A Foodie’s Guide to Koh Tao Restaurants.

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If you read this blog, you know one of my go-to places in Thailand is the island of Koh Tao in the Gulf. The reasons are simple: good food and good diving. While it is a somewhat small island, there is no shortage of great Koh Tao restaurants. It ain’t Bali but there are plenty of healthy choices alongside some fancier eateries as well as authentic local Thai food. 

If you are staying on the island for a longer time I recommend you sign up for the Koh Tao Foodies group on Facebook. Most restaurants in Koh Tao will announce their specials there and you can also buy a lot of cheap, local produce.  

The best Cafes & restaurants in Koh Tao

Koh Tao isn’t a big island but getting around without a scooter can be a bit tricky. I recommend you stick to one area and eat your way around the island step by step. 

Alternatively, many eateries in Koh Tao do offer delivery service for free (don’t forget to tip!), perfect if you are not in the vicinity of the place you want to try. 

Read more about Koh Tao:

The Ultimate Koh Tao Travel Guide

How to get from Bangkok to Koh Tao

Scuba Diving in Koh Tao

Best Pizza in Koh Tao

French Market

French Market in Mae Head is a bit of an expat institution on Koh Tao. Expats who miss and can afford expensive French wine that is. But seriously, this place is awesome if you want to treat yourself and feast on cheese, charcuterie, and yes, wine. 

They also have some great sandwiches, raclette, and fondue as well as the best pizza in Koh Tao. Check their specials on Facebook to get a great lunch bargain.

In addition, they also sell some very nice pastries including the most incredible matcha cookies. If you come later in the afternoon, it is buy one get one free.  

ChuChu

ChuChu fits right into the middle of pizzas and Thai food in Koh Tao as they most famous for their Thai pizzas. Curry and pizza is a combination that sounds weird at best but OMG – the pizzas are amazing!

You can choose between Penang, Green curry, Massaman & Pad Thai flavor (don’t worry the pizza does not have noodles!) and pick veggies or chicken on your pizza which yes, also comes with cheese. 

In addition, the service is incredibly friendly and they have the cheapest G&Ts in Koh Tao. Come early or expect some wait as they have gotten so popular over time. 

La Pizzeria

If you are more in the mood for a more traditional pizza head to La Pizzeria, Koh Tao. They moved into a swanky new location a couple of years ago on the busiest corner of Sairee. Unfortunately, it shows in their increased prices. Personally and money aside, I preferred their old backyard setting but it is what it is.

The pasta is still pretty good as is the wine by the glass and if you don’t feel like heading to French Market, I consider this the best pizza in Koh Tao. 

Portobello

Just down the road from La Pizzeria is Portobello. The island version of your classic Italian at home, only here with shirtless English boys who deem it okay to bring their own drinks to a restaurant. 

I digress… Portobello has lovely service and makes a really good pizza. In addition, they have decently priced house wine always a plus in my books. 

Make sure to get there early or dare I say, make a reservation as they are always busy these days. 

Thai & Asian Cuisine

Blue Chair

Blue Chair moved to the main road almost opposite 7-Eleven. It has always been the go-to place for inexpensive good Thai food but it seems the secret is out. 

Their absolute highlight is the Massaman curry and chances are if you come after 7 pm, they will have run out already. Don’t worry the Penang is another solid option. That said, I had to return for the Massaman and this time I came for lunch. While it is not as creamy as other versions I have had the broth is incredibly flavorful. It comes with huge chunks of potatoes and melt-in-your-mouth onions. The piece de resistance is the juiciest chicken that is so tender and flaky you can eat it with a spoon. Worth the hype, even more so for 80 baht! 

Asia Mood

Asia Mood offers excellent Japanese and Korean food. While they don’t offer sushi at the moment (I guess due to a lack of customers on this side of the island), their agadashi tofu and various noodle and rice bowls are still worth a trip. 

They have the loveliest service on the island, old Singer sewing machines turned into tables and often a stray cat or two. Overall, still one of my favorite places to eat in Koh Tao!

995 Roasted Duck

If you want to eat a bit away from the hustle of Sairee, I recommend a trip to 995 Roasted Duck, a big eatery just up the road from the now-closed Sairee Beach 7 Eleven (yes, that is a real landmark). Get a big portion of – what else? – roasted, but succulent duck over rice or noodles. Cheap, easy, and so very yummy. 

While they have other dishes too, the duck is definitely the highlight, and even people who usually don’t like duck swear on this dish!

Gemini

For some odd reason, I was thinking of dumplings the other day and my thoughts wouldn’t stop so I had to google: best dumplings Koh Tao. Up came Gemini and I was out of the door. After my first meal, I complained to my Tao friend why she hadn’t told me about them earlier because apparently they are well known and I couldn’t believe I almost missed it.

