Phuket is a dream destination for travelers. One aspect of Phuket that should not be overlooked is its incredible seafood. The island is home to a plethora of seafood restaurants, each offering a unique dining experience. Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or just looking to savor the flavors of the ocean, here are some of the best seafood restaurants in Phuket to add to your must-visit list
Ko Ang Seafood
Location: 226 Mu 2, Phuket Road, Talad Yai, Phuket, 83000, Thailand
Ko Ang Seafood, once a humble shop with a zinc roof, has evolved into one of Phuket’s most popular seafood restaurants. Chef-owner Go Ang crafts an extensive southern Thai menu that showcases the freshest catches of the day. Blue swimming crab, horseshoe crab, and mantis shrimp are sourced daily from local markets. Don’t miss the steamed crab with tangy seafood dip or the fried mantis shrimp with garlic. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Southern Thai spicy sour soup with seabass. The restaurant’s comfortable interior and Chinese décor add to the overall dining experience.
Beyond its exceptional cuisine, what sets Ko Ang Seafood apart is its diverse selection of seafood. You’ll encounter some unique shellfish that may be unfamiliar to first-time visitors, such as horseshoe crab and sea cicada. While prices might seem slightly higher than average, the freshness and culinary expertise justify the cost. For newcomers to Phuket, it’s a delightful treat, but be sure to specify your desired spice level, as some dishes can be quite fiery.
What to Order
Ko Ang offers a wide range of seafood options to suit various preferences. For those looking for more traditional choices, fish and prawns are excellent picks. However, if you’re eager to try local favorites, consider these chef-recommended dishes:
- Gaeng Som Nuea Pla Yod Maprao: A fish fillet sour soup with coconut shoots.
- Pla Mor Lhee Nung See Ew: Steamed fish with soy sauce.
- Goong Kapi Sator: Stir-fried shrimp with fermented shrimp paste and ‘stinky beans.’
One standout dish is the Gaeng Som Nuea Pla Yod Maprao, a pungent, sour, and super spicy fish curry with pieces of coconut, known for its unique orange color. It’s a must-try once you adjust to the spice level.
The Crab House
Location: Phuket
For devoted crab enthusiasts, The Crab House is a must-visit destination. This restaurant boasts the freshest and most delectable crab dishes sourced from local fishmongers who bring in seafood daily from the Andaman Sea. All the crabs served here are live, ensuring the utmost freshness and flavor. You can even spot them in the tanks within the restaurant.
While crabs take center stage at The Crab House, the restaurant also offers a diverse selection of other seafood options, all prepared with a Thai-Chinese fusion twist. Whether you’re a crab connoisseur or simply looking for outstanding seafood, this restaurant has something for everyone.
As you stroll along Phungmuang Sai Gor Road in Patong, keep an eye out for the massive red crab mascot outside The Crab House. You won’t want to miss the chance to indulge in a crab feast here.
Maimorn Forest Restaurant
Location: Phuket Bus Terminal area
Maimorn Forest Cafe Bar and Restaurant offers a unique dining experience that combines delicious southern Thai and local cuisine with a charming forest garden setting. The restaurant’s interior features simulated waterfalls, mist sprayers, and beautifully arranged corners that create a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for inviting friends or family to savor good food and enjoy beautiful music.
The restaurant boasts four distinct seating areas:
- Large alcove (with a glass tank below for fish viewing) near the waterfall.
- Small VIP-style booths in a cool, air-conditioned room.
- An outdoor star-viewing area, where you can dine amidst a gentle breeze.
- Karaoke rooms, both small and large, for those in search of entertainment.
Maimorn Forest Cafe Bar and Restaurant is conveniently located in the heart of the city near Phuket Bus Terminal, making it easily accessible. With a wide array of delicious Southern and local dishes, this restaurant ensures you’ll have a memorable dining experience.
Laem Hin Seafood Restaurant
Location: 90/11 Moo 7, Soi Baan Leamhin, Thepkasattri Road, Koh Kaew, Phuket 83200 Thailand
Laem Hin Seafood Restaurant is renowned for its picturesque setting, delectable Thai cuisine, and affordably priced freshly caught seafood. It’s the perfect place for a casual dinner night out in a unique location.
Perched on Phuket’s East Coast at the end of Laem Hin Pier, Laem Hin Seafood Restaurant offers an extraordinary dining experience. Its outdoor terrace is built right over the water, providing panoramic views of Coconut Island and a serene ambiance that’s ideal for unwinding and enjoying a meal while watching the sunset.
Local residents favor Laem Hin Seafood Restaurant for its exceptional selection of Thai dishes, especially its fresh, firm, sweet, and delicious seafood. Some of the standout menu items include fried sea bass with fish sauce, dense black crab, and a variety of seafood served with delightful sauces. With the capacity to accommodate up to 500 guests, this restaurant is also a popular choice for hosting events and parties.
