Tropical Legendary Cocktails
Located just 30 minutes away from the sprawling Hanuman World adventure park, the legendary KEP Restaurant & Bar has quickly risen to become one of Phuket’s hottest destinations for creative, Instagram-worthy cocktails and sublime Thai cuisine. This vibrant open-air bar and eatery perfectly blends innovative mixology with a stunning natural backdrop overlooking the park’s iconic Roller coaster.
For cocktail aficionados visiting Phuket, KEP needs to be at the very top of your must-visit list. The mixology team here approaches drink-making as a true art form, combining pristine local ingredients, premium spirits, and avant-garde techniques to craft cocktails that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
A Tropical Cocktail Masterclass
One of KEP’s signature cocktails that immediately catches the eye is the Phuketini, a gorgeous pink-hued martini made with butterfly pea flower tea, fresh lychee, and premium Thai rice vodka. This vibrant, floral-forward sipper arrives adorned with an edible orchid garnish which makes for an Instagrammable show-stopper.
Another fan favorite is the playfully-named Monkeying Around, a whimsical tiki-inspired cocktail combining dark rum, passionfruit, orange, and warm baking spices served in a quirky ceramic monkey mug. Or you can cool down with the refreshing Tom Yum Cooler, a spicy-sweet cocktail infused with the iconic flavors of the popular Thai soup like lemongrass, kaffir lime, and chili.
In addition to their cocktail creations, KEP’s beverage menu also features an impressive array of locally-brewed craft beers, premium sakes, fruit-forward natural wines, and spirit-free botanical mocktails.
Culinary Creativity
While the cocktails may be the star of the show at KEP, the food menu is equally as inspired and craveable. The kitchen team takes classic Thai dishes and ingredients and infuses them with fresh, modern techniques and creative twists.
You’ll find delicious shareable plates like the khao soi noodles with a perfectly oozy soft egg, or the ultra-tender entrée of massaman beef cheek curry. There are also wood-fired pizzas topped with distinctly Thai toppings like roasted duck, peppery MSG sauce, and herbs.
For a decadent sweet finish, don’t miss the coconut crème brulee or pineapple upside-down cake served with coconut ice cream. It’s the perfect mix of local Thai flavors with French patisserie flair.
An Outdoor Paradise Setting
One of the biggest draws of KEP Bar is its picture-perfect outdoor setting surrounded by trickling waterfalls, lush jungle foliage, and panoramic views of the soaring Roller coaster in the distance. The bar and dining area are nestled within a sweeping covered pavilion, with plush modern seating and overhead fans to keep things comfortable.
As evening falls, the space transforms with romantic hanging lanterns and fire pits that illuminate the space with a warm, welcoming glow. It sets the ideal ambiance for lingering over KEP’s craft cocktails while soaking in the stunning Phuket scenery.
There are also semi-private alcoves and secluded lounge spaces woven into the natural landscape that are perfect for a romantic date night or special occasion. Guests can even schedule private dining experiences in KEP’s secret garden grotto with unbeatable views of Hanuman World’s iconic monuments and attractions.
Drink in the Local History
When Hanuman World first opened in 2019, KEP immediately established itself as the culinary crown jewel and must-visit dining experience at the adventure park. The bar’s namesake is inspired by the lush, ancient Khao Phing Kan islands off the coast of Phuket. These iconic isles consisted of staggering limestone karst towers emerging from the turquoise Andaman Sea.
KEP pays tribute to these majestic natural wonders through its stunning outdoor architectural design and aesthetic. The bar’s open-air pavilions, tropical landscaping, and towering rock formations are intended to evoke the jaw-dropping scenery of the islands.
In the years since its debut, KEP has continued to evolve its cocktail and cuisine offerings while honoring Thai ingredients and culture. The mixology team is constantly experimenting with innovative new techniques and finding creative ways to incorporate Phuket’s diverse botanical bounty into their craft cocktails.
Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast, food lover, or simply looking to soak in Phuket’s natural splendor, an evening spent imbibing and dining at KEP promises to be an unforgettable, multi-sensory experience. Prepare to have your tastebuds dazzled by their Thai-inspired culinary artistry!
