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Chez François
Restaurants & Food
Koh Samui

Chez François

4.9(369 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: 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

Hidden gem
Visitor favorite
Mid-range

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.

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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). 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