10 Best Eateries in Phuket, From Cafes to Beachfront Restaurants

Even with all the sun-soaked beaches, scuba diving, and vibrant nightlife, eating is one of the best things to do in Phuket. We all know that Thai food stands up to the world’s best cuisines; and, embraced by the brilliant Andaman Sea, this island is especially known for delicious seafood. 

Locals and tourists hail the best restaurants in Phuket as local treasures — and we can’t say we disagree! We’ve scoured the island for the very best dining spots for your upcoming trip. Here’s what we’ve come up with: 10 unforgettable cafes and restaurants worth risking that beach body for.

1. Pru Restaurant

Treat yourself to an elevated dining experience in Phuket at Pru. Found in the five-star resort Trisara, this fine-dining hotspot is the first Michelin-starred restaurant on the island. It’s also known for its commitment to sustainable practices, getting recognised with the prestigious Michelin Green Star in 2021.

Pru stands for “plant, raise, understand” — a promise to support and put local produce in the spotlight. Many of the ingredients come from Trisara’s own farm Pru Jampa, while seasonal seafood and produce are sourced from all over Thailand.

And maybe it goes without saying, but it’s worth repeating: Pru serves exceptional fare. Five- or seven-course experiences allow guests to try a variety of dishes. A highlight: Phuket lobster, of course! Vegetarians will be delighted to learn there’s a meat-free tasting menu, too.

Address: 60/1 Moo 6, Srisoonthorn Road, Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket

2. Black Ginger

Looking to indulge in fine-dining Thai food? Head to Black Ginger at The Slate. First things first: The setting is fantastic. You’ll be whisked away on a raft to a stunning pavilion in the middle of a lagoon. Here, Black Ginger sets the stage for a luxurious Thai experience, with temple-inspired décor, fancy embellishments, and attentive staff in traditional dresses.

While the setting is top-notch, the food is even better. Black Ginger earned its place as one of the best restaurants in Phuket, with an extensive menu of authentic Thai dishes. Try Phuket prawn relish with soft shell crab (Namchoop Goong Sod) or fresh spring rolls (Poh Pia Sod Phuket). Plus, you really can’t go wrong with any of the seafood offerings here. For travellers eager to get a taste of Phuket’s culinary culture, Black Ginger is absolutely a must-visit.

Address: 116, Moo 1, Sakhu, Thalang

3. One Chun Cafe & Restaurant

It’s not hard to see why One Chun Cafe & Restaurant is such a crowd pleaser. Casual yet stylish with charm-filled vintage décor, this dining joint offers a pretty spot for a meal without the intimidation or high price tag of other fine-dining restaurants in Phuket. This is the place to eat, hang out, and relax with friends, whether you choose a table inside the colonial-style building or at the breezy alfresco area out back.

Not to mention, One Chun’s authentic southern Thai cuisine will leave you raving about the local fare. Signature dishes like the crab curry with chaploo leaves (Kang Poo) and stir-fried crab (Kam Poo Pad Manao) are best-sellers, although the menu is extensive enough to please a variety of foodies.

Address: 48/1 Thep Krasatti Road, Talad Yai

4. Mor Mu Dong

Set in a mangrove forest on the southern coast of Phuket, Mor Mu Dong offers a rustic dining experience that captures all the charm of the island. This casual open-air restaurant is extremely popular, with locals and tourists flocking from morning to evening.

Low prices and authentic southern Thai dishes — it’s everything we need for a fully satisfying meal! Local dishes get their shine in Mor Mu Dong, with specialties such as roasted salted pork and stuffed fish.

Address: 32/9 Soi Mu Dong, Chao Fah East, Chalong

5. Acqua

Few places are as dedicated to modern gourmet cuisine on the island as Acqua. The contemporary Italian restaurant blends classic Italian flavours with astonishingly innovative practices, giving gourmands in Phuket something to look forward to every time they step into this chic hotspot overlooking the Andaman.

Whether you’re ordering the degustation menu or going a la carte, you’re in for a memorable Acqua experience. Chef Alessandro Frau draws inspiration from all over the world, from Sicilian red prawns and French oysters to Sardinian sea urchins. And of course, Phuket’s seafood has its place on the table. Plus, the wine list is superb. There’s no wonder why Acqua is one of the most awarded restaurants in Phuket!

