7 Restaurants in Chiang Mai With the Most Unique Views

Both locals and foreigners love Chiang Mai, and it’s not hard to see why. Nestled within the mountains in Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai offers an escape from the city’s hubbub. Surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking scenery, the city is known for its natural beauty. Combine that with cafes and restaurants set in unique locations, just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two, or a chill hangout spot with your friends, here are our favourite restaurants in Chiang Mai with a view to boot!

1. Jungle De Cafe

Check out this jungle cafe that sits over a waterfall! Jungle De Cafe gets its rugged, treehouse vibe from the surrounding Pongyang Jungle Coaster Zipline Camp & Resort. A wooden bridge spans the ravine between the two sides of the cafe, and you can either settle yourself on one of the mesh nests that’s perched above the waterfall, or head over to the air-conditioned section. Complete floor-to-ceiling glass that makes you feel like you’re sitting in the canopy! Craving for some adventure after? Check out the zipline and coaster nearby!

2. Monday Sick Leave

A little out of the main old town area is Monday Sick Leave, an Italian restaurant with chill vibes and a peaceful atmosphere. Check out the picturesque views of the mountains in the background! You’ll really be able to appreciate the cool weather at this rooftop restaurant. Not to mention, they also do great pizzas and pastas. There is also a great selection of boutique beers and wine, making this one of our favourite restaurants in Chiang Mai!

3. Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai

For a truly exclusive experience, head over to the Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai. Here, enjoy a private breakfast or dinner amid emerald green paddies, overlooking the lake in a rustic rice barn setting. In the day, relax in the cool morning breeze and indulge in a delectable menu of international favourites. By nightfall, savour an exquisite five-course meal under the light of the moon and by candlelight at your table, decorated with intricate flower arrangements, with soft background music that enhances the atmosphere.

4. Kafe Bannok Coffee Roasters

Kafe Bannok Coffee Roasters don’t just offer a great cuppa, the cafe also has an actual river and outdoor seating that allows you to dip your toes in the water. The owner, Neng, is well known in Chiang Mai’s coffee roaster scene for his coffee brand, Bannok. The cafe has a back to basics concept so don’t expect full service here, but the unique ambience more than makes up for it. The cafe also serves beer and food, mainly Thai classics like fried rice and yum woon sen (spicy vermicelli salad).

5. The Giant Chiangmai

This makes for one of the most unique restaurants in Chiangmai – it is essentially a giant treehouse! Nestled within a dense jungle, a massive tree is literally the root and support of this cafe tree house. A large, lofted platform is built around the ancient tree and the surrounding rainforest casts a cool shade over the platform. Enjoy a cup of coffee, take in the warm sunshine and the views of the rolling hills, jungle and greenery. Sit on the deck or get comfortable in one of the many “bird’s nest” tables suspended over the jungle.

6. Asama Cafe

A small cafe beside a pond with great views of Doi Suthep Mountain, Asama Cafe is a hidden gem. You can expect to get top quality coffee here, as the establishment is owned by Mook, a judge for Thailand’s national barista championships. This is where she practices her art, creating quality coffee from a curated blend of imported beans. Other than coffee, you’ll also be able to find delightful treats like freshly baked scones and strawberry cakes too.

7. The Roof at Sala Lanna

Perched at the rooftop of the ​​upscale boutique hotel Sala Lanna, this bar has open-air cushioned seatings and a panoramic view of Chiang Mai’s night markets and the Ping River at night. In the daytime, the rooftop and swimming pool area is open to guests of the hotel only, but it opens to all visitors after 6pm. Did we also mention that this is a great spot to catch the sunset with a cocktail in hand? Apart from the cushioned seats, The Roof bar also has a variety of different seating for a different mood. From long benches with low tables, to stools at the bar counter.