The Best Burger Joints in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Local insiders point you in the right direction when youre in the mood for a burger in Chiang Mai
Local insiders point you in the right direction when you're in the mood for a burger in Chiang Mai | © VanVang / Alamy Stock Photo
Daisy Dobson

Tom yum, khao soi, phat kaphrao and pad thai – there’s no doubt that Thai food is amongst the tastiest in the world. But sometimes only a juicy, cheesy, perfectly cooked burger will do, so if you’ve been struck by a mid-trip craving, we’ve got you covered. Here’s the definitive list of the best burgers in Chiang Mai from our local insiders.

1. Burger Box

Food Truck, American

Sometimes you just want a burger, and nothing else will do. Though Chiang Mai’s Ploen Ruedee Night Market offers plenty of traditional local food, it’s also where you’ll find Burger Box serving up juicy fare made from fresh ingredients, including the essential fries, bacon, cheese and other extras. You’ll find a show performed every night at the market, so your entertainment is covered, too. Recommended by local insider Troi Williams

2. The Duke’s

Restaurant, American, Italian, European, Gluten-free

Western restaurant in Chiang Mai, Thailand
© VanVang / Alamy Stock Photo

The Duke’s has lived just across the street from the Ping River for years, and it’s long been on the radar of locals and visitors looking for international fare in Chiang Mai. Pizzas and steak jostle for space with burgers and seafood specialities – so you won’t leave hungry. With space indoors and outdoors, it’s a great spot to get the gang together over some good old-fashioned comfort food. Recommended by local insider Dan Edel

3. Corner Bistro

Gastropub, Restaurant, Italian, Steakhouse, American

If you’re in the up-and-coming area of Santitham and looking for a good time, head to the Corner Bistro. This place loves any excuse for a themed night – from Halloween to Valentine’s Day – and the team behind it love a party. Hip-hop nights are frequent and popular with those looking for a boogie, while the menu has an eclectic mix of international dishes, from a chicken parmesan sub to fried wontons – all best enjoyed with a chilled beer. Recommended by local insider Troi Williams

5. Arno’s Chiang Mai

Bar, Restaurant, European, American

You’d be forgiven for thinking world travel has reached its peak when you visit Arno’s. A French-owned, American-style, dry-aged burger joint in the heart of Chiang Mai. Isn’t life a gift? Tender, juicy and flavourful meat in soft, homemade buns is served with fries just as they should be. Steak lovers can choose their meat from the refrigerated cabinet, and the chef will cook it up just how you like it. The mac and cheese is worth a shout out, too. Recommended by local insider Mattia Miani

6. Rock Me Burgers and Bar

Restaurant, American, Pub Grub, Wine, Beer, Fast Food

Chiang Mai satisfies all kinds of food cravings, even if you’re in search of a classic burger and fries. Step inside the dynamic space of Rock Me Burgers & Bar, a restaurant that serves a variety of treats. Curly fries with dollops of cheese, crispy onion rings in a basket and the ever-popular Original Burger are some of the items you’ll find here. The spacious interiors, comfortable seating and vibrant ambience make it a popular spot.

7. Beast Burger

Restaurant, Fast Food, Thai, American

Beast Burger serves glorious buns that capture real American flavours in every bite. This food truck is a gourmet spot, ideal for meat lovers, offering some of the juiciest burgers in Chiang Mai. Using fresh ingredients, the truck cooks patties with an assortment of spices. The beautifully crafted menu includes the popular BBQ pulled-pork burger.

8. Kafé 1985

Restaurant, European, Asian, Thai, Fusion, Vegetarian

Found on the corner of Moon Muang Road, Kafé 1985 is a restaurant where customers can enjoy a well-cooked meal of baked potatoes, mashed ham and butter-drenched burgers. Grab a bottle of Leo’s dark beer as you enjoy some sumptuous food at this local pub. It’s a popular place and is often crowded with expats and local professionals.

9. The Little Cook Cafe

Cafe, Restaurant, European, American

When owner Kirby isn’t skateboarding, farming or teaching at university, he is in the kitchen creating beautiful dishes for the good people of Chiang Mai from his open-air restaurant. This place is pretty unique. Pizza, pasta and salad classics sit alongside crab spaghetti and pork tenderloin. The burgers, inexplicably, come with crisps and a slice of watermelon. We’re not complaining. Recommended by local insider Mattia Miani

10. Wild Hog Saloon

Pub, Restaurant, American

Treasured by expats of Chiang Mai, the Wild Hog Saloon has been voted best burger by local foodies for two years on the trot. Years of research and development go into the food here, including six months developing the perfect crispy-on-the-outside and fluffy-on-the-inside chips. Just ask owner Gaz, and he’ll gladly talk you through it. Recommended by local insider Mattia Miani

This is an update of the article by Naintara Gurung.

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