Thai Classics, Reimagined
Tasted: Sa-Nga at Centara Reserve Samui

While Samui embodies Thailand’s reputation for fabulous food, only a handful of its eateries truly linger in the memory – and Sa-Nga is one of them.

Nestled within Centara Reserve Samui on Chaweng Beach, Sa-Nga is surrounded by everything a traveller dreams of: soft white sand, the gentle rhythm of a sapphire sea, tastefully designed rooms, and restaurants and bars that tempt at every turn.

After a lazy afternoon spent sea-gazing and mixing our own cocktails, we wandered over to Sa-Nga, where Thai classics are reinterpreted with creative flair. Dishes here are designed to be shared – crafted to surprise, spark conversation and invite you to savour every bite.

The first thing we noticed is the space: a soothing mix of cool white and warm brown, with marble luxury framing timeless wood furniture. The lighting dances from soft amber to crisp brightness, wrapping the room in a calm, understated elegance.

We chose the Art of Thai Elegance set for two – a curated culinary journey that began with a delicate plate of amuse-bouche followed by six standout creations. First came Yam Som O Ma Praw, a vibrant pomelo salad nestled in a coconut shell, topped with velvety coconut cream and finished with pomelo sorbet. The striking Tom Yum Cappuccino followed – a smoky, full-bodied soup with plump tiger prawns. The Wagyu Beef Salad arrived with a side of crisp cucumber and was followed by Taohu Song Khrueang Nuea Puu, and exquisitely delicate combination of tofu and sweet crab. Next came Khao Soi Lobster, a luxurious take on the Chiang Mai favourite reimagined with Samui flair. And to finish, the sweet showstopper: Kanvela Chocolate Coconut, a decadent coconut shell fashioned from rich 70% dark chocolate. Just when we thought the sweet chapter had closed, the Sa-Nga Chocolates Box arrived filled with decadent little jewels. Each piece was crafted with Thai craft chocolate from KanVela and came in Thai-inspired flavours like Nam Dok Mai Mango, Roasted Samui Coconut, and Phuket Pineapple & Red Chilli. It was a rich, velvety finale that brought the night to an indulgent close.

For those craving classic Thai cuisine reinvented for contemporary palates, Sa-Nga delivers more than just a meal – it serves up a refined culinary journey in harmony with the sea’s gentle rhythm.

Sa-Nga at Centara Reserve Samui

38/2 Moo 3, Borpud, Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
Tel: +66 (0) 77 230 500 www.centarahotelsresorts.com/centarareserve/crs

Words: Kankanit Wichiantanon
Photos: Anutra Ungsuprasert & Sa-Nga