Recognising the rich diversity of restaurants and eateries in Thailand’s southern region, the MICHELIN Guide Bangkok 2019 extends its reach to Phuket and Phang-nga for the first time this year. Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guides, says: “With Thailand’s Andaman Sea offering an opulence of refined ingredients and endless culinary inspiration, it’s no surprise that Thailand’s south is home to one of the most innovative restaurants in our selection.”
The MICHELIN Guide Bangkok, Phuket and Phang-Nga 2019 selection also features a total of 72 restaurants awarded a Bib Gourmand distinction, which recognises establishments for their good value for money, serving a quality menu for a maximum of THB 1,000 (S$41).
In Phuket, most of the Bib Gourmand establishments are clustered in Talat Yai, Phuket City, also known as Old Phuket Town, which hosts lively markets and is a hubbub of restaurants, boutiques and bars. See what the Michelin inspectors have to say about the 12 Bib Gourmand establishments in Phuket.
Bang Pae Seafood
It's an all-British affair at this restaurant, which is owned by a Scotsman and run by an English manager and chef. The urban style offers a relaxed environment with open kitchen, copper-topped bar and vivid modern artwork, while the modern Euro-style food is well presented and packed with flavour. Choose from generous sized snacks, sharing dishes like whole Andaman sea bass and mains that include the perennially popular fish pie.
Chomchan
Younger sister to Raya and One Chun restaurants, Chomchan has flourished with its own charming character and younger ambience. Situated in a small white house with its leafy façade, the interior is a blend of modern Sino-Portuguese with antique decoration. Some dishes are shared with the other restaurants but do try the fried crab's spawn with chilli, pepper and garlic, steamed mince pork with salted egg and Thai paste with pork crackling.
Chuan Chim
One of the oldest food shops in Phuket is now run by the second generation. The seafood is fresh, while the signature stir-fry is rich in aroma and delicate in flavour. Don't miss the stir-fried basil with minced pork or chicken, or the impressive crispy fish topped with gravy.
Go Benz
A destination for both locals and out-of-town food lovers, Go Benz has been serving its speciality pork with peppery broth and rice noodles for over 20 years. Crispy pork is also a must-try. Be warned, the shop is packed every night, so come early before dishes sell out.
Hong Khao Tom Pla
The look is somewhere between a restaurant and snack shop, and it's named after its signature fish porridge. However, we recommend keeping room for the deep-fried fish with pickled cabbage (Pla Phat Kiem Chai) and the rich, robust crab curry (Pu Phat Phong Ka Ri).
Mor Mu Dong
Despite its simple name, the food here is anything but, with its signature dish, Pla Tu Yat Sai or stuffed fish, so much more than what first meets the eye. The flesh is scraped out and bones removed, before a strong chilli paste is mixed through to add flavour; stuffed back inside, the fish is then fried whole until crispy.
Merging her fashion design background with a love of food, owner Khun Prang has created a big-hearted dining experience with a distinct vintage feel. The 19th-century building sets the scene, as do antiquities from bygone days scattered about, while the food is authentically Phuket, comprising family recipes from Grandma to Auntie over 3 generations. Do order their famous Mu Hong and Mu Kua Kluea (deep-fried pork shoulder with salt).
Raya
No trip to Phuket would be complete without trying the local delicacies at Raya. Situated in a charming 130-year-old house, the cooking is homely yet elegant, with high quality ingredients and attention to detail. Try the Moo Hong (slow-braised pork belly with pepper and garlic) and Gaeng Pu Bai Cha Plu (fresh crab meat in coconut milk). If you want to experience spicy southern flavours, order the yellow curry with fish and coconut shoots.
Roti Taew Nam
Created as a communal breakfast spot, all roti here comes from one huge charcoal flat pan and one guy shapes, fries, taps and cuts faster than the eye can see. Order code numbers stand for the number of roti to eggs. Don't miss the tender beef curry, which is also good.
The relaxed dining room exudes boho chic with a mural painted by the owner Pang. The original and creative menu changes monthly, reflecting global influences. From duck ravioli to sea bass tempura, owner-chef Tom executes every course masterfully, blending flavours, temperatures and textures intriguingly, with a deft hand in exquisite plating. Finish off with the dessert of the day. There are only eight tables so reservations are recommended.
Ta Tuay
Located near Sarasin Bridge that links Phuket to the mainland, this friendly neighbourhood shop is made up of two corrugated iron-roofed houses set in a tropical garden with water features. On the menu, seafood and shellfish is heavily featured, such as crab, fish, cockles, squid, prawns and sand worms, all very fresh and perfectly cooked. Ask to see the catch of the day before ordering. The owner Maneeporn provides friendly, humble service.
The Charm
Growing up in his family's food business, young owner Buriphat has been passionate about southern Thai-Peranakan food since childhood, with dreams of elevating beloved recipes to new heights. Opened in 2018, The Charm succeeds with carefully selected ingredients skilfully cooked using traditional methods to extract and preserve original flavours. Try the Penang-style fish curry or the intense yet sophisticated shrimp paste with poached shrimp meat.
