15 Best Restaurants in Chiang Rai You Can’t Miss!

ByCat Roberts Updated on

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This small town may not be as lively as Chiang Mai, but Chiang Rai has some fantastic restaurants. The restaurants in Chiang Rai offer a mix of traditional Thai and Western cuisine. 

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Most spots are inexpensive, some offer lovely views of the Kok River, and others are in the heart of town.

Northern Thai cuisine is unique and distinct from other parts of Thailand, influenced by Myanmar, China, and India. Yes, you can find Pad Thai and green curry here, but traditional Northern Thai dishes like khao soi and northern Thai sausage are must-tries.

Finding the best places to eat in a new city can be challenging. You don’t want to end up at overpriced tourist traps with mediocre food! 

As a food-obsessed traveler who has lived in Chiang Mai for six months, I’ve gotten to know northern Thai cuisine well. I recently spent four days eating my way around Chiang Rai, and I’m excited to share my favorite spots with you!

🌶️ My pick for the best cooking class in Chiang Rai is this Half-Day Thai Cooking Class with Organic Ingredients–it includes a tour of a local market and has a 5-star rating!

Two plates of traditional Thai dishes at Barrab restaurant in Chiang Rai, featuring rice, fresh herbs, curry, and roti. A great example of delicious Chiang Rai Thai food.

1. Barrab Restaurant 

Barrab Restaurant was my favorite restaurant in Chiang Rai! 

This small, cozy spot specializes in Northern Thai dishes and is perfect for solo travelers. I actually met another solo traveler there who ended up joining my table before we got dessert together afterward.

The menu offers both small and large portions, so you can try a variety of dishes without committing to a full meal. The prices are very affordable, and there are plenty of vegetarian options. 

The manager speaks perfect English and patiently explains the menu, making it an excellent choice if you’re nervous about trying new foods. I highly recommend the Barrab and Hung Lay Curry – both were delicious!

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A plate of papaya salad featuring unripe papaya, peanuts, tomatoes, and other ingredients, often served at a Chiang Rai Restaurants.

2. Tum Ka Yum Cafe

Tum Ka Yum Cafe is a must-visit restaurant in Chiang Rai, especially if you love Thai food. This place is a favorite among locals AND travelers, offering delicious dishes that aren’t too spicy for us farang (make sure you tell them how spicy you want it when you order!). 

The restaurant has air-conditioning, making it a comfortable spot to escape the heat. 

Tum Ka Yum Cafe boasts a 5-star rating on Google with over 70 reviews. My biggest regret was not making it here – I ran out of time. 

The pork, chicken, and shrimp dishes look amazing. While the menu isn’t in English, there are pictures to help you decide. Definitely go here and let me know how it is!

Close-up of a solo female traveler (me) holding a skewer of Sai Oua, a Northern Thai sausage, a staple on food tours in Chiang Mai

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A white plate with a cake covered in chocolate frosting next to a cup of iced tea with a lemon floating on top.

3. Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House

Don’t let the name fool you – Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House is not just a coffee shop, but also a fantastic restaurant offering both Thai and Western dishes. 

This beautiful spot is located right on the river, providing a serene dining experience. The coffee shop is up front, while the restaurant serves great food. The second floor even has a small library and a pool table. They thoughtfully offer bug spray, and you’ll want to use it. 

The food here is excellent, with a nice selection of cocktails and jazz music to set the mood. It’s also not too far from the Blue Temple, making it a convenient stop. The truffle beef burger is particularly popular.

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Two bowls of colorful Thai desserts in syrup at a Chiang Rai dessert restaurant. These unique treats are a must-try for anyone exploring food in Chiang Rai.

4. Waan Jai

Waan Jai is a popular dessert spot locals love, offering a traditional Thai dessert. Think of it as a Thai snow cone or ice cream sundae. 

Here, you can choose between shaved ice with coconut milk, shaved ice with condensed milk, ice cream, or coconut pudding with milk. You can also choose several of the 30 toppings. 

I tried the crushed ice with coconut milk and a variety of toppings, and it was delicious. 

If you enjoy Waan Jai, you’ll love the Bua Loi dessert stall at the Chang Phuak Gate Night Market in Chiang Mai. 

Conveniently located near the clock tower, Waan Jai is the perfect place to satisfy your sweet tooth.

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A close-up of a bite of grilled pork dipped in sauce, with fresh herbs and dipping sauces in the background at a Chiang Rai Thai restaurant. This showcases the flavorful and authentic Thai food available in Chiang Rai restaurants.

5. ร้านคุณยาย by Chef Keng

ร้านคุณยาย by Chef Keng is a hidden gem offering delicious food at great prices. This simple, unassuming spot serves beef noodles, crispy pork, stewed pork with basil, and crab omelets that are loved by both Thai locals and visitors. 

The staff is friendly, and they have an English menu, making it easy to order. The outdoor seating adds to the charm. The place may be simple and located on a small street, but the food is fantastic – proof that sometimes simple makes perfection. 

While the staff doesn’t speak much English, they speak enough to get you everything just how you want it. If you’re looking for a fancy place, this isn’t it. But if you want local food with a homemade taste, this is the place to go.

