97 Ministore

Tucked into the laid-back town of Pai in Mae Hong Son province, this family-owned ministore has carved out a loyal following among both long-term expats and travellers craving a taste of home. Unlike the chain convenience stores that dominate much of Thailand, this small independent shop specialises in food items that are genuinely difficult to source elsewhere in the region — think imported ingredients, homemade yogurt, cheese, milk, and a rotating selection of fresh-baked breads and croissants made on-site. The shop functions as something of a one-stop resource for self-catering travellers, with a well-stocked range of Western pantry staples alongside freshly prepared pastries and a coffee bar. Reviewers have highlighted the ability to pick up specific ingredients for home cooking — from banana bread components to deviled egg fixings — that simply would not be found at a standard Thai convenience store. The atmosphere is modest and practical rather than polished, with the focus firmly on product selection and personal service. Good to know: the store keeps consistent hours across all seven days of the week, opening at 08:00 and closing at 20:00, making it easy to plan a visit around other activities in Pai. For travellers renting accommodation with a kitchen, or anyone on an extended stay in the area, this is a practical first stop for stocking up on quality staples.