Best Khao Soi in Chiang Mai: 15 Must-Try Restaurants 2024
Cat is Out of the Office contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information.
I have made it my personal mission to find the best khao soi in Chiang Mai – and I did!
Khao soi is a classic dish of northern Thailand and is particularly well-loved in the city of Chiang Mai.
I ate khao soi multiple times a week during my 3 months living in Chiang Mai, and it quickly became one of my favorite dishes! As a self-proclaimed foodie, I have no shortage of opinions about the best khao soi to be found in the city.
And the best part is that this famous northern Thai curry noodle soup usually costs less than $2 USD!
I’m so good at finding delicious food that when I travel with friends they ask me to be responsible for planning our meals. And happily, I oblige.
When I first started researching the best khao soi restaurants in Chiang Mai, I was SHOCKED to find one of the worst bowls of khao soi I’ve ever had at the top of several blog lists (I’m talking about Khao Soi Islam Noodles…don’t go there for khao soi).
Either the other bloggers didn’t actually eat much khao soi when they were in Chiang Mai, or the restaurant has changed their recipe.
Either way, I’m here to help fellow hungry travelers fill their bellies with only the best khao soi.
Whether you want a traditional meat khao soi or a vegetarian one, I’ve got you covered. You can count on me!
🤩 My favorite way to get to know a new city is by taking a food tour. This Northern Thai Food Tour will change your life. You’ll try hidden restaurants, street stalls, and local markets that most tourists never find and be transported in an iconic red rod daeng truck with a small group of hungry travelers. Come hungry because you’ll be trying more than 15 different dishes!
15 Best Khao Soi in Chiang Mai
1. Khao Soi Lung Prakit Kad Kom
Khao Soi Lung Prakit Kad Kom is a must-try khao soi restaurant for anyone visiting Chiang Mai. This restaurant has the most famous khao soi in Chiang Mai, and it’s been featured on a Netflix show — Somebody Feed Phil — for being the best khao soi in Chiang Mai.
When you take that first spoonful, you’ll be met with a broth that is incredibly flavorful, coconut-forward, and just a little bit spicy. I was in khao soi heaven from the first slurp.
The beef khao soi here is exceptional and heaped with generous portions of tender beef. Khao Soi Lung Prakit Kad Kom should be at the top of your list of places to visit when it comes to finding the best khao soi in Chiang Mai.
The location is perfect for walking around the Old City afterward.
Price: 60 baht
What to Order: Beef Khao Soi
Location: 53 Suriyawong 5 Rd, Tambon Hai Ya, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100
👩🍳 My pick for the best cooking class in Chiang Mai is Benny’s Home Cooking course with a small class size, robust menu, and a near-perfect 5-star rating!
2. Khao Soi Mueang Klaeng ข้าวซอยเมืองแกลง
Travelers looking for the best khao soi in Chiang Mai need to look no further than Khao Soi Mueang Klaeng, an unassuming eatery that’s beloved by locals. You know it’s good when there are more locals than farang!
It’s tucked away in a random alleyway, but if you know where to look, you’ll find this hole-in-the-wall restaurant nestled on a quiet street corner right outside Old City.
The flavor is very strong and unmistakable – creamy coconut with a hint of sweetness and just enough spice to tantalize your taste buds. The chicken of this khao soi gai (gai means chicken) literally falls off the bone! And they’re not stingy with the crispy noodle topping either.
In short, it’s delicious and unforgettable – give it a try!
Price: 50 baht
What to Order: Chicken Khao Soi
Location: QXXP+9J2, Chang Phuak Soi 2, Si Phum Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
3. Khao Soy Maesai ร้านข้าวซอยแม่สาย (ป้านะ)
Khao Soy Maesai is no longer one of Chiang Mai’s best-kept secrets – it’s where to eat khao soi in Chiang Mai! Those in the know flock to this bright and bustling noodle shop for a dish as unique as the city itself.
As soon as you walk in, check in with the host, and you’ll be handed a buzzer so that you can be alerted when your table is ready.
