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A lot of visitors can't tell exactly where Karon stops and Kata
starts and the distinction is a fine one, even for people who have
been here for years. Karon is a sleepy little beach between Patong
and Kata. The shore itself is spectacular but lends itself more
to long strolls and sunset views as opposed to swimming, snorkelling
and other watersports.
There are several top class resorts lining the road opposite the
beach and, of course, these all offer a variety of dining options.
Additionally there are several mid-range eateries that have fine
food at very affordable prices. Karon is also home to a few long-time
Phuket favourites where you can enjoy some excellent tastes that
can be hard to find elsewhere.
Karon Northeast
You know you've hit Karon when you reach this highly visible roundabout
at the north end of the beach. To the north lies Patong, while to
south you'll find Karon beach, and farther along, Kata
and then Nai Harn. Following the road
that runs east (inland) from the circle, you'll find one of the
main centres of the Karon area. This street has some of the most
established restaurants in Karon, as well as a few bars and pubs
for a before (or after) dinner cocktail.
Whale
Resort has a cool poolside restaurant that's open to the
public. Thai favourites and buffets are the norm, great for a snack
in the middle of some poolside sunbathing.
The Little Mermaid, named after the famous statue which
guards the entrance to Copenhagen harbour, serves authentic and
delicious Scandinavian food. Also worth a look is Aroy Seafood.
Branching off of the main road there are two small sois (side streets)
where you'll find shops, guest houses and plenty of good food. The
first of these sois (nearest to the circle) is the home of Karon
Café, an institution among island residents which has
some of the best European and American food anywhere on the island.
The main features are the juicy steaks; flown in unfrozen from Australia
and grilled to perfection under the supervision of American chef
Eric, Karon Café's steaks are a delight, especially when
paired with the complimentary soup and salad bar and a smooth and
robust Australian red wine. Sister to the Karon Café, Las
Margaritas has a few Mexican dishes and a number of international
choices.
Royal Tandoor on the same soi is authentic north Indian
cuisine such as masala, biryani and, of course, tandoori chicken.
The second of these sois is located at the eastern end of the road
and offers choice of cuisines at mid-range prices. Rattana,
Papaya and Up Seafood offer fresh catches prepared
using mouth watering Thai recipes, while Kashmir India offers
a second choice for tasty Indian.
Karon North
If you follow the road south from Karon Circle it won't be long
before you spy the newest and hippest part of the area. A recently
built boutique complex has arrived, bringing with it several upscale
restaurants and cafés which offer contemporary cuisine and
stylish atmosphere.
Buffalo Steakhouse has long been one of the most successful
restaurants on the island, with four venues in Phuket, and their
Karon north location maintains their high standard of quality.
Vitaporn offers first-class Thai cuisine and excellent service.
Wildfire has a festive menu and an upbeat atmosphere while
Talay has very good value seafood in a simple yet stylish
setting. For a sundowner and snacks try out Mong Talay, also
called the sunset bar for its perfect ocean view.
Middle Karon
Located roughly in the middle of Karon beach, Aroona Karon is a
complex of about a half dozen restaurants that run the gamut of
cuisines from Thai to Italian to Swedish. Mixed in with the eateries
are a few bars, as well as some souvenir and sundry shops. Al
Dente has a good cross-section of Italian regional cuisines
and a charming atmosphere while Munchausen serves some of
the most authentic German food you'll find on the island.
Karlsson's Steakhouse and Pizzeria is the anchor of this
street, one of the most well known and well liked restaurants in
Phuket. Also on hand are European, American and Thai restaurants,
so you're sure to find something that whets your appetite.
Farther south along the beach road you'll come to a fairly large
street that branches off from the beach road. This is Luang Poh
Chuan Road, the centre of Karon nightlife and home to several popular
restaurants. On the main road there are plenty of mid-range restaurants
with mixed Thai and international menus.
Belman's, Robin House, Ed's and Chilli
& Shell all offer good value and varied menus, sure to make
everyone in the party happy, no matter what their tastes. Standing
out from this crowd is Harry's Steakhouse, on Soi Bangla
(yes, there are two). This is a relaxed and family friendly place
that delivers unpretentious but delicious food and drinks. (Open
during high season). At the eastern end of this road you'll find
Bling's Burgers and Beer, an American style place that's
pretty much the way it sounds: no-nonsense blue collar food, cold
beer and sports on TV.
Karon South
As you head south towards Karon after Aroona Karon you'll see about
seven or eight Thai style seafood shanties on your left. These offer
fresh seafood along with all the Thai favourites at very affordable
prices.
A little farther south and you start to get into Kata beach. The
demarcation between the two is fairly subtle but Dino Park
is not. A burger bar and mini-golf course that looks like it was
imported intact from Bedrock. On the opposite side of the street
you'll find another version of the popular Buffalo Steakhouse.
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