There are many fantastic restaurants in Koh Tao that you need to try while visiting the island. From plant-based goodness to tasty local Thai dishes, you’re sure to find something to tickle your tastebuds.
After spending a month on this island, I discovered many incredible places to eat, and a few of them I would return to constantly, making them my new daily eatery.
I was thoroughly impressed with the huge range of options on the island. Though this island is one of the smallest in Thailand, there is an insane range of restaurants. Moreover, you will get the chance to explore some of the best plant-based eateries, Italian restaurants, local Thai cuisine and burger joints!
Be sure to check out at least a few of the restaurants mentioned below; You won’t be disappointed!
Insider Tip
Since there is a huge range of restaurants in Koh Tao, you might not want to dine out for every meal. So, you have the option to order in and receive delivery!
If you would like to get brekkie, lunch or dinner delivered, I recommend joining the Facebook group ‘Koh Tao Foodies’. In this group, you will see a bunch of local restaurants posting their new dish releases, deals, and specials.
Have a scroll through the page and then get into contact with the person who has put the post up, or the restaurant directly to place an order. Finally, this is the best way to get food delivered in Koh Tao!
The Best Restaurants in Koh Tao
- Vegetabowl Cafe
This is hands down the ultimate brunch or lunch location. Vegetabowl offers a range of nourishing plant-based salad bowls that will set you up for a busy day on the island.
From falafel bowls to Mexican bowls, there are plenty of options on the menu to pick exactly what you’re feeling. I would always get the Zen bowl; The citrus lime and peanut sauce dressing is to die for!
Finally, you can pack your stomach full of goodness, with meals ranging from 140 THB to 180 THB.
- Kanya Kitchen
Now Kanya Kitchen is a little off the main drag, but it is an absolute go-to! If you happen to be staying at Taco Shack Hostel or Summer Hostel, you will be nearby this little gem. Otherwise, wander up the street to Kanya Kitchen and you won’t be disappointed!
Kanya is a local who cooks out of her tiny outdoor kitchen. And, to say that she whips up an absolute feast is an understatement! There are a number of insanely good Thai dishes on the small chalkboard menu, and the prices are super cheap!
She offers plenty of vegetarian options, and I highly recommend her Massaman Curry. Not to mention, she will happily do takeaway in case you want to eat elsewhere!
Read more: The Best Food in Thailand: 15 Thai Dishes You Need to Try
- La Pizzeria
La Pizzeria is the ultimate place to go on Koh Tao if you are looking for an Italian feast. Their woodfired pizzas are fantastic and absolutely massive!
Moreover, this is one of the best restaurants in Koh Tao for a Western feed. I highly recommend the classic Margherita Pizza.
Pizzas range from 150 THB to 340 THB for the ultimate meat feast. Additionally, there are a range of pasta dishes, salads, starters, and main courses.
- Mama Tam’s
Mama Tam’s is one of the most well-known restaurants in Koh Tao. This tiny little shack-like kitchen on the side of the road whips up some of the best Thai dishes on the island. And, it’s clear to see that it’s a favourite with people lining up to wait for a table.
I highly recommend getting in early for dinner to avoid waiting in the queue. Moreover, the prices are extremely cheap and the food is absolutely divine! Just be prepared to wait a little while for your meal!
Tip: Try the chicken cashew dish. It’s known to be one of the most popular items on the menu.
- The Factory Cafe
The Factory Cafe is one of the best restaurants in Koh Tao and is a morning hotspot for all the brunch fanatics on the island.
Head to the Factory Cafe for an extensive menu including fresh pressed juices, smoothie bowls, brekkie wraps, and salad bowls.
Besides, there are tonnes of vegan options on the menu and they make incredible scrambled tofu!
- Blue Water Cafe
Blue Water Cafe is the ultimate dinner location, especially for a date night! Arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset to score yourself a table on the beach.
I highly recommend trying some of the tacos. I would always eat the veggie tacos and share some wedges with a friend!
The service is friendly, and there is typically always live music during the dinner period. So, be sure to stop in for an afternoon drink and dinner on the beach. Who doesn’t want to enjoy a cocktail while watching the sunset with live music?!
Read more: 12 Things to Do in Koh Tao, Thailand: An Insiders Guide
- Permpoon Ice Cream
Permpoon Ice Cream is the best location for an afternoon ice cream treat. There are loads of flavours on offer, and the prices are reasonable for a delicious scoop of ice cream.
Besides, this ice cream shop is likely on your walk home to your accommodation after a day at the beach. So, why not stop in and grab yourself a frozen treat to cool down?
Try a range of sorbet flavours, or chocolate and cookie dough, yum!
- Hippo Burger Bistro
Hippo Burger Bistro is the best spot on Koh Tao to sink your teeth into a mouth-watering burger. Burgers range from 160 THB to 320 THB with a couple of vegetarian options and plenty of meat options.
The burgers are supersized and will fill your hungry tummy to sustain you for hours! Not to mention, this is a great spot for a big feast after a busy day of exploring.
Finally, they do takeaway and delivery, making it the perfect opportunity to grab a burger and enjoy it while watching the sunset on the beach! Divine!
- Cafe Culture Coffee
Now, this is breakfast with a view! Cafe Culture is one of the best restaurants in Koh Tao as you can enjoy a lovely coffee after a morning beach walk.
Not to mention, they do incredible paninis and the best eggs on toast!
Be sure to check out the specials on the menu to snap up a great deal. Typically, they like to run afternoon specials to get more people in before dinner.
- Big Tree Cafe
Big Tree Cafe was another one of my go-to brekkie spots on Koh Tao. Firstly, the dining space was gorgeous and extremely breezy for a warm morning. And, this place is excellent for group meet-ups.
I highly recommend trying some of the freshly made bakery goods, including croissants and muffins.
Finally, the service is lovely, and there are loads of options on the menu! A lovely and relaxing spot to start the day.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, Koh Tao is packed with many incredible restaurants offering a vast array of options. You can truly fuel yourself with anything you desire on this wonderful little island.
There is still plenty of Thai culture to delve into, along with loads of fantastic Western cuisine to enjoy the comforts of home.
Be sure to try a few of these restaurants in Koh Tao when visiting the island. You might just find your new favourite restaurant or cafe!
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