Krua Chao Baan is a large beachside seafood restaurant just south of Lamai on Samui’s ring road with idyllic views out to sea. It has two sections: one rustic with roughly hewn wooden furniture and basic seats and the other slightly more elegant with rattan furniture and a little more colour to it.
The restaurant sports overhead fans but is also well served by sea breezes and is so large that one thing is certain: you won’t get claustrophobic here. Krua Chao Baan’s kitchen turns out western breakfasts but generally otherwise concentrates on typical Thai dishes that are noticeably popular with both locals and visitors, which is an excellent sign.
Specialties here include plah nueng manao - steamed whole fish in lemon juice and hot chilies along with whole barbecued fish - both served with rice. Lovers of phad thai will be relieved to know that you can order it here while if coming in a group multiple orders are the way to go and then share the colourful and delicious dishes. Still, there is a slight sense of impersonality at this restaurant – in spite of its name which loosely translates to ‘The Kitchen House’ but the many diners who come here obviously and happily ignore this.
Décor is slightly schmaltzy but Krua Chao Baan has charming gardens. It’s ideal for large group dining.
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Rustic section of the restaurant -
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A restaurant right on the beach
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Charming and quiet area -
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View from the restaurant
Krua Chao Baan Restaurant
- Opening Hours: 10:00 – 22:00
- Location: Just south of Lamai on ring road
- Tel: 077 418 589
