Khao Soi Khun Yai Chiang Mai: A Must-Visit for Thai Food Lovers

If you’re a fan of Thai food, then you’ve probably heard of khao soi – the rich and flavorful noodle dish that originates from the northern region of Thailand. And if you happen to find yourself in Chiang Mai, there’s one place that stands out when it comes to serving up the best khao soi in town – Khao Soi Khun Yai Thai Restaurant.

This family-run restaurant has been delighting locals and tourists alike with their mouth-watering rendition of khao soi for over three decades.

From the fragrant coconut curry broth to the crispy egg noodles and tender chicken, every bite at Khao Soi Khun Yai is a burst of authentic Thai flavors. So if you’re planning a trip to Chiang Mai, make sure to add Khao Soi Khun Yai to your must-visit list.

Khao Soi Khun Yai Chiang Mai Highlights

At Khao Soi Khun Yai, visitors can expect to experience an array of memorable highlights:

• A focus on authenticity: This eatery is family-owned, maintaining traditional recipes and techniques that have been passed down through generations.
• Signature dish: Khao soi, a rich coconut curry noodle dish, is a must-try here. It is made with a fragrant mix of spices, crispy egg noodles, and tender chicken, serving a burst of authentic Thai flavors.
• Exceptional service: The friendly staff provides attentive service, ensuring that every diner feels welcome and satisfied.
• Local ingredients: The restaurant uses only the freshest ingredients sourced from local markets, enhancing the taste of each dish.
• Convenient location: Nestled in the heart of Chiang Mai, it’s an easy stop for tourists exploring the city.
• Value for money: Despite its popularity, prices at Khao Soi Khun Yai remain reasonable, allowing diners to indulge without breaking the bank.
• Unique ambiance: The eatery offers a simple yet inviting atmosphere, providing a perfect setting to relish the flavors of northern Thailand.

Khao Soi Khun Yai Chiang Mai Location

Khao Soi Khun Yai is conveniently nestled in the heart of Chiang Mai, making it an accessible destination for both locals and tourists. The exact address is Sri Poom 8 Alley, just inside the north gate of the old city. Whether you’re exploring the city’s ancient temples, shopping at the local markets, or enjoying the vibrant nightlife, this restaurant is only a short walk or drive away.

How to Get to Khao Soi Khun Yai Chiang Mai

Getting to Khao Soi Khun Yai Thai Restaurant in Chiang Mai is a breeze, thanks to its central location and the city’s well-developed transport system. Here are a few ways you can reach this renowned eatery:

• Walking: If you’re staying within the Old City, you can easily reach Khao Soi Khun Yai on foot. It’s located just inside the north gate, making it a convenient stopover during your city exploration.
• By Taxi or Grab: Taxis are readily available throughout the city. You can also book a ride via Grab, Southeast Asia’s popular ride-hailing app. Just input ‘Khao Soi Khun Yai’ as your destination.
• By Songthaew (Red Truck): These shared taxis are a common mode of transport in Chiang Mai. Simply tell the driver you want to go to ‘Khao Soi Khun Yai.’
• By Tuk-Tuk: For a more authentic Thai experience, you can ride a tuk-tuk. Be sure to negotiate the fare before you start your journey.

With these options, reaching Khao Soi Khun Yai is easy and convenient, ensuring you can savor their famous khao soi without any travel hassle.

Khao Soi Khun Yai Chiang Mai Timings

Khao Soi Khun Yai operates six days a week, from Monday to Saturday. They open their doors early, welcoming customers from 10:00 AM and serve their last bowl of khao soi at 2:00 PM. The restaurant is closed on Sundays. It’s advisable to get there early, as they often sell out due to their popularity.

