Food – Shopping for food

A quick general comment – Many of us are accustomed to living in areas where it is less expensive to prepare our own food than it is to eat out at a restaurant. Surprisingly to many of us, this is not the case in Chiang Mai! It is generally quite a bit more expensive to buy food ingredients and cook them yourself than to eat in a restaurant. This remains a mystery to many of us! Of course, this does not deter those of us who love to cook. You can find modern grocery stores with a look and feel familiar to those from the west – or you can explore the many local “fresh markets” that offer fresh produce as well as meat and seafood.

Shopping for food in Chiang Mai is a delightful experience, with a wide range of options to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are some of the most popular places to shop for food in Chiang Mai:

• Local Markets: Chiang Mai has several local markets that offer fresh produce, seafood, meat, and other ingredients. Some popular markets include Warorot Market, Ton Payom Market, and the Sunday Night Market.
• Supermarkets: There are several supermarkets in Chiang Mai that offer a wide range of groceries, including imported products. Some popular supermarkets include Big C, Tesco Lotus, Rimping, and Tops Market.
• Specialty Shops: Chiang Mai has several specialty shops that offer high-quality local products, such as organic fruits and vegetables, artisanal cheeses, and handmade baked goods.
• Food Courts: Chiang Mai has several food courts that offer a variety of local and international cuisine, including the famous Chiang Mai Gate Food Court.
• Street Food Vendors: As mentioned earlier, street food vendors are a popular option for quick and affordable meals in Chiang Mai.

Overall, shopping for food in Chiang Mai is a fun and tasty experience, with a wide range of options to explore.