Best Budget Eats in Chiang Mai, Thailand
1. Kha Soi Khun Yai
A popular spot for Chiang Mai's signature dish - Kha Soi. Offers a generous serving of curry noodles with tender chicken for just a few dollars.
- Affordable Price: Inexpensive yet delicious food, perfect for budget travelers
- Authentic Taste: Experience the true flavors of Northern Thai cuisine
- Convenient Location: Centrally located in the Old City, easily accessible for tourists
2. Gerrick's Cafe & Bakery
Affordable and tasty western-style breakfast options, including bagels and pastries. A popular spot for digital nomads and travelers alike.
- Variety of Western Foods: Wide range of western foods for those missing home-style meals
- Good Wi-fi Connection: Ideal for remote workers and digital nomads seeking a good connection
- Central Location: Located in the heart of Chiang Mai, perfect for exploring other attractions
3. Lam Duan Cafe
A vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurant serving a variety of delicious Thai dishes. Enjoy a healthy meal while supporting sustainable practices.
- Vegetarian & Vegan Options: Perfect for those following vegetarian or vegan diets
- Environmentally Friendly: Support sustainable practices and eco-friendly dining options
- Reasonable Prices: Affordable prices for a guilt-free meal
4. Pork Isan Noodles at Kha Bao Narawat
Try the famous Isaan-style pork noodles at this street food stall. The dish's unique spiciness and savory flavors will leave you craving more.
- Unique Flavor Profile: Experience the distinctive taste of Isaan cuisine
- Street Food Experience: Enjoy a traditional Thai street food experience
- Inexpensive yet Delicious: Taste authentic Thai cuisine without breaking the bank
5. Warorot Market (Kad Luang)
Explore Chiang Mai's bustling market offering a wide variety of local foods, from street food stalls to prepared dishes. A must-visit for foodies and culture enthusiasts alike.
- Wide Variety of Food: Taste different Thai dishes under one roof
- Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions
- Affordable Prices: Budget-friendly options for food lovers
6. Sai Mai Ton Khao Niew
Indulge in a tasty treat with sticky rice wrapped in a banana leaf. This traditional dessert is both affordable and delicious.
- Traditional Dessert: Experience a popular Thai dessert
- Affordable Prices: Delicious and budget-friendly snack
- Unique Presentation: Banana leaf wrapping adds an exotic touch
7. Kha Nang Nueng
Try Chiang Mai's famous fried rice dish - Khao Soi. This eatery offers a large serving of the creamy, flavorful noodle soup at an affordable price.
- Authentic Taste: Experience the true flavors of Khao Soi
- Affordable Price: Inexpensive yet delicious food, perfect for budget travelers
- Variety of Options: Choose from different toppings and spice levels to customize your dish
8. Taipei Dessert House
Satisfy your sweet tooth with Taiwanese-style shaved ice desserts. The colorful and refreshing treats are a perfect escape from the Chiang Mai heat.
- Unique Dessert Experience: Try something new and refreshing
- Affordable Prices: Delicious desserts at budget-friendly prices
- Variety of Flavors: Choose from a variety of flavors and toppings
9. Nimman Food Court
Visit this modern food court for a wide variety of affordable and tasty food options. From Thai street food to international cuisine, there's something for everyone.
- Wide Variety of Food: Taste different cuisines under one roof
- Air-Conditioned Seating: Enjoy your meal in comfort, regardless of the weather
- Affordable Prices: Budget-friendly options for food lovers
10. Tai Yai Cabbages & Flowers
Experience a beautiful cafe offering healthy, organic dishes. Enjoy your meal amidst the serene atmosphere and lush greenery.
- Healthy Food Options: Choose from a variety of nutritious meals
- Organic Ingredients: Support sustainable farming practices
- Gorgeous Ambiance: Relax and unwind in a beautiful, nature-filled setting
11. Takien Thai Restaurant
Enjoy traditional Northern Thai dishes at this cozy and affordable restaurant. The menu features a variety of dishes, from curries to stir-fries.
- Traditional Thai Cuisine: Experience the flavors of Northern Thailand
- Affordable Prices: Budget-friendly options for food lovers
- Homey Atmosphere: Enjoy a comfortable and welcoming dining experience
12. Doi Chaang Coffee Shop
Try organic, fair-trade coffee at this popular shop. The coffee is grown by hill tribe farmers and offers a unique taste experience.
- Fair-Trade Coffee: Support ethical farming practices
- Organic Ingredients: Enjoy a cup of coffee made with organic ingredients
- Unique Taste Experience: Taste the difference in a cup of ethically-sourced coffee
13. Boy Petch's Street Food Stall
Try Sai Oua (Northern Thai sausage) at this famous street food stall. The unique flavor and spice combination are sure to delight your taste buds.
- Unique Flavor Profile: Experience the distinctive taste of Sai Oua
- Street Food Experience: Enjoy a traditional Thai street food experience
- Inexpensive yet Delicious: Taste authentic Thai cuisine without breaking the bank
14. Baan Din Nampueng
Experience the famous Khan Toke dinner show. Enjoy a traditional Northern Thai meal while watching traditional performances.
- Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions
- Authentic Taste: Taste traditional Northern Thai dishes
- Entertainment Value: Enjoy a captivating dinner show as part of the experience
15. Santisuk Modern Thai Cooking School
Learn to cook traditional Thai dishes at this popular cooking school. Take home new recipes and skills for your own kitchen.
- Hands-on Learning Experience: Learn the art of Thai cooking through hands-on instruction
- Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in Thai culture and learn about local ingredients
- Delicious Meal Included: Enjoy the fruits of your labor as part of the learning experience