After you’re seated, write down your order on the provided paper slips and hand it to the waiter – don’t be shy if you need to flag them down!
The food here comes fast and hot – just as I like my khao soi in Chiang Mai, especially in the somewhat cooler wintertime! I added an ice-cold Thai iced tea to go with my soup, yum.
Although chicken khao soi is the most traditional, my recommendation is to try the pork khao soi here – it’s delicious!
Khao Soy Maesai is a great place to go if you want to taste authentic Northern Thai cuisine in a casual, engaging atmosphere just steps away from the trendy Nimman neighborhood.
Price: 50 baht
What to Order: Pork Khao Soi
Location: 29, 1 Ratchaphuek Alley, Tambon Chang Phueak, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300
🤩 My favorite way to get to know a new city is by taking a food tour. This Northern Thai Food Tour will change your life. You’ll try hidden restaurants, street stalls, and local markets that most tourists never find and be transported in an iconic red rod daeng truck with a small group of hungry travelers. Come hungry because you’ll be trying more than 15 different dishes!
4. Mr. Kai – Best Kao Soi
Mr. Kai’s Khao Soi is the perfect choice for travelers looking for the best khao soi in Chiang Mai.
Mr. Kai offers a version of the traditional northern Thai dish made with fresh, tender chicken that falls off the bone, piled high with crispy noodles on top, and a nice spicy kick. Vegetarians can also enjoy a delicious tofu khao soi!
Don’t forget about the delicious smoothie and juice options here as well! And if you’re feeling extra hungry, you can also try some other traditional northern Thai dishes on the menu.
Mr. Kai and his wife are incredibly friendly and speak English too, which will make your experience even more enjoyable. With a 5-star rating on Google, it’s no wonder why so many people have been raving about Mr. Kai’s Khao Soi!
Hop in a taxi and come by to experience one of Chiang Mai’s best culinary gems in a casual and engaging atmosphere.
Price: 60 baht
What to Order: Chicken Khao Soi & Fruit Smoothie
Location: 1, 10 Phra Pok Klao 13 Alley, Si Phum Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
🤩 My favorite way to get to know a new city is by taking a food tour. This Northern Thai Food Tour will change your life. You’ll try hidden restaurants, street stalls, and local markets that most tourists never find and be transported in an iconic red rod daeng truck with a small group of hungry travelers. Come hungry because you’ll be trying more than 15 different dishes!
5. Khao Soi Nimman
Khao Soi Nimman is a very popular khao soi restaurant located in the trendy Nimman neighborhood.
There’s usually a line when you arrive, but don’t despair – the wait goes fast! You’ll check in with the host and take a number when you arrive.
With outdoor seating, you can enjoy al fresco dining while the fans and misters keep you cool.
Khao Soi Nimman offers upscale khao soi compared to other restaurants – and more variety! Get a traditional chicken khao soi or go wild with a seafood version.
Along with your favorite khao soi dish, there are plenty of other menu items to choose from.
You’ll pay a little more for khao soi here, but it’s still extremely affordable.
Come and experience the high-end yet casual atmosphere that has made Khao Soi Nimman a local favorite!
Price: 90 baht
What to Order: Seafood, Sausage, or Chicken Khao Soi & Chicken Satay Appetizer
Location: 22 Nimmana Haeminda Rd Lane 7, Tambon Su Thep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
6. Khao Soi Khun Yai ร้านข้าวซอยคุณยาย
I’ve asked everyone I know in Chiang Mai where the best khao soi is and many of them will say Khao Soi Khun Yai!
Khao Soi Khun Yai is a classic for a reason, and will always be a very popular place in Chiang Mai to get some of the best khao soi.
Like many of the best restaurants here, you wouldn’t know that the restaurant is anything special just by looking at it – but your taste buds will know!
Located conveniently in the heart of the Old City near Wat Rajamonteam and close to the moat, this humble spot serves up home-cooked food in a casual setting.
Like most khao soi restaurants in Chiang Mai, it’s only open for a couple of hours midday for lunch. Come on by and experience some of Chiang Mai’s best khao soi!
