About Us
True Italian Flavors
Tropical Vibes
Italian Owned
& Managed
Gusto Italiano is steered by an all-Italian team. Proudly owned and run by Roberta and Marco (founders). With Giovanni working as Restaurant Manager, and the kitchen under the masterful direction of Head Chef Gianluca. Every guest is welcomed as part of our extended family. By blending the soul of genuine Italian cuisine with the enchanting tropical vibes of Fisherman’s Village Walking St., we offer a table for every occasion, from lively gatherings with friends and cherished family events to the most intimate romantic dinners by the sea.
Our History
Established in 2013 with the opening of our premier beachfront Restaurant, our journey expanded in 2022 with the addition of our vibrant Bistro right next door. Throughout our history, Gusto Italiano has remained steadfastly dedicated to the preservation of traditional Italian culinary heritage. In a world of evolving trends, we remain devoted exclusively to authentic Italian cuisine, free from fusion influences, focusing exclusively on the purity and depth of true Italian flavors.
The Team
Roberta, Founder
Born in Milan, Roberta came to hospitality from her former career in education and corporate training, which is where she learned to manage and organise people.
In 2009 she moved to Koh Samui to join Marco and start her career in the hospitality industry. For Roberta, hospitality comes down to people: welcoming them, looking after them, and creating an evening they remember.
Marco, Founder
Born in Bologna, Marco came to Koh Samui on holiday in 1990, fell in love with the island and stayed. Over the years he founded and ran several restaurants across Chaweng and Bophut.
Gusto Italiano represents the compendium of Marco’s decades of experience in the industry. For Marco, hospitality is about perpetuating the excellence of the Italian culinary heritage by providing his guests with the finest dining experience.
Gianluca, Head Chef
Born in Turin, Gianluca learned the foundations of regional Italian cooking in his grandfather's trattoria, developing his crafts in restaurants' kitchens across Piedmont and Liguria.
He moved to Thailand in 1995, working in Phuket before joining Gusto Italiano as Head Chef in 2015. Gianluca is esteemed by all in the team as his contribution is instrumental to Gusto's success.
Giovanni, Restaurant Manager
Born in Rome, Giovanni started his career in hospitality in London. In 2016, he moved to Thailand, where he has kept building his skills as a Restaurant Manager ever since.
He joined the Gusto Italiano team in May 2026, bringing with him his genuine Roman hospitality, international experience and strong passion for creating a welcoming and memorable experience for every guest. His energy and natural approach to hospitality are now an integral part of the Gusto Italiano family.
Handmade Pasta Made Every Morning
Our pasta is made in-house, the way it is made in Italian homes. Ravioli, tagliatelle, tagliolini, pappardelle and potato gnocchi run on the menu daily, alongside specials that change day to day. At the centre of it is our green Lasagna alla Bolognese, straight out of Bologna’s own tradition.
Every morning our pasta chef makes the dough at the front of the restaurant, in the open, where you can watch it happen on your way past. It is genuine and made for our restaurant only. A tradition you can taste, and one you can watch being made.
The Finest Ingredients From Italy
The clearest proof of what a kitchen stands for comes from its shelves, here are some of ours.
From the cheese and salumi counter: Parmigiano Reggiano DOP, Mozzarella di Bufala Campana DOP, Prosciutto Crudo di Parma aged 24 months, Taleggio Lombardo DOP, Speck Alto Adige IGP, Mortadella Bolognese and Pecorino al Tartufo. On the pizza, Soresina Fior di Latte and San Marzano tomatoes.
From the cellar: Brunello di Montalcino, Tignanello, Ornellaia, Barolo and Amarone, alongside Peroni and Baladin, and Illy for the coffee.
These are not decorations on a menu. They are some of the most prestigious products Italy has to offer, and we are proud to serve them and guarantee a true Italian dining experience.
Before You Come
Parking, booking, cards, gluten free and the other questions we answer every day are on our frequently asked questions (FAQs).