Looking for the best date night options in Chiang Mai? Here are 30 worth dressing up for.
By DineGuides Team·Updated July 2026
Thai and fusion restaurants split the date night list in Chiang Mai, and the best rooms cluster near the old city and Nimman. Chang Phueak pulls a few more options north of the moat. Japanese is a stronger showing than you'd expect for a northern Thai city, with six spots on the list. All 30 restaurants here, all mid-range, which means the price is about the setting, not a tasting menu.
Chiang Mai Date Night Cheat Sheet & Local Logistics+
Many date night spots in Chiang Mai are spread across different neighborhoods—which areas cluster the best restaurants for an evening out, and how do they differ?
Chang Khlan Sub-district near the night bazaar and riverside areas offer concentrated dining with evening foot traffic and ambient lighting, while Mae Rim District and Hang Dong provide quieter, more secluded settings with views—better for couples seeking conversation without crowds. Getting between these areas typically requires a taxi or rideshare, as they are not walkable from each other, so consider your transportation plan before choosing a neighborhood.
What is the tipping practice at date night restaurants in Chiang Mai, and does it differ from casual dining spots?
Tipping is not customary or expected at most restaurants in Chiang Mai, including upscale date night venues; service charges may be included in the bill at higher-end establishments. If you wish to tip for exceptional service, 5–10% is appreciated but entirely optional, and leaving cash is more common than adding to a card payment.
Is there a particular time of year or season when date night dining in Chiang Mai shifts, and what should couples know about timing their evening?
The cool season from November to February sees peak dinner crowds as visitors and couples prefer outdoor or garden settings, while the hot season (March–May) often means earlier dinner times (6–7pm) to avoid heat. Many restaurants with views or open-air seating adjust lighting and ambiance differently during the rainy season (June–October), so the experience of the same spot varies significantly by season.
This Spanish restaurant feels like dining in an artist's home, with the owner, an artist himself, infusing the space with a unique, cozy vibe. It's a destination for authentic paella, prepared with fresh ingredients and a clear passion for Spanish flavors.
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“The owner, Ric, is a charismatic magician. He creates a simple yet natural atmosphere while using the finest ingredients to cook delicious food.”
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“This place deserves 6 stars. It's the best paella you find not in Chiang Mai but in Thailand.”
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“A warm and attentive owner, a family-inherited recipe, delicious and healthy food, and lazy cats and dogs - enjoy sunshine and delicious food in a quiet, pastoral setting.”
Roam Bar Joy is a charming escape in Mae Rim, offering a unique fusion of global flavors with a distinctively cozy and stylish atmosphere. The cocktails are a highlight, crafted with flair and originality, complementing dishes that range from addictive pork rinds to perfectly balanced Tom Yum Kung. It's a place that feels both special and welcoming, ideal for a relaxed evening.
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“K. Nehru very knowledgeable and friendly, addictive pork rinds, and for me, the best Tom Yung Kung I've had in Chiang Mai”
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“I recommend Duck curry, Tom Kah Gai, Caesar salad.. Crispy wings. E2. Is the best ever. Besssssst!!”
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“Beautiful garden, great service, interesting & very tasty cocktails. The one dish we tried, banana blossom salad with shrimp, was perfectly prepared. A place with style, flair and class!”
This Japanese spot transports diners straight to Kyoto with its authentic atmosphere and meticulously prepared dishes. Fresh, high-quality ingredients shine, particularly in the generous sashimi portions and the unique black squid ink spaghetti. It's a place where the quality far exceeds the price point.
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“The fish is fresh. Every dish is delicious. The quality is better than the price.”
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“The sashimi was amazing! The sea urchin was sweet and not fishy at all.”
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“The atmosphere was fantastic, giving a 300% Japanese feel both inside and out.”
This Chiang Mai restaurant offers a vibrant Thai and Malay fusion experience set against a backdrop of serene rice fields. Diners love the aromatic Hung Lay pork ribs curry and beautifully presented dishes, all served in a stylish, photogenic space.
