Thailand’s Underrated Food restaurants in Koh Samui, renowned for its tranquil beaches and luxury resorts, is rapidly earning a place on the global culinary map as Thailand’s top destinations for food lovers. While Thailand has long dazzled with its flavour-forward street food, Koh Samui is stepping into the spotlight with a dining scene that is nothing short of delightful. This island is brimming with sensory rewards, from panoramic views to palate-expanding cuisines, making it a must-visit spot for travellers.
Whether it is a toast to love on a honeymoon with sunset ocean views or simply indulging in a tropical escape, your experience here would be incomplete without exploring the best restaurants Koh Samui has to offer. This guide features a selection of standout dishes and everyday favourites, ideal for food lovers looking to try something new.
Lamai Beachfront Dining Options: Elegant Eats Near The Lamai Samui
Lamai Beach, known for its pristine sands and laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere, is home to several exceptional dining venues. For guests at The Lamai Samui, luxury is practically at your doorstep, with a selection of mouth-watering options just a few minutes away. Here are some standout restaurants that capture the essence of island dining, starting with our very own signature dining venue:
The Plate – Ocean Scenery and Sunset Views at The Lamai Samui
Set along the tranquil shores of Lamai Beach, The Plate provides a sensory journey into coastal luxury, which opens from 7 AM to 11 PM (last order at 10.30 PM). Located within the lush tropical gardens of The Lamai Samui, this open-air and ocean-facing dining destination pairs modern Thai and international cuisine with panoramic sea views, making it one of the most elegant yet relaxed dining experiences one can get.
As the sun dips below the horizon, guests are treated to a spectacular show of golden light shimmering over the Gulf of Thailand. Ideal for sunset dinners, beachfront brunches, afternoon tea and breakfast-goers, experience serene dining without leaving the resort with a setting that adds a romantic, almost cinematic quality to every meal.
The menu showcases locally sourced ingredients with a contemporary twist from fresh-caught seafood including lobster and Thai curries to International favourites presented with flair. The curated beverage list and attentive service elevates the experience, making The Plate restaurant in samui an exceptional choice for both casual yet elevated dining and special celebrations.
The Plate also features daily dining offers and exclusive promotions, perfect for food and beverage lovers looking to enjoy the best culinary experiences on Koh Samui.
Price Scale: $$
Getting there: Located right in the heart of The Lamai Samui resort, come visit The Plate which is by the beach and facing the resort’s swimming pool. See below for the directions on how to get there: https://maps.app.goo.gl/CgugZgYdTwc1SCBQ8
Baobab – Beachfront Dining with a French-Thai Twist
Located directly on Lamai Beach, Baobab combines the relaxed vibes of a beach bar with the precision of French cooking and the spice of Thai cuisine. Think grilled sea bass with lemongrass, Thai red curry with duck, and indulgent chocolate mousse for dessert. The barefoot dining setting just steps away from the water opens from 8.30 AM to 6 PM (last order at 5.30 PM), making this an excellent pick for a laid-back lunch or an early evening bite with your toes in the sand.
Price Scale: $$
Getting there: From The Lamai Samui, it takes 9 minutes by car to get to Baobab located on the eastern coast of the island. See below for the directions on how to get there: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NSnwX74zvjAQg4oN6
Seventy Fahrenheit – Contemporary Dining in Lamai
A short stroll from The Lamai Samui, Seventy Fahrenheit opens from 4 PM to 10.30 PM (last order at 10 PM), offering a stylish, modern restaurant experience with a fusion of Thai and international dishes. The ambience is minimalist chic, enhanced by soft lighting and crisp service. Top menu highlights include seared tuna steak, Thai basil stir fry with tenderloin beef, and creative cocktails crafted with tropical ingredients. Receiving high praise for its innovative menu and stylish ambience, this contemporary restaurant is ideal for a romantic dinner or a small group outing.
Price Scale: $$
Getting there: If you are staying at The Lamai Samui, it takes 5 minutes by car to get to Seventy Fahrenheit, located on the eastern coast of the island.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/2wwMcZYof4CDAKXp6
NO Stress – Rustic Beach Vibes, Big Flavors
True to its name, NO Stress is a low-key beachfront gem that does not skimp on quality. The atmosphere is rustic and bohemian, with seating right on the sand and ambient music setting the tone. The menu leans toward European comfort food like fresh plates of pasta, grilled meats, and seafood platters, all served with generous portions and friendly service. Opening from 8.30 AM to 6 PM (last order at 5.30 PM), this is a go-to spot for guests who crave gourmet quality in an unpretentious setting.
