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Restaurants & Food
Koh Samui

Chez François

4.8(393 reviews)$$$$

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

Hidden gem
Visitor favorite
Mid-range

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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/
Opening Hours
MondayClosed
Tuesday18:30–23:00
Wednesday18:30–23:00
Thursday18:30–23:00
Friday18:30–23:00
Saturday18:30–23:00
SundayClosed

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

High

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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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.

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

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