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: specific opening hours are not listed online, so 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.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Chez François, round out your day in Koh Samui with contrasting stops nearby.
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.
Also Popular in Koh Samui
Ko Pha Ngan
White-sand beaches & coconut trees on island known for its monthly Full Moon Party celebrations.
Ko Tao
Island offering scenic white sand beaches, coral reefs & scuba diving, with numerous resorts & bars.
Wat Phra Yai
Massive, circa-1972 gilded Buddha statue at the colorful Phra Yai temple complex.
Central Samui
Koh Samui's largest mall blends indoor and open-air shopping with local markets, dining, and family amenities.
Similar Restaurants & Food Across Thailand
Aonchorn Thai restaurant ออนชอน ราชดำเนิน
Authentic Thai street food restaurant in Phra Nakhon serving flavoursome dishes at remarkably affordable prices.

Kodtalay The Riverfront Seafood Buffet
A riverside seafood buffet in Sathorn serving fresh catches and Thai dishes daily from 2 PM.
Central Pattaya
A large, well-organised shopping mall in central Pattaya with extensive dining, a food court, and retail options.
The Village Farm To Café
A scenic farm-to-table café on Highway 323 in Kanchanaburi, serving fresh, locally-sourced food in a spacious, village-style setting.
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). Ferry from Surat Thani takes ~1.5 hrs — a cheaper option.
Getting around
- •Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road)
- •Motorbike or scooter rental
- •Taxis (metered or negotiate upfront)
- •Grab available in main areas