Baan Mae Café & Restaurant
Set within the beautifully maintained grounds of a former grand home in the Chang Phueak neighbourhood, Baan Mae Café & Restaurant offers a dining experience that goes well beyond the food itself. The restored heritage setting — with garden seating and elegant interior spaces — creates an atmosphere that feels both special and relaxed, drawing a loyal mix of locals and international visitors to this corner of northern Chiang Mai. The kitchen focuses on Thai cuisine, with dishes that consistently draw praise for their quality and presentation. Visitors highlight standout items including shiitake mushroom preparations, and the attentive, hospitable service is frequently noted as a highlight in its own right. Whether seated by a window overlooking the gardens or in the outdoor area, the setting elevates even a casual meal into something memorable. Open daily from 11:00 to 22:00, the restaurant is a reliable option for both lunch and dinner throughout the week. The mid-range pricing makes it accessible without feeling like a compromise, and the spacious layout means it handles busy periods better than many popular spots in the city. Checking the Facebook page before visiting is worthwhile for current menu information. The Santitham location sits north of the old city and is easily reachable by ride-share or a short tuk-tuk trip from central Chiang Mai.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Baan Mae Café & Restaurant, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
We loved everything about this restaurant! The atmosphere was gorgeous… the service was outstanding. It was obvious that they wanted to make sure that everything was perfect and it was. We had shiitake mushrooms, chicken and cashews(less salt would’ve been better)and Grilled New Zealand salmon steak with mango salsa which was stellar!! We will definitely return when we’re in the area!!
Arrived at the restaurant to be seated very quickly at a lovely table in the window overlooking the gardens. We were concerned the place would be busy however there was plenty of room and we were made very welcome by the staff, especially Sue who took time to explain to us the food on the menu. We had fried fish, Tom Yum soup, stirfry chicken and vegetable fried rice which was plenty of food for both of us and accompanied by delightful cocktails! It was a very tasty and affordable dining experience, we would go back again if we had more time in Chiang Mai!
Is there any better restaurant than this in Santitham, Chiang Mai?I am sure.... Beyond its classic atmosphere, I wonder if there's truly a restaurant that can match this place. Even after trying brunch at 4-star and 5-star hotels, nothing surpasses the food at Baan Mai Restaurant. What makes this place even more special is an unforgettable staff member named Moo. She is incredibly kind and attentive. I still remember last year-end when our food was delayed - she was so genuinely apologetic about it. She treats guests like an owner would, with such care and warmth. I want to express my deepest gratitude to her. Today, she recognized me right away and greeted me so warmly! Her sense of responsibility is outstanding, and I will never forget her. Everything at Baan Mai Restaurant is delicious. The Tom Yum Goong is especially perfect for Korean palates. Even the cocktails are beautiful and taste amazing. The Pad Thai is exceptionally delicious too. I first visited this place a year ago, and now whenever I come to Chiang Mai for my monthly stays, visiting this restaurant is always a highlight of happiness. Just as Chiang Mai has its hidden gems, Baan Mai is #1 on my list of must-visit restaurants. It's the best of the best in Santitham!
Location Info
72 Thanon Santiuk, Tambon Chang Phueak, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand+66 91 854 7289www.facebook.com/Baanmae-Cafe-Restaurant-CNX-101865712055667/Tips for Visiting Restaurants & Food
Learn the Spice Scale
Say 'mai pet' for no spice, 'pet nit noi' for a little spice, or 'pet mak' if you want it Thai-hot. Most cooks will default to a toned-down version for foreigners unless you specify otherwise.
Follow the Crowds
The busiest street stalls are almost always the best — high turnover means fresh ingredients and a recipe that locals vouch for. An empty restaurant at dinner time is a red flag.
Ice Is Safe
Factory-made tube or cylinder ice (used in virtually all restaurants and stalls) is made from purified water and is safe to consume. You don't need to skip the iced Thai tea.
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Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
15°C – 36°C(59°F – 97°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January & Songkran (April)
Getting there
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) has direct flights from Bangkok (1 hr), Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Overnight sleeper trains from Bangkok take ~12 hrs.
Getting around
- •Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks)
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Motorbike rental (฿150–250/day)
- •Tuk-tuks (negotiate price first)