Phuket's Must-Eat Dishes

What to Eat in Phuket – A Local Food Guide You Can't Miss

Phuket isn't just a paradise of beaches and nightlife — it's a true foodie destination with deep culinary roots and a flavor-packed street food culture. As Phuket becomes increasingly diverse with travelers, digital nomads, and retirees from around the world, the island's cuisine remains one of its most authentic and unifying experiences. From hidden noodle shops to vibrant night markets, the food in Phuket tells the story of its multicultural heritage — Thai, Chinese, Malay, and Peranakan flavors all blend beautifully on one plate. The island's dishes are a living heritage of its multicultural port town history. That's why food here's not just about taste — it's about culture, story, and community.

Must-Try Local Dishes in Phuket

1. Mee Hokkien (หมี่ฮกเกี้ยน)

Stir-fried yellow noodles packed with seafood, pork, and egg, often topped with crispy pork and served with lime and chili vinegar. Try this Phuket staple at the legendary Mee Ton Poe (หมี่ต้นโพธิ์) near the Clock Tower.

2. Moo Hong (หมูฮ้อง)

This melt-in-your-mouth braised pork belly dish is slow-cooked with soy sauce, garlic, and pepper — a Fujian influence that defines southern Thai comfort food. For an authentic version, visit Raya Restaurant (ร้านอาหารระย้า) in Phuket Old Town.

3. Gaeng Som Pla (แกงส้มปลา)

A bold, sour fish curry made with turmeric and tamarind — spicy, tangy, and unforgettable. A top pick at the rustic Mor Mu Dong Restaurant (หมอมูดง), which sits near the mangroves.

4. Lo Bah (โลบะ)

A beloved Phuket Street snack made with deep-fried pork offal, served with a sweet-salty dipping sauce. Locals flock to Bang Neow (บางเหนียว) area for the best Lo Bah stalls.

5. Khanom Jeen (ขนมจีน)

Fermented rice noodles served with various types of curry — red curry, green curry, or spicy Nam Ya. Often eaten for breakfast, it is paired with fresh vegetables and herbs.

Phuket’s Traditional Sweets You Shouldn’t Skip

1. O-Aew (โอ้เอ๋ว)

This chilled dessert of banana-starch jelly, shaved ice, red beans, and syrup is uniquely Phuket and perfect for a hot afternoon.

2. Roti (โรตี)

A Muslim-Thai classic — crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. Roti can be sweet (with banana, condensed milk) or savory (served with curry).

3. Kanom Apong (ขนมอาโป้ง)

A traditional Phuket snack similar to Thai crispy pancakes, "kanom tang taek." It's a thin, crispy crepe made from flour, eggs, and sugar.

4. Tao Sor (เต้าส้อ)

A type of flaky pastry filled with either sweet or savory filling. It has a thin crust and generous filling and is one of the most popular souvenirs from Phuket.

Where to Eat – Best Markets & Local Hotspots

Explore Phuket's vibrant food markets where you'll find everything from traditional snacks to trendy food trucks:

  • Chillva Market (open Thursday–Saturday): A hip atmosphere with local bites and live music.
  • Phuket Weekend Market (Naka Market): A bustling spot on the outskirts of Phuket Town offering grilled meats, fruit shakes, seafood, and sweets.
  • Malin Plaza (Patong): Perfect for tourists, with Thai food stalls, souvenirs, and affordable local meals.
  • Sunday Walking Street Market (Lard Yai): Every Sunday evening, Thalang Road in Phuket Old Town transforms into the lively Sunday Walking Street Market. This popular weekend market draws crowds of locals, expats, and tourists who come to enjoy an unforgettable mix of authentic street food, local handicrafts, live performances, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Would you prefer to eat in your hotel or by the beach? These food delivery apps in Phuket are convenient and reliable:

  • GrabFood – Offers a vast selection of local and international cuisine.
  • Food Panda – Widely used across the island, suitable for deals.
  • Robinhood – Thai-based app with low delivery fees and many local vendors.

Foodie Tips for First-Time Visitors

  • Explore Phuket Old Town – The heart of Phuket's culinary tradition, with historic eateries, bakeries, and cafés.
  • Try Street Food Without Fear – It's tasty, affordable, and often cleaner than expected!
  • Ask the Locals – A quick chat with a taxi driver or street vendor can lead you to hidden food gems.
  • Be Bold, Be Curious – Skip the comfort food and dive into the world of local Thai flavors, featuring spicy, sour, and sweet delights!