11 Best Restaurants in Karon Beach to Try
Phuket is the birthplace of southern Thai cuisine, and the restaurants in Karon Beach are a great showcase of that culinary richness.
This guide features my top picks for the best restaurants in Karon Beach, from casual cafes to excellent dinner spots and standout breakfast places worth checking out.
I spent six weeks in Karon Beach, and being the food-obsessed traveler I am, I made it my mission to eat my way through the neighborhood. From Thai street food to full-course meals, I explored it all.
What makes Karon Beach such a great place to dine is the mix of cuisine styles. You’ll find everything from local Thai food to Italian, Turkish, seafood, and more.
Whatever kind of meal you’re after, you’ll find something on this list that fits your taste.
Once you’ve checked out these Karon Beach restaurants, don’t forget to look at my guide to the best places to eat in nearby Kata Beach. It’s packed with even more recommendations.
Pinto Karon
- Type of Cuisine: Thai
- Known For: Flavorful curries, great presentation, and a refined local dining atmosphere
- Hours: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM / Closed Wednesday
Pinto Karon is an exceptional Thai restaurant located along Patak Soi 20 Road.
This gem serves all the classic Thai dishes you crave, including Pad Kra Pow, Massaman curry, papaya salad, and many more.
Not only is the food delicious, but the presentation of plates feels like fine dining.
Having tried six different dishes, I can confidently say that none disappointed me. This is exactly why I returned several times. If you’re looking for authentic Thai in Karon, Pinto is an excellent choice!
A local family owns the restaurant, and they’ve done an excellent job with it, both food-wise/drinks-wise, and in terms of decor.
The Pad Thai Shop
- Type of Cuisine: Thai
- Known For: Homestyle Pad Thai, crab fried rice, and complimentary soup & sides
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM / Closed Sunday
The Pad Thai Shop is a cozy restaurant beloved by both locals and tourists. Dining here feels like enjoying a home-cooked meal in a welcoming atmosphere.
While the menu is limited, it features classic dishes such as Pad Thai, Pad Kra Pow, beef noodle soup, and crab fried rice, all perfectly prepared.
This focused menu ensures that every dish is consistently excellent, and the prices are incredibly affordable!
The restaurant offers complimentary water, rice, and a delicious chicken broth soup that I couldn’t get enough of.
And don’t miss out on their mango sticky rice or freshly squeezed mango juice for dessert, it’s the perfect way to end your meal here!
Coral Inn & Rosmarino Restaurant
- Type of Cuisine: Italian
- Known For: Risotto, burrata appetizers, and beachfront fine dining
- Hours: 2:00 PM – 10:30 PM / Closed Tuesday
Coral Inn is a charming fine-dining Italian restaurant that has become a favorite among both locals and tourists in the Karon Beach area. Thanks to its prominent corner street location, it’s hard to miss.
The restaurant offers a beautiful beachside setting and an extensive menu of Italian favorites, including risotto, fresh burrata, handmade pasta, and a variety of pizzas.
We stopped by for appetizers and were impressed. I ordered the risotto and a pizza, and both were flavorful and satisfying, finished off with their tiramisu, which was a nice touch.
That said, if you’re picky about your pizza like I am, keep reading, I found an even better option for pizza lovers just below.
Napoli in Vespa Phuket
- Type of Cuisine: Italian with some Thai options
- Known For: Excellent wood-fired pizza and casual Italian favorites
- Hours: 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Napoli in Vespa is a casual Italian restaurant conveniently located along the main street in Karon Beach, best known for its standout pizza.
Although pizza is the star here, they also serve a range of classic Italian dishes, as well as a few Thai options for variety.
During my stay in Karon, I tried several of their pizzas, each one delivered on flavor and crust texture. If you’re craving a solid pizza while in town, this is the spot to hit.
I also sampled some of their other offerings, including calamari and a couple of pasta dishes. They were okay, but nowhere near the same level as their pizza.
For better pasta, I’d recommend heading back to Coral Inn. But if it’s pizza you’re after, Napoli in Vespa is the clear winner.
