Koh Samui, Thailand’s island paradise, is a haven for seafood lovers. From high-end restaurants serving gourmet seafood delicacies to bustling street stalls offering freshly grilled catches, Koh Samui has it all. Whether you crave the finest lobsters, succulent prawns, or the freshest fish straight from the Andaman Sea, this guide will take you to the best places to indulge in the island’s seafood scene.
Best Seafood Restaurants on Koh Samui
1. The Jungle Club Restaurant
Perched high above Chaweng Beach, The Jungle Club Restaurant not only offers breathtaking panoramic views but also some of the freshest seafood on the island. Their grilled king prawns and butter-garlic lobster are must-tries, along with their signature Thai-style steamed fish.
2. The Fisherman’s Village in Bophut – Barracuda Restaurant
Located in the charming Fisherman’s Village, Barracuda Restaurant specializes in Mediterranean-Thai fusion seafood. The menu includes dishes like grilled red snapper, seared tuna, and crab risotto. Pair your meal with a glass of wine for a truly memorable dining experience.
3. Mit Samui Restaurant
If you want an authentic Thai seafood experience, Mit Samui is the place to be. Their spicy seafood soup (Tom Yum Talay), deep-fried sea bass with mango salad, and stir-fried squid with salted egg yolk are some of the best on the island.
4. Supattra Thai Dining
For a romantic seafood dining experience, Supattra Thai Dining in Bangrak is a perfect choice. Their yellow curry crab, char-grilled prawns, and baked mussels in garlic butter offer a perfect blend of flavors that showcase Thailand’s rich culinary heritage.
5. Dining on the Rocks
For a luxury seafood dining experience, Dining on the Rocks at Six Senses Samui offers exquisite dishes such as grilled Andaman lobster, pan-seared scallops, and black pepper king crab. This fine-dining restaurant is ideal for a special occasion or a romantic dinner by the sea.
Best Seafood Street Food on Koh Samui
While Koh Samui has a plethora of fine dining options, the real essence of Thai seafood is found in its street food stalls. Here are the best spots to enjoy mouthwatering local seafood at budget-friendly prices.
1. Chaweng Night Market
The Chaweng Night Market is a seafood lover’s paradise. Some of the best stalls include:
- Grilled Seafood Stand: Serving freshly grilled fish, prawns, and squid, marinated in Thai herbs.
- Oyster Bar: Fresh Thai oysters served with spicy seafood sauce, garlic, and lime.
- Lobster & Crab Corner: Offering charcoal-grilled lobster and blue crab, cooked to perfection.
2. Fisherman’s Village Walking Street
Every Friday, the Fisherman’s Village Walking Street transforms into a vibrant seafood market. Popular street food options include:
- Thai-style BBQ squid
- Spicy grilled scallops with chili sauce
- Deep-fried soft-shell crab with Thai basil
3. Lamai Night Plaza
Lamai Beach’s Night Plaza is another fantastic place to try fresh seafood. Some must-try dishes include:
- Thai-style seafood hotpot
- Garlic butter prawns
- BBQ stingray with spicy dipping sauce
4. Hua Thanon Fresh Market
For the freshest seafood at wholesale prices, visit Hua Thanon Fresh Market. Here, you can buy fresh fish, prawns, and lobsters directly from local fishermen and have them cooked at nearby stalls.
Signature Seafood Dishes You Must Try in Koh Samui
1. Grilled Red Snapper
One of the most commonly found seafood dishes in Koh Samui is grilled red snapper. It is often seasoned with Thai herbs, grilled over charcoal, and served with a tangy seafood dipping sauce.
2. Thai-Style Seafood Hotpot (Jim Jum Talay)
A popular local delicacy, this dish consists of fresh shrimp, squid, and fish cooked in a bubbling clay pot with fragrant Thai herbs and spices.
3. Spicy Seafood Salad (Yum Talay)
A refreshing dish featuring shrimp, mussels, and squid, tossed in a spicy lime dressing with fresh herbs and vegetables.
4. Crab Curry (Poo Pad Pong Karee)
A rich and creamy crab dish made with yellow curry, egg, and Thai spices—a true indulgence for seafood lovers.
5. Tom Yum Talay (Spicy Seafood Soup)
A famous Thai soup made with a mix of shrimp, fish, squid, and mussels, simmered in a spicy, tangy broth infused with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and chili.
Tips for Enjoying the Best Seafood in Koh Samui
- Go early to night markets: The best seafood sells out fast!
- Ask for today’s catch: Fresh seafood tastes better, so always ask about the latest catch of the day.
- Check for authenticity: Look for places where locals eat to experience true Thai flavors.
- Try a variety: Mix high-end restaurants with street food to get the best of both worlds.
Koh Samui’s seafood scene is diverse, rich, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re dining at a luxury restaurant or grabbing a quick bite from a street stall, there’s no shortage of incredible seafood options to explore on the island.