Aroon (Rai) — Restaurant in Chiang Mai Province

Review for Aroon (Rai) Restaurant - A Hidden Gem in Chiang Mai

If you're in Chiang Mai and looking for authentic Northern Thai cuisine, Aroon (Rai) Restaurant is a must-visit destination. This charming eatery, proudly proclaiming "ONLY ONE HERE IN THE WORLD," lives up to its unique reputation with traditional flavors and a no-frills atmosphere that focuses entirely on its food.

I ordered the classic Khao Soi, a beloved Northern Thai dish, and it was hands down one of the best I’ve had. The rich and creamy coconut curry broth was perfectly spiced—warming but not overpowering—with tender pieces of chicken that fell apart effortlessly. The highlight was the crispy noodles piled on top, adding a delightful crunch to every bite. The accompanying garnishes—pickled mustard greens, shallots, lime, and chili paste—brought a fresh, tangy, and spicy balance that elevated the dish even further.

Alongside the Khao Soi, I couldn’t resist a few sides: the spring rolls, served hot and crispy, paired beautifully with a sweet chili dipping sauce. The portion size was generous without feeling overwhelming, making it an ideal choice for anyone who wants a taste of Northern Thai comfort food.

While I didn’t order the fried chicken, its golden, crispy appearance showcased the variety this restaurant has to offer for anyone craving more classic Thai street food.

The setting at Aroon (Rai) is unpretentious and welcoming, giving you the feeling of stepping into a piece of Chiang Mai’s culinary history. Since 1957, they’ve been perfecting their craft, and you can taste their dedication in every bite.

Verdict: Aroon (Rai) is an authentic gem for anyone seeking Northern Thai cuisine. Come for the Khao Soi, stay for the atmosphere, and leave with a full stomach and a new favorite spot...

I walked place this place a couple times before decided to take a chance, because It looks like type of a restaurant for Thai local people. Looks very basic, simple old style.

I ordered some from the menu and a curry from the precooked with a dish of jasmine rice.

They put Jasmine rice to a blue plastic plate and had it heat up at the microwave. And that was 50 baht!!! the curry I ordered had a bit of smell from the fat-pork like the food has been recycled for days. Such a small bowl and precooked food cost me 95 baht!!! my partner had crispy pork belly stir fried with snow peas. And that was 120 baht for thin slices of pork!!

Plus with only one option of beer(Chang) in can.

That was very not good experience. The restaurant looks like it's been there over generations. I would expect them to have quality food and fair price.

The only good thing that I could think of is The people there were sweet, nice and polite. Just really need to improve the quality of...

Third review of this great restaurant. As the sign outside says "best curry in town" well the gauntlet had been thrown down, I had to try one ! So I went for the pork & ginger curry. I wasn't disappointed. Great flavor and to tasty. I also had a som tam to go with it,also good. As ever good service and very good prices.

I have eaten here in 2015 so when back in town December 2016 I went back for more. This is a no frills straight up good honest food kind of restaurant. Every dish I have had here has been great. This visit I went for crispy frog with garlic and pepper, rice,chicken and mushroon and chaing mai sausage. All great tasting...