Anchan Vegetarian Restaurant — Restaurant in Chiang Mai Province

Some restaurants in Chiang Mai don’t just show up—you have to look for them. And Anchan Vegetarian Restaurant is one of those secret spots tucked away in a quiet alley, up on the second floor. I almost thought I was lost, but then I spotted the blue flower sign (FYI, "Anchan" means butterfly pea flower)—mystery solved!

Upstairs, it’s a cozy open space with wooden tables, gentle fans, and the kind of chill vibe that makes you want to stay for hours. The staff welcomed me with warm smiles and casual English chit-chat. Most of the diners were Westerners, all looking like they just came out of a meditation retreat—very zen.

I ordered their green curry with wild mushrooms and brown rice, and wow—the flavor was rich but clean. No MSG, no overpowering sauces, just natural goodness and a lot of fresh veggies. It felt like something your yoga instructor would approve of.

For drinks, I had their butterfly pea herbal tea, a gorgeous indigo-lavender shade that basically begged for a photo. It had a light citrus twist and was surprisingly refreshing even without any sweetener.

One thing I loved is how they keep it real: no artificial colorings, no heavy seasonings, just good food that feels kind to your body. It’s the kind of place you go to when your stomach needs a break from all the spicy street food but you still want something delicious.

So if you’re into quiet spots, clean eats, and hidden gems, Anchan Vegetarian is 100% worth the walk. Just follow the blue flower and trust...

Had a lovely meal here. The restaurant is down a quiet alley and had a few seats available when we arrived, around 715 pm.

After being seated we were given the menu and a pen. It's a paper menu where those seated at the table select their dish and number of dishes.

Menu selection is huge with curries, soups, stir fry, fried rices, fried treats, and drinks. All sounded so good, all are vegetarian with some dishes being vegan. Almost all the dishes are vegetarian versions of popular Thai dishes.

After ordering we got our drinks and food came out after about 20 or so minutes. The kitchen is open to the restaurant with 3-4 people cooking. As it's not a huge kitchen be prepared to wait a bit for your food if it's busy.

The dishes themselves we're excellent. Tons of super fresh veggies and seasoned well. If you're a meat eater, you really won't miss it. Portions are also large, we could have easily split a curry. They also serve local brown and mixed rice, not the usual white rice found throughout Asia.

Prices were fair for the area with mains being around 120 to 180 baht. For the quality of food and portion size the prices are fantastic.

Staff were friendly and prompt, and the general atmosphere of the place can be described as welcoming and healthy!

All in all,...

The one and only Anchan Vegetarian Restaurant is dazzling tastebuds and leaving customers with positive food memories.

The food here is absolutely amazing 😍!!! Everything is made fresh to order. So expect the highest quality and freshest preparations.

I consider Anchan to be the leader of plant-based community here in Chiang Mai. No matter how time passes by the food and flavor profiles don't change.

The Chef, Aye, is a master of flavors and presentation of culinary delights. If you have allergens or particular dietary restriction, Aye is able to accommodate you without sacrificing the authentic flavors. I appreciate that very much!

Truly his preparations are made with love and passion.

What you won't find here is fast food or prepared meals that have been sitting for hours and reheated. Always always fresh.

Love and appreciation to the Anchan family.

I am a traveling plant-based chef specializing in food science and flavorology. Check out my other reviews on...