They make all their wontons, dumplings, and noodles themselves and are still somehow incredibly inexpensive. A plate will cost you 120-140 THB and you may have to order 2 just because they are so damn yummy. Try the spicy & numbing wontons and the dan dan noodles and thank me later! And best of all – they have a place in Sairee and in Mae Head.

Neko ramen japanese food

I feel a bit bad but I had no idea for a long time what the Neko ramen japanese food was really called as I found it as such on Google Maps when I was staying at Shiva Lodge looking for a place to eat. It is on the main road somewhere between Mae Haad and Chalok and had rave reviews. 

It is run by a lovely local family who loves cats. Why do I know that? The interior says it all! 

On the menu various ramen and Japenese curries, Okonomiyaki, tempuras, and some Thai dishes. They don’t have sushi as such but a rice bowl and a salad with tuna. I had the latter which was a bit too soy-saucey but the tuna was lovely and fresh, and the aubergine temperura was a delight. I would come back in a heartbeat if only to take more cat memorabilia pictures!  

Cattago!

Cattago! is somewhat new on the Sairee strip and clad in orange so you can’t really miss it, except at least during the day it is not very vibey, to say the least. But I love their concept: local Koh Tao fish is on the menu served in a variety of ways. You can make your own bowl/salad or choose one of their many yummy options.

My favorite: Pad Krapao fish! I added a fried egg on top and it was really good plus I simply love the concept and think this is the future of how we should consume meat and fish: local only. 

Btw – they seem to be sponsored or working with Aperol (which may explain the color concept) so if you are keen for an Aperol Spritz, this is your place. 

Lazy Coconut

I will include Lazy Coconut as an okay option if you want to eat good Thai food in Koh Tao. They are a new-ish restaurant and just moved to the other side of the big 7-Eleven.

They have Thai favorites and classics as well as some burgers and sandwiches. While the food was good, I think they are still finding their feet when it comes to service. Fries served long before my sandwich, food served long before my drink – you get the gist. Still, prices are decent and they give you a discount voucher for breakfast after your meal. I think they are worth a shot if you are in the area and crave a decent Thai meal. 

Cafes in Koh Tao & Healthy Options

Big Tree Cafe

I didn’t quite believe anyone who raved about the Big Tree Cafe, calling it the best cafe in Koh Tao. But after staying at their boutique hotel and having a few meals there myself, I am convinced – this place is worth all the hype! 

The interior is jungle meets fleamarket and the meal options are both healthy and satisfying at the same time. They also offer a great selection of juices and smoothies, and their cakes are the best I have had on the island. 

That said, the prices are quite steep. While the quality is very good I’d expected them to come with a beach view at those rates. Fortunately, you get a 10% discount if you stay there. 

Mingle Bagel

Even as someone who lived in New York for many years, I have never understood the bagel hype. But when you read reviews such as ‘the bagels are as good as they are in NYC’, you are tempted to check it out. That was the case with newly opened Mingle Bagel. 

That said, secretly I went for the equally hyped and rather inexpensive matcha. The spot is lovely and the staff is great, and there is ample seating alas no AC. On the menu various sweet and savory bagels or a make your own variety. 

I went for a sesame bagel with scrambled eggs, tomato and avo, and asked them to add some chicken. The bagel was really nice (at least in my limited experience) though hard to eat as they definitely don’t skimp on toppings. That said, it needed some sauce or such to tie it all together but if you prefer simple, clean ingredients this will be your vibe. 

My iced matcha latte wasn’t strong enough but I went back for an iced matcha natural and that one was great. Also, hard to find and for 100 baht really a steal. 

Summer Cafe

My friend recommended Summer Cafe and I was so glad I followed her advice. If you are staying on Sairee Beach it is a bit out of the way, but walkable. It is part of a hostel with the same name and has the same owners as Gemini. I knew I was in for a treat. 

It is a bright and colorful little cafe, airy and perfect to work for a couple of hours. On the menu are some indulgent and some healthy breakfast, brunch, and lunch options at really good prices. I tried the eggs Benedict with pulled pork and they were amazing, and also cooked perfectly to my liking. 

They also have some homemade kombucha and my friend swears they make the best cappuccino in Koh Tao. 

Vegetabowl

If you are looking for vegan food in Koh Tao or healthy salad options head to Vegetabowl. Whenever I feel like eating clean and fresh this is the place I go to. They have some great salad bowls, yummy deep-fried tofu, and innovative dishes like sushi burritos or seitan tacos.

