Thailand

Sa-Nga Samui restaurant: Following its participation in the highly anticipated Taste of Samui 2026, Centara Reserve Samui now brings elements of the showcase into the guest dining experience, allowing diners to enjoy the same culinary expressions for themselves.

Held at Central Festival Samui, Chaweng Beach, from 7th – 8th March 2026, the event brought together leading culinary personalities from across the island. At the centre of Centara Reserve Samui’s presentation was Sa-Nga; a contemporary interpretation of Thai cuisine, where each dish begins with rice as its foundation, respected as the cornerstone of Thai culinary tradition.

At the event, Sa-Nga showcased Kao Yum Sa-Nga as a particular highlight. This concept continues at the restaurant itself, where Khao Yum Sa-Nga is introduced as part of the dining sequence, served as an amuse bouche within the sharing menu. The dish features organic green jasmine rice sourced from Sisaket province, harvested slightly early to preserve its delicate vegetal aroma. It is combined with fresh herbs, roots, and aromatic spices, then balanced with palm sugar and fish sauce to create a layered and precise flavour profile.

Alongside the food, the island-inspired cocktails first presented during the event remain available for guests to enjoy, continuing the collaboration with Gin Run. These cocktails are developed with tropical elements and subtle botanicals, designed not to dominate but to sit in balance with Thai flavours, offering a considered pairing that complements the flow of the meal.

Together, these elements reflect Sa-Nga’s broader approach: a measured interpretation of Thai culinary heritage, expressed through ingredient-led cooking and modern technique, within a setting that allows the experience to unfold at its own pace.

The Taste of Samui platform brought together local chefs, international perspectives, and premium resorts, offering a wide-ranging exploration of the island’s culinary identity. It provided a context for exchange and collaboration, one that continues beyond the event itself through dishes and pairings now integrated into Sa-Nga’s menu.

At the reserve, this continuity reflects a broader commitment to participate in and host defining moments within the island’s dining scene, and then infuse them into ongoing guest experiences; where the same level of detail, sourcing, and intent remains present throughout.