ครัวไทย อาหารตามสั่ง (Thai kitchen)

Tucked behind Pai Police Station along a quiet road in the Wiangta subdistrict, this no-frills made-to-order kitchen serves genuinely authentic Thai home cooking at prices that regularly surprise visitors. Chicken dishes come in at around 40 baht, and fresh fruit shakes round out a menu built entirely around value and flavour rather than presentation or tourist appeal. The cook prepares everything fresh to order, so expect real ingredients and bold seasoning — the stir-fried basil in particular is noted as seriously spicy. The surroundings are simple and unfussy, with a calm, accessible atmosphere that sits apart from Pai's busier centre. Standout dishes from regular visitors include crispy pork fried rice, egg noodle with chicken, and pineapple and passion fruit shakes. An unexpected detail: a small chicken coop on the property houses an unusual breed of shaggy chickens that has caught more than one diner's attention. The place draws a loyal mix of budget travellers and Thai locals, which is generally a reliable indicator of honest, well-executed cooking. Good to know: The kitchen operates seven days a week from 10am to 8pm, making it a consistent option throughout the week. Arriving during late morning or mid-afternoon helps avoid the busier lunch and dinner rushes. As a small local establishment, cash payment is the expected norm, so come prepared. The location behind the police station is accessible but quietly situated, worth confirming on a map before heading over.