Kfir Edri isn't just a restaurateur; he's the visionary leader redefining Koh Samui’s culinary landscape. With over 25 years of experience, Edri has built a remarkable career characterized by innovation, passion, and exceptional hospitality, mastering every detail from kitchen management to creative menu development.
Currently serving as CEO of Liam Company, Edri manages an impressive portfolio of popular restaurants on Koh Samui, including the acclaimed Tabula Rasa. Under his guidance, Tabula Rasa has gained fame for its diverse menu that beautifully blends Mediterranean, French, Thai, and Eastern culinary traditions, delivering an unforgettable dining experience.
But Edri's vision extends beyond the plate. His restaurants are celebrated for their vibrant atmosphere, featuring live music and impeccable service, ensuring guests enjoy not just a meal, but a memorable evening out.
A committed advocate of culinary innovation, Edri continuously inspires creativity among his teams, staying ahead of industry trends and enhancing Koh Samui's reputation as a vibrant food destination. Through his dynamic leadership, Edri is shaping the future of dining on the island, making a lasting and flavorful impact.
Can you tell us a bit about the concept behind Tabula Rasa and how it stands out in Chaweng’s dining scene?
At Tabula Rasa, we wanted to create a space that feels like the perfect start to your night out in Chaweng. Our concept combines a love for Mediterranean flavors with a modern dining experience that’s approachable yet refined. We’re not just about great food—we’re about creating a vibe. Whether it’s the warm hospitality, the inviting decor, or the energy we bring to the table, Tabula Rasa stands out as the go-to spot for those who want more than just a meal.
How does the location complement the dining experience you offer?
We’re located right in the heart of Chaweng, which is the pulse of Samui’s nightlife. It’s vibrant, lively, and full of energy, just like us. For tourists, it’s the perfect spot to fuel up before diving into Chaweng’s buzzing streets. And for locals, it’s a place to unwind, connect, and enjoy a high-quality meal without venturing too far from the action.
Tabula Rasa is known for its Mediterranean dishes. What inspired the menu, and how do you bring those flavors to life?
Mediterranean cuisine is all about freshness, simplicity, and bold flavors. It’s rooted in traditions that celebrate good ingredients and shared experiences, which is exactly what we aim to deliver here. From oven-baked pizzas to mezze platters, every dish is crafted to transport you to that part of the world. We use premium ingredients and authentic techniques, ensuring the flavors are vibrant and true to their origins.
Steaks are a big part of your menu. Can you tell us about the quality of the Australian beef you serve and what makes it so special?
We take pride in serving only the finest Australian beef, aged in-house for maximum flavor and tenderness. Our selection includes large, high-quality bone-in cuts like T-Bone and Porterhouse, made from premium Grain-Fed Black Angus and Wagyu. But a great steak is more than just the cut—it’s about the care we put into every step. We season it to enhance its natural richness, grill it to perfection, and serve it with sides that complement the flavors. It's this dedication to quality that makes every steak at Tabula Rasa an experience worth savoring.
Aside from the food, what else makes the Tabula Rasa experience unforgettable—be it the cocktails, the atmosphere, or the service?
It’s all about the synergy between great food, drinks, and atmosphere. Our bar serves up incredible cocktails that are crafted to pair perfectly with our menu. And then there’s the music—every night, we have live DJs spinning funky tunes to set the tone. The whole experience is designed to make you feel like you’ve found a place that’s both elevated and down-to-earth.
As the manager, what’s the one thing you’re most proud of about Tabula Rasa?
I’m proud of how we’ve managed to create a place where people genuinely love to spend their time. Whether it’s a couple on a romantic date, a group of friends kicking off their night, or someone discovering our menu for the first time, the feedback we get reminds us that we’re doing something special here.
Tabula Rasa has truly redefined the dining landscape in Chaweng, seamlessly blending culinary innovation with an atmosphere that keeps guests returning night after night. Under Edri's visionary leadership, the restaurant continues to set the standard for memorable dining experiences on Koh Samui.
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