Chang Mai Restaurants and Things to do

[reflections]

hi guys
spending two days in CM with my girl friend (GG) next week and thought some of you may have suggestions for resturants (authentic Thai only) and things to do (other than an elephant ride). staying at the Chedi Hotel. Thanks

[lblavr]

some of the best thai food (where I spend every 2nd evening) "the good view" restaurant on the river..
another excellent one "the old house"
enjoy

[Bumpa STIKKA]

I've never been but Olay are promising ourselves that this year we will take a train there and explore it.

Good luck, reflectionsgold...

Pass on your tips when you get back!

[koykaeng]

Can recommend the following;

Food Centre at Kalare Night Bazaar
Address: 89/2, Chang Klan Rd, Night Bazaar, Chiang Mai, 50200

Whilst it's a tourist spot, and you purchase coupons, I've always found the food great. They have a food court of stallholders each selling their own specialties including plenty of Thai standards.   I've had some of the most simple, yet enjoyable Thai meals here, and at around 30 - 40 Baht per plate, its superb value.

Despite eating in a Michelin starred restaurant a couple of nights earlier, I still found my meal here completely satisfying.

Soi Anusarn (Market)
Located just off Chang Klan Rd, there are some great places to eat here, especially Thai inspired seafood.  If the food court option is too casual, then Soi Anusarn is a little more standard restaurant, although certainly a long way from fine dining.

The places I've suggested are good options for taking Thai folks.

I subscribe to the theory its a waste of time taking them to anywhere fancy or upmarket, as they just don't appreciate it.

If you do want a more refined, romantic dinner, there are some nice places located directly on the river.

Some more suggestions here;

http://www.1stopchiangmai.com/hospitality/restaurants/



A couple of photos showing Kalare Food Centre below.

[Bumpa STIKKA]

Great post, koykaeng.

[Torurot]

So the Farang chick has her hand between her legs?

[thegame925]

Do The Elephant Camp that is the furthest away from the town - the one that is 1 hour 15 minutes rather than the one that is 40 minutes away - it is bigger and better.

The Tiger Sanctuary is OK - but not as good as the Tiger Temple that is a few hours outside Bangkok, but your GF can cuddle the tiger cubs at the Chiang Mai Tiger Sanctuary.

Visit the Chiang Mai Mandarin Oriental and walk the grounds - It is only managed by the Mandarin Group, nor owned by them - it was built by an eccentric billionaire and is worth a visit.

[moe666]

The restrurant on top of Hillside Plaza and Condo has great food and good music.

Montiel hotel and restrurant by thape gate has very good food and music at night.

There are some very good Thai places around town but do not know names because Thai friends take me there.

Dukes by the river is also very good American food with big portions.

Take a boat ride at night this comes with food make reservation early, ask tut-tut driver and he can take you there in the day and you can make reservation.

Maddogs south of Thape gate is good the barbecue sandwich is bad and comes with potato salad

[moe666]

The maddog sandwich isn't bad not bad sorry about that

[Guest]

(koykaeng @ Mar. 11 2011,18:53) Can recommend the following;

Food Centre at Kalare Night Bazaar
Address: 89/2, Chang Klan Rd, Night Bazaar, Chiang Mai, 50200

Whilst it's a tourist spot, and you purchase coupons, I've always found the food great. They have a food court of stallholders each selling their own specialties including plenty of Thai standards.   I've had some of the most simple, yet enjoyable Thai meals here, and at around 30 - 40 Baht per plate, its superb value.

I'd be inclined to give the food stalls at that Night Bazaar a swerve with some of those deaths in Chiang Mai seemingly related to the place

Andrew Drummond's updated article

[pacman]

     FAAAARRK!!

I had not heard about it but 6 deaths between January 11th & February 19th would make me want to give the whole place a miss until they trace the source of this infection.