EAT Bar & Grill Restaurant
- Type of Cuisine: Western with French influence
- Known For: Wagyu steaks, BBQ ribs, and well-crafted cocktails
- Hours: 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM / Closed Sunday
EAT Bar & Grill is the go-to spot in Karon for anyone craving premium BBQ dishes, from steaks and ribs to foie gras and gourmet burgers.
This stylish Western restaurant, subtly influenced by French techniques, clearly reflects a deep passion for well-executed, protein-heavy dishes and upscale comfort food.
The menu delivers on every front. Whether you’re diving into a tender medium-rare ribeye, savoring their rich Wagyu steak finished with truffle mushroom sauce, or starting off with flavorful bruschetta, there’s a consistent level of quality here.
We sampled several items during our visit, and everything was a hit, especially the Wagyu, which had the perfect sear and seasoning. Their spaghetti bolognese also impressed, and the house cocktails were a welcome bonus.
If you’re in the mood for a high-quality, Western-style dinner with attentive service and a chill yet refined vibe, EAT Bar & Grill is one of Karon’s top picks.
Cappadocia Turkish
- Type of Cuisine: Turkish
- Known For: Grilled meats, kebabs, traditional dips, and complimentary Turkish bread
- Hours: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM
Charcoal-grilled meats, savory meat pies, and grilled veggies, Turkish food is always a top choice for me, no matter where I’m traveling.
Cappadocia in Karon offers an authentic Turkish dining experience, serving a delicious range of flame-grilled kebabs, chicken skewers, falafel, and fresh Mediterranean salads.
Alongside your meal, you’ll receive complimentary Turkish bread served with two house-made dips: creamy hummus and a rich tomato-based spread. The portions are generous, and the seasoning is always on point.
I’ve visited both this location and their sister restaurant in Patong, and each time the food has been fantastic. If you’re craving hearty grilled dishes with bold, savory flavors, this place is a must-try.
Mama Jin
- Type of Cuisine: Thai with Western options
- Known For: Crab omelet, pineapple fried rice, and a diverse menu catering to all tastes
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM / Closed Saturday
Mama Jin is a beloved Thai restaurant that locals have recommended for several years, and it’s easy to see why, the food here is both authentic and consistently flavorful.
My go-to dishes include the pineapple fried rice and the crab omelet, both of which are perfectly seasoned and generously portioned. The freshly squeezed juices here are also worth mentioning, as they are refreshing and strike just the right balance of sweet and tart.
If it’s your first time in Thailand, don’t skip the crab omelet. It’s a breakfast staple in Thai cuisine and always a satisfying choice.
The menu here is quite extensive. In addition to classic Thai dishes, Mama Jin also offers a variety of European and American-style meals, making it a reliable option for travelers seeking a diverse culinary experience.
Noodle House
- Type of Cuisine: Thai
- Known For: Flavorful noodle soups with rich broth and generous protein portions
- Location: Patak Road, Karon Beach
- Hours: Not Known
Noodle House is a small, no-frills restaurant tucked along the main Patak Road, offering a humble yet delicious noodle experience. With just a few tables inside, it’s easy to miss, but that would be a mistake.
They specialize in classic Thai noodle soups featuring chicken, beef, or pork, served with your choice of noodles. I sampled two different bowls here, and both were incredibly tasty, with savory broths and plenty of meat. Even better? The prices are hard to beat.
If you’re visiting Thailand and want an authentic, hearty noodle soup that locals enjoy, this place should be on your radar.
I found it after walking by numerous times, proving that some of the best eats are hidden in plain sight.
Bai Toey
- Type of Cuisine: Thai
- Known For: Tom Yum soup, local Thai staples, and welcoming service
- Hours: 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Bai Toey is a cozy hidden gem tucked away on a quiet street just off Karon Road. This spot serves some of the best Thai food in the area, featuring standout dishes like shrimp pad Thai, massaman chicken, and a fantastic tom yum soup that hits all the right notes without overdoing the sourness.
My personal favorite was the tom yum, bold, balanced, and incredibly satisfying. My friends tried the beef salad and tom kha, and after tasting both, I can say this place knows how to deliver on flavor.
