Saffron was already a popular restaurant by the time I discovered it back in 2006. Back then Ting, the previous owner, was running it more as a way to rehabilitate from a near death car accident than anything. Cooking and serving food got her up and moving about and you did feel sorry for her as she hobbled around. However, that was years ago. Since then the restaurant has changed hands and the new owners are doing a decent job at keeping the place to the same high standards and with a similar menu to the one diners have known and loved for many years..
This is one of the two places that I often recommend to people visiting the island if they want a laid back restaurant by the sea for a quiet meal. Finding good food isn’t difficult on the island. But finding it away from the busy main road, with a view and without hoards of fellow diners is. Being by the sea in a tropical garden , away from the main road makes Saffron a great spot for a quiet meal. Saffron isn’t within walking distance of large resorts so getting a table usually isn’t a problem.
Itis a bit more expensive than many restaurants but the portion size is large and food is always well presented and cooked using fresh ingredients, and with just the right amount of herbs & spices. Although maybe a little bland if you’re expecting the same level of spiciness you’d get at a more local restaurant.
They also have a decent cocktail list and don’t skimp on the booze. If you are used to getting watery, weak concoctions then these will knock you out. A couple of Long Island Ice Tea’s are all you need.
The restaurant occupies a corner of a small bungalow resort which has a handful of good value rooms, so if you’re a real foodie you could stay and eat every meal there. I’ve never been for breakfast but apparently it’s well worth trying.
Price: $$ – $$$
Photos:
Location: Inland side of the road on Pearl beach, which lies midway between the north end of Klong Prao beach and White Sand beach. Take the concrete access road road signposted to Saffron and also ‘Budget Apartments’ between a block of shophouses and Keereeta Resort
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.
Thanks Louise. Good to hear you enjoyed it. :-)
Lovely place, delicious food, pleasant music, friendly staff. Maybe a bit too quiet, but could be the (Tue.) evening? Loved the fried tofu salad. All in all i’d recommend it too. Thanks, Ian
Wonderful restaurant. Saffron on the Sea was my favourite place to eat whilst on Koh Chang last month. The Banana Flower salad is one of my all time top dishes from any cuisine. If only all Thai food had this combination of flavor and presentation instead of being reliant on chilies.