8 foods to try in Chiang Mai
1. Khao soi
Chiang Mai’s signature dish: egg noodles in a rich, coconut-based curry broth, topped with slow-cooked chicken or beef, crispy noodles and a squeeze of lime. Khao Soi Khun Yai is known for its deep, smoky flavour.
2. Sai oua
This coarse-grilled sausage is a northern Thai essential, made with minced pork, lemongrass, lime leaves, galangal and fiery chilli. Slightly tangy, try it sliced as a snack at Warorot Market, or grilled whole at Tong Tem Toh.
3. Nam prik ong
A chunky relish that combines minced pork, fermented soybean paste, garlic, tomato and dried chilli. Served with crunchy veg and sticky rice, you’ll spot it at Huen Phen or among the array of dips for your roast bird at SP Chicken.
4. Crispy pork belly
Known locally as moo krob, this lunchtime favourite is all about the contrast: melting layers of juicy pork under a blisteringly crisp skin. Try it slow-roasted in a clay oven at Neng’s Claypot Pork with rice and a rich pork bone broth.
5. Khao niaw mamuang
Mango sticky rice is popular across Thailand, but Chiang Mai’s cooler climate brings a special fragrance to its Nam Dok Mai mangoes. Try Mango Tango near the night bazaar, or Mae Varee Fruit Shop for a sweet end to a market ramble.
6. Khao kha moo
Braised pork leg on rice isn’t unique to Chiang Mai, but it has a cult following thanks to the city’s ‘cowgirl hat lady’ at Chang Phuak night market. Her tender pork is served over rice with pickled mustard greens and a soft-boiled egg.
7. Water buffalo larb
Larb is a staple across Thailand, but Chiang Mai’s version is more savoury than sour and uses water buffalo for a bold, meaty character. Blood, bile or offal may also be added for depth. Adventurous eaters should head to Larb Ton Khao.
8. Roti gluay
A Thai-Muslim favourite found at night stalls across the city, these crisp-fried roti are filled with banana and drizzled with condensed milk. Watch the dough get flipped and spun at Rotee Pa Day, near Tha Phae Gate.
