OK. They’ve got a point. Pessimists always say it’s best to expect the worst, so you won’t be disappointed. But at Dahla restaurant, go ahead; you can safely be an optimist and expect the best. Because that’s exactly what you’ll get in this stunning beachside restaurant.

It’s part of the lovely Ban Laem Sai Beach Resort & Spa in Maenam, and although it’s not on the ring-road itself, it is easy to get to. As you’re coming from Chaweng towards Maenam, just take the second concrete road on the right after the sharp bend with Zazen Boutique Beach Resort on the corner. Follow this road to the very end and you’ll soon reach the resort’s impressive entrance.

The staff here couldn’t be more charming, and someone will immediately arrange for you to be silently whisked beachside to Dahla in an electric buggy, where the adventure continues.

It’s spacious here, and everything’s spread out along the expansive beachfront. Choose to sit under cover of the massive teak-pillared Thai roof, on the open terrace under the stars, or on the sandy lower level; the choice is yours. But wherever you are, you’ll be next to the coconut palm trees swaying across the gently lapping ocean. And being at the very top of Maenam Bay means that as you look out to sea, you’ll see the many coloured twinkling lights of various other resorts reflecting on the water.

Terra-cotta flooring, subtle lighting, widely-spaced seating, comfortable chairs, total tranquility, and highly-professional friendly staff all contribute in giving Dahla that elusive ‘atmosphere’ which many places strive desperately to create, and fail miserably in the process.

Just glancing at the menu gives you that warm feeling of expectation when you see that there are so many choices here, and that choosing is going to be a difficult task. There’s an excellent selection of seafood, International, and Thai cuisine, so whatever your preferences are, there’s sure to be something that’ll take your eye.

If you want to experience the local cuisine, cooked exquisitely, then here are some worthy recommendations. For an appetizer, do try the Ban Laem Sai Thard Thong, which is a collection of assorted snacks comprising a prawn spring roll, sautéed minced shrimps in a golden cup, stuffed minced pork in a Chinese pancake and marinated chicken wrapped in pandanus leaves. And follow that with the classic main course dish – Kaow Soy Kai. It’s from the north of Thailand and is a marvellous yellow curry with chicken, crispy noodle and traditional condiments. Staying with Thai for dessert, the Boloy Sam See – a warm homemade taro, pandanus and pumpkin dumplings, is an excellent example of this cuisine.

“… and there’s an excellent selection of seafood,
International, and Thai cuisine.”

Decide to choose from the International menu and there are some absolute winners; too many to list all the recommendable ones, but here are a few. The appetizer, Thyme and Pepper Seared Tuna over potato salad and balsamic glaze, just shouldn’t be missed. And if you’re a seafood lover, then the main course Grilled Diver Scallops, sautéed tiger prawn and homemade pasta stuffed with sautéed mushrooms and a fennel and saffron veloute sauce will more than keep you happy. Finish off with the Chocolate Volcano Cake with a homemade doughnut and crème Anglaise for dessert, and you’ll find a new favourite.

And all this is organised by Dahla’s highly-prized Executive Chef, who’s also the Food & Beverage Director. Although Mustafa Almasri is only 30, he’s already had more cooking experience during his travels around the world than most chefs have in a lifetime. And what he’s done at Dahla is an incredible achievement: the food here is outstanding and the whole operation runs like clockwork. But, not only is Mustafa one of Samui’s finest chefs, he’s also a very nice guy, too.

Should you enjoy live music, then visit on a Wednesday, Thursday, Friday or Sunday. These are the nights that the resident 3-piece Filipino band – Les Acousticas – performs between 7 and 10 pm. And they are as polished as entertainment comes, adding yet another special ingredient to Dahla’s unique atmosphere.

For a special night of fine dining, away from the crowds and in such a lovely location, finding a better restaurant than Dahla isn’t easy – and I’m an optimist!