olives. It is worth mentioning that all of the breads are baked on site and the smells of baking bread mingled with the essential oils from the health spa and the aroma of the Thai cooking pervade the guest lounge and just add to this very special slice of heaven. The guest lounge is the perfect place to relax after lunch with a glass or wine, port, speciality coffee or a cigar, both during the day time and in the evening.

Poppies Bar is the perfect place to overlook the ocean and the palm trees swaying in the tropical breeze and enjoy a cocktail or a bottle of wine. The wine list that comprised almost entirely of New World wines is extensive as well as affordable. All of the wines have been carefully chosen for the bouquet, fruitiness and subtle complexities that make them fun and a pleasure to drink. Red wine selections include Grgich Hills Zinfandel, De Bartoli "Sero" Syrah/Tempranillo and White offers Alexander Valley Estate Chardonnay, Kendall Jackson Reserve Sauvignon Blanc. Executive chef and food and beverage manager Gregg Montanez is always on hand to assist you both in your selection of wine and items off his beautifully created and presented menu.

Poppies really is a corner of Samui that remains unspoilt, it's a true slice of paradise. From the marble reception area with its smiling friendly staff and boutique shop to the gardens where you will find the Thai style cottages and a pathway that leads down to the restaurant and the beach. Everything about this outstanding resort is beautifully thought out, lovingly cared for and proudly presented for your ultimate holiday and dining pleasures.

Bon appetite