Phuket

French cooking on Phuket is spread between the island's west-coast beach areas and Phuket Old Town, with restaurants that lean on Andaman seafood and serve a mix of residents and holidaymakers. The choice is smaller than in Bangkok but covers bistros, a brasserie and one tasting-menu room.

L'Arôme by the Sea above Kalim Bay is Michelin Selected and pairs contemporary French technique with local seafood and sunset views. Bisou Phuket, the island branch of the Bangkok restaurant, serves modern French sharing plates and a signature beef Wellington. Little Paris on Boat Avenue is a Parisian-style brasserie open from breakfast to late, and Çava Bien Marché in the Old Town is a bistronomy kitchen where a Basque-born chef cooks foie gras, snails and grilled steaks.

Book ahead in the high season from November to April, especially for sunset tables at Kalim Bay. Dress is relaxed resort wear at most places. Distances on the island are long, so allow time for taxis or a hired car between Patong, Bang Tao and the Old Town. Prices run from mid-range bistro meals to a full tasting menu.