Moonshine might be that spot under the radar in Cherngtalay. I mean there aren’t many live music bars in this part of Phuket and even fewer jazz bars. So yeah Moonshine is kind of a big deal. If you haven’t been yet you are missing out.
I have been keeping this place for myself for too long.
Gabriel and his team brought this place back from the ashes. You might know Gabriel if you’ve lived or been to Bangkok. He was running some of the best bars like Havana Social. That’s how we met years ago. Gabriel is a true gentleman who knows his stuff and how to create the best spots in town. He understands what people want and delivers it with quality and consistency. I’m glad to see that he’s made his way to Phuket and is building something big with his company. Watch this space and follow @moonshine so you don’t miss out on their events.
I’ve been a regular at Moonshine for a while now and I apologize if I didn’t mention it earlier. This is one of those spots I’d like to keep to myself and just whisper about it to close friends. But with the low season setting in now I feel like if I don’t say anything about the places I love they might just disappear overnight. So today I’m sharing a place I love to go… (been there too many times alone ;-))
Why do I return?
First of all the music is fantastic but that’s not all. You probably have one of the best cocktail bars on the island here. No fancy stuff, no theatrics, just great cocktails and drinks with premium spirits like it should be. The menu is short; you’ll only find their signature drinks there. But no worries they’ll make your favorite classic if you ask. Or if you like your spirit neat or on the rocks just pick your favorite brand I bet they’ll have it.
THE FOOD
And oh my gosh the food. It’s rare that a bar serves food this good.
The Caesar salad
The Caesar salad (THB 360++) here is easily the best I’ve had in a very long time. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed. Instead of swimming in a pool of dressing, the crispy romaine is lightly coated, with just enough creamy texture clinging to each leaf to deliver those garlicky, briny and salty anchovy flavors. Every single bite hits you with a satisfying crunch from the crisp bacon and croutons, while a generous shaved parmesan adds a hit of savory umami alongside the bacon bits.
The lobster linguine
Don’t miss the lobster linguine (THB 690++). If you love garlic you will be served. I was very tempted to lick the plate. The pasta is slicked The pasta is slicked in a white wine garlicky sauce and chili pepper. Twist a nest of noodles around a plump piece of lobster for the ultimate bite. The sauce is so good with that sweet oceanic snap and a bright finish that makes you want to take another bite.
The tuna carpaccio
Another absolute favorite of mine is the tuna carpaccio (THB 490++). I’ve never had anything like it. The presentation is stunning. They slice the raw tuna razor-thin and dress it with a pop of citrus salty capers and a heavy drizzle of premium Sicilian olive oil. But the real game-changer is the crushed pistachios on top. That unexpected crunch against the buttery melt-in-your-mouth fish is genius.
The chicken wings
If you are looking for something more casual and comforting, the chicken wings (THB 360++) are just textbook perfect. Tip: ask for extra buffalo sauce if you love that sharp, tangy kick.
The Rolled Lasagna
Oh, and I almost forgot the rolled lasagna (THB 450++). Holy molly, what a hit! It’s packed with fresh basil, creamy ricotta, and a rich pork cheek ragu. It is exactly the kind of dish that makes you slam your fist on the table and exclaim”That is so fucking good!”.
THE DRINKS
Pineapple Boulevard: They mix Plantation pineapple rum and Nusa Cana coconut rum with falernum and fresh citrus. It's tropical, bright, and dangerously easy to drink.
Peanut Bliss: Sounds wild, but trust me on this one. It features peanut butter–washed Wild Turkey bourbon shaken with mango, plus a hit of Angostura and chocolate bitters. It's rich, complex and totally brilliant.
Noir Espresso: Forget your basic espresso martini. This wakes you up with Jose Cuervo Tradicional Silver Tequila, coffee liqueur, a touch of salted caramel and fresh coffee. It’s got that perfect salty-sweet edge.
Obsidian Negroni: A moody and darker twist on a classic. They swap the gin for whiskey and mix it with a house coffee-infused vermouth and Campari. It is intense, bitter and the perfect pairing for a jazz night.
Averna Affair: A stellar combination of Bulldog gin, bittersweet Amaro Averna, cherry, and fresh lime. It’s beautifully balanced, herbaceous and incredibly refreshing.
Don’t take my word for it, go there and see for yourself.
The service is on point. Marc the manager will come to you with a smile and it feels like you’ve known each other forever. That kind of personality is very rare in Phuket.
So what’s your favorite cocktail? Join me next Thursday for Ladies’ Night. Yes, we drink for free and so we can eat more and we will talk.
HOW TO GET THERE
Moonshine | Restaurant, Lounge & Jazz Bar
58/4-5 Lagoon Rd, Choeng Thale, Thalang District, Phuket 83110
Direction & Google Maps
Opens daily 5PM – midnight | Closed on Mondays
Parking in the street
Indoor and outdoor seating
Menu: click here
Book your table: here
Over 1000THB per person
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