Okay, friends. If you read my recent article about Chiang Mai, you know I immensely enjoyed my time in Northern Thailand. And now that I have visited Pai, I would say your northern Thia trip is incomplete without spending some time here. This charming bohemian town is a winding bus ride 3.5 hours northwest of Chiang Mai. With a name like Pai, don’t you want to go? 🥧 There is so much to behold, from the temples, art, live music, eclectic folks, scenic vistas and of course ~ the food! We could gush about Pai adventures all day. However, this article is to dish out the best food in Pai!
Pai began as a small, remote market village in the mountains of northern Thailand, primarily inhabited by Shan people and various hill tribes. Between the 80s and 90s, it started gaining popularity among backpackers and travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination. The town’s serene natural beauty, relaxed atmosphere and affordability attracted many artists, musicians and free-spirits. This gradually transformed Pai into a bohemian hub known for its vibrant art scene, food, eclectic cafes, incredible live music and laid-back lifestyle. Today, Pai maintains its down-to-earth charm while offering rich cultural experiences, making it a favorite spot for those looking to unwind and explore this creative side of Thailand.
Rach and I eat primarily plant-based. Because of this, we fall even harder for cities with veg-heads in mind. Pai is one of the most plant-forward cities I have visited. For every meaty dish served at a restaurant or street stall, there is an equally as compelling plant-based option. With all these dishes available and Thai food being one of my favorite cuisines, I was in foodie heaven. This list is based on where I ate, even though there are many more stones to turn in future visits. So, let’s dive into the best food I ate in Pai!
Best Food in Pai
Restaurants in Town
• Ganita Cafe – with its tagline ‘earth friendly food for everyone!’ they are certainly delivering on this promise. From sweet treats, bakery items, bowls, salads, scrambles, curries and more, all made from scratch ~ you can feel the love here. I felt so energized and satiated after tasting their Buddha Bowl. I was happy I grabbed a few cookies for the road before leaving.
• Charlie & Lek – this is a simple family-run restaurant. Grab your utensils, water and spice caddy while sitting down. The menu is extensive, and in my experience, there is no wrong choice. The first time I visited, I ordered their Tom Kha with veggies and tofu. This is one of the most perfect bowls of soup I have eaten. So much so that I ordered it 2-3 more times during my stay in Pai. Go hungry and enjoy the community pinboards full of all the local happs while you wait for your food. I also felt very comfortable working on my laptop here.
• Ci Xin Jai – when you want to taste a few dishes on one plate, head to this Thai / Chinese plant-based buffet. They offer colorful vegetable dishes, stir-fried noodles, spring rolls, fried mushrooms and soup options. I savored each bite of my plate filled with all their green options ☺️ The pricing is based on how many dishes you choose and is incredibly budget-friendly!
• Witching Well Restaurant & Wine Bar – if you want to switch things up, head to Withcing Well’s charming patio. Enjoy their lovely Italian bites and wonderfully curated wines. Their white wine by the glass was delicious. The owner is a spirited Italian, which always makes for fun conversation.
• Free Bird Cafe Pai – visit Free Bird for fresh vegetarian Burmese & Thai plates. I ordered the Shan Creamy Tofu Salad and have been dreaming of it ever since. Beyond tasty food, they also operate as a social enterprise, with all profits supporting local education and empowerment projects for refugees and marginalized communities in Northern Thailand and Myanmar. 🤗 If you are spending time in Chiang Mai visit their flagship location there too!
Open Air Food Markets
• Pai Walking Street and Night Market – an obligatory mention when chatting about the best food in Pai! This colorful street comes alive in the evenings. It is filled with eclectic food stalls and local products that capture the essence of Pai’s creativity. You’ll be swooned by the aromas of freshly cooked Thai + international street food, the sounds of live music and the vibrant energy of locals and travelers mingling. Some food highlights were the Burmese food, falafel, spicy noodles, veg sushi and tofu pad Thai stalls. It’s a 1km outdoor restaurant and social gathering!
• Pai Saturday Market – spending Saturday morning here is an excellent beginning to weekend activities. The atmosphere is more relaxed than the night market, as there are fewer vendors. Also, the setting is in a park where families and friends are picnicking + enjoying the sights, food and each other. Don’t skip the vibrant Buddha bowl and fresh roll stand. This food was bursting with flavor which made it unforgettable. Head to the hip shops across the street near the clock tower after the market.
Outside of Town
• Thai Zen Organic Farm – this is one of those restaurants where you feel the pure intention and devotion to food right when you walk in. They serve some of the best salads in Pai in a serene farm setting. I loved eating their Khao Yam in the elevated open-air gazebo. You can scooter here or enjoy a walk in the countryside to Zen Organic.
Pro tip ~ The Long Neck Karen Village is up the road. A visit there would be an enriching cultural post-lunch activity.
• Jaey – talk about another restaurant with a view! When you visit the bamboo village in Pai, stop at Jaey for a cold drink or snack. Sitting on the second story, I was mesmerized by watching the clouds float in and out of the surrounding rice fields. It is something you have to see with your own eyes!
Pro tip ~ When exploring the bamboo village, follow the walkways back to the Pavilion of Happiness. Along the way, you’ll discover peaceful, secluded sitting areas and temples, perfect for moments of gratitude and reflection.
Cafes
Pai has no shortage of whimsical cafes that will entice you to stay a while and slow down your day. For me, the ones below offered something extra special.
• Rainy Cafe – I can confidently say I have become an iced coffee connoisseur in Asia. At Rainy Cafe, they made some of the best I have had. Try both their coconut iced coffee made with fresh coconut milk and their coco iced coffee made with fresh coconut water and topped with coconut meat. These drinks showcase how fresh ingredients make all the difference. They sent my tastebuds into a tailspin. The food looked good here too, but I was busy sipping my coffee slowly.
• Sweet Art Cafe – set just outside of town in a cute neighborhood. Their intention here goes beyond coffee. You can rent a paint kit and embrace your inner artist or hang with a book in the pillow pile upstairs. If you need a little more guidance check out their weekly art class schedule. Sweet treats and plant milk are available ~ swoon.
Tip ~ if you are heading this way, don’t miss visiting Wat Si Don Chai. This Buddhist temple’s intricate art and decor are a site for sore eyes.
• Romance Farm & Cafe – this IG worthy spot blends a charming cafe experience with the tranquility of a working farm. Nestled amidst a lush hillside, the serene atmosphere allows visitors to enjoy freshly brewed coffee & tea, homemade pastries and a variety of Thai and Western dishes. Beyond food & drinks, you can explore the grounds, interact with the animals, take a farm tour and soak in the nature that Pai is renowned for. It is safe to say I was romanced at Romance! I visited two days in a row, the second time making sure to clear my day and bring a book.
Enamored in Pai
I was definitely enamored in Pai. Some cities have a flow and energy completely in sync with yours. That’s how I felt in Pai, we were in harmony. The icing on the cake was the daily live music in the evenings. Local and international musicians flock here to play. You can enjoy the music during your evening strolls even if you don’t feel like hanging at a venue. It is like an outdoor concert ~ what a treat. If you feel like venturing in, my favorite joints were Jazz House and Supermoon.
You really can make your time in Pai your own. Whether you visit for the healing arts, yoga, food, nature, moto adventures or music. Pai welcomes you to come as you are, relax and enjoy its offerings however you wish. I appreciate this quality in a city. I hope this food guide helps you hit the town running as you discover the best food in Pai, Thailand!
Happy eating,
Bekah
PS ~ Don’t miss our ‘7 must visit spots in Pai’ article here! Between these two articles, your Pai itinerary is en fuego 🔥
