The chef-owner of Asia’s No. 1 Restaurant in 2023, Le Du, has compiled his favourite restaurants, bars, and eateries in the northern Thai city
The mountainous city of Chiang Mai in Thailand has long been known for its picturesque scenery, beautiful architecture, and moreish food. But if you’re looking for an authoritative guide to eateries, bars and restaurants in the city, look no further. For chef Thitid Tassanakajohn, more popularly known as chef Ton, Chiang Mai holds deep personal meaning. The city is home to suppliers of his famed Bangkok restaurants Le Du (Asia’s No. 1 Restaurant in 2023) and Nusara, and the chef-owner makes it a point to visit several times a year, charmed by its ingredients and culinary culture. Read on for an insider guide to the best spots to wine and dine at in Chiang Mai.
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1. Magnolia Café
For the “best Thai food all around”, head down to Magnolia Café, which boasts a Michelin Bib Gourmand. You’ll find both traditional and modern takes on Thai cuisine here, like sun-dried squid with fresh watermelon and stir-fried cabbage with pork belly, Ton believes that Magnolia Café presents “the best that the Thai home cook has to offer”, even claiming that the spot has served “some of the most delicious meals in my life”.
Magnolia Café
Address: 131 70,131/82 Rattanakosin Road, Pa Tan Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand