Panwa House - Phuket

Cape Panwa Restaurants & Dining

Tin plays such an important part of Phuket’s history and the island has a stronger Chinese presence than any other Thai province due to the influx of Chinese labour over 100 years ago.

One of the results of the tin boom is an impressive collection of colonial-style tin mogul mansions dotted throughout the island, in various stages of disrepair or recondition. 

One of the better-maintained mansions is situated on the beach in Cape Panwa Hotel’s grounds; this is Panwa House, a veritable monument to an epoch when tin was king.

Chalong Bay

Panwa House is a total throwback: everything in the building is original or has been lovingly restored. Arriving at the hotel, we board a funicular and creak downhill in the rain. It’s six o’clock and the light is already fading so Panwa House is lit up like a Christmas tree. The mansion is over 80 years old and everything, right down to the electrical plugs and light switches, is retro.

On the landing, halfway up the stairs, are mother of pearl inlaid black teak chairs, bookcases line the upper rooms filled with dated magazines and in one stands a Waddington’s ‘Escape from Atlantis’ game. A teak clock hangs on the wall, its hands frozen at quarter to two, ancient overhead fans waft and stir the evening breeze while an aroma of ginger pervades throughout the building.

Where Is It?

Right on the beach in the grounds of Cape Panwa Hotel which in turn is situated on the east coast of the island.

Turn right at reception and take what the hotel calls the ‘Tram’ down the hill then hang a right through the grounds and there she stands, unmistakeable and unique.

Décor

Definitely one of the loveliest places to dine in Phuket, Panwa House’s décor is the genuine article – of 80 years ago.

It’s a perfect example of Thai-Chinese ostentation with its elaborate floor tile work and teak fittings, its generous terraces and wide stairways, its rattan sofas and colourful cushions.

Dining-wise, there are both glass-covered rattan tables and white, colonial-style metal tables. 

Atmosphere

It’s not for nothing that Panwa House is regularly used in movies as a romantic backdrop.

The silk-clad staff ensures a polished feel to the place and a Thai three-piece musical combo plays on the landing.

The best word to describe the atmosphere here is ‘gentile’ and it certainly is a place to dress up for. 

 

Wine

There are a substantial 40 labels on Panwa House’s wine list, from 1,200 baht a bottle upwards.

Our Pinotage Merlot, Matua Valley N.Z. red was excellent; with enough body to stand on its own but light enough not to encroach on the rich flavours of the Thai food we sampled. 

Food

Thai all the way, with delicious deep-fried crab meat spring rolls for starters and an admirable glass noodle salad. The tom yam goong (spicy prawn soup with mushrooms and lemongrass) was just right and representative of Panwa House’s culinary savvy.

Especially good were the sautéed crab meat with green pepper and the roasted duck in red curry, grapes, cherry tomatoes and pineapple. The steamed white snapper in lemon was as fresh as could be and the whole experience was enhanced by the beautiful surroundings.

Special mention should be made of the gleaming brass cutlery (polished daily) and the ‘Benjarong’ style, blue-and-white plates and dishes that lent a regal touch to the proceedings.

Service

We were well looked after at Panwa House. The wait staff all spoke English and was smartly turned out. This is not a particularly large restaurant so you are guaranteed a high level of personal service.

Location: in Panwa Hotel
Tel: 076 391 123-5


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Hotels Near Panwa House

Cape Panwa Hotel Cape Panwa Hotel

The Cape Panwa Hotel embodies tropical luxury in one of the world's most desirable destinations. Tucked away in a quiet corner of southeast Phuket, the hotel is renowned for its excellent service, stylish rooms and exclusive beach. Blending superbly with the natural beauty of the area, the hotel is comprised of a selection tastefully decorated, sea facing suites and pool villas. Read More...

Sri Panwa Phuket Sri Panwa Phuket

Sri Panwa is a new luxury pool villa estate located on the southeastern tip of Phuket. We are mixed development, housing both one and two bedroom hotel pool villas and a selection of larger, distinctive residential homes. Hidden in more than 80 rai of undisturbed rainforest and overlooking the Andaman ocean from more than 70 metres above sea level, our residential villas are truly spectacular creations. Read More...

Kantary Bay Hotel Kantary Bay Hotel

Kantary Bay Hotel is a charming beachfront hotel within a short 10-15 minute drive from Phuket town. It is a hotel with a difference - every room is a suite, each featuring a living area with a comfortable sofa and a dining table, a small but complete pantry and a balcony. Read More...


Phuket Floating Restaurants: A unique way to dine
Khao Rang Hill Phuket: Dining with a view of Phuket Town
Thai Hua Museum: Phuket's heritage comes alive
Indy Market: Young, innovative and amusing
Honeymoon in Phuket: Romance in luxury
Into the Sea Restaurant: Fine dining by the sea 
RE KÁ TA Beach Club: Beachside gourmand fare

 
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