Thailand for Foodies

Where to eat!

There are many exciting things about Thailand, and while the thought of pristine beaches, balmy weather and captivating culture are undoubtedly enticing, Thailand is also a food-lovers paradise. With exotic flavours, seafood as fresh as it gets and lavish cocktail options you can understand why. Guaranteed to tick the box for a foodie fix, Phuket, Phi Phi Island and Koh Samui will have you organising your day around the breakfast, lunch and dinner locations!

Phuket

Hidden in the streets of Phuket Town, Ka Jok See is one of Thailand’s secret hot spots for dining. Unadvertised, this restaurant has gained its strong reputation through word of mouth of its many pleased customers. The delectable cuisine is served ‘Thai-style’, meaning everyone shares the dishes, and come 9pm you can expect the atmosphere to escalate as the restaurant becomes host to an exciting, over-the-top cabaret! If you’re keen to visit this hidden gem, be sure to make a reservation as the place tends to book out quickly most nights.

Kan Eang@Pier is not such a secret, but its tasteful design, seafront-al fresco dining and fresh Thai seafood do wonders for the senses. Sunset drinks have never been so enchanting. Situated on the east coast of Phuket, it’s a bit of a venture from the tourist hot spots, however this slight distance has never been to its detriment.

If you’re searching for something a bit livelier, Catch Beach club takes the cake. Located on Surin Beach, Catch brings glamour and excitement to the shores of Phuket, and weaves in the alluring elements of island life. With live music, both a-la-carte and buffet options, and, most importantly, a wine and cocktail menu to please the most travelled of palates, Catch has a little something for everyone.

Phi Phi Island

Just offshore Phuket are the breathtaking shores of Phi Phi Island, and where better to indulge in fresh seafood – Phi Phi’s main (edible) attraction. La Grand Bleu is a little something different from regular island-type dining. Deceptive at first, with its bamboo-lined entrance, Phi Phi’s French-Thai fusion restaurant sports an extravagant (but, classy) interior and simplistic, yet entrancing menu. The colourful eatery of Tonsai Seafood is the perfect place to watch the sunset and indulge, and is a bit more low key. The bright lights and fun atmosphere set the scene, and the daily catches are displayed proudly in ice. The only thing as impressive as the daily catches is the number of ways they can be cooked! Fear not, if seafood isn’t your thing, the menu hosts a range of western dishes. There is definitely something for everyone at this charming beach shack.

Koh Samui

Much like a charming beach shack, Koh Samui, has more to offer than expected. Whether on a romantic getaway or a family holiday, Koh Samui will definitely accommodate to your every whim. Ocean 11 is one of Samui’s most celebrated restaurants thanks to its Mediterranean and Italian inspired menu, and its hand-picked wine list. This is definitely an occasion to dress up a little, and the attentive service and elegant ambiance make it worthwhile.

We all yearn for something traditional and homely now and then, and Shambala Restaurant has a massaman curry on the menu, which is worth calling home about. The recipe, which was created by an old man in the local markets, hosts a solid kick – try it if you’re game. The service, as well as the modest nature of the staff, decor and location will have you instantly charmed – you might even become a regular for your stay. Many places on Samui also offer the beach dining experience, which is a must-do. This romantic and delightful style of dining on cushions in the sand is offered at Peace Resort on Bophut Beach, and all along Chaweng Beach. A perfect setting for a few sunset drinks.