Best Restaurants & Food in Chiang Mai
114 places found in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai's food culture is distinct from Bangkok and the south — Northern Thai (Lanna) cuisine features dishes you won't find elsewhere in the country. Khao soi, the iconic coconut curry noodle soup, is the city's signature dish, with every local having their favourite stall. Sai oua (herbal sausage), nam prik ong (tomato-pork dip), and gaeng hang lay (Burmese-influenced pork curry) round out the northern specialities.
Beyond Lanna food, Chiang Mai has become a hub for health-conscious and international dining. The Nimman area is packed with excellent cafes, organic restaurants, and fusion spots. The Warorot Market and surrounding food stalls offer the most authentic local experience. For a true cultural dining experience, try a khantoke dinner — a traditional Lanna meal served on a raised pedestal tray with multiple dishes and classical dance performances.
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The South African Cafe, Restaurant & Rooftop
A hidden gem café and rooftop restaurant serving South African cuisine in the heart of Chiang Mai.
La Vida Hostel
A spotless western-style hostel and restaurant in central Chiang Mai, known for Alsatian cuisine and rooftop pool.
Street food for local
A no-frills local street food spot in Chiang Mai's Si Phum area, open weekday mornings only.
LayLam Home Cooking
A beloved Chiang Mai home cooking spot serving authentic Thai evening meals on Sridonchai Rd.
Ikigai Restaurant
A creative Western-Japanese fusion dining experience in Chiang Mai, built around an ever-changing chef's tasting menu.
Khum Hmon Somm
A family-run northern Thai kitchen in Hai Ya, beloved for its khao soi and warm, unhurried atmosphere.
Chai “N” Thai @ Nimman Indian Restaurant Best & Nearest North Indian-South Indian Vegan ,Non veg Halal Meat, Gluten free Food
Authentic North and South Indian restaurant in Nimman, serving halal, vegan, and gluten-free options daily.
B Samcook Home16
Beloved home-style Thai eatery in Chiang Mai's Hai Ya neighbourhood, open six days a week.
The OT Dispensary - OLD TOWN
A laid-back cannabis dispensary and lounge in Chiang Mai's Old Town with a rooftop, PS5, and friendly staff.
Glyn Chiangmai Thai Cuisine กลิ่นเชียงใหม่ไทยคูซีน – Breakfast, Brunch & Lunch with Local Charm
Charming Northern Thai café on Prapokklao Road serving breakfast, brunch, and lunch with authentic local flavour.
Another World
An evening dining destination in Chiang Mai's Old City, open nightly from 6pm to midnight.
Friend's Table (reservations required)
A reservation-only fine dining experience in Chiang Mai's Hang Dong area, serving creative multi-course menus in an intimate woodland setting.
Ghin
Refined Thai dining in Chiang Mai's Old City, blending Lanna-inspired flavours with attentive, personalised service.
Sapiens Restaurant
An intimate fine-dining restaurant in Chiang Mai blending Thai and Western flavours, open evenings only.
The Gad Lanna and Kam Lobby Lounge
Upscale all-day dining lounge inside Chiang Mai's InterContinental hotel, open daily from breakfast to late evening.
Garden to Table Chiangmai
Farm-to-table dining in Chiang Mai's old city, with fresh local produce and budget-friendly prices.
Rodlamun
A well-regarded daytime eatery on Jhaban Road serving authentic Thai food in a casual, unpretentious setting.
ด่อง-Dông.cnx (local food)
Evening Northern Thai dining spot on Prapokklao Road, known for authentic flavours and small plates.
HONG's Sky Bar
Rooftop bar and dining at the InterContinental hotel, open nightly from 4 PM with panoramic city views.
Bistro Terrace
A highly regarded bistro on Samlarn Road serving delicious food and coffee in a relaxed terrace setting.
Blanc Chiang Mai
A cosy Italian-leaning restaurant in Chiang Mai's Suthep area, known for quality steaks and relaxed ambience.
ลอยเคราะห์ไทยฟู้ดส์
Late-night Thai street food spot in Chiang Mai's Chang Khlan area, serving fresh, home-style dishes until 3am.
Chada Vegetarian Restaurant Chiang Mai
Budget-friendly vegetarian Thai food in Chiang Mai's old city, open daily with a strong local following.
Kang Jingjai
Northern Thai restaurant inside Chiang Mai's Jing Jai Market, known for fusion-inflected dishes and fresh market ingredients.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I find the best khao soi in Chiang Mai?
The most famous spots include Khao Soi Khun Yai (widely considered the best), Khao Soi Mae Sai near the Old City, and Khao Soi Lam Duan Fah Ham near the river. Each has a slightly different style — some creamier, some spicier. Expect to pay 50-80 THB per bowl.
What food markets should I visit in Chiang Mai?
Warorot Market (Kad Luang) is the main day market with excellent prepared food. The Saturday Walking Street (Wualai) and Sunday Walking Street (Ratchadamnoen) have the best night market food. Thanin Market is a lesser-known local favourite for morning noodles.
Is Chiang Mai good for vegetarian and vegan food?
Exceptionally so. Chiang Mai has Thailand's largest vegetarian and vegan dining scene. Many restaurants cater specifically to plant-based diets. Try Pun Pun (organic Thai vegetarian), Reform Kafe (vegan), or the Jay (vegetarian) food stalls at any temple festival.