Think fresh and exciting. Imagine happy and fun. And then conjure up splashes of vivid colours. Now mix them all together, and what have you got? The answer is New Star Beach Resort, Samui’s chic new hotel in Chaweng Noi.

And the resort’s signature restaurant, Chill – By The Pool, totally epitomizes the place as a whole. So let me take you there and explain in a bit more detail as we go.

The journey there itself is when the fun starts – for you have a choice. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the beach (it’s just 20 minutes from the centre of Chaweng Beach, heading south) and you’ll arrive directly in front of the restaurant, or take a 5-minute drive on the ring-road, park up (or get dropped off) at the reception and wander down through the stunningly designed resort, with its contemporary water features and beautiful gardens, until you reach the beach. Either route is enjoyable in its own way, and will prepare you perfectly for what’s to come.

Chill – By The Pool is set on an expansive raised terrace just one metre up from the beach itself. With a huge infinity-pool one side (thus the name) and a 200-metre ocean frontage, it has an absolutely perfect location. Especially when you factor in other elements, such as the 60-foot high coconut trees swaying in the breeze and lots and lots of wide open space.

The restaurant seats just 40 diners, and is split into 3 main areas. Firstly, there’s a roofed section which incorporates the bar area. Next, there’s a completely open-to-the-stars flagstone-paved patio garden section. And, finally, there’s a special single-table roofed ‘sala’ which is ideal for couples wanting to spend every single minute alone, or small groups preferring a bit more privacy. Actually, I lied. There is another place you can dine at Chill – By The Pool, and that’s on the beach itself. Just give the staff a bit of notice and they’ll arrange a special set-up for as many people as required.

So, the stage is set and now it’s time for the food. There’s a comprehensive Thai menu available (from Lime, New Star’s second restaurant) but here, at Chill – By The Pool, the cuisine is 100 % Mediterranean, with an emphasis on seafood. And here are some recommendations starting, appropriately, with starters.

Both the Mussels Steamed in Wine with garlic, spinach, fresh herbs and cream, and the Calamari Fritti with tzatziki and lemon are ideal dishes to begin the culinary adventure. Having tasted them you’ll know that you’re in very safe hands (those of Executive Chef – Khun Pornsak) and you’ll be able to look forward to your main course with confidence.

“… and here the cuisine is 100 % Mediterranean, with an emphasis on seafood.”

And, for them, I can personally recommend two dishes. Firstly, the Santorini Chicken stuffed with spinach, feta cheese, roast potatoes and seared vegetables served with a white wine and rosemary cream sauce. And, secondly, for seafood lovers, the Grilled Seabass Fillet with a salsa of tomato, onions, capers, roasted garlic and lemon cracked mini-potatoes and baby spinach. Mmm, most definitely recommended!

Mediterranean desserts are also on the menu, which includes a delicious variation of everybody’s favourite Italian dessert – Tiramisu – and a tasty Panna Cotta.

But it’s not just à la carte at Chill – By The Pool. There are three theme nights, too. On Mondays, it’s Italian Buffet trattoria-style, complete with a pasta station. Wednesday is Lobster Night, as there are four different lobster dishes especially prepared for the occasion. Then on Fridays it’s the Seafood Barbecue Buffet around the pool. And, in addition to this, there’s entertainment on Mondays and Fridays, from 7-10 pm, in the form of a talented musical duo.

Not only is Chill – By The Pool somewhere special to go for dinner, but it’s also a great place to enjoy lunch. And its spa/dining packages are an attractive option, too, when you can come here and make a whole day of it.

Yes, this restaurant offers great food in a fabulous beachside environment away from the hustle-bustle of Chaweng whilst being just minutes away, and comes highly recommended.