Home to many digital nomads in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is quickly becoming one of the country’s top places to visit. From the fresh mountainous breeze, ancient temples, lively night markets, and tonnes of eateries, it’s no surprise that many are flocking to Chiang Mai. In fact, this laid-back part of Thailand is home to some of the pretties cafes and restaurants, with ambience and decor that will light up your social media page.
1. Fern & Forest Cafe
If you’re looking for a cafe in lush greenery but not too far from Chiang Mai’s town centre — look no further. At Fern & Forest Cafe, you can expect to enjoy delicious desserts and all sorts of cafe delicacies.
A couple runs this little nook and offers fresh brews that will have any coffee-lover making ‘heart-eyes’. Their pastries are pretty stellar too, and we hear the fluffy carrot cake is a must-try.
Address: 54, 1 Singharat Rd, Si Phum Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
2. No. 39 Cafe & Yakiniku
While in Chiang Mai, why not check out No. 39 Cafe & Yakiniku? This is a place that not only oozes a chilled ambience, but its setting will definitely make your social media followers do a double take.
Imagine this: Sipping on a refreshing drink while your loved ones grill up some yakiniku, and there’s live music playing in the background. Talk about a perfect outing! If you’re not into yakiniku, don’t worry, because there’s plenty of cafe-type food on the menu.
Address: 39 Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
3. Ai Nara Cafe
Of all the cafes and restaurants on this list, this is definitely one of my favourites. I mean, the beauty of this Japanese countryside-like cafe in Chiang Mai is truly breathtaking.
Serving mainly beverages and some cakes, the cafe encourages guests to chill out and enjoy the magnificent views of the mountains and paddy fields. There are so many picturesque spots at this cafe you’ll find it hard to choose just one pretty backdrop for your next Instagram post.
Address: Pong Yaeng, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180, Thailand
4. Mon Ing Dao Cafe
Looking for a therapeutic setting with a killer view? Check out Mon Ing Dao Cafe. Situated near Ai Nara Cafe and set on a mountaintop, you can expect plenty of photo opportunities here. But while you’re there, slow down and enjoy the surrounding views and the cafe’s delicious drinks! Their Thai Iced Tea is a must-try!
Address: เลขที่ 00 หมู่ 7 หมู่บ้าน หนองหอยเก่า แม่แรม Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180, Thailand
5. Chom Cafe & Restaurant
Serving yummy stir-fried dishes, tasty salads, and sharing platters, we love how quaint Chom Cafe & Restaurant is. Its gorgeous garden setting exudes proper Alice in Wonderland vibes.
It goes without saying that this rainforest cafe really highlights Chiang Mai’s beautiful nature. Both Thai and Western fare are available, but besides their mains, we suggest making room for their delectable desserts too!
Address: 2 13 ม.2 Somphot Chiang Mai 700 Pi Rd, Mae Hia, เมือง Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
6. Atlantis Valley
Atlantis Valley at Mae Lai Village is reminiscent of wooden cabins often seen in horror movies, though it is anything but scary. In fact, it’s pretty charming and the perfect place to sip on some tea and snap some photos for your social media feed!
On weekdays, when it’s not as busy, you can have a quiet moment by the river. If you are a digital nomad working on the go, there’s free Wi-Fi available and a workspace to rent by the hour.
Address: 64 หมู่ที่ 2 บ้านแม่ลาย Huai Kaeo, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50130, Thailand
7. Pang Pao Beach
Shifting away from forest and nature, Pang Pao Beach gives you a vibe similar to a beach club in Bali. Put on your sun hats and take your pick on where’s best to strike a pose, because just about every corner is a photo op! But don’t just come for the photos; stay for the food too, as there is plenty on the menu to sample.
Address: 152 Ki Lek, Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai 50150, Thailand
8. Ganesha Cafe & Farm
The colourful Ganesha Cafe and Farm is a fairly new attraction located next to a paddy field and is named after Lord Ganesha. You can even pray to him and make an offering while you’re here. Dine in colourful and individual huts before making your way to the farm, where animals like ducks, piglets, goats, and more await.
As it’s a 45-minute from Chiang Mai city centre, we suggest spending half a day here to take in the sights, sounds, and colours. Of course, don’t leave without snapping some photos and videos. Because photos or it never happened!
Address: เลขที่ 111 บ้านร้อง หมู่8 ถนน ทางหลวงแผ่นดินหมายเลข1013 Yu Wa, San Pa Tong District, Chiang Mai 50120, Thailand
