Koh Chang’s Coolest Coffeeshop
Since it’s opening in October 2019, Le Jao Jom has proved to be an extremely popular spot for a locals and visitors alike. Partly because it’s the most instagram friendly coffee shop on the island, and partly because of the laid back atmosphere and delicious food and drinks.
The bistro itself isn’t visible from the main road. A large, easy to spot black sign, points the way down a concrete access road which zig zags past a tall hedge to the car park. From there, you enter the bistro through a small Japanese garden. Le JaoJom is in a prime seafront location. Between the sea and the restaurant is a large garden area with several day beds, complete with sun shade. These are very popular late afternoon and early evening when people come for a sunset drink.
The building itself is a large thatched roof bamboo structure. This is split into two parts, a section with covered outdoor seating and another with air-conditioning. The walls are all glass, so inside is bright and airy. Decor is rather shiny, with the main feature being the ceiling which is adorned with gold paper parasols. Other noteworthy features include two TVs playing street scenes from Japanese cities and a display of fluffy handbags which are also for sale.
Before going in visitors remove their shoes and borrow pair of slippers which are on a long shoe rack at the entrance. Seating used to be on the floor – in traditional Japanese style, but over the years the floor cushions have been replaced with more sensible tables. Likewise the fan cooled area has had an upgrade and the entire building is airconditioned.
The menu used to comprise of a simple choice of smoothies and coffee plus a selection of home made cakes and Movenpick ice cream. But this too has had an upgrade and meals are also on offer. Most have a Japanese twist – in keeping with the overall theme of the restaurant. There’s also a range of cocktails & beers.
Prices appear expensive at first. But you are paying for quality and also quantity. The smoothies are huge and full of fruit. The cakes are also served with an attention to presentation that isn’t often found on Koh Chang. And the coffee is delicious.
As well as being a laid back spot to escape the heat and enjoy the sea views. It’s a great spot for people watching. As Le Jaojom has become a ‘must visit’ location on the island among trendy Thai tourists who’ll happily an hour photographing everything themselves and everything they eat and drink.
Open daily. From 10:00 to 18:00
Price: $$ – $$$
Photos:
Location: On the main road, midway between White Sand beach and Pearl beach.
These restaurant reviews are just my thoughts on a place at the time I visited. I’ll mention if I know the owner well or get any freebies. But for the most of the time I am happy to play tourist and don’t mention this site at all. Obviously it isn’t possible to sample every dish on the menu and the type of food you have for lunch will differ to evening. In addition, owners and more importantly chefs, can change and your experience may differ from mine. If it does, post a comment below.
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