Best restaurants and cafes in Phuket: where to eat and a map of places to eat

General information about restaurants and cafes in Phuket

Phuket is not only a beach lover’s paradise, but also a true gastronomic Mecca, where you can try dishes from a variety of cuisines around the world. Restaurants and cafes here offer a wide range of dishes, from traditional Thai to Italian, French, Japanese and even Brazilian. The island offers establishments to suit every taste and wallet, from street cafes to international award-winning luxury restaurants.

One of the main advantages of Phuket’s gastronomic culture is its diversity. Here you can find small family restaurants, where the owners cook and serve the guests themselves, as well as luxury establishments with panoramic views of the Andaman Sea, where every dinner turns into a real event. Many restaurants on the island employ renowned chefs who create culinary masterpieces using the freshest local ingredients.

When it comes to the popularity of cuisine, Thai cuisine is certainly at the top of the list. In every corner of the island you can find many cafes offering local specialties such as pad thai, tom yam, green curry and fresh seafood. But don’t limit yourself to Thai cuisine – Phuket offers the best of Italian, French, Japanese and other world cuisines.

For the convenience of tourists, many restaurants and cafes in Phuket offer menus in several languages, including English and Russian, which greatly facilitates the choice of dishes. In addition, many establishments adapt the level of spiciness of dishes according to the preferences of foreign guests, which allows you to enjoy the local cuisine even those who are not used to spicy flavors.

Gastronomic tourism in Phuket is actively developing, and each institution tries to surprise its guests with something special. This may be unique author’s dishes, unusual presentation or atmosphere of the institution. Do not forget about the local markets, where you can not only buy fresh produce, but also try delicious snacks that are prepared right in front of the visitors.

Choosing where to eat in Phuket, you should focus on your preferences and mood. Do you want to enjoy a romantic dinner by the sea or prefer a cozy cafe in the city center? Phuket has everything to satisfy every need.

Top 10 Best Restaurants in Phuket

1. Boathouse Restaurant

Boathouse Restaurant is a famous restaurant on Kata Beach that has held the title of one of the best restaurants in Phuket for many years. Its main feature is the stunning sea view from the terrace. This place is perfect for romantic dinners and special events. The restaurant’s menu is dominated by fresh seafood dishes prepared according to Thai and European recipes.

The restaurant is also known for its wine list, which has been honored with numerous international awards. More than 800 wines from all over the world are presented here, which makes Boathouse an ideal place for gourmets and lovers of good wine. It is important to note that the establishment is located right on the shore, so dining at Boathouse becomes not only a culinary but also an aesthetic pleasure.

2. La Gritta

The Italian restaurant La Gritta, located on Patong, is considered one of the most romantic places on the island. The establishment occupies two levels and offers stunning views of the sea and sunsets. This place is ideal for romantic dinners and celebrations. The menu includes classic Italian dishes such as pasta, pizza and risotto, prepared according to original recipes using authentic ingredients.

The interior of the restaurant is designed in a modern style with elements of Italian luxury. Special attention is paid to details – from stylish lighting fixtures to elegant table setting. La Gritta is also known for its extensive wine list, which includes the best Italian and international wines. On warm evenings, guests can enjoy dinner on the outdoor terrace, listening to the sound of the waves and enjoying the light sea breeze.

3. Mom Tri’s Kitchen

Mom Tri’s Kitchen is a restaurant located at the Villa Royale Hotel on Kata Noi Beach. It offers a unique blend of Thai and international cuisine prepared with the freshest local ingredients. The restaurant was founded by renowned Thai architect and artist Mongkol Triwedya, who has created an atmosphere of a true work of art here.

Mom Tri’s Kitchen’s menu includes both traditional Thai dishes and original author’s recipes that impress with their taste and presentation. The facility is proud of its wine list, which includes more than 700 types of wines from all over the world. The interior of the restaurant is made in the style of the colonial era with elements of modern art, which creates a unique atmosphere.

4. Blue Elephant

Blue Elephant Restaurant in Phuket Town is part of a famous international chain that promotes Thai cuisine around the world. The institution is located in a magnificent historical building in the city center, which in itself makes a visit here a special event. Blue Elephant offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of real royal Thai cuisine, where every detail matters.

