Koh Samui's dining scene is one of its strongest suits. Delicious seafood is served up around the island, but there are plenty of other options to get excited about. From upscale offerings at the resorts to modest, open-air eateries on the beach, Koh Samui has plenty to offer diners.
The major dining districts are in Chaweng, Lamai and Bophut beaches. Practically everything is open-air, and many of the mid-range establishments are little more than an array of comfortable tables and chairs, beach umbrellas and a little hidden kitchen serving up fresh-caught seafood. Expect to see plenty of tom yam koong (spicy and sour shrimp soup) and pat pong karee (stuffed crab with Indian spices).
There are a few exceptional establishments on Samui overseen by world-class chefs. Many of these are a part of the mega-resorts, but there are more than a few independent restaurants well worth a visit. Koh Samui's dining scene is still evolving, and new contenders emerge every year.
As with the rest of its commercial offerings, Chaweng's dining scene is thorough. Diners can choose from familiar fast-food restaurants, stylish cafés and exclusive fine dining. Restaurants in every category vie for a slice of the beach, and there are several eateries where the view is as attractive as the food.
Bophut's beach and the Fisherman's Village is an especially atmosphere place to grab a bite to eat. The waterfront is lined with pubs, atmospheric cafés and upscale restaurants that serve a mix of western favorites, southern Thai classics and fusion. Seafood headlines the menus in Bophut.
Lamai Beach is quiet when compared to Chaweng, but it still has plenty for the gourmand. Most of the restaurants cluster in the central district within easy walking distance of each other and the beach. Diners choose from a broad selection of open-aired eateries serving affordable, international fare.
The less-developed west coast is a great place to dine, not only for its remote character, but also for the outstanding sunsets. Restaurants here are fewer and farther between, and they require transportation. The trade-off is low prices and attentive service in a less touristy atmosphere.
Radiance Restaurant
Route 4169, Lamai Bay
Phone: +66 7 723 0855
Part of the Spa Resort restaurant group, this fine vegetarian restaurant specializes in dishes built around fresh, organic produce. There are a few chicken and fish dishes on the menu, but most of the fare at the Spa Restaurant is strictly meatless.
The Mangrove
32/6 Moo 4, Bophut Beach
Phone: +66 7 742 7584
This romantic French restaurant is close to the airport in the Fisherman's Village area. The Mangrove is popular with expatriates, who appreciate the changing flavors on the menu. Diners are stationed in an open-air hall with views overlooking a stand of mangroves.
Zico's
38/2 Moo 3, Chaweng Beach
Phone: +66 7 723 1560
This restaurant is hosted by Centara Resort and sports a lively Brazilian theme. Barbecued meats are sold a la carte or as part of an all-you-can-eat package, but the best part of Zico's is the experience. From the wandering passadors (waiters) to the tail-feathered performers, Zico's is a one-of-a-kind place.
Betelnut
46/27 Chaweng Boulevard, Chaweng Noi Bay
Phone: +66 7 741 3370
Betelnut is one of Koh Samui's most popular restaurants. The menu is riddled with creative dishes with playful names, and it includes plenty of Thai and Western flavors. The wine and tapas menu is particularly enticing.
Find more information about Koh Samui and hotels in the area:
Koh Samui hotels | Thailand hotels
