Michelin on a budget – it’s possible

Phuket has budget-friendly cafes that are featured in the famous Michelin Guide. This means the food is guaranteed to be delicious. Insider recommends what you absolutely must try.

Ton Mayom

Google Maps rating: 4.7

This place is renowned for its traditional Thai cuisine. A fiery dish in every sense — a signature dish with shrimp, onions and spicy chili peppers.

Nam YOI Restaurant

Google Maps rating: 4.6

What was once a humble diner is now an open-air restaurant. They serve classic homemade dishes made from the freshest ingredients. We especially recommend the Phuket-style braised pork belly, recognized by the Michelin Guide.

Krua Praya Thai Restaurant

Google Maps rating: 4.6

Traditional Phuket cuisine at its best. Must-eats include Krua Praya chicken wings, Tom Yum, and curry.

The Charm Dining Gallery

Google Maps rating: 4.6

A genuine interpretation of Thai-Peranakan cuisine. Be sure to try the fish curry and Bai Maing leaves with crispy shrimp.

Ka Moo Boran

Google Maps rating: 4.5

The signature dish of this establishment, which attracts both locals and tourists, is the slow-braised pork knuckle with spices. You won’t find meat more tender than this!

Mor Mu Dong Restaurant

Google Maps rating: 4.4

Located in a mangrove forest with incredible views. They serve southern Thai cuisine with the freshest seafood. The highlights of the place are the spicy stuffed fish and fried squid – a true gem among Michelin-starred restaurants in Phuket.

Currently, 56 restaurants in Phuket are listed in the Michelin Guide. In 2025, the guide welcomed new entries such as hom (InterContinental Resort), Jaras (InterContinental Resort), Nitan, and Tambu (Avista Hideaway Patong).

Phuket has only one restaurant with a Michelin Star — PRU. All others fall into different categories.

The Green Star was once again awarded to PRU, as well as to Jampa. This distinction is given to restaurants that emphasize sustainability, eco-friendliness, collaboration with local farmers, and use of seasonal ingredients.

The Bib Gourmand category includes cafés and restaurants that offer excellent food at a reasonable price — 18 Phuket establishments earned this recognition.

All remaining restaurants fall under the Michelin Plate category, which highlights venues offering quality, tasty food but without a star. Essentially, it’s a Michelin stamp of approval — places that are worth visiting, even if they’re not in the top tier.

You’ll find other top-rated spots in our guides to the Best Cafes and Restaurants in Phuket and 6 Restaurants with the Best Views in Phuket.

A complete guide to the best places in Phuket in our Telegram bot: https://t.me/phuket_insider_bot