Elephant Cafe' by Tan

Elephant Cafe’ by Tan is a cozy spot in Karon, Phuket — just a short walk from the beach and right next to the Paradox Hotel. The café is clean, neat, and tastefully decorated, and the dining area stays pleasantly cool even during the day thanks to the many fans.

The menu blends Thai and European cuisine, ranging from som tam and tom yum to burgers, borscht, and breakfast bowls. Portions are generous, plating is tidy, and orders usually arrive quickly. There are kid-friendly options as well as vegetarian and vegan dishes, and a Russian-language menu is available.

Its biggest strengths are bold Thai flavors and noodle dishes. Curries are particularly good (including massaman and green curry), along with pad thai, pineapple fried rice, and shrimp fried rice served with impressively large prawns. Khao Soi — a dish you don’t often see on local menus — is also worth trying, as are the fried prawns and grilled fish. For drinks, guests often choose shakes, mango smoothies, Thai tea, and fresh coconut water.

Prices are generally reasonable for Karon, although a few items may feel a bit pricier than expected; VAT is sometimes added to the bill. Service is usually polite, though during busy hours the staff can seem less warm. The owner, Chef Tan, also runs Thai cooking classes.