The globally renowned TOP25Restaurants.com, celebrated for its innovative use of artificial intelligence in spotlighting the world’s culinary gems, recently released its 2023 list of Phuket’s top 25 dining destinations. This year’s list marks the third edition, showcasing their unwavering dedication to honoring Phuket’s gastronomic brilliance.
The 2023 accolades shine a light on the crème de la crème of Phuket’s dining scene. These establishments have been meticulously selected and ranked by the Restaurant Rating Index, a sophisticated blend of AI technology and expert judgment.
Topping the list was “hom,” a culinary haven located within the InterContinental Phuket Resort. At the heart of hom lies a deep appreciation for locavorism, seasonality, and an insatiable curiosity. Every dish crafted at hom pays tribute to the art of fermentation, a technique that unveils unparalleled flavors. The restaurant’s philosophy is built on a two-way flow of knowledge, bridging the gap between local farms and the kitchen. This harmonious connection ensures the sourcing of the freshest ingredients from across Phuket. By integrating ancient fermentation methods, Chef Ricardo and his team amplify the flavors while preserving the essence of each ingredient. Complementing this gastronomic journey is HOM’s beverage program, curated to enhance the dining experience. As Chef Ricardo aptly puts it, the team at hom is on a “relentless quest to explore, to entice, and to excite.”
Coming in at number 2 on the list is L’Arôme by the Sea, the island’s premier French dining spot, where Chef Yannick Hollenstein offers a modern twist on French classics. Located in Kalim Bay, L’ARÔME BY THE SEA boasts a sophisticated design across its two unique spaces: the restaurant area that showcases the finesse and artistry of modern French cuisine with a touch of Swiss Alps influence, and a sunset deck ideal for relaxed sun set drinks, as well as for aperitifs or digestifs.
What began as a simple passion for real food and a desire to feed their children better, has grown into JAMPA, a restaurant that sits in the third position. JAMPA’s farm to fork concept offers a menu of sophisticated, tasty and nutritious dishes that change daily, based on the sea and land that offer a new harvest each day.
Rounding off the top five are Pru, nestled in the acclaimed Trisara resort, and Samut, a beacon of Thai cuisine emphasizing fresh seafood and local produce.
This year, nine newcomers graced the list, including HEH, Phuket’s pioneer in Australian fine dining; Semi di Tsubu, a unique fusion of Japanese and Italian flavors; and Su Va Na, which promises a memorable marine dining experience.
The brainchild of Bernard Metzger, Top25Restaurants.com has consistently raised the bar in the food industry. Since its inception in 2018, the platform’s annual awards have been driven by the proprietary “Restaurant Rating Index.” This comprehensive index assesses various aspects of a restaurant, from food quality and ambiance to value and online engagement, all analyzed using AI. Being featured in the TOP25 is a coveted honor for chefs, as it amplifies their establishment’s prestige and draws in gourmet enthusiasts.
This year was particularly special as it marked the inaugural award ceremony for Phuket. Earlier in 2023, the organization also celebrated Bangkok’s culinary scene with a dedicated award ceremony.
The grand event for the TOP25 Restaurants Phuket Awards 2023 was hosted at the opulent InterContinental Resort & Spa Phuket on September 11, 2023. It was a landmark occasion, being the first face-to-face gathering since the list’s inception, underscoring Phuket’s culinary resilience.
A memorable moment from the evening was the trophy presentation to the top 25 winners. These exquisite awards, engraved with the restaurant’s name and 2023 rank, were personally handed over by Mr. Lertchai Wangtrakuldee, the esteemed Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket Office, adding a special touch to the festivities.
The TOP25 Restaurants Phuket 2023 Rankings:
Ranked by the Restaurant Rating Index http://www.phuket.top25restaurants.com )
1. hom, Fermentation Based
2. L’Arôme by the Sea, Modern French
3. JAMPA, Sustainable Cuisine
4. PRU, Natural Thai
5. Samut, Modern Thai
6. Nitan, Innovative Thai
7. Suay, Northeastern Thai
8. Black Ginger, Modern Thai
9. Jaras, Modern Thai
10. Acqua, Italian Fine Dining
11. HEH, Contemporary Australian
12. Tengoku, Japanese
13. Takieng, Authentic Thai
14. Ta Khai, Thai Seafood
15. Saffron, Classic Thai
16. Age, Classic Grill
17. Semi di Tsubu, Itameshi
18. Blue Elephant Phuket, Royal Thai Cuisine
19. Bon Pan-Asian Tapas, Pan-Asian Tapas
20. Siam Supper Club, Steakhouse
21. Akoya, Coastal Tapas
22. Baan Rim Pa, Royal Thai Cuisine
23. Talung Thai, Modern Thai
24. Su Va Na, Marine Dining
25. Big Fish, Seafood