The tropical paradise of Koh Samui, Thailand, offers more than just stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters; it is a haven for food enthusiasts eager to explore Southern Thai cuisine. Travellers and families seeking to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of flavours found in this region can look forward to discovering gems across the island where you can indulge in authentic Southern Thai food. Those looking to take it up a notch and have an unparalleled dining experience can visit Cape Fahn Hotel’s fine dining restaurant in Koh Samui, Long Dtai.
Understanding Southern Thai Food
Southern Thai cuisine is a feast for the senses, marked by its bold and spicy flavours, aromatic herbs, and fresh ingredients. Influenced by its geographical location and historical trade routes, it stands distinct from the milder Northern Thai cuisine and the balanced tastes of Central Thai food.
Since the region is surrounded by the sea, most dishes contain seafood such as fish, shrimp, crab, and mussels. The abundance of coconuts also means recipes often include coconut milk. Fresh turmeric and pepper are also commonly used as spices, which aid digestion.
Locally grown fresh vegetables are also an integral part of every meal and serve to balance the food’s spiciness. Galangal and lemongrass are staples, along with a generous use of chillies, creating an intense and unforgettable flavour profile.
Iconic Southern Thai Food
We share popular must-try Southern Thai dishes made with ingredients that are full of flavour and heat:
Pad Kapi Sataw Goong
A celebration of stink beans or bitter beans native to the Southern region. The beans are stir-fried with fresh prawns and pungent shrimp paste, creating a dish that may be funky to the uninitiated, but certainly delicious.
Khua Kling Moo Saab
This dish is Southern Thai spice at its best – a dry curry stir-fried with diced pork and an abundance of chillies that will set your tastebuds on fire.
Gaeng Leung Yod Maprao Pla
A thick yellow curry brimming with spice and enriched with young coconut shoots and fresh fish, highlighting Southern Thais’ love for intense flavours.
Moo Hong
A milder option compared to the spiciness of most Southern dishes, this stewed pork dish combines pork belly with a paste of garlic, black peppercorns, and coconut sugar, resulting in a sweet and savoury dish.
Goong Pad Makham
A non-curry speciality bringing together fried prawns, palm sugar, fish sauce, and tamarind paste in a sweet, salty, and sour extravaganza.
Long Dtai’s Fine Dining Experience
Cape Fahn Hotel’s fine dining restaurant, Long Dtai, offers excellent Southern Thai dishes in a serene and elegant setting. Under the expert guidance of Michelin-starred chef David Thompson, the restaurant takes Southern Thai cuisine to new heights, offering an authentic and memorable dining experience.
Savouring Inspired Dishes of Long Dtai
At Long Dtai, traditional Thai cuisine is elevated with fresh, local produce, high-quality ingredients, and perfected cooking techniques. Our menu highlights Thai seafood dishes, perfectly complementing the restaurant’s seaside venue and relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy the rich flavours of Thai dishes with fresh seafood, from prawns and crab, to squid and various fish, along with premium meat and fresh vegetables.
Dive into our menu showcasing the delectable flavours and textures of food from Southern Thailand. Try the coconut and turmeric curry with blue swimmer crab, spicy stir-fried local scallops with wild ginger, green pepper, and holy basil, or grilled squid gorlae. In line with Cape Fahn Hotel’s commitment to sustainability, Long Dtai incorporates sustainable practices into its operations, ensuring that your dining experience is not only exquisite but also environmentally conscious.
A Culinary Gem in Cape Fahn Hotel
As you step into Long Dtai, you are welcomed by an ambience that exudes elegance and tranquillity, ensuring a dining experience like no other. The restaurant is meticulously designed, combining traditional Thai elements with modern aesthetics to create a luxurious and inviting space.
Perched on the cliffside, Long Dtai offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Thailand, allowing guests to dine with the gentle sounds of the waves in the background. The restaurant features intimate dining settings indoors and outdoors, providing privacy and exclusivity for our guests.
Our attentive and gracious staff go above and beyond to meet your every need, adding an extra layer of luxury to your dining experience.
A Gastronomic Adventure in Koh Samui
Koh Samui’s culinary landscape is a treasure trove of flavours waiting to be explored. From the unmatched elegance of fine dining in Koh Samui at Long Dtai in Cape Fahn Hotel to the rustic charm of local eateries across the island, Southern Thai food will take you on a journey of spice and flavour. Embark on a gastronomic adventure and let the bold and vibrant Thai food of the South fill you with delight.
