Step into the world of Kiree, the culinary jewel of Vana Belle Luxury Collection Resort in Koh Samui, recently honored as one of the TOP 100 Restaurants of the World for 2023 by Luxury Lifestyle Awards. With a seamless blend of European-inspired dishes infused with Asian allure, Kiree offers a dining experience that transcends traditional expectations. In this interview, we uncover the essence of Kiree’s success – from its commitment to locality to the meticulous craftsmanship behind its dishes, creating the perfect fusion of flavors and luxury.

We spent some time with Francois Poletti, General Manager, to find out about the world of Kiree.

Luxury Lifestyle Awards (LLA): Congratulations on Kiree’s well-deserved achievement in being chosen as one of the TOP 100 Restaurants of the World in 2023! Can you share with us how this remarkable accomplishment has impacted the team and the restaurant’s vision for the future?

Francois Poletti (FP): Thank you for your kind words and congratulations on recognizing Kiree’s inclusion among the TOP 100 Restaurants of the World in 2023. This accolade is truly an honor and a testament to the dedication and passion of our exceptional team at Kiree.

The impact of this remarkable accomplishment on our team has been incredibly positive and motivating. It has served as a validation of our commitment to culinary excellence, innovation, and delivering an exceptional dining experience. The recognition has boosted the team’s morale, fostering a sense of pride and enthusiasm in our collective efforts.

As for the restaurant’s vision for the future, this achievement has reinforced our commitment to continuous improvement and raising the bar even higher. We aspire to build on this success by exploring new culinary frontiers, pushing boundaries, and consistently exceeding the expectations of our valued customers. The acknowledgment has also inspired us to focus on sustainability, authenticity, and creating memorable moments for our guests.

LLA: Kiree is known for its opulent ambiance, both indoors and on the breezy terrace. How do you believe the restaurant’s setting contributes to the overall dining experience, and what elements of the atmosphere do you find most captivating for your guests?

FP: Well, The luxurious ambiance at Kiree is carefully curated to immerse our guests in a memorable and enchanting atmosphere.

The opulence of the indoor and terrace spaces adds a touch of sophistication, setting the stage for an extraordinary dining journey.

The elegant decor, complemented by carefully chosen lighting and design elements, creates an inviting and refined atmosphere that contributes to the overall enjoyment of our culinary offerings.

The breezy terrace, in particular, provides in my view a unique and refreshing setting.

The interplay of natural elements, combined with the scenic views, adds an extra layer of delight to the dining experience.

Guests often express appreciation for the seamless integration of the indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing them to savor their meals in an environment that feels both exclusive and harmoniously connected to nature. The sea view there is definitely unique.

LLA: Kiree prides itself on blending European-inspired dishes with an Asian twist. Can you share some specific examples of how this fusion is reflected in your menu, and how you believe it sets Kiree apart from other fine dining establishments?

FP: At Kiree restaurant, we take pride in our European culinary roots, but we believe in infusing our dishes with a creative twist of Asian flavors. A prime illustration of this fusion is evident in our approach to the classic Crustacean Bisque. In the Kiree rendition, this traditional dish transforms into a Spiced Prawn Bisque.

Our commitment to using locally sourced prawns adds a fresh and sustainable touch to the dish. What truly sets it apart is the infusion of the rich and aromatic spices from the Thai terroir. This careful blend of local ingredients and traditional Asian spices elevates the bisque, giving it a distinctly Asian character while retaining the essence of European culinary heritage.

LLA: The commitment to creating a personalized experience is evident at Kiree. Can you share a specific example of how your team engages emotionally with guests, providing a level of personalization that goes beyond their expectations?

FP: At Kiree, we consider each guest to be truly special, embracing their unique personalities, tastes, and life aspirations. Our commitment goes beyond the dining table; we aim to tailor-make a unique experience for every individual, one that extends well beyond their time with us.

The essence of this extraordinary experience is not confined to the immediate dining experience but often continues long after. A recent incident perfectly encapsulates this philosophy. When a guest expressed curiosity about whether we cook Durian Fruit, renowned for its distinctive and strong aroma and custard-like flesh, our chef sensed the interest and took a remarkable step.

