Santiburi Koh Samui Unveils Refreshed 100 Miles Dining Progr

Season by the Plate: Santiburi Koh Samui Refreshes Acclaimed 100 Miles Dining Programme

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 5, 2025

Santiburi Koh Samui, the luxury retreat by S Hotels & Resorts, is welcoming the new season with a refreshed edition of its acclaimed 100 Miles Dining Programme at the iconic Sala Thai at Santiburi. A beloved culinary landmark for over three decades, the restaurant continues to celebrate authentic Thai flavours through a five-course menu crafted entirely from ingredients sourced within a 100-mile radius of the resort.

At the heart of this initiative lies a deep respect for local heritage, sustainability, and craftsmanship. Each ingredient is handpicked by the head chef from nearby markets and the resort’s organic garden, ensuring freshness and authenticity in every plate. Supporting local fishermen, farmers, and small-scale producers, the menu features wild-caught seafood and naturally harvested produce, paying homage to the island’s natural bounty.

A highlight of this year’s menu is its tribute to the coconut, sourced exclusively from Koh Phangan’s traditional farms, celebrated for their naturally creamy sweetness. In line with the brand’s sustainability ethos, the programme also supports S Hotels & Resorts’ “Green Button” initiative for every 100 Miles Set Menu ordered, a tree is planted at Chiang Rai’s Singha Park, promoting reforestation and environmental education.

The culinary experience unfolds as a flavourful journey through Thailand’s southern coast. Guests begin with Hor Mok Talay, a delicately spiced coconut custard with fresh Surat Thani seafood, served in a mini coconut shell, a creative ode to Samui’s most iconic fruit. The Samui Lobster Carpaccio, paired with tom yum caviar and crisp peanut cracker, adds a modern twist to classic flavours.

The reimagined Tom Yam Goong, prepared with a fragrant coconut water broth, offers a lighter and more aromatic take on the traditional soup. For the main course, Surf ’n’ Earth pairs slow-cooked, grain-fed beef cheeks from Nakhon Si Thammarat with wild-caught Samui red snapper, balanced with Malindjo leaf mousse and Surat-style yellow crab curry, a bold representation of southern Thai craftsmanship.

The meal concludes on a poetic note with Chocolate Coconut Parfait with Raspberries, a dessert that celebrates the coconut in form and spirit. Inspired by the anatomy of the fruit, it features a chocolate shell encasing a silky coconut parfait, finished with bright raspberries. The chocolate, sourced from a local Samui artisan, highlights Thailand’s growing artisanal cacao culture.

Available exclusively at Sala Thai, the 100 Miles Dining Programme can also be enjoyed as part of a special stay package, which includes daily breakfast, one 100 Miles Dining experience for two, and 20% off the à la carte menu.

For reservations, visit santiburisamui.com/offers/100-miles-culinary-journey or email fb@santiburisamui.com / rsvn@santiburisamui.com.

TOKYO SKYTREE Brings Cherry Blossom Season to New Heights with “THE Sakura SKYTREE”

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 25, 2026

As Japan gears up for its much-awaited cherry blossom season, Tobu Tower Skytree Co., Ltd. has announced a special spring programme titled “THE Sakura SKYTREE – Going to Meet the Cherry Blossoms Above the Clouds” at TOKYO SKYTREE. The limited-period experience will run from February 26 to April 14, 2026, offering visitors a fresh way to enjoy sakura from 350 metres above ground.

Designed as an alternative to traditional park hanami, the event brings cherry blossom viewing into an urban, elevated setting. Located on the Tembo Deck at Floors 350 and 340, the experience blends sakura-inspired installations with wide, uninterrupted views of Tokyo, allowing visitors to enjoy spring scenery from above the city skyline.

Built around the theme “Sky × Sakura,” the Tembo Deck will be transformed with cherry blossom décor and Japanese-style photo installations. The setting reflects the fleeting beauty of sakura while creating striking visual moments for visitors. With the Tokyo skyline as a backdrop, the space offers a modern interpretation of spring that combines tradition with a sense of scale and spectacle.

For evening visitors, a key attraction will be the seasonal showcase at the SKYTREE ROUND THEATER® on Floor 350. The observatory’s large windows will turn into a panoramic screen for a three-minute visual presentation capturing the delicate and short-lived nature of cherry blossoms. Using 24 projectors and surround sound from 13 speakers, the experience adds a cinematic layer to hanami, bringing together culture, technology, and storytelling.

Adding to the seasonal feel, the SKYTREE CAFE on Floor 350 will launch a limited-edition cherry blossom-themed menu. The offerings will include both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, along with spring-inspired sweets. Highlights include donuts in “Sakura Mochi” and “Sakura Sky Vanilla” flavours, made as 100% plant-based, vegan, and gluten-free options. The menu is designed to be visually appealing and easy to share, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

The spring theme will also extend to the W1SH RIBBON monument on the Tembo Deck, where limited-edition pink ribbons will be available during the event period. Visitors can tie their wishes onto the softly lit pink installation, reflecting themes of renewal and fresh beginnings associated with the season. The monument lighting will also shift to pink to match the overall décor.

