Creative international cuisine, an incredible wine list and sensational views combine for a seaside dining experience at Rock Salt, located on Phuket's famous Nai Harn Beach

By Amy Bensema

          With a prime location on one of Phuket’s most popular beaches, Rock Salt is a trendy, al fresco eatery that serves up outstanding Mediterranean fare, super fresh seafood and classic Thai favorites in an idyllic setting. The views from the restaurant are incredible, and it is a fantastic place to enjoy a leisurely lunch or chillout with a cold cocktail or a nice glass of wine before the sun sets.

          The day that Phuket Foodies Official was invited to Rock Salt was a completely stunner. Personally, I was excited to spend the afternoon at Rock Salt as I’d only ever been there in the evening. Trust me when I say that the afternoon did not disappoint.

          My dining partner and I were seated at a table in the corner and immediately served up sparkling water and a chilled bottle of Monsoon Valley White Shiraz. Executive Chef Mark Jones and Chef de Cuisine David Attwater immediately come out to greet us, explain a bit about the restaurant’s menu and let us know what we can expect to nibble on for the duration of the afternoon.

          The first dishes to arrive to the table included a Panko Breaded Calamari. Zesty and fresh, the tender calamari is stir-fried with oyster sauce, garlic and chili and served with a lemon dressed salad of simple greens. The dish is spicy and tangy and a really good introduction to the restaurant’s diverse menu. Rock Salt Ceviche is served next. Daily caught raw sea bass marinated in lime, Maldon sea salt, extra virgin olive oil, with coriander, mint, chili and passion fruit, it’s a burst of fresh flavors with every bite. The passion fruit really adds a citrusy punch to the ceviche. While we are served Rock Salt Ceviche as a starter, it is also perfect for a light meal.

          Before going any further, it’s important to note that the restaurant and resort have a commitment to sustainable food sourcing, and the majority of the fresh seafood is sourced locally from the nearby Rawai fishermen’shu village. Diners are treated to some of the freshest, best seafood that the island offers at Rock Salt.

          I have a soft spot for Mediterranean food, so I was thrilled with the next dish that was served. There is no doubt that the Grilled Lamb Kofta is a popular favorite. The dish is spiced with mint and cumin served with tzatziki sauce, warm pita bread and a green salad. The flavor combination is great, and while the dish is filling, it’s not overbearing. The homemade pita bread that accompanies the Grilled Lamb Kofta is soft, fluffy and super moreish.

          The next dishes we are served showcase the high quality of food available at Rock Salt. Andaman Sea Bass Steak is a tantalizing combination of ingredients and the steak is Marinated in paprika, garlic and extra virgin olive oil, green mango and mint dressing, natural yogurt with a cucumber, coriander, shaved radish and rocket leaf salad. The green mango and mint dressing gives the Andaman Sea Bass Steak an unexpected kick – the dressing is just so fresh, tart and spicy and really a perfect accompaniment. Rock Salt Surf & Turf is up next, and as far as surf & turf options go, this one is really is sensational. It consists of Marble Score 9 Wagyu Rump Steak, Andaman Tiger Prawn, macerated Heirloom Tomatoes, Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Aged balsamic. The prawns are delicious, but the standout here is the steak. It is juicy, tender and absolutely cooked to perfection.

          We are completely stuffed when our plates are taken away, but of course there is dessert, and we can’t possibly say no! Triple Chocolate Brownie Sundae is rich and decadent, and hands down one of the best desserts I’ve had in quite some time. The dessert features layers of dulce de Leche, chocolate sablé, crème Chantilly & vanilla ice cream. It’s messy, it’s gooey and so very yummy.

          Rock Salt at The Nai Harn goes from strength to strength. While the location is an obvious advantage, the food is really exceptional. High quality ingredients and the creativity of Chef de Cuisine David Attwater truly make a meal at Rock Salt an enjoyable dining experience. Stop in for a lunch or just before sunset for a few drinks before dinner. The food is fantastic and the service seamless.

          Tucked into the northern corner of Nai Harn Beach, Rock Salt restaurant is part of The Nai Harn, one of Phuket’s most iconic five star resorts. The restaurant is open daily from 12:30pm until 10:30pm.

 

          While walk-ins are welcome, Rock Salt also takes reservations. Valet parking is available within the premises of the resort.

Rock Salt
Telephone: +66 (0) 7638 0200-10
Email: info@thenaiharn.com
Facebook: rocksaltphuket
Instagram: thenaiharnphuket

Download Menu: https://www.thenaiharn.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Menu_RockSalt-April-2018-low.pdf
Download Wine List: https://www.thenaiharn.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/wines_list_update-22-May-2018-low.pd