Lavinia Woolf
As Thailand's true foodie haven the culinary landscapes of Koh Phangan leave little to the imagination. From local favorites to regional specialties this one-stop food hub is a treat to the pallet.
Be it humble and simplistic there's nothing quite like this Thai take on a classic to make one's mouth water. Available through innumerable street-side vendors across Koh Phangan Chicken and Rice which is known as Khao Man Gai is a must-try dish for all food lovers touring the beach laden paradise. As the perfect combination of Hainan style chicken rice and Thai culinary influences this inexpensive but delectable dish is second to none. Other variations on the meat on rice phenomenon popular in Koh Phangan include Khao Moo Grawp (crisp pork and rice) and its stewed incarnation Khao Kha Moo. The Thai term "pee set"(meaning "special") is often uttered when ordering this local delicacy as a small portion of this delicious meal will simply not suffice
Traditional to the core Thai cakes stalls are omnipresent across the island of Koh Phangan, although many tourists have yet to discover the succulent taste of these conventional sweetmeats. Unusual but utterly delectable these Thai dessert options are true Koh Phangan staples that are worthy of sampling. Highlights include Khao Tom Make which is a banana lead laden wonder comprised of sticky rice and banana while the gelatine cake of many layers known as Khanom Chan is also a local favourite. Round shaped egg custard known as Tong Yet is another crowd pleaser. Colourful and always unusually sweet in taste it is important to note that the unique colours found in Thai cakes are not due to artificial colouring or preservatives. Local ingredients such as the Pandamus leaf give the desserts their bright green colour. One of the best places to sample these delicacies is the island's Pantip Food Market where local treats are served nightly.
Soft and translucent from the outside fried street food in Koh Phangan are equally delicious on the inside. With everything from spring rolls, Thai money bags and dim sums to fried seafood and creepy crawlies littering the markets in Thong Sala one would be truly spoilt for choice in this food haven. Washed down with a beer or a beverage of one's choice fried food items such as chicken sticks and prawn cakes are must-try menu items through street side vendors and night markets.
As one of the island's best kept secrets, handmade ice cream remains one of the best food items to try during a beach vacation in Koh Phangan. Forget the ice cream cones available ubiquitously around five-star Koh Phangan resorts, this homemade variation of the world's favorite dessert is simply to die for. Head down to the avenue that connects Thong Sala with Chaloklum where the island's famed handmade ice cream shop is located and sample a dairy treat that is equal to an Italian style gelato.
As a tried and true haven for Thai Food, Koh Phangan is home to its own share of authentic Thai restaurants. Away from the street-side varieties and make-shift alternatives available in food stalls authentic Thai dishes such as Pad Thai, green curries and prawn fritters can be enjoyed at venues such as the Bamboo Hut. Located within a short walk of Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa Resort & Spa this charming eatery is a must-visit highlights for avid Thai food lovers. Other popular Thai eateries serving premium local fair include the Jip Shop and aptly named Again and Again.
