Rawai Seafood Market – Affordable Local Favorite
Are you visiting Phuket and craving delicious seafood that won’t break the bank? Let me introduce you to Rawai Seafood Market, a must-visit spot where you can enjoy fresh and affordable seafood just the way you like it—grilled, steamed, or stir-fried!
Surrounded by the sea, Phuket is rich in fresh seafood. While there are many great seafood restaurants, Rawai Seafood Market stands out because you get to pick your seafood yourself, then have it cooked right on the spot!
1. Location
Rawai Seafood Market
Address: 22/9 4233 Rawai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand
It’s located right by Rawai Beach, about 30 minutes from Patong, 20 minutes from Kata & Karon Beaches, 15 minutes from Chalong, 30 minutes from Phuket Town, and just 10 minutes from Nai Harn Beach. These are approximate travel times.
Since taxi fares can be expensive in Phuket, I recommend stopping by this area when you’re already nearby to save on transport costs!
2. What Makes Rawai Seafood Market Special
Think of it like a fish market—you choose your seafood, and nearby restaurants cook it for you on the spot!
The fun part is that you get to personally select the seafood you’re about to enjoy.
At the entrance, you’ll find some souvenir stalls, but as you walk further inside, you’ll discover rows of seafood vendors offering:
Shrimp
Clams
Lobsters
Blue crabs
Squid
Fish
…and more!
Prices vary by size and species, and bargaining is common—so don’t be shy to negotiate. 😄
📌 Pro Tip
If you’re buying multiple items from one vendor (like shrimp, lobster, or fish), try saying this phrase for a discount:
“Lot dai mai kha?” (for females)
“Lot dai mai krap?” (for males)
→ It means: “Can you give me a discount?”
3. How to Order at the Restaurant
Once you’ve chosen your seafood, simply bring it to one of the nearby restaurants.
I personally recommend Khun Pha, a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
The cooking fee is typically 100 THB per kilogram, regardless of the type of seafood.
![Khun Pha Restaurant Exterior]
![Khun Pha Cooking Menu]
You can choose from various cooking styles depending on what you’ve bought. For example:
If you bought shrimp, you could ask for half to be grilled and the other half to be stir-fried.
You can also request dishes like garlic butter, spicy chili paste, steamed with lime, or deep-fried.
👉 There’s lots of flexibility—just let them know how you want it done!
4. Recommended Dishes
Thai seafood is fresh, flavorful, and full of variety! Here are some of my personal favorites when visiting Rawai Seafood Market:
🦐 Shrimp
Thai shrimp are known for being plump and juicy. I usually go for grilled prawns with garlic butter sauce—the aroma alone is mouthwatering!
🦞 Lobster (Crayfish)
Crayfish, often referred to as “lobster” in Thai, is more affordable here than at regular seafood restaurants.
I recommend getting it grilled with garlic and butter—simple and perfect.
🦀 Crab Dishes
You must try the famous yellow curry crab (stir-fried crab with yellow curry).
It’s rich, spicy, and full of flavor. Pair it with crab fried rice for the ultimate combo!
🐟 Fish
For fish, the fried fish with sweet and sour sauce is always a hit.
Crispy, tangy, and delicious—perfect with rice!
🥬 Side Dishes
To balance the rich flavors, I recommend ordering stir-fried morning glory or som tam (green papaya salad).
They add freshness and a nice crunch to your meal.
🦐 Ready to taste the best seafood in Phuket?
Visit Rawai Seafood Market and treat yourself to an unforgettable local experience!
5. Operating Hours
The market and restaurants usually operate from 10:30 AM to 9:00 PM, but I recommend visiting around 7:00 PM—that’s when the atmosphere is most relaxed and lively.
Hope this guide helps you discover one of Phuket’s local gems!
If you’re a seafood lover (or just love exploring like a local), Rawai Seafood Market is a must-visit.
Fresh seafood, vibrant vibes, and unforgettable flavors—what more could you ask for? 🦞💛
👉 And if you’re interested in scuba diving during your Phuket trip, check out our Fun Diving Trips here! 😊