Some resorts simply exude quality, drawing celebrities and royalty alike to visit. Such resorts feature the finest restaurants where excellence is ambient and everything culinary is impeccable. On Samui you can enjoy such prestige at The Beach House, Santiburi 's idyllic beachside restaurant and mecca for tropical dining.

Located on Maenam Beach, Santiburi is a name recognized throughout the island for having set a standard of excellence in luxury and service since it first opened on Samui 25 years ago. It's built on an expansive estate, resplendent with mature flora which presents a feeling of tropical seclusion. Drive from its entrance on the ring-road to the lobby and begin to feel everything ordinary fade away. Upon arrival, tell the friendly reception staff that you're dining at The Beach House; an electric buggy will appear and wind you through the bricked paths of this glorious tropical 'plantation' to your destination.

Arriving, you'll be greeted by a radiant tropical island vista of tall undulating coconut trees lining a pristine white sandy beach and enveloping the open-air restaurant in shade. Choose to sit inside the floorto- ceiling, chic windowed bar, on the adjacent wooden terrace or take off your shoes and eat with your feet in the sand. Wherever you choose, you'll enjoy casual elegance, see and hear the waves, and feel the sea breeze on your face.

Find a sofa or a cozy 'daybed' and stretch out with a drink before and/ or after your meal. Dining at The Beach House is an unhurried affair. Savour every minute as well as every culinary delight.

In the daytime, the turquoise sea glistens through the palms. The sun splashes the sand and the breeze wafts over the terrace. The panorama of the sea, sand and site of neighbouring islands is alluring. There is no more perfect location to sample a light lunch dish, such as a Buddha bowl, wrap, burger or fish and chips. The ambiance is infectious. Enjoying a lunch at The Beach House will most certainly beckon you to return for dinner. It's at night when candles and the soft hues of light transform The Beach House into an oasis of romantic ambiance the likes of which you may never experience again.

A wood-fired oven is used to create the 'surf', 'turf', and 'surf & turf' cuisine and to do so with culinary perfection. The Beach House prides itself on creating a distinct yet subtle hint of a 'smoky' taste to obtain the savouriness of authentic surf & turf.

"...and is renowned as THE place to go for excellent surf & turf on Samui."

There is at least one sumptuous buffet at The Beach House with accompanying entertainment every week. Enjoy an Asian Variety, Regional Thai, Surf & Turf, Burger Bar or a myriad of others. The Beach House also hosts various themed events throughout the year with special dishes, entertainment and other surprises. Just call and find out what's on the agenda.

Widely-travelled and highly experienced Swiss executive chef Adrian Hauenstein is the innovative master in the kitchen. All of his creations are highly recommended. The Tuna Tataki, comprised of seared yellow fin tuna with sesame crust, pineapple salsa and guacamole, is amazing and the perfect dish with which to begin the dining experience at The Beach House.

But the undisputed champion of recommendations is the restaurant's top signature dish, the Tournedos of Beef and Tiger Prawns which is charcoal-grilled and served with garlic-flavoured crushed potatoes and crispy brie. And these are but two of the reasons The Beach House is renowned to be THE place to go for exquisite surf & turf on Samui.

As difficult as it may be, save room for dessert. There's a great selection of homemade ice-creams, sorbets and other delectables to sate your sweet tooth. Throw caution to the wind and order the ridiculously delicious Santiburi Chocolate Brownie with vanilla ice-cream and salted caramel sauce. It is decadent, but isn't that what holidays are for?

Its fabulous location, superb service and delicious cuisine make The Beach House one of Samui's best and a highly recommended must-visit.

The restaurant is open for lunch from 12:00 noon and for dinner from 7:00 pm with the kitchen closing at 10:00 pm.

For reservations (recommended) and further information, telephone +66 (0) 7742 5031-8.