Best Khao Soi in Chiang Mai: My Picks

Khao Soi in Chiang Mai is hands down my favorite Thai dish, and honestly, one of my top three dishes in the world.

As someone who’s eaten their way across Thailand more times than I can count, that wasn’t an easy decision. But after years of chasing flavors and comparing bowls across the country, this one reigns supreme.

Funny enough, I didn’t try Khao Soi until my first trip to Chiang Mai. Even though I’d been to other parts of Thailand before, I purposely held off because I wanted my very first bowl to be in the place where it was born, Northern Thailand. It just felt right. And it turns out, my instincts were spot on.

Over the years, I’ve slurped my way through more bowls of Chiang Mai curry noodles than I care to admit. Some were silky smooth and perfectly spiced, others… not so much.

But that’s exactly why this guide exists. I’ve done the tasting (and retasting) to find the best spots serving up this rich, coconut-laced noodle soup.

If you’re planning your time in the city, don’t miss my full breakdown of what to see, eat, and do in this detailed Chiang Mai itinerary.

Whether you’re a first-timer or you’ve already fallen in love with this northern Thai specialty, this list will help you navigate the real Khao Soi gems in Chiang Mai, no tourist traps, no filler, just deep bowls of flavor worth your time (and baht).

Khao Soi Lamduan

Tucked just north of Chiang Mai’s trendy Nimman area, Khao Soi Lamduan is a bit off the usual tourist track, but trust me, it’s worth the detour.

This local gem sits right off the highway, which might not sound glamorous, but that’s part of its charm. It’s the kind of place where you’ll find more locals than bloggers, and that’s always a good sign.

I first found it through the Michelin Guide, and I’ve been back at least five or six times since. Scratch that, I’ve even eaten here twice in one day. It’s that good.

What keeps me coming back is the consistency. Every single bowl hits the mark: creamy coconut curry broth, just the right hint of spice, and ultra-crispy egg noodles on top that actually have color and crunch. And one can’t forget to mention the perfect tender beef.

The pickled greens, lime, and red onions come standard on the side, nothing fancy, just done right. And the owner? Super friendly. He once raised his eyebrows watching how much chili I added to my bowl.

This place isn’t all over the Chiang Mai travel forums, probably because of its highway location, but that’s a mistake. If you’re serious about trying some of the best Khao Soi in Chiang Mai, you must visit.

Khao Soi Khuan Yai

Another must-try bowl of Khao Soi in Chiang Mai comes from the humble but beloved Khao Soi Khun Yai, conveniently located just along the northern edge of the Old City.

This isn’t some trendy fusion café, it’s a classic, come-and-go kind of spot where you grab your bowl, take a seat, and let the flavors do the talking.

The noodles? Soft and tender underneath, with a crunchy topping that’s thin and delicate. Personally, I prefer a thicker crunch, but at this point, I’m basically a Khao Soi snob.

The broth is rich and balanced, and the meat (I usually go for beef or chicken) is generously portioned without overpowering the bowl.

It’s easy to miss this place if you’re walking by, it’s tucked into a small lot, almost like a semi-covered food court. Once inside, the setup is simple: order at the front, grab a shaded seat, and your bowl will arrive shortly with the usual pickled greens, onions, and lime on the side.

Heads-up: their opening hours are tight, roughly 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, so timing your visit matters. Come early to avoid the lunch rush, because seating fills fast, and it can get hectic during peak hours.

Bonus points for variety: they offer chicken, pork, and beef options, plus a spicy broth version if you’re craving more heat. The Thai milk tea is great here too, and if you’re adventurous, try the longan or lotus juices, both surprisingly refreshing.

Khao Soi Lung Prakit

This spot is frequently debated among both locals and travelers as the best Khao Soi in Chiang Mai, and honestly, I get why. Khao Soi Lung Prakit delivers the kind of flavor that sticks with you long after the last spoonful.

When you arrive, the first thing you’ll notice are the massive metal cylinders filled with creamy, aromatic broth, ready to be ladled fresh into your bowl. It’s a good sign, and a hint that they don’t mess around.

The meat here is fall-off-the-bone tender, whether you go for chicken or beef, and the portion is generous without being overwhelming. The broth has a slightly spicier kick than most, so take note if you’re not big on heat. I personally love spicy food, and this one hit just the right level without overpowering the flavor.

They’ve earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand three years in a row, so if you like to follow the food guide trail, this spot deserves a pin on your map. I’ve been here twice, and both times the flavor, consistency, and service were right on point.

Oh, and if you’re feeling adventurous, they also serve a beef noodle soup that’s worth a try. It’s not Khao Soi, but it’s still tasty and makes for a solid second bowl if you’re really hungry.

Khao Soi Arak

Absolutely delicious, this is the kind of Khao Soi spot I live for!