Price: 50-60 baht
What to Order: Chicken Khao Soi
Location: QXWM+47J, Sri Poom 8 Alley, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
👉 My pick for the best Chiang Mai temple tour is this City Tour of Viewpoints, Wat Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Pha Lat with a near-perfect 5-Star Rating.
7. Khao Soi Arak
Khao Soi Arak is a hidden gem that not many travelers know about. But now you do!
When I parked my scooter, I wasn’t 100% sure that I was in the right place. This hole-in-the-wall restaurant is run out of the family’s garage in a quiet neighborhood, and offers the largest bowl of Khao Soi I have ever had!
Not only was it huge, but it was also the cheapest Khao Soi I’ve had yet.
The owner told me his favorite dish was the beef Khao Soi and he was right – it didn’t disappoint.
I love finding these kinds of places that many less-adventurous travelers would be too anxious to try. They’re missing out.
If you’re looking for a unique place to eat Khao Soi off the beaten path, then Khao Soi Arak is worth checking out!
Price: 40 baht
What to Order: Beef Khao Soi
Location: QXPJ+H8R, Arak 7 Alley, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
🤩 👩🍳 My pick for the best cooking class in Chiang Mai is this small-group class with killer recipes and a near-perfect 5 Star rating! The best part is that every recipe can be adapted to be vegan or vegetarian!
8. Khao Soi Mae Manee 2
Khao Soi Mae Manee 2 is a must-visit for khao soi lovers!
The coconut curry broth is nice and thick, and bursting with flavor and fresh herbs, just how I like it. The thick flat egg noodles are perfectly cooked, chewy, and not soggy.
This place really knows how to balance the flavors in a khao soi – that’s why it’s one of the best khao soi restaurants in Chiang Mai!
Very delicious, Khao Soi Mae Manee 2 is even recommended by the Michelin Guide despite the humble restaurant being anything but fancy! Although it is just slightly pricier than most other places on this list.
For a lunch that’s extra special, get a side of Northern-style sausages – you won’t be disappointed.
Price: 70 baht
What to Order: Beef Shank Khao Soi
👉 I took this 5-Star Doi Inthanon National Park, Waterfall & Royal Project day tour from Chiang Mai. See stunning views, visit the highest point in Thailand, and visit a local market. Sometimes, it’s nice to sit back in an air-conditioned vehicle and let a tour guide do all the work.
9. Khao-so-i (ข้าวโซอิ)
There’s often a wait at Khao-so-i restaurant due to its popularity, but it’s worth it!
The twist on traditional khao soi here is that they incorporate Japanese fusion into their dishes. The restaurant is also decorated in Japanese style, adding to the fun atmosphere.
Everything is made fresh in-house, including those delicious noodles that I just can’t get enough of. The dumplings and fried pork neck are other favorites that are definitely worth trying.
Although it’s slightly more expensive than other places around town, the fast service and English-speaking staff help make this experience one of a kind.
Don’t forget to check out the dry khao soi without the broth – very unique and delicious!
They have homemade soft serve for a sweet finish to your meal.
Price: 100+ baht
What to Order: Japanese-fusion Khao Soi, Dry Khao Soi, & Soft-serve Ice Cream
Location: ถนน เจริญราษฎร์ Wat Ket, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50000
10. Chez Khao Soi
Chez Khao Soi is considered by many of my friends as the best place for khao soi in Chiang Mai!
Located by the river, it offers great views and chill ambiance, perfect for travelers who prefer to eat off the beaten path, away from tourist hotspots.
The owner, who loves chatting with tourists, is very friendly and welcoming. You’ll feel right at home, while also getting to experience an authentic Thai restaurant!
With its casual setting and beautiful river views, Chez Khao Soi is sure to be one of your most memorable food experiences when traveling to Thailand.