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“The service was excellent and the private dining space overlooked the beautiful landscape of rice fields, the location in San Kamphaeng is on the outskirts of Chiang …”
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“The flavours, from central Thai, Northern Thai and fusion creations are absolutely delicious.”
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“The atmosphere is good, with beautiful, lush green views of the rice fields.”
This French restaurant in Chiang Mai is a testament to the chef's Michelin-starred background, offering refined dishes with fresh, local ingredients. Run by a passionate French-Thai couple, it provides a warm, intimate setting perfect for a special meal.
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“The atmosphere was nice, and both the owner and chef were very friendly, definitely will come back and would recommend to my friends.”
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“The chef personally attended to us very well, and the attention to detail and the quality of the products offered are excellent!”
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“Right in the heart of Chiang Mai, but not necessarily in the most popular neighborhoods, lies this incredible restaurant.”
This cozy Japanese izakaya feels like a neighborhood bar, offering a warm atmosphere perfect for solo drinks or small gatherings. The owner and staff are well-regarded for their friendliness, creating a welcoming environment where guests feel at home.
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“I love the atmosphere; it's cozy and friendly. The food is also very good. Perfect for a date, or just relaxing.”
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“It's located across from the Chiang Mai Crossvibe Hotel, and it's perfect for a quick beer alone or with two or three people.”
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“The fried beef is especially delicious and very cheap, cheaper than anywhere else I've been.”
Aquaria offers a refined escape with its lush garden setting and a menu that balances Western-fusion dishes with bold flavors. It's a place where the ambiance, from the soft lighting to the comfortable seating, complements the meticulously prepared food. The attentive service further enhances the overall sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere.
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“We ordered the T-bone steak, truffle mashed potatoes, Angus bolognese fettuccine, lamb tacos, and grilled vegetables. Everything was absolutely delicious!”
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“The food is cheap and delicious! We ordered the T-shaped beef bone again and again; it only cost 1300 baht.”
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“The staff were warm, attentive, and made the whole experience even better. Easily one of the best dining spots in Chiangmai.”
CHAWEE offers a deeply personal journey through authentic Thai home-style cooking, inspired by the chef's grandmother. Each dish is a meticulously crafted story, balancing traditional flavors with seasonal ingredients in a warm, intimate setting. It's a place where the food nourishes the spirit as much as the palate.
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“The service was excellent, made even more special by the chef personally serving each dish and explaining every menu in detail.”
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“The chef has a unique cooking method, and the menu changes every first of the month. All the food is delicious.”
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“The price is very reasonable, €55 for two people. Outstanding, we highly recommend it.”
Ideal for
Authentic Thai food loversIntimate dinnersExperiencing traditional recipes
Amataros Sourdough Pizza is a Chiang favorite, celebrated for its remarkably thin and crispy sourdough crust that forms the base of its pizzas. Beyond the star pizzas, the menu offers a range of delicious pastas and other Italian-inspired dishes, all served in a relaxed and stylish atmosphere. The owners are hands-on, contributing to a personal and welcoming feel.
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“This is the best pizza I have ever eaten in my entire life and I'm 50 years old so it's amazing.”
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“Absolutely excellent food. From all italian places i’ve been in asia, this is the best and I dont say that lightly.”
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“The pizza is outstanding. I ordered the 4-cheese pizza with local artisanal cheeses that I found to be of high quality.”
Patus Pasta offers a cozy, modern atmosphere perfect for enjoying their signature fresh, handmade pasta dishes. The owner's passion is evident in the attentive service and thoughtful details, making it a standout choice for Italian comfort food in Chiang Mai.
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“Staffs are all friendly and well-trained especially the restaurant manager ☘️We are so impressive and will surely do come back 100% recommend ✅✅✅”
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“It’s very nice restaurant very beautiful inside very polite servers and they have a lot of parking lots behind a restaurant”
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“Homemade Fettuccine seafood Arrabiata exceeded our expectation! We loved it so much that we had to order it twice.”
