Pepenero

Pepenero has been one of Samui's most recommended restaurants for over a decade, a small, personal place in Maenam run by Milan-born chef Alain Di Tomaso and maître Paolo Migliorini. The cooking draws on both northern and southern Italy, with an emphasis on handmade pasta, risotto and seafood.

Let the team guide you through the daily specials, and pair dinner with something from the list of around 70 wines, which includes some serious Italian bottles. Al fresco tables add to the relaxed, grown-up mood.

It is a favourite for couples and food lovers looking for genuine Italian hospitality away from the busier east coast. Dinner only, closed on Sundays; booking by WhatsApp is advised.