Best Time to Visit Khao Soi Khun Yai Chiang Mai

While Khao Soi Khun Yai Thai Restaurant opens its doors to customers from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Monday to Saturday, there are some ideal times to visit for the best experience:

• Early bird advantage: Arrive right when they open to avoid long lines and ensure you get a serving of their famous khao soi. Remember, they often sell out early!
• Weekdays: Try to visit during the weekdays. Chiang Mai is a popular tourist destination, and the restaurant can get particularly busy during weekends.
• Lunchtime rush: Avoid visiting during the peak lunch hours (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM) if you want a more relaxed and less crowded dining experience.
• Rainy season: If you’re visiting Chiang Mai between May and November, expect intermittent showers. However, this can be the perfect time to enjoy a bowl of warming khao soi.
• Before closing time: If you prefer a quieter ambiance, consider visiting an hour or so before closing time, but keep in mind that some menu items might already be sold out.

These tips will help you plan your visit to Khao Soi Khun Yai and maximize your dining experience.

Khao Soi Khun Yai Chiang Mai Fees

Dining at Khao Soi Khun Yai offers great value for money. Prices for their dishes range from 35-50 Thai Baht, making it an affordable culinary delight. The cost-effective pricing allows everyone, from backpackers to luxury travelers, to enjoy the authentic khao soi experience. Keep in mind that the restaurant only accepts cash payments.

Khao Soi Khun Yai Chiang Mai Menu

The menu at Khao Soi Khun Yai may be concise, but it is packed with traditional Thai flavours. Each dish is carefully prepared using family recipes and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The star of the show, of course, is the khao soi, but there are other tasty options to try as well.

• Khao Soi: This is the restaurant’s signature dish and a must-try for visitors. You can choose between chicken, beef, or pork for the protein. The rich, aromatic coconut curry broth is packed with spices, crispy egg noodles, and tender meat, offering an explosion of flavours with each bite.

Other Menu Options

• Tom Yum Soup: A hot and sour soup, flavored with fragrant herbs like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal. It perfectly balances spicy, sweet, sour, and savory flavors.
• Pad Thai: The classic Thai stir-fried noodle dish, made with rice noodles, tofu, bean sprouts, peanuts, and a tangy tamarind sauce.
• Green Curry: A vibrant and spicy curry made with green chilies, coconut milk, bamboo shoots, and your choice of meat.
• Fried Rice: Traditional Thai-style fried rice, stir-fried with egg, vegetables, and your choice of chicken, pork, or shrimp.

Drinks and Desserts

• Thai Iced Tea: A refreshing drink made from strongly brewed tea, sweetened with sugar and condensed milk, served chilled with lots of ice.
• Mango Sticky Rice: A classic Thai dessert, featuring sweet ripe mango served alongside sticky rice that’s been cooked in sweetened coconut milk.

Each dish at Khao Soi Khun Yai Chiang Mai is carefully prepared, making every meal a culinary adventure.

What to Expect at Khao Soi Khun Yai Chiang Mai

Stepping into Khao Soi Khun Yai, you will be greeted by a welcoming and homely atmosphere that captures the essence of traditional Thai dining. Here’s what you can expect:

• **Simple yet charming setting:** The decor is modest and unpretentious, focusing on providing a comfortable and authentic dining experience.
• **Bustling ambiance:** As a popular spot among locals and tourists, the restaurant is always buzzing with activity. The air is filled with the tantalizing aroma of simmering coconut curry and the sounds of lively chatter.
• **Straightforward ordering process:** The menu is concise and easy to navigate, with the khao soi being the undisputed star. Feel free to ask the friendly staff for recommendations.
• **Quick service:** Despite the crowd, the service at Khao Soi Khun Yai is prompt. The staff work efficiently to ensure that your food arrives hot and fresh, minimizing wait time.
• **Communal dining:** In line with Thai tradition, meals are often shared, encouraging a sense of community. You might find yourself striking up a conversation with fellow diners at the communal tables.
• **Cash-only transactions:** Remember to carry sufficient cash, as they do not accept cards.

So, brace yourself for an authentic Thai culinary journey at Khao Soi Khun Yai, where every visit is an exciting gastronomic adventure.

Signature Dish – The Best Khao Soi in Chiang Mai

What truly sets Khao Soi Khun Yai apart is their signature dish – the Khao Soi. The culinary team at the restaurant starts preparing the Khao Soi early each morning to ensure the flavors have plenty of time to blend together.

The curry broth has a smooth, velvety texture that’s rich yet not overly heavy. What makes it stand out is the perfectly balanced mix of spices – there’s just the right amount of heat, complemented by a gentle sweetness from the coconut milk.

