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Padma restaurant at Karma Samui has long been one of the most highly regarded eateries on the island. The focal point of a resort that spills down a shoulder of land giving onto the brilliant waters of the Gulf of Thailand, the restaurant is accessed via pathways that wind through tropical gardens and appears as something of a revelation – a veranda complete with whimsical pavilion, framing a dreamy vista of ocean, sky and craggy coastline. Then last year came RockPool, which added a whole new dimension to this heavenly venue
If Padma is a beachfront restaurant, then you’d have to describe RockPool as a beach top bistro and lounge. Step down from the polished hardwood floors of Padma and you arrive at an expansive split-level deck that is literally suspended above the beach, like the prow of a ship. A series of giant daybeds shaded by gossamer canopies form an ocean-facing backdrop (yes, honeymooners love to curl up here) and whitewashed wicker lounges with thick upholstery are set around designer picnic tables. A broad balustrade at the edge of the deck offers the perfect spot to contemplate sunsets, perched on a tall stool with one of Karma Samui’s signature cocktails on the counter before you.
In keeping with its communal, laid back atmosphere, RockPool offers a medley of tapas style dishes from around the globe, which are ideal for sharing though of course guests can choose from any of Karma Samui’s extensive menu selections. Under the able direction of chefs Yehudi Van Meckeren and Azizkandar Awang, the kitchen serves up a genre-defying menu that include such temptations as Thai style crispy salmon with green mango, dried shrimps, cashew nuts and chilli-lime dressing or Blue eye bass, leek puree, citrus reduction and fresh herbs salad. And yes, as you’ve probably gathered from the name, menus definitely lean towards seafood, though not exclusively.
It would be a shame to maintain such a nice venue without really using it, so every month Karma Samui brings in an accomplished jazz outfit towards the end of each month, DJs are enlisted to spin full moon parties (though definitely not of the Koh Phangan variety) and there are regular fashion shows and other cultural performances. The whole area can also be given over to private functions from weddings to birthdays. All of which leads us to the conclusion that RockPool kind of rocks really. We’re sure you’ll agree.
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