Best Places To Eat In Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, a city in northern Thailand, is known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and mouth-watering cuisine. With its abundance of street vendors, markets, and restaurants, it can be hard to narrow down the top places to eat. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, here are some of the best places to eat in Chiang Mai that will leave you craving more.

🍛 Khao Soi Khun Yai

If you’re looking for a dish that’s uniquely Chiang Mai, Khao Soi is a must-try. Khao Soi Khun Yai is a family-run restaurant that serves up some of the best Khao Soi in town. This coconut curry soup is made with egg noodles, chicken or beef, and topped with crispy noodles and fresh cilantro.

🍜 Huen Phen

Huen Phen is a charming restaurant that serves traditional Northern Thai cuisine. Their menu features dishes like Nam Prik Ong, a spicy tomato dip served with pork rinds, and Sai Ua, a spicy sausage made with lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves. The beautiful teakwood house and friendly staff make this restaurant a must-visit.

🍢 Chang Phueak Pork Satay

Located near Chang Phueak Gate in the Old City, Chang Phueak Pork Satay is a local favorite. This street vendor serves up juicy pork skewers that are grilled to perfection and served with a tangy dipping sauce.

🍦 I Berry

I Berry is a dessert lover’s paradise. This ice cream shop offers a variety of unique flavors like Pandan and Lychee, and their scoops are topped with fresh fruit and candy.

🍱 Dash! Teak House

Dash! Teak House is a stylish restaurant that serves up modern Thai cuisine. Their menu features dishes like Crab Fried Rice and Tom Yum Noodle Soup. The restaurant is located in a beautifully restored teak house and offers indoor and outdoor seating.

🍳 Rustic & Blue

Rustic & Blue is a trendy café that serves up delicious brunch dishes like Avocado Toast and Shakshuka. The café also offers a variety of fresh juices and specialty coffee drinks.

🍜 Khao Kha Moo Chang Phueak

Khao Kha Moo Chang Phueak is a street vendor that serves up tender braised pork leg that’s served over rice. The dish is topped with a boiled egg and drizzled with a flavorful sauce.

🍻 Beer Lab

Beer Lab is a craft beer bar that offers a variety of local and imported beers. They also offer a small selection of pub food like burgers and fries. The laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff make Beer Lab a great spot to relax and enjoy a cold brew.

🍜 Tong Tem Toh

Tong Tem Toh is a popular restaurant that serves up spicy Northern Thai cuisine. Their menu features dishes like Nam Prik Noom, a spicy green chili dip, and Lab Moo, a spicy pork salad. The restaurant’s location, near the Ping River, offers beautiful views while you dine.

🍢 Pa Daeng Noodle Shop

Pa Daeng Noodle Shop is a humble street vendor that serves up delicious noodle dishes. Their signature dish is the Khao Soi, which is made with crispy noodles, tender chicken, and a flavorful broth.

🍦 Snowman Gelato

Snowman Gelato is an Italian-style gelato shop that offers a variety of flavors like Dark Chocolate and Pistachio. The gelato is made with fresh ingredients and the shop also offers delicious sorbets for those who prefer something lighter.

🍛 Aroon Rai

Aroon Rai is a legendary restaurant that has been serving up Northern Thai cuisine for over 70 years. Their menu features dishes like Khao Soi and Kanom Jeen Nam Ngiao, a spicy noodle soup. The restaurant’s history and flavorful dishes make it a must-visit in Chiang Mai.

🍜 Khao Soy Nimman

This restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The restaurant serves up the classic Khao Soi dish, but also offers a vegetarian option. The restaurant is located in the trendy Nimman area and offers both indoor and outdoor seating.

🍢 Ming Kwan Vegetarian

Ming Kwan Vegetarian is a vegetarian restaurant that serves up traditional Thai dishes without any meat or seafood. Their menu features dishes like Tom Yum Soup and Pad Thai, and their ingredients are organic and locally sourced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best time to visit Chiang Mai for food lovers?

A: Chiang Mai is known for its food all year round, but the best time to visit is during the cooler months from November to February.

Q: Are there any vegetarian restaurants in Chiang Mai?

A: Yes, there are many vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Chiang Mai. Some popular options include Ming Kwan Vegetarian and Anchan Vegetarian.

Q: What is the difference between Northern Thai cuisine and Southern Thai cuisine?

A: Northern Thai cuisine is known for its use of herbs and spices, while Southern Thai cuisine is known for its use of coconut milk and seafood.

Q: Is street food safe to eat in Chiang Mai?

A: Yes, street food is generally safe to eat in Chiang Mai. Just be sure to choose vendors that are popular and have a high turnover of food to ensure freshness.

Q: What is the price range for meals in Chiang Mai?

A: The price range for meals in Chiang Mai varies, but you can expect to pay anywhere from 50 to 300 baht per meal.

Q: Can I find halal food in Chiang Mai?

A: Yes, there are many halal restaurants and vendors in Chiang Mai. Some popular options include Khun Yai Halal Food and Khao Soi Islam.

Q: What is the best way to get around Chiang Mai to find food?

A: The best way to get around Chiang Mai is by songthaew, which is a shared taxi that runs fixed routes around the city.

Q: Where can I find international cuisine in Chiang Mai?

A: There are many restaurants in Chiang Mai that serve international cuisine. Some popular options include Dukes, The Salad Concept, and The Hideout.

Q: What is the signature dish of Northern Thai cuisine?

A: The signature dish of Northern Thai cuisine is Khao Soi, a coconut curry soup that is made with egg noodles, chicken or beef, and topped with crispy noodles and fresh cilantro.

Q: Can I find Indian food in Chiang Mai?

A: Yes, there are many Indian restaurants in Chiang Mai. Some popular options include The House of Indian and Taste From Heaven.

Q: What is the most popular dessert in Chiang Mai?

A: The most popular dessert in Chiang Mai is Khao Niao Mamuang, sticky rice with sweet mango and coconut milk.

Q: Where can I find the best coffee in Chiang Mai?

A: There are many coffee shops in Chiang Mai that serve up delicious coffee. Some popular options include Ristr8to, Akha Ama Coffee, and Graph Café.

Q: What is the best way to try multiple dishes in Chiang Mai?

A: The best way to try multiple dishes in Chiang Mai is by visiting a food market like the Night Bazaar or the Saturday Walking Street.

Q: Can I find gluten-free options in Chiang Mai?

A: Yes, there are many restaurants in Chiang Mai that offer gluten-free options. Some popular options include Rustic & Blue and Salad Concept.

Q: What is the best way to order food in Chiang Mai if I don’t speak Thai?

A: Many restaurants in Chiang Mai have English menus, but if you’re unsure, you can always point to the dish you want or use a translation app on your phone.

Conclusion

Chiang Mai is a food lover’s paradise, with an abundance of options to suit all tastes and budgets. From street vendors to upscale restaurants, you’re sure to find something that will satisfy your cravings. With this list of the best places to eat in Ch