Eat and Drink Chiang Mai - Best places!

Local Bites 🥢Chopsticksonthego Chiang Mai Recommendations

Chopsticksonthego is your ticket to the tastiest local bites in Chiang Mai! From charming cafes, mouthwatering grilled meat to roof top cocktails and burgers , we’ve got all the local hotspots covered. Dive into the vibrant street food scene and discover hidden gems in bustling markets—get ready to munch your way through the flavors of this amazing city!

FROG EYE RED CHEEK 🐸🐸 เก๊าบ่ะต๋ากบแก้มแดง 🐸🐸

Super local joint for local bites – the perfect place to sit with the locals and enjoy a Chang or two while you wait for your food. The specialty here is the pork ribs marinated in Thai herbs and flavors, cooked over a charcoal grill for that smoky goodness. The grilled pork collar pairs perfectly with sticky rice, and don’t miss the fermented pork—it’s a must-try! Hot dishes like morning glory and tom yum soup are also incredibly tasty, making this spot a true culinary gem!

Stew Pork Leg in front of Phra Singh Post Office

Street food at its best! This stall will catch your eye with its huge boiling pots of pork trotter, and it’ll capture your heart with the incredible flavors. Their tender pork trotter is served with steamed rice, fresh coriander, a savory steamed egg, and some salted veggies. It’s a satisfying and authentic dish that truly showcases the essence of local cuisine! Say it in Thai: Khao Ka Moooooo – and enjoy local bites the way the locals do!

Lungyeuk หลงเย่ว 龍跃

Sou vide shredded chicken breast on top of a smooth silky chili infused rice vermicelli (a thin form of noodle) what we liked about this dish is the SIMPLICITY and deliciousness. Also, the dumplings here are delicious – little “bags” packing a flavorful mouthful of minced meat and fragrance of pepper! These are the two dishes we highly recommend here! This is not entirely a Thai / or Northern Thai food, but its a reflection of Chiang mai being a melting pot of cultures and food.

Maha Larb CNX

Maha Larb is, in my opinion, the best introduction to Northern Thai food. It offers affordable yet powerful-tasting local bites in small plates, so you can order a variety to sample many dishes. Be sure to try the standout jackfruit curry, the flavorful fermented pork, and the steamed beef with tendon served alongside a zesty galangal chili dip. Each bite is packed with authentic flavors that showcase the region’s culinary delights!

ก๋วยเตี๋ยวตึกร้าง

This charming spot is a true local find, tucked away in a building that looks half-abandoned. An adorable older lady cooks each bowl with care, serving up some of the best beef khao soi you’ll ever taste. The unique setting adds to the experience, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to savor authentic flavors in a cozy atmosphere! You have to come here yourself to feel the local bites vibes and atmostsphere

ร้านข้าวซอยนายใหญ่

Possibly the BEST Khao Soi in CNX. The ingredients—curry paste, coconut milk, turmeric, coriander, and soy sauce—are slowly simmered to create an incredible depth of flavor. Tender chicken drumsticks (or beef/pork) are perfectly slow-cooked in the rich soup, served alongside a colorful array of veggies and spices like onions, shallots, coriander, lime, and pickled vegetables. It’s a must-try dish that captures the essence of Northern Thai cuisine!

Kitchen Hush

Stepping into this gem feels like entering someone’s home, where the welcoming aroma of a typical Japanese restaurant—think fresh fish and soy sauce—hits you as soon as you walk in. It’s our top Japanese find in Chiang Mai! An elderly gentleman expertly slices the fish for the sashimi platter, showcasing his meticulous craft. They serve up fantastic tempura and authentic Japanese dishes that are simply delicious. Highly recommended, but be sure to make a reservation first!

Dinky's BBQ

For a taste of smoked meat that’s a bit different from the usual Chiang Mai street food, head to this laid-back spot that’s all about chill vibes and delicious eats. Their pulled pork and beef brisket are absolute must-tries, and the smoked beans with pork? Simply amazing! Don’t miss out on the tacos—super yummy and packed with flavor. Trust me, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu here; it’s totally worth every baht! Find the location here.

