From Michelin Bib Gourmand to authentic Khao Soi - discover Northern Thailand's incredible food scene
Chiang Mai has evolved into one of Thailand's premier food destinations, earning recognition from the Michelin Guide with 20 Bib Gourmand restaurants in 2025. The city offers an exceptional blend of authentic Lanna cuisine, famous Khao Soi joints, farm-to-table dining, and diverse international options.
Northern Thai (Lanna) cuisine is distinctly different from central Thai food, featuring unique dishes like Khao Soi (curry noodles), Sai Oua (fermented sausage), Nam Prik Ong (tomato-chili dip), and Gaeng Hang Lay (Burmese-style pork curry). The influence of neighboring Myanmar and Yunnan, China creates flavors you won't find anywhere else in Thailand.
Best of all, dining in Chiang Mai is incredibly affordable, with excellent meals ranging from 50 baht at street stalls to 1,500+ baht at fine dining establishments.
Chiang Mai boasts 20 Bib Gourmand restaurants in the 2025 Michelin Guide, recognizing exceptional quality at reasonable prices. Here are the standout selections:
77 Wichayanon Road
Nearly four decades of serving legendary deep-fried dough sticks (patongko). Each piece is handcrafted with unique shapes, achieving perfect puffiness and crispy texture.
99/11-12 Chang Moi Tat Mai Road
Unique take on Guay Jub (rolled rice noodle soup) featuring Sai Ua sausage in a distinctive peppery broth with crispy pork and tender pork liver.
62 Wangsingkham Road, Riverside
Halal kitchen beside the Ping River, renowned for exceptional beef dishes. Specializes in spicy Thai soups with beef shank packed with aromatic spices.
Hang Dong, hillside location
Hidden hillside gem with stunning mountain views. Michelin Bib Gourmand holder since 2020, serving authentic Thai cuisine with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Old City center
Relaxed dining in the heart of Old City with innovative takes on Northern Thai classics. Quality ingredients and refined presentation without losing authenticity.
Note: Chiang Mai maintained all previous Michelin Bib Gourmand selections in 2025 with no new additions, demonstrating consistent quality across the city's dining scene.
Khao Soi is Chiang Mai's most iconic dish - a rich coconut curry noodle soup topped with crispy noodles. These restaurants are legendary among locals and expats for serving the best versions.
The most famous Khao Soi in Chiang Mai, featured on Netflix's "Somebody Feed Phil". Phil Rosenthal called it "a khao soi we could eat everyday."
Expat favorite with bold, spicy broth that's rich in coconut milk without being too creamy. Exceptional noodles that are springy, chewy, and tender.
TripAdvisor favorite serving "the place for authentic Khao Soi" according to countless reviews. Incredibly affordable without compromising quality.
Michelin recommended local favorite. So good that visitors return 5-6 times during short trips, with some eating here twice in one day.
Muslim Thai family serving the most authentic version of original Khao Soi introduced by Chinese Yunnanese Muslim traders. Halal certified.
Over 40 years of excellence. Beloved by locals and tourists for homemade-style food from old family recipes. Serves possibly the best Khao Soi in Chiang Mai.
Riverside location with stunning views and chill ambiance. Perfect for travelers seeking authentic flavors off the beaten path.
Bold and intense Khao Soi with deeply flavorful curry broth that's heavily spiced and rich with oil - for those who like maximum flavor impact.
Pro Tip: Khao Soi is traditionally eaten in the morning or early afternoon. Most authentic shops close by 3-4 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.
Experience traditional Northern Thai cuisine in atmospheric settings. These restaurants preserve centuries-old recipes and cooking techniques unique to the Lanna Kingdom.
17km southeast of Old City (30-min drive)
Recommended by renowned Thai chefs David Thompson and Andy Ricker as their top pick for authentic Lanna cuisine. Set in an atmospheric old wooden house.
Nimmanhaemin area
The most popular choice among young Thais for best and most affordable Lanna food. Located in trendy Nimman. Expect queues during peak hours.
Ratchamankha Road, Old City
40+ years of excellence in the Old City. Perfect for authentic Lanna food without straying far. Packed at lunch with locals and tourists.
Traditional teak house near Nimman
Charming traditional teak wood house in a local neighborhood. Serves some of the most authentic Lanna food in an atmospheric setting.
Old City
Beautiful restaurant in the Old City serving refined Northern Thai cuisine worth seeking out. Elevated presentation with authentic flavors.
InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping
Upscale hotel restaurant serving authentic Northern cuisine using traditional recipes and cooking styles. Fresh organic ingredients from Royal Projects.