The restaurant’s menu includes both classic Thai dishes and modern interpretations of traditional recipes. Guests can sample delicacies such as green curry with crab, tom yam with shrimp, and specialty desserts made according to ancient recipes. The restaurant also hosts culinary master classes where guests can learn how to prepare popular Thai dishes under the guidance of chefs.

5. Raya Restaurant

Raya Restaurant is a true gastronomic symbol of Phuket, which has been delighting its guests with authentic Thai cuisine for many years. The restaurant is located in an old Chinese-Portuguese building in Phuket Town, which gives it a special atmosphere. The institution is famous for its cozy atmosphere and friendly service.

Raya Restaurant’s menu includes traditional Thai dishes such as curried crab with vermicelli, papaya salad with seafood and pineapple fried rice. The dishes are prepared according to original recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation. This restaurant is the perfect place for those who want to try authentic Thai cuisine in an authentic setting.

6. Trisara Seafood

Trisara Seafood is one of Phuket’s most exquisite restaurants located within the luxurious Trisara Resort. The restaurant offers fresh grilled seafood and fusion style dishes combining Thai and Western culinary traditions. The establishment is known for its high standards of service and great atmosphere.

Trisara Seafood menu includes such delicacies as lobsters, shrimps, mussels and fresh fish, which are delivered to the restaurant’s kitchen every day. Each dish here is a work of art that delights not only in flavor but also in presentation. The restaurant’s terrace offers a breathtaking view of the Andaman Sea, making dining here a truly unforgettable experience.

7. Black Ginger

Located at The Slate Hotel in Knighton Beach, Black Ginger is a restaurant that offers guests a unique immersion into the world of Thai cuisine. The establishment is surrounded by water and lit only by torches, creating a mysterious and romantic atmosphere. The restaurant was designed to resemble a traditional Thai palace.

Black Ginger’s menu features Royal Thai cuisine prepared with fresh local ingredients. Guests can try delicacies such as soft crab curry, pad thai with shrimp and the traditional Thai dessert of mango with sticky rice. This establishment is ideal for those who want to enjoy fine dining in a unique setting.

8. Suay Restaurant

Suay Restaurant is an institution where oriental traditions are combined with a modern approach to cooking. The restaurant is located in the center of Phuket Town and offers its guests a menu that includes both traditional Thai dishes and author’s interpretations of world culinary masterpieces. The restaurant’s chef, a graduate of a renowned culinary school, creates dishes that impress with their aesthetics and flavor.

The interior of Suay Restaurant is designed in a modern style with elements of Thai culture. Guests can choose to sit on the outdoor terrace or in the cozy air-conditioned lounge. This place is ideal for dinners with friends or romantic dates. The menu offers both popular Thai dishes and unique culinary experiments that even the most demanding gourmets will appreciate.

9. Kan Eang@Pier

Kan Eang@Pier is a beachfront restaurant located in Chalong district. It specializes in fresh seafood that is grilled right in front of guests. The restaurant offers a wide range of dishes including oysters, shrimp, squid and fish, which can be ordered individually or as part of set meals.

The interior of Kan Eang@Pier is designed in an Art Nouveau style with nautical elements. Guests can enjoy the view of the sea and yachts moored at Chalong Harbor, and relax to the sounds of live music, which is often played in the restaurant. This place is ideal for lunch and dinner with family or friends, as well as for romantic evenings.

10. Bampot Kitchen & Bar

Bampot Kitchen & Bar is a trendy restaurant in Cherng Talay district, which offers its guests a menu in the style of European cuisine with elements of Asian fusion. The institution is distinguished by stylish interior, made in modern style, and cozy atmosphere. Experienced chefs work here, who create dishes with unique combination of flavors and textures.

The menu of Bampot Kitchen & Bar includes both classic European dishes, such as steaks and pasta, and original author’s recipes, such as tuna tartare with avocado or caramelized scallops. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list and cocktail menu, which makes it an ideal place for evening meetings with friends or colleagues.

 

Best Cafes in Phuket

Family cafes and bistros

Phuket offers many cozy cafes and bistros that are perfect for family meals or just to enjoy a cup of coffee and a delicious dessert in a pleasant environment. These establishments are characterized by a friendly atmosphere and a varied menu with something to suit everyone’s taste.