Price: 50 baht
What to Order: Chicken Khao Soi
Location: RXCW+F46, Patanngam Rd, San Phi Suea, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300
👉 Check out this full-day Chiang Dao Kayaking, Caving, and Jungle Tour from Chiang Mai. You’ll get to kayak along the Mae Ping River, surrounded by a tranquil forest and a bamboo jungle, greeted by water buffalo and birds. After a local lunch, you’ll explore the Chiang Dao Cave System with headlamps and flashlights.
11. Khao Song Khao Soi
The flavors of the stewed beef khao soi and the pork khao soi at Khao Song Khao Soi restaurant in Chiang Mai are so unique and delicious, you’ll be wondering why you haven’t been here before.
It’s tucked away by the river, so it may take a little effort to find – but trust me, it’s worth it.
The atmosphere at Khao Song Khao Soi is great – there’s a charm to the place that you feel as soon as you walk in.
It’s just 15 minutes from the center of Chiang Mai – you’ll start drooling every time you remember it!
Price: 100 baht
What to Order: Stewed Beef or Pork Khao Soi, Dry Khao Soi
Location: 276 Pa Tan Alley, Tambon San Phi Suea, เมือง Chiang Mai 50300
Best Vegetarian Khao Soi in Chiang Mai
12. Free Bird Cafe
Free Bird Cafe is a must-visit for vegetarian travelers in the Nimman neighborhood of Chiang Mai.
This was the first vegan khao soi I tried, and let me tell you, it’s delicious! I ate a plant-based diet for years before I started traveling, so I appreciate good vegetarian food.
Not only are all profits from the cafe going to support local refugees from Myanmar, but they also boast an amazing thrift shop that also supports this great cause.
Plus, every Wednesday at noon they hold a Women’s Lunch where any woman can attend and enjoy a delicious vegan meal, while on Wednesday nights they host an open mic night for local performers.
All this in one great spot with a full vegan menu and casual yet engaging atmosphere.
Price: 110 baht
What to Order: Vegan Khao Soi
Location: 14 ถนนศิริมังมังคลาจารย์ Mueang Chiang Mai District, 50200
13. Aum Vegetarian Restaurant
Aum Vegetarian Restaurant is a must-try for vegetarian travelers to Chiang Mai.
The menu is full of vegan and vegetarian options that even non-veggies won’t want to miss out on.
The cozy restaurant has fans to keep you cool, making it a great place to relax and take in the laid-back ambiance.
Make sure to try their specialties, like the vegetarian khao soi – it’s one of the best khao sois in Chiang Mai!
You also won’t want to miss out on their massaman curry – it’s good too!
Price: 85 baht
What to Order: Vegan Khao Soi and Massaman Curry
Location: 1, 4 Suriyawong Alley, Haiya Sub-district, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50100
👩🍳 My pick for the best cooking class in Chiang Mai is Benny’s Home Cooking course with a small class size, robust menu, and a near-perfect 5-star rating!
14. May Kaidee x Morning Glory
May Kaidee x Morning Glory, located in Chiang Mai, is a hidden gem for vegetarian travelers on the hunt for something delicious.
Here you’ll find some of the best khao soi in Chiang Mai —made with fresh vegetarian ingredients—as well as a variety of other tasty dishes such as pumpkin hummus and more.
Not only can you satisfy your taste buds at this place, but they also offer cooking classes so you can learn how to make your favorite Thai dishes yourself too!
May Kaidee x Morning Glory is sure to become one of your favorites when traveling in Chiang Mai.
Price: 70 baht
What to Order: Vegetarian Khao Soi
Location: 29 4 Chang Moi Kao Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300
🤩 👩🍳 My pick for the best cooking class in Chiang Mai is this small-group class with killer recipes and a near-perfect 5 Star rating! The best part is that every recipe can be adapted to be vegan or vegetarian!
15. C Zaab
Chiang Mai is a great destination for vegetarians, and C Zaab is the place to go for some of the best vegetarian khao soi in Chiang Mai!
Located in the Old City, this restaurant offers delicious vegetarian khao soi that will make your mouth water. Keep in mind that this isn’t a vegetarian restaurant, but a regular Thai restaurant that offers some vegetarian options.
