Food is definitely a highlight of any trip to Thailand, and Chiang Mai offers an excellent selection of good value restaurants. Some of the top restaurants in Chiang Mai rival those in Bangkok, but at half the price, and you can find affordable eateries of both Thai and international cuisines all across the city.
Wandering the old town or Night Market area, you’ll encounter all sorts of al-fresco or air-conditioned choices, and the northerners take particular pride in ambience; often laying on discreet live music. The riverside area provides a particularly romantic atmosphere, but you needn’t venture far to get a quick bite at a pavement noodle shop. Northern Thailand also has its own distinctive spicy cuisine… more on local specialties.