On selected evenings, TOKYO SKYTREE itself will light up in special spring illumination called “Sakura SKY (Sakura-Sora).” Inspired by cherry blossoms set against a spring sky, gentle pink beams will represent petals floating in the wind, turning the tower into a seasonal highlight visible across the city.

With immersive décor, visual storytelling, seasonal food, and special lighting, “THE Sakura SKYTREE” positions TOKYO SKYTREE as a standout attraction during spring. By presenting the cherry blossom season from 350 metres above ground, the event offers visitors an experience that feels modern, memorable, and uniquely Tokyo.

Chef Bobby Appointed Sous Chef at TIYA in San Francisco

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 25, 2026

TIYA, a Michelin Guide-recognized restaurant, has announced the appointment of Chef Bobby as its new Sous Chef. The move underlines the restaurant’s continued focus on quality, innovation, and refined modern Indian cuisine in the heart of San Francisco.

In his new role, Chef Bobby will oversee day-to-day kitchen operations at TIYA. His responsibilities include ensuring smooth service, refined plating presentation, well-balanced flavours, and consistent portion control. Through his leadership, the restaurant aims to further strengthen its position as a premium modern Indian dining destination known for creativity, precision, and memorable guest experiences.

Before joining TIYA, Chef Bobby worked as Sous Chef at Madras Group Inc., located at 1177 W El Camino Real, Sunnyvale. There, he supported the Executive Chef in running high-performing kitchen operations. His role included supervising and training culinary teams, maintaining HACCP and ServSafe food safety standards, handling inventory and supplier coordination, and contributing to cost control and menu innovation. His involvement in recipe development and tasting menu execution played a key role in maintaining high dining standards.

Earlier in his career, Chef Bobby gained valuable experience as a Demi Chef de Partie at The Quorum, Two Horizon Center, Golf Course Road, and as a Commi at Hotel Crowne Plaza Mayur Vihar. He began his professional journey at Aamod Resorts, Kandaghat, District Solan, Himachal Pradesh, where he built a strong foundation in kitchen operations and hospitality discipline.

Speaking on his appointment, Chef Bobby said, “Joining TIYA, a Michelin Guide restaurant, as Sous Chef is an exciting milestone in my culinary journey. The brand’s vision of redefining modern Indian cuisine resonates deeply with my passion for innovation and excellence. I look forward to contributing to TIYA’s continued growth and delivering memorable dining experiences to our guests.”

With experience across well-known hospitality brands in both India and the United States, Chef Bobby’s appointment marks a meaningful step forward for TIYA as it continues to raise the bar for modern Indian fine dining in San Francisco.

Unwind in the Sacred Spirit of Ramadan at Novotel Cairo Airport

By Hariharan U

Published on February 24, 2026

As the holy month of Ramadan begins, Novotel Cairo Airport welcomes guests to experience the season in an atmosphere defined by serenity, reflection, and heartfelt hospitality. Designed for both Cairo residents seeking a peaceful retreat within the city and travellers exploring Egypt’s capital, the hotel offers a setting where the spirit of togetherness takes centre stage.

Ramadan at Novotel Cairo Airport focuses on creating meaningful moments. Guests can slow down, reconnect, and embrace the traditions of the holy month while enjoying a comfortable and relaxing stay. The property’s dining venues present thoughtfully curated Iftar and Sohour experiences, blending traditional Ramadan flavours with contemporary touches. Each meal is crafted to bring families, friends, couples, and colleagues together around the table in celebration.

For corporate guests, the hotel provides fully equipped banquet rooms and dedicated facilities suited for Iftars, Sohour gatherings, and Ramadan celebrations. The spaces are designed to encourage connection and appreciation, offering organisations a welcoming environment to host teams and partners during the blessed month.

A highlight of the season is the exclusive Ramadan dessert display, available throughout the day. Guests can indulge in a carefully selected assortment of oriental pastries, featuring both classic favourites and delicately crafted treats that reflect the flavours of Ramadan. Whether enjoyed on-site or taken home to share, the sweet offerings add a festive touch to the experience.

More than a destination to stay or dine, Novotel Cairo Airport positions itself as a place where Cairo’s Ramadan evenings come alive with warmth and community spirit. It is a space to unwind after a long day of fasting, reflect on the blessings of the season, and create lasting memories.

Part of the global Accor portfolio, Novotel operates over 590 hotels across more than 65 countries and participates in the ALL – Accor Live Limitless lifestyle loyalty programme, offering members access to rewards and exclusive experiences worldwide.

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Season by the Plate: Santiburi Koh Samui Refreshes Acclaimed 100 Miles Dining Programme

Most Read In News

TOKYO SKYTREE Brings Cherry Blossom Season to New Heights with “THE Sakura SKYTREE”

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Chef Bobby Appointed Sous Chef at TIYA in San Francisco

Most Read In News

Unwind in the Sacred Spirit of Ramadan at Novotel Cairo Airport

Most Read In News