Best restaurants in Koh Samui
Koh Samui is a tropical haven in Thailand and not just for its beaches and resorts but also for its food scene. With so many options from street food to fine dining, Koh Samui restaurants have something for every taste. Whether you’re a foodie or a casual tourist, trying the island’s food is a must. This guide will take you through the best Koh Samui restaurants and show you the dishes, views, experiences, and the culinary artistry behind them.
Koh Samui’s Food Scene
Types of Restaurants in Koh Samui
Koh Samui has many types of restaurants, each offering delectable dishes and its own unique culinary experience. From traditional Thai to international bistros, the island has something for everyone. Here are the most common types of restaurants you’ll find in Koh Samui:
- Thai Restaurants: Serving local flavors, these restaurants offer dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong and Som Tum.
- Seafood Restaurants: Being an island, fresh seafood is a highlight. Look for grilled fish, prawns and crabs.
- Italian Restaurants: For a taste of Europe, Koh Samui has several Italian restaurants serving pasta, pizza and other Italian delights.
- Mediterranean Restaurants: Enjoy a Mediterranean twist with dishes featuring fresh vegetables, olive oil and grilled meats.
- Fusion Restaurants: Combining local ingredients with international techniques, these restaurants offer a unique experience.
- Steakhouses: For meat lovers, Koh Samui has several steakhouses serving premium cuts of beef, lamb and pork.
Where to Dine
When it comes to finding the best restaurants, location is everything. Here are the most popular dining areas in Koh Samui:
- Chaweng Beach: Known for its nightlife, Chaweng Beach has many restaurants, bars and cafes.
- Bophut Beach: A quieter option, Bophut Beach has several dining options with sea views.
- Fisherman’s Village: This charming area has a mix of traditional Thai and modern restaurants for a laid back dining experience. Fisherman’s Village is a vibrant culinary hub that attracts both tourists and locals, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.
- Lamai Beach: Another popular area, Lamai Beach has many dining options from beachside cafes to fine dining restaurants.
Koh Samui Specialties
When in Koh Samui, trying Koh Samui’s cuisine is a must. Here are the island’s specialties:
- Pad Thai: Stir-fried noodles, tofu, shrimp and tamarind sauce.
- Tom Yum Goong: Spicy and sour soup with shrimp, lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves.
- Som Tum: Green papaya salad with sweet, sour and spicy flavors.
- Massaman Curry: Beef, potatoes and peanuts in a rich and creamy curry.
- Khao Pad: Thai-style fried rice with vegetables, chicken or seafood.
- Moo Ping: Grilled pork skewers marinated in a sweet and savory sauce.
Thai Fusion in Koh Samui
Thai fusion cuisine is on the rise in Koh Samui, where local flavors meet international techniques. These restaurants combine Thai ingredients with international methods to create new and delicious dishes. The Jungle Club and Zazen Restaurant are two of the best.
Best Fine Dining in Koh Samui
Sky Dining
For a luxurious dining experience, sky dining in Koh Samui is the way to go, offering not only stunning views but also fine wines to complement your meal. These restaurants have stunning views of the island and the sea. Here are some of the top sky dining:
- The Cliff Bar & Grill: Cliffside restaurant with Mediterranean and Thai fusion menu.
- Dining on the Rocks: At the Six Senses resort, this restaurant has panoramic views and a gourmet menu.
- Air Bar: Famous for its sunsets and creative cocktails, Air Bar offers sky dining with Thai and international dishes.
Dining on the Rocks at Six Senses
Dining on the Rocks is one of Koh Samui’s most famous dining experiences. Located at the Six Senses resort, this restaurant has a multi-level dining area with terraced decks overlooking the sea. The menu is a mix of Thai and international dishes with fresh local ingredients.
Signature Dishes:
- Seared Scallops: With cauliflower puree and truffle oil.
- Wagyu Beef: Grilled to perfection with seasonal vegetables.
- Lobster Bisque: Rich and creamy soup with fresh lobster and cognac.
Romantic Dining
Koh Samui is a couples’ paradise and the island has many romantic dining venues for a special night out, often enhanced by the presence of palm trees. Here are some of the best:
- Tree Tops Sky Dining: In the heart of the forest, this restaurant is a private and intimate dining experience with views.
- Saffron at Banyan Tree: Exquisite Thai cuisine and elegant setting for a romantic dinner.
- The Dining Room at Rocky’s Boutique Resort: Candlelit tables and ocean views for a romantic ambiance and Thai and international menu.
