Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, is a paradise for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and culture vultures. But what about foodies with a craving for fragrant curries and sizzling tandoori? While Phuket is known for its delectable Thai cuisine, you might be surprised to find a vibrant Indian food scene as well.
Finding a hotel with Indian food on the menu might be uncommon, but fret not! Here’s how to enjoy the best of both worlds:
1. Location, Location, Location!
Phuket offers a range of areas, each with its own charm. Patong Beach is the liveliest, with plenty of restaurants lining the streets. Look for hotels like the Royal Paradise Hotel & Spa, featuring the Casablanca Restaurant with its delicious Indian specialties.
For a quieter experience, consider areas like Kamala or Kata. Here, you might not find Indian restaurants within the hotels themselves, but there are fantastic independent options nearby.
2. Embrace the Local Flavors
While a hotel with Indian breakfast might be rare, most will offer room service where you can order from nearby restaurants. This opens you up to a wider selection of Indian cuisine, often at very reasonable prices.
3. Explore the Restaurant Scene
Phuket boasts a surprising number of excellent Indian restaurants. Let’s be honest, sometimes you just want a dedicated Indian food experience. The beauty of this approach is you can choose a hotel based on other criteria, like proximity to the beach or amenities, and then find your perfect Indian dinner spot nearby. Here are a few highly-rated options:
- LPK Hotel & Restaurant: This Kathu District gem is both a hotel and a fantastic Indian restaurant, praised for its authenticity and friendly service.
- Bollywood Phuket Restaurant & Bar: Located in Phuket Town, Bollywood offers a stylish ambiance alongside a diverse menu of North and Central Indian dishes.
- Amritsr Old Town: This Phuket Town favorite serves up delicious curries, biryanis, and tandoori fare in a casual setting.
The Verdict: Flexibility is Key
While finding a Phuket hotel with Indian food directly on-site might be a challenge, there are excellent workarounds. With a little planning and exploration, you can easily combine your love of Thai beaches with the delicious flavors of India!
Bonus Tip: Many Indian restaurants in Phuket offer vegetarian and vegan options, so dietary restrictions needn’t limit your choices.
