foods

While the stunning beaches and fun activities are a huge draw, let’s be real – a big part of any great vacation is the food! Get ready to tantalize your taste buds because Larn Island is a hidden gem for some seriously delicious eats. From fresh seafood right off the boat to tasty Thai classics with an island twist, your culinary adventure starts here. Ready to dig in? Let’s explore the yummy world of food on Larn Island.

🦐 1. Grilled Seafood by the Beach

You can’t come to an island and not have seafood, right? Larn Island is famous for its fresh-off-the-boat seafood — grilled prawns, squid, fish, and scallops are served hot and smoky right by the sea.

  • Best spots: Samae Beach & Nual Beach
  • Must-try dish: Grilled prawns with spicy seafood sauce
  • Vibe: Casual, sandy toes, sea breeze — perfection

🍛 2. Som Tum (Papaya Salad)

A Thai classic that never goes out of style. Som Tum is spicy, tangy, crunchy, and super refreshing — especially on a hot beach day. It’s often served with sticky rice and grilled chicken for a full local-style meal.

  • Find it at: Food stalls near Tawaen Beach & local restaurants
  • Pro tip: Ask for “medium spicy” unless you’re feeling brave

🍲 3. Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)

This dish is bold, sour, spicy, and full of flavor. If you want to taste the heart of Thai cooking, this soup delivers. Plus, with the shrimp caught nearby, it doesn’t get any fresher than this.

  • Great places to try it: Lung Tee Restaurant, Koh Larn Kitchen
  • Pairs well with: Steamed jasmine rice and a cold coconut 🥥

🐟 4. Pla Pao (Salt-Crusted Grilled Fish)

Whole fish grilled over charcoal with lemongrass inside and a salty crust on the outside — it’s simple, delicious, and goes perfectly with a beachfront view.

  • Popular near: Seafood BBQ joints around Samae Beach
  • Eat it with: Spicy dipping sauce and a cold Leo beer 🍺

🍢 5. Street Food Skewers

Wandering the streets near Naban Pier or beach areas? You’ll find lots of small vendors selling meat skewers, sausages, grilled mushrooms, and more. Cheap, tasty, and super satisfying after a swim.

  • Price range: 10–30 THB per stick
  • Great for: Snacking while exploring or waiting for your boat

🍧 6. Coconut Ice Cream & Thai Desserts

Cool off with creamy coconut ice cream served in a coconut shell, or grab some Thai sweets like Khanom Krok (coconut pancakes) or sticky rice with mango.

  • Sweet stops: Dessert carts near Tawaen Beach, local cafes
  • Photo-worthy & delicious: That’s a win-win!

🧋 7. Iced Thai Milk Tea & Island Drinks

Don’t forget to grab a drink! Thai iced milk tea (Cha Yen) is sweet, strong, and perfect on a sunny day. You’ll also find fruit smoothies, iced coffee, and beachy cocktails.

  • Top places: Island cafes like Sea Space Koh Larn, Chill Lay Cafe
  • Recommended: Thai milk tea + mango smoothie combo

🍽️ Bonus: Local Restaurants to Try

Here are a few tried-and-true eateries on the island:

  • Lung Tee Restaurant: Local favorite with big portions and great prices
  • Ma Ha La Koh Larn: Known for seafood and beachfront atmosphere
  • Yong Kitchen: Homestyle Thai food with vegetarian options
  • Chalianglom Café: Beautiful ocean view + tasty Thai fusion