Rayong Province Thailand Travel Guide
Koh Samet island's cuisine takes much from general Thai culinary traditions, especially those of the Eastern Seaboard (Rayong province). Thai cuisine balances four fundamental tastes: spicy, sour, sweet, and salty.
This balance creates complex and harmonious flavors in every bite. On Koh Samet, the focus remains mainly on accessible, flavorful Thai dishes catering to both local and international palates.
Typically, Thais use a fork and spoon for the majority of meals. The fork pushes food onto the spoon, which then goes into the mouth. Chopsticks are mainly for noodle dishes.
Meals usually serve family-style, with multiple dishes placed in the heart of the table for passing along among diners. Each person takes small portions to eat with their rice.
Do not waste food. Order what you can finish and clear your plate.
This spicy and tangy shrimp soup bursts with fragrance from lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves.
Available almost everywhere, from humble eateries to upscale resorts.
A beloved stir-fried rice noodle dish with eggs, tofu or shrimp, bean sprouts, peanuts, and a sweet-savory tamarind sauce.
Widely available at most restaurants and street stalls, often customized to your preference.
A rich, sweet, and spicy curry with coconut milk, green chilies, bamboo shoots, and your choice of meat.
Most Thai restaurants feature this creamy, flavorful curry.
Small, sweet coconut-rice pancakes, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, created in a special griddle.
Often with a sweet coconut cream, offering a warm, caramelized flavor.
Limited on Ko Samet. Places like Le Vimarn Cottages & Spa and Paradee Resort supply high-end dining.
Mid-range restaurants are abundant across all main beaches.
Affordable and authentic flavors await on Koh Samet.
Finding vegetarian options in Thailand commonly goes well. Many stir-fries and curries come as "jay" (vegan) if you specify your preference.
Look for "jay" or "vegetarian" signs in conscious eateries.
Learn a few simple Thai phrases: "Gin jay" (I'm vegetarian/vegan), "Mai sai neua sat" (meat-free), "Mai sai nam pla" (no a salty sauce made from fermented fish).
These phrases significantly assist communication.
More difficult to find dedicated options. A salty frequently haves wheat. Cross-contamination exists.
Carry a Translation card in Thai stating specific allergies (e.g., peanuts, shellfish).
Clearly explain dietary needs to restaurant staff or street food vendors.
Apps or printed cards that translate dietary restrictions into Thai are invaluable.
This quintessentially Ko Samet dining involves tables directly on the sand, with fresh seafood grilled to order.
Often with nightly fire shows for an enchanting atmosphere.
Many restaurants permit selecting raw seafood by weight from a display.
You choose how it cooks and with which sauce, creating a personalized dining experience.
Many eateries on Koh Samet island cater for travelers and supply Western dishes.
Ko Samet does not feature large traditional markets or food halls. Small local stalls appear near the pier or in busier areas.
Well-known for its nightly fire show accompanying dinner on Hat Sai Kaew.
Numerous spots along Hat Sai Kaew, Ao Wong Duean, and Ao Prao offer dining by the beach.
Many resorts supply their own dining venues, often with refined menus.
Many dishes come vegetarian or entirely plant-based on demand. Look for "jay" signs.
More challenging. Carry a translation card for specific allergies, as some ingredients (like soy sauce) contain frequently occurring allergens.
Cross-contamination is always a possibility in kitchens.
Savor an abundance of freshly caught seafood, usually grilled right on the beach.
Relax with a drink at numerous bars lining the beaches, notably at sundown.
Savor the island's fresh tropical fruits, available from various vendors.
Embrace local dining practices for a richer experience, including sharing dishes and a relaxed attitude towards minor issues.
