17 Best Foods in Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai Food Guide 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.

If there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s where to find the best food in Chiang Mai.

As a self-proclaimed foodie and seasoned globetrotter, my journey has taken me from hole-in-the-wall eateries to fancy five-star restaurants across continents. But there’s something about Chiang Mai – its authenticity and unique fusion of diverse cuisines – that resonates with me like nowhere else (that’s why I’ve made the city my part-time home).

Chiang Mai is famous for its mouthwatering Northern Thai cuisine, influenced by Burmese, Chinese, and Laotian flavors. Renowned for its bold tastes, aromatic herbs, and unique combination of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors.

Some places may have a legendary reputation but don’t always live up to the hype (yes, Cowboy Hat Lady, I’m talking about you). That’s why you can count on me to steer you away from tourist traps and towards those genuine flavors – those hidden spots that only the locals know about.

I’ve made it my mission to uncover hidden gems in these winding alleys brimming with culinary treasures.

Whether it’s the creamy richness of khao soi that makes your heart skip a beat or the flavor of sukiyaki that sets your taste buds on fire – trust me, I’ve been there, tasted that, and I’m here to spill all the delicious details!

👉 My favorite way to get to know a new city is via a Food Tour! This small group Northern Food Tour by Songthaew Truck has a near-perfect 5-star rating. Thai food is more than just pad Thai or sticky rice – you won’t find any of that on this tour. Trying unfamiliar foods can feel intimidating – where do you even start? But this tour is a fun way to try at least 15 different Thai foods. Come hungry because you’ll learn all about Chiang Mai via your taste buds!

What to Eat in Chiang Mai

Below, I will share my top recommendations for where to eat in Chiang Mai, but first, here’s a handy checklist of Chiang Mai traditional food.

1. Khao Soi: This Northern Thai curry noodle soup is a must-try, with its rich coconut-based broth, soft-boiled noodles, and crispy fried noodles on top. I’ve tried nearly every bowl of Khao Soi in town – here are my favorites.

2. Sai Ua (Chiang Mai Sausage): This spicy sausage is filled with a mix of pork, herbs, spices, and red curry paste – a true local favorite. You’ll spot these coils of meat hanging up at street food stalls or served in restaurants with a side of sticky rice.

3. Khan Toke: This traditional Lanna-style meal is served on a low table with various dishes of Northern Thai food, perfect for sharing with friends or family.

4. Gaeng Hang Lay: A Burmese-influenced stew with tender pork belly and aromatic spices that’s truly unique to Chiang Mai.

5. Nam Prik Noom: This green chili dip packs a punch! Served with sticky rice or fresh veggies, it’s the perfect midday snack.

6. Nam Prik Ong: Another popular chili dip is made with ground pork and tomatoes. Dip in some fresh cucumber or cabbage for a refreshing bite.

7. Pad Thai Shrimp: While Pad Thai is common throughout Thailand, the version in Chiang Mai often comes topped with succulent local shrimp.

8. Khao Kha Moo: Slow-cooked pork leg served over rice and topped with boiled egg. This dish is a hearty meal that’s popular among locals.

9. Gaeng Hang Lay: This Burmese-influenced sweet yellow curry is a must-try in Chiang Mai. It’s a unique and delicious dish with tender pork belly and aromatic spices.

10. Larb Kua: A spicy and tangy salad made with minced meat (usually pork or chicken), herbs, and spices. It’s a great option for those looking for a lighter and healthier meal.

11. Kanom Jeen Nam Hgeow: This dish features rice noodles in a rich and flavorful coconut curry sauce, topped with your choice of meat or vegetables. It’s a popular breakfast option in Chiang Mai.

12. Miang Kham: A traditional snack made with betel leaf, roasted peanuts, dried shrimp, and various herbs and spices. It’s a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors.

13. Tea Leaf Salad: Another dish influenced by neighboring Myanmar, this salad combines fermented tea leaves with crunchy nuts and seeds for a unique and flavorful experience.

14. Som Tum: This famous green papaya salad is a staple in Chiang Mai cuisine. The combination of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors makes it a refreshing and addictive dish.

15. Durian: Known as the “king of fruits” in Southeast Asia, durian is a polarizing fruit with a creamy texture and pungent smell. It’s definitely an acquired taste but worth trying for its unique flavor. Head to Mueang Mai Market to find all sorts of tropical fruits to try!

16. Sugarcane Juice: This refreshing drink is made by pressing sugarcane to extract its sweet juice. It’s often mixed with lime or lemon for a tart and zesty kick.