Price Scale: $$
Getting there: If you are staying at The Lamai Samui, it takes 9 minutes by car to get to NO Stress located on the eastern coast of the island.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Eb2UjbP74vRTrDxRA
Imchai Thai Food – Authentic, Local, and Loved by All
Price Scale: $
Getting there: If you are staying at The Lamai Samui, it takes 2 minutes by car to get to Imchai Thai Food located on the eastern coast of the island.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/4GrVNZCuBy1yDp2p8
Fine Dining with a View: The Most Scenic Gourmet Restaurants in Koh Samui
Few places blend fine dining and cinematic sunsets like Koh Samui. For upscale travellers, the appeal goes beyond flavours and extends to the full sensory experience from ocean breezes, curated wine lists, and settings that linger in your memory.
Jahn – Elevated Thai Elegance at Conrad Koh Samui
Perched high above the Gulf of Thailand on the western coast, Jahn at Conrad Koh Samui is a luxury icon that opens from 5 PM to 11 PM (last order at 10.30 PM). It offers contemporary Thai cuisine with dramatic presentation and panoramic sunset views. Look forward to having some foie gras with tamarind sauce or Massaman lamb shank, all served in a low-lit, ultra-refined setting.
Price Scale: $$$
Getting there: If you are staying at The Lamai Samui, it takes 35 minutes by car to get to Jahn at Conrad Koh Samui located on the southern coast of the island.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/p8zKermwaQpTkCPt5
The Cliff Bar & Grill – Mediterranean Meets Ocean Breeze
Open from 12 PM to 10 PM (last order at 9.30 PM) daily, The Cliff Bar & Grill boasts one of the most dramatic dining locations on the island. Perched on a rocky outcrop between Chaweng Noi and Lamai Beach, this Mediterranean-inspired restaurant offers stunning views over the Gulf of Thailand. Renowned for its Tuna tartare, rib-eye steak, grilled tiger prawns and extensive wine list, it is the perfect choice for sunset dinners or leisurely afternoons with a view. Be sure to request a terrace table for the best experience.
Price Scale: $$$
Getting there: If you are staying at The Lamai Samui, it takes 3 minutes by car to get to The Cliff Bar & Grill restaurant located on the eastern coast of the island.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/2djT63KLydT3wW3J9
Dining on the Rocks – Eco-Luxury with a Nine-Course Twist
Tucked within Six Senses Samui, this restaurant is the pinnacle of romantic dining. With just ten terraced tables, it offers an exclusive nine-course tasting menu focused on sustainability and Thai fusion. Open from 6 PM to 10.30 PM (last order at 10 PM) daily, this clifftop setting is matched by thoughtful presentation and artful flavour progression, making it one of the most photographed dining spots in Koh Samui.
Price Scale: $$$
Getting there: If you are staying at The Lamai Samui, it takes 37 minutes by car to get to the Dining on the Rocks restaurant located on the northern coast of the island.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/unbQ7Mj6H4KHkds88
Is fine dining on the beach worth the price in Koh Samui?
Yes, especially for luxury travellers. The price-to-experience ratio is favourable compared to other global destinations. Apart from the food, expect the full package that comes with the setting, service, and unforgettable experience. Fine dining establishments in Koh Samui typically offer even more exclusivity and ambience than their Bangkok counterparts.
Authentic Thai Cuisine for Sophisticated Palates
While street food in Thailand garners global fame, Koh Samui offers a refined take on Thai cuisine that blends heritage with high-end presentation. Travellers from all walks of life will find elegant restaurants that elevate traditional dishes with fresh, local ingredients and serene surroundings.
Supattra Thai Dining – Boutique Fine Thai
Hidden near Big Buddha in the north of the island, Supattra Thai Dining is a small, family-run restaurant that opens from 6 AM to 10 PM (last order at 9.30 PM) daily with just a few tables known for its signature seafood curries. This place offers authentic southern Thai dishes, such as spicy crab curry and tamarind prawns, using ingredients sourced from local markets. Expect impeccable service, a carefully curated wine list, and food that rivals even the best in Bangkok.
Price Scale: $$
Getting there: If you are staying at The Lamai Samui, it takes 24 minutes by car to get to Supattra Thai Dining located on the northern coast of the island.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/wMchrc2F4zHRAcun9
Sala Thai Art Gallery & Restaurant – Traditional Atmosphere, Elevated Menu
Sala Thai pairs authentic Thai recipes with a tranquil art gallery vibe. This place opens from 12.30 PM to 10 PM (last order at 9.30 PM), serving grilled river prawns with chilli-lime sauce and a golden orange curry in coconut milk. Moreover, the garden setting, traditional decorations, and attentive service make it ideal for romantic evenings or cultural dining experiences.
