Among our RL Phuket readers, there’s hardly anyone who hasn’t heard of the Michelin Guide – the world’s most prestigious restaurant directory. The coveted Michelin Star is a dream for chefs worldwide, but what does it truly signify? Let’s dive into the story behind those little stars.

The Michelin Red Guide first appeared in 1900, originally aimed at the automobile traveller – a rare and affluent group at the time, much like today’s yacht owners. Michelin awarded stars to the finest venues:

• 1 Star: A restaurant worth a stop.
• 2 Stars: A detour-worthy destination.
• 3 Stars: A place so exceptional it could be the primary goal of a journey.

Nowadays, even 1 Star is a place worth a journey. It is the bare mention in the guide which signifies a tasty menu, while stars mean restaurants offering a culinary experience that goes beyond simply feeding diners. In fact, in many cases, “filling up” isn’t possible at all.

A dish crafted by a Michelin-starred chef is more like a work of art than a meal – intricately tied to the chef’s personal touch. Hence, you’ll often find tiny portions, unexpected combinations, unique textures, and innovative presentations. Dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant is an experience of tasting and savoring rather than just eating.

On Phuket, only one restaurant has earned a Michelin Star: PRU, led by Chef Jimmy Ophorst. Aspiring contenders include Chef Ton Tassanakajohn’s Samut and Chef Ricardo Nunes’ Hom, but Michelin-starred restaurants still primarily reside in Bangkok.

Now, let’s move from Stars to Michelin-approved spots for simply good food! The majority of the guide is dedicated to just that – “Michelin Selection” restaurants and “Bib Gourmand” venues.

“Michelin Selection” marks the inspectors’ overall top choice, while “Bib Gourmand” highlights the best value spot, where a satisfying meal stays under B1,000 THB per person.

For Phuket, these sections are the real treasure troves. And if you’re a longtime resident, you’ll likely find your favorite eateries here. Think of the regal Blue Elephant, the inventive Suay, award-winning Acqua, refined L’Arôme by the Sea and Jaras, atmospheric Salaloy, elegant Tu Kab Khao, and the modest single-dish-place Kha Moo Boran.

Each of these restaurants is a place that any local would recommend to a close friend visiting Phuket. Would we recommend them to you? Without a doubt!