Seafood on Koh Phi Phi: a guide to delicacies straight from the water
April 11, 2025
Koh Phi Phi, a picturesque island in Thailand, is not only a paradise for lovers of beautiful beaches and turquoise water, but also a veritable feast for seafood connoisseurs. Located in the Andaman Sea, this tropical gem offers an unforgettable culinary experience, which is an essential part of a trip to this Thai archipelago. The freshness of seafood delicacies, combined with traditional Thai spices and cooking techniques, creates unique flavor combinations that will delight even the most discerning guests. In this guide, we'll take you on a journey through the best places on Koh Phi Phi where you can enjoy seafood in a variety of guises. From simple beach bars serving freshly caught fish straight from the grill to elegant restaurants with panoramic sea views, each place has its own unique atmosphere and specialties. Whether you're a fan of classic pad thai with shrimp or prefer more refined dishes such as seafood curries, there's something for everyone on Koh Phi Phi. Get ready for a culinary adventure that will stimulate all your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories. We will discover together places where local chefs passionately prepare dishes using the secrets of Thai seafood cuisine passed down from generation to generation. You will learn not only about the flavors, but also about the culture and culinary traditions of the region, which are inextricably linked to the sea and its gifts.
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The best local seafood bars
We begin our culinary journey with the places that are the heart of the local food scene on Koh Phi Phi. It is here that you can get a true taste of the island and experience authentic Thai hospitality.
The first stop is 'Ae fish bbq', a true gem among local eateries. Located in the center of Phi Phi Don (exact address: Ko Phi Phi Don PQQC+QC9, Tambon Ao Nang, Amphoe Mueang Krabi, Chang Wat Krabi 81000), this small restaurant attracts tourists and locals alike. The restaurant's specialty is, as the name suggests, grilled fish, but the menu offers much more. Guests especially praise the pad thai, fish in chili and shrimp. Importantly, 'Ae fish bbq' is famous for its affordable prices and large portions. Of note is the tom yam soup, which according to reviews is one of the best on the island. The restaurant enjoys an impressive rating of 4.9, a testament to the consistently high quality of the dishes served.
Another place worth noting is 'Phi Phi Chill Lay Bar & Restaurant'. This restaurant, located on the beach (PQQC+GQ9, Ao Nang, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81000), offers not only delicious food, but also a relaxing atmosphere overlooking the sea. Fresh seafood is the restaurant's specialty, and guests especially recommend the tom yam soup and a variety of seafood dishes. The restaurant has a rating of 4.6, which confirms its good reputation among guests. It is worth noting that the place is known for its original decor - the walls are covered with signatures and wishes of guests from all over the world, which creates a unique atmosphere.
Last but not least in this category is 'Tom Yam Restaurant'. Located in the center of the island (125 114 Tambon Ao Nang, Amphoe Mueang Krabi, Chang Wat Krabi 81210), this restaurant specializes in classic Thai seafood dishes. Guests especially praise the pad thai, which some reviews say is one of the best on the island. The restaurant has a rating of 4.6, which attests to the high quality of the dishes served. Of note is a dish called 'pineapple with rice and seafood', which according to reviews is a true culinary discovery.
All these places have several things in common: freshness of ingredients, authenticity of flavors and affordable prices. These are ideal locations for those who want to experience the true flavors of Koh Phi Phi without straining the budget. Keep in mind, however, that due to the popularity of these places, you may sometimes have to wait a while for a table, especially during peak hours.
Elegant restaurants with sea views
For those looking for a slightly more refined dining experience, Koh Phi Phi Phi also offers elegant restaurants where you can enjoy exquisite seafood dishes in a unique setting.
Worth mentioning in the first place is 'ACQUA Restaurant Phi Phi'. This restaurant, located in the heart of the island (125/18, ตำบล อ่าวนาง อำเภอเมืองกระบี่ กระบี่ 81000), offers not only delicious food, but also unforgettable sea views. The restaurant's specialty is seafood dishes prepared according to original recipes. Guests especially praise the tuna steak, which many consider one of the best dishes on the island. The restaurant enjoys a high rating of 4.7, a testament to the consistently high quality of both food and service. It's worth noting that ACQUA Restaurant Phi Phi also offers a wide selection of wines that pair well with seafood dishes.