17. Tom Yum: A spicy and sour soup that packs a punch of flavor, Tom Yum is a popular dish in Thailand. Made with lemongrass, galangal, chili peppers, and other herbs and spices, it’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a cold day.

Best Khao Soi in Chiang Mai

If you visit Chiang Mai without indulging in a bowl of Khao Soi, you haven’t really experienced Chiang Mai – it’s much like visiting Paris without a taste of its legendary croissant or New York without a bite of its iconic pizza.

This northern Thai specialty is a beautiful mixture of flavors, combining soft, flat noodles immersed in a rich, creamy coconut curry broth, topped with crispy noodles, and served alongside pickled mustard greens and lime for that extra zing. It is a perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and savory notes that will leave you craving more. 

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of what this city’s cuisine has to offer, khao soi is the best local food in Chiang Mai!

Khao Soi Lung Prakit Kad Kom

Khao Soi Lung Prakit Kad Kom is a not-so-secret gem, just a 12-minute walk outside the South Gate of the Old City. 

After devouring dozens of bowls of khao soi in Chiang Mai (it’s tough work, but someone has to do it), I can confidently say that this is one damn good one (excuse my Thai). It was the perfect lunch to eat during the rainy season.

This Chiang Mai dish perfectly balances coconut and spice, making every bite a flavorful adventure. Here, you’ll find that the khao soi has a strong, distinctive flavor – the result of fresh ingredients and time-tested recipes. 

It comes as no surprise that ‘Somebody Feed Phil’ chose to feature this spot on their show. 

Be prepared for a bit of a wait, as word about this place has spread, resulting in often lengthy lines for tables, especially during peak season. But trust me, it’s worth it! And the wait usually goes fast. 

Traditional khao soi is served with chicken, but I’m a big fan of their beef khao soi.

Address: 53 Suriyawong 5 Rd, Tambon Hai Ya, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100

What to Order: Beef Khao Soi

Cost: 60 baht ($1.70 USD)

🤩 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!

Khao Soi Mueang Klaeng

Don’t be fooled by its unassuming location, hidden down a quiet alleyway; Khao Soi Mueang Klaeng serves some of the most flavorful khao soi you’ll ever taste. 

The chicken version, Khao Soi Gai, is especially delicious with its tender meat that effortlessly falls off the bone, swimming in a rich, aromatic curry broth. A generous pile of crispy noodles crowns the dish, adding an irresistible crunch to every bite. 

It’s no wonder locals love this spot! While it may not have clinched the top spot in my personal list of Chiang Mai’s best Khao Soi dishes, it comes incredibly close and undoubtedly ranks among the best foods to eat in Chiang Mai.

Address: QXXP+9J2, Chang Phuak Soi 2, Si Phum Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200

What to Order: Chicken Khao Soi

Cost: 50 baht ($1.43 USD)

Khao Soy Maesai

Located just outside my Nimman neighborhood and a quick Grab ride from the Old City, this gem of a restaurant is renowned for serving one of Chiang Mai’s best khao soi dishes. So much so that it consistently features on every list of best foods in Chiang Mai – and believe me, it’s not just empty hype. 

This place is popular, so you’ll be handed a buzzer while you eagerly await your turn at the table. But don’t let the queue daunt you; tables turn over fast here as patrons slurp up their meals with gusto. 

Once seated, jot down your order on the slip provided – sometimes you might need to flag down a waiter, so don’t be shy. 

While chicken khao soi is traditional and absolutely mouth-watering, their pork version is my go-to. 

To wash it all down, make sure to try their refreshing Thai iced tea. 

Address: 29, 1 Ratchaphuek Alley, Tambon Chang Phueak, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300

What to Order: Pork Khao Soi

Cost: 50 baht ($1.43 USD)

I’ve only listed the top 3 best Khao Soi spots here, but Chiang Mai is teeming with several other incredible joints. Try them all, and don’t forget to let me know which one ends up being your favorite!

✅ Planning a trip to Chiang Mai? This detailed 3-Day Chiang Mai Itinerary has you covered with everything you need!

Best Chiang Mai Street Food Stalls

Thailand is all about street food, and there’s no shortage of cheap eats in Chiang Mai, especially when it comes to street food. Here are the top recommended stalls to try for authentic and delicious bites.

Changphuak Suki (aka Suki Koka)

One of the best food stalls in Chiang Mai is undoubtedly Changphuak Suki, also known as Suki Koka. 

