Best Restaurants & Food in Chiang Mai
87 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.
Thai Food Resto
Highly rated Thai restaurant near Chiang Mai's Old City, open daily for lunch and dinner.
The garden by lemongrass
A garden restaurant on Loi Kroh Road serving Thai cuisine nightly until 1 AM in a relaxed outdoor setting.
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.
Kung Yim Shop (2nd Branch)
A popular buffet restaurant on Ratchawong Road serving fresh seafood and Thai classics for 850 baht.
Alice's Restaurant
Organic-focused restaurant on Loi Kroh Road, open daily noon to late for flexible, quality dining.
Busarin
A Michelin-recognised family restaurant in Chiang Mai's Pa Tan neighbourhood serving traditional Northern Thai curries and home-style dishes.
North Sea Seafood
A well-regarded seafood restaurant in Chiang Mai's Tha Sala area, serving fresh catches at mid-range prices.
YaYee Rooftop
A laid-back rooftop bar near Chiang Mai's Suthep area with mountain views, cocktails, and a relaxed sunset vibe.
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.
Terrace Seafood Restaurant Chiang Mai
Seafood-focused restaurant on Changklan Road with a relaxed open-air terrace and consistent local following.
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.
Thaan Aoan
Budget-friendly Chiang Mai café serving fresh Thai food, brunch, and baked goods daily from 7am to 9pm.
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.
LINK Cuisine
Contemporary Thai dining on Arak Road, open daily with mid-range pricing and extended hours until 10:30pm.
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.
Baan Khun Nine Kitchen
A well-regarded neighborhood dinner spot in Chiang Mai's Si Phum district, open evenings daily.
Tha Phae Grill
Rooftop Thai grill and bar on Rachadamnoen Road, open daily until midnight with city views.
Chiang Mai University Main Food Court
Affordable air-conditioned food court inside Chiang Mai University, popular with students and savvy travellers alike.
Moose Rooftop Wine Bar
A rooftop wine bar atop Moose Hotel in Nimman, offering sunset views and cocktails from the 8th floor.
It’s Good Kitchen
Beloved budget Thai restaurant on Rachadamnoen Rd, drawing queues daily for its deeply authentic flavours.
Goodsouls Kitchen
Popular vegan and vegetarian restaurant in Chiang Mai's old city, open daily for breakfast through dinner.
Oh Talay
Seafood restaurant on the fourth floor of Maya Lifestyle Shopping Centre in Chiang Mai's Chang Phueak area.
Grazie Thai Local Food - Wan Ton Noodle
Beloved local noodle shop on Mun Mueang Rd serving authentic wan ton noodles at budget-friendly prices.
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.