Top 5 Places to Eat in Chiang Rai

Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Lorraine Aust, Somchai Boonmee
12/08/2025
Stunning ornate white temple with dragon sculptures in Chiang Rai, Thailand.
Fernando B M, Pexels

Chiang Rai's culinary landscape features a blend of authentic Northern Thai (Lanna) dishes and international cuisine, served in settings ranging from lively night markets to tranquil riverside establishments, appealing to food enthusiasts, families, and couples alike.

1. Larb Sanam Keela

Cuisine: Northern Thai (Lanna)

Stepping into Larb Sanam Keela provides an authentic taste of Northern Thailand, highly favored by locals. The atmosphere is simple yet welcoming, and it offers a genuine Lanna culinary experience. A must-try is their signature larb, a spicy minced meat salad bursting with fresh herbs, alongside excellent steamed beef (Jeen Neung) served with a galangal chili dip, and perfectly fried fish with garlic. The menu is available in English, and staff can adjust spice levels to preference. It is a fantastic spot to delve into the region’s rich, meat-heavy cuisine.

Price: ฿90-300 per dish (approximately $2.50-$8.50 USD)

Getting There: Located on the eastern side of Chiang Rai, near the stadium area. A taxi from the city center typically takes about 5 minutes and costs around ฿40-50.

2. Chiang Rai Night Bazaar & Saturday Night Walking Street

Cuisine: Thai Street Food

These bustling markets are an essential part of Chiang Rai's social and dining fabric, offering a vibrant atmosphere. One can wander through countless stalls, sampling a vast array of affordable street food. Highlights include classic Northern Thai dishes like Khao Soi and Sai Ua (herbal sausage), alongside Pad Thai, grilled skewers, and fresh mango sticky rice. The communal eating areas, often with live music and cultural performances, create a lively and engaging experience perfect for budget travelers and those seeking a dynamic local evening.

Price: ฿6-100 per dish (approximately $0.15-$3 USD)

Getting There: The Chiang Rai Night Bazaar is centrally located, adjacent to Bus Terminal 1, making it easily walkable from most downtown accommodations. The Saturday Night Walking Street is also in the city center, near the iconic Golden Clock Tower.

3. Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, Bistro & Bar

Cuisine: Thai & Western Fusion, Bakery, Coffee

Nestled on the banks of the tranquil Kok River, this charming establishment feels like a serene escape. Housed in a colonial-style building surrounded by lush gardens, it offers a relaxing ambiance for any meal. The menu features a thoughtful blend of homemade Thai favorites and Western dishes, prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Whether enjoying a leisurely breakfast, afternoon tea with fresh pastries, or a romantic dinner, the picturesque setting and quality fare, such as their pineapple fried rice or a perfectly brewed coffee, make it a memorable experience. Mosquito repellent is often provided for outdoor seating.

Price: ฿150-350+ per dish (approximately $4.25-$10+ USD)

Getting There: Situated on the outskirts of downtown Chiang Rai along the Kok River. It is a scenic 5-minute walk from the Blue Temple or a 15-minute bicycle ride from the city center. Taxis are readily available for transport.

4. Favola at Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort

Cuisine: Italian

For a truly upscale dining experience, Favola offers authentic Italian cuisine within the elegant setting of Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort. The restaurant boasts world-class service and stunning views overlooking the Kok River, making it ideal for special occasions or a luxurious treat. Expect classic Italian dishes like delectable four-cheese pizza, rich truffle pasta, and fresh seafood linguine. The ambiance is refined, yet welcoming for couples and families seeking a sophisticated meal.

Price: Up to ฿1,000 per person (approximately $28 USD+)

Getting There: Located within Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort, which is outside the main city center. Access is best via taxi or ride-hailing services. The resort may also offer shuttle services for guests.

5. Roti Pa Yai

Cuisine: Thai Muslim, Halal

Roti Pa Yai provides a unique and affordable culinary experience, specializing in Thai Muslim cuisine. The open-air, country-style setting offers a relaxed atmosphere on the east side of the city. Their expertise lies in freshly prepared roti, both sweet and savory, which are a must-try. The roti mataba gai, a chicken-stuffed roti, pairs perfectly with their flavorful chicken curry (gaeng gari gai). It is a cherished spot for those seeking delicious, authentic halal options and a taste of local community life.

Price: ฿50-150 per dish (approximately $1.50-$4.25 USD)

Getting There: Found in a quiet Muslim community on the eastern side of Chiang Rai, it is approximately a 5-minute drive or short taxi ride from the city center.

Check out our other pages on Chiang Rai

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