Samui is well known for its coconuts, which are available everywhere and quite tasty. Being an island seafood is generally a good choice although in high season demand often exceeds local supply. The larger beaches have a number of international restaurants as well often run by Thai-farang couples with Bophut having a particularly good reputation.
Southern Thai food in general is renowned for its spiciness. Much of the cuisine has its origins in Malay, Indonesian and Indian food. Favourite dishes from the south include Indian-style Muslim curry massaman, rice noodles in fish curry sauce Khanom Jeen and chicken birayani. Popular local food are salted eggs and delicious rambutan, too.
Dual pricing is regrettably common: some restaurants have two menus, one for tourists and the other for Thai people, at about 1/4 of the foreigner prices. Main courses in a standard, low-key Thai restaurant should be under 100 baht except some seafood dishes, so if prices seem unreasonably steep, head elsewhere. Always check prices and menu first so you don't have to argue when the bill is served.
