Michelin-Star Chef Top Russell’s New Restaurant
SōL Phuket is a new all-day dining spot near Bang Tao Beach, opened in late 2024 by Chef Top Russell. If that name sounds familiar, he’s the Thai chef behind Mia in Bangkok, which has held a Michelin star for three consecutive years. Sol is his hometown project, a return to the island where he grew up.
The Space
SōL Phuket is bright and modern with yellow walls, wooden furniture, and comfortable seating. There’s a long bar with woven rattan stools and a lounge area with colourful cushions. Big windows let in lots of natural light. The name Sol means “sun” in Latin, which fits the whole feel of the place.
The Food
Sol serves breakfast, brunch, and dinner. The menu mixes Western comfort food with Thai dishes, all made with proper technique. We tried the beef with garlic chips and coriander, the roast chicken with a rich jus, and a green curry. Everything was well executed. The chicken was especially good, with juicy meat and crispy skin.
They also do classics like Caesar salad and tater tots for the kids. Early visitors have been calling the khao soi one of the best on the island.
About Chef Top Russell
Top Russell has an interesting background. He was born in Phuket, moved to the Isle of Wight in the UK at 15, and then built his career in fine dining. He became the first Thai chef to earn a Michelin star for Western cuisine in Thailand. Forbes named him to their 30 Under 30 Asia list, and BK Magazine gave him their Best Young Chef award.
His Bangkok restaurant Mia, which he runs with pastry chef Michelle Goh, is on Sukhumvit Soi 26. It’s known for modern European cooking with Thai ingredients. Sol is a more relaxed version of that approach.
Location
Finding Sol can be tricky. The address says Boat Avenue Lakefront, but it’s actually about 450 metres northeast of Boat Avenue itself, in a new development. Look for the yellow pineapple sign on the building’s facade.
SōL Phuket Info
Location: Bang Tao – near Boat Avenue
Address: Boat Avenue Lake Front 248 Bandon-Cherngtalay Rd, Thalang District, Phuket 83110
Hours: 8 am – 11 pm
Phone: 084 364 4919
Website: Click here
SōL Phuket Map
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