Chiang Mai Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Chiang Mai. Your complete guide to dining in Chiang Mai.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Chiang Mai! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Chiang Mai has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Chiang Mai's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Chiang Mai like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Chiang Mai offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Chiang Mai.
Garden to Table Chiangmai
Highly rated Thai in Chiang Mai with 4.9 stars from 1504 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
π 136 4 Ratchapakhinai Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈBudget-friendly prices
- π½οΈAuthentic Thai cuisine
Alice's Restaurant
Highly rated Thai in Chiang Mai with 4.7 stars from 2149 reviews.
π 74, 1 Loi Kroh Rd, Tambon Chang Khlan, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈAuthentic Thai cuisine
B Samcook Home16
Highly rated Restaurant in Chiang Mai with 4.9 stars from 1735 reviews.
π 5 Soi Kamphaeng Din 3, Tambon Hai Ya, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈKnowledgeable staff
Thai Food Good Taste - Chiang Mai
Highly rated Restaurant in Chiang Mai with 4.8 stars from 340 reviews.
π Rachadamnoen Rd, Tambon Si Phum, ΰΉΰΈ‘ΰΈ·ΰΈΰΈ Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈEstablished local favorite
- π½οΈKnowledgeable staff
Another World
Highly rated Restaurant in Chiang Mai with 4.9 stars from 695 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π T. Phra Singh, 22 Moon Muang, Tambon Phra Sing, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈEstablished local favorite
- π½οΈKnowledgeable staff
Hummus Chiang Mai
Highly rated Mediterranean in Chiang Mai with 4.8 stars from 3987 reviews.
π 109, 1 Mun Mueang Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈAuthentic Mediterranean cuisine
CHARMM : BISTRO & GALLERY
Highly rated Restaurant in Chiang Mai with 4.8 stars from 653 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 264 Changphuak Soi 1, Sri Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈEstablished local favorite
- π½οΈKnowledgeable staff
Mr. KAI Restaurant
Highly rated Thai in Chiang Mai with 4.7 stars from 2138 reviews.
π 11 5 Jhaban Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈBudget-friendly prices
- π½οΈAuthentic Thai cuisine
Chai n Thai @ Nimman Indian Restaurant , Best & Nearest North Indian-South Indian , Vegan , Non veg , Halal, Gluten free Food
Highly rated Indian in Chiang Mai with 4.9 stars from 2771 reviews.
π 20 Nimmana Haeminda Rd Lane 9, Tambon Su Thep, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈAuthentic Indian cuisine
Chada Vegetarian Restaurant Chiang Mai
Highly rated Restaurant in Chiang Mai with 4.8 stars from 1974 reviews.
π 136/5 Ratchapakhinai Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈBudget-friendly prices
Dash Teak House
Highly rated Thai in Chiang Mai with 4.5 stars from 3079 reviews.
π 38, 2 MoonMuang Rd Lane 2, Tambon Phra Sing, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈAuthentic Thai cuisine
Itβs Good Kitchen
Highly rated Thai in Chiang Mai with 4.6 stars from 3517 reviews.
π 175/6 Rachadamnoen Rd, Tambon Phra Sing, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈBudget-friendly prices
- π½οΈAuthentic Thai cuisine
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Chiang Mai.
Chiang Mai Gate Market
Highly rated International in Chiang Mai with 4.4 stars from 9220 reviews.
π Thanon Bumrung Buri, Tambon Phra Sing, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈWell-reviewed establishment
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈKnowledgeable staff
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Highly rated International in Chiang Mai with 4.3 stars from 25571 reviews.
π Changklan Rd, Tambon Chang Moi, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
- π½οΈWell-reviewed establishment
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈKnowledgeable staff
Jing Jai Market Chiang Mai
Highly rated International in Chiang Mai with 4.5 stars from 10566 reviews.
π 46 Thanon Atsadathon, Tambon Pa Tan, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈKnowledgeable staff
Warorot Market (Kad Luang)
Highly rated International in Chiang Mai with 4.4 stars from 6439 reviews.
