Top 4 Places to Eat in Mae Hong Son

Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Lorraine Aust, Somchai Boonmee
12/08/2025
A serene sunrise view over a tea plantation with red lanterns in rural Thailand.
KE PHUAH, Pexels

Mae Hong Son's dining scene primarily offers authentic Northern Thai and Shan cuisine, catering to travelers seeking genuine local flavors and a relaxed atmosphere.

1. Mae Hong Son Night Market

Cuisine: Thai Street Food, Northern Thai Specialties

Each evening, the night market transforms into a lively hub by the Nong Chong Kham Lake, offering an array of local dishes. Visitors can find classics like Pad Thai, Papaya Salad, and various minced pork dishes. It provides a peaceful setting to enjoy affordable and diverse street eats.

Price: 30 - 100 THB per dish (approx. $1 - $3 USD)

Getting There: Located by Nong Chong Kham Lake in the city center, it is within walking distance from most accommodations.

2. Salween River Restaurant

Cuisine: Thai, Burmese, Shan

This restaurant offers a blend of Thai and Burmese flavors, with popular dishes including Khao Soi and Burmese tea leaf salad. The portions are generous, and the food is consistently praised for its quality and value. It has a welcoming ambiance, now located in a more natural setting on the outskirts of town.

Price: 80 - 200 THB per dish (approx. $2.50 - $6 USD)

Getting There: Situated along Pradit Jong Kham Road, it has recently relocated to a more natural setting on the outskirts. A short taxi or scooter ride from the town center is recommended, with fares typically around 50-100 THB.

3. Kai Mook Restaurant

Cuisine: Thai, Shan Influences

Set in a charming wooden building, Kai Mook offers a cozy atmosphere for diners. It specializes in local Thai dishes, with a focus on fresh fish from the Pai River, and includes some Shan influences. The service is attentive, and the prices are reasonable, making it a reliable choice for a hearty meal.

Price: 80 - 250 THB per person (approx. $2.50 - $7.50 USD)

Getting There: Located just off Khunlumprapas, it is centrally positioned and easily accessible by foot from the main town area.

4. Bai Fern Restaurant

Cuisine: Thai, Northern Thai

Bai Fern is a well-established restaurant renowned for its authentic Thai cuisine. The atmosphere is refined with white table linens and dark wood, and they use quality ingredients, including organically grown vegetables from their own garden. Live music is often featured in the evenings, adding to the dining experience.

Price: 150 - 400 THB per person (approx. $4.50 - $12 USD)

Getting There: Located before the walking street, opposite the public library, it is easily accessible by foot in the main town area.

Check out our other pages on Mae Hong Son

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