Here's part of the above article:

Myocarditis is a well known illness that may result from many possible etiologies such as viral infection, bacterial infection and toxins and can be found everywhere from time to time. However, four cases among young healthy adults in the same location is rare. The Department of Disease Control will continue its intensive investigation and collaborate with the WHO, IHR authorities and embassy contact persons of the USA, France and New Zealand to determine the causes of myocarditis in all these cases, which may be of the same or of different etiologies.
           While the causes of the illnesses remain unknown at this time, travelers are recommended to take general preventive health measures that include eating only hot food, drinking clean water and taking enough rest and exercise. Those who experience severe sudden multiple vomiting with or without diarrhea, should seek medical attention immediately.

[thegame925]

Here is a list of recommended Chaing Mai restaurants.

I ate at the first two when last in Chiang Mai:

The Gallery Restaurant: Offers a charming, relaxed, riverside experience in one of the oldest wooden structures in Chiang Mai. There€™s also an art gallery, although food and service can be variable. Open: 12:00-01:00; 25/27/29 Charoenrat Road, tel: (053) 248 601/2. $$

The Whole Earth: Serves up excellent Indian food (with a wide vegetarian selection) in an antique house with a lovely garden. Open: 11:00-23:00; 88 Sri Doncai Road, tel: (053) 282 463. $$

Other restaurants recommended to me:

Budget rating (approximate)
$ dishes 50-100 baht; pint of beer 80 baht; whisky shot 90 baht; cocktails 100 baht
$$ dishes 100-200 baht; pint of beer 110 baht; whisky shot 100 baht; cocktails 120 baht
$$$ dishes 150-500 baht; pint of beer 120 baht; whisky shot 130 baht; cocktails 150 baht

Ambiance restaurants:

Antique House: Here you€™ll discover a beautiful 100-year-old teak house with good service and toned down food for Western tastes in a relaxing atmosphere. Two branches. Changklan Branch, Open: 11:00-01:00: 71 Charoen Prathet Road, tel: (053) 276 810; Rim Ping branch, Open: 16:00-02:00; 154/1 Chiang Mai\Lamphun Road, tel: (053) 232 078, email: [email protected]. $$

The House Restaurant: This is one of Chiang Mai€™s most commendable restaurants, serving exceptional Asian fusion dishes, and other cuisine, in an exclusive atmosphere. The tapas bar and menu is a lighter choice. Open: 10:00-23:00; 199 Moon Muang Road, Sriphum, tel: (053) 419 011-13, mobile: 08 9755 1395, email: [email protected]. $$$

Khun Nai Dern Sai: Is roughly translated as €˜the lady wakes late€™ and is the delightful creation of Khun Noi. This is the place to head for an unusual Thai menu, along with cute décor, perfect background music and a nice ambience that attracts bohemian trendies. Open: 17:30 to midnight; Soi 11, Nimminhemin Road, tel: (053) 222 208, mobile: 08 0460 712. $

Palaad Tawanron: This popular restaurant enjoys an unbeatable location among the forests on the lower slopes of the mountain (above the zoo). The views are great, but it gets busy so be prepared for a long wait for your food. Follow the signs from the right turn near the top of Suthep Road and behind Chiang Mai University. Open: 11:00 to midnight; 100 Huay Kaew, tel: (053) 216 039/216576, email: [email protected]. $$

The Moxie: The in-house restaurant at Chiang Mai€™s hippest new hotel, the D2, serving Thai fusion and international food. You also get the stunning Mix bar, its good-looking staff, and a convenient location. Open: 18:30-01:00; D2 Hotel, 100 Chan Klan Road, tel053) 999 999. $$$

International restaurants in Chiang Mai:

Le Coq d'Or Restaurant: Unrivalled in the city with 35 years of French food and wine excellence in a lovely antique teak house. One luxury experience. Open: 17:00-22:00; 11 Soi 2, Koh Klang Road, Nong Hoi, tel: (053) 141 555/801 501. $$$+