Nui’s Bakery

Nui’s is my favorite cafe on Koh Tao for yummy sandwiches and my British friend swears by their weekly English muffins. They are not cheap but I dare say their bread is worth it. Luckily they have just moved into a new location across the street and now have an airconditioned indoor area as well as a small patio. 

They also have some amazing, homemade probiotic drinks similar to Kombucha. My favorite sandwich: a toasted Jalapeno Popper Panini with crispy bacon.

If you like what Nui does, check out their newly opened Foccacia Bar across the street. On the menu: plenty of their classic combinations but on a foccacia. Prices are a bit steep, but I like the overall concept and the foccacia was rather nice.  

Factory Cafe

I always felt a bit indifferent about Factory Cafe even though many declare this the best cafe in Koh Tao. This changed on my recent visit. 

They are the best place for a good clean breakfast and bowls. Sourdough, scrambled egg, butter, and a side of avo. Simple and perfectly made. They also make a really good matcha latte and a yummy novelty – bulletproof matcha. 

They have recently extended their property, but still come very early to avoid the crowds and don’t leave without trying some of their peanut butter energy balls! 

Zest

Zest seems to be an institution when it comes to Koh Tao cafes and for some good reasons. The lady who runs it is lovely and she has a few beautiful cats who will come and cuddle at some point. If you show your cat-appreciation she will be extra nice to you! They are also open from 6 am onwards, perfect if you need to get a coffee or a sandwich before diving as most other cafes only open at 9 am. 

And last but not least: her prices are incredible. While Zest isn’t very fancy or stylish the sandwiches are great and inexpensive compared to other cafes in Koh Tao. 

New Heaven

New Heaven is one of those cafes in Koh Tao that flies a bit under the radar which makes it a perfect choice if you want some peace and quiet while you work. It is never too busy so you won’t feel bad hogging a table for a few hours. By the way – they are in Sairee next to Big Blue Diving and not at New Heaven dive center in Chalok!

The food, to be honest, is okay only, and I wouldn’t order the cake again. However, they do make a great and inexpensive lunch special every day. Check the Koh Tao Foodie group on Facebook to pre-order for the next day. Then you can either get it to go or dine in. 

Also, order a lychee soda – they are delicious!

Kuru Kuru

Kuru Kuru has taken over the premises of the former Nimman, and I am not sure how I feel about it yet. It calls itself a cafe, resto bar, and concept store, but neither concept is really clear.

What they have done is put up a lot of potted plants outside, creating a little terrace area and sheltering you from the horrible parking lot view. Inside feels a little less sleek now, but there is a lot cozy seating. 

The menu is interesting, for lack of a better word. While Nimman was strictly Mediterranean with a few tacos thrown in to the mix, Kuru Kuru is a bit of everything. Asian noodles, Thai classics, all-day breakfast, and a Greek salad with chicken skewers and rice. I ate there twice (including the Greek salad), and the food was good, but lacked a clear focus. 

That said, I had their Ginger Butter Sour, which was a great cocktail, as well as a really good pure iced matcha. If you don’t know what you are in the mood for, or you are in the mood for a bit of everything, check it out!

Dough

Dough, new to Chalok, has already claimed a bit of internet fame. They are, as you can guess by the name, known for their breads and pastries. 

I liked the vibe thanks to some oversized stuffed croissants and cute knick-knacks to buy as souvenirs, and the place is huge – perfect if you are with a bigger group. We didn’t sit down, but I just had a matcha and a pretzel. The German in me was missing some salt, but it was very soft and chewy, and while I wouldn’t come to Chalok just to eat a pretzel, it was a good one. 

Restaurants on Sairee Beach

If you don’t mind paying a bit extra, head to these places for a beach front seat on Sairee Beach.

Cafe Culture

Last year, I found myself eating at Cafe Culture quite frequently thus I thought they deserve an honorary mention for their Caesar’s Salad with crispy chicken. It is probably not the healthiest salad but super yummy and makes for a perfect hangover dish. 

My friend also swears by their toasted paninis and as far as Sairee Beach, Koh Tao locations go they are spot on – you eat with your feet in the sand if you want to. Otherwise, they have just extended their indoor dining area to make enough space for a hangover party crowd on Saturdays.

Sandbar

Sandbar is still a somewhat new-ish addition to the Koh Tao beach restaurant scene and has brought new life to a former dingy club. The location is as good as it gets: beach setting by the rocks where you can eat with your feet in the sand or on the cute terrace. It feels maritime without being cheesy.

On the menu an international array of grill platters, salads, burgers, and some more interesting starters/tapas like roasted cauliflower with miso. And as it goes with such a location there is a huge array of cocktails and wines available for sunset. 

