Intro
Most airline catering companies stick to supplying flights, but Thai Airways opened its kitchen as a public restaurant at Phuket Airport.
Bold move or desperate cash grab?
After a 2019 renovation, this third-floor dining spot serves the same food that goes on Thai Airways flights – but freshly made instead of reheated at altitude.
I tested whether airline catering translates to decent ground-level dining.
Here’s what you’re actually getting for your money.
Location
Third floor of Phuket International Airport, open 0600-2100 daily.
You’ll need to clear security first (level 2 departures), then take lifts or escalators up – the restaurant is immediately on your right.
This means it’s only accessible to ticketed passengers after security.
Factor in extra time if you’re dining here before departure, as you’ll need to return to your gate area afterwards.
The 2019 renovation created a modern space with booth seating and communal tables—Thai-inspired decor without going overboard on the theme park approach.
Value
Prices are reasonable for airport dining – dishes range from 180-350 baht.
That’s significantly less than Phuket’s tourist restaurant prices while maintaining better quality than most airport food courts.
Portions are generous enough to satisfy hungry travellers. Service is efficient without being rushed, and staff handle dietary requests competently.
Takeaway options are available if you’re running short on time, though eating fresh is obviously better than bringing airline catering onto your actual flight.
Menu Options
The menu features authentic Thai dishes like:
Khanom Jeen Namya Pu Bai Chaplu- rice noodles with crab curry and wild betel leaves.
Khao Pad Naam Prik Kung Siap – fried rice with shrimp paste and dried shrimp.
Khao Na Moo Hong- stewed pork belly with five-spice gravy over rice.
Chefs prepare meals fresh in the open kitchen rather than reheating pre-made portions.
The ingredients are locally sourced, which explains why flavours are more authentic than typical airport food.
Conclusion
Thai Airways restaurant succeeds because it treats airport dining seriously rather than serving overpriced tourist food.
Is it worth a visit?
Yes, especially if you have time before departure and want proper Thai food instead of generic airport options.
The authentic regional dishes and reasonable pricing make this a legitimate dining destination rather than just convenient airport fuel.
Skip it only if you’re running short on departure time or prefer familiar international cuisine.
For travellers wanting genuine Thai flavours before flying, this delivers better than expected results.
