Sensational Food with a Sumptuous View
Tasted: The Cocoon Viewpoint Restaurant & Bar

Stunning views abound in Samui, but if you’re seeking sensational flavours to match, Cocoon Viewpoint Restaurant & Bar belongs on your list. Perched high on a lush hillside with sweeping vistas over the Gulf of Thailand, this breezy hideaway servse up local Thai favourites, fusion plates, international comfort food and cocktails – a true feast for both tastebuds and eyes.

Setting it apart from other hilltop dining venues is its front-row seat for the island’s runway, offering diners the added drama of watching flights – often Bangkok Airways – take off and land. A DJ-musician competes with the airshow, lifting the mood between courses with clever pop remixes layered with live violin.

On our visit, we were warmly welcomed with a choice of zingy watermelon, orange and lemon spritzers before Chef Roman Fiseiko emerged from his kitchen with a beaming smiel and a generous spread of his creations.

Russia-born Roman began his culinary career at the Michelin-starred Le Clair de la Plume in Provence, France, cuisine. He then embarked on a global journey, experimenting with molecular cuisine in Belarus, embracing vibrant Asian flavours in Vietnam and collaborating with renowned chefs in Israel, before returning to Russia to introduce bold, Asia-inspired dishes to local plates. Today, as head chef at Samui’s Cocoon Viewpoint, Chef Roman channels influences from this culinary odyssey into every plate, each dish telling a story of his travels.

Our own journey begins with the Barracuda Beurre Blanc: a perfectly grilled fillet nestled on creamy avocado, paired with a velvety cauliflower puree and finished with a buttery sauce studded with ikura (salmon roe). Equally enticing is the Chicken Puttanesca, a succelent thigh bathed in tangy tomato-caper sauce, served with potato gratin and crisp bok choy.

Chef Roman’s take on local favourites like Shrimp Phad Thai and Wagyu Basil Stir Fry are just as noteworthy, while desserts like the Honey Cake and Chocolate Brownie round off the experience with aromatic subtlety and a crowd-pleasing sweetness.

The Cocoon Viewpoint Restaurant & Bar

33/67 Village No. 4, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani
Tel: +66 (0) 93 586 1777 cocoon-samui.com

Words: Kankanit Wichiantanon
Photos: Anutra Ungsuprasert