Driving in from the commercial main stretch of Hua Hin into the grounds of the Anantara Hua Hin, we are transported through illuminated palm trees and thick, lush foliage towards a palatial lobby. Designed as a traditional Thai village following a luxury hotel renovation, the lobby sets the scene for the evening, introducing us to this discerning Thai hotel.
Flowing silks and local artefacts are set alongside plush furniture and polished dark woods; each carefully playing their part in illustrating the opulent charisma of this luxurious hotel. It isn’t everyday you come across a lobby space so charismatic and aesthetically considered that it continuingly lures you to stay within its enchanting periphery. We reluctantly move onwards, deeper into the 14-acre paradise in search of the hotel’s Rim Nam restaurant.
Through the pool lagoon gardens and past the attractive bar, amongst the darkness paths are aglow with striking large fire torches, promising something greater beyond. With hints of the open ocean ahead of us we arrive at the resort’s traditional Thai restaurant: Rim Nam. Overlooking one of the pools which at night add to the sultry setting, Rim Nam is as sophisticated as a Thai restaurant can be. Complete with charming colonial touches with a fresh ocean breeze, Rim Nam guides diners on a fragrant culinary tour across the Kingdom.
Described as a ‘chic rendez-vous retreat’ Rim Nam’s menu exhibits time-honoured recipes and cooking styles, presented in a fine-dining setting. Here to enjoy their Thai set menu we taste a parade of their signature dishes with local Thai wine and cocktails. Crunchy fresh spring rolls arrive alongside spicy grilled salmon salad with Thai herbs and lemongrass demonstrating a bounty of flavours and spices, this is followed by a fragrant, smooth Tom Kha Gai soup.
Rim Nam’s capabilities are showcased with a collection of divine main courses that sweep in. Rich and nutty Massaman chicken curry with potato and cashew nut is the pinnacle of our evening, complete with two impressive whole sweet and sour fish plates. These main dishes were matched with crunchy bowls of stir fried vegetables with oyster sauce and garlic. A favourite Thai dessert, mango with sticky rice rounded off the evening.
With a prime location on the ocean front, we leave Rim Nam and head to the ocean to dip our toes before wandering our way back through the hotel’s opulent grounds. With properties located across Asia, the Middle East and Europe, Anantara Hotels connect discerning travellers to genuine places, people and their stories. Encapsulating the very finest aspects of the most exciting destinations through unforgettable design and great hospitality. Next time, I’m planning on not only visiting for dinner.
Anantara Hua Hin Resort & Spa: 43/1 Phetkasem Beach Road Tambon Hua Hin, Amphoe Hua Hin, Chang Wat Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110, Thailand, huahin.anantara.com, +66 32 520 250
