Must-Try Foods In Secret Buddha Garden (Koh Samui) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Secret Buddha Garden, Koh Samui

The Secret Buddha Garden, located in the hills of Koh Samui, is known more for its tranquility and sculptural beauty rather than its culinary offerings. Created by a local fruit farmer, Nim Thongsuk, in 1976, the garden offers a serene escape rather than a traditional eating destination. The island of Koh Samui itself, however, has a rich culinary history influenced by Southern Thai cuisine, with an abundance of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and bold flavors featuring spicy, sweet, sour, and salty elements.

Top 10 Food Dishes to Try

While the Secret Buddha Garden may not serve food directly within its grounds, Koh Samui offers an array of delectable dishes that visitors can indulge in at nearby eateries.

1. Tom Yum Goong (Non-Veg): A spicy and sour soup with shrimp, lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves.
2. Massaman Curry (Non-Veg): A rich, relatively mild Thai curry made with chicken, potatoes, onions, and peanuts.
3. Pad Thai (Veg/Non-Veg): A famous Thai stir-fried noodle dish that can be made with chicken, shrimp or as a vegetarian option.
4. Green Curry (Veg/Non-Veg): Made with green chilies, this curry can be enjoyed with a choice of tofu for vegetarians or chicken for non-vegetarians.
5. Som Tam (Veg): A spicy green papaya salad that's refreshingly tart, with tomatoes, green beans, peanuts and lime dressing.
6. Red Curry (Veg/Non-Veg): A spicy and creamy curry that can be made with various meats or tofu and vegetables for a vegetarian version.
7. Mango Sticky Rice (Veg): A sweet dessert made with ripe mango and glutinous rice, topped with coconut cream.
8. Pad Krapow (Non-Veg): Stir-fried meat, typically pork or chicken, with Thai basil and chilies, usually served with a fried egg on top.
9. Spring Rolls (Veg/Non-Veg): Deep-fried or fresh rolls filled with vegetables, and sometimes meat or seafood, served with dipping sauce.
10. Gaeng Keow Wan (Veg/Non-Veg): A sweet and spicy green curry made with meat or vegetables and coconut milk.

Top Restaurants Near Secret Buddha Garden

These restaurants are not directly situated within the Secret Buddha Garden but are established in various locations around Koh Samui.

• The Jungle Club

  Address: 44/11 Moo 3, Chaweng Noi Beach, Bophut, Koh Samui

  Famous for: Ocean views and Thai-European fusion dishes (Veg/Non-Veg)

• Dr. Frogs Bar & Grill

  Address: 103 Moo 3, Bophut, Koh Samui

  Famous for: Italian and Thai cuisine with vegetarian options (Veg/Non-Veg)

• Samui Seafood Grill & Restaurant

  Address: 56/24 Moo 3, Chaweng Beach Road, Bophut, Koh Samui

  Famous for: Fresh seafood dishes (Non-Veg)

• Spirit House Village

  Address: Nathon Rd, Ang Thong, Koh Samui

  Famous for: Traditional Thai cuisine in a serene setting (Veg/Non-Veg)

• Tree Tops

  Address: 92/1 Moo 2, Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort, Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui

  Famous for: Fine dining in treehouse settings, international dishes (Veg/Non-Veg)

When visiting Koh Samui and the Secret Buddha Garden, it is recommended that tourists explore the plethora of dining options available across the island, each offering their unique take on Thai cuisine as well as international favorites.