A bowl of Khao Soi, a traditional Northern Thai noodle curry, served with crispy fried noodles on top, at a Chiang Rai restaurant. This dish is a highlight of Chiang Rai Thai food.

6. Khao Soi Thao Gae Ek

I’m obsessed with khao soi and have eaten an embarrassing amount of it while living in Chiang Mai, so Khao Soi Thao Gae Ek in Chiang Rai deserves a spot on my list of best Chiang Rai restaurants, for sure! 

This spot serves a creamy coconut curry noodle soup that’s absolutely delicious. The broth is rich and flavorful, and the crispy yet tender pork belly stands out. They also offer tasty dumplings and spring rolls to complete your meal. 

It’s the perfect place to grab a hearty breakfast or lunch near Wat Phra Kaew. If you love khao soi as much as I do, you’ll definitely want to check this place out.

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A cup of latte with a leaf design in the foam, placed on a white table outdoors with a Kindle e-reader in the background. This serene setting is a great example of the cozy ambiance found in Chiang Rai cafes, perfect for enjoying a quiet moment with a coffee in Chiang Rai.

7. The Wanderer

The Wanderer is a charming Chiang Rai cafe set in a peaceful, wooded location that’s perfect for a relaxing meal. Tucked away in the middle of the forest and surrounded by trees and a pond, this spot offers a serene atmosphere that’s hard to beat. 

If you’re wondering where to eat in Chiang Rai, this cafe’s setting by the river is the best part, making it a great place for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. It’s places like this that made me want to make the 3-hour journey to Chiang Rai in the first place!

They have misters to keep you cool outside, or you can sit inside, too. The menu includes all-day breakfast and lunch options, with delicious choices like grilled cheese, fluffy pancakes, pies, and cakes. 

The Wanderer is an ideal restaurant in Chiang Rai for anyone looking to enjoy good food in a beautiful, tranquil setting.

A bowl of rich, creamy curry and a plate of steamed rice served at a Chiang Rai restaurant. This dish is a staple in Chiang Rai food offerings and represents authentic Thai cuisine.

8. Khao Soi Restaurant

Despite its name, Khao Soi Restaurant offers much more than just khao soi, and their other dishes might even be better! 

This spot is perfect for all your favorite Thai dishes like fried rice, pad Thai, curry, and fried pork with basil. 

The best part? Most dishes cost less than $2 USD, making it a budget-friendly choice. It opens after 2PM, so it’s great for a late lunch or dinner. 

If you’re looking for a variety of tasty Thai meals without breaking the bank, Khao Soi Restaurant in Chiang Rai is the place to go.

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Close-up of a solo female traveler (me) holding a skewer of Sai Oua, a Northern Thai sausage, a staple on food tours in Chiang Mai

9. Leelawadee Chiang Rai Restaurant

Leelawadee came highly recommended by my hotel as one of the best restaurants in Chiang Rai, and it doesn’t disappoint. 

This large, popular spot offers a great atmosphere next to the canal and is known for its Northern Thai food. 

The menu features delicious dishes like northern Thai spicy sausage and stir-fried chicken or pork. As one of the oldest restaurants in Chiang Rai, they must be doing something right. 

The restaurant is especially popular at sunset and often has live music to enhance the dining experience. If you want to enjoy a mix of good food and a pleasant ambiance, Leelawadee is a fantastic choice.

A board of sliced steak and french fries and a side of salad.

10. Hungry Wolf’s Steak & Ale House

If you’re craving Western food, Hungry Wolf’s Steak & Ale House is the place to go. 

They offer a variety of dishes, including pizza, burgers, pasta, soups, salads, and, of course, steak! The restaurant has a great selection of draft beer and cider, perfect for pairing with your meal. 

While it’s a bit pricier compared to local food, the quality and great service make it worth it. They’re also accommodating of gluten and other allergies, which is a big plus. I love Thai food, but I need variety and can’t eat the same thing every day, so Hungry Wolf’s definitely hits the spot.

A cheese pizza with basil and tomato garnish and a Kindle next to it on the table.

11. Favola at Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort

While we’re on the topic of splurging…If you feel like treating yourself, Favola at Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort might be the fanciest restaurant in Chiang Rai! 

This restaurant offers amazing food with a world-class view of the Kok River. It’s such a beautiful resort!

Their Sunday Roast is excellent, and the service is very attentive. The hotel also offers an afternoon tea set from 1 to 4PM every day and a happy hour (50% off cocktails!) from 5:30 to 6:30PM. 

Favola features an Italian menu, making it a great place to splurge while enjoying delicious cuisine and a stunning view. The signature pizza and beef steak are highly recommended. 

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White plate with pad thai noodles and a fork, next to a plastic cup of mango smoothie. One of the best restaurants in Chiang Rai for pad thai!

12. Pad Thai Jet Yod

Let’s take it back to basics with Pad Thai Jet Yod, a fantastic spot for classic Pad Thai. 

