Looking for vegetarian and vegan options in Chiang Mai? Here are 25 spots where plants are the point.
By DineGuides Team·Updated March 2026
Finding the perfect vegetarian & vegan spot in Chiang Mai can feel overwhelming. There are hundreds of options, and not all of them deliver. We’ve done the legwork, considering everything from vibe to value. Whether you’re a local looking for something new or visiting for the first time, these are the vegetarian & vegan spots that consistently impress.
Chiang Mai’s Top 5 (Verified 2026 Scores)
Cherry Burmese(91) — Authentic Burmese cuisine
Green Food(90) — Vegetarian and vegan travelers
Pakbai Vegetarian(89) — Vegetarian and vegan travelers
The Bowl Spot - Poke Bowls in Chiang Mai(88) — Healthy lunch
How do I navigate ordering at Northern Thai restaurants in Chiang Mai if I'm vegetarian or vegan, given that many dishes traditionally contain fish sauce or shrimp paste?
Most Northern Thai restaurants in Chiang Mai are accustomed to vegetarian requests and can modify dishes by omitting fish sauce and shrimp paste; however, communicating clearly at the time of ordering is essential, as these ingredients are standard in many curry pastes and sauces. Learning the Thai phrase "mai sai nam pla, mai sai kapi" (no fish sauce, no shrimp paste) helps ensure your order is prepared correctly. Spots across the city—from Mae Rim District to Chang Khlan—routinely accommodate this adjustment without requiring advance notice.
What payment methods should I expect at vegetarian and vegan restaurants across different neighborhoods in Chiang Mai?
Cash payment remains standard at many restaurants in Chiang Mai, particularly in neighborhoods like Chang Moi Sub-district and Hang Dong, though card acceptance is increasingly common in more central areas such as Tambon Si Phum and Chang Khlan. It is practical to carry Thai baht, especially when dining at smaller family-run establishments or casual lunch spots, as not all locations have reliable card processing infrastructure.
Are there particular times of year or seasons when vegetarian and vegan options become less available in Chiang Mai?
The cooler season (November to February) sees heightened tourist activity and restaurant traffic across all neighborhoods, which generally increases menu availability and restaurant hours. During the hot season (March to May), some casual dining spots and outdoor relaxation venues may adjust their hours or reduce operations, particularly in districts like Mae Rim; planning visits during peak service times reduces the likelihood of encountering limited options.
Cherry Burmese offers a deeply satisfying taste of authentic Burmese cuisine, a family-run spot where passion for their heritage shines through in every flavorful dish. It's a place where generous portions, incredibly friendly service, and a welcoming, homey atmosphere combine for excellent value.
🍽️94Food
💰93Value
✨85Vibe
💬
“10/10 all round! very affordable very tasty and good portions. Lovely staff. Nice amount of seating good Burmese and Indian food.”
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“Amazing food comes in small restaurants. Incredible Goat Curry full of so much flavor and wonderful service (speaks rather good English).”
💬
“The food was extraordinary. The curry and roti are perfect. I strongly recommend the potato curry and fish curry. I think I’ve fallen in love with Burmese food.”
Ideal for
Authentic Burmese cuisineFamily-friendly mealsVegetarian and vegan options
This vibrant stall in the Kalare Night Bazaar transforms fresh, plant-based ingredients into visually stunning dishes that rival fine dining. The owner's passion is evident in every flavorful bite, offering a unique and delicious alternative to traditional meat-centric meals.
🍽️95Food
💰95Value
✨85Vibe
💬
“What a tasty, filling and freshly prepared vegetarian street food!! We had the fresh salad with the fried patties and it was delicious!”
💬
“Outstanding. I was amazed at how beautifully presented and delicious the food was. This felt more like a Michelin star restaurant than a stall at a night market.”
💬
“Best vegan food so far: exotic, healthy, lovely people & an amazing price for that beautiful dish!”
Ideal for
Vegetarian and vegan travelersBudget-friendly mealsAuthentic market finds
This vegetarian stall in a Chiang Mai market serves up vibrant, fresh Thai flavors with a personal touch. The owner-chef, often described as a "friendly wizard," crafts dishes that are both authentic and surprisingly creative, adjusting them for allergies and preferences. It's a place where delicious, home-style cooking meets genuinely warm hospitality.
