Phuket’s dynamic hospitality scene has taken a bold step toward sustainability with the arrival of La Green Hotel & Residence, an innovative property redefining eco-conscious luxury. Located just 700 meters from the serene sands of Layan Beach and a short 20-minute drive from Phuket International Airport, La Green offers an alluring blend of modern design and environmental responsibility.
Built in adherence to Green Building standards, La Green Hotel & Residence integrates environmentally friendly technologies such as solar panels, LED lighting, and LOW-E glass. With digital check-ins, waste-sorting initiatives, and sustainable packaging, the property exemplifies a commitment to reducing its ecological footprint without compromising guest comfort.
Eco-Conscious Luxury for Families and Travelers
La Green Hotel & Residence isn’t just a place to stay—it’s an experience. Guests can enjoy a free-form swimming pool, a dedicated kids’ pool, an outdoor CrossFit arena, a serene yoga sala, and indulgent spa treatments. Whether you’re seeking a family getaway or a tranquil retreat, this eco-friendly haven caters to all.
JaakDin: From the Earth to Your Plate
The hotel’s flagship restaurant, JaakDin, takes its name from the Thai phrase meaning “from the earth.” True to its ethos, the restaurant specializes in slow food crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. With an in-house bakery and a focus on sustainability, JaakDin serves as a delightful culinary destination for any time of day.
As I indulged in their signature dishes, like their homemade pasta and freshly made pizza, I could taste the difference that local, organic produce makes. The menu is refreshingly wholesome, and their artisanal bakery is perfect for a morning coffee or take away treats.
Ambiance & Decor
JaakDin’s design harmoniously blends contemporary elegance with inviting warmth, creating a space that feels both stylish and approachable. The interiors feature a palette of rich, earthy tones, with velvet sofas in deep red and grey, blonde wooden accents, and tasteful lighting that softens the atmosphere. The layout is thoughtfully arranged, ensuring both intimacy and functionality, whether you’re dining as a couple or with a group. The open kitchen adds a dynamic energy, allowing diners to connect with the culinary process. Despite the chic design, one drawback during my visit was the dining area’s temperature, which felt uncomfortably cold and distracted from the otherwise cozy vibe.
The food
JaakDin is an all-day dining restaurant offering a menu that caters to every craving, from breakfast to dinner. Start your day with an indulgent breakfast, perfect for croissant lovers. For lunch and dinner, enjoy lighter options like fresh salads, or opt for something more substantial, such as a sharable charcuterie and cheese board, hearty sandwiches, burgers, wood-fired pizzas, and homemade pasta.
My first visit to JaakDin was for breakfast, where I sipped a smooth cappuccino paired with a visually striking croissant. While the croissant’s buttery layers were enticing, the dough fell slightly short of perfection—it was under-risen and slightly undercooked. Despite this, the attentive service during breakfast was memorable, with a knowledgeable waiter setting a welcoming tone for the day.
Returning for dinner, I indulged in a medley of dishes that showcased JaakDin’s diverse menu:
- Three Dips (THB 290): A vibrant trio of hummus, mutabal, and Muhammara served with crisp vegetable sticks. The Muhammara, with its smoky, nutty undertones, was a standout.
- Prosciutto, Fichi e Pecorino (THB 590): Parma ham paired with Chiang Mai figs, grilled ewe’s milk cheese, and a drizzle of wildflower honey. While indulgent, we had to remind the staff to bring the honey, an oversight that slightly dampened the dish’s harmony.
- Black Rivoli with Seabass (THB 350): A creative pairing of homemade black pasta and yellow datterino tomato sauce. While the pasta was faultlessly al dente, the sauce leaned more buttery than tangy, lacking the expected freshness.
- Quattro Stagioni Pizza (THB 420): A classic option with simple, familiar flavors. The crust could have been crispier, but reheating it the next day with a sprinkle of chili flakes brought it to life.
- Baby Back Pork Ribs (THB 490): Tender, flavorful, and falling off the bone, these ribs stole the show. Served with roasted potatoes and corn, this dish was the table favorite.
To accompany our meal, we opted for a glass of Syrah from John Dapetrosino, Sicily (THB 290). While the wine was flavorful, it was served too cold, which dulled its character.
Beverage Highlights
The beverage list at JaakDin is equally exciting, showcasing a thoughtful mix of local wines, craft beers, and signature cocktails:
- Local Wines: Highlights include selections from Monsoon Valley (Hua Hin) and GranMonte (Khao Yai), along with natural wines such as pét-nat and orange wines. Bottles start at THB 1,400.
- Craft Beers: Offerings from Full Moon Brewworks (Phuket), Mahanakorn (Bangkok), and Pheebok Sawasdee IPA (Mae Hong Son) bring a taste of Thai brewing excellence.
- Signature Cocktails (THB 320): Don’t miss the Hi Jack, crafted with the award-winning Kosapan Gin from Nonthaburi.
For non-drinkers, JaakDin offers teas from Monsoon Tea, sustainably grown in Chiang Mai’s forests.
Service
The service, while warm, lacked attentiveness during our dinner visit, and the indoor temperature was uncomfortably cold. These minor shortcomings, likely a result of the team still finding their rhythm, didn’t overshadow the restaurant’s potential for improvement.
Overgrown Lounge: A Well-Kept Secret in Phuket
On the third floor, Overgrown Lounge offers a refreshing departure from conventional bars. This atmospheric space feels like an urban jungle, blending natural materials with artistic flair. While it includes an open-air section, the main area is indoors, making it an inviting escape regardless of weather.
Helmed by award-winning mixologist Khun Tas, the cocktail menu at Overgrown Lounge celebrates botanical flavors and local ingredients. During our visit, we savored two exceptional drinks:
- Deciduous (THB 320): Made with Strangers and Sons Gin from India, this cocktail perfectly balances zesty citrus notes with the floral sweetness of lychee, all tied together with a subtle herbal twist.
- Nonthaburi Neon (THB 320): Featuring Kosapan Gin, black grass jelly, and Nammon tonic, this drink delivered nostalgic herbal flavors reminiscent of Thai desserts, reimagined in a sophisticated form.
Overgrown Lounge was the highlight of our evening—a remarkable bar that easily ranks among the best in Phuket. It’s a well-kept secret for now, but it’s only a matter of time before it becomes a favorite for those seeking exceptional drinks and a stylish yet nature-inspired atmosphere.
If you’re looking for a bar with innovative cocktails and a unique setting, Overgrown Lounge is a must-visit.
Final Thoughts
La Green Hotel & Residence represents a pioneering step in Phuket’s sustainable tourism landscape. From the eco-friendly ethos of JaakDin to the innovative mixology at Overgrown Lounge, the property offers an experience that’s both conscious and indulgent. While some aspects, like food consistency and service attentiveness, leave room for refinement, the overall vision of sustainable luxury is inspiring.
For travelers seeking a stay that aligns with their eco-conscious values—without compromising on style or comfort—La Green Hotel & Residence is a must-visit destination. Have you stayed at La Green or dined at JaakDin? Share your experiences in the comments below!
How to get there?
La Green Hotel & Residence
149 Moo 6 Cherngtalay, Thalang District, Phuket 83110 – Google maps for direction
Contact: 076 643 888 or info@lagreenhotel.com
Parking: outdoor and garage
For bookings https://lagreenhotel.com
