Trusted neighbour
This is where it all began! In 2012 we were on holiday in Mai Khao Beach and stayed at the lovely Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa – which then became our neighbour. At that time the building works of Baan Mai Khao (the condominium building of our apartment) had not yet started but we got to visit the sales gallery of the building project and so the seed got planted…
Ok, back to the topic! Renaissance hosts a couple of restaurants which we’ve become regular guests at. Our absolute favourite is Takieng, a contemporary Thai restaurant on the 2nd floor of the beachfront building. Takieng succeeds in being at the same time casual and chic – and what’s best, the food is great and it is only a few steps from our apartment. Try one of their curries or our number one pick: deep fried soft-shell crab with Thai spices.
True locals
We have two go-to places when we crave for local and authentic Thai (sea)food: Laem Sai Seafood and Jakkajan Seafood.
Laem Sai Seafood is off the beaten track, but well known among the locals. It is 30 minutes ride away from our apartment but the food definitely is worth the effort. Restaurant is built on the deck on the seashore and seafood couldn’t be any more “fresh to table”. What we often do: enjoy the lunch or dinner on spot and buy take-away food for a couple of meals to-go. Good prices and great quality!
Jakkajan Seafood is closer, only 10 minutes away, and what’s even better: they offer free delivery service to our apartment for orders above THB 1000. If you are only two persons, as we often are, you may want to stock food for 2-3 meals in one order to reach the price of THB 1000 baht to qualify for the free delivery. In 30-60 minutes from the order, a boy will show up at the lobby with his motor bike and bags full of Jakkajan’s delicacies. A pro tip: Try their deep fried Jakkajans – tiny crabs which go well together with a cold local beer…
Charming heritage dining
Our recent find and a place to absolutely recommend is Toh-Daeng restaurant at Baan Ar-Jor, less than minutes ride (or even a walk or bicycle ride!) from our apartment. A family run heritage museum homestay hosted with dedication and great respect to family’s history. When entering the restaurant you are greeted as a friend and not only a customer and will experience excellent contemporary Phuket food which is true to its roots and tradition.
Michelin noted experiences
You may not be aware that Michelin has recently covered Phuket and noted some great local restaurants as well as simple eateries in their books. One of these, nearby our apartment, is Ta Tuay a family run restaurant awarded with Bib Gourmand, a label of Michelin inspectors’ favourite for good value. What we like here is – of course the food – but also the casual setting of tables inside their lush garden.