Price Scale: $$
Getting there: If you are staying at The Lamai Samui, it takes 8 minutes by car to get to Sala Thai Art Gallery & Restaurant located on the eastern coast of the island.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/zZATGXfWJRLvb4Vg7
Baitong Restaurant – Beachfront Thai with Luxury Vibes
Found at Banana Fan Sea Resort on Chaweng Beach, Baitong offers upscale beachfront Thai dining with a sunset backdrop. Open from 7 AM to 11 PM (last order at 10.30 PM) daily, the menu leans into fresh seafood, including blue crab in yellow curry and lemongrass mussels. Its direct beachfront location makes it a favourite for early evening dinners by the waves.
Price Scale: $$
Getting there: If you are staying at The Lamai Samui, it takes 14 minutes by car to get to Baitong Restaurant located on the eastern coast of the island.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/yAMJy1NNGPzyh5tDA
How does Thai fine dining differ from local street food?
Street food is bold, fast, and chaotic in the best way, while fine dining takes these same flavours and refines them. Think better balance, higher quality ingredients, and slower, more curated meals. Thai fine dining lets travellers appreciate the complexity of local dishes in a more intentional setting, often paired with wine or cocktails. Book your next flight ticket to explore the best Thai restaurants in Koh Samui today!
Global Gastronomy: International Cuisine on the Island
The dining scene in Koh Samui does not stop at Thai food. This island caters to an international crowd with high-end restaurants featuring global chefs, imported ingredients, and inventive fusion concepts. Whether it is an authentic Italian food craving or Omakase sushi, Koh Samui delivers.
Tree Tops Signature Dining – Modern European with Treehouse Ambience
Located at Anantara Lawana, Tree Tops offers fine European cuisine in elevated private treehouse-style dining salas. Opening daily from 6 PM to 11 PM (last order at 10.30 PM), get ready to expect dishes like Wagyu beef fillet, foie gras brûlée, and artisan cheese boards, complemented by a wine cellar to match.
Price Scale: $$$
Getting there: If you are staying at The Lamai Samui, it takes 21 minutes by car to get to Tree Tops Signature Dining located on the eastern coast of the island.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/WEz6MmxNRrwRqDrf7
Chez François – French Culinary Art in the Fisherman Village
This hidden gem does not even have a menu and goes by reservations only. Opening from 6:30 PM to 11 PM (last order at 10.30 PM) on Tuesdays to Saturdays, Chef François crafts dishes daily based on seasonal market finds. Guests are treated to a bespoke French dining experience, often starting with champagne and ending with a flourish of chocolate soufflé or flambéed crêpes.
Price Scale: $$$
Getting there: If you are staying at The Lamai Samui, it takes 18 minutes by car to get to Chez François located on the northern coast of the island.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/2QmHBYWzp1g8ajSm7
Gringos Cantina Mexican Restaurant – Colorful Mexican Flavors by the Beach
Bringing the bold, zesty taste of Mexico to Bophut, Gringos Cantina is a lively and flavorful escape from typical island fare. With a menu stacked with enchiladas, sizzling fajitas, and hand-shaken margaritas, this is a vibrant spot for casual dining. The open-air layout and tropical look also makes it feel festive without sacrificing quality. Opening from 2 PM to 11.30 PM (last order at 11 PM), this is the perfect place for families, couples, or groups seeking hearty portions and a splash of spice.
Price Scale: $$
Getting there: If you are staying at The Lamai Samui, it takes 19 minutes by car to get to Gringos Cantina Mexican Restaurant located on the eastern coast of the island.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/vFzKbzXrE3Au15577
Are international restaurants in Koh Samui truly world-class?
Absolutely. Many of these establishments are run by internationally trained chefs who have worked in Michelin-starred kitchens abroad. Combine that expertise with the island charm of Koh Samui, and a dining scene that holds its own against culinary hubs like Singapore or Bali awaits.
Romantic Restaurants for Honeymooners & Special Occasions
Koh Samui is undoubtedly a dream destination for couples, and its dining scene reflects that same romantic energy. Whether you are celebrating your honeymoon, a milestone anniversary, or a spontaneous evening of luxury, the island is home to exceptional restaurants that deliver both ambience and culinary finesse. Each venue listed below offers an atmosphere steeped in intimacy, privacy, and natural beauty, ideal for creating memories that linger long after the last bite.
