Thai cuisine is one of the world's most beloved culinary traditions, and Phuket offers some of the best opportunities to experience authentic Thai flavors. From fiery curries to delicate stir-fries, from street-side local joints to upscale dining rooms, the island's Thai restaurants showcase the complexity, balance, and depth of this remarkable cuisine. Phuket also specializes in Southern Thai dishes that differ from central Thai food, featuring more turmeric, fresh seafood, and intense spicing that reflects the region's Muslim influences and coastal location. For more dining options, see our 20 Best Restaurants and Best Local Restaurants guides.
Best Thai Restaurants by Area
Phuket Town - Authentic Local Favorites
Phuket Town offers the most authentic Thai dining experience with restaurants frequented by locals serving traditional recipes passed down through generations. See our 10 Best Restaurants in Phuket Town.
Raya Restaurant
Historic family-run restaurant in a beautiful Sino-Portuguese mansion serving authentic Phuket cuisine since 1947. Specializes in traditional Southern Thai dishes including Moo Hong (braised pork belly in sweet soy sauce), Kua Kling (dry curry with minced meat), and various fresh seafood preparations. The atmospheric dining room features antique furniture and photographs documenting Phuket's history. Popular with locals and tourists who seek genuine local flavors. Service can be slow during busy lunch hours but the authentic taste is worth the wait.
Tu Kab Khao
Contemporary Thai restaurant in Old Town serving elevated traditional dishes in a stylish renovated shophouse. The menu focuses on Southern Thai specialties and family recipes with modern presentation. Standout dishes include Kanom Jeen (rice noodles with various curry toppings), Tom Som (sour and spicy soup), and Phuket-style yellow curry. The restaurant offers tasting sets allowing you to sample multiple dishes. Air-conditioned comfort combines with authentic flavors. Excellent for first-time visitors wanting to explore regional cuisine.
Kopitiam by Wilai
Charming cafe-restaurant serving Phuket-Chinese fusion cuisine reflecting the island's cultural heritage. Located in a beautifully restored building with vintage decor. The menu features Hokkien noodles, Phuket-style dim sum, traditional coffee, and local cakes. Breakfast and lunch are particularly popular. The relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for leisurely meals while exploring Old Town. Prices are reasonable and portions generous. Don't miss the homemade kaya (coconut egg jam) toast.
Beach Areas - Tourist-Friendly Thai Dining
Beach area restaurants offer Thai cuisine adapted for international palates with less intense spicing, though many can prepare authentic spice levels upon request.
Baan Rim Pa (Patong)
Upscale Thai restaurant perched on a cliff overlooking Patong Bay offering stunning sunset views and royal Thai cuisine. The elegant setting features traditional Thai architecture and decor. Menu includes refined versions of classic dishes plus lesser-known royal recipes. Famous for Phuket lobster, soft shell crab curry, and tom yum soup. Dress code enforced (no beachwear). Reservations essential, especially for sunset tables. Higher prices reflect the premium location and quality ingredients. Live traditional music adds to the ambiance.
Mom Tri's Kitchen (Kata Noi)
Fine dining restaurant at Mom Tri's Villa Royale offering fusion of Thai and international cuisine with spectacular ocean views. The menu features innovative takes on Thai classics using premium ingredients and artistic presentation. Open-air terrace dining overlooking Kata Noi Beach provides romantic atmosphere. Wine list is extensive. Popular for special occasions and sunset dinners. Reservations required. The attached villa is one of Phuket's most luxurious properties.
Suay Restaurant (Cherngtalay)
Hidden gem in lush tropical gardens serving authentic Thai food in a peaceful setting. Family-run restaurant focuses on traditional recipes with fresh local ingredients. The garden atmosphere with ponds and greenery creates a tranquil dining experience away from tourist areas. Generous portions at reasonable prices. Popular with ex-pats who appreciate genuine Thai flavors. Try the jungle curry, tamarind fish, and papaya salad. Friendly service and English-speaking staff help navigate the extensive menu.
Pad Thai Shop (Multiple Locations)
Casual restaurants specializing exclusively in pad Thai, Thailand's most famous noodle dish. Multiple locations across beaches make it convenient. Simple menu focuses on perfecting this one dish with options for shrimp, chicken, or vegetarian. Watch chefs prepare your dish in large woks over high heat. Quick service and affordable prices make it perfect for casual lunch. Not fancy, but the pad Thai is consistently good and authentic.