🍽️94Food
💰90Value
✨75Vibe
💬
“This is some of the most delicious food we have had in Chiang Mai. The Tom yum omelette and glass noodle salad are my favourites.”
💬
“The lady chef is really amazing, she is very creative and cooks everything on the go.”
💬
“How fresh and amazing these dishes were - Served by the loveliest smile!”
Ideal for
Vegetarian and vegan travelersCasual market diningExploring local flavors
This Chiang Mai spot focuses on vibrant, healthy poke bowls, offering a refreshing counterpoint to local cuisine. They consistently deliver fresh ingredients and attentive service, often with thoughtful extras like complimentary fruit or handwritten notes.
🍽️90Food
💰85Value
✨85Vibe
💬
“Amazing food! My family ate here 2 days in a row because it was so tasty, filling, and reasonably priced.”
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“The food was absolutely delicious! We ordered via grab and it was neatly packaged and beautifully presented.”
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“The atmosphere is cozy and calm, perfect for a solo lunch or a catch up with friends.”
Ideal for
Healthy lunchPost-workout mealVegetarian and vegan options
This volunteer-run, not-for-profit spot offers an incredible array of local vegetarian dishes, many prepared with minimal salt, oil, and sugar. Arrive by 6 am for the widest selection of premade options, snacks, and noodle soup, as variety diminishes and the restaurant closes in the early afternoon.
🍽️94Food
💰95Value
✨75Vibe
💬
“The food is AMAZING All the locals eat here, so if you want a real Thai experience, go for it.”
💬
“This vegetarian food tastes just like regular food. It's delicious! If you haven't tried it yet, you should definitely come here.”
💬
“This is easily one of the best local options in this category for anyone looking for a quality meal at local prices.”
Ideal for
Healthy eatingBudget-friendly mealsVegetarian and vegan diners
This Chiang Mai spot specializes in authentic Karen cuisine, offering a vibrant spread of curries, an abundance of fresh vegetables, and free-flowing rice. The staff's genuine warmth and the natural, traditional atmosphere make it a welcoming haven for exploring Burmese and Karen flavors.
🍽️92Food
💰88Value
✨85Vibe
💬
“Delicious tar la paw soup - highly recommended, they also provide free fermented fish paste and plenty of fresh vegetables.”
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“The staff is amazing, happy for serving us delicious food and offering traditional dishes of corean food with influence of Myanmar.”
💬
“The first time I went to eat there, it was very delicious. Every menu, especially the chili paste, I had to buy some to take home.”
Ideal for
Authentic Karen cuisineVegetarian-friendly mealsExploring local flavors
85DineGuides Score
Ekthip Chokdee Vegetarian Chinese and Non-Vegetarian Chinese Cuisine Restaurant, Chiang Mai City
This long-standing Chiang Mai restaurant offers a comforting blend of Chinese and Thai flavors, with a particular strength in its extensive vegetarian and vegan options. It's a place where generations have found familiar tastes, from classic stir-fries to comforting soups, all served in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
🍽️88Food
💰88Value
✨78Vibe
💬
“A business owner who is honest with customers like this is commendable and intends to maintain this restaurant as a favorite forever.”
💬
“This is a long-established Chinese restaurant serving Cantonese and Thai cuisine. The food is delicious, and the garlic ribs are a must-order.”
💬
“This is a delicious Chinese restaurant, and the atmosphere reminds me of dining on Nathan Road in Hong Kong.”
Ideal for
Family mealsVegetarian and vegan diningComfort food cravings
This vegetarian spot is a local institution, serving up a vast array of flavorful Thai dishes that rival more expensive establishments. It's a place where generous portions and incredibly low prices make it a go-to for both regulars and those seeking authentic, hearty vegan meals.
🍽️90Food
💰95Value
✨75Vibe
💬
“Amazing vegan and vegetarian food with affordable prices! Couldn’t recommend this place more! 100 baht for two whole meals.”
💬
“The portion size was excellent, and most importantly, it was incredibly delicious. The price was extremely reasonable.”
💬
“The location was fantastic, slightly different from the map, but right in front of Wat Phra Singh.”