Address: 324/15 Prabaramee Road, Kalim Beach, Patong

6. Blue Elephant

Unofficially dubbed the Thai culinary ambassador since the 80s, the Blue Elephant brand spreads the gospel of Thai cuisine with its branches around the world. The Phuket outpost is a must-visit, partly due to its spectacular setting in a spectacular century-old Sino-Portuguese mansion. A striking palace in Phuket Town, this is a fantastic spot for a meal.  

Expect a menu that pays tribute to the legendary Royal Thai cuisine. High-quality ingredients and innovative dishes curated by Chef Nooror Somany Steppe make Blue Elephant Phuket a standout in the local dining scene. If you can’t decide on what to eat, trust the chef with the Blue Elephant Creation Set Menu.

Address: 96 Krabi Road, Tambon Talad Nuea, Mueang 

7. Mom Tri’s Kitchen

Head to Villa Royale in Kata Noi Beach for a mouthwatering lunch or dinner perched over the sea. The elegant Mom Tri’s Kitchen is an award-winning dining spot that’s more elevated than your standard street eatery yet more accessible than the island’s high-end bistros.

There’s a variety of continental, Thai, and fusion dishes to choose from in Mom Tri’s. From seared tuna to slow-cooked veal, there’s something for every type of hungry tourist here. For refreshments to pair with your meal, Mom Tri’s has got you covered. Experienced mixologists serve the best wine and cocktail drinks around, making this kitchen a great destination for a nightcap, too!

Address: Villa Royale, 12 Kata Noi Road, Kata Noi Beach

Also read: 10 Best Spots to Experience the Phuket Nightlife

8. Three Monkeys

Bring your tropical dreams to life at Three Monkeys, a striking dining spot tucked in the lush forests of Hanuman World. The captivating restaurant blends seamlessly into the natural backdrop, giving guests a uniquely Thai experience as they enjoy forest views while savouring delicious Thai cuisine. Trust us: This is as IG-worthy as a dining destination can get!

Three Monkeys turns out a variety of southern Thai dishes that are impressively authentic. Signature fares include prawn salad with tom yum paste (Goong Longa),  stew pork belly slices (Moo Ob Anajak), and stir-fried minced chicken with yellow curry (Hanuman Klook Fune). Coffee and cocktails are also served, making Three Monkeys one of the best restaurants in Phuket for all-day hangouts!

Address: 105 Moo 4, Muang Chaofa Road, Amphoe Mueang Phuket

9. Bookhemian

Take your crew to Bookhemian for a coffee break in one of the coolest spots in Phuket Town. Nestled in a neighbourhood lined with Sino-Portuguese shop houses, this industrial-chic cafe offers an artsy place to relax in the bustling town centre. Browse through an extensive collection of books on the first floor, or admire art by local artists in the second-floor gallery space.

Besides being a book lover’s sanctuary, Bookhemian is an excellent spot for caffeine enthusiasts. The coffee selection is pretty varied, and there’s an extensive tea and pastry selection, too. 

Address: 61 Thalang Road, Tambon Talat Yai, Mueang

10. Rush Coffee

Among the best coffee shops in Phuket is Rush Coffee, a cosy cafe serving some of the highest quality roasts on the island. Step inside the eye-catching Sino-Portuguese building to grab a table at this well-loved espresso bar.

Rush Coffee specialises in roasting Thai Arabica coffee, but the cafe offers beans from different countries as well. Every caffeine addict will find something for them in the coffee shop, but we’re particularly enamoured with the rich cold brew coffee. Pair it with a sandwich or sweet pastry for an extra-filling meal. 

Address: 31 Soi Rommanee, Thalang Road, Tambon Talat Yai, Mueang

Also read: 12 Underrated Sights in Phuket That You Have to Visit

There you go, our favourite cafes and restaurants in Phuket at the moment. It’s never easy to pick a place to eat on this foodie-friendly island, but this is a good place to start. Happy dining!