Enjoying the lively island of Ko Phangan in Thailand can be hungry work—luckily there are many great restaurants to satisfy your appetite.
The island of Ko Phangan is located in the Thai Gulf off the coast of Surat Thani, famous for its hedonistic full moon parties, stunning beaches and abundance of tourist activities. With so much to see and do, you’re going to need to keep your energy levels up—check out these 10 terrific restaurants for a top feed in Ko Phangan.
One of Ko Phangan’s top restaurants for fresh seafood, you’ll find the cosy Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar on a beautiful beachfront in Ban Tai. The family-run restaurant features quirky seating fashioned from old sailing vessels, giving it a relaxed, nautical ambience. Emphasis is placed on freshly caught ingredients, which helps to support local fishing communities. Dishes follow traditional Thai recipes with modern twists, including crab curry, garlic and pepper squid, and king prawns with a spicy sauce. Sink your teeth into snapper, mackerel, barracuda, and other ocean delights. The attached beach bar is a pleasant spot to unwind with a sundowner.
Valentino is an upscale fine-dining restaurant and wine bar in the northeast of the island. A fabulous place for couples to indulge in a romantic meal, the service is faultless, prices are reasonable and the food is delicious. Sit upstairs to escape the hustle and bustle of the streets outside, or dine al fresco on the leafy terrace. Tuck into delicious mains like homemade pasta, grilled salmon with pepper and asparagus, and pan-fried New Zealand lamb.
It’s tough to beat the Mason’s Arms when it comes to hearty comfort food and the warmest of welcomes. The charming pub looks like it could have been lifted straight from the English countryside, with a sunny beer garden, polished beer taps, sturdy dark wood furnishings, and bar stools topped with red leather. Sink your teeth into pub grub like lasagna with garlic bread, stew and steak, and ale pie. Of course, fish and chips is on the menu too! Head here on Sundays for a traditional English roast dinner with all the trimmings.
Capana is an entirely vegan eatery close to the pier and Phantip Market. The healthy meat-free dishes are tasty enough to tempt even the most hardened carnivores, with some gluten-free options on the menu too. Everything is made to order using the freshest ingredients and organic produce where possible. They do particularly good breakfasts so enjoy a bowl of their homemade granola, scrambled tofu, or a fruit-topped waffle, all washed down with a thick fruit smoothie.
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Located right on Thong Sala Beach, feel the sand beneath your feet and enjoy the sounds of the ocean while you dine at Beachlounge. The French head chef and Thai kitchen team prepare a good mixture of Thai favourites, seafood specialities and Western dishes. Start with fried calamari or chicken satay before moving onto mains like sour and spicy tom yam soup, duck breast with honey and Thai curries in every colour. Visit in the evening to sip a cocktail as the sun dips below the horizon.
The popular restaurant at SilverMoon Beach & Jungle Resort offers a casual dining experience near the beach. Well away from the craziness of Had Rin (where the Full Moon Parties take place), this establishment offers an oasis of calm and an extensive menu with something to satisfy most tastes. Enjoy Thai dishes like som tam and stir-fried chicken and don’t miss the sweet homemade desserts. The resort hosts weekly foodie events that are great value, including a Wednesday Thai dinner and Sunday meat and seafood barbeque.
For a cheap and cheerful Thai meal, look no further than Auntie’s Restaurant. The décor and seating are simple, but the friendly owner warmly welcomes guests with a famous Thai smile. The local dishes are some of the most authentic on the island, including a smooth and spicy Thai green curry and creamy massaman curry (if you’re not in the mood for super spicy food). Other dishes include pad thai, the spicy and sour coconut soup of tom kha gai and red snapper. This place is particularly great for families.
Specialising in Portuguese cuisine, Bite Delight serves dishes that are meant to be shared. A great place for couples and groups of friends, why limit yourself to just one tasty dish when you can sample cold meats, cheeses, freshly baked bread and prawns all in one go? The restaurant’s sophisticated interiors feature interesting artwork and bold pops of colour, with decorative rugs, quirky ornaments and vibrant lanterns adding to the visual appeal. Candles and fresh-cut flowers enhance the romantic air.
Swap the beaches for the hills and head to Secret Mountain for incredible vistas as you dine. Admire panoramic views across the island towards the crystal blue sea, listening to the melodic birdsong from the jungle. There are also two swimming pools where you can sunbathe, swim, and relax while you eat—it’s easy to spend an entire afternoon chilling out here. Recharge with typical Thai meals like fried rice, omelet, and chicken with cashew nuts.
A short walk from Laem Son Beach and Sweet Water Lake, Canadian-owned Crave is a great spot for Western tourists hankering for a taste of home. Relish a gourmet chicken, beef,or veggie burger, or try one of the freshly made wraps, all served with homemade creamy mayonnaise and thick-cut chips. You’ll even find Canadian poutine on the menu! Vegetarians won’t be disappointed, with offerings like veggie kebab, tasty hummus and vegan ice cream. Enjoy a game of pool as you wait for your meal, soak up the views from the soft seats along the balcony, or simply chill and soak up the vibe.