Ideal for
Budget-friendly mealsVegetarian and vegan dinersAuthentic Thai flavors
Masala Magic delivers authentic Indian flavors that transport diners straight to India, a welcome oasis in Chiang Mai. Chef Jacky, with his extensive background in five-star hotels, crafts dishes that are both rich and balanced, earning repeat visits from many.
🍽️90Food
💰85Value
✨78Vibe
🔊65Noise
💬
“The food was amazing, really tasty and fresh. Lots of vegetarian options, I had the butter paneer curry, rice and a delicious garlic naan.”
💬
“Excellent food, outstanding service, and first-rate people. The owner and the entire staff was extremely kind towards us, especially my one year old.”
💬
“Nice & clean restaurant. Really good taste ! Not too strong taste. Mild & perfect flavor of everything.”
Ideal for
Authentic Indian cravingsVegetarian dinersComfortable casual meals
This Chiang Mai spot offers a vast menu of flavorful vegetarian and vegan Thai dishes, with a particular talent for creating convincing mock meats. It's a family-run operation where the food is made with care, offering great value and a welcoming, if simple, atmosphere.
🍽️88Food
💰90Value
✨65Vibe
💬
“Mega delicious veg-friendly Khao Soi that comes replete with an assortment of nice faux meats (even one that resembled fatty pork?), all very tasty and filling.”
💬
“The owner is very kind and there are many delicious vegetarian dishes.”
💬
“Delicious, affordable, and with a wide variety of vegetarian options, this restaurant is highly recommended!”
Ideal for
Vegetarian and vegan diningAffordable mealsExploring mock meat dishes
Nittaya Vegetarian Restaurant offers a vast selection of flavorful, home-style Thai vegetarian dishes at incredibly low prices. This neighborhood spot is a go-to for locals seeking healthy, satisfying meals with a wide variety of options, including mock meats and desserts.
🍽️88Food
💰90Value
✨70Vibe
💬
“Excellent vegan buffet where you can get a full plate of rice and few tasty curries for 40/50 bahts, and it comes with a soup.”
💬
“The vegetarian food was delicious and varied. It was the best I've had in Chiang Mai, both fresh and frozen.”
💬
“Delicious food, vegetarian food with strong and intense flavors. For those who want full flavor, this is the place to go.”
Ideal for
Healthy eatingBudget-friendly mealsVegetarian and vegan options
This Chiang Mai institution is a lush garden oasis, offering a vast menu with a strong emphasis on healthy, vegan, and gluten-free options. It's a peaceful sanctuary with a koi pond and waterfall, perfect for lingering over a meal or browsing the attached organic shop.
🍽️88Food
💰72Value
✨92Vibe
💬
“This place was amazing and cozy. Beautiful decor and so much healthy yummy stuff in the menu.”
💬
“The breakfasts here are amazing, and don’t miss the signature turmeric almond latte.”
💬
“Such a beautiful little garden in my favourite part of the city.”
Ideal for
Healthy eatingVegan and gluten-free optionsRelaxing atmosphere
This Chiang Mai spot offers a wide array of flavorful Thai dishes, with a strong emphasis on vegan and halal options. Many diners highlight the Khao Soi and Mango Sticky Rice as particularly memorable, and the staff are well-regarded for their warmth and helpfulness. It's a reliable choice for authentic Thai flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.
🍽️88Food
💰75Value
✨78Vibe
💬
“Next to our resort, Streamed Sea Bass with lemon, Tom Yum noddle & Morning Glory is the best choice, highly recommended!!!”
💬
“Best Khao Soi I've had since I've been in Chiang Mai, it was so delicious!”
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“The food is incredibly delicious, especially the fried rice — it’s sooo good!”
Ideal for
Vegan and vegetarian diningHalal food seekersAuthentic Thai cuisine
Dada Kafe is a vibrant, healthy haven in Chiang Mai's old city, offering a vast menu of fresh, flavorful dishes and smoothies. It's a go-to for both locals and travelers seeking wholesome options with generous portions at fair prices. The friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere make it a consistently pleasant spot for any meal.
🍽️88Food
💰85Value
✨80Vibe
💬
“The whole atmoshpere makes Dada Kafe a place you will want to return to time and again. Wonderful dinner experience.”
