It’s a Family Affair
Going back to basics at Dr Frogs Italian Bar & Grill.
Exciting things are currently happening at Dr Frogs Italian Bar & Grill. Situated with enviable, breath-taking sea views along the panoramic Chaweng coastline, the restaurant consists of two covered, open-sided pavilions with wooden decking and fans throughout. The gorgeous view and welcome ocean breeze make it an idyllic spot to sample their new menu. True to form, Dr Frogs celebrates, time-tested authentic Italian and Thai fare, with the great service and finesse that you expect from this iconic cliffside restaurant. The last couple of years have seen a few foreign chefs come and go. Difficulties communicating effectively with Thai staff in terms of culture and language meant their undeniable potential was not fulfilled.
But now a new Thai chef has arrived, and that is all changing. Chef Narim has trained with both American and Italian chefs and is passionate about both Mediterranean and Thai food, keeping the authenticity of each very separate but adding his own unique flair. Every week he conjures up at a tasting tray of tempting bitesize morsels. There is a choice of eight dishes. Choose a plate of three or five. Vote for your favourites and they will be reproduced, meal size, on the specials menu the following week. Chef Narim is keen to please and deliver, feel free to ask for something specific, or give feedback.
The new General Manager of Dr Frogs, and Boujis Boutique Resort (just next door), is Katie, the daughter of one of the owners. She completed her university degree in hospitality and has hands-on experience at some upscale locations such as Samujana Villas, and has the benefit of being half Thai, half English. Living on Samui for most of her life, Katie speaks fluent Thai and understands the culture and how to get the best from her positive friendly team of staff. She is passionate about consistent and ongoing staff training, working to the strengths of each of her team members, expanding their skills and knowledge and delivering exceptional service to the guests. Dr Frogs now has the perfect team, and together they are poised and ready to exceed your dining expectations.
On the new ‘all-day menu’ still expect all your favourite Italian dishes – amazingly tasty pizza, pasta, gnocchi and risotto as well as seafood platters, steaks and salads. Try the Surf and Turf, Spaghetti Marinara and a gorgeously rich Chocolate Fondant. The three-dish tasting-plate features Smoked Salmon and Ricotta, Watermelon Salad and Tuna Tatar. Other tasting-plate ideas are Beef Filet Mignon, Paprika Chicken Quesadillas Pockets and Caesar Salad Wrap. Authentic Thai favourites include Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup), Yam Talay (Spicy Seafood Salad) and Pad Thai (Thai style fried Noodles).
Being on an island, seafood features heavily. Local seafood is utilised but lobster, French oysters and Australian mussels, along with prime Australian beef and New Zealand lamb are all imported to maintain high levels of freshness and quality. At Dr Frogs, all the stock, sauces and soups are made on-site and only the freshest vegetables are used.
The lounge area features a Tapas and Light Bites menu offering delights such as Calamari Friti and Baked Meatball Ciabatta as well as all the pizza combinations that Dr Frogs is famous for.
Choose healthy juices and smoothies if you are feeling virtuous or select from the extensive wine list of over 60 high-quality wines at affordable prices. There is a great selection from Italy, France, Argentina, America, Chile, South Africa, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Austria and Australia and you can buy many wines by the glass. The bar is extremely well stocked and has a great selection of specialist whiskies, Grappa and some surprise cocktails.
Happy hour is daily from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm with buy one get one free on local beer, house wine and all cocktails. Residents can ask for a VIP card, giving them a whopping 20% off food. Dr Frogs has been an institution on Samui for over 12 years now, so rewarding loyal customers is second nature.
Located on the ring road in Chaweng Noi between Boujis Boutique Resort and the viewpoint, and open every day from 7:00 am until 11:00 pm, Dr Frogs is the ideal location for your breakfast, lunch or dinner, party or function.
Delicious and imaginative cuisine at Dr Frogs can be likened to artwork that is admired through the senses of sight, smell and taste. Premier grade raw materials, combined and cooked meticulously, allow you to sample the full textures and flavours of each dish. The menu is a perfect balance, offering diners both authentic Italian and traditional Thai cuisine.
A new year, new chef, new menu and new general manager. Same stunning view, same friendly, exceptional service and same exquisite dining experience. It’s now a family affair and this family look forward to exceeding all your dining expectations!
Karan Ladd