In a small street off of the beachfront road in Patong, you will find a small hidden gem that is well known throughout the island for their amazing Indian and Arabian cuisine. Arabia has been cooking up a storm for years with their finely decorated restaurant covered in exquisite tiles, pillows and fabrics.

Each table reflects an intimate tent in the Arabian dessert and offers privacy in an otherwise busy area of Patong. The large menu is chock-full of incredibly flavorful dishes and is split into Arabian, Indian and Thai sections with an abundant amount of vegetarian options. As a light and yummy starter, the fattoush salad with tomatoes, cucumber, mint and apple vinegar is the perfect way to get your appetite going. With pieces of fried pita cubes thrown in throughout, this salad is refreshing, crunchy, crisp and delicious.

Another option, depending on the number of people you are with, is the Arabian platter. This huge plate of hummus, kebabs and shish taouk served with warm Arabia bread is tasty and abundant enough to serve as a main for two or a starter for a group. The hummus is super fresh with a nice drizzle of smooth, spicy olive oil to give it a little kick and goes perfectly well with the warm, homemade bread. As for the kebabs and shish taouk, the meat is extremely tender and has amazing spices throughout without being to overwhelming. This platter is an excellent way to try a few different things on the menu or to introduce someone to this type of amazing cuisine. As far as masala goes, a must-eat is the chicken tikka. Super creamy, super smooth, with a good amount of heat and a delicate coconut finish, it goes perfectly with the vegetable biryani, which is full of flavor and cooked to the ultimate texture.

However, the absolute must-try dish is the amritsari fish. Beautifully golden-red, crispy batter on the outside, and tender flaky fish on the inside, this dish is full of texture and flavor! The batter has a spicy, salty taste that melds wonderfully with the soft, light flavor of the fish and is great accompanied with naan, biryani or masala. Arabia imports many of their spices, and it is very clear that the recipes are all authentic and well thought out before reaching the menu. Breads, cottage cheese and yoghurts are all homemade and give a very down to earth and home-style vibe to every dish.

Arabia is definitely the perfect place to bring guests or loved ones who love Indian and Arabian food, or for those keen to try it. With their beautiful décor, incredible menu and wonderful staff, all in the heart of Patong, it’s easy to see why they have become a staple among locals and expats and a must-try for anyone looking where to eat in Phuket.