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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Chada Vegetarian Restaurant Chiang Mai
Budget-friendly vegetarian Thai food in Chiang Mai's old city, open daily with a strong local following.
Food Patio
A popular open-air food court in Fa Ham offering a wide variety of affordable Thai dishes.
Kang Jingjai
Northern Thai restaurant inside Chiang Mai's Jing Jai Market, known for fusion-inflected dishes and fresh market ingredients.
HONG's Sky Bar
Rooftop bar and dining at the InterContinental hotel, open nightly from 4 PM with panoramic city views.
ลอยเคราะห์ไทยฟู้ดส์
Late-night Thai street food spot in Chiang Mai's Chang Khlan area, serving fresh, home-style dishes until 3am.
North Sea Seafood
A well-regarded seafood restaurant in Chiang Mai's Tha Sala area, serving fresh catches at mid-range prices.
Bodhi Terrace
Riverside dinner terrace at the Anantara hotel, open evenings only with elegant outdoor dining along the Ping River.
Neighborhood Community
A lively food court complex on Chang Moi Road with multiple restaurants, bars, and chilling vibes.
Kung Yim Shop (2nd Branch)
A popular buffet restaurant on Ratchawong Road serving fresh seafood and Thai classics for 850 baht.
Busarin
A Michelin-recognised family restaurant in Chiang Mai's Pa Tan neighbourhood serving traditional Northern Thai curries and home-style dishes.
Riverfront Restaurant Chiang Mai
Riverside dining in Chiang Mai's relaxed Wat Ket district, serving Thai cuisine with waterfront views.
Mr. KAI Restaurant
Affordable local Thai food on Jhaban Road, open daily from 9am to 9pm near Chiang Mai's old city.
L'éléphant
A refined French restaurant in Chiang Mai's Su Thep district, open evenings Tuesday through Sunday.
The garden by lemongrass
A garden restaurant on Loi Kroh Road serving Thai cuisine nightly until 1 AM in a relaxed outdoor setting.
Aquila
Intimate Italian dinner restaurant in Chiang Mai's Tha Sala area, beloved for its chef's tasting menu.
PARI-
Michelin-recognised evening dining spot in Chiang Mai's historic Phra Sing district, open nightly from 6 PM.
Thai Food Resto
A popular Old City Thai restaurant known for generous portions and rich, flavourful classics.
We-La-Dee Cafe & Restaurant
A hidden gem cafe-restaurant in San Sai with striking decor, wide-ranging menu, and consistently praised service.
Street food - fried pancake
A beloved evening street stall near Chiang Mai's old city serving freshly made roti and fried pancakes from 15 baht.
Alice's Restaurant
Organic-focused restaurant on Loi Kroh Road, open daily noon to 23:30, with mid-range pricing.
Sawasdee you - Art and Street food
Artsy evening street food spot on Tha Phae Road serving fresh pad Thai, roti, and Thai classics from 6 PM daily.
𝙋𝘼𝙐𝙎𝙀 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝑯𝑰𝑳𝑳 Coffee and Rooftop bar
A hilltop coffee shop and rooftop bar in Chiang Mai, open evenings with sweeping views.
Madame Lee Fun Dining
A fine dining gem in Chiang Mai's old city blending Thai and Asian cuisine with inventive signature cocktails.
9 Siblings Restaurant
Authentic Thai restaurant on Samlan Road, open daily 8am–8pm, well-regarded by locals and visitors alike.
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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.