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Thai restaurants in Chiang Mai
All Chiang Mai restaurants

Best Thai restaurants in Chiang Mai

7 Thai tables worth the trip in Chiang Mai, Thailand — what they cost, what to order and how early to book.

Thai cooking balances sour, salt, sweet and heat in every dish. Ask for the kitchen's own level of spice rather than the tourist setting if you want it as intended.

In Chiang Mai the Thai list is led by Chom Cafe & Restaurant in Mae Hia (MICHELIN Selected, 800-1500 THB / 25-45 USD per person). If you want the same cooking for less, Khao Soi Mae Sai at 80-150 THB / 2-5 USD is the value pick.

  1. 1.

    Chom Cafe & Restaurant

    MICHELIN Selected

    Thai · Mae Hia · 800-1500 THB / 25-45 USD

    Famed for its enchanting, garden-like setting, Chom Cafe & Restaurant offers a magical dining experience amidst lush foliage and whimsical waterfalls. The menu features a broad selection of classic Thai dishes, expertly prepared with fresh ingredients. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a picturesque ambiance paired with comforting, authentic Thai flavours, making for memorable photo opportunities.

    Order: Gaeng Phet Ped Yang (Red Curry with Roasted Duck), Khao Pad Sapparot (Pineapple Fried Rice)

  2. 2.

    Ginger Farm Kitchen

    MICHELIN Selected

    Northern Thai · Mae Hia · 800-1800 THB / 25-50 USD

    Emphasizing farm-to-table dining, Ginger Farm Kitchen brings the bounty of its own organic farm directly to your plate. The menu champions authentic Northern Thai cuisine with a fresh, contemporary approach, using ingredients harvested just steps away. The rustic-chic ambiance, set amidst green fields, provides a relaxing and wholesome dining experience, connecting diners with the source of their food.

    Order: Khao Soi, Naem Phad Kai (Sour Pork Stir-fried with Egg)

  3. 3.

    Nasi Jumpru

    MICHELIN Selected

    Southern Thai · Chiang Mai Old City · 700-1500 THB / 20-45 USD

    Nasi Jumpru brings the vibrant and spicy flavours of Southern Thai cuisine to Chiang Mai. The restaurant offers a menu rich in aromatic curries, fresh seafood, and unique regional specialties not commonly found elsewhere in the north. Its casual, inviting atmosphere focuses on delivering authentic tastes, making it a culinary detour for those seeking a different regional Thai experience.

    Order: Gaeng Som (Sour Curry), Kua Kling (Dry Meat Curry)

  4. 4.

    Lae Khon Muang

    MICHELIN Bib Gourmand

    Northern Thai · Chiang Mai Old City · 300-600 THB / 10-18 USD

    A beloved local institution, Lae Khon Muang consistently earns its Bib Gourmand for serving impeccably authentic Northern Thai dishes at excellent value. The simple, unpretentious setting allows the robust flavours of the Lanna-style curries, grilled meats, and signature chilli dips to shine. It's an essential stop for an immersive and flavourful taste of Chiang Mai's culinary heritage.

    Order: Khao Soi, Gaeng Hung Lay (Burmese Pork Belly Curry), Sai Oua (Northern Thai Sausage)

  5. 5.

    Huen Muan Jai

    MICHELIN Bib Gourmand

    Northern Thai · Chiang Mai Old City · 300-700 THB / 10-20 USD

    Chef Thaninthorn Chantrawan (Iron Chef Thailand winner)

    Helmed by an 'Iron Chef Thailand' winner, Huen Muan Jai serves traditional Northern Thai cuisine with a refined touch. The restaurant offers a comfortable, homely atmosphere, often busy due to its popularity among locals and tourists alike. Dishes are prepared with care, showcasing the rich, complex flavours of Lanna cooking, making it a reliable choice for an authentic culinary journey.

    Order: Khao Soi, Gaeng Khanun (Jackfruit Curry), Nam Prik Ong (Pork & Tomato Chilli Dip)

  6. 6.

    Khao Soi Mae Sai

    MICHELIN Bib Gourmand

    Northern Thai · Suthep · 80-150 THB / 2-5 USD

    Widely regarded as one of Chiang Mai's finest, Khao Soi Mae Sai is an essential stop for this iconic Northern Thai noodle dish. The rich, creamy coconut curry broth, perfectly cooked egg noodles, and tender chicken or beef make for an unforgettable experience. It’s a humble, no-frills eatery where the focus is solely on delivering an exceptional rendition of its namesake.

    Order: Khao Soi Gai (Chicken Khao Soi), Khao Soi Nuea (Beef Khao Soi)

  7. 7.

    Paak Dang

    MICHELIN Selected

    Classic Thai · Wat Ket · 900-1800 THB / 25-50 USD

    Situated elegantly along the Ping River, Paak Dang offers a scenic dining experience with classic Thai dishes crafted from fresh, high-quality ingredients, including live seafood from their tanks. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet relaxed, perfect for enjoying sunset views and traditional flavours. It's a reliable choice for well-executed Thai cuisine in a beautiful riverside setting.

    Order: Steamed Sea Bass with Lemon and Chilli, Prawns in Tamarind Sauce

Booking a Thai table in Chiang Mai

  • · For MICHELIN Selected restaurants and popular fine-dining establishments, secure reservations 2-4 weeks in advance, especially for weekend evenings. Online booking through platforms like OpenTable or direct restaurant websites is often available and recommended.
  • · Many higher-end restaurants may require a credit card guarantee or a non-refundable deposit to confirm your booking, particularly for tasting menus or peak season dates. Always review the restaurant's specific policy during the reservation process.
  • · Consider dining during lunch hours at fine-dining venues; many offer more affordably priced set menus that provide an excellent introduction to their cuisine and experience. This can be a smart way to enjoy the ambiance and quality at a lower cost.
  • · Be mindful of cancellation and no-show policies. Late cancellations or not showing up can result in charges, especially for places that require deposits. Communicate any changes to your reservation as early as possible to avoid fees.

And the local dishes in Chiang Mai

Khao Soi

Chiang Mai's signature dish, Khao Soi is a rich, creamy coconut curry noodle soup with a hint of spice. It features both soft and crispy egg noodles, typically served with chicken or beef, and garnished with pickled mustard greens, shallots, and a squeeze of lime. Find excellent renditions at local eateries like Khao Soi Khun Yai.

Sai Oua

A delicious Northern Thai herb sausage, Sai Oua is characterized by its distinct blend of minced pork, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chili. It's grilled until fragrant and slightly charred, offering a flavorful and aromatic experience. You can find this spicy sausage at local markets such as Warorot Market or from street food vendors.

Gaeng Hung Lay

This rich, aromatic Burmese-style pork belly curry is a staple of Lanna cuisine. It’s slow-cooked with a complex blend of spices like ginger, tamarind, and peanuts, resulting in tender meat and a deeply flavorful, slightly sweet and sour sauce. Huen Phen is a popular spot to experience this traditional dish in an authentic setting.

Nam Prik Ong / Nam Prik Nume

These are two distinct but equally popular Northern Thai chili dips. Nam Prik Ong is a savory tomato-based pork chili paste, while Nam Prik Nume is a smoky, spicy green chili relish. Both are typically served with fresh and blanched vegetables, crispy pork crackling (khaep moo), and sticky rice, making a refreshing and flavorful appetizer or side.

Seven days in Chiang Mai

Pair these Thai tables with the full itinerary: neighbourhoods, museums and what to skip.

Read the Chiang Mai travel guide