YiLin

YiLin is a small café in Phuket Old Town, close to the museum — handy as a starting point for a walk or a relaxed place to wrap one up. Inside it’s clean and cozy, with comfortable seating and a calm, homey atmosphere.

The menu is extensive, covering both hearty dishes and sweets, with plenty of Southern Thai options alongside noodles and rice. The food here feels properly homemade — simple, unpretentious, and full of flavor, often tasty enough that you won’t need extra sauces or seasonings. Dishes like Pad Thai, soy-sauce noodles, dumpling soup, stir-fried morning glory with shrimp paste, sour curry, and fish with herbs and spices all pair well with hot rice.

The dim sum is especially worth trying: 25 baht per basket, with generously sized pieces. Their congee comes in a big bowl and is mild and well-balanced — not spicy — making it a good choice if you want a break from heat. There are solid meat options too, such as “Empress Pork” and rice with a pork cutlet, and anyone who likes eggs will find good dishes topped with a fried egg. Bread is served warm; iced tea is a popular drink choice, and ice cream makes a simple dessert.

Portions are large and prices are straightforward. The staff are friendly. There’s no air conditioning and no alcohol, and it’s best to confirm any add-ons in advance to avoid surprises on the bill.