Located in the small but vibrant Chang Phueak Night Market, just a stone’s throw from the Old City, this thriving hub of deliciousness is where I eat dinner several times weekly. 

The reputation of Changphuak Suki precedes it, as a queue begins to form around 6 pm. However, don’t be deterred by the crowd; take a number and use the wait time to explore the rest of the market – you won’t have to wait more than 20 minutes for a table. 

When your number is called, their tourist-friendly picture menu makes ordering a breeze: order at the register and prepare to feast at your assigned table. 

They offer two types of dishes: dry stir fry or soup and your choice of protein. Feel free to add extra noodles or cabbage if you’re hungry. 

I always order the same thing: dry pork with extra noodles. Their magic sauce solidifies this sukiyaki as some of the best food in Chiang Mai – so don’t be shy and pour it on generously! 

Address: นพรัตน์, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200

What to Order: Dry Noodles with Pork

Cost: 55 baht ($1.57 USD)

Neng Earthen Jar Roast Pork

A way from the tourist neighborhoods and across the street from a Mercedes Benz dealership, this unassuming eatery attracts a mix of locals and tourists. 

It’s renowned for its namesake dish – pork roasted in giant earthen jars. The result? An impeccably crispy skin enveloping tender, succulent pork that melts in your mouth. 

It also offers a delectable chicken dish that rivals its pork counterpart in flavor. Order their sticky rice on the side to complement these proteins – it’s the perfect vehicle to soak up all those flavorful juices. 

And for those who enjoy a bit of spice, their papaya salad is not to be missed; it packs a punch! Despite getting busy at times, plenty of seating is available, ensuring you won’t wait long before diving into some of the best food Chiang Mai has to offer at Neng Earthen Jar Roast Pork.

Address: 50300 Chang Wat Chiang Mai, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai, Muang Samut Rd

What to Order: Roasted Pork

Cost: 70 baht ($2 USD)

👩‍🍳 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!

Chang Phueak Khao Kha Moo Pork Leg Rice (Cowboy Hat Lady)

Don’t miss out on experiencing Chang Phueak Khao Kha Moo Pork Leg Rice, affectionately known as the Cowboy Hat Lady. 

This stall, serving slow-braised pork over rice with a side of pickled mustard greens and an egg, has become a veritable landmark in Chiang Mai’s culinary scene, with its fame skyrocketing after being featured by Anthony Bourdain (pour one out for Tony). 

It’s in the same market as the popular Changphuak Suki, an easy addition to your Phuak Gate Market foodie adventure. 

While I personally found it a touch overrated and felt the pork lacked that punch of flavor I had anticipated, it was undeniably tender – living up to its reputation in that respect. 

The original Cowboy Hat Lady herself no longer graces the stall (at least never when I’m there), but don’t let that deter you! 

Opinions vary wildly, and many of my friends swear by this place, so give it a shot – it might just tickle your taste buds in all the right places.

Address: ประตูเมือง Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200

What to Order: Pork Leg and an Egg with Rice

Cost: 60 baht ($1.70 USD)

👉 My pick for the best 5-star food tour that includes a tour of Warorot Market is this Half Day Small Group Tour with Local Foodies.

Suang Bualoy Chang Phuak (Dessert)

For a blissful journey into the heart of Thai desserts, Suang Bualoy is a must-try Chiang Mai food. This classic treat, meaning “floating lotus,” is a staple at Chang Phuak Gate Night Market (the same market as Changphuak Suki and The Cowboy Hat Lady). 

Each bite of these perfectly cooked glutinous rice balls reveals a soft and non-sticky texture that melts harmoniously into the creamy coconut milk base, offering just the right level of sweetness (don’t tell your dentist).

The joy doesn’t stop there – you also get to customize your Bua Loy with an array of toppings; one comes included, while additional ones are available for a small extra charge. 

And if you happen to be in the Warorot Market area, don’t miss out on another renowned Bua Loy stall that’s been serving this traditional dessert for over half a century! 

Address: 242, ลานตลาดโต้รุ่งช้างเผือก 6 Manee Nopparat Rd, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

What to Order: Add any toppings that look interesting, like the sweet egg (10 baht)

Cost: 25 baht ($0.71 USD) plus toppings 

Sai Oua (Northern Thai Herb Sausage)

This beloved local delicacy, pronounced as “sigh-ooh-ah,” is widely hailed as one of the world’s finest sausages and can be easily spotted in nearly every market of Chiang Mai, with its distinctive coils sizzling invitingly on grills. 

