Skip the tourist traps and discover where Phuket locals actually eat. These authentic Thai restaurants serve genuine flavors at honest prices, offering the real taste of southern Thailand. From family-run shophouses in Old Phuket Town to bustling local eateries, these spots prioritize flavor over fancy decor and locals over tourists. Also explore street food and 20 Best Restaurants.
Raya Restaurant
Historic 100-year-old shophouse serving authentic Phuket cuisine since 1923. Family recipes passed down through generations. Famous for moo hong (braised pork belly), crab curry, and Hokkien noodles. Packed with locals at lunch. The real deal for traditional Phuket flavors.
Kopitiam by Wilai
Charming retro cafe serving Phuket-style breakfast and comfort food. Kaya toast, Hokkien mee, and local coffee. Beautiful Sino-Portuguese shophouse with vintage decor. Popular morning spot for local families. Cash only.
Mee Ton Poe
Legendary noodle shop open since 1946. Famous for Hokkien mee (yellow noodles with pork and seafood). Simple shophouse with no-frills atmosphere. Queue during peak lunch hours. Cash only. Closes when soup runs out.
Suay Restaurant
Hidden gem known by locals. Authentic southern Thai cuisine with bold flavors. Excellent seafood, spicy salads, and curries. Simple setting but incredible food. Popular with Thai families on weekends. Some English spoken.
One Chun Cafe & Restaurant
Cozy vintage cafe in restored shophouse. Thai breakfast, traditional desserts, and excellent local coffee. Beautiful interior with antique furniture. Instagram-worthy but genuinely local. Perfect morning stop exploring Old Town.
Krua Nai Pan
Authentic Thai restaurant frequented by local government workers and families. Excellent curries, stir-fries, and daily specials. Large portions, honest prices. Basic setting but consistently delicious food. Minimal English but friendly staff.
Go Benz
Famous for fresh seafood at market prices. Pick your fish, prawns, or crab and choose cooking style. Popular late-night spot for locals after drinking. Simple outdoor setting. Can get busy on weekends.
Tu Kab Khao
Modern take on traditional Thai cuisine. Locally-sourced ingredients and creative presentations. Hip atmosphere attracting young Thai professionals. Good wine selection. Reservations recommended for dinner.
Lock Tien Food Court
Authentic local food court near fresh market. Multiple stalls serving everything from dim sum to Isaan food. Extremely cheap and genuinely local. Zero tourists. Cash only. Closes early afternoon.
Phuket Town Night Market
Weekly rotating night markets in different neighborhoods. Authentic street food, grilled meats, fresh fruit, and local snacks. Where locals eat out affordably. Different market each night of the week. Sunday Walking Street most touristy but still excellent.
Tips for Eating at Local Restaurants
Language Barriers
Most local places have minimal English. Point at what others are eating, use Google Translate, or learn basic Thai phrases. Locals appreciate the effort and are usually very helpful.
Spice Levels
Say "mai pet" for not spicy or "pet nit noi" for a little spicy. Local restaurants cook authentically spicy unless you specify otherwise. Southern Thai food tends to be spicier than central Thai cuisine.
Cash is King
Most local restaurants are cash only. ATMs everywhere but bring enough small bills. Some places close when ingredients run out, so arrive earlier rather than later.
Dining Hours
Locals eat early. Lunch rush 12:00-13:00, dinner 18:00-20:00. Some places close mid-afternoon. Night markets start around 17:00. Popular spots fill up fast during peak times.
Must-Try Local Dishes
Phuket-style braised pork belly with five spices and soy sauce. Sweet, savory, and melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Yellow noodles stir-fried with pork, seafood, and vegetables. Reflects Phuket's Chinese heritage.
Refreshing shaved ice dessert with jelly, tapioca, and sweet syrup. Perfect for hot days.
Local coffee served with condensed milk. Strong and sweet. Traditional Phuket beverage.
Rice noodles with various curries. Local breakfast favorite. Choose your curry sauce.
Flaky flatbread with various sweet or savory fillings. Thai-Muslim specialty popular for breakfast or snacks.
Why Eat Where Locals Eat?
Local restaurants offer authentic flavors at honest prices. You'll experience real Phuket culture, support family businesses, and eat food that hasn't been toned down for tourist palates. The atmosphere may be simple, but the food is genuine and delicious. Plus, you'll save money while eating better quality meals than in most tourist areas.