Eating Out Koh Samui

There is a huge variety of places to eat on the island. In Chaweng, Lamai, Taling Nam, Nathon, Mae Nam, Bophut and between you will find numerous restaurants and small eateries. It seems every day a new establishment is opened. The range of food types is also huge.

At first glance you may wonder where the Thai food is - but don't fear great Thai food - from cheap market stalls to restaurants on the beach to Royal Thai food offered in luxurious five star hotel settings - is readily available. Fast Food Chains, Pizzas, Sushi, Vegetarian food, Norwegian Reindeer Pate, Tandoori Chicken, and English Roasts, if your cup of tea, are all available on Samui plus much more. The Samui Dining Guide provides full details on the more upmarket and touristic restaurants.

Try the local cuisine to feel as if you really are somewhere different. Thai cuisine is rich in variety and totally its own - it is tangy and spicy and belongs to the landscape and climate. Creamy pasta sauces will not help you cope with the tropical heat - a fresh spicy Thai salad works a treat. Take the risk - give it a go. If you order a dish which is traditionally served very spicy the wait staff will ask you how spicy you want it - but don't be offended they will ask local guests as well.

In the markets you will find fresh and whole foods, glorious tropical and Thai fruits and small food vendors selling a range of Thai snacks. Snacking is an important part of the Thai eating day - try it and see why it is so popular. Some of the best tastes and smells come from snack stalls (often mobile) - bbq bananas, noodle dishes, green mango salad, pancakes savoury and sweet, and satay to name a few.