Best Restaurants & Food in Chiang Mai
120 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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The River Lofts
A riverside restaurant and bar on the Ping River with live music, outdoor seating, and daily hours until midnight.
ควันจุ๊งจุ๊ง Rooftop Bar & Bistro(ช้างคลาน)
A local rooftop bar and bistro in Chang Khlan offering affordable cocktails, BBQ, and sunset views.
Huen Muan Jai
Authentic Northern Thai cuisine served in a charming restored wooden villa with a garden setting.
Suki Changphuak
A beloved Chiang Mai street food spot serving suki hotpot and stir-fries every evening until midnight.
Oxygen Dining Room
Upscale riverside dining on Charoenraj Road, open daily for lunch and dinner in Chiang Mai's Wat Ket neighbourhood.
Food court
A bustling open-air food court in Pa Daet serving honest, home-style Thai dishes at budget prices.
Maadae Slow Fish Kitchen
Seafood-focused Thai kitchen on Tha Phae Road with a slow-food approach and bold, grounded flavours.
Moh-o-cha
Evening dinner spot near Chiang Mai's old airport road, open nightly from 5pm with mid-range pricing.
Lanna Square
A lively night market food court near Chiang Mai's Old City, known for diverse vegan and vegetarian options.
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.
Thajene Chomchan
A local Thai restaurant in Chang Phueak serving straightforward Thai cuisine at mid-range prices.
THE HOUSE by Ginger
Michelin Guide-recognised Thai restaurant in Chiang Mai's old city, open daily in a spacious compound.
sub seafood
A family-run seafood spot in Chiang Mai's old city, open daily from mid-afternoon for fresh Thai coastal dishes.
Chiang Mai Breakfast World
A popular breakfast and brunch spot in Chiang Mai's old city, serving Thai and international fare daily until 2:30pm.
Lerd Rote Tai Rom Ma-Feuang
Evening dinner spot on Wang Sing Kam Rd serving traditional Thai food at mid-range prices nightly 5–9 PM.
The Riverside Bar & Restaurant
A relaxed riverside bar and restaurant in central Chiang Mai, ideal for unwinding with food and drinks by the water.
Street Food @ One Nimman
A trendy street food court inside One Nimman mall on Nimmanahaeminda Road, with diverse stalls and stylish indoor-outdoor seating.
The Good View Bar & Restaurant
Riverside Thai restaurant and bar with nightly live music, open every evening until 1am.
Chan Talay Seafood
Coastal-style seafood restaurant on Thanon Mahidol, bringing fresh Thai seafood flavours to northern Chiang Mai.
Maya Kitchen
A clean, air-conditioned food court on level 4 of Maya Lifestyle Mall, offering affordable Thai food from multiple stalls.
Hard Rock Cafe Chiang Mai
Global rock brand meets Chiang Mai nights — live bands, American classics, and cold drinks on Loi Kroh Road.
Kiti Panit
Evening Northern Thai dining on Tha Phae Road, known for atmosphere, cocktails, and regional flavours.
Maepen Seafood, Rimping 1 Branch
Riverside seafood restaurant on Wang Sing Kam Road, open daily from noon until 11pm at mid-range prices.
NORI Sky Terrace
Family-run Japanese rooftop restaurant in Nimman serving sushi and gyoza with Suthep Mountain views.
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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.