The very sweet owners work hard in the kitchen, making delicious pad Thai, pad see ew, fried rice, and fresh fruit smoothies. I tried their pad Thai and pad see ew, both delicious, as is the mango smoothie.

I ate here a couple of times because they were open longer than some other restaurants for lunch, which was perfect when I got back to town late afternoon after sightseeing. If you’re craving a good pad Thai in Chiang Rai, this is the place to go!

A bowl of orangish-colored curry garnished with green herbs next to a basket filled with sticky rice.

13. Larb Sanam Keela

Larb Sanam Keela is a popular spot among locals and a great place to try traditional Northern Thai food in Chiang Rai. Their menu includes papaya salad, fried fish with garlic, and fried chicken, with English descriptions to make ordering easy. 

They also have a whole Laap menu if you want to try this very traditional Northern Thai dish. I tried Laap for the first time on my Chiang Mai food tour, and while I wasn’t a big fan, I’m glad I gave this famous local dish a try. 

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to experience authentic Northern Thai cuisine, Larb Sanam Keela is the place to go.

Image: Note Thanun/Unsplash

14. Bhu Bhirom (Singha Park)

Bhu Bhirom is a beautiful restaurant located inside Singha Park, a large park known for its scenic landscapes, tea plantations, and outdoor activities. Visiting Singa Park is one of the best things to do in Chiang Rai!

While the restaurant is a little on the pricey side compared to other Chiang Rai Thai restaurants, you’re paying for the stunning views that come with it.

It can get busy at lunchtime, but it’s especially nice at sunset. 

Bhu Bhirom offers a variety of Thai dishes and serves coffee, tea, and Singha beer (of course!). If you want to enjoy a meal with a view, this is the perfect spot.

A display of assorted cream-filled pastries at a Chiang Rai cafe, featuring Hokkaido Choco Cream, Oreo-topped pastry, and strawberry cream pastry. This highlights the delightful desserts available at Chiang Rai cafes.

15. Kyoto Shi Cafe

I stumbled upon Kyoto Shi Cafe near my hotel, and it was such a cute find! This Japanese-style cafe is perfect if you’re craving something sweet. 

I tried a donut, and it was delicious! They also have a food menu, which I believe comes from next door, and it looks just as tasty. They had some good-looking salmon sashimi on the menu, but I had already eaten, sadly. 

The decor makes you feel like you’re in Japan, with cute photo spots all around. If you’re looking for a fun spot to take a break and get your sugar fix in Chiang Rai, Kyoto Shi Cafe is the place to go!

Shoppers walking through the bustling Saturday Night Market in Chiang Rai, lined with stalls selling various foods and goods. This vibrant scene captures where to eat in Chiang Rai and highlights the lively atmosphere of Chiang Rai restaurants and food vendors.

Bonus: Saturday Night Market

While not a restaurant, I couldn’t leave the Saturday Night Market off my list of Chiang Rai food spots! I wasn’t expecting it to be that big since the town is so small (and I wasn’t that impressed with the Night Bazaar), but it was the perfect size with a lot of stalls and options. 

There were some familiar dishes that I often see at the Sunday Night Market in Chiang Mai, but also a few new ones to try. 

It was raining when I visited, so I walked the whole market and took my purchases back to my hotel for a cozy bed picnic. 

The atmosphere was great, with live music and locals dancing! This market is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the vibrant Chiang Rai Thai food scene.

A staff member at Barrab restaurant in Chiang Rai explaining the menu. This image showcases the friendly service and extensive menu at one of the best restaurants in Chiang Rai.
A solo female traveler (me!) sitting in front of a sprawling tea plantation at a table with a green tea crepe cake and iced tea in front of her, elbow on the table and smiling at the camera.

Final Thoughts: Best Chiang Rai Restaurants

Chiang Rai may be a small town, but it’s packed with fantastic restaurants offering a mix of traditional Northern Thai and Western cuisine. Navigating the food scene in a new city is tricky, and it’s easy to fall into the trap of overpriced tourist spots with lackluster meals (literally my worst nightmare).

That’s why I’ve shared my favorite spots to help you enjoy the best food Chiang Rai has to offer.

My favorite restaurant in Chiang Rai was Barrab, which serves traditional Northern Thai food in an accessible way. They offer small portions, so even a solo traveler like me can try multiple dishes without ordering an obscene amount of food. I finally got to try more than one thing from the menu!

Head to Waan Jai to try a popular Thai dessert afterward. Yum.

Northern Thai food is delicious and very unique compared to other parts of Thailand, so many of the restaurants on the list showcase that. But when you’re craving something familiar, head to one of the Western restaurants on the list.

If you love exploring Northern Thai food, take this incredible food tour when you get to Chiang Mai. I just took it and have a whole new appreciation for Northern Thai food, and I learned so much about Northern Thailand in the process!

Close-up of a solo female traveler (me) holding a skewer of Sai Oua, a Northern Thai sausage, a staple on food tours in Chiang Mai

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Read More About Chiang Rai:

📝 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.

Cat is a 35-year-old American solo female traveler on a career break, traveling the world full-time since 2021. She loves meeting new people, considers herself to be a bit of a foodie, and reads a lot.