Rawai & Chalong - Local Gems
South Phuket areas offer excellent Thai restaurants popular with ex-pats and long-term visitors who demand authentic flavors at reasonable prices.
Krua Thara Seafood (Rawai)
Beachfront restaurant along Rawai Beach serving fresh seafood prepared Thai-style. Choose your seafood from ice displays and specify cooking method. Specialties include grilled fish with Thai herbs, crab curry, and spicy seafood salads. Casual atmosphere with plastic chairs and tables right on the beach. Sunset views over fishing boats add to the authentic experience. Popular with locals, which is always a good sign. Prices are fair based on market rates for seafood.
Must-Try Thai Dishes in Phuket
Tom Yum Goong
Hot and sour soup with prawns, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chili. The perfect balance of spicy, sour, salty, and sweet. Phuket's fresh seafood makes this dish exceptional.
Pad Thai
Thailand's national dish - stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, tofu, bean sprouts, peanuts, and your choice of protein. Sweet, savory, and tangy. Simple but requires skill to perfect.
Green Curry (Gaeng Keow Wan)
Creamy coconut curry with green chilies, Thai basil, bamboo shoots, and eggplant. Rich, aromatic, and can be very spicy. Best with jasmine rice.
Massaman Curry
Muslim-influenced curry with Persian and Indian spices - cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg. Usually made with beef or chicken, potatoes, and peanuts. Milder and sweeter than other curries.
Som Tam (Papaya Salad)
Spicy salad of shredded green papaya, tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, dried shrimp, and chili-lime dressing. Refreshing and addictively spicy. Perfect side dish or light meal.
Moo Hong (Phuket Specialty)
Slow-braised pork belly in sweet dark soy sauce with five-spice powder. Melt-in-your-mouth tender with sweet-savory flavor. Traditional Phuket dish showing Chinese influence.
Gaeng Som (Sour Curry)
Southern Thai sour and spicy curry without coconut milk. Made with tamarind, turmeric, and vegetables. Lighter than coconut curries with intense sour-spicy taste.
Pla Kapong Rad Prik
Whole deep-fried sea bass topped with sweet and spicy chili sauce. Crispy outside, moist inside. Shows off Phuket's fresh seafood. Perfect shared dish.
Dining Tips for Thai Restaurants
Spice Levels
Thai food can be extremely spicy. When ordering, specify "mai phet" (not spicy), "phet nit noi" (little spicy), or "phet mak" (very spicy). Tourist areas automatically reduce spice. Ask for "Thai spicy" if you want authentic heat.
Sharing Style
Thai meals are meant for sharing. Order multiple dishes and share everything family-style. One dish per person plus rice is typical. This lets you taste more varieties.
Condiments
Tables usually have four condiments: sugar, fish sauce, chili powder, and vinegar with chilies. These let you adjust flavors to preference. Adding sugar balances spicy dishes.
Rice is Essential
Thai dishes are designed to be eaten with rice, which balances intense flavors and stretches the meal. Order steamed jasmine rice or sticky rice with northeastern dishes.
Look for Crowds
Restaurants packed with Thai people usually serve authentic food at good prices. Don't judge by appearance - simple-looking places often have the best food.
Lunchtime Value
Many restaurants offer lunch specials with rice and multiple dishes for 100-150 THB. Dinner at the same restaurant might cost twice as much for similar food.
Fresh is Best
For seafood, ask what's fresh that day. Avoid pre-made dishes that have been sitting. Best Thai food is cooked to order in blazing hot woks.
Phuket Town Advantage
For the most authentic and affordable Thai food, head to Phuket Town. Beach restaurants cater to tourists with adjusted flavors and higher prices.
Why Explore Thai Cuisine in Phuket?
Regional Specialties
Experience Southern Thai dishes unique to Phuket with influences from Malaysian and Muslim cuisine.
Fresh Seafood
Island location means incredibly fresh seafood prepared with Thai herbs and spices.
Great Value
Authentic Thai food offers incredible quality and flavor for the price, especially in Phuket Town.
Cultural Experience
Thai dining traditions reflect the culture's emphasis on sharing, balance, and hospitality.