The alluring scent of lemongrass, chilies, and meat wafting from these stalls is hard to resist and promises a delicious experience. 

Some vendors serve a fattier version of this sausage than others, adding another layer of complexity to its flavor profile. 

If you want to enjoy Sai Oua like a true local, head over to Ton Phayom Market across from Chiang Mai University – a non-touristy locale rich in authenticity where you can find several reputable stalls such as Sai Oua La Wan. 

Warorot market also has some good sai oua stalls. You can also find these at restaurants in Chiang Rai if you’re heading there!

Locals pair it with fresh sticky rice and a plastic baggie of Nam Prik Noom (green chili paste) for that quintessential Northern Thai meal experience.

Address: Any Local Morning or Night Market

Cost: 25 baht ($0.71 USD) 

🤩 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!

Pad Thai Por Kong

When you think of Thailand, one of the first Thai foods you think about is probably pad thai. Chiang Mai is well-known for pad thai, made with locally caught shrimp.

This unassuming family-run gem is tucked away in the parking lot outside their home. Known for their generous portions, you’ll be pleasantly full when you leave. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out your traditional noodles for wontons – it’s an unconventional twist that adds an exciting dimension to the dish. 

They shut shop early, so make sure to get there before 8 pm.

Address: 205 Ratchamanka Rd, Tambon Phra Sing, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

What to Order: Pad Thai with Shrimp and Egg

Cost: 80 baht ($2.28 USD)

Northern Thai Cuisine

When visiting the ‘Rose of the North,’ Chiang Mai, experiencing the local cuisine is a must. 

Northern Thai Cuisine

Located in the heart of the vibrant Nimman neighborhood, this aptly named restaurant offers an authentic taste of the region’s rich gastronomy. 

Unpretentious and brimming with local flavor, it stands out for its large portions and speedy service, making it a favorite among visitors. 

The menu is large, so it’s best to order an assortment and share (this is one of the hard parts of traveling solo!). Some of the most popular dishes include baked fish wrapped in banana leaf, aromatic pork ginger curry, tangy tamarind salad, stir-fried beef and chicken, succulent grilled pork belly, and the fiery tom yum mushroom soup. 

Be warned, though – many of these dishes pack a spicy punch! If you can’t handle spicy, this place isn’t for you.

Address: Nimmana Haeminda Rd Lane 13, Tambon Su Thep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

What to Order: Tamarind salad, grilled pork belly, baked fish wrapped in banana leaf

Cost: 150 baht ($4.29 USD)

Best Burmese Food in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai’s food scene is heavily influenced by its neighboring country, Myanmar (formerly known as Burma). Some of the best food in Chiang Mai is Burmese food!

Cherry Burmese

Travelers with a penchant for good food, make sure to add Cherry Burmese to your must-visit list in Chiang Mai. 

The tea leaf salad is worth the visit alone – fresh, delectable, and bursting with flavor. But the gastronomic adventure doesn’t stop there. From onion tempura that packs a satisfying crunch to the pickled mango that delivers a delightful tang, every dish is an experience in itself. 

The prawn oil curry and fried pork ribs are particularly recommended, offering unique flavors that will leave you craving more. The whole wheat roti and red kidney beans and potatoes present an equally delicious option. 

Despite the high-quality food, Cherry Burmese remains surprisingly affordable, making it an ideal spot for shared meals amongst friends or fellow travelers. 

Address: 121 Ragang Rd, Tambon Chang Khlan, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand

What to Order: Tea Leaf Salad, Prawn Oil Curry, Fried Pork Ribs, Roti with Red Kidney Beans and Potatoes

Cost: 120 baht ($3.43 USD)

Best Roast Chicken in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai has so many great roast chicken restaurants that it deserves its own category. I didn’t used to like eating chicken before living in Chiang Mai!

Roast Chicken Wichienbury

If you find yourself in Chiang Mai craving some of the best roast chicken, look no further than Roast Chicken Wichienbury. 

This gem is only a few minutes walk from my apartment in Nimman, so I eat lunch here more often than I feel comfortable admitting. 

While less famous than SP Chicken in the Old City, Wichienbury outshines it with exceptional quality and unbeatable prices. Both places are delicious, but Wichienbury is the best, in my humble opinion. 

I debated leaving it off the list so that it doesn’t get overrun with tourists, but I want you to eat great food in Chiang Mai!

