Start our culinary adventure with a visit to Yawee Restaurant, a true gem among local eateries. Located on the main road in Sala Dan, this unassuming restaurant hides the true treasures of Thai cuisine. Yawee is famous for its excellent pad thai, which many guests say is the best on the entire island. The secret lies in the perfectly balanced sauce, crunchy nuts and fresh bean sprouts. Another menu hit is the green curry with shrimp, which impresses with its intensity of flavor and delicacy of texture.

Yawee Restaurant is a place where quality goes hand in hand with affordable prices. Most dishes cost under 100 baht, making it an ideal option for travelers on a tight budget. Look out for promotional sets that allow you to try several different dishes at an attractive price.

Moving on, the Same Same But Different Restaurant is not to be missed. Located on Long Beach, this charming diner offers not only delicious food, but also breathtaking views of the sea. The restaurant's specialty is seafood, and we especially recommend the grilled shrimp in lime and chili sauce. The freshness of the ingredients and the skill of the chefs make each dish a small work of art.

Same But Different also stands out for its extensive cocktail selection. An ideal choice for a hot afternoon would be the refreshing Mango Passion Fruit, which pairs perfectly with the spicy food. Prices at this restaurant are slightly higher than at typical local eateries, but this is compensated for by the quality of the food and the unforgettable atmosphere.

For those looking for a truly authentic experience, we recommend a visit to Thai Cat Restaurant. This family-run pub, run passionately by locals, offers dishes prepared according to traditional recipes. Be sure to try Tom Yum here, a spicy soup that is the hallmark of Thai cuisine. The aromatic broth with lemongrass, galangal and kaffir leaves is a true explosion of flavors.

Thai Cat Restaurant is also a great place to enjoy local delicacies such as Som Tam (green papaya salad) and Laab (spicy meat salad). Prices are very affordable and the portions will satisfy even the hungriest guests. As an added bonus, the owners can be seen playing with the restaurant's resident cats, which adds to the place's unique charm.

Continuing our journey through the flavors of Koh Lanta, we can't leave out L.Maladee Restaurant - a true paradise for seafood lovers. This charming diner, located right on the beach, is famous for its excellent quality fresh fish and shellfish. Every morning, the owners personally select the best specimens at the local fish market, so guests can be sure that real sea delicacies are landing on their plates.

L.Maladee's specialty is fish in sauce with garlic and pepper, a dish that delights with its simplicity and intensity of flavor. Fresh fish (usually seabass or red snapper) is gently grilled and served with an aromatic sauce that enhances its natural flavor. For more discerning palates, we recommend lobster in curry - a luxurious dish that combines the delicacy of seafood with the spicy depth of Thai curry.

L.Maladee stands out not only for its excellent food, but also for its unique atmosphere. The restaurant is located on the beach, allowing guests to enjoy their meal to the sound of the waves and with a view of the setting sun. Prices are a bit higher than in the average local pubs, but the quality of the food fully compensates for this.

For those looking for a slightly more elegant dining experience, Fresh Restaurant (Sriraya Lanta) is the ideal choice. Built on stilts over the water, this stylish restaurant offers unforgettable views and an equally impressive menu. Fresh Restaurant is known for its creative approach to traditional Thai cuisine, combining local flavors with modern culinary techniques.

One of the hits on the menu is the Massaman Curry with lamb, a dish that impresses with the depth of flavor and tenderness of the meat. You should also try grilled squid stuffed with ground chicken - an original combination of flavors that is sure to surprise even the most demanding gourmets. Fresh Restaurant also offers a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options, making it ideal for guests with different dietary preferences.

Prices at Fresh Restaurant are higher than at typical local eateries, but guests can expect a unique dining experience and an unforgettable atmosphere. This is the perfect place for a romantic dinner or special occasion.

For more affordable options, don't miss the local food markets and street food. Koh Lanta offers many opportunities to sample authentic Thai delicacies straight from the street stalls. We especially recommend visiting the Sala Dan night market, where you can find a wide selection of local specialties.

At the market you should try such delicacies as Moo Ping (grilled pork skewers), Kai Jeow (Thai omelet) or Roti (thin pancakes served sweet or salty). It's here that you can feel the true pulse of the local cuisine and taste dishes that you can hardly find in tourist-oriented restaurants.

To sum up our culinary journey on Koh Lanta, it's worth comparing the restaurants discussed to help you choose the perfect place for your preferences and budget.

Yawee Restaurant stands out for its excellent value for money. It's the perfect place for those looking for the authentic flavors of Thai cuisine without straining their wallets. Most dishes cost under 100 baht, making Yawee the most affordable option among the restaurants discussed. The downside may be the plain decor and lack of a sea view, but it makes up for it with the quality of the food.

Same But Different Restaurant offers slightly higher prices, but in return guests receive not only delicious meals, but also a unique atmosphere and views of the beach. It's a good choice for couples looking for a romantic dinner or for those who want to combine a meal with relaxing on the beach. However, it's worth remembering that it can get quite crowded during peak season.

Thai Cat Restaurant is the quintessential local, family-run business. The prices are moderate and the atmosphere is very familiar. It's an ideal place for those who want to get a real feel for Koh Lanta and interact with the locals. The downside may be the limited menu, but each dish is prepared with passion and according to traditional recipes.

L.Maladee Restaurant is a paradise for seafood lovers. Prices are higher than in average local eateries, but the quality and freshness of the ingredients fully justify it. It's a great choice for a special occasion or for those who want to try the best seafood delicacies on the island. However, it's worth checking prices in advance, especially for lobster or larger fish.

Fresh Restaurant (Sriraya Lanta) represents the highest price point among the places discussed, but it also offers the most elaborate dishes and a luxurious atmosphere. It is an ideal place for a romantic dinner or a business meeting. However, it is worth remembering that prices can be up to several times higher than in local pubs.

When choosing a place to dine, consider not only the price, but also the location, atmosphere and type of cuisine. Yawee and Thai Cat are ideal for an everyday lunch or dinner, Same Same But Different will work well for a relaxing meal overlooking the beach, L.Maladee is a must-visit for seafood lovers, and Fresh Restaurant is the choice for those looking for a top-notch culinary experience.

Whichever restaurant you choose, remember that Koh Lanta cuisine is not just about food - it's a true cultural experience. Every meal is an opportunity to learn about local traditions, connect with locals and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this beautiful island. Enjoy your meal!