We’ve always heard rumours that Chiang Mai is the cafe capital of Thailand. On our recent trip, we realised just how true that is. Chiang Mai’s cafe scene is on another level! From jungle hideaways to relaxing riverside spots, the city is packed with unique coffee spaces that are as much about the aesthetic as they are about the brews. Whether you’re searching for the perfect Instagram shot or just want to enjoy a slow coffee in a unique setting, these five cafes were our favourites while in Chiang Mai.
1. Graph in Baankangwat – Where Art Meets Coffee in Chiang Mai
Tucked inside Baankangwat, a creative market village filled with cafes, boutiques, and restaurants, Graph serves up some of the best coffee in town in an intimate, artsy space. Their large experimental coffee menu is a dream for caffeine lovers, think espresso tonics and cold brews with unexpected infusions. The rustic, moody interiors, combined with the surrounding artist studios, give this place a creative, laid back mood. We tried the vanilla charcoal latte and the classic Thai iced coffee, and both were amazing.
2. Chom Cafe – A Jungle Escape
Walking into Chom Cafe feels like stepping into a fairytale. The lush greenery, misty waterfalls, and tropical landscaping make this spot one of the most surreal cafe experiences in Chiang Mai. It’s like a hidden oasis, where you can sip a refreshing iced coffee while looking out to this pristine garden. The Cafe opens late around 11am so its more of a brunch and lunch spot with and extensive menu of Thai dishes. This spot is very popular with tourists & content creators, so plan to get there early before it gets packed for a more relaxing experience.
3. Far Away – A Minimalist Rustic Retreat
Located in the countryside about 45 minutes north of Chiang Mai, Far Away Cafe is surrounded by mango trees with a warm, rustic rural charm. The minimalist wooden design blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings, creating a peaceful retreat for coffee lovers. Whether you’re sipping on a perfectly brewed espresso or enjoying a slow afternoon with an iced tea, this spot is ideal for those looking to escape the city and unwind in nature under the shade of a mango tree.
4. Din Cafe – Earthy & Tranquil
Built from earthy materials and nestled in lush surroundings, Din Cafe blends seamlessly with nature. The curved clay walls, timber details, and open air garden seating make it feel like a country house hidden in Chiang Mai. The coffee here is excellent, and we loved the laid back community garden vibe.
5. The Baristro x Ping River – Relaxing Riverside Cafe
The Baristro has a few cafes around Chiang Mai known for its sleek, modern cafe designs, and this riverside location is no exception. Overlooking the Ping River, this spot has a monochrome aesthetic with a cool wabisabi feel. There’s plenty of seating, from various indoor nooks to an outdoor courtyard and riverside seating. Perfect for a iced latte in the golden afternoon sun. Grab a seat by the water and soak in the tranquil riverside vibes.
Chiang Mai Cafes
Chiang Mai’s cafe culture is a dream for coffee lovers and creatives. Each of these cafes has its own unique vibe, whether you’re after a lush jungle setting, minimalist aesthetics, or a cozy artistic nook. If you’re exploring Chiang Mai, make sure to add these cafes to your list & your camera roll.
Which of these cafes would you visit first? Let us know in the comments!
if you are heading to Thailand check out our stay near Phuket at Six Senses Yao Noi here
