5 Atmospheric Cafes and Restaurants in the Jungle
Phuket is not just about the sea — it’s also about the jungle. And hidden within this tropical calm are special spots — cafes and restaurants where nature literally becomes part of the interior. Here’s a selection of jungle cafes with views that are a perfect 10 out of 10.
1. The Tree House in Anantara
Geo on Google Maps (Mai Khao)
Working hours:
Website | Book a table
The Japanese restaurant is located on the grounds of Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas and is literally “built into” a tree — a spiral staircase winds around the trunk leading up to it. The interior is designed so that the feeling of being “surrounded by nature” is preserved, while still offering comfort and style.
From above, there’s a 360° panoramic view of the lagoons, gardens, and tropical greenery of the resort — sunsets, warm evening air, and tranquility replace the bustle of the city.
The restaurant follows the omakase format. This is a Japanese dining concept where the guest fully trusts the chef to choose the dishes. The chef prepares everything right in front of you, selecting dishes in a specific sequence — from the most delicate and subtle flavors to the richer, more intense ones.
The chef focuses on seasonality and textures, and each course is served with a brief story — explaining why these ingredients were chosen and how to best experience their flavors. In general, the ingredients are taken very seriously — some are even imported directly from Japan. The menu offers two sets: 8 or 12 courses. The drinks match the level of the cuisine — rare sake and Japanese-inspired cocktails pair perfectly with the dinner and the overall atmosphere.
There are only a few seats at The Tree House, so the dinner feels like a private gastronomic performance. This is one of those cases where the restaurant isn’t just a place — it’s a complete, self-contained experience.
2. Three Monkeys
Geo on Google Maps (Phuket Town)
Working hours: Mon - Sun: 10:00 - 01:00
Website | Menu | Book a table
One of the most popular jungle restaurants in Phuket. It is located on the grounds of the Hanuman World rope park — in one of the greenest areas of the island. The Three Monkeys building is a multi-level wooden structure with terraces and balconies, perched on a hillside among the trees, offering incredible views of the surroundings. In general, it’s one of the most photogenic spots in Phuket — with bridges, hanging areas, and viewpoints overlooking the jungle.
Here, you really feel like a part of the wilderness – all the materials used in the decor are natural: wood, straw, leaves. No plastic tables or chairs!
The restaurant was born out of the founders’ passion for authentic Thai cuisine. The menu places special emphasis on fresh local ingredients, prepared with exceptional skill to bring out their unique, vibrant flavors. Must-try dishes include tom yum, massaman curry, seafood salads, and signature Thai-style desserts. The menu also features several Japanese and Western options.
The main highlight of Three Monkeys is its atmosphere. The restaurant is perfect for special occasions, especially if you enjoy that island vibe. It’s best to book your visit in advance, as the place is truly popular.
3. Black Ginger
Geo on Google Maps (Mai Khao)
Working hours: Mon - Sun: 17:30 - 23:00
Website | Menu | Book a table
The avant-garde restaurant is located in an elegant Thai mansion on a tiny island in the middle of the jungle. Black Ginger is a vivid embodiment of Thai haute cuisine, set in a dramatic, almost theatrical space designed by Bill Bensley. The interior, inspired by the aesthetics of the Ayutthaya era, combines traditional architecture, contemporary design, and luxury, where every detail contributes to the overall impression. Here, dining becomes a full cultural experience: not just a meal, but an immersion into the deeper layers of Thai gastronomic heritage.
Black Ginger’s cuisine draws on the rich palette of flavors from Phuket and southern Thailand. The kitchen is led by chef Anongrat Meklai, known as Chef Piak. She carefully preserves classic Thai techniques while interpreting them in a more refined and contemporary way.
The philosophy of the restaurant’s cuisine is based on simplicity perfected: familiar flavors are brought out deeper, clearer, and more vividly.
Among the signature dishes are crispy tempura prawns with cha-plu leaves in a sweet chili sauce, as well as the famous spring rolls: filled with tender crab meat or juicy pork, served with chili puree, tamarind, honey, and fresh herbs.
Black Ginger is not just a dinner, but a carefully crafted journey through the flavors and traditions of Phuket, where every detail, from the interior to the final touch on the plate, makes the evening truly unforgettable.
An important note: the restaurant has a dress code – guests are required to dress in smart casual style.
4. Peang Prai
Geo on Google Maps (Pa Klok)
Working hours:
Facebook | Menu
Hidden deep in the tropical forest, Peang Prai welcomes guests immediately after a walk to Bang Pae Waterfall. Two wooden pavilions, connected by a terrace walkway, seem to float above the green lagoon and jungle, while the air is filled with the calls of birds and gibbons. From the terrace, there is a breathtaking view of the waterfall and surrounding greenery – the perfect place to forget the hustle and fully immerse yourself in nature.
The restaurant is Michelin-rated, which means mediocre food is unlikely here. The focus is on Thai and Southern Thai cuisine. Must-try dishes include pandan leaf chicken, fried rice, crab meat omelet, and tom yum.
Every dish and every detail of the interior here create the feeling of a small gastronomic adventure – dining at Peang Prai becomes a true journey through the flavors and nature of the island, where every moment is worth capturing and remembering. And yes, despite its prestige and authentic vibe, the prices here are very reasonable.
5. Jungle Cafe & Hideaway Bar
Geo on Google Maps (Kathu)
Working hours: Mon - Tue: 10:00 - 20:00; Thu - Sun: 10:00 - 20:00
The cafe is located near Kathu Waterfall, so people often stop by after a walk – the perfect place to relax in the shade. Hidden deep in the forest, it feels like a secret spot.
Here, the tables are literally set over the water, surrounded by the sound of falling water, tropical birds, and the rhythm of nature. The interior creates a distinct feeling of being in a secluded jungle gallery: natural materials, greenery, and soft lighting.
The cafe is perfect for a romantic lunch, a leisurely dinner in nature, or a snack after a walk.
The cuisine here is simple but genuine: Thai dishes, fresh ingredients, light desserts, and signature drinks. Must-try – pad Thai, which is excellent here. The prices are also a pleasant surprise – especially nice when you pay little for outstanding quality.
Why choose places in the jungle
- Such cafes and restaurants are not just about food, but about atmosphere: greenery, natural sounds, tropical air, the breath of nature. Here, food becomes part of a complete experience.
- Unlike beach spots or noisy bars, jungle restaurants offer a sense of privacy, calm, and unhurriedness – something often missing during the busy tourist season.
- Jungle venues are suitable for various occasions: a romantic dinner, a family lunch, relaxation after an active day, or simply a desire to be alone.
- On a hot day, these places are an excellent choice: it’s cooler in the jungle.
Choose the best cafes and restaurants in Phuket in the dedicated section, along with many other options to make your vacation bright and unforgettable!