Kru Suwit Floating Restaurant
Location: Near Koh Maphrao (Coconut Island)
Kru Suwit Floating Restaurant offers a unique dining experience just minutes away from Phuket Island. Situated near Koh Maphrao, this floating restaurant can be reached via a free longtail boat ride from Phuket. The serene setting, fresh seafood, and generous portions make it a fantastic choice for a memorable meal.
Floating restaurants in Phuket provide an extraordinary way to enjoy delicious food with picturesque views. At Kru Suwit, you can savor a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes while taking in the breathtaking surroundings. Start your meal with a freshly picked coconut, followed by mouthwatering southern and central Thai seafood dishes.
One highlight is the grouper soup with Chinese soybean paste, which offers a unique and delicious flavor profile. Another must-try is the stir-fried black tiger prawns with salt and chili. The close proximity of the restaurant to the sea ensures that the seafood is as fresh as it gets.
To reach Kru Suwit Floating Restaurant, head to Laem Hin Port, which is marked on maps. Just before reaching Laem Hin Seafood Restaurant, you’ll find a small dirt road marked “Private Rd” on the right. Follow it to the longtail boats, where you can catch a ride to the floating restaurants. These boat transfers are complimentary and make for an exciting part of the experience.
Mor Mu Dong
Location: 9/4 Mu 3 Soi Pa Lai, Chao Fa Road, Chalong, Phuket, 83130, Thailand
Mor Mu Dong Restaurant derives its name from its owner, Mor, and its location along the Mu Dong Canal. Nestled within a mangrove forest, the restaurant features rustic pavilions where diners can enjoy seafood while taking in the changing tide views. The restaurant’s open kitchen showcases live seafood in tanks, ensuring the freshness of the dishes.
The signature dish at Mor Mu Dong is the Pla Tu Yat Sai, a spicy stuffed fish. Additionally, the stir-fried squid with lime is highly recommended. This restaurant is a local favorite, and its menu includes a variety of hot and spicy dishes. While the food here leans toward the spicier side, diners can request milder options to suit their taste preferences.
To find Mor Mu Dong Restaurant, head to Soi Palai, located just past where the Phuket Zoo used to be. After a short drive down this street, you’ll encounter Mor Mu Dong on your right, making it a convenient spot to enjoy authentic Thai seafood.
Kan Eang @ Pier
Location: Phuket
Kan Eang @ Pier is a legendary seafood restaurant that has been serving Phuket locals and visitors for 50 years. It has earned a reputation for its authentic local flavors and the freshness of its seafood, which is sourced directly from local fishermen. This restaurant combines traditional tastes with modern amenities, catering to tourists and a new generation of Phuket residents who seek delicious food in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Recommended Menu: Phuket Local Food
Kan Eang @ Pier is known for its commitment to preserving the traditional flavors of Phuket’s local cuisine. Here are some of the standout dishes:
- Grass Chong (Freshwater Seaweed) with Shrimp: This unique dish features grass chong, a rare plant that grows in clean, flowing streams. It’s coated in a batter containing curry paste and fried with fresh shrimp. The dish is served with the restaurant’s original sweet and sour dipping sauce, creating a delightful blend of flavors.
- Boiled Ghost Chicken: This local favorite boasts fragrant soup with galangal, lemongrass, shallots, fresh green chilies, tamarind juice, and the restaurant’s secret recipe.
- Shrimp Paste: Savor the rich flavors of shrimp skewers and shrimp paste, made from carefully selected ingredients and served with various local vegetables.
Recommended Menu: Phuket Seafood
Kan Eang @ Pier offers an extensive selection of seafood dishes, including:
- Tiger Prawn Sashimi: Indulge in freshly selected tiger prawns, prepared to be bouncy, crispy, and naturally sweet.
- Lobster Sashimi: Taste the exceptional quality of Phuket’s seven-colored lobsters, known for their firm, juicy, and naturally sweet meat.
- Stir-fried Black Crab with Black Pepper: This dish features black crab with firm, sweet meat, meticulously prepared to impress every diner.
Kan Eang @ Pier is not only a restaurant but also a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Phuket. With its commitment to preserving traditional flavors and offering a wide range of delectable dishes, it continues to be a beloved dining destination on the island.
Bang Pae Seafood
Location: Phuket
Bang Pae Seafood is a hidden gem located on the east coast of Phuket, away from the tourist crowds. Despite its somewhat challenging location, this local restaurant has garnered a ‘Bib Gourmand’ rating in the Phuket Michelin Guide, indicating its status as a friendly establishment serving excellent food at moderate prices.
The restaurant offers a simple yet attractive setting, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely Sunday lunch. What truly sets it apart is its location on the edge of a mangrove forest, with the open sea providing a breathtaking backdrop. Despite occasional crowds, there’s a palpable sense of peace, allowing you to savor every moment.
Phuket’s seafood scene is a true testament to the island’s rich culinary heritage and its ability to cater to diverse tastes. These restaurants offer a variety of seafood experiences, from casual dining to elegant settings, all while highlighting the incredible flavors of the sea. No matter which one you choose, you’re in for a memorable seafood feast in Phuket.