And don’t forget about their amazing spring rolls – they were my favorite during my visit!
C Zaab is a great place to refuel before continuing to explore all that Chiang Mai has to offer.
Price: 60 baht
What to Order: Khao Soi Lunch Set with Spring Rolls and Juice
Location: 117 5 Khang Ruan Jum Rd, พระสิงห์ Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
Pro tip: Sometimes there’s a wait to eat at the best khao soi restaurants in Chiang Mai, but if you’re solo (like me!) you can ask another solo diner if you can join them at their table and skip the line. I do that every time!
What is Khao Soi?
Khao soi is an amazing curry noodle soup that originated from Myanmar (Khao Swe in Burmese) but is now super popular in northern Thailand.
Let me tell you, it’s a flavor explosion! You’ve got this creamy coconut curry soup base with a little kick of spiciness, topped with crispy deep-fried noodles.
And don’t forget the pickles, raw onion, and lime on the side to really elevate the taste. I used to ignore the garnish plate, but now I dump it all in!
You can choose from different meat options like chicken (the most traditional), beef, pork, sausage, seafood, or even go vegetarian. And it’s typically eaten with chopsticks and a spoon.
The best khao soi in Chiang Mai has homemade noodles, usually made from rice flour batter, and cooked to perfection (watch out for overcooked noodles!).
The soup is typically served at lunchtime as many specialty restaurants offering this dish close for dinner.
It’s a must-try for all foodies out there who want to experience the local cuisine. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!
What Makes a Good Khao Soi?
Khao Soi is a beloved treat in Thailand and one of the dishes Chiang Mai is most known for (especially comforting during the rainy season).
All foodies must try it while in the city!
The best Khao Soi starts with a thick, rich and delicious curry broth made with coconut milk and flavorful herbs and spices that provide a complex depth of flavor.
To complement the broth, perfectly cooked noodles are essential – they should be tender but still have a slight bite to them.
What really brings all these flavors together is the delicate balance between the sweet and spicy notes that should make your mouth water.
Finally, don’t forget to include some tender meat – chicken is the most traditional, but a lot of shops offer their own specialty. I always ask them which one they recommend.
Eating khao soi in Chiang Mai is an unforgettable experience for food lovers that will make you appreciate the complexity of Thai cuisine even more!
How to Eat Khao Soi
Khao Soi isn’t one of those complicated-to-eat dishes that cause anxiety for travelers.
Your khao soi should always be served with garnishes – fragrant pickled mustard greens, lime wedges, and raw onions are usually served alongside the dish. It’s up to you if you want to include them!
I used to just squeeze the lime into the bowl and nothing else, but now I typically dump in the pickles and onion. I find they really add some pizazz to the already delicious soup!
Like most traditional Thai restaurants, you’ll find chopsticks and spoons in the cutlery contained on the table. Help yourself. I usually alternate between the chopsticks and the spoon, sometimes using one in each hand.
How Much Does Khao Soi in Chiang Mai Cost?
Most dishes will usually cost around 50-70 baht ($1.45 to $2 USD) – perfect for those looking for a great meal without breaking the bank!
For those hoping to stick to a budget, you can find khao soi for as little as 40 baht ($1.16 USD) in most local places.
At the other end of the spectrum, those planning on going all out can find very fancy versions for as much as 150 baht ($4.36 USD), but that’s not very common.
👉 My pick for the best hostel in Chiang Mai is Hostel Lullaby. I stayed here multiple times when I was backpacking Thailand. It’s a quiet hostel that attracts more mature backpackers and is in a great location with super comfortable beds with curtains and rooms with A/C. I made so many friends who I traveled with all over Northern Thailand at the complimentary breakfast.
Is Khao Soi Healthy?
With its creamy coconut milk-based soup and rich combination of spices, it’s no wonder why khao soi is such a popular dish! But is khao soi healthy for travelers who are trying to be mindful of what they eat?
The answer depends on what you consider “healthy” to mean.
