Ratana Hotel Rassada

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!

Having grown up working in his family's food business, Chef Buriphat always wanted to do something special with their recipes. Over the last few years, he has realised that vision, impressing diners with his honest interpretation of traditional Southern Thai-Peranakan cuisine. Check out the delicious stir-fried pork belly with herbs and sweet dark soy sauce, and be sure to try the pork rib soup with tofu and salted fish.

For over five years, Sunee’s street food stall has been renowned for its Khanom A Pong—delicious coconut crepes. Cooked in mini woks over charcoal, the crepes are unique for their light, crispy shell and soft centre—a perfect balance of sweetness and creamy coconut. Be sure to arrive early at this beloved stall to experience these irresistible snacks.

Merging the owner's fashion design flair and passion for fine fare, One Chun offers a vintage-toned dining experience in a 19C building. Diners still enjoy the family recipes, which have been passed down the generations. Among the specialties is a spicy yet refreshing dish with boiled shrimp and shrimp paste, perfectly balancing the salty and sour notes. Be sure to try "Mu Hong" for its bold flavours and soft, tender pork belly.

Soft, crispy, non-oily roti emerge from a huge charcoal pan. At this 70-year-old Halal breakfast spot, they're shaped, fried and served in the blink of an eye and served with tender beef or chicken curry. The sweeter roti with banana and egg has no added sugar.

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.

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.