1. What are the must-try local dishes around Wat Chedi Luang?
Some must-try local dishes around Wat Chedi Luang include:1. Khao Soi – a popular Northern Thai dish made with egg noodles, curry broth, and choice of meat (usually chicken or beef) topped with crispy noodles.
2. Sai Oua – a spicy pork sausage that is often grilled and served with sticky rice.
3. Gaeng Hang Lay – a rich and flavorful Northern Thai curry typically made with pork belly and tamarind paste.
4. Khanom Krok – a sweet coconut pudding snack made from rice flour, coconut milk, and palm sugar.
5. Khao Kan Jin – steamed rice mixed with herbs, spices, and minced pork or chicken, wrapped in banana leaves and served with various condiments.
6. Som Tam – a spicy green papaya salad usually served with grilled meat or sticky rice.
7. Sai Ua Khua – dried Northern Thai sausage made from ground pork and fragrant spices like lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves.
8. Kuay Tiew Khaek- a Muslim-style noodle soup commonly found in Chiang Mai’s night markets, filled with meatballs, fried wontons, bean sprouts, onions, cilantro and your choice of noodles.
9. Larb Muang – a refreshing herb-infused mix of minced meat (usually chicken or pork), mint leaves, shallots, lime juice and fish sauce eaten alongside cabbage or lettuce leaves.
10. Pad Thai – no list of Thai food would be complete without this popular stir-fried noodle dish made with tamarind paste for tanginess and topped with peanuts and your choice of protein (chicken or shrimp are common options).
2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available at the local restaurants near Wat Chedi Luang?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan options available at the local restaurants near Wat Chedi Luang. Some popular choices include:
– Eats Amore: This vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurant offers a variety of dishes including pad thai, curries, and stir-fried vegetables.
– Aum Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurant: This restaurant specializes in vegetarian and vegan Thai dishes such as green curry, tofu dishes, and vegetable stir-fries.
– Free Bird Cafe: Located inside the adjacent Wat Sri Suphan temple, this café offers vegetarian and vegan options such as salads, sandwiches, and smoothie bowls.
– Khun Churn: This restaurant offers a buffet-style selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes made with fresh organic ingredients.
– Blue Diamond Breakfast Club: This breakfast spot serves up delicious vegetarian and vegan breakfast options like smoothie bowls, avocado toast, and pancakes.
3. How is the street food scene around Wat Chedi Luang?
The street food scene around Wat Chedi Luang is bustling and diverse. Visitors can find a wide variety of local dishes and snacks sold by street vendors in the area, such as grilled meats on sticks, noodle dishes, fresh fruit smoothies, and traditional Thai desserts. The prices are also very affordable, making it a popular dining option for both locals and tourists. Some vendors even set up tables and chairs for customers to enjoy their food right there on the street. Overall, the street food scene around Wat Chedi Luang offers a delicious taste of local culture and is definitely worth checking out for anyone visiting the area.
4. What is the best place to get a traditional Khao Soi (curried noodle soup) near Wat Chedi Luang?
One highly recommended spot for traditional Khao Soi near Wat Chedi Luang is Khao Soi Samer Jai. It’s a local, no-frills restaurant that serves up delicious and authentic Khao Soi along with other northern Thai dishes at affordable prices. It’s located on Prapokklao Road, just a short walk from the temple.
5. Are there any restaurants with a view of the temple and its surroundings?
There are several restaurants in or near the temple complex that have views of the temple and its surroundings, including:– Ojaswi Himalayan View Restaurant: located within the temple complex, this restaurant offers stunning views of the Pashupatinath Temple from its outdoor seating area.
– Waterfront Restaurant: also within the temple complex, this restaurant has a rooftop terrace with views of the temple and the Bagmati River.
– Radha Krishna Brasserie & Bar: located just outside the temple complex, this restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating areas with views of the Pashupatinath Temple.
– Garden of Dreams: while not directly overlooking the temple, this beautiful garden offers a peaceful oasis with a view of part of the temple complex from a distance. It also has a cafe where you can enjoy a meal or snack.
6. Which restaurant serves the most authentic Lanna (northern Thai) cuisine near Wat Chedi Luang?
A: The most authentic Lanna cuisine near Wat Chedi Luang can be found at Huen Phen restaurant.
7. Is there any particular dish or cuisine that Wat Chedi Luang is known for globally?
No, Wat Chedi Luang does not have a specific dish or cuisine that it is known for globally. The temple is known for its historical and architectural significance, rather than food.
