Chiang Mai’s Coffee Craze: 1,700 New Shops and Counting

Coffee shops are popping up everywhere in Chiang Mai this year. According to LINE MAN Wongnai, 1,700 new coffee shops have opened in 2024, making up 5% of all new coffee shops in Thailand. On top of that, 10,000 new restaurants have launched, showcasing the city's booming food scene, despite 2,000 closures.

Chiang Mai: A Coffee Lover’s Paradise

Chiang Mai has become a must-visit destination for coffee enthusiasts. The city’s passion for coffee remains strong, even with 400 shop closures, as new spots continue to emerge. Yod Chinsupakul, CEO of LINE MAN Wongnai, highlights the impact of the city’s university culture. Students keep coffee and food delivery orders flowing, even if their average ticket size is smaller than in office-driven Bangkok.

Growth hubs include Mueang District, San Sai District, and San Kamphaeng District. Entrepreneurs are finding success by offering high-quality products and unique concepts in this vibrant market.

The Restaurant Scene: High Stakes, High Rewards

Chiang Mai’s restaurant industry reflects the nationwide trend of high competition. Most restaurants last 3-4 years, with closure rates around 20-25%. The city’s love for food remains evident as trending dishes like Thai tea, shredded chicken noodles, braised pork leg rice, mala, and Hainanese chicken rice take center stage. Locals also embrace fermented rice noodles and sukiyaki, adding a distinct flavor to the city’s culinary identity.

Food Delivery on the Rise

Food delivery in Chiang Mai is growing rapidly, driven by its status as a university hub. Students place smaller but frequent orders, creating a unique challenge for businesses to maintain repeat customers. Seasonal shifts during school breaks mirror trends in other university cities like Khon Kaen and Maha Sarakham. Tailored marketing strategies help businesses navigate these fluctuations.

Standout Eateries Making Waves

Chiang Mai’s food scene is buzzing with standout eateries that have made a splash this year:

• Baan Piamsuk: Famous for its young coconut pie, a favorite among locals and tourists.

• Adirak Pizza: Known for its homemade pizzas, baked to perfection in a charcoal oven.

• Mama Fathanis: A beloved noodle shop serving locals for over 30 years, renowned for its signature chili recipe.

Chiang Mai’s Culinary Future Shines Bright

Chiang Mai is emerging as a culinary hotspot, fueled by a thriving coffee culture, dynamic restaurant market, and the powerful influence of social media. Entrepreneurs have countless opportunities to tap into the city’s growing appetite for unique and quality experiences.

Dive into Chiang Mai’s vibrant food and coffee scene and discover the innovation and passion driving this city’s culinary success. From bustling coffee shops to trending local dishes, the future of Chiang Mai’s food culture is brimming with potential.

For more stories about Chiang Mai’s food culture, visit CNXMAG.com.