Calm at Bangphat

(The restaurant is temporarily closed.) Opened in December 2023, Simon Rogan's first Thailand venture, Aulis, is based on a 'chef's table' concept. The multi-course tasting menu presents native ingredients, many sourced from Thailand and local grower collaborations. Begin with an amuse-bouche over drinks in the lounge, then take a seat in front of the open kitchen to watch the chefs precisely plate farm-to-table fare imbued with Rogan's signature flair. The non-alcoholic pairing is also worth trying.

Popular with locals and domestic tourists, this simple, time-honoured restaurant serves bold Southern Thai dishes with unwavering authenticity. Recipes handed down the generations are brought to life using fresh ingredients from Phang-Nga, and each dish is made to order and perfected with spice, herbs and house-made pastes. Highlights include vibrant yellow curry with grouper and pineapple, and punchy stir-fried pork with bitter beans.

Serving satay, and only satay, since 1975 – it’s now Phang-Nga’s iconic food. The 2-day marinated sauce smothers charcoal-grilled chicken, pork, pork intestine or shrimp. Our favourite is the tender pork satay with coconut aroma, rich peanut flavour and fresh cucumber relish.

Across from a Chinese shrine, this self-service buffet has been drawing devotees for over 30 years with its tasty khanom chin and four curry options to mix and match. Pick from a wide range of condiments, fresh vegetables, boiled egg and crispy anchovies. Lunchtime is always busy, so arrive early.

This striking, solar-panelled restaurant by the sea embodies its 'Plant, Raise, Understand' ethos with a culinary journey showcasing seasonal, local foods. Chef Jimmy introduces diners to Thailand's unique produce, using rare ingredients in a menu that focuses on seafood, plants, and home-made preserves and fermented foods. The Japanese Kappo-style counter lends views into the open kitchen, against the backdrop of the ocean.

‘Toh-daeng’ translates as ‘red dining table’ – and you will find one here, running the length of the kitchen wing at this renovated manor house which serves as a window into Phuket’s past. The restaurant is surrounded by farmland, where they grow ingredients including mulberry and coconut. Well-balanced dishes allow the natural flavours of the produce to shine; rambutan red curry with grilled pork neck is a highlight, with the rambutan adding a natural sweetness.

Established for over 35 years, the restaurant has fostered a close connection with local fishermen, ensuring the delivery of a diverse selection of fresh seafood. The open-air main dining area exudes the charm of an old Thai-Chinese eatery. Popular among divers returning from Mu Ko Similan, the intense flavours authentically represent local cuisine, with generously sized dishes. Standouts include the stir-fried crab with lime and the southern curry featuring river snails and wild betel leaves.