Port Twenty-Two

Port Twenty Two is a chill escape from the city buzz, where the friendly staff always makes you feel welcome. You’ve got to try their amazing Hawaiian burger consisting of a special curry sauce over pork patty and served with a slice of pineapple; and the best part? You can build your own with over twenty fresh toppings! It’s a great spot for a relaxed dinner where you can unwind and enjoy some seriously tasty bites.

On The Rock @NamPhrae

On the Rock may be a bit of a distance from downtown Chiang Mai, but it’s absolutely worth the ride! Imagine a camping vibe with a charcoal grill sizzling thick-cut pork collar, creating a delicious and laid-back dinner experience. With great music playing in the background and a stunning sunset over the mountains, it’s the perfect spot for a chill evening that feels like a mini getaway!

คน ระ ยำ - Kon Ra Yum เจริญเมือง

This cozy jazz bar is the perfect spot for good vibes and live music, featuring performances from Thursday to Sunday. The menu offers a delightful selection of small plates, allowing you to sample a variety of flavors and enjoy a satisfying dining experience while soaking in the smooth sounds of jazz. *Bonus tip: its just below Building A cafe and Me&Bacon Nawarat – a nice way to unwind after reading or working in the cafe upstairs!

Hotel YaYee Roof top Bar

We didn’t stay here, but we made our way to the rooftop bar—and wow, was it worth it! The sunset over Doi Suthep was absolutely breathtaking, easily the best we’ve seen in Chiang Mai. Pair that with incredible cocktails, and it was a night to remember. The drinks were crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients, and the flavors were nothing short of professional. Plus, happy hour offers amazing value for cocktails this well-made. We highly recommend trying the Farang Sour and the Negroni—they were our absolute favorites!

Paper Butter on the roof

a charming two-story spot, with the top floor offering an alfresco rooftop experience featuring stunning sunset and mountain views. Perfect for a laid-back evening, this gem boasts a wide selection of drinks and mouthwatering burgers. We’re especially fond of their juicy pork chops served with rich gravy and crispy fries—an absolute must-try

Me&Bacon Nawarat

This spot is a bacon lover’s paradise, serving up mouthwatering dishes that are guaranteed to satisfy! Picture a fluffy waffle topped with a thick slice of crispy bacon, drizzled with rich maple syrup, or dive into their decadent carbonara loaded with generous cuts of smoky bacon. It’s the ultimate destination for a brunch or lunch that will leave you craving more! *Bonus tip: its connected to Building A cafe – and just upstairs of Kon Ra Yum!

Bonnie's Deli, Chiang Mai

Bonnie’s Deli, you can’t miss the roast beef sandwich served on fresh sourdough. It’s loaded with crispy shallots and a creamy mix of cream cheese and mayo that takes it to the next level. This is definitely not your usual street food, but it’s worth every baht for a satisfying meal that you’ll want to come back for!

If you’re searching for food in Chiang Mai, you’ll find endless options to satisfy every craving. From discovering the best places to eat and exploring local food bites to diving into comprehensive Chiang Mai food guides, this city has something for everyone. Must-try dishes like Khao Soi can be found at both street food stalls and fine dining restaurants, while vegetarian and vegan food lovers will appreciate the abundance of plant-based cafes. For those seeking the best coffee shops or unique farm-to-table experiences, Chiang Mai doesn’t disappoint. Whether you’re on the hunt for local bites, cheap eats, hidden food gems, or traditional Northern Thai cuisine, Chiang Mai’s culinary scene is sure to leave you satisfied. Don’t miss the night market for an authentic street food experience or consider joining a Chiang Mai food tour to uncover the city’s top spots.

Chiang Mai is truly a digital nomad’s heaven, offering an abundance of cozy spots to work and relax. I recently wrote a blog post featuring the Top 3 Cafes to Work in Chiang Mai, highlighting some of the best chill spaces for productivity. These cafes not only serve exceptional coffee but also provide a welcoming environment with comfortable seating, reliable Wi-Fi, and a relaxed vibe. Whether you’re tackling your to-do list or simply soaking in the laid-back atmosphere, these spots are perfect for anyone looking to combine work with leisure

Eat and Drink Chiang Mai – Best places!