The Samkong area of Phuket is the place to visit for proper Thai food - this is where the locals go and the locals always know best.

This area is made up of Yaowarat Road from old Phuket to the Bypass Road and is filled with small eateries offering quick (and cheap) food which some consider better than the more expensive restaurants nearby.

Visitors shouldn't be put off by queues; Thais love their food so if there's a place where they are all going then that is where you should be going too.

However, many of the places here don't have menus in English, so unless you really want to be surprised it's best to remember the name of your favourite dishes.

There is a large Muslim population in the area, which is reflected in the cuisine and adds to the variety on offer, especially in the case of Kaao Moek, a turmeric-flavoured rice.

So when you want to be properly adventurous and not get dinner in your Phuket hotel, make sure to head to the Samkong district for some delicious Thai food.


30/09/2008