Review

Flames at InterContinental Samui delivers a relaxed beachfront dining that blends barefoot luxury with polished service. Tables spill directly onto the soft white sand, where diners enjoy the rhythm of the surf beneath an open sky. The atmosphere is both family-friendly and elegant, elevated by live performances six nights a week — from mellow acoustic musicians to captivating fire dancers who bring the beach to life after sunset. The menu draws strong Mediterranean influences, with an emphasis on premium seafood prepared with global flair. Phuket lobster wok-fried with tamarind sauce strikes a balance of sweetness and tang, accented by crisp shallots. King crab legs grilled with dill mayonnaise highlight freshness and finesse, while seared tuna tataki gains depth from sesame and wasabi soy. Squid ink risotto adds a darker richness; its glossy grains infused with briny intensity. Sharing platters and overflowing seafood buckets encourage a convivial approach, pairing the day’s best catch with sauces that span from chimichurri and Madeira reduction to zesty Thai seafood dip. For meat lovers, wagyu rib eye, Kurobuta pork belly and Australian short rib showcase confident technique, though seafood remains the restaurant’s signature. Desserts return to comforting classics — tiramisu and mango sticky rice with coconut ice cream. Service is attentive and warm, complemented by an extensive drinks list of tropical cocktails, international wines, whiskies and sake.