What’s in a name? Well, when a resort is called something with the word ‘peace’ in it, you’ve got every right to expect somewhere tranquil and laid back. And at the fabulous Peace Resort Samui, in Bo Phut, it’s just that.

So, it naturally follows that the resort’s signature restaurant, Sea Wrap, also exudes an unhurried, calm atmosphere. Which it certainly does. When it comes to having a totally chilled out dining experience, Sea Wrap really is hard to beat.

 And it all starts as you come off the busy ring-road in Bo Phut (it’s opposite Peace Tropical Spa – owned by the same family), and enter the driveway leading to the car-park. Everything slows down and becomes, well, peaceful. Pass the reception on your right and take a short walk along an enclosed wooden decking pathway before emerging the other side with the restaurant in front of you. And you’ll immediately be drawn in by the cosy golden glow emanating from the many yellow fluted hanging lanterns.

Now the traditionalists (read – less supple) amongst you (and that includes me!) may choose to sit upright at one of the 36 tables within the smart and spacious restaurant building itself. It’s great here and looks down upon the beach and across to the neighbouring island – Koh Pha-Ngan. But the more adventurous will, no doubt, choose to dine at one of the twelve low tables on the beach itself, and sit on one of the huge brown leather bean-bags. There can’t be a better place to experience a Samui night under the stars lounging in comfort on the beach whilst being served some amazing homemade food.

And there’s both International and Central Region Thai cuisine served at Sea Wrap, including sections in the menu for pasta, salads, soups, seafood and, not forgetting, vegetarian food, too. Right, here are my recommendations. Firstly, from the International starters selection, it’s just got to be the tasty Mushroom Pouches: filo-pastry pouches filled with mushroom and boiled eggs in a white sauce. And, secondly, this time from the Thai section, the delicious Tod Mun Pla: deep-fried fish cakes served with a sweet and sour cucumber sauce.

Moving on to mains, I recommend the extra-special Thai dish – Hor Mok Pla Hi Ma: steamed snowfish soufflé in a young coconut-shell with coconut cream. It’s excellent! But, if you’re a fan of crustaceans, do try Sea Wrap’s excellent interpretation of the world-famous dish, Lobster Thermidor, comprising a whole Canadian lobster (kept live prior to ordering) with cheese, mushrooms in a Béchamel sauce, served in the lobster shell. You won’t regret it.

“… and when it comes to having a totally chilled out dining experience, Sea Wrap really is hard to beat.”

Desserts here are equally appetising, and although I usually just recommend two, in this case I have to recommend three, so make sure you’re hungry! And these dishes are: Orange Crème Brulee; Chocolate Mousse with cream Anglaise; and, finally, my particular favourite, Tart Tatin with vanilla ice-cream.

Everything at Sea Wrap is homemade, and that includes the superb bread which is freshly prepared in the restaurant’s very own bakery (no wonder the desserts here are so delicious!). In fact, there’s a definite homeliness that’s in the air at Peace Resort Samui. It might have something to do with the fact that this is a family-run resort. Or it may be that the staff are so friendly, yet totally professional (many of them have been working at the resort for a very long time). But it could also be the fact that when you totally relax in such a peaceful and tranquil environment you tend to feel ‘at home’ yourself.

If you want to come along when there’s some entertainment, on Thursdays there’s Thai dancing on the beach from 7:30 pm, and on Mondays and Saturdays there’s a Filipino duo that serenades diners; also from 7:30 pm.

So, what is in a name? Well, Sea Wrap is certainly making a name for itself amongst diners on Samui looking for excellent food, just as its parent hotel Peace Resort Samui has already done for those seeking some tropical tranquility.