The dish is generously filled with crispy egg noodles that add a delightful crunch, contrasting beautifully with the tender chicken that melts in your mouth.

Each serving of Khao Soi is garnished with fresh lime, pickled mustard greens, and shallots on the side, which diners can add to their liking. The result is a dish that’s bursting with flavor, comforting, and satisfying all at once.

It’s no wonder that many visitors proclaim it to be the best Khao Soi in Chiang Mai. If you’re on the quest for an authentic taste of northern Thai cuisine, a visit to Khao Soi Khun Yai would undoubtedly prove rewarding.

Authentic Thai Flavor Paired with Local Ingredients

One of the reasons why Khao Soi Khun Yai is a favorite among Thai food enthusiasts is its dedication to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Every morning, the team carefully selects the highest-quality produce from Chiang Mai’s bustling markets, ensuring that every dish is vibrant and flavorful.

Fresh coconut milk, aromatic herbs, fragrant spices, crisp vegetables, and top-quality meats all make their way into the Khun Yai kitchen, which are then transformed into mouth-watering dishes like the signature khao soi and other Thai classics.

It’s this commitment to freshness and quality that sets Khao Soi Khun Yai apart from many other eateries. The locally-sourced ingredients contribute to each dish’s authentic taste and support the local economy, making your dining experience all the more satisfying.

So when you visit Khao Soi Khun Yai, you’re not just indulging in an authentic Thai meal; you’re also savoring the rich and diverse flavors of Chiang Mai itself.

The Warm and Hospitable Staff

One of the distinctive aspects of dining at Khao Soi Khun Yai is the genuine warmth and hospitality extended by the staff. From the moment you step through the door, you are made to feel like a part of the family.

Despite the restaurant’s bustling atmosphere, they take the time to interact with diners, making them feel welcomed and cared for. The service is quick and efficient, with a constant flow of piping hot dishes being served to tables.

Their deep knowledge about the menu is evident as they patiently answer questions or make recommendations, helping you navigate the delicious offerings.

This unpretentious and friendly service extends to every part of the restaurant’s operation, from the preparation of dishes to the overall dining experience, adding to the charm of this local gem.

The staff’s dedication to creating a pleasant dining environment plays a significant role in why many visitors consider Khao Soi Khun Yai a must-visit when in Chiang Mai. Their attentive service truly encapsulates Thai hospitality, making every meal a memorable one.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

Here are some useful tips for those planning their first visit to Khao Soi Khun Yai in Chiang Mai:

• **Arrive Early:** The restaurant opens at 10:00 AM and often sells out early. Arriving early ensures you get to taste their signature khao soi.
• **Carry Cash:** Khao Soi Khun Yai is a cash-only establishment. Remember to have enough cash on hand to pay for your meal.
• **Dress Appropriately:** While the restaurant is casual, it’s recommended to dress modestly in respect of Thai culture.
• **Share Your Meal:** Thai culture encourages communal dining. Consider sharing your khao soi or other dishes with your dining companions.
• **Ask for Recommendations:** The staff at Khao Soi Khun Yai are very knowledgeable. Don’t hesitate to ask them for menu recommendations or to adjust the spice level to your preference.
• **Explore Nearby Attractions:** After your meal, take advantage of the restaurant’s central location and explore Chiang Mai’s nearby attractions.

Khao Soi Khun Yai Chiang Mai Nearby Attractions

Chiang Mai is a city rich with history, culture, and stunning sights. After you’ve had your fill of delicious khao soi at Khao Soi Khun Yai, why not explore some of the city’s most iconic attractions?

• **Wat Chiang Man**: This is Chiang Mai’s oldest temple and houses two important Buddha images, making it a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.
• **Wat Phra Singh**: Known for its classic Lanna-style architecture, Wat Phra Singh is one of the most revered temples in the city.

Markets and Shopping

• **Warorot Market**: This is one of the city’s largest markets where you can buy everything from clothes, to street food, to local Thai products.
• **Sunday Walking Street Market**: Held every Sunday evening, this market is the perfect place to pick up some souvenirs and sample a wide variety of Thai street food.

