When you think of Thailand, chances are food comes to mind just as quickly as beaches. On the islands of Phuket and Koh Samui, food is more than just fuel — it’s a lifestyle, a tradition, and a sensory journey. With fresh seafood brought in daily, tropical fruits picked from local farms, and recipes passed down through generations, the islands offer a unique flavour of Thai cuisine you simply can’t miss.
Here’s a guide to the top island foods you must try during your visit.
1. Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup) 🍤
This world-famous soup tastes even better by the sea. Fresh prawns are simmered with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and a punch of chilli. The result is a broth that’s spicy, sour, and fragrant. On the islands, the shrimp are often caught the same morning — making the dish extra fresh.
2. Pla Pao (Salt-Grilled Fish) 🐟
Nothing says “island life” like sharing a whole grilled fish at a beachside shack. The fish is stuffed with lemongrass, coated in sea salt, and slow-cooked over charcoal. Peel back the crispy skin, drizzle it with spicy seafood sauce, and you’ll understand why it’s a local favourite.
3. Som Tum (Green Papaya Salad) 🥗
A street food staple, Som Tum balances sweet, sour, salty, and spicy all in one bite. Shredded green papaya is pounded with garlic, chilli, lime, peanuts, and fish sauce. On the islands, you’ll often find it served with fresh crab or dried shrimp for extra flavour.
4. Gaeng Som (Southern Sour Curry) 🌶️
This dish reflects southern Thailand’s bold culinary style. A fiery curry made with turmeric, tamarind, and fish, it’s not for the faint-hearted — but it’s addictive once you develop a taste for it. Expect a rich orange colour and a powerful punch of spice.
5. Massaman Curry 🍛
Influenced by Muslim traders, this curry blends Thai and Persian flavours. Tender meat, potatoes, and peanuts are slow-cooked in a fragrant coconut milk sauce. It’s milder than southern curries but deeply comforting, perfect after a day in the sun.
6. Moo Ping (Grilled Pork Skewers) 🍢
You’ll smell Moo Ping before you see it — smoky skewers being grilled on almost every street corner. Marinated overnight with garlic, soy, and palm sugar, the pork is juicy, slightly sweet, and perfect with sticky rice.
7. Khao Pad Talay (Seafood Fried Rice) 🍚
Simple, fast, and filling. Seafood fried rice is the go-to meal for locals and travellers alike. Loaded with prawns, squid, or crab, it’s served with a slice of lime and chilli fish sauce. On Koh Samui, you’ll often find it cooked right on the beach.
8. Roti Pancakes 🥞
Crispy on the outside, soft inside — roti is one of Thailand’s sweetest island treats. Vendors cook them on hot plates, filling them with banana, Nutella, or egg. A drizzle of condensed milk makes it extra indulgent, especially after a night market stroll.
9. Fresh Coconut Ice Cream 🥥
Served in a coconut shell with toppings like roasted peanuts, sticky rice, and sweet syrup, coconut ice cream is a refreshing dessert you’ll crave in the heat. It’s light, creamy, and full of tropical flavour.
10. Tropical Fruits 🍍🥭
Thailand’s islands are fruit heaven. Mango, pineapple, mangosteen, rambutan, and dragonfruit are sold everywhere, often freshly sliced and ready to eat. Phuket’s pineapples are famous for being extra sweet, while Koh Samui’s coconuts are world-renowned.
Final Thoughts
Island life in Thailand is as much about the food as the beaches. From fiery curries to street-side snacks and tropical desserts, every dish reflects the culture, climate, and community of Phuket and Koh Samui. For villa guests, many local chefs can bring these flavours straight to your dining table, turning your stay into a true culinary experience.
So whether you’re exploring night markets, dining by the beach, or hosting a private chef dinner, make sure to try these top island foods — because no Thai island holiday is complete without them.