One such café is The Coffee Club, located on Patong Beach. It serves fresh coffee, a variety of appetizers and desserts, and hearty breakfasts that can be ordered at any time of the day. The Coffee Club is known for its specialties such as avocado toast with poached egg and strawberry cheesecake, which has won the hearts of many tourists and locals alike.

Another popular family cafe is Bake, located in Laguna. This place is famous for its fresh pastries, croissants and scones, as well as a variety of cakes and pastries. The café also offers sandwiches, salads and light snacks. Bake is ideal for family gatherings and breakfasts in a cozy atmosphere.

Café with local cuisine

For those who want to immerse themselves in the Thai culture and try authentic local cuisine, Phuket has many cafes offering authentic Thai food. One such establishment is Lock Tien, located in the center of Phuket Town. This small cafe is known for its traditional menu that includes dishes such as Michelin shrimp noodles, chicken curry and mango sticky rice.

Another cafe with local cuisine that is worth a visit is Mee Ton Poe. This is an establishment with a long history, known for its specialties such as khoi cake (Thai omelette with mussels) and boat noodles. Mee Ton Poe is a great place to try authentic Thai food in a casual atmosphere.

Cafe with vegetarian and vegan menu

In recent years, vegetarian and vegan cafes have become increasingly popular in Phuket. These establishments offer their guests a variety of dishes made from fresh vegetables, fruits and other plant-based ingredients, without the use of animal products.

One such cafe is Pure Vegan Heaven, located on Nai Harn Beach. This cozy establishment offers its guests a wide variety of vegan dishes including chickpea burgers, smoothie bowls and fresh juices. Pure Vegan Heaven is famous for its signature salads and soups, which are made with the freshest local ingredients.

Another popular vegan cafe in Phuket is The Vegan Table, located in Phuket Town. This establishment offers a variety of dishes including plant-based cheese pizza, vegan tacos and sugar-free desserts. The Vegan Table is the perfect place for those on a vegetarian or vegan diet who want to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal.

Where to eat in Phuket with a sea view

One of Phuket’s main trump cards is its sea view restaurants and cafes. Numerous establishments along the coastline offer their guests the opportunity to enjoy not only delicious food, but also stunning panoramic views of the Andaman Sea.

360° Bar & Grill
Located within The Pavilions Phuket, this restaurant offers panoramic views of the Andaman Sea. Here you can enjoy cocktails and Mediterranean cuisine in a romantic setting.

The Kata Rocks Oceanfront Restaurant
This restaurant is located on a cliff in the Kata area, with stunning ocean views. It is a great place to try European and Thai cuisine paired with fine wines.

Sizzle Rooftop Restaurant
Located at Avista Hideaway Resort & Spa, near Patong Beach. The restaurant is famous for its steaks and seafood, as well as its breathtaking sunset views.

The Royal Kitchen
This Chinese restaurant is located at the Royal Paradise Hotel in Patong. It is on the top floor and offers views of Patong Bay and neighboring beaches.

Joe’s Downstairs
This is a popular spot on Kalim Beach, near Patong. Joe’s Downstairs is known not only for its sea views, but also for its modern American cuisine and exquisite cocktails.

Wassa Homemade Bar
A restaurant and bar in Patong that is slightly hidden from view but offers spectacular views of the bay. It serves Thai cuisine and a variety of drinks, and the evening atmosphere provides the perfect setting for relaxation.

Diavolo Restaurant
This restaurant is located within Paresa Resort Phuket in Kamala. Diavolo offers Italian cuisine and stunning sea views. Here you can enjoy an atmosphere of privacy and tranquility.

The Boathouse Wine & Grill
This is a classic restaurant in Kata that has long been popular for its beach and sea views. The menu offers a mix of French and Thai cuisine, as well as an extensive wine list.

Kan Eang@Pier.
Located in Chalong, this restaurant is known for its bay views and seafood. Kan Eang@Pier is great for family lunches and dinners.

Baba Nest
An open-air rooftop venue at Sri Panwa Hotel that offers a circular view of the sea and islands. Baba Nest is one of the most popular places to watch the sunset.

