Within the ancient city walls of Chiang Mai is a foodie’s paradise waiting to be explored. Check out our list of the 10 best restaurants located in the historic Old City.
This article was originally written by Lena Blos and has since been updated.
Although hidden down a quiet lane (soi), a few minutes from Tha Pae Gate, Dash is not a secret and is popular with Chiang Mai locals. They offer a mixture of Thai and Western food, but it’s the setting that really appeals. The restaurant is located in a beautiful wooden house, with a pretty patio area and lush garden. The live band that plays in the evening adds to the homely ambiance.
Huen Phen Restaurant is one of the cheaper options on our list. This long-established restaurant has been serving northern Thai cuisine, based on old family recipes, for over 40 years. Their khao soi is said to be one of the best in the city, and their dining room is particularly welcoming.
The Khantoke Dinner is a wonderful way to spend the evening. You will experience a traditional Thai dinner and dancing show all within the charming atmosphere of the Chiang Mai Cultural Centre. Enjoy a range of northern Thai food, to share, with dishes including chicken curry, Burmese-style pork curry, fried chicken, sticky rice, vegetables with a spicy chilli dip and the local delicacy of deep-fried pork skin.
Part of the U Chiang Mai Hotel, Eat Restaurant offers local cuisine cooked using traditional techniques. The crab curry and local pad thai are popular, and you can choose to enjoy your meal inside, in air-conditioned enjoyment or outside in the heart of the Sunday Walking Street Market.
With a superb location in a traditional Thai house, Ginger & Kafe offers a distinctive restaurant experience, with excellent food and service. The restaurant’s décor is fabulous, with antique furniture, colourful accessories and amazing attention to detail. They offer Thai and international favourites with the massaman curry being hailed as one of the best in the city. Before you leave, pop by the onsite shop where you can buy beautiful furniture and other household items.
Dada Kafe is a must for every visitor to Chiang Mai, with its fresh and healthy Thai and international dishes. Its smoothie selection is extensive and serves as a perfect start to the day. The decoration is natural and welcoming, with flower baskets adorning the entrance. This little Thai jewel is great for health fanatics as well as laid-back travellers. Dada Kafe is the perfect location for any time of the day, but its healthy breakfast selection and fresh fruits make it truly outstanding.
The Canteen is located just down the road from the UN Irish Pub and is known for its diverse selection of mouthwatering tapas. The selection of tapas is constantly changing, with fresh ingredients and preparation. Its range of beer and wine is exceptional and makes for the perfect ending to a hot day on the road. The service is outstanding and friendly. An absolute must for food lovers in search of unique and tasty nibbles.
Blue Diamond represents another of Chiang Mai’s vegetarian-friendly restaurants, but it stands out from the competition due to its beautiful, natural interior and tasty dishes. A favourite among local yogis and meditators, it offers a variety of healthy Thai dishes and exceptional salads, as well as homemade bread. Next to the restaurant, there is a shop selling fruits and other products. Its variety of vegetarian burgers, as well as its friendly staff make for an outstanding experience.
Ruen Tamarind Restaurant is part of the Tamarind Village Boutique Hotel. This exquisite setting has all the ingredients for a magical night out. Choose to dine inside or alfresco on the pool terrace. Dine in style while having authentic Thai favourites and Lanna Thai specialities. Perfect for a romantic date or for that special occasion.
La Fourchette is a delightful little French restaurant tucked into the Old City. Here, they serve up the best French homemade favourites in a relaxed and cosy atmosphere. If you’re missing wine, this is the perfect spot to enjoy a bottle with your meal, as they have a beautiful selection of wine from France and beyond.
