Chiang Mai, nestled in the mountainous region of northern Thailand, is a city where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly. Known for its rich history and vibrant culture, this city is also a culinary paradise. The local food scene is a delightful mix of traditional Thai flavors, innovative cuisine, and international influences that cater to every palate.

 

Wandering through Chiang Mai’s bustling night markets, you’ll find an array of street food that captures the essence of Thai cuisine. From spicy curries to sweet mango sticky rice, each stall offers a unique taste experience. These markets are not just about food; they are a vibrant part of the city's culture and social life.

 

Exploring the quaint alleyways, you'll discover hidden gems—small, family-run eateries serving authentic Northern Thai dishes. These spots often use recipes passed down through generations, offering diners a genuine taste of local tradition. The charm of these places lies in their simplicity and heartfelt hospitality.

 

For those seeking a more refined dining experience, Chiang Mai boasts a number of stylish modern establishments. These restaurants blend traditional Thai ingredients with contemporary culinary techniques, creating innovative dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Join us as we explore some of the best restaurants in Chiang Mai and all these restaurants have to offer, each promising a unique and unforgettable taste of Chiang Mai.

 

Selecting the Ideal Dining Experience in Chiang Mai, Thailand

This comprehensive guide will navigate you through the best restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls to suit every taste and preference.

 

Research and Plan

- Determine budget and preferences
- Read reviews and ask for recommendations

 

Choose Your Cuisine

- Traditional Thai
- International
- Vegetarian and Vegan

 

Consider Location and Ambiance

- Riverside
- Old Town
- Night Markets

 

Dining Styles

- Fine Dining
- Casual
- Street Food

 

Reservations and Tips

- Book ahead for popular restaurants
- Dress appropriately
- Be respectful of local customs

By following these simple steps, you'll find the perfect dining experience in Chiang Mai!

Best 12 Restaurants in Chiang Mai, Thailand

1. Alice's Restaurant

Alice's Restaurant in Thailand is a delightful eating facility known for its excellent service and delicious cuisine. The restaurant is also known for its cleanliness, inviting atmosphere, and excellent service. The crew is noted for their warm demeanor and are always eager to propose delectable dining options. While the authenticity of their Thai meals can be debated, their international offerings have been favorably welcomed. As a treat, they frequently surprise customers with a complimentary serving of their exquisite mango sticky rice. Alice's Restaurant is a must-see destination in Chiangmai, offering a lovely and unique eating experience.

What Customers are Saying

"This is a amazing place surrounded with moderate atmosphere , the food is so delightful, staffs are so friendly and recommend impressive cuisines. Surprisingly we got a free plate mango sticky rice in house! A must-visit restaurant in Chiangmai !" - Jackson Chuang

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Thai, International
  • Opening Times: 12pm-11.30pm
  • Address: 74, 1 Loi Kroh Rd, Tambon Chang Khlan, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand

2. Hummus Chiang Mai

Hummus Chiang Mai is a popular Middle Eastern Mediterranean Lebanese restaurant in Thailand noted for its award-winning hummus, which is precisely prepared with the ideal balance of chickpea paste, oil, and spices. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a complementary drink – a delicious house concoction with pomegranate molasses. The menu is brimming with delectable items, particularly the fully loaded pita pockets and beautifully green falafels, which are difficult to find outside the Middle East. All dishes are constantly fresh, and the staff is not just friendly but also attentive to special dietary needs like as vegan and gluten-free. The atmosphere is comfortable and clean, making you feel as if you've stepped into a high-end restaurant.

What Customers are Saying

"We really enjoyed the restaurant and delighted we found it through google reviews. We liked it so much, we ate dinner here three nights during our time in Chiang Mai. I liked that the menu clearly stated what was gluten-free, which is a bonus for me. The food was fresh and consistent all three nights we ate there and we liked that we could see into the kitchen through the window while waiting for our meal. I highly recommend."- Adam Hergert

Restaurant information

  • Cuisine: Mediterranean, Lebanese
  • Opening Times: 8am-10.30pm
  • Address: 109, 1 Mun Mueang Rd, Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

3. Bodhi Terrace

Bodhi Terrace offers a breathtaking dining experience that captures the essence of Thailand's unique hospitality. This restaurant, located under a magnificent 300-year-old tree among peaceful waters, provides an authentic Thai setting that is enhanced by live instrumental music. The cuisine at Bodhi Terrace is nothing short of exceptional, with each dish impressing even the most discerning palates. Whether you're looking for a quiet supper or hosting a gathering, Bodhi Terrace provides a great meal. The romantic environment, combined with exquisite food and excellent service, raises the bar for dining experiences in Chiang Mai. Whether you are a local or a tourist, Bodhi Terrace is a must-see restaurant that will provide an outstanding eating experience.