Khao Soi Arak is a humble, mom-and-pop, family-run joint nestled in the Old City. No frills, no tourist flash, just incredible food at great prices. The menu is short, sweet, and laser-focused, exactly how I like it.

I’ve eaten here more times than I can count, mainly because it’s not far from the Muay Thai gym I train at, and partly because the food is just that good. You’ve got three choices: chicken, pork, or beef. No fluff, just perfectly tender meat and a bowl full of joy.

The broth? Rich, creamy, and a bit thicker than most, which is exactly how I prefer it. It leans slightly on the spicy side, so be ready for a bit of a kick. The crispy noodles on top are thick and crunchy (my kind of style), and it comes with the usual side of pickled greens, red onion, and lime.

Khao Soi Arak is a go-to if you’re craving a great bowl without the tourist crowds. It’s not some tourist hotspot; it’s a local gem where the focus is all on flavor.

Oh, and since I’m a food nut, let me throw this in: just a minute away is SP Chicken, a Michelin-rated charcoal chicken spot that usually sells out before 2 or 3 PM. If you’re in the area, make the extra stop, you won’t regret it.

Khao Soi Maesai

This was actually one of the first bowls of Khao Soi I ever had in Chiang Mai a few years back, and let me just say this: prepare to line up.

Khao Soi Maesai has earned multiple Michelin mentions over the years, and the crowds reflect that. You’ll spot the line before you even see the sign.

Locals and tourists alike will tell you this is the best Khao Soi in Chiang Mai. Personally? I don’t agree, but I do agree it’s really, really good.

The broth is flavorful, the noodles are crisped to perfection, and the sides, pickled greens, red onions, and lime, are just right. It’s a bit chaotic inside, especially during peak hours, but that’s all part of the charm.

What sets Khao Soi Maesai apart a bit is the variety. The menu features nine different dishes, including four Khao Soi variations (I’ve tried two), a couple of beef stews, and some other bowls I’ve yet to explore. But let’s be real: when I’m on a Khao Soi mission, I’m not getting distracted.

They also serve a solid Thai milk tea and a few juice options if you want something refreshing while you wait.

Speaking of waiting, expect at least 15 to 25 minutes, especially during lunch. If you’re only in Chiang Mai for a short time, I’d say there are stronger contenders for your one or two bowls.

But if you’ve got a few extra days, Khao Soi Maesai is absolutely worth fitting into your itinerary.

Kao Soy Nimman

I’ll admit it, I had a bit of a bias before walking into Kao Soy Nimman. I remember scrolling through the Google reviews, seeing polished photos that made the place look… well, a little too sleek for my taste.

I’m usually the type who prefers grandma-run joints on the roadside, bowls sloshed full of flavor without a thought for presentation. That rugged, no-frills charm is what I live for when it comes to food in Thailand.

So when my bowl of Khao Soi arrived here, perfectly plated with sprigs of cilantro, crisp noodles stacked like art, and everything just looking too polished, I honestly wanted to dislike it.

But here’s the thing: I couldn’t. From the first spoonful, it was obvious they knew what they were doing.

The broth was ultra-creamy and rich, the noodles were perfectly crispy, and the tender meat (though I did wish for just a bit more of it) balanced the dish nicely. Presentation aside, this Khao Soi delivered in flavor, and that’s what really counts.

Located right in the heart of the Nimman area, Kao Soy Nimman leans upscale compared to most spots on this list, but still keeps the soul of the dish intact. I’ve only eaten here once so far (I tend to stick with my longtime favorites), but I’d return in a heartbeat, not just for their Khao Soi, but to try more of their Thai dishes too.

Khao Soi Doi Nang

Another exceptional bowl of Khao Soi in Chiang Mai, and a spot that’s quietly earning its place in the city’s food scene.

Located just east of the Old City and not too far from the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar area, Khao Soi Doi Nang is a must-visit if you’re staying on that side of town.

The restaurant itself has a slightly more polished look than your average roadside bowl stop, but it still keeps that homey, mom-and-pop vibe I always appreciate.

I’ve chatted with the owner a couple of times, he’s half Thai, half Chinese, and he shared how they’ve been building up their local following over the past few years. And after eating here, I can see why.

The Khao Soi is rich and simple, just how it should be. You’ve got your classic protein options: pork, chicken, and beef, and they also offer a non-Khao Soi noodle soup if you’re feeling like switching it up. The beef meatballs here are especially good, tender, flavorful, and a great match for the creamy broth.

They even let you choose between two noodle types, which is a slight touch but a nice one for those of us who eat Khao Soi like it’s a full-time job.

It’s clean, quick, cheap, and seriously delicious. If you’re on the eastern end of the city and craving a no-fuss bowl, Khao Soi Doi Nang should be at the top of your list.

