The Cave Restaurant & Cellar
Tucked in the Mae Chan area of Chiang Rai province, this restaurant has earned a reputation as one of the standout fusion dining destinations in the region, drawing both locals and visitors making their way toward Doi Mae Salong. The setting is a genuine draw in itself: open views stretch across rice fields and mountain scenery, birdsong is audible throughout, and the rustic cave and cellar aesthetic gives the space a character that sets it apart from typical northern Thai eateries. The menu takes an eclectic approach, spanning Thai, Thai-Italian, Mexican and European dishes. While the selection is not extensive, visitors consistently note the quality of the food and drinks, and the friendly atmosphere is enhanced by the presence of resident cats roaming the grounds. Dishes arrive presented in a rustic style that suits the overall ambience. One reviewer notes the restrooms are a surprisingly pleasant detail worth mentioning. On the practical side, pricing leans slightly higher than casual roadside alternatives in the area, so it is worth bearing this in mind when budgeting. No website or confirmed opening hours are currently listed, so contacting the restaurant directly before visiting is advisable, particularly for groups or those combining it with a day trip along the Doi Mae Salong route. Allow extra travel time from central Chiang Rai city, as the Mae Chan location sits in a quieter, more rural part of the province.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After The Cave Restaurant & Cellar, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
Good food, great view and very friendly cats. The cave offers a varity of menu fusion Thai, Thai - Italian, Maxican and European. The menu is not extensive but all the foods we had were good and reasonable priced. The service is also good. What set it apart is the view and cozy vibe. The cats are stray but very friendly and owners do took care of their well heing and vaccination. Note : if you want to eat steak it is best to call and order ahead or else you will have to wait up to 60 mins. Our steak came medium rare and it was good.
This is one of my favourite cafes in Chiang Rai area. The views are relaxing, looking out onto rice fields and beautiful mountains. You can hear bird song everywhere. The cafe is peacefully located with chairs spread out generously so you can have space to yourself. There is also a small campground according to the name that I have not tried. The food and drink selection is excellent. And the staff are also very attentive. Definitely worth a visit if you want a feeling of getting away while enjoying a coffee and some excellent food.
Regarded as one of the best if not the best fusion restaurant in this area, one must attempt to have a meal here. Popular with both locals and tourists, this restaurants serves the finest dishes with the best ingredients and absolute masterclass in presentation. However, the price you pay for it reflects its standard. To top it up, it had wonderful balcony and a view of a hill and large padi fields. Excellent for instagram and photo takings! A must to try!
Tips for Visiting Restaurants & Food
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.
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.
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Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – September
Avg. temperature
14°C – 35°C(57°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Mae Fah Luang Airport (CEI) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). Bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. Scenic Golden Triangle road trip from Chiang Mai.
Getting around
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Songthaews
- •Motorbike rental (฿200/day)
- •Car hire (for Golden Triangle & hill tribes)