This serene oasis, tucked away within the Tamarind Village Hotel, offers a tranquil escape with its lush greenery and poolside seating. Live music often fills the air, creating a romantic ambiance perfect for a relaxed evening. While the food is generally well-prepared, some dishes have missed the mark, and the pricing leans towards the higher end for Chiang Mai.
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“We ate the best Pad Thai of the trip! Delicious! We ordered duck with lychee and curry and a "red pork curry" which were wonderful!”
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“The atmosphere is relaxed and upscale. The food is also delicious. ^^ The staff are friendly and helpful, so I'm very satisfied. Thank you.”
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“This place is an absolute vibe. The food is delicious, and understandably priced higher than local rates. Go for the food and atmosphere.”
This Chiang Mai spot focuses on expertly crafted homemade pasta, blending Italian tradition with subtle Thai influences. Chef Ton, with his extensive hotel background, infuses each dish with care, offering creative sauces and perfectly cooked noodles at remarkably accessible prices. It's a place where fresh ingredients and thoughtful preparation shine.
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“I'm editing this two years after my first review. This restaurant has relocated to the Nimman area. Their food is still amazing and delicious.”
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“Absolutely incredible spaghetti bolognese and caesar salad. Best food I have had in such a long time.”
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“I followed them from their original location. The food quality is just as delicious as before!”
Ideal for
Comfort food cravingsAffordable date nightCasual lunch
Lumi offers a refined Italian dining experience in Chiang Mai, with a strong emphasis on fresh ingredients and attentive service. While many dishes are known for their quality and flavor, some diners note that certain pasta preparations can be slightly undercooked or dry. The restaurant's ambiance is consistently highlighted as a positive aspect, making it a suitable choice for special occasions.
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“The shop is clean, the massage is excellent, there's ample parking, and the atmosphere is friendly.”
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“The shop is very beautiful. Every angle is good for taking photos.”
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“The food is very delicious, especially the pizza. It's the best.”
Tubping by Anjakinn offers a refined take on Northern Thai cuisine, set against the tranquil backdrop of the Ping River. The restaurant masterfully balances traditional flavors with contemporary presentation, making each dish a visual and culinary delight. It's a place where the ambiance enhances the meal, creating a memorable dining occasion.
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“The food was delicious, especially the desserts; the young coconut sticky rice balls are even better than any I've had before.”
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“The restaurant has a wonderful atmosphere and is located right by the Ping River.”
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“I made the mistake of thinking I'd eat lunch without making a reservation. I almost missed out. I recommend making a reservation.”
This cozy Italian spot in Chiang Mai specializes in fresh, homemade pasta with a comforting, friend's kitchen atmosphere. Diners love the flavorful noodle dishes, particularly the miso carbonara and truffle ravioli, and appreciate the warm service and inviting ambiance.
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“The food is delicious, the price is reasonable, and it's in the heart of the city.”
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“I've eaten here many years ago and recently returned, and the food was just as delicious.”
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“This small shop near the Faculty of Dentistry, Chiang Mai University, has a very cozy and comfortable atmosphere.”
This dessert spot is a vibrant hub for students and locals, offering a playful atmosphere filled with board games and colorful sticky notes adorning the walls. It's a go-to for affordable, customizable shaved ice and ice cream creations, with a friendly owner who often guides topping choices.
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“This student hot spot feels a bit like Canmore. It's cute, reasonably priced, and the coconut ice cream is delicious.”
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“The owner is very kind. Fresh coconut shaved ice for 45 baht, it’s super delicious for this price~~”
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“Coconut ice cream was excellent, mango was very tasty. Sauce was nice and salty.”
This Chiang Mai pizzeria offers a cozy escape with its candlelit ambiance and a menu that blends Italian classics with Thai twists. Expect a relaxed atmosphere perfect for quiet evenings, though the kitchen's execution can be inconsistent.
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“Probably the best pizza in Chiang Mai. There are places with lot more crowd and lot more popular but this place beats other by the quality of food and service.”
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“Excellent service, super nice and stuff pays attention to everything. Nice candlelight instead of bright electric light which have the place a super romantic and quiet atmosphere.”
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“This is easily some of the best pizza that I have had in Thailand.”
