A Dream Naka Island - Beachfront Retreat

Popular with Thai celebrities and prominent politicians, this eatery tucked away in a tiny alley in Thalang deserves its excellent reputation. The chefs source quality local ingredients to produce intensely flavoured dishes that encapsulate the essence of Phuket. Highlights include stir-fried banana stalk with plump shrimps and shrimp paste, and melt-in-your-mouth steamed pork belly with their signature southern Thai budu dipping sauce. Booking and ordering in advance are a must.

With its shaded garden, recently renovated Kin-Kub-Ei retains its inviting charm, while debuting a casual yet warm new dining area. Chef Tipsuda 'Tubtim' Khanchaijatuwit and Ei prepare southern Thai specialties passed down through the generations, nicely balancing flavours and prioritising quality. The menu ensures affordability without sacrificing taste. The crispy golden-brown local fish with tangy curry paste epitomises their commitment to flavour and tradition.

In the depths of the forest at the entrance to Bang Pae waterfall, two wooden pavilions stand connected by a terrace walkway. Here, a family-run restaurant faces a lagoon and a verdant wall of forest, while diners are accompanied by the welcoming calls of birds and gibbons. The tranquil ambiance is joined by traditional Thai and Southern Thai cooking, with local Phuket dishes standing out. Seasonal local clams are delicious and can be cooked many ways, including stir-fried with chilli paste.

Honouring Phuket town classics beneath the leafy canopy of an old mayom tree, this humble eatery focus on quality. From the short menu, we recommend the local fish, deep fried and topped with a fragrant curry paste. A nice spot for authentic local cuisine.

Beyond an entrance surrounded by lush foliage, the modest yet inviting space has just a handful of tables, contributing to a relaxed vibe. Dishes are made to order using produce bought at dawn – think rich, fiercely aromatic Southern Thai curries. Spice levels can be dialled down upon request. There's no English menu, but the welcome is warm and the authentic Phuket food speaks for itself, which explains the queues of loyal locals and savvy travellers!

This family-run gem serves comforting classics, from aromatic Khao Tom porridge to a secret-recipe Chinese brown soup with various toppings. Weekend specials include braised pork ribs and chicken with fermented soybeans. Adding a twist, they serve sandwiches filled with distinctly flavoured kaya. The perfect balance of casual dining and unique culinary delights is complemented by charming local Thai-Chinese decor.

To reach this floating restaurant near Ko Maphrao, take a 5-min boat ride across sparkling waters reflecting the sunshine. Onboard, panoramic views, a gentle breeze and uber-fresh seafood await. The distance from sea to plate couldn’t be shorter. Start with a freshly picked coconut before tucking into delicious southern and central Thai seafood. The grouper soup with Chinese soybean paste and stir-fried black tiger prawns with salt and chilli are highlights.