Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Chiang Mai, Thailand

1. Khao Soi

Delicious Northern Thai curry noodle dish made with coconut milk and crispy noodles. Try it at Khao Soi Pradap Mok.

Authentic Experience: Family-run restaurant known for its traditional recipe
Unique Taste: A harmonious blend of spicy curry and creamy coconut milk
Convenient Location: Located in the heart of Chiang Mai's old city

Spicy Northern Thai sausage made with lemongrass and galangal. Try it at Khao Kha Moo Pradap Mok.

Flavorful Ingredients: Infused with aromatic spices for an extraordinary taste
Cultural Significance: A dish deeply rooted in Lanna culture
Vibrant Atmosphere: Enjoy the lively and authentic setting of a local eatery

Slow-cooked pork leg dish served with rice. Visit Warorot Market for the best Khao Kha Moo in Chiang Mai.

Khantoke is a traditional Lanna dining experience featuring multiple Northern Thai dishes served on low tables. Enjoy it at Khum Khantoke Restaurant.

Cultural Immersion: Experience the customs and traditions of the Lanna people
Taste Variety: Savor numerous Northern Thai dishes at once
Romantic Setting: Perfect for an unforgettable dinner experience

A mix of ingredients such as betel leaf, lime, chili, peanuts, and shrimp. Try it at Hmong Market.

A fragrant and mildly spicy curry made with pumpkin leaves. Visit Sunday Walking Street Market for this delightful dish.

Seasonal Ingredients: Uses fresh pumpkin leaves, which are abundant in the local area
Community Experience: Support local vendors while enjoying a traditional dish
Health Benefits: Pumpkin leaves are rich in antioxidants and vitamins

A unique dish consisting of a pork trotter with rice noodles. Try it at Tha Phae Gate's street food stalls.

Grilled minced meat wrapped in bamboo. Find it at Anantha Coffee House.

Cooking Method: The bamboo is charcoal grilled, giving the dish a smoky flavor
Cultural Tradition: A traditional Thai hill tribe dish
Vegetarian Option: Available without meat for vegetarians

Grilled chicken marinated in coconut milk and garlic. Try it at Tum Tong's Chicken.

Marinade Flavor: Infused with a rich and creamy coconut milk marinade
Cooking Technique: Grilled to perfection, resulting in tender and juicy meat
Convenient Location: Located along the popular Nimmanhaemin Road

Sweet and creamy dessert made with sticky rice, coconut milk, and ripe mangoes. Enjoy it at Khao Soi Khun Yai.

Traditional Dessert: A beloved Thai dessert that complements the spicy dishes of Northern Thailand
Taste Combination: The sweet and salty flavors create a delicious balance
Seasonal Ingredients: Best enjoyed during the ripe mango season

Spicy green papaya salad. Try it at Warorot Market.

Flavorful Ingredients: Infused with a variety of spices, peanuts, and chilies
Local Market Experience: Participate in the bustling market atmosphere
Health Benefits: Green papaya is rich in antioxidants and vitamins

Grilled pork skewers seasoned with coriander root. Find them at Tha Phae Gate's street food stalls.

Cooking Technique: Grilled to perfection, resulting in tender and flavorful meat
Authentic Experience: Enjoy this street food staple as the locals do
Street Food Adventure: Explore Chiang Mai's famous street food scene

Crispy fried chicken served with sticky rice. Try it at Kao Soy Lam Duan.

Spicy stir-fried minced meat dish served with holy basil. Try it at Night Bazaar's street food stalls.

Spiciness Level: Adjustable to your preferred level of spice
Street Food Adventure: Explore Chiang Mai's famous Night Bazaar while enjoying local cuisine
Cultural Significance: Holy basil is revered in Thai culture, believed to have medicinal properties

Small bowls of spicy and flavorful noodle soup. Try it at Boat Noodle Khao San Road.

Traditional Dish: Originally served on boats in Bangkok, now found in Chiang Mai
Portion Size: Small bowls make it perfect for sampling multiple flavors
Affordable Price: Delicious meal at a reasonable cost