Nam Yoi

Nam Yoi is a perfect example of how a passion for food can turn an ordinary eatery into a Michelin-recognized restaurant. It all began as a small family café where dishes were cooked upon guests’ requests. Over time, it grew into a charming open-air restaurant — but it has managed to keep what matters most: its soul and that unmistakable sense of home warmth.

Despite its growing popularity, Nam Yoi remains a family-run business. The key figure is the family’s aunt — who also happens to be the head chef. Every morning, she personally goes to the market to choose the freshest ingredients and ensures that every dish is made exactly as it should be.

Nam Yoi’s interior is a spacious, greenery-filled pavilion. There are no crystal glasses or designer chairs here: plastic seats, simple tableware, and the gentle hum of the street create a special atmosphere of the real Thailand — lively, colorful, and authentic.

The menu is a true ode to Southern Thai cuisine. Portions are generous, presentation is unpretentious, but the flavors are bold and full of character. Even if you ask for “not spicy”, a touch of heat will remain — without it, Thai food would lose its soul.

Try the river snail curry, spicy fried mushrooms, or braised pork — these are the dishes that earned the restaurant its fame and a well-deserved place in the Michelin Guide.

The best time to visit Nam Yoi is in the morning, when it’s less crowded and you can chat with the chef — she often comes out to ask guests if they enjoyed their meal. By lunchtime and evening, the place is bustling: Nam Yoi has long become a must-visit spot in Phuket.