Khao Bird's Luke Larsson Shares His Favourite Food Spots in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Faye Bradley

1 day ago

CHIANG MAI

Inspired by the vibrant blend of Chiang Mai’s northern Thai open-air food markets, Khao Bird in Borough Market unites oriental flavours with thoughtfully sourced British ingredients. Offering local-concept BBQ dishes, Luke Larsson brings a flavour of Asia to the quintessential British food hall. Focusing on regional specialties, Head Chef Luke Larsson playfully conceptualises Northern Thai street-snacks, brought to fruition from a wealth of experiences in and around Thai kitchens and markets.

Luke Larsson sat down with CSP Times to discuss his favourite food spots in Chiang Mai, revealing the inspirations behind his Khao Bird kitchen.

"From my experience in Bangkok and Northern Thailand, I’ve learned the importance of respecting the authentic history of the food while also recognising that it’s about fun and bringing people together. At Khao Bird, our dishes honour the people who taught me, those who frankly know better than I do, while offering a glimpse into the guilty pleasure of blending the different cuisines and influences that shaped me."—Head Chef of Khao Bird, Luke Larsson

Image courtesy of Austin Bush

Khao Soi Prince

Khao Soi Prince is a must visit! It is outside of the old town of central Chiang Mai, but it's where I had my first bowl of khao soi. The balance of creamy coconut curry, tender chicken, and crunchy fried noodles is pure magic... Simple, honest, and packed with flavour.

Address: QXWM+47J, Sri Poom 8 Alley, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

Image courtesy of The Good Stuff Chiang Mai

Chang Phueak Stalls

Just by the north gate in Chang Phueak Area, you’ll find a collection of food stalls, known as the Chang Phueak stalls... It is a sensory overload in the best possible way. You must try the much-famed khao kha moo, of braised pork hocks with egg and mustard greens, cooked and served by a delightful lady donning a cowboy hat.

Address: Chiang Mai, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Image courtesy of tasteatlas.com

Kai Yang Choeng Doi

A tiny restaurant off Suk Kasem Rd, we found Kai Yang Choeng Doi after SP Chicken was closed for the season, but it was by far the best grilled chicken I'd had in Thailand; flavourful, cooked to perfection and with shatteringly crispy skin. Speedy and great value.

Address: Su Thep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand | Phone: +66 81 881 1407

Image courtesy of Austin Bush

Pa Daeng Jin Tup

My favourite place to visit in Chiang Mai is Pa Daeng Jin Tup. Although it is quite a challenge to get to, the food is definitely worth the journey. The menu is mostly grilled meats smacked with a hammer, and paired with dips and relishes. They also have some punchy and bitter northern soups, and I recommend the pork brain and egg cooked in banana leaf. The people who run it are also really charming.

Address: 11 San Sai Luang, San Sai District, Chiang Mai 50210, Thailand

Woo Art Gallery & Cafe

Woo Art Gallery & Cafe is artsy and cool with great coffee, a really nice place to unwind and brunch with lots of interesting things to look at.