Museums and Art Galleries

• **Chiang Mai National Museum**: Discover the rich history of northern Thailand through the fascinating exhibits here.
• **Art in Paradise**: A fun and interactive 3D art gallery, perfect for all ages.

Nature and Adventure

• **Doi Suthep-Pui national park**: A beautiful national park that offers stunning views of Chiang Mai city.
• **Elephant Nature Park**: Here, you can spend a day learning about and interacting with rescued elephants in a responsible and ethical manner.

All these attractions are easily accessible from Khao Soi Khun Yai, making them perfect for a day of exploration after a satisfying meal.

Khao Soi Khun Yai Chiang Mai Nearby Restaurants

Chiang Mai is a paradise for food lovers, with countless restaurants and food stalls serving a variety of Thai and international cuisines. Here are some eateries near Khao Soi Khun Yai that you can explore:

• **Huen Phen**: Renowned for its Northern Thai food, especially the Sai Oua (Northern Thai sausage) and Nam Prik Noom (green chili dip).
• **The House by Ginger**: Offers an upscale dining experience, famous for its traditional Thai dishes with a modern twist.
• **David’s Kitchen**: Highly rated for its exceptional French and European cuisine.
• **Rock Me Burgers & Bar**: Popular for its gourmet burgers and refreshing cocktails.
• **Free Bird Cafe**: A social enterprise offering delicious vegan and vegetarian dishes. Profits support local charities.
• **Bodhi Tree Cafe 2**: Known for its organic, vegetarian-friendly menu and serene ambiance.
• **Fern Forest Cafe**: A delightful cafe, perfect for coffee and cakes in a garden setting.
• **Iberry Garden**: Famed for its creative ice-cream flavors and quirky decor.

These restaurants offer diverse culinary experiences within a short distance of Khao Soi Khun Yai.

Khao Soi Khun Yai Chiang Mai Nearby Hotels

Chiang Mai has a wide range of accommodations that cater to every budget and preference. Here are some hotels that are conveniently located near Khao Soi Khun Yai Thai Restaurant:

* **Rainforest Boutique Hotel**: Offers clean rooms, an outdoor pool, and a complimentary breakfast.

* **Changmoi House Little Village**: A charming boutique hotel with spacious rooms and a beautiful garden setting.

* **De Chai The Colonial Hotel**: Features elegant colonial-style rooms and a refreshing pool.

* **The Peaberry**: A small and cozy hotel that offers an excellent breakfast.

* **Shangri-La Hotel Chiang Mai**: A top-notch luxury hotel with an outdoor pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options.

* **Anantara Chiang Mai Resort**: Offers high-end rooms and suites, a spa, and a world-class restaurant.

Each of these hotels provides easy access to Khao Soi Khun Yai, making them perfect for food lovers seeking to explore the culinary delights of Chiang Mai.

FAQs

**Q: What are the opening hours of Khao Soi Khun Yai?**

A: The restaurant is open from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Monday to Saturday. They are closed on Sundays.

**Q: How do I get to Khao Soi Khun Yai in Chiang Mai?**

A: The restaurant is conveniently located within the Old City. You can reach it on foot if you’re staying nearby, or use local transport such as taxis, Grab, songthaews, or tuk-tuks.

**Q: What is the signature dish at Khao Soi Khun Yai?**

A: The signature dish is khao soi, a rich and flavorful noodle dish made with coconut curry broth, crispy egg noodles, and tender chicken.

**Q: What are the prices like at Khao Soi Khun Yai?**

A: Prices range from 35-50 Thai Baht per dish, making it an affordable dining option. Please note that the restaurant only accepts cash payments.

**Q: Are there vegetarian options on the menu?**

A: While the restaurant is famous for its khao soi, the menu also includes other traditional Thai dishes. However, it’s best to ask the staff about vegetarian options when you visit.

**Q: What other attractions are near Khao Soi Khun Yai?**

A: There are numerous attractions nearby, including Wat Chiang Man, Wat Phra Singh, Warorot Market, Chiang Mai National Museum, and Doi Suthep-Pui National Park.