Khao Soi Islam Restaurant

Let me start by saying this, Khao Soi Islam is easily one of my favorite restaurants in Chiang Mai. Sure, it lands a little lower on this specific Khao Soi ranking, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth your time. In fact, I’d argue it’s a must-visit, especially if you’re exploring the Muslim Quarter on the eastern side of the city.

Now, I’ve had their Khao Soi more than once, and while it’s solid, I’ll be honest, for me, it’s slightly overshadowed by the rest of their incredible menu.

But that’s a good problem to have. This is one of those rare spots where almost everything is worth ordering, and it’s no wonder the place has built a loyal following over the years.

The Khao Soi itself? Rich, comforting, with your choice of halal beef or chicken. It’s a great option if you’re newer to the dish or prefer a slightly cleaner, less intense flavor. But if you’re like me and constantly chasing Khao Soi perfection, you may find other bowls in town a bit more exciting.

What really steals the show here is the beef and chicken satay, and don’t even get me started on the lamb biryani, it’s unreal. The prices are affordable, the atmosphere is local and welcoming, and the kitchen knows exactly what they’re doing.

Types of Khao Soi

Khao Soi is a rich, creamy coconut curry noodle soup that originated in Northern Thailand, though variations can also be found in Myanmar and Laos. It’s a layered dish, literally.

First comes the slightly chewy egg noodles swimming in that signature curry broth, followed by tender meat (often chicken or beef), and finally, the crispy fried noodles on top for texture.

But it doesn’t stop there. On the side, you’ll typically get lime, pickled mustard greens, and raw shallots, essential condiments that round out the bowl and let you customize each bite.

While the base recipe remains consistent, different types of Khao Soi have emerged based on the meat, broth style, and regional tweaks.

Here are the most common types you’ll come across in Chiang Mai and beyond:

• Khao Soi Gai: Chicken Khao Soi, and the most popular version by far

• Khao Soi Nua: Made with slow-cooked beef, often fall-off-the-bone tender

• Khao Soi Moo: A pork version that’s less common but found in some spots

• Khao Soi Seafood: Shrimp or squid versions, usually seen in more experimental or modern eateries
  
• Khao Soi Vegan/Vegetarian: Coconut curry with tofu or mock meat, rising in popularity at plant-based restaurants
  
• Dry Khao Soi: A drier take with the same flavor notes but little to no broth

Khao Soi Condiments

Khao Soi is already a knockout dish on its own, but the condiments are where you can really customize the flavor.

Some are meant to be mixed into the broth, while others are best eaten on the side to balance each bite. But please, FIRST try the broth before doing anything to it!

Here are the typical condiments that come with your bowl:

• Thai roasted chili paste: Brings serious heat and depth

• Fresh lime wedges: Adds acidity and brightness

• Sugar or salt: Balances bitterness or sharpness, depending on your taste

• Pickled mustard greens: Sour and crunchy, perfect for resetting your palate

• Red onions: Sharp and fresh, often eaten on the side,but feel free to toss them in

I’ve seen (and done) just about every combo, some go all in, others keep it simple. That’s part of the fun with Khao Soi: there’s no one way to eat it. You make it your own.

Final Thoughts on Eating Khao Soi in Chiang Mai

Some of the Khao Soi spots I mentioned above have earned a shoutout from the Michelin Guide, and honestly, whoever made that list knows what they’re doing.

I’ve been to nearly every popular Khao Soi place in Chiang Mai, some multiple times, and let me tell you, I’ve absolutely done the 2-3 Khao Soi bowls in a single day thing. No regrets.

Writing this article? Torture. Because every part of me is craving Khao Soi right now and I can’t have any.

This dish is exceptionally delicious. It’s not just my favorite Thai dish, it’s one of my top three dishes in the world, period. And it’s not just popular because it’s trendy. Khao Soi’s magic comes from the complexity of the broth, the contrast of textures, and the final step where you get to fine-tune it with condiments.

By the way, TasteAtlas recently ranked it the best soup in the world, which… fair, though I’d argue Khao Soi isn’t just a soup. It’s a hybrid of textures, spice, and comfort in a bowl.

If you’re on the hunt for more budget-friendly flavor bombs while you’re in town, check out my guide to some cheap eats in Chiang Mai.

One last thing, if you’re reading this from outside of Thailand and thinking, “I’ll try it at home,” just know… it won’t be the same. I’ve had Khao Soi in a few other countries, and even though it’s my Thai favorite, I don’t even bother ordering it outside of Thailand anymore. It always a Khao Soi letdown.

So if you’re heading to Chiang Mai, trust me, make room in your stomach and schedule. Whether you’re just arriving and figuring out how to get from the airport into the city or deciding where to stay in Chiang Mai, this dish deserves both.