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Khao Tom Jor Charoenchai

Rice soup done properly, cheap, and open from late afternoon till 11pm every night.

4.2(1,863)$$$$
Directions

Plan your visit

Hours
Daily 16:00–23:00
Price
$$$$
Budget

Learn the Spice Scale

Say 'mai pet' for no spice, 'pet nit noi' for a little spice, or 'pet mak' if you want it Thai-hot. Most cooks will default to a toned-down version for foreigners unless you specify otherwise.

Why go, and how to do it well

Khao tom is the whole point here, so come hungry for rice soup rather than a broad Thai menu. It's the kind of place that does one thing and keeps doing it, with your bowl built around the protein and accompaniments you pick. Budget prices, plain seating, no interest in impressing anyone with the decor.

One thing worth correcting, because it trips people up. This isn't a breakfast spot. Doors open at 16:00 and stay open until 23:00, seven days a week, which makes it a supper place. That's actually the more traditional way to eat khao tom in Thailand anyway, and it's the reason I'd put it on a list for late arrivals into Chiang Rai or anyone who's been out and wants something warm and cheap before bed rather than another beer.

It sits on Sanambin Road, a short ride from the middle of town, and it draws a steady local crowd rather than a tourist one. Don't expect much English.

Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Oct 2026

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Around here, on foot

Well-rated places within a short walk of Khao Tom Jor Charoenchai, nearest first. Minutes are at an easy pace in the heat.

Experience hints

Budget-friendly

400/11 Sanambin Rd, Tambon Wiang, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand

Open in Google Maps

More restaurants & food nearby

All within a 2-minute walk of Khao Tom Jor Charoenchai.

Tamachat Vegetarian Restaurant.

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J MARKET CHIANGRAI

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Tips for Visiting Restaurants & Food

Follow the Crowds

The busiest street stalls are almost always the best — high turnover means fresh ingredients and a recipe that locals vouch for. An empty restaurant at dinner time is a red flag.

Ice Is Safe

Factory-made tube or cylinder ice (used in virtually all restaurants and stalls) is made from purified water and is safe to consume. You don't need to skip the iced Thai tea.

Use Grab for Delivery

The Grab app works for food delivery across Thailand, letting you order from street stalls and restaurants alike. It's invaluable on rainy days or when you want to eat in your hotel.

Khao Tom Jor Charoenchai: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Khao Tom Jor Charoenchai worth visiting?

Khao Tom Jor Charoenchai holds a 4.2★ rating from 1,863 Google reviews — a strong rating for restaurants & food in Chiang Rai.

What are the opening hours of Khao Tom Jor Charoenchai?

Khao Tom Jor Charoenchai is typically open 16:00–23:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.

How expensive is Khao Tom Jor Charoenchai?

Khao Tom Jor Charoenchai is budget-friendly (฿) relative to other restaurants & food in Chiang Rai.

When is the best time to visit Khao Tom Jor Charoenchai?

The best months to visit Chiang Rai are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – February — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: Mid-February – April (smoke & heat).

Where is Khao Tom Jor Charoenchai located?

Khao Tom Jor Charoenchai is at 400/11 Sanambin Rd, Tambon Wiang, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand, in Chiang Rai. Getting around Chiang Rai: Grab (available in city center); Songthaews.

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