Chiang Mai restaurants

Chiang Mai's culinary scene is a delightful mix of flavors, with a strong emphasis on street food culture. I ate most of my meals at outdoor street markets, where the air is filled with the aroma of grilled meats, spicy noodles, and sweet mango sticky rice. These bustling markets offer a true taste of northern Thai cuisine, with dishes like khao soi and sai ua sausage. I only ate at a sit-down restaurant a couple of times during the span of 4 days, but it was a memorable experience, with a delicious meal that highlighted the city's vibrant and diverse food scene.

Ginger Farm Kitchen: $$$, The restaurant is known for using fresh, organic ingredients sourced directly from its own farm, showcasing the rich flavors of traditional Thai cuisine. My favorite dishes included the perfectly crispy pork belly, with its rich, savory crunch, and the traditional prawn tom yum soup, which was bursting with tangy, aromatic spices. Ginger Farm Kitchen not only offers a farm-to-table experience but also captures the heart of Northern Thai flavors in every bite.

SP Chicken: $, At SP Chicken in Chiang Mai, I enjoyed a homey, casual dining experience that felt like stepping into a local family’s dining room. The highlight here is undoubtedly the rotisserie chicken, which greets you at the door, slow-roasting to crispy perfection. Its tender, juicy meat and smoky flavor make it an absolute must-order. Simple, flavorful, and comforting.

Air Diamond Cafe: $, Located a short drive North of Chiang Mai, grabbing an iced Thai tea at this airplane refurbished into a cafe becomes a playful and fun experience. From the moment you arrive, you order at a ticket booth in the parking lot, just like at an airport. Then, the real adventure begins as you climb the stairs and step inside a life-size airplane to pick up your drink. The café is designed to feel like you're on a flight, with windows framing sky views and seats arranged like a cabin. It’s quirky, Instagrammable, and the iced Thai tea is the perfect refreshment to accompany this unique experience.