Thai food has a reputation for being light and healthy but sometimes contains additives and processed food that the disconcerting vegetarian or vegan traveller might not want to dine on. The good news is natural food and healthy dining options around Phuket have grown in popularity recently with new options opening regularly. Here are our top five of the best healthy cafes and restaurants located near the resort in the southern part of the island. Enjoy…
Bake Free (Chalong) – Bake Free is considered a godsend for diabetics and those intolerant of gluten. All the ingredients including flour is fresh and hand ground by the Lebanese owner/chef so there is no fear of contamination from the food and ingredients being prepared near non-gluten free items. There is a wide range of breads, cookies, cakes, salads, dips to order or for take away; including healthy Lebanese treats such as hummus, tabbouleh and fatoush.
Wilson’s Cafe (Rawai) – Wilson’s Cafe is a small restaurant inspired by Tom Hank’s volleyball friend in the movie ‘Castaway’. It is open daily from 7:30am to 5pm serving healthy and tasty breakfast, lunch and vegetarian options. The indoor and outdoor seating attracts a fit, health conscious and artsy crowd of all ages. It is also known for its great coffee (the bulletproof coffee is divine) and tea, sugar free superfood smoothies and protein shakes, raw desserts, cakes and protein packaged ‘Nana Bowls.’ Gluten free pancakes and the ‘smashed avocado’ are must try dishes highlighted in numerous online reviews.
Atsumi Raw Café (Rawai) – The Atsumi Raw Café serves lovingly prepared raw vegan and raw vegetarian food as well as an amazing selection of juices and green moothies, using locally sourced and organic ingredients when possible. The menu features breakfast and light meals, soups, salads, a few main courses and deserts. With lots of covered seating, free WiFi and complimentary tea there is no better place to eat raw delights, catch up on social media, chat and relax.
Natural Efe (Rawai) – A visit to this small cozy eatery is well worth it. The simplicity and variety of freshly cooked meals offered is unique, and guests are rewarded with a complete variety of organic food from all over the world. Natural Efe serves breakfast and light meals, coffee, tea, juices and plant milk. Make sure to meet Costas the owner.
Phuket Vegan (Naiharn Beach) – The vegan burgers at Phuket Vegan get consistently outstanding reviews and are considered by many as the most delicious and nutritious available. The guacamole burger appears to be best of the best and the owners, a lovely Thai-German couple, take a keen interest in customer satisfaction. Falafels and the coconut-chocolate ice cream also get consistent praise.