The delicious sweet and sour sauce served on the side adds an extra dimension to the flavorsome roast chicken. When I’m hungry, I can easily eat a half-chicken with sticky rice and a papaya salad all to myself. 

Like most chicken joins in Chiang Mai, they’re only open at lunch.

Address: QXWC+P45, Nimmana Haeminda Rd Lane 11, Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200

What to Order: Chicken and sticky rice

Cost: 100 baht ($2.85 USD)

Cherng Doi Roast Chicken

Located in the heart of Nimman, Cherng Doi is one of the few roast chicken restaurants with a broad menu and is open for both lunch and dinner. 

Be prepared for a slight wait as the place tends to fill up after 7 pm, but don’t let that deter you – the average wait time is only about 15 minutes. 

Order their divine roast chicken (item #1 on the menu), priced at just 95 baht ($2.71 USD). The star quality lies not just in the meat itself, which is crispy and flavorful on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside, but also in its mouth-watering sauce. 

Complement your meal with their popular papaya pancake (item #24) at 75 baht ($2.14 USD), or opt for a spicy corn salad. 

Address: 2, 8 Suk Kasame Rd, Tambon Su Thep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

What to Order: Roast chicken, corn salad, papaya pancake

Cost: 200 baht ($5.69 USD)

👉 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.

SP Chicken

If you find yourself wandering the streets of Chiang Mai’s Old Town with a rumbling stomach, then SP Chicken is your go-to spot. 

Easily the most popular chicken place in the city, this restaurant is famed for its succulent roast chicken. Its convenient location makes it an easy stop during your sightseeing adventures. 

Get there early, as they sometimes run out of chicken due to high demand! 

While all of their dishes are commendable, my top pick remains Roast Chicken Wichienbury. If you try it, let me know your pick!

Address: 9/1 ถนน สามล้าน ซอย 1 พระสิงห์ Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200

What to Order: Chicken and sticky rice

Cost: 190 baht for whole chicken and sticky rice

Best Fancy Food in Chiang Mai

When you’re ready for a break from Chiang Mai cheap eats, head to one of these “fancy” yet affordable restaurants in Chiang Mai.

Baan Landai Fine Thai Cuisine

Garnering popularity for their elegant interpretations of local Chiang Mai food, you’ll love Baan Landai, located in the Old Town. 

The crème de la crème of their innovative menu includes succulent pork ribs bathed in a rich red wine sauce and a refreshing lotus flower salad that’s as aesthetically pleasing as it is delicious. An equally enticing option is the pomelo shrimp salad. 

However, due to its growing reputation, securing a table at Baan Landai requires some planning — make your reservation several days in advance, even during off-peak times. 

Address: 252/13-14 Prapokklao Rd ถนน ศรีภูมิ Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200

What to Order: Mocktails, Pork Ribs in Red Wine Sauce, Crab Fried Rice

Cost: 1,000+ baht ($28.53 USD)

B Samcook Home 16

This family-run restaurant has earned a stellar reputation as one of the finest eateries in town, serving an Asian fusion menu that marries tradition with innovation. 

The chef is more than just a cook – he’s an artist crafting edible masterpieces. Dining here feels like a home-cooked meal at your best friend’s house but with better food and exceptional service. 

The set tasting menu is priced reasonably at either 1,090 or 1,680 baht with alcohol pairing – an exceptional value given the high-quality ingredients and artful presentation. You definitely won’t leave hungry – the chef will see to that, asking you if you want extra food before you go.

Make a reservation when you book your flight — such is the demand for Chef Sam’s creations! 

Address: 5 ถนน Kamphaeng Din 3 Alley, Haiya Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand

Cost: 1,090 baht ($31 USD) – set menu; 1,680 baht ($48 USD) – set menu with alcohol pairing

👉 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.

Best Coffee in Chiang Mai

It’s not just the delectably diverse food that Chiang Mai is renowned for; this vibrant city also boasts a thriving cafe culture, making it a hub for coffee enthusiasts as well.

Ristr8to

Ristr8to, strategically positioned location in the trendy Nimman neighborhood, has cemented its place as one of Chiang Mai’s premier coffee destinations. 

A haven for those who crave more than just a caffeine fix, Ristr8to takes coffee to an art form – quite literally. They’ve gained international acclaim for their award-winning latte art and remain unwavering in their commitment to quality, utilizing the robust doppio Ristretto for hot coffees and sourcing single-origin beans from across the globe. 

Yet, it’s not just about what’s in your cup at Ristr8to. The ambiance is a blend of rhythmic beats perpetually humming in the background, creating a lively yet cozy atmosphere that invites you to linger longer over your brew. 

