Welcome to the Side of Phuket No One Told Me About
Phuket’s Old Town isn’t flashy. There’s no beach in sight. But somehow, this sleepy little district totally snuck up on me. One minute I was kicking myself for missing the ferry, and the next I was strolling beneath red lanterns on pastel-painted streets, grinning like a fool.
The buildings? A charming mix of Chinese shophouses and old Portuguese colonial flair. Some are a little worn, but that’s part of the magic. It feels like time moves slower here — and you kind of hope it stays that way.
Michelin Food on a Backpacker Budget
Here’s what blew me away: the food. I expected great eats in Thailand, sure — but I didn’t expect Michelin-recognized meals for just a few bucks. And no, this isn’t white-tablecloth territory. It’s the kind of food that makes you pause mid-bite, glance around, and say, “Wait… how is this real life?”
🥣 Go Benz Rice Porridge
After dark, this place draws a local crowd fast. Their signature dish? Dry-style rice porridge with broth on the side. Sounds basic, but it’s bursting with garlic, smokiness, and comfort. Nothing fancy. Just soul food, Thai style.
🦀 One Chun Café
Old tiles, creaky ceiling fans, and plates of crab curry that’ll shut you up mid-sentence. One Chun is cozy, chaotic, and delicious. Bonus: it’s ridiculously affordable for Michelin-level cooking.
🐟 Ko Ang Seafood
We went overboard here — grilled prawns, crispy fish, spicy shrimp soup — all amazing. It felt more like a backyard dinner party than a restaurant. Total gem on the edge of town, and shockingly cheap for the quality.
The Sunday Walking Street Market — Come Hungry
If you’re in Phuket on a Sunday, make no other plans. Thalang Road turns into a bustling night market that hits all the senses at once. It’s loud, bright, a little chaotic, and absolutely worth it.
Street food highlights:
- Sausages on sticks (with sweet chili, of course)
- Coconut pancakes the size of coins
- Fresh mango with sticky rice
- Grilled squid, pad Thai, and mini omelets in banana leaves
- Fried roti slathered in Nutella or condensed milk — or both. No judgment.
Beyond the food, the market buzzes with life. Local artists sell handmade crafts, kids play guitars, and couples sway to live music in the street. It doesn’t feel touristy — it feels *real*.
Where I Stayed
I ended up at The Memory at On On Hotel — weird name, great location. It’s a restored colonial building with a ton of character, and it’s right in the heart of Old Town. If you want charm without spending a fortune, this place hits the mark.
Final Thoughts
Phuket Old Town wasn’t even on my radar — but it ended up being one of the most memorable stops on my trip. No beach. No rooftop pool. Just soul, flavor, and a vibe that sticks with you.
Sometimes, the best places are the ones you never planned for.
Quick Recap
- 🥢 Michelin-level food from unassuming kitchens
- 🎨 A night market full of flavor and local color
- 🏨 A budget-friendly hotel right in the middle of it all
- 🌧️ Even the rainy days feel like magic here
Pin it, save it, remember it — Phuket Old Town is worth the detour.