This Chiang Mai spot offers a visually stunning escape with its colonial and Western-inspired architecture, creating a beautiful backdrop for a meal. It's a place that shines with its charming ambiance and attentive, friendly staff, making it ideal for a relaxed afternoon or a romantic dinner.
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“The atmosphere is excellent. If you're looking for a place to escape the crowds, this is the place to go for tea, smoothies, and cocktails.”
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“The waiter does not only take order but recommend a lot of menu and listen to food's feedback as well.”
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“Windows Café and Restaurant is a favorite in Hang Dong. Delicious food, cozy atmosphere, and friendly staff.”
This American-style BBQ and steakhouse serves up generous portions of expertly grilled meats, with standout dishes like the fall-off-the-bone ribs and tender brisket. The cozy atmosphere, often accompanied by jazz music, makes it feel like dining at a friend's house. While the food and service are well-regarded, be prepared for potential waits, especially during peak times.
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“The meats were outstanding. Ribs were fall off the bone. Pulled pork was our favorite. Sides also excellent along with service and value”
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“The best steak I ever had at a restaurant in Chiang Mai! ALL the food was VERY GOOD!”
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“Great ambience, and quiet atmosphere with top notch service. Would highly recommend and definitely coming back soon.”
Ideal for
Carnivore's dreamCasual date nightFamily-style dining
Aquila offers Italian cuisine with a distinct Asian twist, a combination that diners find both creative and delicious. The chef's tasting menu is frequently highlighted as a journey through the restaurant's most popular and well-executed dishes. While the food is well-regarded, some find the portions modest for the price.
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“Hidden away on a cozy lane in #ChiangMai, this outstanding Italian eatery boasts a dash of Asian flair.”
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“The chef's tasting menu was amazing; taking us through samples of some of the most popular dishes.”
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“The overall quality of the food was excellent, with well-balanced and diverse Italian flavors.”
Parc Thai Eatery offers a refined take on Thai cuisine, blending traditional flavors with modern presentation in a beautiful, serene setting. Standout dishes like the stuffed mackerel and panaeng beef curry are well-regarded, complemented by attentive service and a tranquil garden ambiance. It's a sophisticated choice for those seeking a flavorful and visually appealing meal.
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“This stylish resort-style hotel near Chiang Mai Airport offers chic event rooms nestled amidst lush gardens and a beautiful swimming pool.”
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“The panaeng beef was truly the most delicious curry I have ever had in my life.”
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“The fish cakes were the best ever. The fettucine in Tom Kha sauce was brilliant.”
Redbox offers a refined, intimate fine-dining experience within the chef's own home, blending Thai flavors with international techniques. Chef Dan is known for his creative tasting menus and personal touch, often visiting tables to discuss his culinary philosophy. The intimate setting, with only a few tables, aims to provide a highly personalized and memorable meal.
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“The seating was described as your “best,” yet it was anything but. The constant vibrations and noise were reminiscent of a construction site, not a fine dining establishment.”
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“I’ve tried Redbox across a few seasons, and this season’s “Nature and Culture” is truly amazing.”
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“From the moment we arrived, the hospitality was outstanding, the entire team was attentive and made sure we felt taken care of at every second.”
Pasta Ama offers a cozy escape with its fusion of Italian and Thai flavors, creating unique pasta dishes in a charming, relaxed atmosphere. The original building provides an impressive backdrop, and the ample parking adds to the convenience. It's a welcoming spot perfect for casual meals or intimate dates.
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“It’s a perfectly serviceable Thai fusion pasta place. It doesn’t deserve 5 stars, probably 3.5. Inexpensive, decent food, not amazing.”
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“I absolutely loved my experience at Pasta Ama! The pasta dishes are fresh, flavorful, and cooked perfectly.”
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“Delicious homemade pasta, cozy vibe, and friendly staff. The flavors are authentic and everything tasted fresh. One of the best pasta spots in Chiang Mai. Highly recommend!”