Address: 15/3 Nimmanahaeminda Road, Tambon Su Thep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

Akha Ama

Akha Ama stands as a shining beacon in the world of coffee, renowned not just in Chiang Mai, but now also making waves in Tokyo, Japan. This is no accident; it’s a reputation earned through dedication and passion for crafting an exceptional cup of joe. 

The secret to their success lies in their unique approach to sourcing locally farmed coffee from Thailand, ensuring every sip you take is rooted in authenticity and freshness. 

The genius behind this social coffee brand is Lee-Ayu Chupa, an Akha individual who initiated a revolution ten years ago by fostering direct connections between farmers, roasters, and coffee shops. His efforts to eliminate the middleman paid off brilliantly, resulting in a richly flavorful brew that has earned Akha Ama its place among the most esteemed coffee establishments. 

If you’re a true coffee aficionado seeking out the best spots around the globe, then your journey wouldn’t be complete without savoring the delights at Akha Ama.

Address: 175 2 Rachadamnoen Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

Best Night Markets in Chiang Mai

There’s no shortage of night markets in Chiang Mai, and that’s where you’ll find some of the best food the city has to offer. Even the tourist night markets have some good eats (although they may be a little more expensive). 

I recommend visiting as many night markets as possible and trying multiple dishes. If a vendor has a line, particularly if there are locals in that line, it’s probably worth the wait.

• Gate Market: Known for its bustling atmosphere, this market is an ideal introduction to Chiang Mai’s diverse food culture. It’s located near the Saturday Night Market so you can visit both in one evening.

• Phuak Gate Market: Frequented by locals and tourists alike, Phuak Gate Market is famous for its authentic Thai dishes. Three of the vendors in this article are located in this market! It’s a quick scooter ride from my apartment, so I eat here on the reg.

• Sunday Night Market: The main food court here is a gastronomical paradise waiting to be explored. Don’t miss out on the delectable papaya salad and mouth-watering sausages from their popular stalls.

• Saturday Night Market: This epicurean haven comes alive every Saturday evening, offering everything from local delicacies to international cuisines. Veer off the walking street to take a peep at the lit Silver Temple.

• Night Bazaar: A favorite among street-food enthusiasts, Night Bazaar offers an array of scrumptious eats at affordable prices. There are several food courts here, some with live music. 

• University Night Market: A hotspot for students, this market offers drool-worthy options that cater to everyone from vegetarians to meat lovers. It’s even cheaper than the other night markets if you can believe it! It’s easy to get here via Songthaew if you don’t have a scooter.

• White Market at Nimman: Nestled in one of the city’s most trendy neighborhoods, White Market is the place to sample creative Thai fusion dishes amidst a chic urban setting. It’s pricier than the other night markets but has higher-end options and good vibes. Maya Lifestyle Shopping Mall is a hop, skip, and jump from here if you need to buy anything Nimman One doesn’t have.

• Warorot Market and Ton Lamyai Market: These twin markets are surefire destinations for foodies looking for traditional Northern Thai specialties crafted with love and fresh local ingredients. Follow the locals, and you’ll find the best stalls.

👉 My pick for the best 5-star food tour that includes a tour of Warorot Market is this Half Day Small Group Tour with Local Foodies.

Final Thoughts: Best Chiang Mai Dishes

The food in Chiang Mai plays a huge factor in why I’ve made it my part-time home. There are always new flavors to discover and new ingredients to explore.  

Start your Chiang Mai food journey with Khao Soi, a creamy coconut curry noodle soup that is a signature dish of Northern Thailand. Follow it up with Sai Oua, Chiang Mai’s famous spicy sausage packed with herbs and spices that dance on your palate. No food tour would be complete without tasting Gaeng Hang Lay, a Burmese-style pork belly curry that is a staple in every local feast.

Food tours are one of the most underrated types of tours that travelers can take. The beauty of a food tour in Chiang Mai is that it takes you off the beaten path and introduces you to hidden gems that you may not have discovered on your own. You’ll visit markets, street stalls, and family-owned restaurants where generations have perfected their recipes and techniques. 

Cooking classes are also popular in Chiang Mai, where you can learn how to make traditional dishes such as Pad Thai and Mango Sticky Rice from scratch. 

As you plan your itinerary for Chiang Mai, don’t forget to use my detailed guide—it’s your key to uncovering the best way to spend your time in Chiang Mai!