What Customers are Saying

"Best Restaurant in Thailand! I ate the best mushroom meal of my life. The persons that work there are amazing." - Luca Marra

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Thai
  • Opening Times: 6.30am-10.30am, 12pm-2.30pm, 5.30pm-10pm
  • Address: 123 Charoen Prathet Rd, Changklan, Muang, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand

4. Blackitch Artisan Kitchen

Blackitch Artisan Kitchen, located in the heart of Thailand, is a sought-after eating venue that provides its customers with an unforgettable gastronomic trip. The restaurant is praised for its distinctive and imaginative food, which features organic ingredients sourced from all over Thailand. With a seating capacity of only 16, the restaurant provides an intimate and cozy atmosphere, making every meal experience personal and unforgettable. Blackitch is proud of its 10-course meal, which was thoughtfully selected by the chef using fresh, seasonal products from his own farm. The vegetarian alternatives are as amazing and well-crafted as the rest of the menu, making it a must-visit for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians.

What Customers are Saying

"a homey, cosy, friendly restaurant that brings together organic produce from all over Thailand. Their dishes are delicious, high quality, the staffs are very attentive with friendly service. Be that adventurous eater and you will not regret! I also love love love their desserts. A reconstruction of childhood sweets with different textures and never too sweet. Please keep in mind the size of the restaurant. It is recommended to always make reservation a couple of days before hand and you won’t go wrong." - Achamaras Udosimi

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Thai
  • Opening Times: 11am-2pm, 5pm-10pm
  • Address: 27/1 Nimmanhemin Soi 7, Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

5. THE HOUSE by Ginger

The House by Ginger is a popular Thai restaurant known for its culinary grandeur and one-of-a-kind dining experience. With a Michelin star, this restaurant combines a pleasant setting with finely presented Thai food delivered in new and unusual manner. The interior is a visual treat, with enormous paintings covering the walls, each seating space giving a unique feel, and the overall design demonstrating meticulous attention to detail. The service is kind, efficient, and speedy, ensuring a positive experience for all guests. The House by Ginger is a must-see for food lovers and those looking for an unforgettable dining experience. Please remember to make your reservations in advance.

What Customers are Saying

"Delicious meal of beautifully presented Thai food done in creative, uncommon ways. Every seating arrangement in the restaurant is unique and most feel more like a living room, or an elegant private house and a restaurant. The walls are adorned with large paintings. There are a number of private rooms, and even in the larger salons, each dining area is special with unique lighting and its own seating arrangements. My only warning: when the waiter says lightly spicy that really means fiery hot!" - Ellen Stiefler

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Thai
  • Opening Times: 11am-10pm
  • Address: 199 Mun Mueang Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

6. B Samcook Home16

B Samcook Home16 is a spectacular dining establishment located in the center of Thailand. The restaurant takes pride in its innovative, elegantly presented dishes that excite the taste with a harmonious blend of flavors. The intimate ambiance makes it excellent for group dinners, with guests feeling like VIPs in the hands of Chef Sam's enthusiastic and dedicated team. The menu accommodates a wide range of dietary needs, including gluten-free and vegetarian alternatives, and the chef individually explains the preparation and substitutions to clients. Aside from the amazing cuisine, B Samcook Home16 is notable for its outstanding service.

What Customers are Saying

"Its our second time going back to Sam and we managed to get a sitting for group of 9! The intimate ambiance created an atmosphere for group dinner and that was why we decided to revisit again. Am impressed with the inventive dishes which Sam takes pride in explaining each dishes when he served out himself. The presentation of the dishes is beautiful and prepared with care which gives us a feel of being a VIP. The entire experience from the service to the kitchen, and was clearly thought-out and well executed by Sam and his team. Tasty and delicious Scrumptious, Amazing and Satisfying with an exquisite taste. A must try." - Saiko Freak

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Thai, Seafood
  • Opening Times: 11am-8.30pm
  • Address: 5 Kamphaeng Din 3 Alley, Haiya Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand

7. Tanita Coffee House

Nestled in the heart of Thailand, Tanita Coffee House offers a charming escape from the city's hustle and bustle. This delightful café provides an exceptional dining experience, with a friendly host eager to recommend dishes and organize day trips. Guests can enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, and bottled water, along with a breakfast of eggs and bacon, showcasing the warm hospitality extended to every visitor. Beyond coffee, Tanita Coffee House prides itself on Northern Thai specialties like noodle and pork biryani rice, all enjoyed in a serene garden setting that creates a perfect, tranquil ambiance for an afternoon break.