Since they have opened, they have moved on from breakfast till late and now just open at 4 pm just in time for sundowners. The food is nothing to write home about in my opinion, but I have been a been a few times for cocktails and always liked the vibe. They make a great negroni, the staff is fast and friendly, and they not only have a happy hour but a second happy hour from 10 pm to 11 pm. 

Blue Water

Blue Water used my local watering hole aka restaurant in Koh Tao I spent most of my day at a couple of years ago. Unfortunately, the owner passed away and since it got a new owner it is not the same anymore.

I do still love their beach set up and the staff is incredible. The menu has also changed and sadly, a few of my old favorites are gone. But both, the international and Thai dishes are pretty good and worth the premium you pay for the excellent beach setting.

I recently went back and tried their fish pad krapao that was not as good as Cattago! but decent, and had both a hot and an iced matcha latte that were pretty decent. They also have a new counter for speciality cookies that looked really yummy.

Koh Tao Restaurants for a date Night

Looking for a cozy spot for a date night in Koh Tao? Check out these options:

Whitening

The most romantic restaurant in Koh Tao is right on Sairee beach. Whitening is well known as the spot for a nice meal on the beach or a date night. The gleaming white, beachy interior has Ibiza vibes minus the DJs. 

The menu is quite international and on the pricey side, but definitely worth it if you want to splurge. Otherwise, come for happy hour, lay back on one of their oversized white daybeds, and enjoy the sunset. 

Need a romantic Koh Tao restaurant for a special occasion? Here are some favorites…

Barracuda

Barracuda is a favorite Koh Tao restaurant if you are looking for a romantic spot for a date night or somewhere to take your parents. The restaurant at the end of Sairee Beach has stunning rooftop views and a menu that will appease all palates. Seafood platters, tapas, and a decent selection of vegan dishes are on offer. In addition, they make great cocktails and frequently have special tapas & happy hour nights when you can get a good deal.

Barracuda just opened a second location, Barracuda at Darawan Roof Terrace. I have not been yet but the setting looks beautiful so I recommend you check it out if you are looking for that extra romantic Koh Tao restaurant. 

Gallery

Fancy a fancy night out? Gallery is your place to be! They have recently moved up the hill next to Monsoon gym so you might need to organize transfer or put on your walking shoes. But once you are there, culinary delights await as Gallery offers Thai cuisine with a twist. You should definitely go for their signature curry served in a whole coconut and a few pineapple basil martinis!

If you want to experience the full extent of the best restaurant in Koh Tao book for one of their Chef’s Table nights when they offer an innovative multi-course menu. 

The Garden

The Garden is the latest addition to the fine dining restaurants in Koh Tao. To be honest, I think they will need to adjust their prices a bit because unlike the others they cannot offer a great view with your meal – you sit right by the main road in Mae Head. 

If that doesn’t deter you, you will be in for a treat however: the menu is international and while burgers, etc. are a staple you can also find little plates of yumminess like crab tortellini and trevally carpaccio. 

The best bars in Koh Tao 

While I am usually not one for bar-hopping anymore I did enjoy a few nights out upon my most recent visit – I guess two years of no bars will do that to you. 

Koh Tao nightlife was once renowned and while not as famous as the full moon parties on neighboring Koh Phangan there was always a beach party, a fire show, or a pub crawl on offer. 

The island is still quiet now compared to its heydays but there are some good options again if you are looking for some company and a few drinks. Most bars also offer live music and have found creative options to extend the current 11 pm curfew. 

The Little Bar Koh Tao – My new little pop-up bar right on Sairee Beach – a small trailer, a few tables and chairs, and direct beach views. Oh and have I mentioned the great, inexpensive drinks?!

The Local – It’s not the new kid on the block on Walking Street anymore but still a favorite hangout for many dive professionals on the island. The setting is simple but has a cool beer garden vibe with a little stage, enough place for dancing, and even a small BBQ area for hotdogs and burger nights. Also, everyday happy hour with 50 baht mojitos!

Fishbowl – Fishbowl is part of Ban’s Diving and another favorite amongst divers. It is nothing special but still beloved especially if you are part of the 20-something crowd. Come between 6 pm and 10 pm for great happy hour prices and a bucket of something if that is your thing. 

Leo Bar – Leo Bar right next to Fishbowl is usually the last stop on the somewhat limited bar circuit in Koh Tao at the moment. You need to be a little tipsy to enjoy it because while it has direct beach access, Leo resembles a somewhat dingy smokey club – in all the good and bad ways possible.

Maya – Sunsets, hippie vibes – welcome to Maya! For a proper sundowner setting head to Maya Beach Bar. They are right on Sairee beach and if you want Boho Tulum vibes, this is the closest you will get in Koh Tao. 

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