Chedi Restaurant: An upmarket and stately experience in the grand old colonial former British consulate, located in the Chedi Hotel. Features fine dining, good service and a convenient riverside location. Open: 07:00-23:00; 123 Charoen Prathet Road, tel: (053) 253 333. $$$+

Farang Ses: A silver service, luxury-priced French restaurant set in an extraordinary Lanna-themed hotel in San Khampaeng in a temple-styled building. The menu offers world class dishes and a first-class dining experience unmatched in Chiang Mai. Open: 18:00-22:30; Dhara Dhevi Hotel, San Khampaeng, tel: (053) 888 888 - ext 8549, email: [email protected]. $$$++

Girasole: Is a conveniently located pizzeria and trattoria from the expert Italian management at La Gondola. Indoor (air con) and al-fresco dining available in the Kad Klang Wiang garden arcade near Thapae Gate. Good menu and service. Open 11:00-23:00. Kad Klang Wiang, Rachadamnoen Road, Old Town, Chiang Mai, Tel: (053)276 388. $$

Giorgio: An unassuming Italian place near the Night Market with exceptional food and faultless service, boasting clientele such as the Crown Prince. Open: 11:30-14:30 and 18:00-22:30; 2/6 Prachasampan Road, Changklan (near intersection with Sri Donchai Road), tel: (053) 818 236, mobile: 08 7184 9107 (booking recommended), email: [email protected]. $$$

Mi Casa Dining Concepts: Mediterranean restaurant and tapas corner with a trio of dining options. 1st Floor: Su Casa Tapas Corner, open: 11:00-22:00 (Monday to Saturday); 2nd Floor: Upstairs Dining - Special Tasting Menu & Wine Dinner, by reservation only; 4th Floor (The Roof): exclusive private dining. 28 nimmanhaemin Soi 11, tel: (08) 0033 2825, (08) 9536 4540, email: [email protected].

Su Casa: Chiang Mai€™s favourite Mediterranean Restaurant Mi Casa, has spawned a sibling down a happening soi off Nimmanhaemin Road - Su Casa. 28 Nimmanhaemin Soi 11; tel: (053) 810 088 / 080 0332 825, email: [email protected]


Jia Thong Heng: A busy choice full of Chiang Mai's elite, with first-class Chinese food and service. Situated near Anusarn Market. Open: 10:00-22:00; 193/2-3 Sri Donchai Road, tel: (053) 820 860-2, email: [email protected]. $$$

Le Crystal: A five-star, French cuisine-eating experience with silver service and an exotic menu, all in a beautiful garden setting beside the Ping River. Open 18:00-22:00; 74/2 Paton Road, A Muang, tel (053) 872 8901. $$$+
Le Crystal Restaurant, Chiang Mai

Fujian: Located in the five-star Mandarin Oriental hotel in a mock Asian market, where Cantonese cuisine is delivered with authentic ambience and impeccable service. Their all-you-can-eat lunch dim sum is very affordable. Open: 11:30-14:30 and 18:30-22:30; Dhara Dhevi Hotel, San Khampaeng, tel: (053) 888 888 - ext 8548, email: [email protected]. $$$

Asahi: Serves inexpensive, but authentic, sushi, teriyaki and sashimi. Great, central location near the Night Bazaar. Open: 17:00-23:00 (closed 2nd and 4th Sunday each month); 98/3 Sri Donchai Road, Changklan, tel: (053) 275 323. $$

Miguel's: Perhaps the best place in Chiang Mai for authentic Mexican food, though not always the best service, with a delicious Tex Mex menu and margaritas. Three locations. Miguel€™s Cafe; open: 09:00-23:00, 106/1 Chaiyaphum Road, tel: (053) 874 148, Miguel€™s Cafe & Bar; open: 09:00-23:00, Chiang Mai 89 Plaza, Lamphum Rd, Nong Hoi, tel: (053) 334472, Miguel€™s Express; open: 09:00-midnight, Tall Teak Plaza, Nimmanhaemin Road, Tel: (053) 217 472. $$

