Koh Samui, a tropical paradise in Thailand that gained worldwide recognition, is not only known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife but also for its incredible place for well-known seafood picked up directly from the ocean. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for the island’s finest dining experiences, Koh Samui got you covered with a diverse range of restaurants. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 best-rated restaurants in Koh Samui, each offering a unique blend of flavors, ambiance, and unforgettable dining moments. Get ready to discover the culinary gems that make this island a true haven for food lovers.
Key Takeaways
- Most recommended restaurants in Koh Samui offer both Thai and international dishes.
- Famous Italian restaurants in Koh Samui are Dr Frogs Italian Bar & Grill and Coco Tam’s x Peppina.
- The Shack is a famous SteakHouse in Koh Samui recommended for meat lovers.
- Sa Bieng Lae offers Thai traditional seafood dishes as well as traditional southern dishes.
Po-Lad Beach Bistro & Bar
Po-Lad Beach Bar is the ideal spot for a laid-back lunch, pre-dinner drinks, or post-dinner cocktails with small bites sitting in a hidden place like the Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui. They offer a selection of creative cocktails, and mocktails for non-alcoholic drinkers, as well as all kinds of alcoholic beverages including local and international craft beers and wines. The restaurant offers both Asian and Western dishes with regularly updated specials where you can always find something new in the same place without getting bored during your visit. What makes it even better is that you can savor your favorite food and drinks while being pleased by the stunning views of the sparkling ocean.
Opening Hours: Daily from 11 AM – 10 PM
Location: 84 Moo 5, Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320, Thailand | Google map
Phone: +66 7724 5678
Dining on the Rocks
Welcome to the award-winning restaurant from Koh Samui located on the headland’s tip with breathtaking panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand. Sits on the cliff edge of the Six Senses Samui Resort presents an open-air large wooden terrace where you will enjoy your creative concept meals crafted by organic and sustainable ingredients sourced locally and internationally. Dining under the stars with the open-air atmosphere embracing nice evening weather. This place is an ideal setting for a romantic date with dimmed lights enhancing a lovey-dovey and warm ambiance. Their delicate menu features a combination of local Thai flavors and international cuisine paired with your favorite wine of choice. Dining on the Rocks is a perfect place to invite your friends or loved ones to spend special occasions together, a highlight for any visitors visiting Koh Samui where you will bring back good memories to your hometown.
Opening Hours: Daily from 6 PM – 10:30 PM
Location: 9/10 Moo 5, Baan Plai Laem, Bophut, Koh Samui, 84320 | Google map
Phone: +66 7724 5678
Dr Frogs Italian Bar & Grill
Introducing Dr Frogs, an award-winning gourmet Italian restaurant that has been recognized for eight consecutive years. Located on the coast of Chaweng Noi and surrounded by the beautiful tropical greenery of Koh Samui, this restaurant offers a warm welcome and friendly staff from the moment you arrive. Dr Frogs specializes in both exceptional authentic Italian dishes and traditional Thai cuisine, all set against the stunning backdrop of the crystal blue ocean. They promise an unforgettable dining experience that lives up to their reputation.
Opening Hours: Daily from 7 AM – 10 PM
Location: Chaweng Noi 103 B, Moo Bophut 3 Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320 | Google map
Phone: +66 7744 8505
FishHouse Restaurant and Bar
Sitting inside the 5-star hotel Kimpton Kitalay resort is the famous beach house-style restaurant, FishHouse. Crafting from fresh local ingredients representing the Samui Ocean through the art of food creating several signature menus including an afternoon tea set and fancy cocktails. Take a seat on the deck by the beach to enjoy the sea breeze with the lively atmosphere of Choengmon Beach, one of the most peaceful and beautiful beaches on the island. FishHouse’s meals lean towards the quote “sharing is caring” with shared platter dishes where you will share this tasty yummy cuisine with your friends. Their recommendation is Signature Cold Seafood Platters and Towers – the tower is packed with loads of fresh seafood including large oysters, shrimps, and lobsters. Another best seller of this elegant restaurant is Black Paella, the meal derived from Spain that provides you the taste of the ocean with the mix of squid ink which is where the menu’s name originated from.
Opening Hours: Daily from 12 PM – 10 PM
Location: 10/79 Moo 5 Bophut, Choeng Mon Beach, Surat Thani 84320 | Google map
Phone: +66 7795 1900
The View Dining
Taking al fresco dining to new heights, this breathtaking venue offers a unique dining experience with sweeping views of the resort. This luxurious restaurant in Koh Samui invites guests on a culinary journey through Mediterranean classics, reimagined with a fresh twist. The View Dining at The Peak is renowned for its spectacular vistas and exceptional service. The menu features a diverse selection of beautifully presented dishes, making it a top recommendation. The attentive staff ensures that every guest’s special occasion becomes an unforgettable experience.