Heaven Restaurant & Bar

Heaven is a restaurant and bar located on the high ground between Kata and Karon beaches. Due to its location, it offers incredible panoramic views of the Andaman Sea and the surrounding hills. Thai and European cuisine as well as refreshing cocktails can be enjoyed here. It is a popular place to watch the sunset, especially appreciated for its romantic atmosphere and scenic views.

Malika Sky Bar in Patong is a stylish rooftop restaurant and bar located at The Royal Paradise Hotel & Spa. It is one of the most popular spots in Patong for those who want to enjoy the sea and city views from up high.Malika Sky Bar offers a varied menu including Thai and international cuisine, as well as cocktails and drinks. It is a great place to spend an evening in a cozy atmosphere, enjoying the sunset and panoramic views of Patong and the Andaman Sea.

The Cove Phuket, located on Ao Yon Beach. This cozy establishment offers its guests a menu of international cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood. Guests can enjoy lunch or dinner on the outdoor terrace while watching the sunset and listening to the sound of the waves.

Rock Salt, located on Nai Harn Beach. This establishment is famous for its grilled dishes and specialty cocktails, which are the perfect complement to a sunset dinner. Rock Salt is the perfect place for a romantic dinner or a get-together with friends.

For those looking for a more secluded location, Sri Panwa Restaurant, located on Cape Panwa, is worth checking out. This restaurant offers guests the unique opportunity to dine on a private terrace overlooking the sea. The menu features Thai and international cuisine prepared with fresh local ingredients. This place is ideal for special occasions or romantic dates.

Map of the best restaurants and cafes in Phuket

Phuket is an island that is famous for its gastronomic diversity. It is important to have a map with the best restaurants and cafes marked on it, so that you don’t get lost among the many offers. On the map you can find both world-famous establishments and small cozy cafes where you can try authentic Thai cuisine.

Many restaurants and cafes in Phuket are located in tourist areas such as Patong, Karon and Kata, but there are also those in more secluded locations. For example, Phuket Town has many places serving local cuisine and the Rawai area has seafood restaurants.

The Phuket food map will help you plan your food tour around the island so that you don’t miss out on any of the interesting places. It will be useful for both first-time visitors to Phuket and experienced travelers who want to discover new culinary horizons.

Tips for choosing restaurants and cafes in Phuket

When choosing where to eat in Phuket, there are several factors to consider to ensure your experience is as pleasant as possible. First, pay attention to the location of the establishment. If you want to enjoy a dinner overlooking the sea, choose restaurants located on the coast. If you’re interested in authentic Thai cuisine, head to Phuket Town, where you’ll find plenty of cafes serving local food.

Secondly, pay attention to the menu and specialization of the establishment. There are restaurants in Phuket specializing in seafood, Thai cuisine, Italian, French and other world cuisines. Choose an establishment depending on your gastronomic preferences.

The third important aspect is reviews from other tourists and locals. Before visiting a restaurant or cafe, it is worth reading reviews on travel sites or forums to learn about the quality of dishes, level of service and atmosphere of the institution. This will help you avoid unpleasant surprises and choose a really worthy place.

Finally, don’t forget about the budget. From budget cafes to luxury restaurants, Phuket has something for every budget. When planning a visit to a particular place, check the prices on the menu to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Tourist reviews of Phuket restaurants and cafes

Tourist reviews of Phuket restaurants and cafes play an important role in choosing an establishment to visit. Many travelers share their experiences on various travel platforms such as TripAdvisor, Google Maps and others. Through these reviews, one can get to know about the actual quality of food, level of service and atmosphere in restaurants and cafes.

Most Phuket restaurant reviews are positive, especially when it comes to establishments with sea views or restaurants offering authentic Thai cuisine. Many tourists note the friendliness of the staff and the high quality of service, which makes visiting restaurants in Phuket a real pleasure.

Some tourists also give useful tips on food choices or tell about their favorite places that are not always on the tourist routes. This helps to discover new establishments and try something new.

In general, tourist reviews confirm the high level of gastronomic culture in Phuket and the variety of offers for every taste and purse.

Conclusion

Phuket is a real paradise for gourmets, where everyone will find an institution to his taste. From luxurious restaurants overlooking the sea to cozy cafes in the city center, there is everything to make your gastronomic experience unforgettable. Choose where to eat in Phuket based on your preferences and you are sure to find the perfect place for dinner, lunch or breakfast.