8. Are there any all-day breakfast spots or cafes near Wat Chedi Luang?
Yes, there are several all-day breakfast spots and cafes near Wat Chedi Luang, including:1. Khao Soi Mae Sai – This cafe is located right next to the temple and offers delicious traditional Thai breakfast dishes such as khao soi (curry noodle soup) and roti (flatbread with sweet or savory fillings).
2. The Lost Bookshop Cafe – Just a short walk from the temple, this cozy cafe offers a selection of Western-style breakfast items like pancakes, omelettes, and croissants.
3. Ohkajhu Organic Kitchen – This popular restaurant serves up healthy breakfast options such as smoothie bowls, avocado toast, and granola bowls, as well as traditional Thai dishes.
4. Akha Ama Coffee – This charming coffee shop serves organic coffee grown by hill tribe farmers in Northern Thailand, along with breakfast options like toasted sandwiches and pastries.
5. Jok Sompet – Located in the nearby Warorot Market, this street food stall is famous for its jok (rice porridge) served with a variety of toppings such as pork balls and century eggs.
9. What are some popular dessert options in the area around Wat Chedi Luang?
Some popular dessert options in the area around Wat Chedi Luang include:
1. Mango sticky rice – a classic Thai dessert made with ripe mango, glutinous rice and coconut milk.
2. Banana roti – a crispy pancake filled with sliced bananas, topped with condensed milk and sugar.
3. Coconut ice cream – a refreshing treat made with creamy coconut milk and served with various toppings such as peanuts, corn, or jelly.
4. Kanom Krok – traditional Thai coconut cakes made in small cast iron pans with a crispy outer layer and soft center.
5. Khanom Buang – crispy bite-sized pancakes filled with sweet or savory toppings such as shredded coconut, egg yolk, or minced pork.
6. Bua Loi – small chewy balls of rice flour floating in warm pandan-infused coconut milk.
7. Thong Yip – golden egg yolk sweets wrapped in intricately folded banana leaves.
8. Fried bananas – ripe bananas coated in batter and deep-fried to golden perfection.
9. Tub Tim Krob – red ruby dessert made from water chestnuts in syrup served with shaved ice and coconut milk.
10. How expensive are the dining options in this area? Any budget-friendly recommendations?
The dining options in this area can range from moderate to expensive. There are some budget-friendly options such as fast food chains, local delis or small cafes that offer affordable meals. Some recommendations for budget-friendly dining include:
1. The Halal Guys – famous for their chicken and gyro platters at an affordable price
2. Sweetgreen – known for their salads and bowls made with fresh and healthy ingredients
3. Xi’an Famous Foods – a popular spot for authentic Chinese street food at reasonable prices
4. Saigon Shack – offers delicious Vietnamese dishes at affordable prices
5. Shake Shack – a favorite for burgers, hot dogs, and shakes at a reasonable cost
6. Zai Lai – known for its Taiwanese-style breakfast items that are both tasty and inexpensive.
7. Joe’s Pizza – a go-to spot for New York-style pizza slices at an affordable price.
11. Are there any cooking classes offered nearby to learn how to make traditional Thai dishes?
Yes, there are several cooking classes offered in the area where you can learn how to make traditional Thai dishes. Some popular options include Baipai Cooking School, Silom Thai Cooking School, and Thai Orchid Cooking School. These classes usually include a market visit, hands-on cooking lessons, and a sit-down meal to enjoy the dishes you have prepared. It is recommended to research and book a class in advance as they can fill up quickly.
12. Is it recommended to try street food around Wat Chedi Luang, or should visitors stick to traditional restaurants?
It is recommended to try street food around Wat Chedi Luang, as it offers a unique and flavorful experience. However, visitors should exercise caution and make sure the food is hygienically prepared before consuming. Traditional restaurants around the area are also a good option for those who prefer a more controlled and comfortable dining experience.
13. Is it possible to find international cuisines and fast food chains around Wat Chedi Luang?
Yes, there are a variety of international cuisines and fast food chains located near Wat Chedi Luang. Some popular options include Pizza Hut, KFC, Subway, McDonald’s, and Burger King. There are also many local restaurants that serve a variety of Thai and international dishes.
14. Do any of the nearby restaurants offer outdoor seating or rooftop dining options?
Yes, some of the nearby restaurants such as Terrapin Tap House and Juniper offer outdoor seating or rooftop dining options. Other restaurants with outdoor seating include Skyhouse Raleigh and The Dillon Rooftop.