What Customers Are Saying

"This coffeeshop is a delight. Everything from the coffee to the presentation of the food to the friendly staff, this place is worth a visit! I had both a coffee as well as several of the food items and everything was excellent! I was impressed. The level of detail in how the food and coffee was presented made it clear that the owners of Tanita Coffee House really take pride in what they do. This place is a gem. Do yourself a favor and stop by while you’re in Chiang Mai! P.s. the restaurant/coffee house is nestled a little ways back from the street. Don’t let that deter you. Go right in! The owners of Tanita Coffee House are so warm and friendly! They want you to stop by." - Victoria Stafford

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Thai
  • Opening Times: 8.30am-6pm
  • Address: 152 Charoenrats Road, Wat Gate, Muang, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand

8. Goodsouls Kitchen

Goodsouls Kitchen is a lovely vegan restaurant located in the heart of Thailand that serves a perfect combination of Western and Asian cuisine. The restaurant is inviting and cozy, with a nice environment and calming music that create the ideal atmosphere for a pleasant eating experience. The crew is especially courteous and attentive, which adds to the restaurant's warm and inviting ambiance. Goodsouls Kitchen is popular among both vegans and non-vegans because of its fresh, high-quality, locally produced vegetables. Pad Thai, pitta, burgers, "steak", soups, pasta, and pizza are among the many Thai and Western items on the menu. The restaurant provides a pleasant dining experience with both indoor and outdoor seats.

What Customers Are Saying

"This is a really lovely fully vegan place the produce are very fresh and good quality locally sourced. A lot of attention to detail. Very tasty food I had the pad Thai and my friend had the pitta we both really enjoyed our meals this place is very expensive but with the quality and attention to detail with the food it’s worth it. The menu is also very extensive a lot of Thai dishes as well as western foods like burgers and “steak” soups pasta and pizza as well as a lot of deserts."-Oliwia G

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Thai, European
  • Opening Times: 8am-10pm
  • Address: 52 Sinharat Rd Lane 3, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

9. Oxygen Dining Room

Oxygen Dining Room in Thailand, located inside a luxury hotel by the river, provides an amazing dining experience that is both memorable and enjoyable. This wonderfully constructed restaurant has a quiet river view and a large garden, creating a tranquil setting ideal for families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a romantic supper. The restaurant is well-known for its delicious cuisine, which perfectly combines Thai flavors and Western cooking skills. For dinner, the Degustation Menu is highly recommended, as it includes a variety of visually beautiful and delicious meals. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a quality dining experience, Oxygen Dining Room delivers on all counts. Reservations are required and definitely worth the planning.

What Customers Are Saying

"This is my 2nd time eating here in a week, which I never really do and that is how good this restaurant is. This place is located inside a 5 star hotel and many of the 5 star hotel restaurants are not that special or great as far as I have experienced, but this one is distinctively different and worth some recognitions, which they are already getting. I have tried several dishes of theirs and they are simply on the next level. You can tell it is truly a fine cuisine and they just taste excellent and I can say this is one of the best western restaurants I have ever tried."-Ak

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Thai
  • Opening Times: 11.30am-10pm
  • Address: 369/1 Charoenraj Road, Wat Ket, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand

10. Tikky Cafe

Tikky Cafe is a colorful jewel hidden in the heart of Thailand. This beautiful restaurant has a diverse cuisine that caters to all tastes. Their meal, tastefully prepared with an artistic touch of multicolored edible flowers, is both visually appealing and delicious. Smoothies, particularly those made with coconut milk, have been praised as the best in Thailand. The restaurant's mood is accentuated by the calm setting, which includes lush vegetation, a koi pond, and a relaxing water fountain. Tikky Cafe offers both indoor and outdoor seating, making it ideal for a lunch at any time of day.