The lime ice cream for dessert was a refreshing surprise, and a perfect way to end the meal. Vegetarian options are available here as well, and the friendly staff help make the experience even more memorable.
On The Rock Restaurant
- Type of Cuisine: Thai and Seafood
- Known For: Scenic ocean views and seafood dishes
- Hours: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Perched on a hill at the far end of Karon Beach, On The Rock is well-known in the area for its panoramic views of the coastline, making it a picturesque spot for lunch or dinner.
During my visit, I went for the lobster and paired it with a salad. It was enjoyable, though not quite a standout for me personally. To be honest, I can be a bit particular when it comes to food. On another visit, I tried a few Thai dishes, which turned out to be quite good and flavorful.
Although the restaurant promotes itself as a fine dining venue, the vibe during my meal felt more casual and laid-back, which I appreciated. If you’re seeking a romantic meal in Karon with views of the Andaman Sea, On The Rock is definitely worth checking out.
WALU Bowls
- Type of Cuisine: Health-focused, Vegan & Vegetarian-Friendly
- Known For: Acai bowls, avocado toast, and fresh juices
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Health-conscious readers, Walu Bowls is the perfect spot for you! This cozy café is dedicated to clean, wholesome eating, offering a fresh menu ideal for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking for a nutritious meal.
The offerings include colorful acai bowls, nourishing rice bowls, egg dishes topped with fresh vegetables, smoothies, avocado toast, and high-quality coffee and lattes.
The ingredients are vibrant and well-sourced, and the vibe is relaxed, making it great for starting your day off right.
Thanks to its convenient location right across from Karon Beach, it’s a great place to fuel up before or after a sunny beach session.
Cafes & Breakfast Restaurants
Cafes in Karon Beach
Looking for a laid-back place to enjoy coffee or get some work done during your stay in Karon Beach?
The cafés listed below are perfect for a morning caffeine boost, an afternoon chill session, or a light bite in between beach outings. Whether you’re craving strong espresso, homemade cakes, or a cozy ambiance, these Karon cafés have you covered.
Breakfast Restaurants in Karon Beach
In Thailand, breakfast restaurants often open later than you might expect. So if you’re an early riser used to eating by 7:00 AM, keep in mind that many breakfast spots here won’t open until 8:00 or 9:00 AM.
You’re on island time now, which means slower mornings and a laid-back pace! Here are a few excellent breakfast restaurants to start your day in Karon Beach once you’re ready to eat.
Final Thoughts on the Best Restaurants in Karon Beach
Whether you’re visiting Phuket for a week or a month, Karon Beach has plenty of incredible dining options worth trying.
From hole-in-the-wall Thai spots to international bistros and beachfront restaurants with sunset views, there’s something for everyone.
I’ve personally tried many of the restaurants listed above during my time in Karon, and what stood out most was the balance between authentic local dishes and international flavors. It’s a great place to mix it up, one night enjoying a spicy Thai stir-fry, the next, wood-fired pizza, or Turkish kebabs.
If you’re still figuring out where to eat in Karon Beach, start with a few of the more popular options, such as Pinto Karon or Pad Thai Shop, and then try one of the lesser-known spots listed. You never know, one of them might become your favorite meal in Phuket.
Are Karon Beach restaurants open year‑round?
Yes! Most restaurants in Karon Beach stay open all year, though some may reduce hours or close during Thailand’s quiet monsoon season (May–October). Still, main venues remain open and welcoming.
Do I need to book in advance at Karon Beach restaurants?
Generally, no. Most casual Thai and family‑run restaurants don’t require reservations.
However, for beachfront or upscale venues, especially during the high season (December–April), booking ahead is recommended if you’re in a group.
Can I find vegetarian or vegan options in Karon Beach?
Many places on this list offer vegetarian versions of Thai curries, stir‑fries, noodle dishes, and fresh salads.
Several international spots (like Napoli in Vespa) even feature dedicated meat‑free menu items.
What’s the typical dinner price per person in Karon Beach?
Expect to pay between 400–800 THB (~$12–25 USD) for a main dish, side, and drink at mid-range restaurants.
Pad Thai Shops and local Thai joints tend to be on the lower end, while beachfront or international venues tend to fall toward the higher end.
