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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Chiang Mai University Main Food Court
Affordable air-conditioned food court inside Chiang Mai University, popular with students and savvy travellers alike.
It’s Good Kitchen
Authentic Thai kitchen near Wat Phra Singh, beloved by locals and travellers alike for honest flavours and budget prices.
Food Market
A buzzing open-air food court in Chang Khlan serving authentic Thai dishes from multiple vendors at local prices.
Nimmanhaemin Road
Chiang Mai's trendiest street, packed with modern cafes, organic eateries, art galleries, and boutique shops.
294 Bistro Chiangmai
A relaxed all-day bistro in Chiang Mai's Old City, praised for its matcha, brunch plates, and attentive service.
Baan Buri Café & Restaurant
Art-infused café and restaurant on Chiang Mai's Old City Rachadamnoen Road, open daily 8am–9:30pm.
ร้านหม่าล่า88 麻辣烧烤 The Thai Street
Lively Sichuan-Thai grill and skewer spot on Ratchamanka Rd, open daily until 1am with local prices.
Kad Luang Airport Local Shop
Bustling airport-area food court offering northern Thai specialties and local snacks at budget-friendly prices.
Airniversary Chiang Mai
A multi-level treehouse restaurant with koi ponds, live music, and a lush garden in central Chiang Mai.
Tops Food Hall Central Chiangmai
Premium supermarket and food hall inside Central Chiangmai, stocking quality groceries, fresh produce, and ready-to-eat meals.
Paak Dang Riverside Restaurant
A social enterprise riverside restaurant blending Thai and Singaporean flavours beside the Ping River.
Baan Landai Fine Thai Cuisine
Michelin-recognised Northern Thai restaurant in Chiang Mai's Old City, open for dinner Tuesday to Sunday.
Good restaurants
Affordable local Thai restaurant in Chiang Mai's old city, known for huge portions and authentic flavours.
Central Chiangmai
Chiang Mai's largest modern mall, with two food halls, designer boutiques, and a grocery store along the superhighway.
Krua Dabb Lob
A busy local café on Rachadamnoen Road serving flavourful Thai food at genuinely low prices.
Chiang Mai Breakfast Restaurant (SANEHA) ร้านอาหารเช้า เชียงใหม่
A popular local breakfast spot in Chiang Mai's Old City area, open daily until 1pm.
Chef Den Seafood
A well-regarded seafood restaurant near Jingjai Market, known for curry crab, grilled prawns, and a welcoming owner.
Kad Kafé Restaurant at Shangri-La Chiang Mai
Hotel restaurant on Level 2 of the Shangri-La Chiang Mai, known for themed buffet nights and attentive service.
ควันจุ๊งจุ๊ง Rooftop Bar & Bistro(ช้างคลาน)
A local rooftop bar and bistro in Chang Khlan offering affordable cocktails, BBQ, and sunset views.
Food court
A bustling open-air food court in Pa Daet serving honest, home-style Thai dishes at budget prices.
Lanna Square
A lively night market food court near Chiang Mai's Old City, known for diverse vegan and vegetarian options.
Maadae Slow Fish Kitchen
Seafood-focused Thai kitchen on Tha Phae Road with a slow-food approach and bold, grounded flavours.
Late Night Street Foods And Noodles
A late-night strip of street food carts on Hussadhisawee Rd, open nightly until 4am with dishes from 50 THB.
Oxygen Dining Room
Upscale riverside dining on Charoenraj Road, open daily for lunch and dinner in Chiang Mai's Wat Ket neighbourhood.
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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.