Chez François
Tucked into the characterful Fisherman's Village neighbourhood of Bophut, this French restaurant offers genuine Gallic cooking in one of Koh Samui's most appealing corners. The setting along the village's traditional streetscape provides a welcome contrast to the island's more resort-oriented dining strips, creating a relaxed atmosphere that suits a long, unhurried meal. Diners can expect a mid-range French menu prepared with evident care, drawing consistent praise from a broad range of visitors. For travellers experiencing palate fatigue from Thai food, or those simply looking to diversify their eating itinerary, Chez François provides a reliable European alternative without the premium price tag often attached to Western cuisine on the island. The combination of quality cooking and reasonable pricing appears to be a key reason for its strong and sustained reputation among both tourists and expats. Good to know: It is worth contacting the restaurant directly or stopping by in advance to confirm service times, particularly during low season when some Bophut establishments adjust their schedules. Fisherman's Village is easily reached from most parts of Koh Samui by songthaew or taxi, and the area also rewards a short stroll before or after dining, with local shops and a pleasant beachfront nearby.
Taste more of Koh Samui
Street-food tours, market visits, and Thai cooking classes near Chez François — a guided way to eat like a local.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Chez François, round out your day in Koh Samui with contrasting stops nearby.
Also Popular in Koh Samui

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Samui (Soi 1 Branch)
Ethical elephant sanctuary in Maenam offering daily hands-on encounters with rescued elephants in a jungle setting.

Wat Phra Yai
A 12-metre gilded Buddha, free entry and 360-degree views over the bays: half an hour well spent.

Central Samui
Air-con when you need it, open-air wings when you don't, and a food court worth the trip on its own.

Hin Ta Hin Yai
Two rude-shaped rocks, free to visit, worth twenty minutes and a coconut ice cream on the way out.
Chez François: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chez François worth visiting?
Chez François holds a 4.8★ rating from 393 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated restaurants & food in Koh Samui.
What are the opening hours of Chez François?
Chez François is typically open 18:30-23:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
How expensive is Chez François?
Chez François is moderately priced (฿฿) relative to other restaurants & food in Koh Samui.
When is the best time to visit Chez François?
The best months to visit Koh Samui are January – August, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in July – August & December — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: October – December (Gulf Coast monsoon).
Where is Chez François located?
Chez François is at 33/2 Moo1 Fisherman's Village, Bophut, Tambon Bo Put, Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat Surat Thani 84320, Thailand, in Koh Samui. Getting around Koh Samui: Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road); Motorbike or scooter rental.
Location Info
33/2 Moo1 Fisherman's Village, Bophut, Tambon Bo Put, Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat Surat Thani 84320, Thailand096 071 1800www.chezfrancoissamui.com/Visitor Information
Best time to visit
January – August
Avoid: October – December (Gulf Coast monsoon)
Rainy season
October – December
Avg. temperature
24°C – 32°C(75°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: July – August & December
Getting there
Koh Samui Airport (USM) has direct flights from Bangkok and regional hubs (Bangkok Airways monopoly). The ferry from Surat Thani takes ~1.5 hrs and it's cheaper.
Getting around
- •Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road)
- •Motorbike or scooter rental
- •Taxis (metered or negotiate upfront)
- •Grab available in main areas
Where to stay near Chez François
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- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
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Tips for Visiting Restaurants & Food
Learn the Spice Scale
Say 'mai pet' for no spice, 'pet nit noi' for a little spice, or 'pet mak' if you want it Thai-hot. Most cooks will default to a toned-down version for foreigners unless you specify otherwise.
Follow the Crowds
The busiest street stalls are almost always the best — high turnover means fresh ingredients and a recipe that locals vouch for. An empty restaurant at dinner time is a red flag.
Ice Is Safe
Factory-made tube or cylinder ice (used in virtually all restaurants and stalls) is made from purified water and is safe to consume. You don't need to skip the iced Thai tea.
Nearby Places

Grow Brunch & Brew
Highly regarded brunch cafe and specialty coffee spot in Bo Phut, open daily from 9am.

The Thai Tapas
Thai and fusion small plates in Bo Put, where creative dishes and attentive service make for a social, flavour-forward meal.

Charm Samui Restaurant
Fusion dining in Fisherman's Village with a famously warm host and standout food.

The Life Aquatic
A highly regarded dive centre in Bophut, Koh Samui, offering fun dives, courses, and trips to top local sites.
Similar Restaurants & Food Across Thailand

Kodtalay The Riverfront Seafood Buffet
Open-air seafood buffet on the Chao Phraya from 599 baht, and the river seats are worth asking for.

Central Pattaya
A big air-conditioned mall on Beach Road where the food court does the heavy lifting.

The Village Farm To Café
Looks like nothing from the highway, then opens up into green fields, high ceilings and properly fresh food.

Kodtalay Seafood Buffet Sukhumvit
Live river prawns from the tank, grilled at your table, and no clock ticking on how long you stay.
Where to stay near Chez François
Find hotels in Koh Samui on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
January – August
Avoid: October – December (Gulf Coast monsoon)
Rainy season
October – December
Avg. temperature
24°C – 32°C(75°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: July – August & December
Getting there
Koh Samui Airport (USM) has direct flights from Bangkok and regional hubs (Bangkok Airways monopoly). The ferry from Surat Thani takes ~1.5 hrs and it's cheaper.
Getting around
- •Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road)
- •Motorbike or scooter rental
- •Taxis (metered or negotiate upfront)
- •Grab available in main areas