Chiang Mai Saloon: American-style burger and €˜South West€™ steakhouse; friendly staff; nice atmosphere; big screen music videos and sporting events; pool tables; free internet; cheap margaritas. Two locations, both open: 12:00-midnight 80/1 Loi Kroh Rd , tel: 08-0675 2169; 30 Ratchawithi Rd, Tel: 08-1930 2212. $$

The Duke's: is an American-style steak house popular with NGO and missionaries for its tasty and hearty menu, professional service and nice atmosphere - busy Sundays. Open: 11:00-22:30; Ping River branch: 49/4-5 Chiang Mai-Lamphun Road, tel: (053) 249 231; Night Bazaar branch: 1st & 2nd Floor, Chiang Mai Pavilion, Changklan Road, tel: (053) 818 603. $$

Jerusalem Falafel: The place for tasty Middle Eastern food and delicacies in a small, centrally-located shop opposite Thapae Gate. Open: 09:00-15:00 and 17:00-22:00; 5/5 Moon Muang Road, tel: (053) 270 208. $$

Lunch restaurants:

Ratana's Kitchen: A popular place with air-con and tasty Thai and international food, conveniently located. Open: 07:30-midnight, 320-322 Tapae Road, tel: (053) 874 173. $

Aroon Rai: Simple and well known, yet not as famous as it once was, with buffet, basic menu, and 35 years experience. Open: 10:00-21:00; 45 Kotchasarn Road (near Thapae Gate), tel: (053) 276 947. $

Salad House: Set in pleasant gardens with a creative, simple menu drawing from its organic fields onsite. They also sell produce. Open: 11:00-19:00; Mahidol Road (adjacent to Airport Plaza), tel: (053) 201 690. $+

Cafe de Siam: Conveniently-located near the Night Market area, this simple bistro offers a healthy and tasty menu that is ideal for visitors. Professional service. Open: 18:30-22:00; 85 Loi Kroh Road, tel: (053) 207 258. $

Blue Diamond: This health-food gem has fresh bakes and healthy herbs, making it a popular brunch place. Tricky to find. Open: 07:00-21:00; 35/1 Moonmuang, Soi 9 (near Sriphum Moat corner), tel: (053) 217 120. $

Khun Churn: Serves a vegetarian buffet (60 baht) every lunchtime, popular with Thais and expats alike. Open: 08:00-22:00; 4 Nimanhemin Road, Soi 17, tel: (053) 224 124. $

[Torurot]

Not sure what is really going on here:

Another Sarah Carter-style mystery death in Thailand
Last updated 11:43 16/03/2011

Thais doubt seaweed killed Sarah Carter

A Frenchwoman has been identified as the sixth person to die in similar circumstances to New Zealander Sarah Carter in Chiang Mai in Thailand this year.

Carter, 23, became ill last month while staying at the Downtown Inn in Chiang Mai, and died a day later.

Early reports suggested the cause of her death was toxic seaweed she had eaten, but food poisoning tests proved inconclusive.

A report by Thailand's Department of Disease Control found Carter was one of three people to die as a result of myocarditis between January 9 and February 4 in Chiang Mai - the others were American Soraya Vorster, 33, and a Frenchwoman aged between 23 and 33.

An elderly British couple and a 47-year-old Thai woman staying in the same hotel as Ms Carter died around the same time, in similar circumstances.

Chiang Mai Governor Pannada Disakul said their deaths were coincidence.

Four young women - among them Carter's friends Emma Langlands, 23, and Amanda Eliason, 24 - also became ill with mild symptoms, the report said.

In the report the joint investigation team said myocarditis was a well known illness which may result from viral infection, bacterial infection and toxins.

''However, four cases among young healthy adults in the same location is rare.''

[reflections]

thanks guys you all rock

[marshal]

The House is a lovely setting to eat, although not thai food, can not comment on the food as it was 5 years ago i last ate there. Jeruselum Falafel has nice food, however it's a very laid back affair and you might find the owner sat at your table talking away!