Must-Try Foods In Ko Yao Yai (Phi Phi Islands) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Ko Yao Yai, Phi Phi Islands, Thailand

Located in the stunning Andaman Sea, the Ko Yao Yai and the Phi Phi Islands are part of a breathtaking archipelago that has not only attracted tourists for its natural beauty but also for its unique culinary offerings. The traditional food of these islands is heavily influenced by the surrounding sea. Local cuisine has a strong focus on fresh seafood, with an array of dishes that make use of the day's catch. Alongside seafood, Thai staples such as rice, noodles, and a variety of local herbs and spices form an integral part of the culinary landscape.

Much of the food culture in the islands has been shaped by the local Muslim population, meaning a significant portion of dishes are Halal and do not include pork. Thai Buddhist and Muslim culinary traditions blend seamlessly, resulting in a unique food history that emphasizes fresh ingredients with a rich blend of flavors - a true reflection of the cultural diversity found in this tropical paradise.

Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Ko Yao Yai, Phi Phi Islands

1. Tom Yum Goong (Non-Veg) - A famous spicy and sour soup with shrimp, flavored with lemongrass, lime leaves, galangal, and chilies.
2. Pad Thai (Veg/Non-Veg option) - Stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, tofu, bean sprouts, and a choice of shrimp or vegetables, seasoned with tamarind paste and fish sauce.
3. Massaman Curry (Veg/Non-Veg option) - A rich, mildly spicy curry typically with chicken, but also available with vegetables, cooked with coconut milk, potatoes, and nuts.
4. Green Curry (Veg/Non-Veg option) - Made with green chilies, coconut milk, and fresh vegetables, and can include chicken or tofu.
5. Som Tam (Veg) - Spicy green papaya salad with tomatoes, string beans, peanuts, and lime juice.
6. Yellow Curry (Non-Veg) - A milder curry with turmeric as one of the principal ingredients, cooked with fish or chicken.
7. Fried Rice (Veg/Non-Veg option) - Fried rice with options to add vegetables, chicken, or shrimp, inflavored with garlic and soy sauce.
8. Mango Sticky Rice (Veg) - Sweet ripe mango served over sticky rice and drizzled with coconut milk.
9. Spring Rolls (Veg/Non-Veg option) - Fried or fresh spring rolls filled with vegetables, noodles, and sometimes shrimp or chicken.
10. Grilled Fish (Non-Veg) - Whole fish grilled to perfection, often served with a spicy dipping sauce.

Top Famous Restaurants in Ko Yao Yai, Phi Phi Islands

• Laem Sai Seafood
  Address: 48/7 Moo 2, Ko Yao Yai
  Famous Food: Grilled Seafood (Non-Veg)
• Pum Thai Restaurant & Cooking School
  Address: 125 Moo 7, Phi Phi Island
  Famous Food: Pad Thai (Veg/Non-Veg option)
• Kaya Restaurant
  Address: Ko Yao Yai Village, 78 Moo 4
  Famous Food: Massaman Curry (Veg/Non-Veg option)
• Tonsai Seafood
  Address: Tonsai Bay, Phi Phi Don Village
  Famous Food: Som Tam (Veg)
• Anna's Restaurant
  Address: Ko Yao Yai Island
  Famous Food: Mango Sticky Rice (Veg)
• Chaba Cafe and Gallery
  Address: 48/3 Moo 2, Ko Yao Yai
  Famous Food: Fried Rice with Chicken (Non-Veg)
• Esan Food
  Address: Ko Yao Yai
  Famous Food: Grilled Fish (Non-Veg)
• Royal Thai Cuisine
  Address: Ko Yao Yai Island
  Famous Food: Green Curry (Veg/Non-Veg option)
• Phi Phi Bakery
  Address: Tonsai Village, Phi Phi Islands
  Famous Food: Spring Rolls (Veg/Non-Veg option)
• Blue Marine Resort
  Address: Loh Dalum Bay, Phi Phi Island
  Famous Food: Yellow Curry with Chicken (Non-Veg)