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Updated by Joanna James on Sep 18, 2025
Headline for 6 Must-Try Thai Dishes in Koh Samui That Locals Actually Eat - Taste the Island’s True Flavours
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6 Must-Try Thai Dishes in Koh Samui That Locals Actually Eat - Taste the Island’s True Flavours

Thailand is a food-lover’s paradise, and Koh Samui is no different, being the second largest island in the country. From delicious curries to tropical desserts, locals on the island enjoy a delicious variety of dishes that many tourists miss. Here are six must-try Thai dishes in Koh Samui.

1

Sour Fish Curry

Known as Gaeng Som Pla by the locals, this is a bold and tangy fish curry that’s not for the faint of heart. Made with tamarind, turmeric, and chilli, this fiery soup is often served with fresh vegetables like green papaya or morning glory. While you can find these dishes at places like the Avani+ Samui Resort, you can also ask for this dish, you can also ask for it using the local name at roadside shops.

2

Southern Thai Rice Salad

If you are craving for some rice salad, Khao Yam is a must try. This is a dish that combines rice with dried shrimp, raw mango and coconut, dressed with a fish sauce. It is a refreshing snack eaten by locals and served in many Koh Samui Restaurants around the island. This dish is mostly eaten for breakfast and lunch, and rarely for dinner by locals in Koh Samui. This dish is considered a nourishing and detoxifying meal by the locals and is a feast for your taste buds.

3

Fried Fish with Turmeric

Koh Samui, being an island, is never short of seafood, and one such seafood dish that is enjoyed by locals at the beach with a cold beer is Pla Tod Kamin. This is a simple, crispy, deep-fried fish marinated in turmeric, garlic and salt. This is served with a delicious chilli dip that brings all the flavours together. 

4

Sweet Pork Stew

The best part about Koh Samui’s food scene isn’t just the taste, it is the story, tradition and the heart behind each dish. Moo Hong is a sweet and savoury pork belly stew that locals cook at home for family gatherings or special occasions. It’s best eaten with hot white rice and a bit of pickled mustard greens. 

5

Fermented Rice Noodles with Fish Curry

Kanom Jeen as the locals say it, is a dish made with soft, thin rice noodles, topped with curry and an array of fresh herbs, boiled eggs, and vegetables. This is mostly eaten by locals as a breakfast dish and can be found widely around Koh Samui during morning hours. This is one of the most authentic breakfast dishes you can find in Koh Samui and must not be missed.

6

Red Ruby Dessert

Everyone knows about mango sticky rice but when you are in Koh Samui, to eat like a local, you must try Tub Tim Grob, a Thai dessert made with crunchy water chestnuts coated in red jelly, served in sweetened coconut milk with crushed ice. It is an excellent way to beat the heat as it is not just refreshing but quite fun to eat as well.