Apologizing for not being able to include Durian on the menu that night, our chef approached the table later in the evening. He inquired if the guests were available the next morning for an unexpected adventure. Intrigued, they agreed. The chef kept the details under wraps until the following morning when he welcomed the guests at the reception and led them to a Durian Farm.

The surprise continued as the guests not only witnessed the harvesting of this tropical fruit but also participated in a special degustation on-site.

This epitomizes the heart of Kiree – Going beyond the ordinary, our commitment extends beyond the culinary creations to create a holistic and unforgettable experience for our guests. At Kiree, we are driven by a genuine passion to welcome, please, and surprise our valued guests, providing them with a unique immersion in Thai culture. This dedication forms the core of our hospitality, ensuring that every moment at Kiree is not just a meal but a journey into the heart of Thai culinary and cultural excellence.

LLA: Luxury at Kiree is defined as an experience that profoundly touches the hearts of guests. How does this philosophy translate into the daily operations and services offered, and how do you ensure that every guest feels the essence of luxury during their visit?

FP: No mysteries here – I, personally, take a hands-off approach in this regard.

I consider myself fortunate to lead an exceptional team. They are passionate about their work, warmly welcoming, and sincerely eager to share their knowledge with our guests – they are the ones running the show!

My primary role is to ensure that every team member is driven by the right motivations. I focus on evaluating and guaranteeing that each associate is genuinely committed, putting their heart into their tasks. Following this, the well-trained managers’ work and the inherent enchanting hospitality of the Thai people naturally unfold.

LLA: Every renowned restaurant usually has signature dishes that define its culinary identity. Could you highlight a few of Kiree’s signature dishes that guests consistently rave about, and what makes them stand out?

FP: Let me pick some of our iconic starter, main course, and dessert in order to ensure we cover most of our menu. As a starter, my recommendation will go t the Hose smoked Pork belly Ravioli, locally sourced pork belly, slowly cooked and smoked in-house is placed in a homemade ravioli and garmented with a Kaffir Lime foam freshly cut from our garden, a must-try if you visit our Restaurant.

As a main course, I would go for our revision of the traditional bouillabaisse from the south of France called here the “Trully Sapid” the fish soup is in agreement with “Tom Yum” spices and the fish is a locally sourced Grouper fileted usually served with a great Chablis white wine.

To end the dinner I would recommend our rosemary & Pineapple carrot slice, a traditional carrot cake revisited and infused with Rosemary and pineapple flavors, a surprising dessert.

LLA: Kiree is committed to using locally sourced ingredients. Could you share some examples of how the restaurant incorporates local flavors and produce from Koh Samui into its dishes?

FP: Certainly! Let me highlight some of our iconic selections spanning across our menu. For a captivating starter, I highly recommend our House-Smoked Pork Belly Ravioli. Crafted with locally sourced pork belly, meticulously slow-cooked, and smoked in-house, this exquisite dish features homemade ravioli adorned with a Kaffir Lime foam freshly cut from our garden. It’s a culinary delight that is a must-try when you visit our restaurant.

Moving on to our main course, I suggest indulging in our reinterpretation of the traditional bouillabaisse from the south of France, aptly named “Truly Sapid.” This unique dish sees the fish soup harmoniously infused with the vibrant spices of “Tom Yum,” complemented by locally sourced Grouper fillet. It pairs exceptionally well with a splendid Chablis white wine, creating a dining experience that captures the essence of both French and Thai flavors.

Concluding your dinner on a sweet note, I recommend our Rosemary & Pineapple Carrot Slice. This dessert offers a delightful twist on the classic carrot cake, expertly infused with the aromatic notes of rosemary and the tropical essence of pineapple. Prepare for a surprising and satisfying finale to your culinary journey.

LLA: For someone experiencing Kiree for the first time, what would be Chef Khun Julong’s top recommendations from the menu, and is there a particular dining approach that you suggest for maximizing the overall experience?

FP: Let the chef decide for you! Our talented team is dedicated to curating a personalized menu crafted specifically for you, guaranteeing a memorable and exceptional dining experience.

Thank you, Francois!

To learn more about Kiree, click the following link:

https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/usmvl-vana-belle-a-luxury-collection-resort-koh-samui/dining/