Amidst the clear blue waters and lush landscapes of Thailand’s southern coast lies Phuket, a tropical haven famous for its gorgeous beaches and vibrant nightlife. But beyond its sandy shores and buzzing party hubs, this captivating island is also known for its deep-rooted tea culture, which embodies Thailand’s distinct traditions and hospitality.
Considered one of the country’s most cherished beverages, tea transcends mere refreshment and thirst-quenching. In Thailand, tea drinking is often likened to a ritual and a revered practice that brings people together and fosters deeper connections while nurturing the soul and body.
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Thailand’s History of Tea Growing
In ancient times, tea was consumed in traditional ceremonies and as a medicinal beverage that promoted health and well-being. But it wasn’t until the time of King Bhumibol Adulyadej that tea cultivation was introduced to the country to replace the trade and cultivation of opium.
Chinese immigrants also paved the way for introducing tea cultivation to Thailand along with their cultural traditions, particularly in the mountainous northern region, particularly in areas like Mae Hong Son, Doi Mae Salong, and Doi Wawee.
Eventually, tea consumption in Thailand has evolved to include a wide range of styles and preferences. Today, traditional brewing and steeping methods remain prevalent, but there has also been a surge in the popularity of ready-to-drink tea beverages and creative tea-based blends in hotels and resorts, local restaurants, cafes, private luxury villas, and just about everywhere.
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The Perfect Tea Time Snacks
Tea time in Phuket is not just about the beverage itself; it is also a great time to try delightful local delicacies to accompany it. One of Phuket’s oldest and most beloved tea-time snacks is the Pang Pia, a light and flaky pastry that can be made with either sweet or savory fillings. Other popular Thai snacks that pair well with tea are Khanom Pang (Thai toast), Khanom Mo Kaeng (Thai Custard Cake), and Khanom Buang (Thai Crispy Pancakes).
Best Places To Get Tea in Phuket
1. TEARAPY Lounge: Luxurious Grande High Tea
TEARAPY Lounge is an upscale library and tea room at the Avista Grande Phuket Karon Hotel. One of their signature offerings is the Grande High Tea, inspired by the high society culture of the 18th-century Peranakan community. The package comes with three Forest Friendly Tea variants from Northern Thailand and a selection of sandwiches, pastries, scones, and savory Thai delicacies.
Prices start at THB 599++ per person for the Mini High Tea and THB 899++ per couple for the Grande High Tea.
Location: 38 Soi Luang Phor Chuan Soi 1, Karon District, Amphur Muang, Phuket
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2. Cape Panwa Hotel: Chill Beachside Afternoon Tea
Cape Panwa Hotel elevates the beachside experience in Phuket with its delectable afternoon tea offering. It features a selection of teas, cakes, pastries, jams, desserts, and even sparkling wine—the perfect afternoon refreshment while enjoying one of Phuket’s breathtaking viewpoints of the Andaman Sea.
Price range per person: THB 910 – THB 1,800
Location: Mu 8 Sakdidej Rd, Tambon Wichit, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket
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3. Ang Ku Tea House: Thai-European Fusion
Ang Ku Tea House was named after a traditional celebration cake made from kneaded gelatinous flour and sweet mung bean paste. Located inside the Proud Phuket Hotel near Naiyang Beach, this teahouse offers a fusion of Thai and European cuisine and various desserts, handcrafted pastries, and tea blends, including the Proud Signature Classic Blend Tea.
Price range per person: THB 360 – THB 910
Location: 135 Soi Naiyang 2, Naiyang Beach, Talang, Phuket
4. RYN Authentic Tea & Slow Drip: Authentic Matcha Green Tea
RYN Authentic Tea & Slow Drip Coffee is a Japanese-style cafe along Krabi Road in Phuket Old Town. It offers a wide selection of locally produced and imported teas, traditional Phuket snacks, and coffee. Their Matcha Green Tea is a must-try, and patrons can even watch the staff prepare the drink while learning how this popular tea variant is grown and grounded.
Price range per person: THB 16 – THB 2,400
Location: 8 Krabi, Tambon Talat Nuea, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket
5. UnforgetTable: Vintage With A Twist
Those looking for a unique cafe in Phuket Old Town should check out UnforgetTable, a small and cozy tea shop along Yaowarad Road. This cafe is known for the owner’s interesting collection of vintage cups, which guests can use for their selected tea blends. Aside from its tea, this cafe is also well-loved for its coffee, pastries, and friendly staff.
Price range per person: THB 370 – THB 930
Location: 10 Yaowarad Rd., Phuket, Thailand
Tea holds a special place in Thai culture even today, serving as a bridge between the past and the present while offering a taste of Thailand’s rich history and distinct heritage. In Phuket and other parts of Thailand, it is more than just a drink—it is a way to celebrate the people’s culture and a way to bring people together.
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Featured Image by Delish
