When it is located behind me the big mall Jungceylon, the food market Banzaan fresh market in Phuket is one of the most impressive experiences the tourist island has to offer. The market is branded as a local market, both to distinguish it, but also to attract more and more tourists, for whom it is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy an extraordinary shopping experience, and certainly different from the markets in Israel. The word Banzaan originates from China and means "fresh market", and it is definitely a market where everything arrives at the stalls the same day. The market is owned by one of the richest families in Phuket and is different from the other markets in that it provides a dry shopping experience, with clean floors and not on a kayak (unlike other floating markets).
The Banzaan fresh market is a market that emphasizes hygiene, cleanliness and aesthetics, in contrast to the other markets in the region, and in Thailand in general, which are more crowded and problematic in terms of cleanliness. This detail can be important to many tourists, who are less connected to the local and slightly scattered mass experience, and can buy in a slightly different style, and one that suits them.
The market is divided into several different areas, where on the ground floor you can buy food products of every kind you can think of: meat, fish, fruits, vegetables, and even exotic local products such as salad or dragon fruit. In any case, it is important not to give up the vegetable area, because it is very different from the Carmel market or Mahane Yehuda that we all know, as it is full of unique items that will help you, for sure if you like to cook the local food and experiment with Thai produce.
The fish area at Banzaan fresh market is also very special and unusual, and it offers a variety of fresh, special and exotic fish. You can start with well-known and popular varieties such as tuna and salmon, but also go in non-kosher directions such as lobster and other shellfish. Finally, the advanced will be able to buy eels or octopuses, and try their luck cooking them. After you are done with the dining floor, it is recommended to go up to the second floor, where you will find a place to sit and rest, and also enjoy local food stalls.
Having trouble choosing? The portions are small and relatively cheap, so you can find yourself choosing several types of food, and sharing them between you, with pleasure.
Banzaan fresh market offers not only food, but also fashion and clothing stalls, footwear, jewelry and more, all at market prices, which are very different from the prices at which you will find similar products in the adjacent mall and the huge shopping centers in Thailand. Banzaan fresh market is an extraordinary Thai experience, because it advocates aesthetics, but still manages to bring the exoticism of the local food to your plate.
Phuket is full of Israelis on a regular basis, and unlike other places, it is also relevant to an older crowd and families. This is a great attraction, as it is a place where you can spend an entire day with your family or friends, eat, rest, shop, and be impressed by one of the most diverse and beautiful markets in Phuket.
