The best Italian restaurants on Koh Tao — Thaita, La Pizzeria da Claudio, Portobello, The French Market and Gambero Rosso Andrea — with standout dishes, prices and booking tips.
1 March 2025 · updated 6 January 2026 · by Bryan Roseman
Key takeaways
- Thaita Italian Restaurant is a must-visit for its authentic Italian dishes, homemade pasta and romantic setting.
- La Pizzeria da Claudio is famous for its traditional pizzas and budget-friendly prices.
- The French Market offers a unique blend of French and Italian cuisine, including fresh pastries and breakfast choices.
- Portobello Bistro stands out with its varied menu and is great for both casual dining and special occasions.
- Visiting during off-peak hours improves your dining experience and helps you get a seat at these popular places.
This island, renowned for its beautiful underwater world and lively nightlife, also offers some of the finest Italian gastronomic experiences in Thailand. Whether you’re a fan of pasta or a pizza aficionado, Koh Tao provides a delightful taste of Italy that you’ll definitely want to try.
As you wander around the island, you’ll realise that Italian food here isn’t just about the food — it’s about the whole experience. From the cosy, welcoming ambiance to the carefully prepared dishes, each restaurant brings a touch of Italy to this tropical paradise. Let’s delve into what makes Koh Tao a must-see destination for lovers of Italian cuisine.
In the world of Italian cuisine, authenticity is everything, and the Italian restaurants in Koh Tao have it in spades. The chefs at these establishments go out of their way to use fresh ingredients, many of them locally sourced, to create dishes that are both tasty and true to their origins. Whether it’s handmade pasta or wood-fired pizza, every dish is a tribute to the rich culinary heritage of Italy.
The atmosphere of these restaurants is also a big part of why they’re so popular. The mix of delicious food and a beautiful setting makes eating at these places an experience you won’t forget. If you’re after a truly memorable night out, you might also want to explore some of the fine dining restaurants in Koh Tao.
With the scene set, let’s dive into some of the best Italian eateries you must try on Koh Tao. Each of these spots has its own unique appeal and specialities, so there’s something for every taste.
Thaita Italian Restaurant is a charming establishment that is Italian-owned and operated. Their commitment to authentic Italian cooking shines through in every meal they prepare. The menu offers a variety of traditional dishes, from homemade pasta to delicious risottos, each made with meticulous attention to detail.
Thaita is known for its romantic ambiance. The cosy environment makes it a perfect place for couples to have a special night. Whether you’re having a filling lasagna or a light tiramisu, the experience is bound to be memorable. My choice here is their spinach ravioli.
One guest put it this way: “The dishes were beautifully presented and incredibly delicious! Thaita on Koh Tao is a great spot for an Italian experience in the heart of the tropics!”
La Pizzeria da Claudio in Koh Tao offers a taste of Italy in paradise. Known for its authentic and traditional Italian pizzas, this restaurant uses fresh ingredients and traditional techniques to create delicious thin-crust pizzas with a variety of toppings.
Beyond pizza, they also offer a selection of other Italian favourites, such as pasta dishes and salads. With a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, La Pizzeria da Claudio is a comfortable setting for a casual meal with friends or family. Whether you’re craving a classic Margherita or something more adventurous, this pizzeria is a great option for satisfying your Italian food cravings on Koh Tao. My favourite is their beef carpaccio.
Portobello Restaurant in Koh Tao offers a diverse Mediterranean menu, with something for everyone. While not exclusively vegetarian, Portobello features a dedicated selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes alongside its broader offerings.
Known for its relaxed atmosphere and friendly service, it’s a comfortable spot for a casual meal. Whether you’re in the mood for Mediterranean favourites or are specifically looking for plant-based options, Portobello provides a variety of choices in a welcoming setting. I recommend their Bolognese calzone.
While The French Market in Koh Tao is known for its French cuisine, it also boasts a fantastic selection of Italian dishes, particularly its pizzas. They are among the best you will find on Koh Tao, made with a thin crust and topped with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Beyond the classic Margherita, they offer a range of creative and flavourful combinations, often incorporating French, Italian and Thai influences. My favourite pizza is the Diavola.
Alongside their pizzas, The French Market also serves other Italian favourites, such as pasta dishes and fresh salads. The combination of authentic Italian flavours, quality ingredients and the charming bistro atmosphere makes The French Market a delightful spot for a delicious meal on Koh Tao.
Gambero Rosso Andrea in Koh Tao offers a delightful Italian dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood and authentic flavours. While specific menu items may vary, you can generally expect a selection of classic Italian dishes, including pasta, pizza and seafood specialities.
Given its name, seafood is a prominent feature, with dishes such as mussels, seafood pasta and squid. The restaurant uses great-quality fresh ingredients, aiming to provide a genuine taste of Italy in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Every Italian restaurant on Koh Tao offers something special, both in terms of cuisine and overall ambiance. While they all share a dedication to genuine Italian flavours, their individual specialities and settings make each of them unique. Let’s explore why each of these eateries is worth a visit.
