Koh Samui Culinary Guide — Seafood, Thai Curries, and Local Desserts 2026
Koh Samui is a representative island of Thailand, beloved by culinary travelers for its fresh seafood, unique Thai curries, and various local desserts. In this guide, I will introduce the must-try foods and attractions in Koh Samui.
🤖 Translated automatically by AI (GPT-4o-mini). Reviewed periodically.
From a Korean traveler's perspective, departing from Seoul/ICN.
Koh Samui is a representative island of Thailand, beloved by culinary travelers for its fresh seafood, unique Thai curries, and various local desserts. In this guide, I will introduce the must-try foods and attractions in Koh Samui.
Overview
- Seafood Dishes: Various dishes made with fresh seafood
- Thai Curries: Unique curry flavors exclusive to Koh Samui
- Local Desserts: Sweet treats to enjoy locally
- Local Cafés: Cafés where you can soak in the local atmosphere
- Night Markets: Markets to experience the daily life and culture of locals
Seafood Dishes
Koh Samui is famous for its fresh seafood. In particular, dishes made with fresh fish and shellfish caught around the island are popular among both locals and tourists. Seafood restaurants offer a variety of dishes, with prices ranging from 200 to 500 baht (approximately 7,000 to 17,000 KRW). It's best to check locally.
Thai Curries
In Koh Samui, curries made with plenty of coconut milk are famous. Notably, 'Phu Phat Pong Curry' is a curry made by harmoniously mixing crab meat and coconut milk, resulting in a wonderfully smooth flavor. Prices are around 150 to 300 baht (approximately 5,000 to 10,000 KRW). It's best to check locally.
Local Desserts
One of the local desserts in Koh Samui is 'Coconut Ice Cream'. Made with fresh coconut milk, this ice cream is especially popular in the hot weather. Prices are around 50 to 100 baht (approximately 1,700 to 3,500 KRW). It's best to check locally.
Local Cafés
Koh Samui has many cafés where you can enjoy the local atmosphere. For example, 'Café Mai' is a café that preserves traditional architectural styles of Koh Samui, loved by both locals and tourists. They offer a variety of coffees and desserts, with prices ranging from 100 to 200 baht (approximately 3,500 to 7,000 KRW). It's best to check locally.
Night Markets
Koh Samui's night markets are places where you can experience the daily life and culture of locals. In particular, 'Chaweng Night Market' sells a variety of foods and souvenirs, allowing you to feel the local life up close. It's best to check locally for operating hours and available items.
Where to Stay
Koh Samui offers a variety of accommodation options. Choosing a place that fits your budget and preferences will ensure a comfortable trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What restaurants in Koh Samui are a must-visit?
Koh Samui has a variety of restaurants, but it’s best to get recommendations from locals or gather information locally.
Q. What are the food prices like in Koh Samui?
Food prices vary depending on the location and type of restaurant, but they are generally reasonable. It's best to check locally.
Q. What should I do if I have food allergies in Koh Samui?
If you have food allergies, it's often helpful to inform the restaurant in advance, as they may take precautions during preparation. It's best to check locally.