The Tree House in Anantara

The Tree House at Anantara in Phuket is an intimate treehouse-style restaurant and bar, built quite literally around a large banyan tree. The venue is open-air and not air-conditioned: in the evening you can feel the sea breeze, lanterns light up the space, and the armchairs and sofas by the counter look out over a pond and the surrounding garden. Seating is limited (around 20 guests, roughly ten tables), which gives it a private, quiet feel — better suited to a relaxed dinner, a date, or a late cocktail than to a loud group night out.

The kitchen focuses on set menus and live preparation, with a central area that feels like a chef’s table. The main highlight is a Japanese omakase served as an 8- or 12-course experience, featuring sashimi and nigiri, seafood (including oysters and sea urchin), white fish dishes, miso soup, and desserts — green tea included. Presentation is polished and theatrical, and the fish is notably fresh. There are also alternative options inspired by Indian and Arab cuisines — for instance, biryani and creative, spice-driven signature desserts.

Service matches the standards of a five-star resort: the team is attentive, walks guests through each dish in detail, helps with drink pairings, and creates a sense of occasion.

A few things to keep in mind: it’s definitely on the pricey side (both cocktails and tasting menus), and the set-menu portions may feel small to some. On hot, humid days the open-air setting can get a bit stuffy, and mosquito repellent is a good idea. Booking in advance is recommended.