The Must-Try Food in Phuket, Thailand

Exploring Phuket’s Culinary Wonders: Unmissable Delights and Street Food Treasures:

Phuket, the tropical paradise, captivates not only with its pristine beaches and breathtaking vistas but also with its rich and diverse cuisine. The streets of Phuket are alive with the aromas of fresh seafood, exotic spices, and local flavors, inviting visitors to embark on a unique gastronomic adventure. In this article, we will take a journey into the sweet and savory realm of Phuket, introducing you to the absolute must-try dishes and street delights that define the island’s culinary tapestry.

Before delving into the mysterious and flavorful world of Phuket cuisine, getting acquainted with the unique tastes that grace the island’s streets sets the perfect stage for a culinary exploration. Whether you find yourself standing in front of a seaside stall or uncovering hidden street delights, be prepared to discover the palate of Phuket!

Khanom ah-pong

Any discussion about street food in Phuket invariably includes a mention of ah-pong, a delicate, wafer-thin crepe made from rice flour and coconut milk, expertly rolled up into a cigar-shaped snack.

Unfortunately, these delightful treats find themselves firmly on the endangered dishes list, becoming increasingly challenging to locate. Perhaps that’s why a queue consistently forms along Soi Soon Utis, where Ahpong Mae Sunee, a diminutive street food stall, almost single-handedly ensures ah-pong remains on the culinary map.

Here, you have the opportunity to witness the owner prepare this snack in the traditional way—skillfully swirling just the right amount of batter into six mini-woks, deftly managing each over charcoal-fueled barbecues.

Loba

For those unfamiliar, a plate of loba can be likened to taking a plunge into the resort’s pool without knowing how to swim. Yet, those daring enough to take the leap are greeted with a cherished Phuket street food— a cascading heap of nose-to-tail pork offal, meticulously braised in Chinese five spice and lightly fried.

Southeast Asian culinary treasures go beyond just flavor; they’re an exploration of textures. The chewy yet crispy morsels, complemented by a tangy tamarind sauce, deliver an exquisite sensory experience.

The epitome of this dish can be found at Loba Maeyanang along Krabi Road, opposite the Chinese Shrine. Keep in mind that it only operates from morning to mid-afternoon, so plan your visit accordingly and steer clear of the evenings.

Hokkien mee

Families visiting from Bangkok consider their trip to Phuket incomplete without savoring a bowl of steaming mee leung pad Hokkien sai kai from Lock Tien, an open-air restaurant nestled in the heart of the Old Town.

This vibrant bowl of flavors unfolds with a foundation of chewy, yellow egg noodles adorned with slices of tender, subtly sweetened barbecued red pork, lightly blanched squid, and crisp Chinese cabbage, all immersed in a luscious, smoky gravy crafted from pork broth and soy sauce.

For an even richer experience, opt for a soft-poached egg, its broken yolk coating the egg noodles and imparting a creamy texture to the dish. To tailor the flavor to your liking, don’t hesitate to experiment with table condiments like vinegar and dried chili flakes. Undoubtedly, this dish stands out as one of the finest examples of street food in Phuket.

Moo hong

Moo hong stands out as one of Southern Thailand’s most revered dishes—a delectable stew featuring tender pork belly slow-cooked in a flavorful paste. This paste comprises palm sugar, minced garlic, fragrant coriander root, and spicy black peppercorns, enriched with star anise, oyster sauce, and thick soy sauce, which imparts a subtle aniseed flavor.

Every local eatery boasts its unique recipe, ranging from sweet and sticky variations to more savory renditions with a pronounced peppery kick. While not exactly a representative of Phuket’s street food scene, the epitome of Moo hong is found at Raya, a relatively upscale restaurant nestled in the Old Town within a stunning, former Sino-Portuguese residence.

Popiah

Popiah, or Fujian-style fresh spring rolls, made their way to the island with Chinese immigrants who established their homes here.

For enthusiasts of Peking duck pancakes, the delicate flour crepes enfolding Chinese cured sausage, bean sprouts, slices of omelette, and generously coated in a thick, sweetened sauce offer a familiar yet distinctive treat. Peanuts and crispy pork skin are sometimes added for an extra layer of texture, and for a premium touch, popiah might be crowned with succulent crab meat.

For those indulging in a holiday without keeping a close eye on their diet, the deep-fried variation known as popiah tod is a tempting option. Both iterations secure a well-deserved spot on the list of the best street food in Phuket. Lock Tien, situated in the heart of Phuket Town, is renowned for crafting the finest versions of these delectable rolls.

Satay

Throughout my experience introducing foreigners to Thai cuisine, I have yet to encounter someone who doesn’t eagerly savor chicken satay, except, of course, those with a peanut allergy.

Locating excellent satay in Phuket is a breeze. Locals understand that the finest satays are marinated overnight in a mixture of coconut, turmeric, and spices before being expertly cooked over charcoal, infusing a smoky, charred flavor.

However, the true standout is the peanut sauce, ideally creamy with a subtle hint of spice. To balance the richness, a zesty ajat relish steals the spotlight, comprised of sliced cucumber, shallots, and chilies infused in a sweet vinegar dressing.

Once again, while this dish unquestionably ranks among the best street food offerings in Phuket, Mee Ton Poe, located just south of the city center, is renowned for its exceptional, smoky version of chicken satay.