More than just a tropical paradise with its white sandy beaches, pretty palm trees and turquoise blue waters, Koh Samui is fast becoming a favourite island destination for foodies. We’ve got the dish on some of the island’s best eats for your palate pleasure, whether it’s French food, seafood or comfort food (if you can tear away from your beachfront villa).
#1 Barracuda Restaurant
Where: The Wharf Samui, 62/9 Moo. 1, Tambon Bophut, Suratthani
What: Taking advantage of the local produce, Barracuda serves only the freshest of fishes, fruits and vegetables (we hear that the restaurant representatives are first in line at the markets every day to ensure this). With a Mediterranean influenced menu that changes every three months, even regular diners still get excited. You’ll be singing “Ooooooh, Barracuda!” in no time.
#2 Chez François
Where: 33/2 Moo1 Fisherman’s village, Amphoe Koh Sa-Mui, Surat Thani
What: Not many would expect mind-blowing, palate-pleasing French meals on a little Thai island, yet that’s exactly what diners of Chez François get. Serving classic French food with a local twist thanks to the chef’s creative use of local ingredients, the restaurant is one of the finest examples of East meets West on the island.
#3 Bully Steakhouse
Where: 32/6 Moo 4, Airport Road, Bangrak, Amphoe Koh Sa-Mui, Surat Thani
What: Those craving a carnivorous meal in Koh Samui would be well advised to head to Bully Steakhouse, where prime cuts are grilled to perfection. Along with an extensive wine list, steak lovers have a choice of the best Black Angus cuts such as Australian Strip Loin, Rib Eye, Tenderloin, T-Bone and the creme of the crop, the Chateaubriand. With steaks like these, even vegetarians might reconsider.
#4 Mathis Cafe
Where: 199 Moo 1,Soi 4, Tambon Mae Nam Ko Samui District, Surat Thani
What: In the mood for some comfort food in this tropical paradise but can’t decide whether to go for local or international flavours? Why not both. At Mathis, you’ll find sumptuous Thai specialties like Tom Yam and Pad Thai alongside gourmet burgers made with Wagyu beef, and seafood Linguine made with the freshest squids, mussels and prawns.
#5 Bang Po Seafood Restaurant
Where: Along Mae Nam Beach, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani (keep an eye out for the restaurant sign — it’s that low key).
What: If you’re looking for authentic Thai, kick-off-your-shoes-and-eat-with-your-fingers kind of food in Koh Samui, Bangpo is the place to go. Not only is this family-run restaurant a favourite with the locals (so you know it’s the real deal), it’s also been named one of the Best Beach Restaurants In The World by Travel + Leisure. Specialty dishes include the deep-fried red snapper and spicy mango and sea urchin salad.
Check out the best places to stay in Koh Samui!
Image credits: Main, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
