Start your day with a delightful pick-up from your hotel in a fully electric tuk-tuk. Your first stop is the historic Wat Ket area, a vibrant hub that once served as a crucial river port. This area is a veritable melting pot of cultures, having attracted Chinese traders, Western missionaries, and various ethnic communities over the years.
Your culinary adventure begins with a taste of Khao Griep Pak Mor Thai steamed pork dumplings that have earned both local and international renown. (Please note: closed on Sundays). These delectable dumplings, made from rice flour and filled with pork, peanuts, and radish, are a burst of flavour. They’re best enjoyed with fresh vegetables, garlic, and chili. This family-run business has been delighting locals for over 60 years, now managed by the second and third generations. Many locals grab a takeaway to savour these dumplings in their cars or at home.
Next, savour the famous Stewed Duck and Chicken Noodles, a beloved local dish with a 30 year legacy. This family-run restaurant beautifully blends Lanna culture and Chinese heritage. The mother, of Lanna descent, and the father, Chinese, have created a unique dining experience. You’ll notice a shrine in the restaurant reflecting Lanna traditions. The family carefully selects special ducks to roast, ensuring they’re not too oily. Their signature bowl, featuring egg noodles and roasted duck, is a must-try! If duck isn’t your preference, you can opt for chicken instead. The son now manages the restaurant, while the mother still seasons the broth herself, passing down the recipe to the next generation.
Continue your journey across the bridge and take a leisurely stroll through the fruit market. Here, you can sample a variety of delicious, seasonal Thai fruits like rose apple, mangosteen, and many more. Then, walk through Chiang Mai’s largest fresh market, a bustling hub of local life where vendors sell everything from vegetables to meats, supplying both homes and restaurants. This market is the main source of ingredients for many of the city’s eateries.
Ride into Chiang Mai’s old town and stop near the 3 Kings Monument to try Khao Niew Ping a delicious grilled sticky rice filled with banana, taro, or sweet potato, or enjoy a grilled banana coated with sweet coconut milk.
Continue your ride to try Sai Krok E San, the Northeastern Thai sausage. This shop has been serving its unique recipe for over 17 years and sells an impressive 60kg of sausages a day! It’s definitely worth a taste, especially when enjoyed with fresh vegetables.
Finish off your excursion with a visit to a hidden homemade ice cream shop, offering unique flavours crafted from seasonal local ingredients—flavours you can only find here! It’s the perfect way to cool down (or even heat up if you’re brave enough to try the Spicy Chilli Mango flavour!), before heading back to your hotel.
