Joe's Downstairs - Phuket

Where Is It?

Situated in Kalim, just north of Patong, Joe’s is just a few minute’s drive from the centre of town.

Cresting the first hill coming out of town, you’ll find Joe’s Downstairs in the illustrious company of Da Maurizio and Baan Rim Pa opposite the entrance to Diamond Cliff Resort.

Décor

The first impression one gets of Joe’s is the way the all-white theme dovetails neatly with the immediate by-the-sea feel of the place; the sea is in fact a firm part of the décor here.

It all seems so spotless yet far from clinical and with the recent addition of a large deck terrace it’s never cramped. A tastefully lit bar lines the descent into the restaurant. Cool stuff.

Atmosphere

People of all ages frequent Joe’s but it does have a markedly youthful feel to it. And who wouldn’t feel sprightly and full of life sipping on a martini, watching the fabulous sunset here?

Part bar, part restaurant, by mid evening the restaurant vibe is dominant but then the cool sounds and relaxed yet chic bar vibe takes over. 

Wine

Joe’s Downstairs is a year-after-year winner of Wine Spectator Magazine’s ‘Award of Excellence’ and not only that, it has access to the immense wine resources of neighbouring Baan Rim Pa and Da Maurizio.

With this combination the restaurant is one of the top five in southern Thailand when it comes to wine.

Food

American-born Chef Aaron Hooper makes the art of good food seem effortless. Dishes are all pieces de resistance with the emphasis on great taste matchings along with top priority accorded to freshness.

Fois gras shu mei with toasted pistachios and tamarind/plum sauce is a worthy starter; the flavours complementing and blending in a master creation. Premium jumbo crab cake simply cannot be bettered – and this on an island world-famous as a seafood destination.

400-day aged Wagyu beef tenderloin with leek and potato hash is a filling and tasty main course. All in all, Joe’s is a class act and, given the setting and the talent involved it is seriously worth a visit – at sunset, of course. 

Service

With food and setting this good it’d be a crime if the service didn’t match. But it does.