The Ocean Pier at The Lamai Samui – Dining Above the Water
Tucked within the tranquil grounds of The Lamai Samui, The Ocean Pier is a standout for couples looking to dine in an exceptional setting over the ocean. Extending gently over the sea, this unique floating pier is transformed into a candlelit private dining venue at dusk. Imagine sipping champagne as the waves lap gently below and the sky blushes pink with sunset. Operating from 6 PM to 10 PM (last order at 9.30 PM) daily, curated set menus feature locally inspired seafood dishes and an extensive beverage list including fine wines. With dedicated service and a stunning backdrop, get ready to immerse yourself in a relaxing, intimate experience for private proposals, honeymoon celebrations, and unforgettable sunset dinners and toasts.
Price Scale: $$
Getting there: If you are staying at The Lamai Samui, it takes 3 minutes on foot to get to The Ocean Pier, located on the eastern coast of the island.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/titQKBNa4RauGVfp7
Tree Tops Sky Dining & Bar – Elevated Romance in the Canopy
Nestled in the treetops of Anantara Lawana, Tree Tops offers private dining ‘nests’ suspended above lush foliage and twinkling lights. With just a handful of tables, exclusivity is guaranteed for an anniversary night or a special surprise at what is rated as the most romantic restaurant in Koh Samui. The European-Asian fusion menu features dishes like Wagyu beef, seared scallops, and tropical fruit sorbet, all served with panoramic views of the Gulf. With shorter opening hours from 6 PM to 11 PM (last order at 10.30 PM), a personal butler discreetly tends to your every need, replicating the exclusive feeling of being the only couple on the island.
Price Scale: $$$
Getting there: If you are staying at The Lamai Samui, it takes 21 minutes by car to get to Tree Tops Signature Dining, located on the eastern coast of the island.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/WEz6MmxNRrwRqDrf7
Dining on the Rocks – Clifftop Intimacy with a Conscious Heart
Located at Six Senses Samui, Dining on the Rocks is famed for its eco-conscious philosophy and artistic approach to cuisine. With a multi-course tasting menu that changes seasonally, the experience unfolds over terraced platforms built into a dramatic cliffside. As organic vegetables, local seafood, and globally inspired dishes are being savoured, you will be surrounded by 270-degree views of the sea. Visit this award-winning restaurant that opens from 6 PM to 10.30 PM (last order at 10 PM) for sustainable gastronomy and visual splendour, and get ready for a slow, soulful evening in a private skybox overlooking the ocean.
Price Scale: $$$
Getting there: If you are staying at The Lamai Samui, it takes 37 minutes by car to get to the Dining in the Rocks restaurant located on the northern coast of the island.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/unbQ7Mj6H4KHkds88
Saffron at Banyan Tree Samui – Refined Thai Cuisine with a View
Elegant, elevated, and distinctly Thai, Saffron is the signature restaurant at Banyan Tree and a celebration of local flavours. Located on a hilltop with sweeping views of Lamai Bay, this restaurant marries tradition and luxury in every dish. Open from 6 PM to 11 PM (last order at 10.30 PM) daily, be sure to expect royal-style Thai recipes served with a modern twist. On top of the lobster green curry and tamarind-glazed duck on the menu, this place offers private tables on the deck that are illuminated by lanterns and starlight, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance.
Price Scale: $$$
Getting there: If you are staying at The Lamai Samui, it takes 7 minutes by car to get to the Saffron restaurant located on the eastern coast of the island.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/SVNPtvkUogDFLk7w8
These venues showcase why Koh Samui is one of Southeast Asia’s most sought-after destinations for romance. Whether dining over water, in the trees, or on a serene stretch of beach, each experience offers its own blend of magic and memory-making.
Conclusion
Koh Samui stands as a beacon for travellers seeking a harmonious blend of luxury and authentic culinary experiences. From dining in exquisite restaurants with panoramic views to engaging in hands-on cooking classes and exploring vibrant night markets, the island offers a diverse gastronomic landscape. Situated in a prime location, The Lamai Samui serves as an ideal gateway to these culinary adventures, ensuring that every meal becomes a cherished memory in this tropical paradise.
To book your next stay, you may contact us via the following:
Telephone: +66 77 960 888
Whatsapp: +66 62 381 9624
Email: sales@thelamaisamui.com
Website: thelamaisamui.com