π 10,12, 14 Wichayanon Rd, Tambon Chang Moi, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand
- π½οΈWell-reviewed establishment
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈKnowledgeable staff
Wua Lai Walking Street Saturday Market
Highly rated International in Chiang Mai with 4.5 stars from 7414 reviews.
π 69 Wua Lai Rd, Tambon Hai Ya, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈKnowledgeable staff
Fresh Fruits Market, Chiang Mai
Highly rated International in Chiang Mai with 4.4 stars from 2402 reviews.
π QXWX+FM4, Chang Moi Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand
- π½οΈWell-reviewed establishment
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈKnowledgeable staff
Mueang Mai Market
Highly rated International in Chiang Mai with 4.3 stars from 6386 reviews.
π 98, 9 Chiang Mai Soi 3, Tambon Chang Moi, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand
- π½οΈWell-reviewed establishment
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈKnowledgeable staff
Tha Phae Walking Street
Highly rated International in Chiang Mai with 4.5 stars from 6633 reviews.
π Rachadamnoen Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈKnowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Chiang Mai.
Chiang Mai Street Food Tours
Highly rated International in Chiang Mai with 4.8 stars from 49 reviews.
- β’Book in advance, especially during peak season
- β’Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- β’Wear comfortable walking shoes
- β’Bring a camera for memorable moments
- β’Ask your guide for local recommendations
A Chef's Tour Chiang Mai Food Tours
Highly rated International in Chiang Mai with 4.9 stars from 68 reviews.
- β’Book in advance, especially during peak season
- β’Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- β’Wear comfortable walking shoes
- β’Bring a camera for memorable moments
- β’Ask your guide for local recommendations
Chiang Mai Night Tours
Highly rated International in Chiang Mai with 5 stars from 16 reviews.
- β’Book in advance, especially during peak season
- β’Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- β’Wear comfortable walking shoes
- β’Bring a camera for memorable moments
- β’Ask your guide for local recommendations
Chiang Mai Hill-tribe Coffee Tour, Chiang Mai sustainable Tour.
Highly rated International in Chiang Mai with 5 stars from 149 reviews.
- β’Book in advance, especially during peak season
- β’Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- β’Wear comfortable walking shoes
- β’Bring a camera for memorable moments
- β’Ask your guide for local recommendations
Private Guide in Chiang Mai Food Tours
Highly rated International in Chiang Mai with 5 stars from 5 reviews.
- β’Book in advance, especially during peak season
- β’Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- β’Wear comfortable walking shoes
- β’Bring a camera for memorable moments
- β’Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Chiang Mai.
Caramellow Cafe
Highly rated Cafe in Chiang Mai with 4.9 stars from 3333 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
π Caramellow, 223 Thanon Mahidol, Tambon Pa Daet, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈAuthentic Cafe cuisine
Fern Forest Cafe
Highly rated Cafe in Chiang Mai with 4.4 stars from 3209 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
π 54, 1 Singharat Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈWell-reviewed establishment
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈAuthentic Cafe cuisine
The Baristro Asian Style
Highly rated Cafe in Chiang Mai with 4.7 stars from 2479 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
π ΰΈͺΰΈΈΰΉΰΈΰΈ, 200 Suthep Rd, Tambon Su Thep, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈUpscale dining experience
- π½οΈAuthentic Cafe cuisine
Pegasus CafΓ© & Roastery
Highly rated Cafe in Chiang Mai with 4.9 stars from 617 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
π 123 2 Ratchamanka Rd, Tambon Phra Sing, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈEstablished local favorite
- π½οΈAuthentic Cafe cuisine
The Giant Chiangmai
Highly rated Cafe in Chiang Mai with 4 stars from 2874 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
π 9, ΰΈ«ΰΈ‘ΰΈΉΰΉΰΈΰΉΰΈ²ΰΈ ΰΈΰΉΰΈ²ΰΈΰΈΰΉΰΈΰΈ, Tambon Huai Kaeo, Amphoe Mae On, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50130, Thailand
- π½οΈWell-reviewed establishment
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈUpscale dining experience
- π½οΈAuthentic Cafe cuisine
Into the Woods
Highly rated Cafe in Chiang Mai with 4.6 stars from 619 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
π 191 193 Prapokklao Road, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈEstablished local favorite
- π½οΈAuthentic Cafe cuisine
Cafe de Oasis & Toby's Pizza
Highly rated Cafe in Chiang Mai with 4.6 stars from 2353 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
π 131 25 Moo 1, Tambon Chang Phueak, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈAuthentic Cafe cuisine
Fahtara Coffee (ΰΈΰΉΰΈ²ΰΈΰΈ²ΰΈ£ΰΈ²ΰΈΰΈΰΈΰΈΰΈ΅ΰΉ)
Highly rated Restaurant in Chiang Mai with 4.6 stars from 572 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
π 57 Wiang Kaew Rd, Sripoom Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈEstablished local favorite
- π½οΈKnowledgeable staff
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Chiang Mai.
