Norn Lamphun Boutique Hotel

Take a break and make tracks to this wallet-friendly shop that’s mastered braised duck. The duck noodles use the family’s secret blend of spices, while the roasted duck has succulent meat and crispy skin, moistened by the duck's own jus. Northern-Thai and other dishes are available.

Eung Kham Sai has been run by the same family for over a century and is still serving up classic Northern Thai recipes handed down the generations. The modest space has traditional decor; large windows frame the view outside. Try the freshly made khao bai, rice wrapped around a pork, fish or beef filling, or the spicy Northern-style curry, made from scratch with local beef brisket and exuding fruity acidity. Some ingredients come from local farms.

Chum serves Northern Thai cuisine cooked from the recipes of the family's grandmother. The colourful restaurant is simply decorated with red and yellow walls and brightly coloured parasols of Northern Thai design hanging from the ceilings. The stir-fried pork and liver is well cooked, and packed with Thai herbs, wild pepper and coriander. The mixed Northern Thai starter uses a tasty young chili relish with the scent of green chili that isn’t too spicy.

Friend's Table follows a chef's table concept in the glass-enclosed dining wing of the owner's home. Diners can chat with the chefs at work in this stylish interior, dimly lit with a red hue. Collaborating on each dish, the duo of chefs strive for perfection: the food is refined, creatively presented, and packed with flavour, possessing an intensity that is true to the Asian palate. Be sure to be punctual; dinner will start at 7 pm.

A cosy spot in a charming old wooden house with a warm, down-to-earth feel; clay pots, textured walls and rustic furnishings lend regional charm. The unfussy vibe suits the menu of Thai dishes with a few Northern touches. The stir-fried and deep-fried dishes stand out, especially the addictive fried tiny shrimp with chilli and salt – light, crisp and well-seasoned. With quality ingredients and shareable portions, it is ideal for a laid-back meal.

This charming restaurant by the Ping River blends traditional and modern design, with warm wooden decor, brick walls and high ceilings. Woven crafts add a Northern Thai touch. Passionate about Western cuisine, the owner-chef fuses Thai ingredients with European techniques. Standouts include penne with Thai sour pork sausage in pesto and red curry with crispy duck confit and lychee. For an optimum experience, sit out on the riverside terrace and take in the view.

This popular open-air eatery serves well-sized northern Thai favourites at fair prices. Kang Liang, the peppery curry paste in spicy mixed vegetables goes well with the prawns’ natural sweetness; while the local fish marinated in herbs and spices is grilled in a bamboo tube until soft, with a smoky aroma. Do check the blackboard for specials of the day, which often focus on seasonal dishes.