As with most traditional Thai food, it’s a good idea to ask the restaurant if they added sugar or MSG to the dish if that’s something that could cause a problem for you.
Khao soi can be packed with protein from egg noodles, chicken, or beef. Some restaurants offer a vegetarian version of khao soi.
In addition to being protein-rich, this dish offers vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the variety of vegetables used in the creation. And if you add extra chilies, you get even more health benefits from their antioxidant properties.
Other Chiang Mai Foods to Try (Besides Khao Soi)
– Fried pork skin with sticky rice (khao niaw): This popular snack is served up by street vendors all around Chiang Mai and is a great way to try something local quickly and easily.
– Ka Nom Jeen Nam Ngiew: Rice noodles served in a savory soup that’s packed full of flavors like lime and tamarind – perfect for when you need something comforting after exploring the city.
– Sai Ua: A spicy sausage made from pork and herbs, it’s one of the most distinctive dishes you’ll find in Chiang Mai – and definitely worth trying!
– Laab Muu. A sour salad made from pork, shallots, lemongrass, chilies, fish sauce and more – this dish is bursting with flavor, so make sure to give it a go!
– Naam Phrik Ong: This is one of Thailand’s most iconic dishes – a sauce made from garlic, chilies, shrimp paste and other ingredients. It is usually served as an accompaniment to fish or barbecued meats. It has a unique flavor that is both spicy and savory.
– Miang Kham: The quintessential Isan snack. The flavors are bold and spicy, with just a hint of sweetness from the palm sugar. Miang Kham consists of small pieces of meat (traditionally pork) or fish wrapped in fresh herbs such as cha-om, kaffir lime leaves and/or wild pepper leaves. It’s often served with roasted peanuts.
– Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiao: A traditional Northern Thai dish that is made from fresh or fermented rice noodles. The noodles are mixed with various herbs and spices, including garlic, onion, green onion, tamarind paste, dried chili pepper flakes, and fish sauce.
– Kaeng Hang Lei (northern pork curry): Often made with pork shoulder, which is simmered in a coconut milk-based curry paste that includes galangal, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, turmeric, cumin, garlic, and shallots.
FAQs About the Best Khao Soi in Thailand
What is the most famous food in Chiang Mai?
Khao Soi is the most popular dish in Chiang Mai with its subtle blend of mild coconut milk and yellow curry spices. Sai Ua, a northern Thai sausage, is also popular. Lastly, Kaeng Hang-lay brings together pork belly stewed in spices until it’s so tender it melts away on your tongue.
Why is khao soi famous?
Khao soi is a famous Thai dish that is popular for its combination of flavors and textures. It consists of egg noodles, curry and coconut milk-based broth, served with pickled cabbage, raw onion, and lime wedges on the side. The most distinctive element of khao soi is the creamy broth and the crunchy toppings, which give it a delicious flavor.
What is the difference between Khao Suey and khao soi?
Khao Soi is a Thai dish that is quite similar to the Burmese Khao Suey but the main difference lies in the type of noodles used; Khao Soi uses wider, egg noodles that are usually topped with crunchy deep-fried noodles. Khao Soi has a slightly spicier flavour than its Burmese counterpart.
Do you eat khao soi with chopsticks?
Khao soi, a delicious northern Thai noodle soup, is usually served with both chopsticks and a spoon. There is no wrong way to eat khao soi!
Is khao soi Burmese or Thai?
Khao soi originated in Myanmar (also known as Burma), but it has been adapted to the flavors of Thailand. This famous dish can be found in many restaurants throughout both countries, making it a popular choice for travelers and locals alike!
What does khao soi mean in English?
The name khao soi literally means “cut rice” because the egg noodles are made by cutting steamed rice flour dough into strands.
This beloved comfort food is popular in northern Thailand, and is enjoyed all over the country as well as in other parts of Southeast Asia.
Is Khao Soi gluten free?
Khao Soi is a traditional Northern Thai dish that is not considered to be gluten free. While the dish may not contain wheat, barley, or other forms of gluten, it often contains fish sauce and oyster sauce which are known to have traces of gluten.
