A Food Lover’s Guide to Phuket: Best Local Dishes & Where to Eat

Phuket is a paradise not just for beach lovers but also for food enthusiasts. The island offers a rich blend of Thai, Chinese, and Malay flavors, creating a unique culinary experience. From spicy seafood to comforting noodle dishes, here are the must-try foods and the best places to enjoy them.

1. Savor Authentic Pad Thai

Pad Thai is Thailand’s most famous noodle dish, made with stir-fried rice noodles, shrimp, egg, tofu, and peanuts in a tangy tamarind sauce. For the best Pad Thai in Phuket, visit Pad Thai Shop in Karon or Go Benz in Phuket Town, both known for their rich flavors and generous portions.

2. Indulge in Spicy Tom Yum Goong

This hot and sour shrimp soup is a Thai classic, packed with lemongrass, lime, chili, and fresh seafood. The bold flavors make it a must-try dish in Phuket. Head to Mor Mu Dong, a famous local restaurant built on stilts over mangroves, for a truly authentic and aromatic Tom Yum experience.

3. Feast on Fresh Seafood at Rawai

Phuket’s coastline is a haven for seafood lovers. At Rawai Seafood Market, you can handpick your seafood and have it cooked on the spot. Try grilled tiger prawns, garlic butter lobsters, and spicy seafood salads. The freshness and variety make it a seafood lover’s dream come true.

4. Discover the Flavors of Hokkien Noodles

A dish influenced by Phuket’s Chinese heritage, Hokkien noodles are thick, yellow noodles stir-fried with seafood, pork, and soy sauce. One of the best places to try this dish is Mee Ton Poe, a legendary eatery that has been serving delicious Hokkien noodles for over 70 years.

5. Experience Phuket’s Street Food Scene

No food journey is complete without sampling Phuket’s street food. Visit Phuket Weekend Night Market or Chillva Market for a variety of local snacks like grilled squid, mango sticky rice, and Thai pancakes. These bustling markets offer a feast for the senses and a taste of true Thai culture.