10 Best Coffee Shops in Chiang Mai

My cafe recommendations for Thailand

I am a coffee lover. When someone asks what my hobbies are, the first thing I say is going to a new cafe. I am happy to spend the day cafe hopping, filling my body with more caffeine than the CDC recommends. And when I travel, it is no different; I am always looking for the best cafes, whether it’s for coffee, brunch, or a sweet treat. Chiang Mai, Thailand, blew me away with its coffee shops - for the unique experiences, cozy aesthetics, and phenomenal tastes. So this, friends, is my Thailand coffee diary.

Carp Cafe

We are starting out strong with this one. Located by the airport, calling this stop a cafe is a gross understatement – it’s a one-of-a-kind experience in a gorgeous oasis.

There is no way inside other than over a bridge and a series of walkways with koi fish swimming on both sides. And where do you sit? Right in the middle of it. The “tables” are submersed so you sit level with the fish. The abundant greenery, the water splashing, the koi popping their heads above water - it’s perfect.

In addition to coffee, Carp Cafe has a wealth of food options for a full dining experience. You can also bottle feed the fish for 40 THB!

Bloomin’ Moon

Old Town is dotted with cute cafes on every street. I stumbled upon this one because it was just a block down from my hotel. The outdoor seating was quiet and peaceful before the morning heat hit. I ordered the avocado & egg toast and an iced Nutella latte. Neither was something I’d jump through hoops to get again, but were still tasty and filling!

Also, you automatically get an extra star from me if you have a cafe cat.

MARS

If you have done any research about coffee recommendations in Chiang Mai, this one is on all the lists – for the vibes alone. It’s space themed and the interior is quite impressive with its Mars-inspired cave-esque corner.

A popular coffee drink in Southeast Asia is orange juice with a shot of espresso. I decided to give it a try, and it tastes just about how you would expect lol. Not something I’ll be ordering again, but an iconic Thailand drink I’m glad I tried once!

Roast8ry Lab

Located in Nimman, this cafe is a hot spot for the digital nomads. Their award-winning latte art is something you’ve got to see for yourself.

Pastell

Again, I stopped here before getting on a truck for a group tour because it was just down the street from my hotel, and I’m so glad I did! Had one of the best coffees - a basic iced Thai-style coffee, and the vibes here are super cute too.

Pastell is also where I had the best breakfast sandwich of my life. They have several options, but I went for egg, avocado, and cheese with their special sauce (not too spicy). Please go to Thailand to eat this sandwich.

Chai Lai Orchid Cafe

Although this isn’t the most accessible cafe as it’s about an hour and a half outside of Chiang Mai, if you happen to be doing an elephant excursion at Chai Lai Orchid Sanctuary, you can’t leave without picking up a drink at the cafe. The coffee was pretty standard, but the experience? 10/10.

Sunday Baker

Sunday Baker, at the edge of Old Town, is a great brunch spot for, you guessed it, Sunday mornings. However, prices are steep by Chiang Mai’s standards. That being said, there are a wealth of European-style options and the iced salted caramel latte here was definitely worth the extra buck. Also, the cornflake-crusted French toast deserves a moment in the spotlight.

Fohhide

Okay, not coffee, I know, but this cafe still deserves a shout out. Located in Nimman, hike up to the fifth floor of the Manifreshto building. It’s a small room with stools lining the all-glass walls. It’s really the perfect mid-afternoon pick-me-up with AC and great views of the city.

Fern Forest Cafe

I think I have a preference for aesthetic cafes with oasis vibes. Surround me with plants and I’m content. Fern Forest Cafe in Old Town delivered that experience and more with a tropical smoothie bowl and salted caramel latte.

Not in Chiang Mai, but another favorite in Ao Nang: TAN Hostel & Cafe

I had a few different coffees in Ao Nang, but this is the only one I need to mention. It is all you need. I had the iced cream cheese latte three times, and I’m still dreaming about it. The food and vibes are also spectacular.

There is no doubt about it – Thailand had the best cafes out of any place I’ve traveled to. The vibes, decor, food, coffee, and price cannot be beat. And as someone who values [multiple] daily drinks, a quality coffee shop makes all the difference. Happy travels!