7 Best Restaurants in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Lampang native Achareeya Chapin studied baking and pastry at the Culinary Institute of America and worked at a highly acclaimed restaurant in Napa Valley before returning home to set up shop here, on a sleepy little river evoking the feeling of times gone by. Achareeya has since gone on to open Wildthyme in Bangkok, but her sister Fon keeps the shop running, offering a selection of Thai and Western dishes, all prepared to perfection. Leave room for dessert.

The cuisine is eclectic Thai, with ingredients sourced from Ginger's own farm on the outskirts of Chiang Mai, at this vibrant Thai bistro decorated with vintage furniture, large patterned cushions, and hanging plants. Nothing is too-too spicy, and everything—including rich curries, refreshing salads, and vegetable-packed summer rolls—is served in pretty ceramic bowls and plates.

This simple Thai restaurant sits on the banks of the Wang River, 2 km (1 mile) down the main 1034 highway in the village of Ko Kha. Fresh fish is a daily specialty, but try the plump fish cakes or a crispy version of larb, a popular minced-pork dish.

If you find yourself craving Western fast food, skip the global franchises and make a beeline for this restaurant run by two young Thai siblings, which grew out of a popular food truck. Beast's burgers and beef patties are made with premium-quality ingredients and perfectly cooked. The veggie patty is great, too. Choose from onion rings or fries for the perfect accompaniment.

In a beautiful, traditional, two-story teak house with a balcony overlooking a garden, Dash is one of the Old Town's best midrange restaurants. Guests receive a warm welcome from the Thai mother-son team, who returned to Thailand to open the restaurant after living for many years in the United States. Expect generous servings of classic Thai food from across the country. The khao soi (chicken curry noodle soup), gaeng hang lay (pork curry), and other Lanna specialties stand out. Those not in the mood for Thai can avail themselves of pasta and burgers.

Owned by a Thai-Aussie couple, this cool little café in the Thapae Gate area serves excellent coffee sourced from local roasters, along with hearty breakfasts and healthy Aussie-style sandwiches and salads made with organic ingredients. The breakfast pizza paired with an iced coconut espresso is a treat for those up early with jet lag. There are always several vegetarian and gluten-free options. The café closes at 3:30 pm but occasionally reopens in the evenings for special events such as craft-beer, cocktail, or wine tastings.

There's also a branch on Nimmanhaemin Rd.