DAO by Chef Nir Mesika — Restaurant in Surat Thani Province

I truly didn’t see it coming. On Koh Phangan, an island of sandy toes, smoothies, stir-fried noodles and parties, I never imagined myself choosing an evening of fine dining: refined, quiet, and meticulously curated. But I’ve loved Nir Mesika’s food ever since the days of Timna in New York and Timna Tel Aviv, so it was hard to resist the temptation to try it here as well. I managed to grab a last-minute cancellation, one single seat, and by the end of the meal, I realized just how lucky I was.

This isn’t a restaurant in the traditional sense. It’s an intimate experience: just 16 guests seated around one long communal table. Nir and his wonderful wife Liat personally greet each guest and seat them themselves. At each place setting waits a postcard with a handpicked saying, something chosen just for you.

And somehow, within less than five minutes, I felt like I was sitting in the dining room of old friends. The kind who truly know you, and had planned, just for you, the most indulgent evening possible.

It’s a tasting menu that unfolds like a journey. Nir leads it with confidence, through precise compositions, unexpected flavors, and emotional seasoning. Each course is paired with a thoughtfully selected wine, one that elevates and deepens the experience without stealing the spotlight. Every plate is a work of art, a meeting point between sophistication and elegance, yet warm, personal, beautifully designed and jaw-dropping in its presentation, while somehow maintaining a graceful, effortless calm.

And of course, a perfectly curated playlist fills the space with sounds that echo the mood and rhythm of the dishes.

Of all the places in the world, it was here, on a small island in Thailand, that I found one of the most memorable meals I’ve...

An Unforgettable Culinary Experience with Chef Nir Masika

I recently had the chance to attend a private dinner by Chef Nir Masika, and honestly, the food stole the show. Known for his restaurant in Tel Aviv, Nir brings the same creativity and flair to this intimate setting, and it’s nothing short of spectacular.

What really stood out to me wasn’t just how incredible everything tasted, but how each dish was presented and how we were meant to eat it. From unique serving plates to interactive elements like taking a shot before a bite, the experience felt immersive and exciting. The flavors? Absolutely mind-blowing. Every dish brought something new, with textures and combinations that were surprising but always on point.

And then there’s the value for money. At this level of fine dining, you usually expect a hefty price tag, but what you get here is top-notch food at a price that feels more than fair. It’s rare to find this kind of quality and creativity without paying way more.

In short, if you’re into great food and love trying new, unique dining experiences, I can’t recommend this enough. Chef Nir Masika knows how to take you on a culinary adventure that’s worth every penny.

ולישראלים שבנינו, האוכל של ניר באמת מדהים, הטכניקה הצרפתית, הטעמים מהבית וזה שהכל קורה ב(דאון טאון) קופנגן עם אסתטיקה מדויקת יוצרים באמת חוויה שאי אפשר...

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I recently had the pleasure of dining at DAO, a culinary gem helmed by the talented Chef Nir Mesika. From the moment I stepped into the restaurant, I was greeted by a warm and inviting ambiance that set the tone for an unforgettable dining experience.

DAO's commitment to using the freshest produce was evident in every dish that graced my table. Each bite burst with vibrant flavors and showcased the natural sweetness and complexity of the ingredients. The attention to detail in sourcing top-quality produce truly elevated the dining experience to a whole new level.

The tasting menu at DAO was a journey of culinary delight. Chef Nir Mesika's artistry and creativity shone through each course, taking my taste buds on a remarkable adventure. From the delicate presentation to the harmonious blend of flavors and textures, every dish was a work of art that left me utterly satisfied and craving for more.

Overall, my dining experience at DAO was nothing short of exceptional. The combination of fresh produce, innovative dishes, and impeccable service truly made this restaurant stand out as a dining destination not to be missed. I wholeheartedly recommend DAO for anyone looking to indulge in a culinary experience that is both exquisite and...