Buabok — Restaurant in Choeng Thale

From the moment you arrive at the majestic sala entrance to the Amanpuri, you know you are in for something special. Ed Tuttle's design has worn the years lightly since 1988.

The immense size of the open fronted structure, with its dark wooden Maka and Teak beams makes a bold statement of substance and style, complemented by palms, coconut trees, and large potted Bougainvillea

The staff are no less impressive and upon being greeted by the impeccably dressed hotel front office team you will be whisked across the traditionally styled lobby through to a large courtyard. This has at its centre a lap pool (of course perfectly lit for the night) and on the right is a raised platform, where you might be lucky enough to have a traditional musician entertaining guests. Beyond that further towards the sea is 'Nama', the Japanese restaurant known for Washouku and Omakase.

Tonight however was about Thai, so our guide steered us left, towards the large open pavilion that houses Buabok. In a handoff that was so seamless, that athletic teams would be envious, our hotel guide left us and the restaurant staff welcomed us to a table on the terrace overlooking the pool.

I've read that Amanpuri has a ratio of 7 staff to each guest and I would not be surprised. With a seemingly effortless (Thai) gracefulness the Buabok staff make sure you want for nothing.

The restaurant was busy-ish with about 30 covers at 8pm. The tables are spread out nicely, with only a couple of them eating inside whilst most enjoyed the terrace.

The menu is extensive (as you would expect), with the Aman's 'take' on traditional dishes and specialism in showcasing southern Thai, especially seafood. We tried the Kor Moo Yang (pork neck with Tamarind sauce), - rich in flavour, the texture of the pork giving body to the dish, Pod Pia Sod Nuea Pu (fresh spring crab roll with Tamarind and cashew), slightly thickened rice wrappers make this quite filling although the flavour was outstanding.

For mains, Khao Soi Gai, (Chiang Mai noodles with chicken thigh in a fragrant coconut broth, this one you can afford to dial up the spice a little to get fuller flavour) and Gaeng Pu Sen Mee, a signature dish, (Phuket crab with yellow curry, a clean bowl signalled a very satisfied diner),

The portions are quite large at Buabok so dessert didn't figure this time.

The food presentation was elegant, in keeping with the overall experience of the evening.

It is hard to find fault with Buabok. If you are looking for a special evening, a feeling of exclusivity (if only for a couple of hours) with amazing food, stylish setting and excellent service then you are hard pressed to find better on the island.

One...

Grilled snapper fillet with lemon, delicious. D stress cocktail, great. Profiteroles salted caramel, oh my…! So good. On the pricey side but the decor...

Such a special dining experience! Outstanding service, creative cocktails and food - beautiful setting with a lady playing the Thai...