Best Restaurants in Phuket 2024
Phuket, the crown jewel of Thailand’s islands, is famous for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a food scene that’s as diverse as its visitors. Whether you're a food connoisseur or just someone who loves a good meal, Phuket offers a smorgasbord of dining experiences that will tickle your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Let’s embark on a delicious journey through the seven best restaurants in Phuket, where each stop promises a unique and memorable feast.
Where are they located?
The best restaurants in Phuket are spread throughout the island, but our choices are predominantly in the south. In this article, we’ll cover the 7 restaurants we consider to be the best regarding price quality, authentic food, good environment, and unique concept. For each one, we’ll include the location and contact information so you can get there without any hassle.
Top 7 Best Restaurants in Phuket Thailand:
1. TUGA Bar & Restaurant: The Portuguese Pioneer
Location: Rawai Opening Hours: 10 AM - 11 PM Price Range: $$
First on our list is the trailblazing TUGA Bar & Restaurant in Rawai, Phuket’s very first Portuguese restaurant. This hotspot offers a double-whammy concept. During the day, it’s TUGA Wellness, a serene haven for relaxation; after 6 pm, it morphs into a lively bar and restaurant, the ideal spot to hang out with friends. Picture this: an open-air bar, chill music, refreshing cocktails, and an atmosphere so relaxed and yet elegant that you might wonder if you’re in Thailand or Portugal.
The food? Oh, it’s the real deal. The cuisine is authentically Portuguese, featuring dishes that transport you straight to the other side of the world. You can’t leave without trying the Francesinha, a Portuguese sandwich that’s basically a meat lover’s dream smothered in a secret sauce. Another highlight is the Carne de Porco à Alentejana, a delightful combination of pork and clams that perfectly showcases the flavours of Portuguese cuisine. TUGA’s combination of delicious food, inviting atmosphere, and friendly service makes it one of the best restaurants in Phuket and the trendiest spot at the moment!
2. Suay Restaurant: Thai Tradition with a Twist
Location: Cherng Talay Opening Hours: 5 PM - 11 PM Price Range: $$
Suay Restaurant in Cherng Talay is where tradition meets innovation. Helmed by Chef Tammasak Chootong, this place serves modern Thai cuisine in a setting so stylish, you’ll want to Instagram every bite.
What to eat? Start with the Grilled River Prawn with Lemongrass – it’s as fresh as it gets. The Massaman Lamb Shank is another showstopper, with meat so tender it practically melts in your mouth. Suay’s creative take on Thai cuisine, paired with its chic atmosphere, ensures you’ll leave both full and inspired.
3. La Gritta: An Italian Love Affair
Location: Patong Beach Opening Hours: 6:30 PM - 11 PM Price Range: $$$
Nestled on the scenic Patong Beach, La Gritta offers more than just a meal – it’s a full-blown Italian romance. With an open-air terrace that provides breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea, this is the spot for sunset dining.
The Burrata Pizza is a must-try, featuring creamy burrata cheese that pairs perfectly with fresh tomatoes. For pasta lovers, the Lobster Linguine is a dream come true. La Gritta’s combination of stellar views, mouthwatering Italian cuisine, and top-notch service makes it a perfect pick for a memorable evening.
4. Raya Restaurant: A Taste of Old Phuket
Location: Phuket Town Opening Hours: 10 AM - 10 PM Price Range: $$
Raya Restaurant, located in the heart of Phuket Town, is a time capsule of traditional Southern Thai cuisine. Set in a charming Sino-Portuguese building, dining here feels like stepping into Phuket’s rich history.
The Crab Meat Curry with Rice Noodles is a crowd favorite, bursting with flavors that epitomize Southern Thai cooking. Don’t miss the Moo Hong, a Phuket-style braised pork dish that’s as comforting as a hug from your grandma. Raya’s dedication to authentic Thai flavors and its nostalgic ambiance make it a culinary treasure.
5. Blue Elephant: Royal Thai Elegance
Location: Phuket Town Opening Hours: 11:30 AM - 10 PM Price Range: $$$
Housed in a magnificent colonial mansion, Blue Elephant in Phuket Town serves up royal Thai cuisine fit for, well, royalty. The setting is straight out of a movie, with lush gardens and opulent interiors that make you feel like you’re dining in a palace.
The Royal Thai Platter offers a little bit of everything, making it perfect for those who can’t decide. The Massaman Curry, rich and aromatic, is another dish that’ll leave you raving. With its regal ambiance and exquisite food, Blue Elephant is a dining experience you won’t soon forget.
6. Mom Tri's Kitchen: Gourmet Dining with a View
Location: Kata Noi Beach Opening Hours: 11 AM - 10:30 PM Price Range: $$$
Perched above Kata Noi Beach, Mom Tri’s Kitchen combines gourmet cuisine with jaw-dropping ocean views. As part of the luxurious Villa Royale, this restaurant offers a serene and sophisticated dining experience.
The Andaman Seafood Platter is a must-try, showcasing the freshest seafood around. The Duck Breast with Tamarind Sauce is another winner, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory. With its exquisite dishes and stunning setting, Mom Tri’s Kitchen is an unforgettable destination.
7. Kan Eang@Pier: Seafood Delight by the Bay
Location: Chalong Bay Opening Hours: 11 AM - 10 PM Price Range: $$
Last but definitely not least, Kan Eang@Pier in Chalong Bay is a paradise for seafood lovers. The open-air seating provides beautiful views of the bay, making it a picturesque spot for a leisurely meal.
The Grilled Phuket Lobster is a standout, capturing the essence of the sea in every bite. The Tom Yum Goong, a spicy and tangy soup, is another highlight that’s sure to awaken your taste buds. With its fresh seafood and scenic location, Kan Eang@Pier is a must-visit for a true taste of Phuket.
Best Restaurants in Phuket Thailand
Phuket’s dining scene is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. From the authentic Portuguese flavours at TUGA Bar & Restaurant to the royal Thai elegance at Blue Elephant, each restaurant on this list offers a unique experience that’s sure to delight. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner with a view, a dive into traditional Thai cuisine, or a taste of international flavours, Phuket has it all. So, pack your appetite and prepare to embark on a gastronomic journey you won’t soon forget. Bon appétit!