After my first Northern Thai feast in Chiang Mai, I traveled farther north to Chiang Rai with my friends Omer and Yonatan. Together, we explored the soulful world of Lanna food. From temples to markets, every stop deepened our taste for the earthy and vibrant spirit of Northern Thai cuisine.

The White Temple and Beyond

Our first stop was the White Temple, a dazzling blend of modern art and Buddhist devotion. Its white façade shimmered under the sun, symbolizing purity, while small mirrors embedded in the plaster reflected the world around us. For me, it was a reminder that enlightenment comes through reflection and awareness.

Afterward, we wandered through Chiang Rai’s peaceful streets. The countryside unfolded before us, lush and green. Soon, our curiosity — and appetite — guided us from one meal to the next. Each turn revealed a new corner of Northern Thailand worth exploring.

A Northern Thai Feast to Remember

That evening, we finally sat down to a true Northern Thai feast. The table quickly filled with small plates and steaming bowls. First came nam prik ong — a tomato and minced pork chili dip, rich and balanced. Then, we tried nem nuong, grilled pork sausages full of herbs and garlic.

The Star Of This Northern Thai Feast

However, the star of the meal was the Northern Thai laab.

Unlike the version found in Isaan (Northeastern Thailand), this laab was cooked, fragrant with toasted spices and topped with crispy fried garlic. Altogether, the mix of heat, herbs, and texture reflected the essence of Lanna food — rustic, bold, and full of heart.

For those who want to try making it at home, check out this Small House Cooking Class — it’s a great guide for the classic Northern Thai laab with its 10-spice stir-fry.

Street Food and Sunday Vibes

Later that night, we joined the crowd at Chiang Rai’s Sunday Walking Street Market, where hilltribe vendors lined the road with color and aroma. Handmade crafts, woven textiles, and sizzling pans filled the air with life. As we strolled, we sampled Shan-style noodles and grilled sticky rice cakes. Each bite offered a glimpse into the region’s layered history.

Meanwhile, local musicians played mor lam under strings of lights. Families laughed, and children chased each other through the crowd. The scent of charcoal and lemongrass drifted between the stalls. Altogether, it created a scene that blended sound, taste, and warmth — everything that defines Northern Thai food culture.

Street Food and Sunday Vibes

Later that night, we joined the crowd at Chiang Rai’s Sunday Walking Street Market, where hilltribe vendors lined the road with color and aroma. Handmade crafts, woven textiles, and sizzling pans filled the air with life. As we strolled, we sampled Shan-style noodles and grilled sticky rice cakes. Each bite offered a glimpse into the region’s layered history.

Meanwhile, local musicians played Northern Thai Music under strings of lights. Families laughed, and children chased each other through the crowd. The scent of charcoal and lemongrass drifted between the stalls. Altogether, it created a scene that blended sound, taste, and warmth — everything that defines Northern Thai food culture.

From Chiang Rai to the Golden Triangle

Before leaving, we decided to take a short trip toward The Golden Triangle, where Thailand meets Laos and Myanmar. Mist rolled over the hills as the river curved below, wrapping the landscape in quiet beauty. Standing there, I felt as if the borders faded, revealing how food and culture move freely across this region.

Our journey through Chiang Rai province was only beginning.
From hidden markets to hilltribe kitchens, countless flavors and stories awaited us — don’t worry, I’ll be sharing every unforgettable bite soon!

If you enjoyed this journey through Chiang Rai, don’t miss Part I: Welcome to My First Northern Thai Feast.