Where to eat in Chiang Mai: A food lover’s paradise

There is no doubt about it. Thailand has some of the best food in the world. Its unique cuisine of aromatic spices and flavoursome tastes has the attention of most of the world, and for food and travel lovers, a trip to Thailand is a must. In all of my travels in Thailand, the city of Chiang Mai in the north of the country has some of the best food I have tasted. It is quite amazing how the Thai cuisine can change so much depending on what part of the country you are in. The northern Thai food tends to be spicier, and for me, that is perfect. But the food doesn’t stop at authentic Thai cuisine in Chiang Mai. The city also has plenty to offer in International cuisine as well, making it a great food city. Follow this food guide to where to eat in Chiang Mai.

Aroy Dee

This tiny family run restaurant on the moat road in the Old City, located near Sompet Market, serves only four dishes, and they cook them to perfection. All you will get here is fried noodles or fried rice, but it is so good that you will be coming back time and time again. My favourites are the fried rice and pad see ew.

Fried Rice at Aroy Dee

Barnakarn Kitchen

A popular street side restaurant north of Sompet Market, Barnakarn serves traditional northern Thai food. The food is authentic and definitely not toned down for tourists. I haven’t had a dish here that I didn’t like. Try their amazing Panang Curry or their crispy pork with green vegetables. If you are looking for great Thai food and can’t decide where to eat in Chiang Mai, you really can’t go wrong here.

Panang Curry at Barnakarn Kitchen

Chiang Mai Gate

Lots of street food stalls set up at the southern gate of the Old City at night time, and there is a lot of great food options here. The only problem is trying to decide what to get!

Isaan Ros Sab

This place serves authentic Isaan  and northern Thai dishes, and they do them well. I also had a great Tom Yum here, and their salads are amazing.

Gravy Noodles and Papaya Salad at Isaan Rob Sab

Girasole

If you need an Italian change, you can’t get much better than Girasole. This place serves great, professional Italian food – Probably the best pizza in Chiang Mai, right in the heart of the Old City.

Street Markets

The Saturday and Sunday Night Markets might be touristy, but they have some great street food! You won’t have any trouble filling yourself up here. Markets are fantastic places to eat in Chiang Mai.

Street food snacks at the Sunday Market

Mike’s Diner

What would you expect to get at a place with that name? You guessed it. Burgers…and hot dogs! I must admit, I’ve had some pretty bad burgers in Chiang Mai, but Mike’s Diner does a decent one, and the fries are pretty good as well.

Morning Glory

If you’re a vegetarian and having trouble finding where to eat in Chiang Mai, head straight to Morning Glory. This place specialises in Thai vegetarian food, all with its own twist. Yum!

Best Local Thai Food

Yep, that’s the name of the restaurant, but it’s not a bad claim. Their food is very good! This little place is located next to Sompet Market in the Old City and serves great Thai Food. Try their curries!

Yellow Curry at Best Local Thai Food

These great places should help you decide where to eat in Chiang Mai. This city truly is one of the great food cities of the world.

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