10 Best Restaurants in the charming Koh Yao Noi
The stunning paradise island of Koh Yao Noi is a hidden gem of peace and tranquility.
Only a stone’s throw from tourist-haven Phuket, this island couldn’t be more different. Its calm, slow-paced atmosphere gives an insight into the authentic island life that characterises much of Southern Thailand.
The people of Koh Yao Noi make a living from fishing, as we discovered from the many fishing boats around the island.
Throughout the island, a sense of being encompassed by nature takes over. Distinctive sounds of the Tokay geckos can be heard all over, as well as the unique, and very loud, ‘wow’ call from the Asian Koel.
Aside from the iconic sounds, the most notable wildlife was the abundance of roaming cats. Their constant presence creating a comforting sense of solidarity. It felt as if cats ruled over the island as they promenaded along the streets. At times, I’m sure I saw more cats than humans, which led to us referring to the island as ‘Cat Yao Noi’.
A visit to this enchanting island will involve exploring untouched beaches, swimming in secluded waters and gazing upon breath-taking sunsets. But, don’t worry, I haven’t forgot to mention, eating the most delectable cuisine in Thailand!
After all, where better to eat local cuisine than on an undiscovered island whose culinary traditions haven’t been influenced by tourism.
From mouth-watering morning glory, to the freshest fried fish, not the mention the addictively refreshing chaiyen (Thai milk tea), this island is full of charming restaurants, cafes and bars that pride themselves in cooking dishes passed down for centuries.
10 Best Restaurants in Koh Yao Noi
Stella
The first food stop I have to mention is Stella. Less of a restaurant, more a beach shack, this is my favourite lunch place on the island. It has relaxed, islands vibes and offers stunning views while you eat.
The som tam (papaya salad), paired with fried rice and omelette made for the perfect lunch.
We ate here multiple times, not only due to the delicious food, but because it epitomised Koh Yao Noi’s laid-back and tranquil atmosphere.
Pradu Seafood Restaurant
Pradu restaurant was the first restaurant on the island and is where the locals go to eat, so it must be good!
We ordered a variety of seafood dishes, including prawns, freshly caught fish and calamari.
Located in the mangrove land on the west side, Pradu offers a very different atmosphere to the rest of the island. This community of houses sit on stilts above the water. At low tide, the slimy ground reveals an unusual ecosystem of crabs and insects, which we watched from above in the restaurant.
Rabianglay restaurant
Rabianglay restaurant is situated super close to our accommodation, Cha Bungalows, and offers an extensive menu of classic Thai food.
The restaurant itself is a classic Thai-style open structure and is filled with fairy lights and plants, making it a cosy spot for dinner. Alternatively, they have outdoor seating on the beach, with a beautiful backdrop of the vast sea.
Kaya restaurant
We fell in love with Kaya restaurant. The owners were very kind and all over food arrived super quickly.
The small details stood out, for example the hand-painted menus depicting scenes of Thailand. Also the open building was surrounded by lush, green trees, so we really felt as if we were eating amongst nature.
We ordered an array of dishes which were so tasty. I especially loved their yellow curry.
Don’t miss Kaya restaurant on your Koh Yao Noi trip!
Sabai Corner
This cute restaurant features a wooden structure overlooking the clear waters below. Surrounded by green plants, chirping birds and cats roaming freely, Sabai Corner possess a calming atmosphere.
We stopped here for a breakfast of rice porridge which was very tasty.
Amongst the trees, we even spotted a hornbill here, a rare species of bird that lives around the island.
Chaba Café
For more Western-style food, head to Chaba café for breakfast or lunch. Just off the main road on the east side, this enchanting café offers a relaxing environment where streams flow calmly and wind chimes twinkle in the breeze.
Matching the mindful atmosphere, they only serve healthy, nutritious vegetarian and vegan food. From turmeric milk drinks and smoothie bowls to vegan burgers and Thai food, they have a wide variety of tasty dishes.
After breakfast, we explored the small art gallery that’ they have in that’s attached to the café. It contains art from the island, as well as postcards and other potential souvenirs.
Thai tea shack
This small pop-up shack served the best Thai milk tea in Koh Yao Noi, along with many other fresh, chilled drinks. There are 2 shacks on the island and for 25 baht per drink, you can’t to wrong.
If you’re a Thai tea addict like me, then you will definitely appreciate this shack.
Sunset bar
A peaceful evening bar with an amazing sunset view!
We sipped on cocktails as we watched the sun setting behind the bold silhouette of the palm trees. The laid-back atmosphere of the bar, coupled with the slouchy beanbag seating arrangement, made for an easy-going evening.
We also had the perfect view of hornbills flying between the palm trees. The island is full of these exotic birds which just adds to the charm of Koh Yao Noi.
360 Bar
In the south of the island, you will be sure to notice a hill that protrudes from the tropical landscape. This is where the 360 bar is located, at the peak of the hill.
Offering a 360 degree view of the captivating island, this is the perfect spot to watch the sunset. They serve drinks and food, as well as having the choice between tables or floor seating.
Just to note, you have to park in the car park below and they drive you up to the bar for free. I believe this is due to it being a steep road and, therefore, susceptible to accidents.
O² beach bar
This bar is great for daytime chilling on the beach. They play reggae music and serve a variety of drinks and cocktails. Its located on Pasai beach for the ultimate island vibes.
They have sunbeds and hammocks so you can spend the day here chilling in the sun. There’s even a beach massage place next door if you want to treat yourself.
Where to stay in Koh Yao Noi?
We stayed at Cha Bungalows, one of the cheaper accommodations on the island. We had our own Thai-style bungalow on stilts, with a bathroom and a fridge. It was simple, yet cosy.
The area is full of palm trees and greenery, which felt like we were staying in the jungle. We even made a furry friend who lived on the premises.
The owner was very accommodating, helping us with anything we needed and offering suggestions about the island. She even gave us a gift before we left as a thank you. Cha Bungalows is an authentic place to stay and will give you the sensation of really living the Koh Yao Noi life.
Exploring all that this unassuming, hidden gem has to offer was simply a pleasure. Moreover, being welcomed by warm-hearted locals made Koh Yao Noi feel like home away from home.
Koh Yao Noi is a beautiful island and, with a delicious choice of cuisine, I hope you eat as well as we did.
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