Signature Dish
A must-try Chiang Mai specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- β’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- β’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- β’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- β’Try it at multiple places to compare
- β’Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Chiang Mai dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- β’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- β’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- β’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- β’Try it at multiple places to compare
- β’Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Chiang Mai with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- β’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- β’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- β’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- β’Try it at multiple places to compare
- β’Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Chiang Mai specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- β’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- β’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- β’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- β’Try it at multiple places to compare
- β’Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Chiang Mai creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- β’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- β’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- β’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- β’Try it at multiple places to compare
- β’Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Chiang Mai classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- β’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- β’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- β’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- β’Try it at multiple places to compare
- β’Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Chiang Mai specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- β’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- β’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- β’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- β’Try it at multiple places to compare
- β’Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Chiang Mai dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- β’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- β’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- β’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- β’Try it at multiple places to compare
- β’Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Chiang Mai with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- β’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- β’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- β’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- β’Try it at multiple places to compare
- β’Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Chiang Mai specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- β’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- β’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- β’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- β’Try it at multiple places to compare
- β’Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Chiang Mai.
MAI The Sky Bar
Highly rated Bar in Chiang Mai with 4.9 stars from 1014 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π Charoen Prathet Rd, Tambon Chang Khlan, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈAuthentic Bar cuisine
Euphoria Cocktail Lounge
Highly rated Bar in Chiang Mai with 4.9 stars from 514 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 205 Sri Poom Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈEstablished local favorite
- π½οΈAuthentic Bar cuisine
The Simple
Highly rated Bar in Chiang Mai with 4.9 stars from 553 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 104 Ratchapakhinai Rd, Tambon Phra Sing, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈEstablished local favorite
- π½οΈAuthentic Bar cuisine
Surr Bar
Highly rated Bar in Chiang Mai with 4.9 stars from 739 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 8th floor, Art Mai Gallery Hotel, Soi3, Nimmanahaeminda Road, Tambon Su Thep, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈEstablished local favorite
- π½οΈAuthentic Bar cuisine
Nophaburi Bar | Thai Cocktail
Highly rated Bar in Chiang Mai with 4.8 stars from 479 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 75/1 samlaan Rd., Phasingh, Mueang, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈHighly rated by customers
- π½οΈEstablished local favorite
- π½οΈAuthentic Bar cuisine
Zoe in Yellow
Highly rated Bar in Chiang Mai with 4.2 stars from 4568 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 48, QXRR+F4X, 1 Ratvithi Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- π½οΈWell-reviewed establishment
- π½οΈPopular with locals and visitors
- π½οΈAuthentic Bar cuisine
Essential Tips
- π½οΈMake reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- π½οΈTry local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- π½οΈAsk locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- π½οΈVisit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- π½οΈDon't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- π½οΈTake a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- π½οΈCheck restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- π½οΈBring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- π½οΈPace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- π½οΈDocument your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Chiang Mai's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in Chiang Mai vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Chiang Mai is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in Chiang Mai offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Chiang Mai specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
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