Discovering the Culinary Delights of Chiang Mai

I first arrived in Chiang Mai in May of 1992. I came to visit a high school buddy who had married a local – a professor at Chiang Mai University. They introduced me to the local cuisine and their friends and family members who took me under their collective wing.

I was hooked. Since then, I have returned every year, immersing myself in the rich food culture of Thailand—especially that of Chiang Mai and its surrounding countryside. Over the past three decades, a lot has changed in this land of Lanna, but one thing remains constant: Chiang Mai is one of the great eating destinations in the world.

Breakfast

In Thailand, breakfast foods are often the same as lunch or dinner foods. My favorite spot for a morning meal is the decades-old family-run Phatom, known for its rice porridge served alongside an array of Chinese/Thai dishes like jap chai (fried sweet Chinese sausage and braised tofu). Moreover, Laap Dii Khom Khon Yong, situated just off the first ring road, serves some of the best Northern Thai laap, particularly laap muu suk (cooked pork version) and dishes like jaw phak kat (greens soup) and kaeng awm (beef shin stew).

Coffee

Thailand has become a hotbed of specialty coffee, with Chiang Mai serving as the de facto capital of this movement. My go-to spot is Akha Ama, located in the old town center. Here, highly trained baristas prepare the best espresso drinks with direct trade coffee from the Akha people of Chiang Rai province. A bit outside the city core, Flo is another local favorite, located in a century-old wooden shophouse.

Lunch

In the heart of the old city is Yok Fa Pochana, famous for the tastiest plate of phat si ew (stir fry noodles) cooked to perfection in a giant wok over a roaring fire. Another spot to seek out is Naam Ngiao Phayao, which offers a fresh rice vermicelli dish combined with a sour, umami-rich curry/soup. This dish is a crucial part of the regional cuisine.

Additionally, Khao Soi Prince serves exemplary bowls of khao soi (egg noodle soup in a curry broth) in a setting that showcases decades-old family recipes.

Aperitivo

Located on Moonmuang Rd, Kafe 1985 is a casual pub where locals and travelers alike gather for cold beers and top-notch drinking snacks. Alternatively, the rooftop bar at Anantara provides a more upscale experience with a happy hour menu and stunning sunset views over the Ping River.

Dinner

While lunch may boast the best meals, there are still gems to be discovered in the evenings. Notably, Maadae Slow Fish Kitchen offers sustainably caught seafood and local produce with traditional Thai flavors. Don’t overlook their dessert of naturally harvested sago pearls in coconut cream. Another top contender is Rasik Local Kitchen, known for its exceptional curries.

Bar

For a relaxing evening, San in the Night Bazaar offers a cozy environment with expertly crafted cocktails and a touch of jazz. Alternatively, The White Rabbit, a speakeasy hidden away in an old shophouse, specializes in imaginative cocktails using local ingredients.

Experience Chiang Mai’s Culinary Landscape to the fullest with these insights from iBestTravel. Enjoy exploring the diverse and vibrant food scene that this beautiful city has to offer.