The balmy breezes of Phuket carry with them the promise of an explosion of flavour. Here, Thai cuisine takes on a life of its own, characterised by bold, intense flavour profiles that linger on the tongue.
Fresh herbs plucked straight from local gardens, the rich creaminess of coconut milk, and a collection of warming spices – turmeric, galangal, garlic, lemongrass, and fragrant lime leaves – weave their magic into every dish. But what truly elevates southern Thai cuisine to legendary status is its abundance of fresh seafood, a bounty bestowed by the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea.
Best Seafood Dishes You Should Try In Phuket
While the choices may seem endless, don’t fret! We’ve curated a mouthwatering selection of some of the best seafood dishes in Phuket for you.
Por Pia Poo Tod
Set the stage with a delightful Por Pia Poo Tod. With their golden brown exteriors, these crispy spring rolls are packed with fragrant and flavourful crab filling, perfectly complemented by a sweet and savoury dipping sauce.
Gaeng Som Pla Kab Yod Ma Praw On
Next, we move on to the Gaeng Som Pla Kab Yod Ma Praw On. This stunning yellow curry is a true masterpiece – it’s sweet, sour, and spicy. Flaky white snapper is bathed in a fragrant coconut milk broth brimming with vegetables and kaffir lime leaves, creating a taste sensation that awakens all your senses.
Pla Kapong Tom Yam Haeng
The star of a southern Thai seafood spread is undoubtedly a whole steamed fish. Brace yourself for the Pla Kapong Tom Yam Haeng, a visual and flavour masterpiece. It’s a whole sea bass, steamed to perfection in an exciting, aromatic broth – a feast for the eyes. The first whiff awakens your senses with the tantalising aromas of lemongrass, galangal, and chillies, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the fish sauce and palm sugar.
Nam Prik Koong Seab
The soul of southern Thai cuisine thrives on the interplay of spice and coolness. Enter Nam Prik Koong Seab, a fiery shrimp paste condiment boasting a unique depth of flavour, achieved by smoking plump shrimp before mashing them with chillies and lemongrass. The resulting spicy dip is perfectly complemented by fresh, crisp vegetables that provide a welcome contrast and cleanse the palate between bites.
Poo Phad Phong Curry
Fresh crab is one of the best seafood items to try in Phuket. Poo Phad Phong Curry is a classic and aromatic Thai dish that marries the delicate flavours of fresh crab with the rich, warm tones of curry powder. Fresh crab is stir-fried with curry powder, garlic, onion, eggs, and sometimes milk or coconut milk, creating a creamy, thick sauce that clings to the crab meat. The result is a savoury, slightly spicy, and utterly delicious dish that goes great with steamed rice.
Pla Phad Sa-tor
Pla Phad Sa-tor is a standout dish from Southern Thailand that features the sa-tor bean, a staple ingredient in this region known for its pungent aroma and unique taste. Stir-fried with tender fish in a spicy red curry sauce, this dish masterfully balances the sa-tor’s bold flavour. Despite sa-tor’s reputation for being acquired taste, this dish truly pays homage to Southern Thai cooking, making it a must-try for anyone eager to explore Phuket’s best seafood dishes.
Try These Mouthwatering Southern Dishes At Panwa House
Phuket offers a bounty of fresh seafood, and for an unmatched ocean-to-plate dining experience, Panwa House is the restaurant to visit. This exquisite Thai fine-dining restaurant in Phuket sits within the famed five-star Cape Panwa Hotel.
Stepping into this magnificent Sino-Portuguese mansion is like entering a bygone era of elegance. Breathtaking ocean views complement the intricate architecture and luxurious decor, creating a special ambience for indulging in Phuket’s finest seafood. Our attentive and knowledgeable team ensures every aspect of your meal is flawless, making you feel like royalty.
Reserve Your Table At Panwa House Today
Panwa House is a serenade for the senses – a captivating blend of art, architecture, and, of course, the finest seafood Phuket has to offer.
Reserve your table at Panwa House today for an unforgettable fine dining experience in Phuket.
