Eight years is a long time on Samui – especially when it comes to the restaurant business. A lot happens. A lot changes. But one thing that many island residents and return vacationers rely on is one of the island's best-known and liveliest institutions. We're talking about Sunday Sessions featuring The Ultimate Sunday Brunch Club at Beach Republic. In the eight years since it debuted, it's gone through various changes and has become one of the most popular ways to spend Sundays.

Beach Republic is located on the quiet edge of Lamai, and is the ideal place to come and spend some time. It's set on an extraordinary stretch of sand, with rocky headlands and a backdrop of greenery and distant hills. Signposted just off the ring-road as you head into Lamai from Chaweng, it's down a short lane.

The Sunday brunch is set in the main restaurant, or rather it starts off there and has various other stations elsewhere. When you arrive, check out the entire ensemble, as there's so much on offer.

A variety of seating awaits, depending on your mood. There are booths with cushioned backs, traditional tables either inside or outside and you can also sit around the two swimming pools, which you're welcome to use.

Everything's been set up for hedonistic enjoyment, and being right by the sea only adds to the sense of delight. The beach here is more or less deserted, and there are plenty of small coves to explore. The water is shallow, making it one giant paddling pool, ideal for children.

But first you'll want to experience one of the top brunches to be had on Samui. It's a luxurious affair, and there's a huge variety with an accent on quality.

Rows of sushi await, along with tender Smoked Scottish Salmon and Gravlax Tasmanian Salmon. The bed of Fine-de-Claire Oysters and New Zealand Mussels will also be too tempting for many to resist. You will also find a range of cold cuts including the delectable Iberico ham.

Plenty of Thai finger food and small dishes are on display, and you'll also find Thai mains – try the excellent pad Thai, for example or various stir-fry dishes.

A lot of the brunch revolves around cooking stations of one kind or another. Try the roast section, serving lamb, chicken and beef exactly to your specifications. You can naturally indulge in a British-style Sunday lunch with roast beef, gravy and the inimitable Yorkshire puddings.

"...the brunch is an immense feast, filled with top quality foods of all the best kinds."

There's a whole selection of drinks to accompany the food, with beer, cocktails and wine, plus soft drinks of course. Various drink options are available – just choose which one is most suitable for you. Sip drinks poolside or tableside, the mood here is easy-going and always fun.

Music comes in the shape of a talented guitarist and singer as well as a DJ later on, so there's definitely a party spirit to the day. And you might find a few surprises too, such as a magician performing tricks right at your table. Individual performers may vary, but they're always professionals. The food may vary slightly, too; it's adjusted to the seasons and what's currently not just good, but very good.

Desserts are as decadent as you wish them to be. There are plenty of cut tropical fruits to end your brunch with, but you're bound to be tempted by the other treats on offer. How about tiramisu, chocolate mousse or a chocolate eclair? They're hard to resist and, this being brunch, you're always welcome to come back for more. There are also a range of highly tasty cheeses to round things off.

Even if you can't make it for Sunday brunch, come for lunch or dinner and enjoy the wide-ranging and highly tasty à la carte menu. Eating at Beach Republic is always a great experience and is highly recommended.

Brunch is held every Sunday from 11.30 am until 3:30 pm.
For reservations and further information, telephone 0 7745 8100.