“Where to eat in Samui?” is an essential question that determines the travel itinerary of any foodie traveller. Even if your travel plans don’t always revolve around food, it’s still a question that will pop up from time to time. And when it does, you’ll need a trusty list you can turn to. We’ve created one for your reference:

1. Orgasmic

Orgasmic is a dining venue that delivers on all counts: this beachfront resto looks out to Bophut Bay, offers a selection of unique Mediterranean and fusion creations (red tuna tartar or duck carpaccio with hazelnut oil, anyone?) and impeccable service. It’s stylish, sleek and sexy, and is a place any vacationer should place on their must-go list. Just be sure to call in to make a reservation!

Location: Orgasmic, 147/24, Moo1, Bophut, p. +66 98 724 1703. Open 3pm-11pm daily.

2. Shambala Restaurant

Shambala enjoys a great location; it’s set a short distance away from the east of the entrance to the Big Buddha. Tuck into a variety of Thai and Western fare dished out by the venue’s friendly, smiley staff while you soak in the cosy, relaxed vibes.

Location: Shambala Restaurant, 23/2 Moo 4, Bophut, p. +66 82 216 7014. 

3. H Bistro

Savour the best of French Mediterranean fare at the charming H Bistro. You’ll also find Thai fare on the menu, and vegetarians will be happy to know that the chef will readily whip up original creations to cater to different dietary preferences – but the Mediterranean items are the star of the show, with an extensive wine list curated to suit these flavours.

A meal here doesn’t come cheap – but neither are the modern setting, excellent service and prime beachfront location. A worthwhile splurge for the experience!

Location: H Bistro, 101/28 Moo1, Bophut, p. +66 77 245 511. Open daily at 6:30am-10:30am, 11:30am-3pm and 6pm-11pm.

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4. Mr Coppi’s Beach Kitchen

Mr Coppi’s Beach Kitchen is just as its name suggests; this casual, fuss-free setup is assembled by ‘Mr Coppi’ every morning along the white sand shores of Choeng Mon beach. But don’t let the unassuming appearance of the store fool you; Mr Coppi is a favourite among regular beach-goers, and draws a crowd with offerings like grilled corn on the corb and aromatic sticky rice.

Location: Choeng Mon Beach. Open from 11am daily. 

5. Fino Bistro

Enjoying a slow, leisurely brunch at Fino Bistro is a must. The selection of Western and Thai buffet options are sumptuous (we love the roast potatoes, parma ham and cheese selection!), and the pool views, live jazz music and friendly service adds on to the dining experience.

Location: Fino Bistro, 88/18 Moo 5, Choeng Mon, p. +66 77 243 888. Open 6:30am-10:30pm daily. 

6. Akbar Indian and Thai Restaurant

Say goodbye to unappetising, watered-down versions of Indian curries and dishes! Here at Akbar, you’ll find only the tastiest plates boasting authentic flavours.

With affordable prices and large portions, dining at Akbar’s is a meal that brings bang for your buck. We recommend arriving with an empty stomach to savour generous servings of the lamb rogan josh, buttery garlic naan, curries and spicy samosas.

Location: Akbar Indian and Thai Restaurant, Choeng Mon Beach Road, p. +66 84 304 2665. Open 11am-11pm daily. 

7. The Larder

The Larder oozes cosiness and elegance with its wood-dominated interiors and contemporary design elements. The food is Euro-gourmet, with choices like Loins Den, a lamb tenderloin that’s seared just right and served alongside a black pudding croquette and Ducky Fuzz, featuring duck breast, liver páté, red onion and balsamic jam and French bread.

You’ll find interesting options on the dessert and cocktail menus – we like the sound of concoctions like the ‘Old Fashioned Swine’ and ‘Peanut Butter Martini’ – so make sure to leave some stomach space for these unique creations.

Location: The Larder, 9/144 Moo 2, Chaweng, p. +66 77 601 259. Open 12pm-11pm, Mondays-Saturdays. 

8. Coast Beach Club & Bistro

There are many things to love about this stylish beachfront venue – from its stylish, Bohemian setting and bright pops of colours, to the wide variety of food options and laidback atmosphere. With live jazz music playing in the background and relaxed vibes, this venue is one that draws families and couples looking to spend a leisurely day dining by the beach.

Location: Coast Beach Club & Bistro, Centara Grand Beach Resort Samui, 38/2 Moo 3 Chaweng Beach, +66 77 230 500. Open 12pm-11pm daily.

9. The Page

It’s not just about the food – a meal at The Page is an experience that comes complete with a well-appointed setting, sea vistas and impeccable service.

The menu lists both Thai and international fare, but we’d suggest zooming in for the scrumptious Thai selection. It features over 40 dishes crafted out of recipes that are rarely experienced out of the royal palace these days. Savour the full range of flavours with the ‘Thai Tasting Set’, an eight course meal that’s carefully designed to offer a combination of dishes that complement well with each other.

Location: The Page, 14/1 Moo.2, Chaweng, p. +66 77 422 767.  

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10. Takho Seafood Bang Po

While many restaurants have made their way into ‘must-eat’ lists, Takho Seafood is a place that truly deserves its reputation. This feet-in-the-sand venue is often packed with locals – a sure sign of the authenticity of its dishes.

Adventurous diners will appreciate sampling intriguing plates served out from the kitchen, like the wasp larvae with coconut milk or horse crab egg salad. But if all you’re looking for are the usual suspects – like tasty Thai fare bursting with flavours – you won’t be disappointed dining here either.

Location: Takho Seafood Bang Po, 56/4 Moo 6, Maenam, p. +66 77 420 010.

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See our villas in Samui. Inspected and selected by Villa-Finder.com