Chiang Mai's farm-to-table movement emphasizes sustainable, organic ingredients sourced from local farms and Royal Projects. Perfect for health-conscious expats.
Pioneer of farm-to-table in Chiang Mai. Three young food lovers grow produce on-site and serve inspired organic meals. You can also buy fresh produce.
New menu launched Sept 2025 focusing on zero waste and low emissions. Spectacular rooftop views with ingredients from Rong Khum and SEED organic farms.
Excellent farm-to-city concept with fresh, home-cooked food using trusted organic and free-range ingredients. Located in trendy One Nimman complex.
More than a restaurant - an organic farm, seed-saving initiative, and sustainable living center. Peaceful countryside setting with authentic farm experience.
Plant-based restaurant supporting sustainable community agriculture. Their organic farm provides annual rice needs and primary source of peanuts and onions.
Chiang Mai's upscale dining scene offers exceptional quality at prices well below Bangkok or Western standards. These restaurants deliver world-class experiences.
Riverside with panoramic Ping River views
Contemporary International
Chiang Mai's premier fine dining with Michelin recognition. Voted Best Restaurant in Chiang Mai with stunning panoramic river views.
Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel
Authentic Italian
Featured in Michelin Guide 2022-2025. Premium Italian ingredients combined with fresh locally sourced produce for authentic, flavor-filled dishes.
Anantara Resort (former British Consulate)
Colonial-inspired Fine Dining
Set in the historic former British Consulate building at Anantara Resort. Colonial elegance meets contemporary cuisine.
Central Chiang Mai
Modern Lanna
Chefs from Michelin-starred Saawaan (Bangkok) putting modern twists on traditional Lanna cuisine. Innovative approach to Northern Thai heritage.
Nimman area
French Fine Dining
Award-winning French restaurant with multiple accolades. Classic French techniques with premium ingredients in elegant setting.
Ping Riverside
Modern International
Sophisticated riverside dining with modern international menu. Beautiful river views combine with exceptional cuisine.
Chiang Mai's large expat community has created demand for authentic international cuisine. From Italian to Japanese, you'll find genuine flavors from around the world.
Italian
Michelin Guide recommended (2022-2025). Authentic Italian with premium imported ingredients and house-made pastas.
Italian
Decades-old beloved establishment run by descendants of Chiang Mai's oldest Italian restaurant. Authentic pastas, pizzas, and meat dishes.
Italian
Wide selection of Italian cuisine including pastas, fish dishes, pizza and salads. Comfortable indoor and outdoor seating.
Japanese
Cozy, authentic Japanese in the heart of Old City. Hidden retreat serving truly authentic Japanese flavors in peaceful atmosphere.
Japanese
Exceptional authentic Japanese with numerous awards. Famous for Salmon Sashimi, Kurobuta Pork, and premium wagyu beef.
Japanese
Multiple high-quality sushi restaurants throughout Chiang Mai offering "the best sushi in Chiang Mai" according to local reviews.
Street stalls, local markets, and authentic neighborhood restaurants
Casual dining, cafes, and neighborhood restaurants with AC
Quality restaurants, upscale casual, and hotel dining
Michelin-recognized, luxury hotel restaurants, and premium dining
Authentic Lanna cuisine, traditional Khao Soi shops, and temple-area local restaurants
Trendy international restaurants, farm-to-table dining, upscale casual, and fine dining
Scenic dining along the Ping River with mix of Thai and international options
Local neighborhood with authentic street food and budget-friendly restaurants
Famous for Chang Puak Gate night market and authentic Northern food
Hillside restaurants with mountain views, farm-to-table, and destination dining
• Michelin and fine dining restaurants require advance booking (1-3 days)
• Popular Khao Soi shops don't take reservations - arrive early
• Most casual restaurants welcome walk-ins
• Sunday evenings are busiest due to Walking Street market
• Street stalls and local restaurants: cash only
• Mid-range and up: credit cards widely accepted
• Tipping: 10% at fine dining, round up at casual spots
• Service charge often included at upscale venues
• Khao Soi: 10 AM - 2 PM (many close by 3 PM)
• Lunch specials: 11:30 AM - 2 PM (best value)
• Dinner: 6 PM - 9 PM (peak hours)
• Night markets: 5 PM - 11 PM
• Many vegetarian and vegan options available
• Say "mai sai nam pla" (no fish sauce) for vegan dishes
• Halal restaurants: Khao Soi Islam, Sanae Thai Cuisine
• Gluten-free: Rice-based dishes are naturally GF