Home to popular beaches and resorts and well-known for its vibrant nightlife, a visit to Thailand’s largest island, Phuket, is incomplete without visiting its colourful food markets.
Phuket Town Central Market
Located at the very heart of Phuket Old Town, the Phuket Town Central Market is a great option for those who want to feel the pulse of everyday Thai life. The market is open every morning and has one of the most extensive selections of vegetables, meat, seafood, fish, exotic fruit, spices, and ready-made dishes found anywhere in the region. On its periphery are stalls selling other ware such as clothes, accessories and handicrafts. Remember to bargain!
Banzaan Market
While the Banzaan Market isn’t as large as the Phuket Town Central Market, its unusual contemporary design makes it a must-visit. Architectural appeal aside, the Banzaan food market offers fresh produce including seafood, fish, meat, poultry and dry food, and hosts a food court on level one that opens at 11am. One of the food court’s stand-out features is that the stalls here will cook the seafood you have purchased from the wet market downstairs on the spot. Do note that a “cash card” must be purchased beforehand to enjoy this service as the stallholders do not accept money.
From 6pm every evening, the area just outside the market comes alive with the Banzaan Street Food Night Market. Munch on food skewered on sticks, delicious local fruits and more.
Kamala Village Market
Located on the Kamala-Patong Road, this Thai food market offers a truly authentic food experience without the crowds to match.
The market is open on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons and features an intimate atmosphere plus some of the freshest produce on the island — the perfect setting to shop (and barter) like a local. Browse around and you will also find apparel, accessories and souvenirs that are perfect for friends and family back home. Don’t forget to satisfy your taste buds with the market’s wide selection of ready-made snacks and drinks.
