Phuket, often referred to as 'the pearl of the Andaman,' is not solely a destination for beach enthusiasts. It also holds a treasure trove of delights for food enthusiasts in search of unique culinary experiences. The blend of Thai, Chinese, and Malay influences embraced by Phuket has given rise to the exquisite Peranakan cuisine.
Yet, the culinary culture here is even more distinct. Phuket boasts its own abundant reserves of fresh seafood, the coveted secret behind its sought-after deliciousness. Joining us as our guest local guide is Chef Tammasak 'Noi' Chootong of Suay (Cherngtalay), a featured establishment in the MICHELIN Guide 2023. Chef Chootong will take us to places where you can savor the freshest seafood, some of which are cherished secrets known only to discerning locals.
Shop local like a chef
“People know they can get great food in Phuket Old Town. But the unexplored Thalang is really charming. I’m originally from Phang-Nga, but moved to Phuket to open a restaurant there. The markets in Thalang, especially those mostly frequented by locals, offer seasonal ingredients you rarely see in regular restaurants. There’s fish they don’t normally serve.”Chef Chootong introduces Phuket’s charming spots you can visit during the drive to Thalang from the Old Town. Surin Beach and Sirinat National Park are known for their crystal clear water and fine sand. In Thalang, a small market called ‘Baan Pon’, short for ‘Go Beng Baan Pon’, opens 3 days a week. This hyperlocal bazaar becomes lively on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from late afternoon until late at night. Fresh seafood that comes straight from the boats fishermen just dock is the real treasure.
"I love walking around local markets. Even after 13 years as a chef, I still visit markets myself. Naturally, when you expand, you'll have suppliers delivering certain ingredients to our restaurants. However, I consistently encourage chefs and staff to explore local markets. It's an essential aspect of a chef's role. Fortunately, we are not far from Baan Pon Market. When you encounter something new, it sparks inspiration and fuels creativity."
Chef Chootong also suggests places to get fresh seafood around Phuket. In the morning, quality fresh seafood from Ko Sire (pronounced Si-Lay) are available at Downtown Market and Kaset Market. These large markets open as early as 3 or 4am. Cherngtalay’s Baan Pon is for afternoon shopping. The fun is in the unexpected. Chef Chootong says he is always surprised by changing ingredients that also reflect the seasons.
"Baan Pon offers a variety of seasonal ingredients such as sand smelt, trevally, groupers, and red-banded grouper. There is also tuna from the Andaman Sea, as well as snapper. Vegetables like green caviar, baegu, vegetable fern, and other local greens are also available. You can even find the renowned Phuket lobster. Its size may not be as large as the imported ones, but the texture is firm, and the quality is superb. At Suay, we create a Phuket-style paella using the local lobster."
Another hidden gem is Wat Manik Market in Thalang. Although small, the seafood quality here is top tier. Shopping here also means supporting the local fishing Baan Manik Community so that tourists can get a glimpse of traditional lifestyle.
Phuket’s timeless charm
"For me, Phuket is already complete. It offers nature, seas, public and private beaches, along with excellent infrastructure. The accommodation ranges from 5-star hotels to more affordable options. When it comes to food, you can enjoy local eateries, Michelin-starred restaurants, beach clubs, and bars. Phuket caters to every tourist's diverse needs. I recommend including local markets, whether big or small, in your itineraries. Witness the uniqueness of each local community and district firsthand. While the Old Town and Walking Street may be more popular, your appreciation for Phuket will grow even stronger as you explore these local markets."For updates on travel destinations, contact TAT Call Center 1672, or Facebook TAT Contact Center.
Illustration image: © Chahatchai Limsuparerk/ MICHELIN Guide Thailand
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