The Best Restaurants In Koh Tao
Koh Tao a small tropical island in the Gulf of Thailand, is world-renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and epic scuba diving. But beyond the beach and the bubbles, this island paradise is also home to a surprisingly diverse and delicious food scene.
Whether you’re a backpacker on a tight budget, a couple seeking a romantic dinner with a sea view, or a foodie on a mission, Koh Tao has something for everyone. From Thai street food and vegan-friendly cafes to fine dining and fresh seafood, this guide breaks down the best restaurants in Koh Tao by budget and food type.
Why Koh Tao Is a Food Lover’s Paradise
Although Koh Tao is smaller than its neighbouring islands, its culinary options are rich, varied, and full of flavour. Many of the restaurants in koh tao are owned and run by passionate locals or long-term expats, meaning menus often reflect a blend of traditional Thai recipes and international favourites. With fresh seafood, tropical fruit, and a growing eco-conscious food scene,
it’s easy to eat well on this island, no matter your budget.
Best Low-Budget Restaurants in Koh Tao
Perfect for backpackers, divers, and anyone looking to eat well without spending a lot, these are the top cheap restaurants in Koh Tao.
1. Yang Restaurant 📍 Mae Haad
Yang Restaurant in koh tao is a local gem, offering a wide rage of Thai food and some western dishes as well (Try the home made fries!). While service can be slow, portions are very generous, and everything is made fresh to order. So, it is definitely worth the wait. Meals start from just 60 THB.
Best for: Cheap Thai food, BIG portions.
Must-try: Garlic Pepper Chicken, Schnitzel & Fries, Green Curry soup.
2. Duck 995📍 Sairee Village
This small, unassuming eatery has built a reputation as the best place for duck noodles on the island. It’s quick, flavourful, and satisfying. Expect to wait for a table here due to its popularity with locals and tourists alike. A hearty bowl of duck noodle soup costs around 80–100 THB.
Best for: Quick lunches, meat lovers
Must-try: Duck noodle soup
3. Zest Café📍 Mae Haad
A favourite among divers and digital nomads when it comes to restaurants in Koh Tao, Zest is great for breakfast and lunch. Opening at 6am, it’s perfect for breakfast before morning boats depart. Enjoy smoothies, sandwiches, and delicious coffee, all reasonably priced. They also have free WiFi and a laid-back vibe.
Best for: Budget breakfast, smoothies
Must-try: English Breakfast, Very Berry smoothie
Best Mid-Range Restaurants in Koh Tao
If you’re willing to spend a bit more, these mid-range options offer an excellent balance of quality, ambiance, and value.
4. Barracuda Rooftop & Wine Bar📍 Sairee Beach
Barracuda restaurant in Koh Tao is one of the most iconic dining spots, offering ocean views and an eclectic fusion menu. The focus is on seafood and tapas, and it’s ideal for sunset dinners. They also have a fantastic selections of cocktails, wines & spirits.
Best for: Sunset views, fresh seafood
Must-try: Tuna ceviche, Barracuda fillet
5. Big Tree📍 Chalok Baan Kao
Names for the ‘Big Tree’ that it is built around, the place has a great ambience about it! Big Tree is a family run restaurant, it has a great breakfast & lunch menu using delicious fresh ingredients, along with daily Thai food specials. They have great wifi and speciality Teas.
Best for: Lazy afternoons, Digital nomads.
Must-try: Open Sandwhiches, homemade carrot cake.
6. Breeze Koh Tao📍 Mae Haad Beach
Located right on the sand, Breeze offers chic, beachfront dining with a focus on seasonal ingredients and a Mediterranean-Asian fusion menu. Expect attentive service and stunning views.
Best for: Date nights, special occasions
Must-try: Snapper fillet, Laab Lamb.
Best High-End Restaurants in Koh Tao
Looking to celebrate a special occasion or indulge in fine dining? These upscale restaurants in Koh Tao are worth the splurge.
7. The Gallery📍 Sairee Hilltop
One of Koh Tao’s most unique dining experiences, The Gallery doubles as an art gallery and fine dining restaurant. They specialize in Thai cuisine with a twist and have a top-tier wine selection. Book ahead of time as this small restaurant fills up quickly.
Best for: Romantic dinners, wine pairings
Must-try: Slow-cooked duck curry, artichoke salad
8. The French Market📍 Mae Haad
Located on the main road between Mae Haad & Chalock, The French Market is a favourite amongst Thais and Westerners alike. With a fabulous ‘Chefs Special’s Menu, Cheese Fondue and made to order pizza there is something for everyone. A little on the pricier side its a great place for a celebration.
Best for: Cheese lovers & special occasions
Must-try: Beef bourguignon, 4 Seasons Pasta.
9. Charcoal Bay📍 Sairee Beach
Right on the beach, this restaurant is full of style! Enjoy fresh sea food, and steak by candle light whilst listening to the sound of the waves. Famous for their charcoal oven & BBQ
Best for: Romantic dinners, tapas.
Must-try: Red Tilapia, Pork & Apple Kebab
Best Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurants
Koh Tao is very vegan- and vegetarian-friendly. Here are the best plant-based spots on the island.
10. The Factory Cafe📍 Sairee Main Road
A trendy café with a menu that caters to vegans, vegetarians, and gluten-free diets. Think smoothie bowls, vegan burgers, and power salads, all made with locally sourced ingredients.
Best for: Vegan brunch, clean eating
Must-try: Acai bowl, vegan burrito
11. La Carotte Qui Rit📍 Mae Haad
This cozy French-run café offers 100% vegetarian and vegan food, including crepes, Thai curries, and homemade desserts. It’s a peaceful spot tucked away from the crowds.
Best for: Home-cooked vegan meals
Must-try: Vegan Penang curry, chocolate mousse
12. Vegetabowl📍 Sairee
As the name suggests, Vegetabowl specializes in healthy, plant-based bowls, wraps, and smoothies. They’re known for bright, colourful dishes that are as Instagram-worthy as they are nutritious.
Best for: Health-conscious diners
Must-try: Buddha bowl, falafel wrap
Special Mentions!
13. Babaloo Vegan Kitchen 📍 Chalock Hill top
Delicious Thai food made with fresh local ingredients, all dishes have a vege and or vegan option. Full of flavour and spice!
Best for: Vegan Thai Dishes at budget friendly prices.
Must-try: Nam Tok, Pad Kra Pao
14. Jumbo Restaurant 📍 Sairee
The clue is in the name! This is one of the restaurants in koh tao with a big on flavour & portion size. Serving a range of western dishes like sizzling Fajitas, Steak Pie and Chicken Cordon Bleu. They are most famous for their Sunday Roast dinners! Book ahead to guarantee your seat!
Best for: Big Hearty Meals on a medium budget.
Must-try: Roasted Pork Belly, Date Cake with Caramel sauce.
15. Thaita Italian Restaurant📍Sairee
A small, romantic Italian eatery with handmade pasta, delicious sauces, and Italian wines. Run by an Italian couple, it’s one of the most authentic Italian restaurants in Koh Tao.
Best for: Italian food, homemade pasta
Must-try: Tagliatelle with truffle cream
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a backpacker on a shoestring or a gourmet traveller with high standards, Koh Tao’s restaurant scene is a flavourful adventure waiting to happen. Restaurants in Koh Tao go from beachside BBQs to cliffside fine dining, authentic Thai flavours to international comfort food, this island has something for every taste and every budget.
So next time you find yourself looking at all the restaurants in Koh Tao, between your dives, hikes, and beach days, treat your taste buds to some of the best dining experiences Thailand has to offer.
