Going on a holiday in Phuket? There are plenty of things to consider when planning your trip. What will the weather be like? Where do you stay? How do you get around? But, we’d argue that there’s one question that trumps all others: What’s for dinner? And where to eat in Phuket?
“Food is one of the main reasons for choosing Thailand as a destination. Even more remarkable, however, is the love for Thai food among the locals; Thais become just as excited as the visitors when faced with a bowl of well-prepared noodles.” — Lonely Planet Thailand
Thai food is a favorite around the world. Classic dishes include Pad Thai, red curry, tom yum soup, fried spring rolls, and mango sticky rice. Phuket is home to an excellent eating scene with something for all budgets, whether you want cheap and cheerful stir-fry noodles or luxurious lobsters and champagne.
If you’re looking for something a little different, there’s plenty in the way of world cuisine. From Italian to Israeli, you’ll find something to tickle your taste buds. Ready to dig in? Whether you dine in Phuket City Thailand or head off around the peninsular in search of great eats, use this list as food for thought!
Pad Thai Shop [$]
Looking for the best pad Thai in Phuket? Let your search begin and end at Pad Thai Shop in Ban Karon Village. Open since 2008, this modest restaurant has become a favorite with foodies visiting Phuket. Fresh noodles are wok-tossed with peanuts, spring onion, shrimp, tofu, and bean sprouts and eaten on plastic stools with hearty dollops of chilli. Served for a tiny price tag, neither your wallet nor your stomach will be empty after this meal!
Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand
Kan Eang@Pier [$$]
Wondering where to go in Phuket for fantastic food? Look no further than Kan Eang@Pier, one of the oldest restaurants in Phuket. This is one foodie spot that has truly stood the test of time, serving delicious Thai food to tourists and locals for 46 years and counting.
With outdoor seating and unrivalled ocean views, a meal at Eang@Pier is a feast for the senses as well as the stomach. Dine on freshly caught seafood including mantis prawns, rock lobster, and golden snapper, paired with typical local appetizers and spicy Thai salads.
44, หมู่ที่ 5, 1 ถนน วิเศษ Rawai, Muang, Phuket 83130, Thailand
Ka Jok See Restaurant [$$]
This cosy Thai eatery in Phuket is famous for all the right reasons. You won’t find infinity pools or fancy frills at Ka Jok See but you will find hearty Thai food made with fresh local ingredients.
Hidden away down a small alleyway, this restaurant’s reputation precedes it: even a few Thai celebrities and magazine editors have dined here! You’ll come for the food and stay for the atmosphere thanks to nightly music and entertainment. The only thing to worry about is getting a seat!
26 Takuapa Rd, Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
La Gritta [$$]
For the best Italian food in Phuket, don’t miss La Gritta. This stylish eatery has all the flavors of Italy, and a few well-renowned chefs to boot. From Italian meat and fresh antipasti sharers to handmade pasta and pizza, there are plenty of tantalizing options. The only thing sweeter than the tiramisu is the sunset view over Phuket Bay. Looking to impress a loved one? This is your spot! #romantic
2 Muen-ngern Road Beach Kathu Tambon Patong (Amari, Pa Tong, Kathu, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Project Artisan [$$]
For a hipster hang out that’ll banish any hangover, head over to Project Artisan. The dishes at this colorful cafe are healthy enough to cancel out several weeks of pad Thai – at least we’ll keep telling ourselves that! Serving smoothie bowls, deli sandwiches, and avocado brunches, Project Artisan has all your home comforts covered.
53/17 Moo.6, Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket 83110, Thailand
Sizzle Rooftop Restaurant [$$$]
Tasty food? Check. Fine wines? Check. Stunning views? Check. If you’re looking to escape the busy city of Phuket, there are few better places to do it than Sizzle Rooftop Restaurant which (unsurprisingly) is set up on a rooftop in the Phuket Hills. Tuck into seafood, steak, and dessert washed down with wines from around the world. With all the glamour of a Phuket beach resort, this spot is perfect for a night out.
39/9 Muen Ngern Road, Tri Trang Beach, Phuket, 83150, Thailand
Blue Elephant Phuket [$$$]
When we think of Asian cuisine, street food usually springs to mind. However, that’s not the case at Blue Elephant, an elegant eatery with Michelin status. This 100-year-old ex-governor’s house boasts colonial charm and decadent details fit for a king. Creative dishes like duck massaman and bamboo-steamed fish are paired with red and white wines… or why not sip on a signature cocktail?
96 Krabi, Talat Nuea, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
That’s a wrap! No Phuket Thailand holiday would be complete without some fantastic food after all. Let us know how you get on!
Want to know more about Phuket? Check out our Phuket City Guide. If you’re looking for a list of activities to do in Phuket, we’ve got a bunch of fun ones for you 😉
Featured image: @maribu8102
