CRAFTs & Co.

CRAFTs & Co. is Phuket Old Town's original craft beer institution, set in a restored Sino-Portuguese shophouse at 91 Yaowarat Road. One of the first places on the island to take craft beer seriously, it remains a reliable escape from the usual Chang-and-Heineken line-up.

The list runs to 80+ craft beers from more than 20 brands, from Thai labels to imports from the US, Belgium and beyond, on draught and in bottles. Ask for Full Moon Brewworks' Chalawan Pale Ale if you want to try Phuket's own brewery. Choice varies from day to day, and some reviewers have found a shorter list on quieter days.

Inside, the renovated room is air-conditioned and decorated with pineapple-themed touches, and reviewers mention good music and friendly, upbeat staff. Food is a draw as well as the beer: simple snacks sit alongside Thai dishes such as curries, and the fresh pineapple juice is popular with anyone not drinking.

The shophouse setting, on one of Old Town's most atmospheric streets, makes for an easy, unhurried visit, and the cool interior is welcome after a hot afternoon walking the area. Its listing gives opening hours of 11am to 10pm daily, so it works as a lunch stop as well as an early-evening drink. It suits Old Town visitors and Phuket Town residents who want Thai craft beer without heading to the beach strips.