Coffee shops on Samui
Koh Samui may have a cachet for excellence when it comes to dining, but coffee’s not lagging far behind – there’s been an explosion in the sheer number of places where you can drink coffee. Many of the coffee shops may look slightly different to the ones you’re used to back at home, but the coffee is always professionally made and there are almost always snacks of one kind or another to accompany your drink.
Here are just a few of literally hundreds of places to get your fix of caffeine:
Chaweng and nearby
Up the road from Central Festival, you’ll find Amaya Café at Amari Koh Samui. This laid-back coffee shop is reminiscent of being in Europe and ideal if you need time out and a place to linger. They also specialize in sumptuous breakfasts and afternoon tea.
Speaking of breakfasts, drop into Dr Frogs, on the coast road just outside Chaweng as you head towards Lamai. They have an excellent selection but if it’s just coffee you want, then you’ll find it here. This restaurant has some of the most amazing views on the island.
Art Café by June is a much-loved haunt for islanders and is to be found in Samui Town Centre, close to Big C in Chaweng. Lots of people like to meet here for coffee. With easy parking, great meals, and books to browse, it’s not surprising this venue has always been so popular.
North Coast
Hachiya Coffee Roastery, close to the beach and the Chinese temple in Maenam, is run by an affable Japanese barista, who actually roasts his coffee. A favorite for those exploring Maenam’s Chinatown, or anyone wanting a break from the beach.
Great coffee awaits at Ling Café, along with snacks and food. Sip an ice coffee, as you gaze out over the sea. This spot is perfect for breakfast, too, and has quickly established itself as a favorite venue. The café is located on the beach road between Fisherman’s Village and Bangrak. Also popular with cyclists and runners, who use the hill immediately opposite as a vast and demanding sports track.
South Coast
Just south of Lamai, Lolamui is set in a house and its garden and is renowned for its coffee, teas and cakes. Coffees are dependably good and you’re welcome to stay as long as you wish. The setting is tranquil and you’ll be loath to depart. Try the delicious chocolate cake. Lolamui is located at the top of the hill on the ring road just before it descends towards Lamai Post Office and Makro.
West
In Nathon, The Road Less Travelled Café Bar, on the ring road serves coffee and cake, and has books to browse, and you’ll also find Roung Thong Bakery, an ever-popular venue for anyone needing a break whilst shopping. They make excellent bread, too.
While shopping
Head for the mall – you can’t go wrong. Samui has several malls and each one serves good coffee. At Lotus’s in Chaweng, right in the food hall, you’ll find Octopus Coffee which serves an array of coffees, both hot and cold. They also have great cakes too. At Big C, Starbucks has an outlet just outside and has another shop at Central Festival in Chaweng. Central Festival is also home to popular Australian brand The Coffee Club which serves up a variety of meals as well as a plethora of snacks. Eat on the terrace or directly in the air-con interior.
Amazon Café has plentiful outlets on Samui and is a great place if you’ve just gassed up at a PTT station and need a break. They have teas and snacks too and usually both an air-con interior and terrace.
Make sure you make time for tea or coffee on Koh Samui – after all, you’ve probably come here for a more relaxed lifestyle, even if you are running a business. You’ll soon have a list of places you will want to return to. With such a huge variety, there really is something for everyone.