The sun-kissed island of Phuket, known for its pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife, hides a tin-mining past that shaped its unique identity. This era gave birth to a unique cultural blend known as Peranakan, a fusion of Malay and Chinese heritage that continues to influence Phuket’s identity.
Amidst Phuket’s Sino-Portuguese treasures, House of Tin Baron stands as a testament to history’s grandeur. Once a social club for Chinese miners, it now invites you to savor tradition’s flavors in a modern setting. It’s a portal to Phuket’s past, waiting for your discovery.
Our feast at House of Tin Baron included classics like Southern Crab Curry with Vermicelli, the exceptional Phuket Style Stewed Pork Belly, and the unforgettable Southern Mango Spicy Salad with Prawn and Coconut, and Trevally Fish Sashimi with Spicy Dipping Sauce.
We had the privilege of dining here on the restaurant’s opening day, September 14, 2023, with The Phuket Collective, a group of passionate food writers, enthusiasts, and content creators. We were joined by Kelly, a journalist from Portland who moved to Phuket a year ago (you may know her as @vampiresofphuket), and Nathalie, an Aussie-born content creator who once called Phuket home before the pandemic (@getfatwithnat).
The Ambience & Decor
Once a bustling social club, the House of Tin Baron bears witness to history. It was a gathering place for the prosperous Chinese community who flocked to Phuket in pursuit of tin mining fortunes. Today, its historic walls have been gracefully repurposed as a Southern Thai restaurant, seamlessly blending tradition with modern elegance.
Stepping inside is akin to entering a bygone era, where colonial influences blend with Thai artistry. The brilliant mind behind this transformation is renowned architect Ong-ard Satrabhandhu, a Thai National Artist. He has masterfully fused traditional techniques with contemporary design. Inside, you’ll find rattan furniture set against a soothing blue-and-white palette, creating an inviting and relaxed atmosphere.
The House of Tin Baron proudly displays its historical architectural features, including keystone arches, semi-circular windows, and intricately carved limestone columns. As you walk into the high-ceilinged foyer, a grand chandelier bathes the space in natural light by day and casts a warm, golden glow by night. Upstairs, bookshelves encircle the upper floor, providing panoramic views of this majestic hall.
The Food
House of Tin Baron isn’t just about history and decor; the menu reflects the essence of Phuket’s culinary heritage, where authentic recipes are transformed into delectable dishes.
We started with the Southern Mango Spicy Salad with Prawn and Coconut (THB 265). The tanginess of mango melds perfectly with the creaminess of coconut, all crowned with tossed desiccated coconut meat. Each bite is a burst of contrasting flavors and textures, heightened by plump prawns.
The Deep Fried Sun-Dried Squid with Garlic (THB 340) is an honest treat. What sets it apart is that the squid still cradles its precious eggs, offering a delightful texture that surprises the palate.
Then there’s the Signature Tin Baron Chili Paste (THB 300), while it piqued our curiosity, it left us wishing for a touch more depth and complexity.
The Baked Prawns with Vermicelli (THB 340) is a delightful creation. Stir-fried prawns meet crispy sataw (stinky beans), spring onions, and greens, creating a non-spicy yet flavorful dish.
Don’t miss the Trevally Fish Sashimi with Spicy Dipping Sauce (THB 150). It’s a must-try. The crudo fish, seasoned with a spicy sauce, bursts with flavors, especially when paired with paco fern, garlic, mint, and fried shallots.
For those craving a classic, the Southern Crab Curry with Vermicelli (THB 380) takes center stage. Though it was good, it didn’t reach the heights of exceptional.
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show – the Phuket Style Stewed Pork Belly (THB 250), also known as Moo Hong. It’s truly exceptional. Succulent, tender, and wonderfully balanced, this dish is an absolute must-try. The peppercorn adds a delightful kick without overpowering the dish’s harmony.
The Southern Stir-Fried Pork with Yellow Curry Paste brings together bold flavors of chili, green peppercorn, and kaffir lime leaves in a delightful symphony of taste.
House of Tin Baron also offers Western dishes and a selection of classic Thai offerings from Central Thailand, our focus revolving around savoring their signature Southern Thai and Phuketian delicacies.
Dessert brought us the Preserved Southern Mango with Ice (THB 120), a personal favorite. Preserved sour mango, fresh pomelo, and kaffir lime zest, with a hint of saltiness, offer a perfect, refreshing conclusion to the meal.
Why It's a Must-Visit in Phuket
Travel is more than sightseeing; it’s a journey into a destination’s soul. The House of Tin Baron opens a unique door to Phuket’s past and its delectable flavors. It’s an invitation to savor Phuket’s essence while immersed in the grandeur of a bygone era.
This restaurant, born from history’s pages, is a testament to the island’s rich heritage and culinary artistry. It’s a place where time seems to pause, and the spirit of Southern Thai cuisine springs to life with every dish.
I’ll definitely be back, especially for the Stewed Pork Belly. It’s the perfect spot to introduce friends and family to the delights of Southern Thai cuisine. It’s an ideal place to share the wonders of Southern Thai food with loved ones in this splendid setting.
One standout feature of the House of Tin Baron is its unwavering commitment to sourcing local ingredients and nurturing relationships with nearby farmers. This not only guarantees exceptional cuisine but also contributes to the community by supporting local farmers and producers.
How to Get There and Book
The House of Tin Baron
Located at 18 Satun Rd, Talat Nuea, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000
Open daily from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
You can check their menu at https://tinbaronphuket.bio.link/
For booking pr@tinbaron.com or contact them via FB https://www.facebook.com/tinbaronphuket
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