15. Can visitors find unique and exotic ingredients used in local dishes at markets near Wat Chedi Luang?
Yes, visitors can find unique and exotic ingredients used in local dishes at markets near Wat Chedi Luang such as the Sunday Walking Street Market or the Warorot Market. These markets offer a wide variety of local herbs, spices, fruits, and vegetables that are used in traditional Thai cuisine.
16. What are some popular spots for grabbing a quick snack while exploring the area near Wat Chedi Luang?
Some popular spots for grabbing a quick snack while exploring the area near Wat Chedi Luang include:
1. The Small House Cafe – serving sandwiches, Thai snacks, and coffee.
2. Chiang Mai Gate Market – a local street food market with a variety of dishes to try.
3. Seven Fountains Cafe – offering homemade cakes, pastries, and coffee.
4. Aroon Rai Vegetarian Restaurant – a popular vegetarian spot serving Thai snacks and dishes.
5. Coffee Queen Art Cafe – serving coffee, smoothies, and snacks in an artistic setting.
6. Funky Monkey Smoothie Bar – providing freshly-made smoothies and juices.
7. May Kaidee Vegetarian Restaurant – another popular vegetarian option with a range of Thai snacks on the menu.
8. Pad Thai Street Stall – located just outside the temple, this small stall specializes in Pad Thai noodles.
9. Salad Concept – offering a variety of healthy salad options with customizable toppings.
10. Elephant Walk Bookstore Cafe – combining coffee and books with sandwiches and snacks.
17.And, aside from food, what other cultural experiences should visitors try when in this area?
1. Visit local art galleries and museums to learn about the history and culture of the region.
2. Attend a traditional music or dance performance, such as a flamenco show or a folk music festival.
3. Explore the scenic countryside on bike or by foot, through hiking trails or organized tours.
4. Visit a winery and try locally produced wines, such as Rioja or Ribera del Duero.
5. Attend a cultural festival, such as the running of the bulls in Pamplona or Fiestas de San Fermin in Guadalajara.
6. Attend a bullfight at one of the many bullrings in the region.
7. Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional dishes from the area.
8. Visit historic monuments and landmarks, such as castles, churches, and cathedrals.
9. Participate in outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding, or paragliding in the Pyrenees mountains.
10. Take a day trip to nearby towns and villages to experience different local cultures and traditions.
11. Relax in thermal baths and spas that are found throughout the region.
12. Learn about traditional crafts such as pottery making or weaving in artisan workshops.
13. Attend a soccer game and immerse yourself in the passionate sports culture of Spain.
14. Explore local markets and try unique products like cured meats, cheeses, and olives from different regions within Northern Spain.
15. Attend a religious procession during Semana Santa (Easter Holy Week) for an insight into Spanish Catholic traditions.
16. Try your luck at a casino or enjoy a night out at one of the many bars and clubs in major cities like Bilbao, Santander, or Pamplona.
17.Take part in outdoor activities like kayaking on rivers or surfing on beaches along the rugged coastline.
18.Is it safe to drink tap water at restaurants and street food stalls in this area?
It depends on the specific location and circumstances. Generally speaking, tap water in developed countries is safe to drink, but it’s always a good idea to ask if the water has been purified or filtered before consuming it. In some developing countries or areas with poor sanitation, it may be safer to stick to bottled water at restaurants and street food stalls. It’s important to use your own discretion and be mindful of any potential risks.
19.Is tipping customary at restaurants near Wat Chedi Luang, and if so, what is the expected amount?
Tipping is not customary in Thailand, including at restaurants near Wat Chedi Luang. However, if a restaurant was to provide exceptional service, leaving a small tip of 5-10% would be appreciated by the staff.
20. Are there any waterfront or riverside dining options near Wat Chedi Luang?
Yes, there are several waterfront or riverside dining options near Wat Chedi Luang, including:
1. Deck 1 Riverside Bar & Restaurant: This restaurant offers a cozy outdoor seating area overlooking the Ping River and serves delicious Thai dishes.
2. The Riverside: Located on the banks of the Ping River, this restaurant offers panoramic views and specializes in Northern Thai cuisine.
3. Good View Restaurant & Bar: This popular spot has a large outdoor terrace with views of the Ping River and serves both Thai and Western dishes.
4. Baaan Klang Wiang Cafe’: This quaint cafe is situated next to Wat Chedi Luang and offers views of the temple while serving traditional Thai dishes.
5. The River Market: A charming restaurant located along the river that serves up fresh seafood and a variety of other dishes.
6. The Gallery Restaurant at Chiang Mai Buri Gallery House: Set in a riverside garden, this restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating with views of the Ping River as well as live music in the evenings.