💬
“Cracking good food for such value. Nice atmosphere and lots of choice for a veggie. Loved the pineapple egg fried rice.”
💬
“We had the Khao soi and mango sticky rice to split. The Khao Soi was delicious and the mango sticky rice was on par and the most photogenic to date!”
This vegetarian spot in Chiang Mai offers a vast menu of Thai classics, expertly veganized with impressive mock meats and fresh ingredients. It's a welcoming haven for plant-based eaters and curious omnivores alike, providing flavorful dishes at very reasonable prices.
🍽️88Food
💰88Value
✨75Vibe
🔊60Noise
💬
“This is by far one of the best vegetarian / vegan restaurants we found so far! (Even in Germany) …”
💬
“We had the Khao Soi, Boat Noodles, Vegan Chicken Skewers and the Crispy Papaya Salad, everything was absolutely delicious!”
💬
“And I've had their mock pork, mock duck, mock meatballs, tofu, and tempeh, and they've all been delicious.”
Ideal for
Vegetarian and vegan diningExploring Thai cuisineBudget-friendly meals
This Chiang Mai spot offers a compelling fusion of South Indian and Burmese flavors, with many dishes tasting like home-cooked meals. The staff are noted for their warmth and attentiveness, making it a comforting stop for those craving authentic tastes.
🍽️88Food
💰75Value
✨78Vibe
💬
“The Banana Leaf Chicken Curry set has the best chicken I've had in Thailand so far. Moist, delicious, perfectly seasoned.”
💬
“You can feel the warm, vibrant energy of the place. The music is fantastic, creating the perfect mood to enjoy authentic, flavorful Indian food.”
💬
“This place had the best tasting south Indian food ive Had for years simpel and delicious.”
Ideal for
Authentic Indian and Burmese foodComfort food cravingsVegetarian options
Salsa Kitchen delivers a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine in Chiang Mai, with massive portions and a vibrant atmosphere. It's a go-to for expats and locals alike seeking a flavorful break from Thai food, offering a wide range of options including dedicated vegan and vegetarian menus.
🍽️88Food
💰85Value
✨80Vibe
🔊65Noise
💬
“This is, in my opinion, the best Mexican restaurant in Chiang Mai. Their burritos are fantastic and they have really good salsas and guacamole.”
💬
“The food was bursting with fresh flavors, perfectly seasoned, and the portions were generous. Everything tasted homemade and made with care.”
💬
“One star off on atmosphere as it was very loud and difficult to hear. Maybe some textiles on the walls would help with the acoustics?”
Ideal for
Authentic Mexican cravingsLarge portionsVegan and vegetarian options
This cozy, plant-filled garden cafe feels like stepping into a grandmother's home, serving up authentic, fresh Thai dishes with a clear passion. It's a tranquil escape from the city bustle, offering a warm welcome and food that consistently satisfies.
🍽️88Food
💰78Value
✨90Vibe
💬
“Amazing Khao Soi soup! The best I had in Chiang Mai.”
💬
“The atmosphere is intimate, cozy, and surrounded by greenery, with plants everywhere creating a setting that feels very much like a grandmother’s garden.”
💬
“Relaxing place with jazz music in the background, no cars passing by every second, good food, kind and friendly service.”
Ideal for
Vegetarian and vegan dinersRelaxing mealHome-style cooking
This Chiang Mai spot offers a refreshing counterpoint to spicy Thai cuisine with its focus on fresh, healthy, and customizable salads and bowls. It's a reliable choice for clean eating, with a wide menu that caters to various dietary needs and preferences.
🍽️85Food
💰85Value
✨80Vibe
💬
“Popped in for lunch, had the Pumpkin Soup, amazing flavours and taste, accompanied with fried Quinoa Balls, equally tasty and delicious.”
💬
“We chose a delicious shiitake mushroom soup and made our own salad. We also enjoyed some smoothies. Excellent concept and quality.”
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“The Salad Concept is a great spot in Chiang Mai's Old City. I had a wonderful tuna and feta salad—it was really fresh and flavourful.”
