Koh Samui has become a destination not only for its beaches and scenery but also for its food. From spicy local favorites to fresh seafood and creative international options, the island’s food scene is a major part of the experience. Whether you’re exploring markets or sitting down at a five-star restaurant, dining on Koh Samui gives you the chance to taste something new every day.
Southern Thai Dishes
One of the first things you’ll notice about food on Samui is that it’s often spicier than what you find in other regions of Thailand. Curries such as gaeng tai pla (a strong fish-based curry) and kua kling (a dry, spicy stir-fry) are packed with herbs and heat. These dishes are bold, intense, and deeply satisfying, best enjoyed with rice and a cold drink nearby.
Seafood Done Right
Given Samui’s location, seafood plays a huge role in daily menus. Many beachside restaurants serve grilled fish, squid, prawns, and shellfish that have been caught just hours earlier. You’ll see whole snapper grilled with garlic and lime, or prawns tossed in tamarind sauce. The simplicity is what makes it so good—fresh ingredients and traditional techniques.
Markets for Every Appetite
Night markets and walking streets are some of the best places to explore local food. You’ll find satay skewers, spring rolls, mango sticky rice, and roti being made right in front of you. These markets also often include food stalls selling regional dishes you might not see in restaurants. It’s affordable, fast, and full of flavor. Don’t leave without trying khanom jeen, a cold rice noodle dish served with curry and raw vegetables.
Creative Thai Fusion
Samui has seen a rise in creative cooking that blends Thai ingredients with other cuisines. Some restaurants take classic dishes and present them in new ways—green curry pasta, tom yum risotto, or grilled duck with tamarind glaze. It’s a way for local chefs to experiment while still keeping the flavors rooted in Thai cooking.
International Choices
There’s no shortage of international restaurants on the island. You’ll find Italian, Japanese, Indian, and French dining scattered throughout popular areas like Chaweng and Bophut. Many of these are run by expats or chefs with global experience, so the quality can be surprisingly high. If you’re on the island for more than a few days, it’s nice to mix local food with something different now and then.
Healthy and Plant-Based Options
Koh Samui has developed a strong reputation for health-conscious dining, thanks to the wellness retreats and yoga centres spread across the island. You’ll find plenty of cafes offering plant-based, vegan, and gluten-free menus. Dishes like jackfruit tacos, quinoa salads, raw desserts, and cold-pressed juices are common. These spots often focus on local organic produce and creative meat-free options that appeal to both vegans and anyone looking for a light, nourishing meal.
Breakfast and Coffee Spots
For early risers, Samui has a growing number of breakfast cafes that serve smoothie bowls, avocado toast, Thai omelets, and fresh fruit platters. You’ll also find plenty of good coffee on the island, both in small Thai-run shops and in more modern, design-focused cafes. It’s a relaxing way to start the day before heading to the beach.
Beachfront Dining
One of the most memorable parts of dining on Koh Samui is being able to eat right on the sand. Many restaurants set up tables just steps from the water in the evening. It’s a simple but unforgettable setting with candles or lanterns, fresh seafood, and the sound of waves in the background.