Here are some of my favourite dishes that I would recommend to anyone:
Thaita Italian Restaurant is known for its homemade ravioli, filled with a delicious mix of ricotta and spinach and topped with a hearty tomato sauce. This dish is a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to using only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients to create memorable flavours.
La Pizzeria da Claudio is famous for its wood-fired pizzas, particularly the traditional Margherita, which features a flawless blend of mozzarella, basil and tomato. The restaurant also serves a great selection of pasta, gnocchi and salads.
While The French Market is best known for its French food, it also serves up some delicious Italian dishes. You have to try the bruschetta, topped with ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, especially when it’s served with their freshly baked bread.
Portobello’s pizzas are a very close second to The French Market’s. I always go for the Diavola pizza or the Bolognese calzone. Plus, for every pizza you buy you get a coupon, and 10 coupons get you a free pizza! Nowhere else does this on Koh Tao.
Gambero Rosso Andrea’s tomato mussels are to die for: fresh mussels cooked in a rich and flavourful tomato marinara sauce.
When eating out in Koh Tao, it’s worth keeping value in mind. Thaita Italian Restaurant is a moderately priced establishment, with the majority of meals costing between 250 and 500 baht. The superior quality of the food and the elegant ambiance make it well worth the price.
If you’re looking for delicious pizza without breaking the bank, La Pizzeria da Claudio is the place to go. With pizzas starting at only 240 baht, it’s a great option for travellers on a budget.
The French Market is in a similar price range to Thaita, with dishes ranging from 200 to 450 baht. Given the unique fusion of flavours and the quality of the ingredients, diners find the prices reasonable for the experience.
Portobello offers mid-range prices in a pleasant, relaxed atmosphere, making it a comfortable option for diners seeking a good-value meal with plenty of choice; pasta dishes start at 240 baht.
Gambero Rosso Andrea sits in the mid-to-upper price range on Koh Tao, reflecting its focus on fresh seafood and quality Italian ingredients, with pasta dishes starting at 260 baht.
When dining out during the busy season, it’s a good idea to make a reservation. You can book a table at most Koh Tao restaurants on Facebook or over the phone. A quick call or message ensures you have a place to sit and lets you concentrate on your dinner.
Visiting in the off-peak season might make it easier to get a table without a reservation. However, it’s still a good idea to call ahead, especially if you have a large party or specific dietary requirements. If you want to explore more culinary options, take a look at the fine dining restaurants in Koh Tao.
Eating at Italian restaurants in Koh Tao is not just about the food; it’s about the whole experience, blending the finest Italian cooking traditions with the magical setting of a tropical island. As soon as you enter these restaurants, you feel the welcoming, friendly atmosphere Italy is renowned for, making every mouthful feel like a journey to Italy itself.
It’s always a good idea to check the reviews on Google or TripAdvisor to get a better idea of where you want to go.
To sum it up, Koh Tao is home to a lively and varied Italian food scene that appeals to all sorts of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a die-hard food lover or just want to savour a tasty meal in a lovely environment, the island’s Italian eateries guarantee an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.
So bring your appetite and start a tasty journey through Koh Tao’s Italian restaurants, where the flavour of Italy is waiting for you in the beautiful setting of Thailand’s tropical paradise.
La Pizzeria da Claudio is a top pick for families. The relaxed setting and budget-friendly menu make it an inviting place for people of all ages, and the wide selection of pizzas and pastas guarantees that everyone will find something they love.
Definitely, especially if you're visiting in peak season. A reservation ensures you get a table at your chosen restaurant — particularly at well-known places such as Thaita Italian Restaurant.
If you plan ahead, your meal will go off without a hitch and you won't have to worry about long waits or missed chances.
A lot of Italian restaurants on Koh Tao cater to vegans. Thaita Italian Restaurant has a few vegan-friendly pasta dishes, and La Pizzeria da Claudio can make their pizzas vegan if you ask. Don't be afraid to ask the staff for vegan options or modifications — you can also check the menu online or call ahead. With a little communication, you'll find these restaurants are more than willing to cater to your dietary preferences. For more dining options, see the fine dining restaurants on Koh Tao.
You can look forward to a variety of genuine Italian cuisine featuring traditional favourites as well as regional dishes. From handcrafted ravioli and risottos to wood-fired pizzas and decadent tiramisu, the menus are designed to take your palate straight to Italy. These classics are joined by seasonal specials that showcase local produce, offering an original spin on time-honoured recipes and a dining experience that's always fresh and exciting.
Most Italian restaurants in Koh Tao have a laid-back dress code in keeping with the island's easy-going vibe. That said, lean towards smart-casual if you're planning to eat at fancier places like Thaita Italian Restaurant. Beach attire is fine almost everywhere during the day, but it's a good idea to dress up a little in the evening, especially at the island's fine dining restaurants.
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