Otto Steak and Thai Food Restaurant is Phuket’s best-kept secret, attended mainly by Thai locals and seasoned foreigners who have made Thailand their home. Otto Restaurant is tucked away on a quiet road, a 5 Minute scooter drive from Rawai Beach. The place doesn’t draw attention, but you feel its tranquil atmosphere radiating as soon as you approach.
Stepping inside feels more like entering a serine secret garden than a curb-side eatery. The soul of a dedicated gardener is undoubtedly present. The trees filter Thailand’s unforgiving sunlight, casting dappled shadows enjoyed by guests and the restaurant’s eight resident cats alike.
The peaceful surroundings, with little traffic noise and no music, allow guests to fully appreciate the sounds of the present birds and nature.
The owner welcomes us and sits us at our table. Only she and a young man are working today, solidifying the intimate and homely ambience. She quickly makes us feel comfortable and tells us where we will find nearby secluded beaches. Otto’s Restaurant opens up a still side of Phuket Island, starkly contrasted with the hustle and bustle of nearby Rawai Beach.
Chicken Satay served with Toast, Peanut Sauce and Cucumber Salad
We order the Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce and Spicy Cucumber Salad as a starter. The dish arrives served with pieces of crunchy toast as is traditional in Thailand, the owner explains.
The softly grilled, tender and juicy chicken meat is complemented by the toasted crunch and pairs deliciously with the subtle sweetness of the peanut sauce.The cucumber and chilli salad in vinegar adds a welcomed balance of freshness and spice to an otherwise sweet and mild dish.
Pad Thai with Chicken
Pad Thai is a delicate dish that provides a delightful contrast of textures. The slippery and smooth glass noodles complement the crunchy and fresh sensation of the bean sprouts and al dente carrots. The nutty flavour of the peanuts creates the signature Pad Thai note, while large chunks of scrambled eggs serve as a reminder of why Pad Thai is a popular breakfast favourite.
I opted for chicken instead of prawns simply because of a personal preference. The Pad Thai with prawns will likely similarly please a seafood lover.
Smoky Rice Noodles with BBQ Pork
The dish of smoky rice noodles with BBQ pork and egg was not only refreshing but also delectable. The flavour of the smoky BBQ pork was prominent and well-complimented the slimy noodles and crunchy greens. The well-balanced dish tantalised the taste buds. Similarly to the Pad Thai, large chunks of scrambled eggs added to the breakfast character of the dish, making it a perfect brunch choice.
Where Miracles Happen
As we finished our delicious meal, the owner brought us a couple of mysterious berries to try. We were to keep chewing them until she returned. After a few minutes of bewildered chewing, she returns with slices of lime for us next. To our surprise, the lime tastes sweet, like honey, instead of the usual sour taste.
The owner explained that the berry is a fruit of the Synsepalum dulcificum plant, more commonly known as the miracle berry, native to tropical Africa. Its miracle-like properties to shape-shift sour flavours into sweet are valued at 1200 BHT a kilo (approximately 35 USD). The miracle berry seeds given to us by Otto’s owner are now germinating in our kitchen. Fingers crossed that with some care, a second miracle will allow them to grow in European conditions.
Overall, Otto Restaurant is a hidden gem in Phuket. The tranquil atmosphere and intimate setting make for a truly memorable dining experience. The chicken satay with peanut sauce and spicy cucumber salad was a great starter, and the Pad Thai with chicken and the smoky rice noodles with BBQ pork were both classic dishes done right. If you’re in the area, I highly recommend giving Otto Restaurant a try. Just as we did, you will likely become a returning customer.
Address: Otto Steak and Thai Food Restaurant, Soi Tabuan, Wiset Road, Rawai, Phuket 83130 Thailand