If you thought the foodie scene in Koh Samui was only Thai dishes and tropical cocktails, think again. This island paradise has a delicious culinary surprise waiting for you… the sunny, “soul-warming” flavours of the Mediterranean!

The Arrival of Mediterranean Influences
Mediterranean traders first arrived in Thailand centuries ago, bringing with them ingredients such as olive oil, garlic, and aromatic herbs like basil and oregano. Over time, these blended beautifully with local ingredients such as lemongrass and Thai basil, and this, in turn, created a unique harmony of flavours. It’s this cross-cultural culinary fusion that makes Mediterranean cuisine in Koh Samui so delectable.

Finding Ideal Restaurants in Koh Samui
If you are craving a Mediterranean feast, you will find selected eateries on the island offering a taste of the region. Of course, for more convenience, look to stay at properties like SAii Koh Samui Villas, which features its own Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, Miss Olive Oyl. Such dining venues prioritise organic ingredients, fresh seafood, and flame-grilled dishes, which can be paired with New and Old World wines.

Seafood Remains A Key Highlight
When it comes to Mediterranean cuisine, seafood takes centre stage, and the great thing is that it’s also an integral part of Thai food. Koh Samui, being an island, offers easy access to the sea, which means you can expect the freshest catch on your plate. From prawns to snapper, every dish celebrates the ocean’s bounty… think of it as a delicious meeting between the Andaman and the Aegean!

Some Key Dishes to Try

Image by Galina Afanaseva from Pixabay

Start with a classic Greek salad featuring olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, capsicum, shallots, herbs, and essential feta cheese. Move on to seafood linguine, tossed with prawns, clams and squid in a truffle-kissed white wine cream sauce. Try a hearty seafood spaghetti marinara with tomato cream, mussel, squid, prawns and basil, or go for a Mediterranean-style baked whole seabass served with pizza bread. Each day can be a new culinary discovery!