Discovering the Best Street Food in Chiang Mai Old Town

There’s no denying that street food is a huge part of the Thai culinary experience. The vibrant city of Chiang Mai is no exception, with street vendors lining the streets of the Old Town, offering an array of delicious and authentic dishes to try. From sweet and savory snacks to hearty meals, the street food scene in Chiang Mai is a foodie’s paradise. In this article, we’ll explore the best street food in Chiang Mai Old Town, giving you an insider’s guide to the must-try dishes.

🍜 Top 15 Must-Try Street Food in Chiang Mai Old Town 🍜

1. Khao Soi

Khao Soi is a classic Northern Thai dish that consists of egg noodles in a curry broth, topped with crispy noodles and served with lime, shallots, and pickled cabbage. This dish is a must-try when visiting Chiang Mai and can be found at almost every street food vendor in the Old Town.

2. Pad Thai

Pad Thai is a popular stir-fried noodle dish that has become a worldwide favorite. In Chiang Mai, you’ll find street vendors serving up their own unique version of the dish, with variations like seafood and vegetarian options available.

3. Som Tam (Papaya Salad)

Som Tam is a refreshing and spicy salad made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, and chili. It’s a popular street food in Chiang Mai and can be found at almost every street vendor.

4. Moo Ping (Grilled Pork Skewers)

Moo Ping is a popular Thai street food that consists of marinated pork skewers grilled to perfection. It’s a tasty and convenient snack that’s perfect for eating on the go.

5. Kai Yang (Grilled Chicken)

Kai Yang is a popular street food in Thailand, and you’ll find it on almost every street corner in Chiang Mai. It’s grilled chicken that’s marinated in a flavorful mix of spices and served with sticky rice and som tam.

6. Khao Kha Moo (Braised Pork Leg with Rice)

Khao Kha Moo is a classic Thai pork dish that’s slow-cooked in a flavorful broth until the meat is tender and juicy. It’s served with rice and a boiled egg, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.

7. Gai Tod (Fried Chicken)

Gai Tod is a popular Thai street food that consists of crispy fried chicken. It’s often served with sticky rice and a spicy dipping sauce, making it a delicious and filling snack.

8. Sai Oua (Northern Thai Sausage)

Sai Oua is a Northern Thai sausage that’s made with ground pork, lemongrass, and various spices. It’s grilled to perfection and often served with sticky rice and a spicy dipping sauce.

9. Kanom Krok (Coconut Rice Pancakes)

Kanom Krok is a sweet and savory snack made with coconut milk and rice flour, cooked in a special pan until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s a popular street food that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

10. Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiao (Spicy Noodle Soup)

Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiao is a noodle soup that’s famous in Northern Thailand. It’s made with pork broth, tomato paste, and chili, giving it a spicy kick. It’s often served with pork blood cubes and bean sprouts, making it a unique and flavorful dish.

11. Kao Tom (Rice Soup)

Kao Tom is a comforting and filling rice soup that’s often served for breakfast in Thailand. It’s made with rice, ground pork, and ginger, giving it a delicious and fragrant flavor.

12. Roti (Indian-Style Pancakes)

Roti is a popular Indian snack that’s made with flour, water, and oil. In Chiang Mai, you’ll find street vendors serving up sweet and savory variations of the dish, with toppings like banana and Nutella or egg and cheese.

13. Thong Yip (Sweet Egg Yolk Dessert)

Thong Yip is a traditional Thai dessert made with egg yolks and sugar, giving it a sweet and delicate flavor. It’s often served at festivals and special occasions, but you can find it at some street food vendors in Chiang Mai Old Town.

14. Khao Niao Mamuang (Mango Sticky Rice)

Khao Niao Mamuang is a popular Thai dessert that’s made with sticky rice, fresh mango, and coconut milk. It’s a sweet and refreshing treat that’s perfect for ending a spicy meal.

15. Tub Tim Krob (Red Ruby Dessert)

Tub Tim Krob is a popular Thai dessert that’s made with water chestnuts, red food coloring, and coconut milk. It’s a sweet and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for cooling down on a hot day.

🍽️ Best Street Food Vendors in Chiang Mai Old Town 🍽️

1. Chang Phueak Market

Chang Phueak Market is a popular night market in Chiang Mai that’s known for its street food vendors. You’ll find everything from Khao Soi to grilled chicken here, as well as fresh fruit smoothies and Thai sweets.

2. Warorot Market

Warorot Market is a bustling market in the heart of Chiang Mai that’s famous for its food vendors. Here you’ll find a wide variety of street food, including grilled pork skewers, som tam, and kanom krok.

3. Tha Pae Walking Street Market

Tha Pae Walking Street Market is a popular weekend market that’s known for its street food vendors. You’ll find everything from pad Thai to mango sticky rice here, as well as handmade crafts and souvenirs.

4. Kalare Night Bazaar

Kalare Night Bazaar is a popular night market in Chiang Mai that’s known for its street food vendors. Here you’ll find everything from Khao Soi to fried chicken, as well as live music and entertainment.

5. Chang Klan Night Market

Chang Klan Night Market is a popular night market located on the famous Chang Klan Road. Here you’ll find a wide variety of street food vendors, as well as clothing and souvenir stalls.

🤔 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 🤔

1. Is street food safe to eat in Chiang Mai?

Yes, street food in Chiang Mai is generally safe to eat. However, it’s always important to use your judgment and choose vendors that look clean and hygienic.

2. How much does street food cost in Chiang Mai?

Street food in Chiang Mai is generally very affordable, with most dishes costing between 30 and 100 baht (less than $3 USD).

3. What should I try if I’m a vegetarian?

There are plenty of vegetarian options available in Chiang Mai, including pad Thai, som tam, and khao soi made with tofu instead of meat.

4. What time do street food vendors open in Chiang Mai?

Street food vendors in Chiang Mai typically open in the late afternoon and stay open until late at night.

5. What is the best time to visit Chiang Mai for street food?

The best time to visit Chiang Mai for street food is during the cooler months, from November to February.

6. Can I haggle with street food vendors in Chiang Mai?

No, haggling is not common with street food vendors in Chiang Mai. The prices are usually fixed.

7. What should I do if I get sick from street food in Chiang Mai?

If you get sick from street food in Chiang Mai, it’s important to stay hydrated and seek medical attention if necessary. You can also try eating plain rice or bananas to help settle your stomach.

📝 Conclusion 📝

Chiang Mai Old Town is a foodie’s paradise, with street food vendors lining the streets offering an array of delicious and authentic dishes to try. From savory snacks to hearty meals, there’s something for everyone in Chiang Mai. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, be sure to explore the street food scene in Chiang Mai Old Town and experience the flavors of Thailand like a local.

So go ahead and indulge in the flavors of Chiang Mai’s street food scene. It’s an experience you won’t forget!

Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on the author’s personal experience and