One of the most popular and beloved dishes in Thai cuisine is Pad Thai. Made from rice noodles, stir-fried with eggs, tofu, shrimps, tamarind paste, fish sauce, palm sugar and red chilli pepper, it is frequently served with lime wedges, spring onions, raw banana flowers and topped with a sprinkling of peanuts. This delicious dish is a must-try for any food lover visiting Thailand; its unique combination of flavors and textures has made it a favorite among locals and foreigners alike.
Pad Thai has a rich history that dates back to the 1940s, during World War II. As Thailand was suffering a shortage of rice due to less production in the rice fields, which coincided with bad flooding. In order to preserve the stocks of this precious grain, the Thai government, (under Prime Minister Plaek Phibunsongkhram) started to promote noodles instead amongst Thai people. Noodles used only 50% of the grain, so were more economical and cheaper to produce. Pad Thai quickly gained popularity and is now considered one of the national dishes of Thailand.
In addition to being delicious, Pad Thai is also a relatively healthy dish. A typical serving of Pad Thai contains around 400-500 calories, making it a great option for those looking to enjoy a flavorful meal without overindulging. The dish is also rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a well-rounded and nutritious choice.
When visiting Thailand, you will find that Pad Thai is a staple on the menus of restaurants and street food stalls throughout the country. Whether you are dining in a high-end restaurant or grabbing a quick bite from a street vendor, you are sure to find delicious and authentic Pad Thai.
For those looking to try their hand at cooking Pad Thai at home, the ingredients are relatively easy to find in most grocery stores or Asian markets. With a few simple steps and some practice, you can recreate the authentic flavors of this beloved Thai dish in your own kitchen.
Overall, Pad Thai is a dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of people all around the world. Its rich history, delicious flavors, and health benefits make it a must-try for anyone visiting Thailand. So next time you find yourself in the Land of Smiles, be sure to indulge in a plate of mouth-watering Pad Thai - you won’t be disappointed.
Chang Puak Magazine would like to introduce you in this article our top picks for the most delectable Pad Thai spots in Chiang Mai. Please be aware that each recommendation offers equally mouthwatering dishes, making it challenging to choose a favorite.
LAN PAD THAI (Thapae)
Step back in time at a legendary Chiang Mai Pad Thai stall that has been feeding the city for over 90 years! Imagine that when this place started cooking their starting price was 50-satang. Now it is still very cheap, at around 30 Baht per plate.
This family recipe, passed down through three generations, is a testament to tradition. Auntie Tim and Auntie Ting, the current caretakers of the legacy, remain true to the original formula. Their secret? Simple, yet deeply flavorful – just salt water, Phra Brand fish sauce, sugar, perfectly fried pork noodles, and fluffy eggs, all brought together with the magic of freshly rendered lard. A taste of Chiang Mai’s history awaits!
Ton Soi Sitthiwong (opp. Maeka Panit Shop).
Open Daily: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
CHARCOA GRILL PAD THAI (Charoen Muang Rd)
Travel back in time at this place famous for ther charcoal-grilled Pad Thai.
Cooked by two sisters for over 30 years, it’s a flavor passed down through generations. Expect a simple setting with smoky Pad Thai wrapped in banana leaves – a culinary experience not to be missed.
Charoen Muang Rd. At the foot of Nawarat Bridge.
Open Daily: 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
FAH TARA CAFE (Old Town).
Nestled in the heart of Chiang Mai’s old city, Fah Tara Cafe offers a welcome respite from your explorations. This tranquil haven boasts both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing you to choose between plush leather sofas or a charming garden setting complete with a cascading waterfall.
But the true gem of Fah Tara Cafe lies in its delectable offerings. Their signature Pad Thai is a must-try, featuring a delightful combination of chicken, shrimp, or a vegetarian option, all presented with a flourish.
So, after a day of temple hopping and soaking in Chiang Mai’s rich history, unwind at Fah Tara Cafe and indulge in a delicious Pad Thai amidst a truly serene atmosphere.
57 Wiang Kaew Road. Next to Fah Lanna Spa.
Open Daily: 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Facebook: Fahtara Coffee & Restaurant
PAD THAI RANGGRITT (Chiang Mai Gate)
This charming restaurant offers a heartwarming glimpse into the past. The owner’s beloved Grandma Sompon, a true culinary nomad, delighted villagers across Sukhothai and Chiang Mai with her signature Pad Thai. Carrying her wok from “soi” (lane) to “soi,” she built a reputation for delicious, comforting fare.
Today, the restaurant’s menu features her signature three dishes: Pad Thai, a comforting plate of rice topped with savory fried pork and garlic, and a refreshing Orian coffee drink. Each bite is a delicious reminder of home cooking, a taste the owner fondly remembers from his childhood.
Continuing Grandma Sompon’s legacy, theRanggritt Restaurant offers these heartwarming dishes daily from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Located conveniently outside the moat at Chiang Mai Gate, it’s the perfect stop for a casual dinner any day of the week. And if you’re exploring the bustling Saturday Walking Street nearby, this hidden gem is a must-visit for an authentic taste of Chiang Mai.
90/3 RatchiangSaen Road. Hai Ya. Chiang Mai.
Hours: 10.00 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 6.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m.
Facebook: Ranggritt Pad Thai
PAD THAI JAE MUAY (Nong Hoi Market)
Nong Hoi Market is a haven for those seeking a delicious Pad Thai dish. With three vendors vying for your attention within a mere 500 meters, the choices are tempting. We opted for Jae Muay’s stall, a vibrant street food haven easily identified by its proximity to the police box.
Jae Muay’s Pad Thai is a revelation. Each bite explodes with flavor, and a delightful touch of heat comes courtesy of her secret – a hint of chili infused into the frying oil. With a dedication to freshness, Jae Muay only opens from 4:30 PM, closing once her daily batch is depleted. So, for a taste of this fiery Pad Thai perfection, be sure to arrive early!
Nong Hoy Market. Chiang Mai.
Open Daily: 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
October 2024.