Portofino Phuket

Portofino is the award-winning Italian restaurant, beautifully situated within the luscious grounds of the Phuket Meridien Beach Resort. With a beguiling choice of sumptuous indoor, terrace, or poolside dining, our first response to being greeted by the friendly staff was a sharp intake of breath as we appreciated the beauty of the setting!

The interior of the restaurant reflects a classic Italian trattoria, with warm lighting, natural textures and vibrant accents evoking Mediterranean charm. Signature red seating, crisp table settings and thoughtfully arranged layouts add a sense of sophistication and intimacy.

However, as it was the sunset hour, we were seated beside the huge outdoor pool, looking west, the sky etched with gloriously technicolour sunset hues, while vaulting palm trees were silhouetted dramatically against the sea and sky.

After relaxing with their speciality welcome beverage and chatting to the helpful staff, the extensive classic Italian menu proved to be no less dramatic than the sunset!

It captures that lovely Italian tradition of relaxed fine dining, with handcrafted sharing platters, pastas, soups, fresh seafoods, classic regional specialties and tempting desserts. Each dish is expertly prepared in the open kitchen, overseen by the long-time Swiss-Italian Executive Chef Daniel Kuser and using the finest quality ingredients, highlighting the purity, richness and vibrant flavours.

Somewhat overwhelmed by choice, we opted for Portofino’s signature dishes which celebrate the richness of authentic Italian cuisine, with bold flavours and premium ingredients.

The Paccheri alla Norcina was a hearty pasta paired with savoury salsiccia and creamy ricotta sauce, enhanced with aromatic black truffle, which proved to be a truly indulgent experience.

As a seafood lover, I relished their Aragosta con Capellini, featuring Phuket lobster served with delicate capellini in a light tomato and basil sauce, as well as their Risotto Nero Pescatore, a rich squid ink risotto topped with prawn, scallop, and calamari, capturing the essence of coastal Italian cuisine.

Other menu highlights included Burrata con Prosciutto di Parma, the classic Spaghetti alla Carbonara, and premium grilled selections such as the Wagyu Tomahawk Steak and fresh Fin de Clair oysters, ideal for sharing.

We finally surprised ourselves by finding tummy space for the signature Tiramisu - a sweet, authentic finale to a fabulous evening!