


The Fish Restaurant
Tucked away in Mae Nam on Koh Samui's northern coast, The Fish Restaurant has built a strong reputation among visitors for its straightforward approach to seafood — fresh catches prepared simply, letting the quality of the ingredients do the talking. The Mae Nam location places it away from the island's busier tourist corridors, giving it a more local, unhurried character that sets it apart from the resort-heavy dining scenes found elsewhere on the island. Diners can expect a casual, unpretentious atmosphere where the focus sits firmly on the food. The menu centres on fish and seafood, and the consistent praise from a large number of visitors points to reliable quality and good value. It suits travellers looking for a genuine dining experience rather than something polished for tourist expectations. Good to know: Mae Nam is one of Koh Samui's calmer neighbourhoods, which means The Fish Restaurant tends to attract a quieter crowd than restaurants closer to Chaweng or Lamai. No website is currently listed, so it is worth asking locally or checking with accommodation staff for current opening hours before making the trip, as schedules can shift with the season. Arriving on the earlier side during peak travel periods is a practical way to secure a table without a long wait.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After The Fish Restaurant, round out your day in Koh Samui with contrasting stops nearby.
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
Where to stay near The Fish Restaurant
Find hotels in Koh Samui on the booking sites travellers trust most.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
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
A laid-back Thai island of white-sand beaches, jungle interior, and the legendary monthly Full Moon Party.

Ko Tao
A small Gulf of Thailand island renowned for white sand beaches, coral reefs, and world-class scuba diving.

Wat Phra Yai
A iconic gilded Buddha statue from 1972 sits atop a hilltop temple complex with panoramic sea views.

Central Samui
Koh Samui's largest mall, with indoor and open-air wings, international brands, a food court, and a staffed children's play area.
Similar Restaurants & Food Across Thailand

Kodtalay The Riverfront Seafood Buffet
Riverfront seafood buffet in Sathorn with fresh grilled prawns, wide variety, and open-air Chao Phraya views.

Central Pattaya
A large, modern mall on Pattaya Beach Road with an extensive food court and broad shopping options.

The Village Farm To Café
A deceptively spacious farm-to-café on Highway 323 that opens into a lush, village-like retreat.

Pier 21
A bustling food court on level 5 of Terminal 21, serving affordable Thai classics daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
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
Where to stay near The Fish Restaurant
Find hotels in Koh Samui on the booking sites travellers trust most.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.