Ideal for
Date nightCasual meal with friendsTrying unique fusion dishes
Deck 1 offers a serene escape along the Ping River, blending a chic atmosphere with a menu that aims for upscale Thai fusion. While the riverside setting and elegant decor create a tranquil vibe, the kitchen's execution can be inconsistent, and service sometimes falters under pressure.
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“The food was delicious and beautifully presented… The restaurant was quiet and comfortable… Of course, the Meiping River looked yellow at midday… but that didn't detract from the river view…”
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“Deck 1 is not only beautiful inside and out, the food is really good, and the setting on the river is magical ✨️”
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“Beautiful location on the Ping River. Not cheap, but everything exudes luxury.”
Ideal for
Riverside diningRomantic dinnersWesterners seeking a break from local cuisine
This Chiang Mai spot is a haven for serious meat lovers, specializing in expertly grilled steaks and unique beef preparations like tartare and fried tongue. Beyond the prime cuts, they offer a cozy atmosphere with jazz and blues music, making it a relaxed choice for a flavorful meal.
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“As someone who has cooked thousands of steaks, this may be THE steakhouse I have tried so far here. Absolutely perfect!”
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“450 bht for the steak. Thats a super comterble price for a perfect dish”
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“This might be the best meal i’ve had in a year holy shit. Best food i’ve had in thailand hands down”
This Chiang Mai pizzeria surprises with a menu that extends far beyond pizza, featuring well-prepared steaks and salads that have earned high celebrate. The atmosphere is consistently described as pleasant, with a recent renovation enhancing its appeal. While the food quality is a strong point, value can be a concern due to higher prices and sometimes small portions.
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“We’ve been in Thailand for five days, and this has by far been the best food we’ve had.”
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“I ordered a rocket and blue cheese salad with balsamic and olive oil, and I can honestly say it was the best salad I have ever eaten in my life.”
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“Absolutely fantastic food! Real attention to detail and great ingredients. These people do cook Italian food.”
This Chiang Mai steakhouse punches well above its weight, offering surprisingly high-quality grilled meats and flavorful beef dishes from a compact, unassuming space. It's a go-to for excellent value, with many dishes, particularly the beef fried rice, earning enthusiastic recognition for their taste and generous portions.
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“This is, in our opinion, the best value-for-money steak restaurant in Chiang Mai.”
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“The meat was very delicious and juicy. I personally like the chili oil dip, which tastes similar to chili sauce but is not spicy.”
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“Sometimes I recommend it to friends and they say it's tough, but I come here often and sometimes it's tough, but most of the time it's delicious.”
Set against the backdrop of a golf course, White Jungle offers a visually stunning atmosphere with its spacious terrace and panoramic views. The menu presents a varied selection of Thai fusion dishes, with many diners highlighting the quality and generous portions that justify the price point.
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“The atmosphere is very good. The food is delicious. The price is not too high. The staff provides good service.”
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“Its a beautiful set up at the gold court. Very beautiful terrace with good furniture.”
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“Excellent thai food in a high-end comfortable atmosphere on the North Hill golf course.”
This riverside spot offers a romantic ambiance with live music and stunning views, making it a popular choice for evenings out. While the atmosphere and setting are well-regarded, the food quality can be hit or miss, with some dishes arriving cold or lacking expected ingredients.
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“We had a wonderful evening, welcomed by Rey’s lovely service and a romantic atmosphere from the moment we stepped inside.”
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“Beautiful place with a great atmosphere. The food was very good. I recommend going here for sunset.”
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“Simply the best night out, I've had in a long time. The service was the best.”
Ideal for
Romantic eveningsRiverside diningLive music enjoyment
This Chiang Mai spot offers a wide selection of European dishes and wines, aiming for a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere. While many celebrate the food and wine, some recent changes to recipes and inconsistent portion sizes have led to disappointment for a few.
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“This location is very perfect for chilling and enjoying alone or as a couple. Nice ambiance and music is super!”
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“The atmosphere is great, the food is delicious, and the service staff are attentive and very good at pouring wine.”
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“It was the best pizza and garlic bread I’ve ever tasted in my life plus the rating is infinity”
