A Journey Through the Best Chiang Mai Food Experiences
Chiang Mai is more than just stunning temples and breathtaking mountain scenery—it’s a food lover’s paradise. The northern Thai city is a melting pot of flavors, offering everything from fragrant noodle soups to smoky grilled meats and herb-infused sausages. Whether you're wandering through a Chiang Mai market, dining at a hidden local eatery, or hopping on a Vespa for a culinary adventure, there's no shortage of delicious discoveries.
For an immersive food experience, the Chiang Mai After Dark tour takes you to the city’s best street food spots, where you can sample local favorites under the neon lights.
Let’s dive into five must-try local dishes that define Chiang Mai food and make it one of Thailand’s most exciting culinary destinations.
1. Khao Soi – Chiang Mai’s Most Iconic Dish
When it comes to Chiang Mai food, Khao Soi is king. This flavorful, coconut-based curry noodle dish is a must-try for anyone visiting northern Thailand. Made with rich, creamy broth, tender slow-cooked chicken or beef, and topped with crispy fried noodles, it’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Served with pickled mustard greens, raw shallots, and a squeeze of lime, Khao Soi is best enjoyed at a small roadside eatery or bustling Chiang Mai market, where locals have been perfecting the dish for generations.
Where to Try It: Head to Khao Soi Lam Duan or Khao Soi Khun Yai for an authentic bowl of this northern specialty.
2. Som Tam – The Perfect Thai Food Appetizer
Although Som Tam (green papaya salad) originates from Thailand’s northeast, it has found a devoted following in Chiang Mai. This dish is an explosion of flavors, blending shredded green papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, and dried shrimp with a dressing of lime juice, fish sauce, garlic, and fiery chilies.
For an even more local twist, try Tam Sua, which adds fermented fish sauce for an extra umami kick. Whether you like it mild or tongue-scorchingly spicy, Som Tam is a refreshing and bold dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats.
Where to Try It: Visit a bustling Chiang Mai market like Warorot Market or the Sunday Walking Street Market for freshly made Som Tam.
3. Kai Yang – Thai Grilled Chicken Done Right
Few things are as irresistible as the smoky, charred aroma of Kai Yang (grilled Thai chicken) sizzling over an open flame. This dish is marinated with garlic, coriander, fish sauce, and lemongrass before being grilled to perfection, resulting in juicy, flavorful meat with a crisp, golden skin.
Typically served with sticky rice and Nam Jim Jaew, a spicy-sour dipping sauce, Kai Yang is a street food staple that perfectly showcases the bold flavors of Thai food.
Where to Try It: Try Kai Yang at SP Chicken, a legendary spot in Chiang Mai known for its perfectly roasted whole chickens.
4. Khao Kha Mu – Slow-Braised Pork Leg Over Rice
For comfort food lovers, Khao Kha Mu (braised pork leg over rice) is the ultimate soul-warming dish. The pork leg is slowly stewed in a rich, fragrant broth made with star anise, cinnamon, and soy sauce until it becomes incredibly tender. Served over jasmine rice and topped with pickled mustard greens and a hard-boiled egg, this dish is a delicious balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.
You’ll often find vendors at Chiang Mai markets slicing up tender portions of Khao Kha Mu, served fresh on a steaming bed of rice.
Where to Try It: The famous Cowboy Hat Lady at Chang Phueak Night Market serves one of the best versions in town.
5. Northern Thai Sausage – Sai Ua’s Bold Flavors
A trip to Chiang Mai isn’t complete without trying Sai Ua, the region’s signature northern Thai sausage. This dish is packed with bold flavors, thanks to its fragrant mix of lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chili. Unlike other sausages, Sai Ua is bursting with herbal, spicy goodness in every bite.
It’s best enjoyed hot off the grill, sliced into bite-sized pieces and served with sticky rice and fresh herbs. The sausage’s rich flavors make it the perfect street food snack or an accompaniment to a cold local beer.
Where to Try It: Look for vendors selling Sai Ua at the Saturday Wua Lai Walking Street Market or the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.
Experience Chiang Mai’s Food Scene on Two Wheels
Chiang Mai’s vibrant food culture is best experienced on the back of a Vespa, weaving through the city’s bustling streets and hidden alleys to discover its best-kept culinary secrets. Whether you’re indulging in smoky Kai Yang, slurping down a bowl of Khao Soi, or savoring the punchy flavors of Som Tam, each bite tells a story of the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Join Chiang Mai After Dark for an unforgettable night exploring the city’s best street food spots, where you’ll taste authentic local flavors and uncover the hidden gems of northern Thailand.
For a broader adventure, explore all of Thailand Vespa Tours and experience the country’s culture and cuisine like never before.