Ideal for
Healthy eatingVegetarian and vegan optionsPost-workout meal
This Chiang Mai spot offers a welcome respite from Thai cuisine with its creative vegan pizzas and comfort food. Standouts include the flavorful Veatball sandwich and the well-regarded tea leaf salad, all served in a chill, welcoming atmosphere. It's a place where even non-vegans find themselves clearing their plates.
🍽️90Food
💰80Value
✨85Vibe
🛡️65Safety
💬
“Cute vegan restaurant with very nice staff. Our group came in and enjoyed the cool atmosphere and the delicious fresh coconuts for our drink.”
💬
“Best bbq jackfruit burgers and rolls in whole chiang mai town. Must come back to try the vegan pizzas.”
💬
“Totally mind-blowing food. I tried the Veatball sandwich based on the staff’s recommendation, and it was incredible.”
Ideal for
Vegan comfort foodA break from Thai cuisineCasual dining
This unassuming spot serves up intensely flavorful Thai dishes, with a particular knack for curries and a vast array of vegetarian and vegan options. The owner, who often cooks and serves solo, is known for her friendly demeanor and willingness to customize spice levels. It's a go-to for locals and visitors alike seeking authentic tastes at budget-friendly prices.
🍽️88Food
💰88Value
✨70Vibe
🧹65Hygiene
💬
“No pretentious presentation but it was the best value for money pad thai and meal I …”
💬
“Perfect mango curry. We came back after a year and it's still so tasty.”
💬
“The prices are low, the portions are the perfect size for me—this is the only place where I finish everything.”
Ideal for
Budget-friendly mealsVegetarian and vegan optionsAuthentic Thai flavors
This family-run spot offers a taste of authentic Chiang Mai cuisine, with many dishes available in vegetarian options. It's a charming place that feels genuinely local, serving up flavorful meals at very reasonable prices.
🍽️85Food
💰88Value
✨80Vibe
💬
“I would give extra star for service if I could. Food was delicious. The young lady that helped me was kind and swift.”
💬
“The seating arrangement and atmosphere was perfect and the food … the best food I’ve had in Thailand …”
💬
“The Khao Soi is excellent, the value is great, and the atmosphere is lovely in a quiet soi.”
Bodhi Tree Cafe offers a tranquil escape with a focus on fresh, organic vegetarian and vegan Thai cuisine. It's a place where the owner's warmth permeates the atmosphere, making it a go-to for healthy, flavorful meals and even cooking classes.
🍽️88Food
💰80Value
✨85Vibe
⏰55Wait
💬
“This is one of my favorite spots in Chiang Mai! They have incredible authentic vegan and vegetarian Thai food.”
💬
“Absolutely delicious and fresh vegan food! Staff is attentive and very friendly. Every dish we had was perfect.”
💬
“Tonight, we stepped away from the bustle of the Night Market into a quiet side street to find Bodhi.”
Ideal for
Healthy eatingVegetarian and vegan optionsCooking classes
This Chiang Mai spot offers a vast menu of flavorful vegan and vegetarian Thai dishes, with many diners highlighting unique ancient recipes. While the food is generally known for its freshness and generous portions, some recent reception points to inconsistencies in taste and sweetness levels.
🍽️85Food
💰68Value
✨80Vibe
⏰60Wait
💬
“The atmosphere is very upscale, lol. The restaurant is beautifully decorated and very happy. Perfect for hosting guests. ❤️❤️❤️”
💬
“Super friendly and attentive staff. The food was amazing, and we'd love to come back ❤️”
💬
“Super clean. And can I mention that the toilet experience is amazing …”
Ideal for
Vegetarian and vegan dinersExploring unique Thai dishesCasual meals
This ramen spot offers a wide variety of flavorful broths, with many diners highlighting the rich beef bone marrow and vegan black garlic options. It's a popular, bustling spot known for its affordability and late-night hours, making it a go-to for a satisfying meal.
🍽️80Food
💰88Value
✨75Vibe
🛡️55Safety
💬
“Amazing beef and vegan ramen. Good price and a big portion. It was super tasty and delicious!”
💬
“The Beef Marrow Ramen with black garlic and spicy oil were amazing! Also, super kind and lovely staff, as well as great music (80s mostly) being played.”
💬
“The vegetarian broth is simple yet superior to all similar options I have tried in Japan, not to mention that it is very cheap.”
