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The Royal Court records that some 300 families settled on Koh Phangan during the early 1900s and were engaged in fishing and other farming as their main source of business. In the Gulf, you can find mackerel, barracuda, trevally, pomfret, shark, long-tail tuna, Black marlin, sailfish, rainbow runner, cobia, rays, various snappers and many different groupers. King mackerel and squid are the most important commercial fish in this area.
At night you are sure to notice the far off green lights littering the ocean line out at sea, these are squid boats. The method of catching the squid is called jigging, this works by dropping unbaited metal jig lures into the sea. The squid attack these lures and become entangled in the spikes allowing the squid to be brought on board. This kind of fishing can be done on an small scale basis by inshore fishermen working from small boats. They always fish at night and utilise a system of lights on their ships which attracts the nocturnal night squid towards the jigs they have in the water. It is rumoured that here in the Gulf of Thailand there are so many squid fishing vessels that these alien lights are visible from space!
You will find a delicious array of dishes with squid on the island, from dried at the pier to snack on to chilli fried at a local restaurant and more exotic at fine dining establishments.
Fishing on Koh Phangan is a favourite holiday game for many. Fishing is enjoyed by both adults and youth, and catching a large fish gives a special joy. You will see sea fishing enthusiasts throughout the day during the high tides on the rugged coasts of the island. In addition to coastal fishing, fishing boats for fishermen with all abilities are offered on the island. The types of fishing used varied: flipping, jigging, trolling, bottom, submerged, etc You can totally relax and dive into a beautiful tranquil environment on a fishing trip. A feeling of harmony with nature does not go anywhere for a minute when fishing. Both locals and visitors are addicted to fishing in Koh Phangan. At fishing tackle stores on the island, fishing tackle can be bought from the most inexpensive to the most costly. The unpredictability of the results is the key highlight of Phangan's fishing: the capture is still a surprise, so what sorts of fish are captured. For bait, tiny pieces of shrimp (fresh or frozen) are typically acquired for larger species.
The wonderful thing about Koh Phangan and most of Thailand is that any dish can become a seafood dish. From basic fried rice with prawns and any curry can have an ingredient from the sea.
You can find seafood everywhere from the cheap family run local places to high-end restaurants, and in every area of Koh Phangan.
DAO by Chef Nir Mesika adds a new level of sophistication to Koh Phangan's seafood dining scene. Known for its exquisite 10-course tasting menu, DAO takes inspiration from the Mediterranean and Middle East, bringing flavors of Israel, Italy, and France to the island. Each dish incorporates the freshest local seafood, transforming ingredients like squid, snapper, and king mackerel into gourmet experiences. The restaurant’s intimate 16-seat setting is perfect for diners seeking a high-end culinary journey, blending global culinary influences with local catches.
Chef Nir, with experience from fine dining establishments in New York and Tel Aviv, brings his expertise and passion to DAO, making it a must-visit for seafood lovers. The chef’s table-style seating allows guests to enjoy a personal and curated meal, with each dish showcasing Chef Nir's creative vision. DAO is ideal for those looking for an extraordinary seafood experience that balances the island's local flavors with international flair.
A very well-known French-style restaurant in Hin Kong with also a plethora of beautiful wines. They offer a menu with traditional French dishes but also Thai food with fish such as lemongrass prawns, tuna tartare, seafood and other fish, All the dishes come with fresh bread delivered daily.
Their concept is all about local produce and Thai family practices at the Fisherman's Restaurant, delivered with a modern touch. Creator and Head Chef Khun Thanaporn, known as Lek on the island, was born into a local Baan Tai fishing family and, when he was only three years old, made his first expedition on a long tail cruise. Lek designed the restaurant on an idyllic beachfront starting in 2007, utilizing natural materials and turning his family's fishing boats into seats. The unique setting, gentle lighting, and rustic architecture create a comfortable and pleasant atmosphere that calms the senses and perfectly complements the food. Lek succeeded in developing an authentic, memorable dining experience with the continuous help of his Irish partner, Amanda. They express their passion for food and beverages served with absolute integrity, with service and decor to fit, a must-try on Koh Phangan.
A beautiful open beach club with a lawn, huge pool and sandy shore makes Infinity the perfect place to enjoy seafood. Modern fusion style food awaits you and can be nice for a romantic dinner or with friends.
Situated on the beach of the resort they have great quality seafood dishes and delicious seafood platters for sharing. With a variety of snappers, king prawns, squid, and more, you may pick what you want to consume and then the chef will barbecue and prepare it for you.
The menu is inspired by their Italian roots and passion for travelling! They put a personal twist on classic dishes including many seafood and fish delights.
Phangan Cove is a beautiful resort placed on the glorious west side of the island in Sri Thanu village. There you can enjoy perfect golden sandy beaches, wonderful accommodation and service along with owner Eiu's famous cuisine including their special seafood dishes!
Gorgeous seafood with something for all, a decent-sized menu and a nice setting right by the sea. The staff are very helpful and provide you with a comfortable service while dining on the beach, perfect for enjoying the ocean’s bounty.
It is always a great sign for food when you see the locals eating in a restaurant here in Thailand, you know its authentic. This is the case for one of our favourite Thai restaurants here, Nong View in Baan Kai, it is very popular among ex-pats, local Thai people and tourists too. Nong View has a BBQ with fresh fish such as squid, prawns, fish and crab. All are cooked by Yemsee and her skilled staff and live up to the already famous reputation of all other dishes.
This is definitely an island jewel and certainly, the building is most special to any other Thai restaurant, you do not feel as though you are on Koh Phangan when you are treated to a lovely sturdy wooden table and bench rather than the usual plastic one.
The food is more traditional Isaan style and very good, full of a delicate but intense flavour with a sincere touch, ideal for a few friends to enjoy.
For the most affordable Seafood, you must try Panthip in Thong Sala. Popular with every visitor, you may already be familiar with this as a place to grab meals. Here you will find fish snacks as well as curries and rice for very cheap, from 40 Baht upwards.
Close to Panthip but more recently opened, it offers similar style to Panthip but with more sit down option style meals.
How else to describe this umbrella to incorporate the laid back eateries dotted all around Thailand? Once you get familiar and regular with one, you usually get to know the owner or chef who will tell you to call her Mama. The places are the ones with bamboo furniture and no frills half outdoors, they’re some of the best thai food in general.
What better place to taste fresh seafood than on this island surrounded by beautiful ocean? A place where you can find fish of all kinds, different types of dishes and for any budget.
Fish is a primary part of the diet here so to be eating seafood or immersing yourself with fishing is a no brainer.
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