May 19th, 2011

There can be few better ways to enjoy the exquisite tastes of freshly caught Thai seafood, than at one of the beachfront tables of KanEang@Pier restaurant in Phuket. Located on the shores of Chalong Bay, on the less crowded south coast of the resort island, a Kan Eang ( translated means “feel at ease”) seafood restaurant has occupied this site for more than three decades, always under the ownership of the same local family. After undergoing extensive renovations and additions in 2007 the restaurant was re-launched as KanEang@Pier.

The entrance from the car park, across a pond of water lilies and then through a large antique Chinese style doorway, opens out into an expansive courtyard, extending all the way down to the beachfront. Numerous thatched roofed buildings are arranged around the open courtyard. Some of these house the various cooking stations and food preparation areas, the main bar, and also covered dining areas, for either private parties, or in the event of rain. The terrace extends for roughly 200 metre along the beachfront, so most tables have close proximity to the beach and enjoy the panoramic views over Chalong Bay, and the soothing rhythms of waves lapping onto the sandy beach.

Two new facilities were added to the seafood restaurant in 2007- near the pier is the glass enclosed, air-conditioned “Baybar”. Also with a small outdoor terrace, the bar is a good option for either pre-dinner cocktails, or just some evening drinks and taking in the views.

Adjacent in another building is the “K1 Kaffe”– which provides a pleasant cafe experience in an interior of high timber ceilings, and comfortable woven cane furniture. Open early in the mornings for breakfasts, and all day for coffee and light cafe dishes such as pastries and desserts. The room is also popular for private parties.

A decades old reputation for serving excellent Thai seafood dishes is the essential factor that continues to make Kan Eang@Pier stand out as a restaurant- in a resort island not exactly lacking in numbers of “Thai seafood restaurants”. And the location in Chalong Bay at the southern end of the island is quite a distance from the main tourist population areas on the west coast- Patong Beach etc.. But the trip is obviously well worthwhile, as the seafood dishes served at Kan Eang@Pier are consistently first class – but not at exorbitant prices that might have been expected for such a quality venue. Live fishes can be selected from water tanks, and then cooked in a variety of methods that compliment the fleshes of the different species. Shellfish such as crabs, oysters and lobsters are a specialty. In addition to the Thai seafood dishes, many other classic Thai dishes such as chicken in pandanus leaves, are on the menu. Selections of Japanese cuisine such as sashimi and sushi are available, and also a number of western dishes can be ordered from the kitchens.

The drinks from the bar include fresh tropical fruit cocktails, smoothies, beers, a limited wine selection, and coffees and teas.

The owners of Kan Eang@Pier, with many years of experience, have created the prefect formula for seafront dining on a resort island- serve the freshest fish in authentic Thai style preparations, maximise the natural attractiveness of a wonderful beach front location, keep the service and style friendly and efficient, without pretensions, and set prices that will not cause distress when the final bill is presented. This continues to set them apart from the multitude of other seafood restaurants on the island.