Another place worth noting is 'Malee Seafood'. Located a bit off the beaten path (Unnamed Rd Tambon Ao Nang, Amphoe Mueang Krabi, Chang Wat Krabi 81000), this family-run restaurant offers authentic Thai seafood dishes in a cozy atmosphere. The chef's specialties include fresh fish and seafood prepared according to traditional Thai recipes. Guests especially recommend the grilled shrimp and crab. The restaurant has a rating of 4.5, confirming its good reputation among guests. It is worth noting that Malee Seafood is famous for its large portions and affordable prices, making it an ideal place for families and groups of friends.
Both restaurants offer a unique dining experience, combining fresh seafood with elegant interiors and beautiful views. They are ideal places for a romantic dinner or special occasion. However, it is worth remembering that due to their popularity, especially in high season, it is recommended to book a table in advance.
When comparing these two restaurants, there are several aspects worth noting. ACQUA Restaurant Phi Phi offers a more refined menu and elegant interiors, which translates into slightly higher prices. This is an ideal place for those looking for a luxurious dining experience. Malee Seafood, on the other hand, while also offering quality dishes, has a more family atmosphere and slightly lower prices. It's a great choice for those who appreciate authenticity and a homey atmosphere.
In terms of availability, both restaurants are open daily, but ACQUA Restaurant Phi Phi may require advance reservations, especially during peak season. Malee Seafood usually has more free tables, but can also be crowded during dinner hours.
Whichever restaurant you choose, you can be sure you're in for an unforgettable dining experience that will live long in your memory.
Tayan seafood specialties and where to find them
Koh Phi Phi is not just a place to eat fresh seafood. It's also a great opportunity to experience traditional Thai dishes in which sea delicacies play a major role. In this section, we will focus on specific dishes and places where you can taste them.
Let's start with the classic pad thai with shrimp. This dish, a hallmark of Thai cuisine, gets a new dimension on Koh Phi Phi thanks to the freshness of local seafood. One place to enjoy delicious pad thai is the aforementioned 'Ae fish bbq'. Although this restaurant specializes in grilled fish, it also serves some of the best pad thai on the island. Guests especially praise the large, juicy shrimp and perfectly balanced sauce.
Another dish you must try on Koh Phi Phi is tom yam, a spicy and sour soup, often prepared with shrimp or other seafood. As the name suggests, 'Tom Yam Restaurant' is where this dish is a real hit. This restaurant, with a rating of 4.6, is famous for the authentic flavor and aromatic spices used to prepare the soup. You should also try their version with coconut milk, known as tom kha.
For curry lovers, Koh Phi Phi offers a wide variety of dishes in this category. Particularly recommended is the yellow shrimp curry, which can be found on the menu at 'Phi Phi Phi Chill Lay Bar & Restaurant'. This restaurant, with a rating of 4.6, serves a curry that guests describe as an "explosion of flavors. The combination of creamy coconut milk, aromatic spices and fresh seafood creates a harmonious composition that will satisfy even the most demanding palates.
If you are looking for something truly unique, you should pay attention to the dish 'pineapple with rice and seafood' served at 'Tom Yam Restaurant'. This original combination of the sweetness of pineapple with spicy seafood and aromatic rice has won the hearts of many guests and has become one of the most recommended dishes on the island.
For those who prefer the simplicity and pure taste of seafood, 'Malee Seafood' offers a wide selection of fresh fish and seafood prepared on the grill. Particularly recommended here are the tiger shrimp and squid, which are served with simple but intense flavorful sauces.
It's worth remembering that most restaurants on Koh Phi Phi adjust the level of spiciness of dishes according to guests' preferences. If you are not used to spicy food, you can always ask for a milder version of a dish.
All in all, each of the listed restaurants offers a unique dining experience, combining the freshness of local seafood with traditional Thai recipes. Whether you choose a simple eatery on the beach or an elegant restaurant overlooking the sea, you can be sure that you are in for a true feast for the senses. Remember that the key to fully appreciating Koh Phi Phi's cuisine is to be open to new flavors and be willing to experiment. Bon appétit, or as the Thais say - ทานให้อร่อยนะคะ (than hai aroi na kha)!
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