The South African Cafe, Restaurant & Rooftop

Tucked down a quiet soi in the Sriphum neighbourhood inside Chiang Mai's old city moat, this café and rooftop restaurant brings an unexpected taste of South Africa to northern Thailand. The combination of a relaxed ground-floor dining space and an open rooftop terrace sets it apart from the surrounding Thai eateries, making it a genuine discovery for travellers exploring the area on foot. The menu draws consistent praise for its quality and value, with standout dishes including fish and chips served with homemade chips and house-made tartar sauce. Visitors note the food is freshly prepared and arrives at the table warm, with knowledgeable staff on hand to walk guests through the menu. The rooftop is a particular draw, offering a comfortable, unhurried setting to eat, drink, and take in the surrounding views. Open seven days a week from noon until 10pm, the venue suits both lunch and evening visits equally well. As a smaller, independently run spot without a listed website, reservations may not be available in advance — arriving early during peak evening hours is advisable to secure a rooftop table. Its location on Soi Sanam Kela Lane 1 means it is within easy walking distance of the old city's main landmarks, making it a convenient stop for travellers already exploring the area.