Koh Tao may be a small island, but it’s packed with well-loved favourites that make their way onto every travel blog and Instagram feed. Places like Duck 995 and Barracuda Rooftop are famous for good reason—their food and vibes are top-notch. But once you’ve ticked those off your list, what’s next? This article is for the adventurers, the foodies, and the curious souls who want to go just a little deeper. Here are some of Koh Tao’s true hidden gems—the kind of places locals love, and most tourists never find. Thipwimarn Café For a truly unique coffee experience, head to Thipwimarn Café, tucked away in the south of the island. This charming spot is accessed through a lush greenhouse filled with tropical plants and succulents, making your arrival feel like stepping into a secret garden. Once inside, you’ll find a tranquil café serving excellent coffee, fresh bakery treats, and panoramic views overlooking the ocean. It’s the perfect hidden escape for a slow morning or a peaceful afternoon break. Love Koh Tao Viewpoint Perched high in the hills and overlooking the lush eastern side of the island, Love Koh Tao is a peaceful escape with panoramic views you won’t forget. It’s a bit tricky to get to (a scooter is your best bet), but once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by open-air seating, fresh coconuts, and one of the best sunrise spots on the island. Lebowski Restaurant, Chalok Tucked away in Chalok, Lebowski is a cozy, no-frills restaurant serving authentic Catalan cuisine that’ll surprise you. Run by a passionate chef from Catalunya, it’s a warm, unpretentious space where every dish is made from scratch. Expect Spanish favourites like bomba, tortilla, and rich, home-style stews you won’t find anywhere else on the island. Biryani Rice Restaurant This one is easy to miss—just a tiny Thai-style eatery with plastic stools and a faded sign, you can find it opposite Diza Bar on the Sairee walking street. But the food? Legendary. The crispy pork and succulent chicken served on fragrant yellow biryani rice is a local favourite. Don’t forget to ask for the green chilli sauce on the side—spicy, zesty, and absolutely addictive. The Soup Guy A true local legend, the Soup Guy roams Koh Tao with his mobile food cart, serving up boat noodle soup that is rich, aromatic, and unforgettable. He’s got a bit of a routine, often found on the main road near Mae Haad or Sairee early to mid afternoon—but you might have to ask around or go on a little adventure to track him down. Look for the guy with the turban. Pro tip: when he runs out of soup, he just goes home, so don’t be late! Joe Pork Leg If you’re craving comforting Thai food done right, Joe Pork Leg is a must-try. This humble spot specializes in slow-cooked pork leg so tender it practically melts in your mouth. Served with noodles, on rice, or—highly recommended—in a rich, fragrant broth, it’s a dish that hits the soul. Simple, authentic, and deeply satisfying. Serve Chilled – Rooftop Cocktail Bar In Mae Haad, down a narrow alley you’d likely overlook, you’ll find the entrance to Serve Chilled—a rooftop cocktail bar with serious charm. The drinks here are made with love, creativity, and top-quality ingredients. Combine that with a breezy terrace and a view over the bay, and you’ve got one of Koh Tao’s best-kept secrets for sunset sips. Local Thai Breakfast: Patonko & Porridge in Chalok For a real taste of Thai island life, head to the 7-Eleven in Chalok early in the morning. Across the street, look for the sign that says Patonko—that’s where you’ll find deep-fried doughy bites, crisp on the outside and soft in the middle. Buy a bag, then step next door and ask the friendly lady for her pork or chicken porridge. It’s warm, hearty, and one of the most authentic (and affordable) breakfasts you can find on Koh Tao. Final ThoughtsIt’s easy to fall in love with the popular spots on Koh Tao, but sometimes it’s the unexpected places—the little food stalls, the hidden trails, the quiet viewpoints—that leave the biggest impression. Whether you’re here for diving, sunsets, or street food adventures, take the time to seek out the island’s hidden gems. You’ll find that Koh Tao has even more heart, flavour, and soul than you imagined.Get in touch