Koh Samui, Thailand, December 4, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The gourmet restaurant Saffron overlooking the luxury resort Banyan Tree Samui has been recognized by the renowned Michelin Guide in its restaurant recommendations for 2025.

The France-based Michelin Guide, known for awarding stars to the world's most exquisite restaurants, last week published its Michelin Guide Thailand 2025, in which the Saffron restaurant is one of only a few restaurants on the tropical island to be included.

Opened in 2010, Saffron Restaurant offers sophisticated dinner menus in an elegant and tranquil setting, taking you on a culinary journey through Thailand's most innovative cuisine. The stylish restaurant is situated on a hillside, boasting spectacular views of the Gulf of Thailand. Its chefs are renowned for their refined flavor combinations, created through the delicate use of Thai herbs and spices.

This award-winning restaurant serves specialties such as: Khong Wang Ruam, an appetizer for two featuring freshly prepared crispy shrimp wrapped in rice noodles; grilled tender chicken breast satay; fried soft sea bass rice noodle rolls; and pomelo salad with tamarind sauce; as well as Pu Nim Thod Yum Lychee Nham Sawaros, a palate-tingling dish of crispy soft-shell crab, lychee salad, mint, lemongrass, and spicy passion fruit dressing.

One of Saffron's newest attractions is the Chef's Table evening, where guests are served gueridon-style by one of the chefs specializing in Thai and Southern Thai cuisine. In an educational and entertaining atmosphere, the chef guides guests through the preparation of Thai dishes, explaining local techniques and recipes, including the famous Tom Yum Kung, a traditional spicy shrimp soup with condensed milk, lemongrass, mushrooms, and coriander.

The Chef's Table dinners are complemented by Thai wines from the Monsoon Valley, which have surprised many connoisseurs with their full-bodied taste in recent years.

“The Michelin Guide award is a great recognition for our kitchen team at Saffron and their daily commitment and passion for preparing excellent food,” said Rainer Roersch, Director of Food and Beverages. “We are already seeing an increase in external guests who have become aware of Saffron through the Michelin Guide. Our goal is to delight every single guest with outstanding food and exemplary service.”

The 5-star Banyan Tree Samui, host of Saffron, was among the award winners when Michelin recently launched its new "key" rating system for the world's most outstanding hotels. The selection of Thai hotels in the 2024 Michelin Guide included eight hotels with three keys (the highest rating), 19 hotels with two keys, and 31 hotels with one key. Each hotel was visited and evaluated anonymously by Michelin inspectors. The Banyan Tree Samui was awarded two keys.

In addition to the award in the prestigious Michelin Guide, Saffron has also been named best restaurant four times by Tatler Magazine.

The Banyan Tree Samui is a luxurious villa resort with 88 rooms and a private pool, a pristine beach, exquisite spa facilities, fine dining, personalized concierge service, and unparalleled views of the Gulf of Thailand. The 15-hectare property is rich in flora and fauna, and its private beach is fringed by coral reefs.

The resort houses three restaurants, a spa with Banyan Tree's signature Rainforest hydrotherapy facility, a fitness center, a kids' club, a conference and event center, and a library.

ABOUT BANYAN TREE: Banyan Tree offers a retreat to rejuvenate body, mind, and soul in breathtaking locations around the globe. Rediscover the romance of travel and embark on journeys to legendary destinations where authentic and unforgettable experiences await. Banyan Tree offers exclusively villas, often with private pools, and guarantees warm and personalized service and a distinctive premium retreat experience.

ABOUT THE BANYAN GROUP The Banyan Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group” – SGX: B58) is an independent, global hospitality company with a clear purpose: innovation, design-led experiences, and responsible business practices. Its extensive portfolio includes over 70 hotels and resorts, over 60 spas and galleries, and 14 branded residences in more than 20 countries. The Group comprises 12 global brands, including its flagship brand, Banyan Tree. Each brand operates independently but is connected through Banyan’s Experience Membership program. The founding principle of “protecting the environment, empowering people” is embodied through the Banyan Global Foundation and the Banyan Management Academy. The Banyan Group remains committed to sustainable travel, focusing on regenerative tourism and innovative programs that enhance the guest experience.