Best Restaurants & Food in Chiang Mai
122 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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𝙋𝘼𝙐𝙎𝙀 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝑯𝑰𝑳𝑳 Coffee and Rooftop bar
A hilltop coffee shop and rooftop bar in Chiang Mai, open evenings with sweeping views.
Mr. KAI Restaurant
Affordable local Thai food on Jhaban Road, open daily from 9am to 9pm near Chiang Mai's old city.
Alice's Restaurant
Organic-focused restaurant on Loi Kroh Road, open daily noon to 23:30, with mid-range pricing.
We-La-Dee Cafe & Restaurant
A hidden gem cafe-restaurant in San Sai with striking decor, wide-ranging menu, and consistently praised service.
Aquila
Intimate Italian dinner restaurant in Chiang Mai's Tha Sala area, beloved for its chef's tasting menu.
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.
Thai Food Good Taste - Chiang Mai
Authentic Thai restaurant on Rachadamnoen Road, open daily until 11:30 PM with great food and friendly service.
PARI-
Michelin-recognised evening dining spot in Chiang Mai's historic Phra Sing district, open nightly from 6 PM.
Paper Butter on the roof
A rooftop dinner spot on Ratchawong Road offering evening dining with an elevated ambiance in Chiang Mai.
Lookbua thai food Restaurant
Highly rated Old City Thai restaurant with an extensive menu of authentic dishes and a loyal local following.
Baan Mae Café & Restaurant
Superb Thai food served in the garden of a restored historic home, in Chiang Mai's Santitham area.
Maré Seafood
Elegant seafood and oyster bar on the Lamphun road, praised for phenomenally fresh oysters and a refined atmosphere.
Busarin
A Michelin-recognised family restaurant in Chiang Mai's Pa Tan neighbourhood serving traditional Northern Thai curries and home-style dishes.
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.
Grazie Thai Local Food - Wan Ton Noodle
A focused local noodle shop on Mun Mueang Road serving classic wan ton noodles at honest, budget-friendly prices.
YaYee Rooftop
A laid-back rooftop bar near Chiang Mai's Suthep area with mountain views, cocktails, and a relaxed sunset vibe.
It’s Good Kitchen
Authentic Thai kitchen near Wat Phra Singh, beloved by locals and travellers alike for honest flavours and 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.
Blackitch Artisan Kitchen
Artisan dinner restaurant in Chiang Mai's Nimmanhemin district, open evenings daily from 5 PM.
Street Food & Kalare Night Market
A lively open-air night market in Chiang Mai offering street food, live music, and local arts every evening.
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.
Tha Phae Grill
Rooftop Thai grill and bar on Rachadamnoen Road, open daily until midnight with city 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.