Best Budget Restaurants in Koh Samui
Budget Eateries
You don’t have to spend a fortune to eat in Koh Samui, especially with the scenic views of Koh Phangan enhancing your dining experience. There are many budget eateries serving good food at affordable prices. Here are some of the best:
- Green Bird: Local favorite for tasty and cheap Thai dishes.
- Ninja Crepes: Thai and Western dishes at reasonable prices.
- My Cafe & Restaurant: Cozy spot with Thai and international dishes at affordable prices.
Street Food
Street food is a big part of Thai culture and Koh Samui has a lively and diverse street food scene. Must-try street food:
- Mango Sticky Rice: Sweet and savory dessert with glutinous rice, fresh mango and coconut milk.
- Grilled Skewers: Various meats and seafood grilled to perfection with spicy sauce.
- Coconut Ice Cream: Fresh coconut milk ice cream served in a coconut shell.
- Roti: Thai-style pancake with banana, chocolate or other sweet fillings.
Specialty Restaurants in Koh Samui
Seafood Restaurants
Being a coastal island, Koh Samui is a seafood heaven. Here are some of the best seafood restaurants:
- The Fisherman’s Outlet: In Fisherman’s Village, this restaurant has a wide range of fresh seafood dishes.
- Barracuda Restaurant: Grilled seafood and elegant setting, a must-visit for seafood lovers.
- The Wharf Samui: Seafood market and restaurant with fresh seafood dishes prepared to order.
Vegetarian and Vegan
For vegetarians and vegans, Koh Samui has several restaurants that cater to these diets. Here are some of the best:
- Pure Vegan Heaven: Popular spot with many vegan dishes made with fresh local ingredients.
- The Art Cafe: Creative vegetarian and vegan menu, a favorite among health-conscious diners.
- Anchan Vegetarian Restaurant: Thai and international vegetarian dishes, a must-visit for plant-based eaters.
International
Koh Samui’s dining scene isn’t just about Thai food. The island has many international options:
- Prego: Italian restaurant with wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta.
- Kob Thai Restaurant: Thai and Mediterranean dishes, perfect for fusion food lovers.
- Stacked Samui: American-style diner with burgers, steaks and comfort food.
Special Dining
Fire Shows and Entertainment
Many restaurants in Koh Samui have live entertainment, including traditional Thai fire shows. These add to the dining experience. Here are some of the best:
- Koh Thai Kitchen: At the Four Seasons Resort, live fire shows and Thai and international dishes.
- The Shack Bar & Grill: Lively atmosphere and entertainment, great for a night out.
- Ark Bar Beach Resort: Nightly fire shows and beachfront setting, perfect for a fun dining experience.
Beachfront
Dining by the beach is one of the best things about Koh Samui. The beachfront restaurants offer beautiful views and a chill atmosphere. Here are some of the best:
- Coco Tam’s: In Fisherman’s Village, Thai and international dishes with sea views.
- The Beach Club at Buri Rasa: Beachfront location and seafood, perfect for a chill dining experience.
- Ocean’s 11: Thai and international dishes, beachfront dining with a touch of class.
Tips for Dining in Koh Samui
Best Time to Go
To get the most out of your dining in Koh Samui, go at the right time. Here’s how:
- Lunch: Less crowded and many restaurants have lunch deals.
- Dinner: For a romantic and chill atmosphere, go for sunset. Reservations recommended for popular spots.
- Early Bird Specials: Some restaurants have early bird specials with discounted prices for early diners.
Booking
Given the popularity of some restaurants, booking is highly recommended especially for fine dining. Here’s how to do it:
- Call Ahead: Many restaurants take bookings by phone. Call a few days in advance.
- Online Booking: Some restaurants have online booking systems, make it easy to book a table.
- Hotel Concierge: If you’re staying at a hotel, the concierge can help with bookings and recommendations.
Local Tips
When dining in Koh Samui, be aware of local etiquette and customs. Here’s what to do:
- Respect Local Customs: Remove your shoes if required.
- Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated. 10% is considered generous.
- Sharing Dishes: Thai meals are served family-style, so sharing is common and encouraged.
Best restaurants in Koh Samui
Koh Samui Dining in a Nutshell
Koh Samui’s dining scene is as colorful as the island itself. From fine dining to street food, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for Thai food, seafood or international cuisine, Koh Samui restaurants will give you a dining experience to remember.
Bonus Tips
As you dine in Koh Samui, remember to be adventurous and try new things. Whether it’s a fine dining or street food, every meal is a chance to taste the island’s culinary treasure. So go ahead, eat, enjoy the views and make the most of it.