Raya Restaurant - Complete Review
When you're in Phuket and craving a taste of authentic Thai cuisine, Raya Restaurant is a spot worth checking out. This place has been a local favorite for years, offering a mix of traditional and modern dishes. It's located in a charming old building, giving it a unique vibe that stands out from other places. The menu is packed with local specialties, and the seafood is particularly fresh and flavorful. You might want to try the crab curry, which many people rave about. While the atmosphere is cozy and inviting, it can get a bit warm inside since there's no air conditioning, but the fans help.
Overall, Raya Restaurant provides a genuine Thai dining experience that's hard to forget.
Location
48/1 Thanon Dibuk, Tambon Talat Yai, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83000, Thailand
Contact
Opening Hours
Monday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Price Range
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible
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Why We Recommend It
- The restaurant is famous for its life-affirming crab curry, praised for its freshness and flavor.
- The staff is consistently described as lovely, welcoming, and attentive, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Raya Restaurant offers a separate vegetarian menu, making it inclusive for diners with different dietary preferences.
- The venue is noted for its cute and charming setting, with a historical ambiance that adds to the dining experience.
Downsides
- Food freshness can be a little inconsistent
Our Review of Raya Restaurant
Raya Restaurant in Phuket offers a delightful dining experience with its authentic Thai flavors and a laid-back atmosphere. The restaurant's location in a historic Sino-Portuguese building adds a unique touch, making your meal feel like a step back in time. While the setting is charming, it's worth noting that the lack of air conditioning might be uncomfortable for some, though fans are provided to help keep things cool. The menu at Raya Restaurant is impressive, with a focus on local Phuket dishes.
The seafood options are particularly noteworthy, with the crab curry being a standout choice for many. The restaurant also caters to different dietary preferences with a separate vegetarian menu, which is a thoughtful touch. Prices are reasonable given the quality of the food, making it a good value for a special meal. Service at Raya Restaurant is friendly and attentive, adding to the overall positive experience.
The staff is known for being welcoming and even goes the extra mile by offering complimentary fruit at the end of your meal. This attention to detail leaves a lasting impression and makes you feel appreciated as a guest. It's a good idea to make a reservation during busy times so you don't have to wait. In terms of accessibility, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible, which is great for guests who need it.
Credit cards are accepted, but it's a good idea to have cash on hand as some guests mention a possible surcharge for card payments. Overall, Raya Restaurant is a great spot to enjoy authentic Thai cuisine in a historical setting, with just a few minor areas for improvement.
Services Offered by Raya Restaurant
- Specializes in authentic Thai and local Phuket dishes
- Housed in a historic Sino-Portuguese building
- Offers both indoor and outdoor seating
- Serves alcohol, including a variety of wines
- Recognized by Michelin Guide with a Bib Gourmand award
Experiences to check out in Phuket
When to Visit
Raya Restaurant is open every day from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, which gives you plenty of time to plan your visit. If you want to avoid the crowds, try going during the weekday afternoons. Evenings can get a bit busy, especially on weekends, but the lively atmosphere is part of the experience.
Who It's Best For
Raya Restaurant is great for anyone who appreciates fresh seafood and authentic Thai cuisine. It's ideal for foodies who love trying Michelin-rated places, and the prices are reasonable for the quality. Families and couples would enjoy the welcoming atmosphere, and there's a separate vegetarian menu if that's your preference.
Raya Restaurant Review Wrap Up
Finally, Raya Restaurant in Phuket stands out as a fantastic spot for enjoying authentic Thai cuisine in a charming setting. The historic building adds a unique touch to your dining experience, and the menu offers a variety of fresh and flavorful dishes. While some diners have raised concerns about food hygiene, the overall experience is positive, with attentive staff and a welcoming atmosphere. The crab curry is a must-try, and the separate vegetarian menu is a nice touch for those with dietary preferences. Though parking can be tricky, the restaurant's central location offers plenty of other transport options.
For a memorable meal in Phuket, Raya Restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
The portion sizes at Raya Restaurant are generally quite generous, making them good for sharing. This is especially true for dishes like the crab curry, which is a popular choice and comes with plenty to go around. While the prices are on the higher side, given the quality and the Michelin recognition, sharing dishes can be a great way to experience more of the menu without breaking the bank. Just be aware that the spiciness can vary, so it's a good idea to ask about the heat level if you're sharing with someone who isn't a fan of spicy food.
Raya Restaurant offers a decent selection of drinks to complement your meal. They serve alcohol, including a variety of wines, which is nice if you're looking to enjoy a glass with your dinner. While the drink menu isn't vast, it provides enough choices to find something that pairs well with their flavorful dishes.
For weekday lunches, making a reservation at Raya Restaurant isn't really necessary. The place tends to be less crowded during lunch hours on weekdays, so you can usually walk in and find a table without much trouble. If you prefer to plan ahead, it never hurts to call and reserve, but it's not a must for a smooth experience.
History buffs would probably enjoy Raya Restaurant's setting because it's in a historic Sino-Portuguese building, which adds an interesting element to the dining experience. The architecture and ambiance offer a glimpse into the area's past, making it more than just a meal. While the focus is on the food, the unique setting provides an extra layer of interest for those who appreciate history.
Parking can be a bit of a hassle when visiting Raya Restaurant. The restaurant is located in Old Town, which means parking spots are limited and can fill up quickly, especially during peak dining hours. It's a good idea to arrive a bit earlier or consider using public transport or ride-sharing services to avoid parking issues.
