Karon Beach Restaurants & Dining

Karon Circle - a traffic island decorated with strange mythical creatures straight out of Thai folklore, is the main focal point in Karon. Located on the beach road it's close to the main shopping area away from the beach starts here. Opposite is a row of unpretentious and inexpensive local restaurants offering excellent sea food and Thai specialities.

For more stylish dining try Old Siam at the Thavorn Palm Beach Hotel along the beach road which serves excellent Royal Northern Thai cuisine. Choose the terrace or traditional teakwood house. Classical dance performances - Wed and Sat. Open noon- 2.30 6-10pm. Reservations recommended. Tel 396 116, 396 552.

Pining for a steak? Tai Kong Phuket Arcadia Hotel, also on the beach road, serves excellent seafood and imported US steak. Live music in lobby lounge and karaoke bar. Open for dinner from 5pm-10pm.

At Talay-Tai (Karon Villa) you can select your own fresh Phuket lobster, crab or saltwater fish, served either Thai or international style. Tel 396-139, ext 340

Al Dente close to Karon Circle serves generous fondues, both meat and cheese, as well as cooked-to-order Italian dishes. Classical music makes a relaxing background to the sound of the sea in this fine open-air restaurant. Lunch and dinner. Tel 396 569

Seema's Pure Indian Vegetarian Food Karon Plaza, Karon (just off main road) No dairy products or eggs. No alcohol served but you can bring your own. There's also a little gift shop with Indian imports. Lunch and dinner.

Ruem Thep Inn Located right at the end of Karon (south end) on the rocky headland. Relaxed atmosphere, good Thai food and ocean views.