Opening Hours: Monday – Tuesday, Friday – Sunday from 6 PM – 10 PM (Closed on Wednesday – Thursday)
Location: 9/123 Moo 5, Tambon Bophut, Koh Samui, Thailand, 84320 | Google map
Phone: +66 7791 5777
Sa Bieng Lae
A popular beachside restaurant on the island features local seafood Thai dishes on Lamai Beach, Koh Samui. They offer traditional seafood dishes in a classic Thai style. This family-run restaurant ensures your fresh meal every day as they have created strong connections with the local fishermen since the very beginning of their business in 1990. They offer more affordable meals than other restaurants in town, making it perfect for those traveling on a budget. Other than seafood, Sa Bieng Lae also offers traditional southern Thai cuisine made from a variety of fresh ingredients sold off the boat and curry. Keep in mind that the food here in southern Thailand is pretty outstanding in hot and spicy flavors (Well…To be honest, almost the whole country features spicy food haha). What’s more, Kluay Buad Shi is a famous Thai dessert that you shouldn’t miss when visiting this restaurant.
Opening Hours: Daily from 10 AM – 10 PM
Location: 438, 82 Moo 1, Thaweerat Pakdee Rd. Tambon Maret, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84310 | Google map
Phone: +66 7733 2651
The Shack
Located in the heart of the Fisherman’s Village, is an original and only ‘Rhythm n Blues’ themed restaurant for meat lovers. The Shack is the longest-standing SteakHouse and Seafood Grill in Koh Samui which was established in 2003. It’s probably home to all expats and tourists whenever they crave top-quality grilled food along with local seafood. The Shack has gained popularity and created a strong reputation for its fair prices and warm friendly service presenting the restaurant’s overall welcoming atmosphere. Imported from Australia and Japan, their menus promise great quality appetizing meals with gluten-free options also available on the menu.
Opening Hours: Daily from 6 AM – 10:30 PM
Location: 88/3 Moo 1 Fisherman’s Village, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320 | Google map
Phone: +66 81 425 5710
Coco Tam’s x Peppina
At Coco Tam’s, they serve authentic Italian food prepared and created with the best ingredients. This spacious restaurant has been designed to blend in with the magical natural surroundings of the island and is constructed with all-natural materials. It’s the place where pizza meets craft beer and is one of the most well-known restaurants in Koh Samui. Coco Tam’s features the biggest heavenly fire show which appears to be the highlight of this place which draws visitors from all over the world. Walking right into the beachfront welcomes you with bean bag chairs offering chill and relaxed vibes. There are several options of drinks that you can choose from, from soft drinks, craft beers, and cocktails, to a wide selection of fine wines.
Opening Hours: Daily from 1 PM – 12 AM
Location: 62 Tambon Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320 | Google map
Phone: +66 91 915 5664
The Beach Club at Buri Rasa
Located in the Buri Rasa Village Samui, The Beach Club is a delightful beachfront restaurant and bar. This L-shaped al fresco is in the garden right next to the swimming pool shaded by tropical almond and coconut trees. Styles in classic Thai design, The Beach Club offers two distinct menus for lunch and dinner but features both Thai and European dishes. The modern twist on traditional Thai recipes at the restaurant is crafted by skilled chefs who focus on using fresh, local ingredients. Pair it with selected wines from both the Old and New Worlds to enhance your experience on the island.
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:30 AM – 11 PM
Location: 11/2 Moo 2, Chaweng Beach, Bo Phut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani, 84320 Thailand | Google map
Phone: +66 7795 6055
Tree Tops Signature Dining
Tree Tops Signature Dining is known as the most romantic restaurant in Chaweng, Koh Samui nestled within a 120-year-old tree canopy located in Anantara Lawana which offers one of Samui’s most breathtaking views. Ensure a 5-star experience with the award-winning European-Asian cuisine and an impressive wine cellar with 170 labels from 13 countries. A must-visit destination for couples to enjoy a true romantic dinner under the moonlight. Their menus feature both set and à la carte options crafted with refined ingredients that evolve with seasons to offer new and exciting creations to try.
Opening Hours: Daily from 6 PM – 10 AM
Location: 92 1, Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320 | Google map
Phone: +66 7796 0333
The Bottom Line
Koh Samui not only stands out for its picturesque beaches and lively nightlife but also for its exceptional recipes, locally, internationally, and fusion. Each restaurant in this article offers a unique and memorable dining experience. Koh Samui reflects its diverse and rich culture through world-class food. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the culinary gems located in this tropical paradise are sure to enhance your island experience in the south of Thailand and create lasting memories.