Is Khao Soi vegetarian?
Khao Soi is a Thai dish that is typically served with both meat and vegetable toppings. However, the dish can be made vegetarian by omitting the meat in the curry paste and replacing it with mushrooms or tofu. Vegan options of Khao Soi are becoming increasingly popular in many Thai restaurants.
Is Khao Soi Spicy?
Khao soi is a popular curry-based noodle dish from northern Thailand and Myanmar that can be either mild or spicy depending on the chef. While some may find it too spicy, others may find its level of spiciness just right. Khao Soi is usually not overly spicy but it does have a kick to it!
🤩 My favorite way to get to know a new city is by taking a food tour. This Northern Thai Food Tour will change your life. You’ll try hidden restaurants, street stalls, and local markets that most tourists never find and be transported in an iconic red rod daeng truck with a small group of hungry travelers. Come hungry because you’ll be trying more than 15 different dishes!
Final Thoughts: Best Chiang Mai Khao Soi
Whether you’re a fan of the spicy curry soup or just an adventurous eater looking to try something new, Chiang Mai’s khao soi is something every traveler to northern Thailand should try at least once!
Most people who try khao soi fall in love with it like I have.
My personal favorite place to eat this flavorful soup is at Khao Soi Lung Prakit Kad Kom, but I’ve enjoyed every bowl of khao soi mentioned on this list, so try a few and decide which one is your favorite! Then shoot me a message on Instagram @catisoutoftheoffice2 and tell me which one you loved most.
My favorite way to explore the city is with your taste buds as your guide. Join a food tour or sign up for a cooking class to get even more out of your trip – it will be an experience you won’t forget!
👉 My top pick for a hotel in Chiang Mai is POR Thapae Gate because it’s in the perfect location and has a great breakfast! The staff here is amazing, and you’ll love having a relaxing place to come home to after a full day of exploring.
Read More About Chiang Mai:
9 Best Doi Suthep Tours in Chiang Mai 2023
16 Best Hotels with Rooftop Pools in Chiang Mai (2023)
Is Chiang Mai Worth Visiting? + 19 Pros and Cons
Renting a Scooter in Chiang Mai: Ultimate Guide 2023
📝 Thailand Travel Planning Guide 🇹🇭🌟
Before you embark on your unforgettable journey to Thailand here are the essential tips every traveler should know:
🚑 Should I buy travel insurance for Thailand?
✅ 100% YES! — My #1 Safety Tip for all travelers is to buy travel insurance for every trip in case anything happens on their visit. I recommend and use SafetyWing – it’s cheap and comprehensive.
💧Can you drink the water in Thailand?
🚱 No — It’s recommended to drink filtered or bottled water in Thailand (but using tap water to brush your teeth is usually fine). I recommend this reusable water bottle! It works great, turning tap water into safe-to-drink water that tastes good.
🚙💨 Is it safe to rent a car in Thailand?
Yes — Renting a car in Thailand is one of the best ways to see the countryside! I recommend Discover Cars, which checks both international companies and local companies, so you get the best rates.
🏩 What’s the best way to book my Thailand accommodations?
My go-to for Thailand hotels is Booking.com. For hostels, I use HostelWorld. Or get free accommodations with Trusted Housesitters!
✈️ What’s the best site to book Thailand flights?
For finding cheap Thailand flights, I recommend CheapOAir.
🎫 Do I need a visa for Thailand?
🙅🏻♀️ Likely Not — US, UK, and EU passport holders don’t need visas for stays of up to 30 days in Thailand.
💰 𝗖𝘂𝗿𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆: The currency here is the Thai baht, and there are plenty of ATMs if you need cash. I always withdraw from ATMs to get the best rates (select “no” when it asks you if you accept the conversion rate).
🚕 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Getting around Thailand is a breeze! Grab is safe and cheap in major cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Bangkok has a modern metro. It’s easy to use local transport such as songthaews, too.
📶 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆: Thailand has reliable internet connectivity. SIM cards are easy to find and cheap.