What Customers Are Saying

"Really beautiful cafe, such lovely owner, so friendly and kind not to mention delicious fruit cocktails. The food itself is beautifully presented with colourful edible flowers. Long menu with many choices to suit everyone at reasonable prices. Indoor and outdoor seating. Definitely a 10/10 for me" - Kate Nelson

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Thai
  • Opening Times: 11.45am-8.30pm
  • Address: 42, 2 Singharat Rd, Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

11. L'éléphant

L'éléphant is a stunning gastronomic wonder located in the heart of Thailand. This restaurant combines French cuisine with local flavors to provide an unforgettable dining experience. The chef's clever use of local ingredients to produce traditional French dishes with an innovative twist is highly commended by customers. Patrons love the 9-course tasting menu, which includes distinctive flavors such as local caviar, smoked abalone, and roasted lamb. L'éléphant's ambiance is similarly intriguing, with a sophisticated mix of private art collections and for-sale paintings creating a tranquil, elegant setting. Whether you're looking for a romantic supper or a gathering in one of their huge private rooms, L'éléphant guarantees an amazing evening. 

What Customers Are Saying

"The best Chef Table I've ever tried in my whole life! I put all my effort to reserve the queue every time I went to Chiang mai for almost half year but my schedule and restaurant schedule didn't match each other. Finally, my dream come true! every dish that served by chef is made me feel like I float to try heaven taste! Unique, Fabulous, Empathy for every details of each menu. Please make your self there once in your lifetime!" - Supapat Lamtongmongkol

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: French
  • Opening Times: 4.30pm-10pm
  • Address: 7 Siri Mangkalajarn Rd Lane 11, Tambon Su Thep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

12. Jacky Show Restaurant

Jacky Show Restaurant is a fantastic French gastronomic jewel situated in the heart of Thailand. The restaurant takes pleasure in offering an upscale yet comfortable dining experience, as well as a pleasant setting that makes diners feel cherished and relaxed. The attentive staff is commended for providing excellent service and creating a homey, welcoming atmosphere. The menu at Jacky Show Restaurant celebrates traditional French cuisine with a modern twist. The dishes are not only artistically designed, but also wonderfully presented, making each meal a visual feast. One of the most notable aspects of Jacky Show Restaurant is its startling affordability.

What Customers Are Saying

"The food is really good with both quality and affordable price. The staff and chef are super nice and welcoming, and they explain every dish well, creating a home-like, warm atmosphere. Highly recommend this place." - Yuxin Jiang

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: French
  • Opening Times: 11.30am-2pm, 6.30pm-9pm
  • Address: 108 Nhawatmaungsarrtluang Rd., Lamphun Soi 9.Rd, Nonghoi, Muang, Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand

Conclusion

As you wander through the bustling streets of Chiang Mai, the aroma of sizzling street food and the warm smiles of the locals will leave you feeling like you've found a second home. And when you finally settle into one of the city's best restaurants, the flavors and hospitality will wrap around you like a warm embrace. From the spicy kick of a traditional Thai dish to the comforting taste of a familiar international favorite, every bite is a testament to the city's love for food and its people. So come, taste, and experience the heart of Chiang Mai - its restaurants will leave you feeling full, happy, and eager to return for more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What kind of cuisine can I expect to find in restaurants in Chiang Mai?

A: You’ll find traditional Thai dishes like pad thai, green curry, and mango sticky rice, as well as international flavors like Italian, Indian, and Mexican.

Q: Are restaurants in Chiang Mai expensive?

A: Not at all! You can find delicious meals for every budget.

Q: Do restaurants in Chiang Mai accept credit cards?

A: Most restaurants in Chiang Mai accept major credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. But it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand, just in case!

Q: Can I dine alone in Chiang Mai restaurants?

A: Of course, solo traveler! Many restaurants in Chiang Mai welcome solo diners.

Q: What’s the best way to experience the local food culture in Chiang Mai?

A: Join a cooking class, take a food tour, or simply explore the night markets and street food stalls.

Q: Can I find vegan and vegetarian options in Chiang Mai restaurants?

A: Absolutely! Chiang Mai is a vegan and veggie lover’s paradise!

Q: What’s the best way to find restaurants that serve authentic Thai street food in Chiang Mai?

Through reviews on Tripadvisor or our newly launched platform, Dinelist.

Q: Can I find restaurants with a garden or outdoor space in Chiang Mai?

A: Absolutely! Many restaurants in Chiang Mai have beautiful gardens or outdoor spaces where you can enjoy your meal in a peaceful setting.

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