Phuket has always been a paradise for travellers. Rich in history and culture, blessed with endless nature, the island offer visitors an array of activities to do and see. Of course, Thai food is also one of the reasons people are in love with Phuket, luxury travellers and backpackers alike. Whether you stay in the happening Patong or the tranquil Nai Harn, there are plenty of mouth-watering food to try out. Not knowing where or what to eat? Here’s a list of places for you to check out. All you have to do is to eat your way through the list.
- Kopitiam by Wilai
Kopitiam by Wiliai brings you back in time with its retro décor. Wooden furniture, traditional cabinets, Chinese signboards, everything in this charming café is a reminder of China in the old days. Relaxed and peaceful vibes aside, the food here won’t disappoint! You will be able to find all-day breakfasts and a good selection of Thai snacks. If you are not sure of what to choose, follow the Kopitiam’s picks. A retro blackboard lists daily special items – you can never go wrong with the well-loved pad thai or tom yum. The price here is slightly more expensive than other cafes in the area, but it is well worth it!
Location: 14 & 18 Talang R., Phuket Old Town, Muang Phuket
Hours: 11:00am – 10:00pm, closed on Sundays
- C. Restaurant
There’s an array of local options at N.C. Restaurant. This is the place to go if you want to find Thai cuisine at an affordable price. Try kanom jeen, a popular breakfast dish comprised of noodles, raw vegetables and mild curry. Hokkien noodles, haw mokor, deep-fried crab meat balls are some of the favourites here. Do note that breakfasts are for takeaway only. However, you can dine on the top floor of the restaurant from lunchtime onwards.
Location: Opposite Royal Phuket City on Phang Nga Road, Phuket Town
Hours: 7:00am – 5:00pm
- Somjit Noodle House
Somjit Noodle House is another place to satisfy your craving for local delights. The star of the show here is the homemade Hokkien noodle that comes with fragrant prawn stock. Tasty and aromatic, the dish leaves a hint of sweetness on your palate. You can have the noodles in two ways, stir-fried or served with soup.
Location: 214/6 Phuket Road, Phuket Town
Hours: 10:00am – 6:00pm
- Lock Tien
Confused by all the options in Phuket? Not sure of what to try, or where to find it? Check out Lock Tien instead. Here, you will be able to order a range of Thai food and sample it all. That may be a little bit too much if you are going there alone, but will make a great dinner for groups. So gather up the gang and make your way to Lock Tien. The food court style restaurant houses ten different stalls, offering everything from Phuket-style popiah to Hokkien noodles and others.
Location: Dibuk Rd, Tambon Talat Nuea, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket Old Town
Hour: 10:00am – 5:00pm
- Kota Khao Mun Gai
If there’s one dish that you can’t afford to miss, it is Khao mun gai. It’s a simple dish of fragrant rice and steamed chicken. Cooked to perfection, it is strangely addictive. However, easy as it may sound, it is hard to get the flavours of Khao mun gai right. Kota Khao Mun Gai is one of the few places where you can find it. Fragrant rice, tender chicken, combined with the aroma of garlic, coriander, spring onions and chillies make one perfect plate of goodness. This family-run business has been around for a few decades and has always been packed with customers. Make sure to arrive early as the store closes once it runs out of items, so you do not have a lot of chances to get it late in the night.
Location: 16 – 18 Soi Surin Montri (near the traffic circle with the clock in the middle).
Hours: 10:00am until when the dishes run out
- Brake Taek
Where to get a perfect bowl of tom yum? Check out Brake Taek. The store opens from 8:00 am, but it is packed most of the time, so be prepared for some queuing. But the food here is well worth your time.
Location: Phang Nga Road, across Royal Phuket City Hotel near the bus terminal
Hours: 8:00am – 5:00pm
- Siang Khaen
If you are into spicy food, check out Siang Khaen for some Northeastern fares. More than just a clean venue and delicious dishes, the place has friendly staff and great services that have won the loyalty of many customers, travellers and locals alike. If you are not sure what to choose, try som tam (papaya salad), laab het (spicy mushroom salad), namtok nua (beef salad) and barbeque pork – you are in for a treat!
Location: Mae Luan Road, across the Mitsubishi Showroom
Hours: 11:00am – 10:00pm