After spending weeks eating my way around Long Beach, Klong Khong, Kantiang Bay, Old Town, and Saladan, these are the restaurants I kept coming back to and would recommend.
For every section I’ll start with my favourites and work my way down, so if you’re just on the island for a couple of days just pick the top ones and I’m sure you’ll have some amazing food experiences.
Alternatively check out everyone and see how close they are to where you’re staying. Koh Lanta is a huge and many of the spots below are scattered around the island.
Best Thai Food in Koh Lanta
If you're coming to Thailand to eat authentic Thai food, these are the restaurants you should prioritise.
Khao Soi Long Beach
This is hands down my favourite spot on the island. I still think about the food from time to time, and that doesn't happen often. It’s located hidden down a side street so I came here on a whim. I ended up liking it so much that we even decided to have our Christmas Eve meal here. You need to try the Panang Curry here.
Basil Bistro
I got this one recommended by a local and I kept coming back again and again. The food is really good, and it has a very nice vibe as well. I actually preferred this one to the many beach front restaurants in the area.
Mama Dang Kitchen
Mama Dang Kitchen is one of those restaurants that you might discover halfway through your trip and then return to repeatedly. That's at least what happened to me.
The food tastes genuinely homemade and delicious.
Yawee Restaurant
This is another huge winner I kept coming back to. It’s a family-run spot that serves some of the most authentic curries, stir-fries, and seafood dishes you'll find on Koh Lanta.
The Massaman Curry is amazing. The portions are generous, the prices are reasonable, and the flavors are excellent. This is the kind of place where you'll probably return more than once.
Where Else Garden Eatery & Bar
Tucked away in a tropical garden, this relaxed restaurant serves both Thai and international cuisine in a peaceful setting. We came here a couple of times and it was always good. I also think it’s one of the more charming spots with lots of colour and funky interior. There were never a lot of people here, but I honestly don't understand why, because the food was really good.
Sanctuary Café
I decided to add this one as well not only because the food was very good and reasonable, but because in my opinion it’s one of the best places to socialise with other travellers on the island. It’s located on the beach at Sanctuary Hostel.
Sabai Sabai Viewpoint & Lounge
Even though I genuinely enjoyed the food here, it's the views that make me add it to the list.
It has panoramic views stretching across the Andaman Sea, making it one of Koh Lanta's most Instagrammable locations. You can even relax in their hammock-like areas while enjoying the view.
Pinto Restaurant
This one is located in Koh Lanta Old Town and is my favourite spot in the city. It specializes in southern Thai cuisine and is truly delicious and very resanoble. The view overlooking the sea is an added bonus.
I wouldn't travel all the way to Old Town just to eat here, but if you explore the island and wander around old Town this is by far the best one in my opinion.
Best Western & International Restaurants in Koh Lanta
If you're staying in Thailand for a long time it’s allowed to need a break from Thai food.
Thankfully, Koh Lanta has excellent international options as well. For most of the spots below I highly reocmmend getting a reservation if you’re visiting during high season.
Joe's Texas BBQ
Perhaps not what you expect to find on a Thai island, but this spot has some seriously good food.
They serve slow-smoked brisket, ribs, pulled pork, homemade sauces, and authentic Texas barbecue. I have to say I was a bit skeptical, but after eating here I can honestly say it’s a spot you need to try while on Koh Lanta. Especially if you’re a meat lover.
Yang Garden
This might be the island's most beautiful restaurant. It has a tropical garden setting which creates a really magical atmosphere. The food is also really, really good.
El Greco
I never say no to some Greek food, so when I found this I had to try it. And it's exactly as good as I hoped it would be. In addition the interior and vibe here is super charming.
Loro Loco Pizza Cuisine
If you’re craving some really good Italian food this is the place to go. It’s the best place on the island for pizza, and they also serve some truly delicious homemade pasta.
Qing's Noodles & Dumplings
This is a fantastic alternative when you're craving something completely different.
They serve handmade dumplings and Chinese-style noodle dishes, and is the best spot on the island for Chinese food.
Best Breakfast & Brunch Spots in Koh Lanta
Even though I absolutely love Thai food, I do think it's hard to start my day with it. When you're used to starting the day with bread or youghurt it's nice to have some options. Below are some spots I kept coming back to for a light breakfast, lunch or a bigger brunch.
Bonnie's Deli
I love this spot and we kept coming back again and again. It’s part deli, part café and part wine shop. They serve imported cheeses, charcuterie, fresh bread, gourmet sandwiches, and excellent wine. The owner is Swedish so if you’re from the Nordics like me and miss Scandinavian candy, this is a must visit.
Tuesday Morning Small Talk
This is one of my favourite spots for breakfast or lunch. In addition to having really good food, they also have an amazing view over the beach. It's the perfect place to spend a slow morning before heading to the beach.
Living Room Café
If you’re craving bagels, salads or smoothie bowls, this is your spot!
FOOD by DOX
If you're staying near Klong Khong this is a great spot to check out. They serve a mix of Thai, Vietnamese and Middle-Eastern cuisine. And it’s all delicious. Their banh mi sandwiches are particularly popular.
Together Cafe Koh Lanta
One of the island's best all-around breakfast spots. The coffee is excellent, the homemade bread is fantastic, and the menu offers everything from smoothie bowls to breakfast sandwiches. If you’re not living very close to it I would probably head to one of the spots above first, but if you're staying near this is a great find.
I hope this helps you plan your upcoming adventure to Koh Lanta and Thailand. If you have any questions about travel in Thailand, or just want to follow along as I travel the world full time, don‘t hesitate to reach out to me on social media. I would love to connect and help out!
-Ingrid