From Michelin-recommended fine dining to hidden sourdough pizza spots, discover the top 5 places for authentic Italian food in Chiang Mai.
by Thairanked Guide
December 07, 2025 02:18 AM
Chiang Mai might be famous for Khao Soi, but its Italian food scene is quietly one of the best in Southeast Asia. The city has attracted Italian chefs for decades, resulting in a landscape filled with authentic trattorias, wood-fired pizzerias, and high-end dining spots that import their cheese and wine directly from Italy.
Whether you are looking for a romantic date night with a bottle of Chianti or just craving a perfect Neapolitan pizza after a week of spicy Thai curries, we’ve ranked the Top 5 Italian Restaurants in Chiang Mai that are open, thriving, and delicious.
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The Michelin-Recommended Fine Dining
If you want the absolute best Italian dining experience in the North, Favola is the crown jewel. Recognized by the Michelin Guide 2025, this restaurant offers sophisticated, authentic cuisine in a stunning setting. Chef Luca creates magic with imported ingredients, think Truffle Risotto, Wagyu Beef Tagliata, and handmade ravioli. The extensive walk-in wine cellar is a dream for wine lovers. It is pricey, but perfect for a special celebration.
Opening Time: Daily, 17:00 – 23:00.
Location: Inside Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel, Chang Khlan Road.
How to get there:
Taxi/Grab: Set destination to "Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel" (formerly Le Meridien) near the Night Bazaar. It is a well-known landmark.
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The Artisanal Sourdough Hidden Gem
Adirak Pizza started as a secret spot for locals and has exploded into a "must-visit" cult favorite. Located in a quiet garden in the Suthep area, they specialize in wood-fired sourdough pizza. The crust is chewy, tangy, and perfectly charred. Their toppings are creative and high-quality. Try the Pesto Ricotta or the Spicy Nduja. It’s casual, outdoor, and arguably serves the best pizza crust in the entire city.
Opening Time: Daily, 11:00 – 22:00.
Location: 11/15 Moo 5, Tambon Suthep (Near Wat Ram Poeng).
How to get there:
Taxi/Grab: This is a bit hidden. Search for "Adirak Pizza" or "Wat Ram Poeng". It is south of Chiang Mai University, near the famous Baan Kang Wat artisan village.
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The Authentic Nimman Favorite
Located in the heart of the trendy Nimman area, Why Not? is the go-to spot for expats who miss real Italian flavors. The owner is passionate about his food, and it shows. They are famous for their Mediterranean seafood dishes, massive cold cut platters, and homemade gnocchi. The atmosphere is warm and bustling, with both indoor AC seating and a lovely outdoor patio. It’s widely considered the most "authentic" Italian vibe in town.
Opening Time: Daily, 11:00 – 23:00, but only on Monday open 16:00 - 23:00
Location: Nimmanhaemin Soi 11.
How to get there:
Red Truck/Taxi: Tell the driver "Nimman Soi 11". The restaurant is about halfway down the soi on the left.
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The Home-Style Comfort Classic
For over 20 years, Pulcinella has been serving honest, unpretentious Italian comfort food. Tucked away near Tha Pae Gate, it feels like stepping into a grandmother's kitchen in Italy. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. Their Lasagna and Osso Buco are legendary among long-term residents. It’s quiet, cozy, and consistently delicious without the need for fancy dress.
Opening Time: Daily, 12:00 – 22:00.
Location: Chang Moi Kao Road (Near Tha Pae Gate).
How to get there:
Walk/Taxi: From Tha Pae Gate, walk towards Chang Moi Road. It is located in a small lane near the Boots Pharmacy at the gate entrance.
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The Old School Institution
Piccola Roma is an institution in Chiang Mai, run by the charismatic Master Chef Angelo. This is old-school Italian hospitality at its finest; expect the chef to come to your table to recommend dishes. The menu is vast, covering everything from classic pizza to sophisticated seafood platters. It has a loyal following because the quality has remained high for decades. It’s elegant but welcoming to families.
Opening Time: Daily, Lunch 11:00 – 14:00 & Dinner 17:00 – 23:00.
Location: 144 Charoen Prathet Road (Opposite Anantara Resort).
How to get there:
Taxi: Tell the driver "Piccola Roma" or "Opposite Anantara Hotel" on Charoen Prathet Road. It is near the Ping River.
by Thairanked Guide
December 07, 2025 02:18 AM
"Top 5 Italian Restaurants in Chiang Mai"
Here you will find answer to the most popular questions.