Best Restaurants & Food in Chiang Mai
113 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.
Alice's Restaurant
Organic-focused restaurant on Loi Kroh Road, open daily noon to late for flexible, quality dining.
The garden by lemongrass
A garden restaurant on Loi Kroh Road serving Thai cuisine nightly until 1 AM in a relaxed outdoor setting.
Neighborhood Community
A lively food court complex on Chang Moi Road with multiple restaurants, bars, and chilling vibes.
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.
Riverfront Restaurant Chiang Mai
Riverside dining in Chiang Mai's relaxed Wat Ket district, serving Thai cuisine with waterfront views.
Reform Kafé - Vegan Garden Restaurant
Cozy vegan kitchen serving curries, salads & sandwiches in relaxed digs with a lush garden.
𝙋𝘼𝙐𝙎𝙀 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝑯𝑰𝑳𝑳 Coffee and Rooftop bar
A hilltop coffee shop and rooftop bar in Chiang Mai, open evenings with sweeping views.
YaYee Rooftop
A laid-back rooftop bar near Chiang Mai's Suthep area with mountain views, cocktails, and a relaxed sunset vibe.
Tha Phae Grill
Rooftop Thai grill and bar on Rachadamnoen Road, open daily until midnight with city views.
LINK Cuisine
Contemporary Thai dining on Arak Road, open daily with mid-range pricing and extended hours until 10:30pm.
Thaan Aoan
Budget-friendly Chiang Mai café serving fresh Thai food, brunch, and baked goods daily from 7am to 9pm.
ARISE Rooftop Bar - Nimman
Rooftop cocktail bar above Amanor Hotel in Nimman, with a glass-sided pool and city views.
It’s Good Kitchen
Beloved budget Thai restaurant on Rachadamnoen Rd, drawing queues daily for its deeply authentic flavours.
Copacabana Rooftop diner
Rooftop sunset bar on Tha Phae Road with bohemian vibes, live DJ sets, and views of Tha Phae Gate.
Cat Graffiti Thai food and fried chicken stall
A beloved local street food stall in Chiang Mai serving fried chicken, rice, and assorted dishes at budget prices.
Gord Chiangmai Kitchen ครัวกอดเชียงใหม่ - Breakfast, Brunch & Lunch in the garden
A garden café near Chiang Mai's old city serving breakfast, brunch, and lunch daily until 3:30pm.
Best Khao Soi Chang mai
A beloved evening street food stall in Chiang Mai's old city, serving exceptional khao soi and northern Thai classics.
Street Food & Kalare Night Market
A lively open-air night market in Chiang Mai offering street food, live music, and local arts every evening.
Blackitch Artisan Kitchen
Artisan dinner restaurant in Chiang Mai's Nimmanhemin district, open evenings daily from 5 PM.
Baan Khun Nine Kitchen
A well-regarded neighborhood dinner spot in Chiang Mai's Si Phum district, open evenings daily.
Goodsouls Kitchen
Popular vegan and vegetarian restaurant in Chiang Mai's old city, open daily for breakfast through dinner.
Grazie Thai Local Food - Wan Ton Noodle
Beloved local noodle shop on Mun Mueang Rd serving authentic wan ton noodles at budget-friendly prices.
Terrace Seafood Restaurant Chiang Mai
Seafood-focused restaurant on Changklan Road with a relaxed open-air terrace and consistent local following.
Chiang Mai University Main Food Court
Affordable air-conditioned food court inside Chiang Mai University, popular with students and savvy travellers alike.
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.