Top 10 Restaurants in Phuket – Unforgettable Dining Experiences
Restaurants in Phuket prove the island is more than just beaches and nightlife—it’s a culinary capital where fiery street food stalls, cliffside fine dining, and generations-old seafood kitchens all share the same salty ocean breeze. From seaside shacks serving the freshest seafood to fine dining with views of the Andaman Sea, the island offers a gastronomic journey for every taste and budget. Here’s a guide to the top 10 restaurants in Phuket that every food lover should visit.
1. Blue Elephant Phuket – Royal Thai Dining
Set in a restored Sino-Portuguese mansion in Phuket Town, Blue Elephant serves refined Royal Thai cuisine. Expect elegant presentations, bold flavors, and an immersive atmosphere steeped in history.
Signature Dishes: Massaman lamb curry, Phuket-style sea bass Location: 96 Krabi Road, Phuket Old Town Price Range: $$$
2. Raya Restaurant – Authentic Phuket Recipes
This charming heritage house delivers authentic Southern Thai flavors passed down through generations. Popular among locals and in-the-know travelers, Raya’s menu pays tribute to Phuket’s culinary roots.
Signature Dishes: Crabmeat curry with rice noodles, braised pork belly Location: 48 Dibuk Road, Phuket Town Price Range: $$
3. Ka Jok See – Dinner and a Show
Ka Jok See is more than a restaurant—it’s a Phuket institution. A hidden gem that transforms into a cabaret-style party by night, this spot delivers fantastic food and energetic performances in equal measure.
Signature Dishes: Set menus with Thai specialties Location: Soi Takua Pa, Phuket Town Price Range: $$$
4. Suay Restaurant Cherngtalay – Contemporary Thai
Chef Tammasak, a former Iron Chef Thailand contestant, presents modern Thai cuisine with international influences in an elegant, garden-style setting. Suay is ideal for romantic dinners or upscale lunches.
Signature Dishes: Tiger prawns with tamarind glaze, coconut panna cotta Location: 60/2 Moo 3, Cherngtalay Price Range: $$$
5. Kan Eang@Pier – Seaside Seafood Dining
Located by Chalong Bay, Kang Eang restaurant specializes in fresh seafood and traditional Thai dishes with unbeatable ocean views.
Signature Dishes: Grilled lobster, soft-shell crab curry Location: 44/1 Viset Road, Chalong Price Range: $$$
6. The Boathouse Restaurant – Beachfront Fine Dining
Right on Kata Beach, The Boathouse combines elegant French-inspired cuisine with one of the most extensive wine cellars on the island.
Signature Dishes: Duck confit, Andaman seafood platter Location: Kata Beach, West Phuket Price Range: $$$$
7. Mor Mu Dong – Rustic Local Favorite
Hidden along a mangrove trail in East Phuket, Mor Mu Dong is as local as it gets. Traditional bamboo huts, spicy Thai food, and unbeatable prices.
Signature Dishes: Sour curry fish, spicy lemongrass salad Location: Soi Palai, near Phuket Zoo Price Range: $
8. La Gritta – Italian with a View
Located at Amari Phuket in Patong, La Gritta offers fine Italian dining with stunning sunset views across Patong Bay. Perfect for special occasions.
Signature Dishes: Truffle risotto, burrata with heirloom tomatoes Location: Amari Phuket, Patong Price Range: $$$
9. Tu Kab Khao – Trendy Thai in Phuket Town
Stylish interiors meet bold local flavors in this contemporary Thai restaurant. Tu Kai Khao is popular for Instagrammable décor and standout Southern cuisine.
Signature Dishes: Crab curry, stir-fried pork with shrimp paste Location: 8 Phang Nga Road, Phuket Town Price Range: $$
10. Thammachart Seafood – Fresh and Affordable
If you’re after no-frills dining with some of the freshest catches, this local seafood spot near Rawai is ideal. Choose your fish, weigh it, and have it grilled or steamed to perfection.
Signature Dishes: Steamed fish with lime, fried shrimp cakes Location: Near Rawai Pier, Rawai Price Range: $$
Dining Tips in Phuket
Tip | Why It Matters |
---|---|
Make Reservations | Popular spots fill up quickly |
Try Local Specialties | Southern Thai cuisine is unique |
Check for Service Charges | Some restaurants add 10% automatically |
Dress Code Awareness | Fine dining spots may require smart casual |