Chiang Mai has long been known for its misty mountains, ancient temples, and vibrant night bazaars. But for the discerning traveler and epicurean, the city’s true magic lies in its dynamic and evolving food scene. Beyond the famous street food stalls and traditional northern Thai fare, a trio of restaurants is redefining what it means to dine in this northern capital. Together, they form a compelling culinary trinity: Redbox, Blackitch, and Cuisine de Garden.
When in Chiang Mai, you might find yourself navigating the winding sois of the old city or the more modern Nimman district. It’s here that you’ll encounter a new wave of chefs who are both honoring tradition and boldly breaking from it. This is not fusion for fusion’s sake, but a thoughtful conversation between local ingredients, global techniques, and a profound sense of place.
First, there is the quiet confidence of Redbox. Tucked away in a tranquil corner, this establishment offers a masterclass in modern Thai and Asian cuisine with a contemporary touch. The experience here is one of subtle refinement, steered by the husband-and-wife team, Chef Chindarnai ‘Dan’ Boonchaliew and food artist Pimmada ‘Pam’ Kankulsuntorn. They draw on their experiences from living and working across Southeast Asia, infusing classic dishes with a sophisticated elegance. The menu thoughtfully sources over 80% of its ingredients from local artisan suppliers, ensuring each dish sings with freshness and authenticity. Redbox is the culinary equivalent of a well-tailored suit: classic, timeless, and effortlessly sophisticated, offering a dining experience that feels both familiar and deeply considered.
Next, we encounter the rebellious spirit of Blackitch. Here, Chef Phanuphol “Black” Bulsuwan is the culinary alchemist, transforming the raw materials of northern Thailand into edible works of art. His small, intimate space, tucked away on a second floor in Nimman, feels more like a kitchen laboratory than a traditional restaurant. The menu is a reflection of his daily market finds and his boundless creativity, with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients. Blackitch operates on the principle of “omakase,” or “I’ll leave it up to you,” where the diner surrenders to Chef Black’s vision. A single meal might include fermented fruits, sustainably sourced river fish, and ancient grains, all presented with a punk rock sensibility. Dining at Blackitch is an adventure—a wild, unpredictable, and deeply personal journey that challenges your preconceived notions of what Thai food can be.
Finally, we arrive at the enchanting world of Cuisine de Garden. This restaurant is a sensory experience from the moment you step through its doors. The space itself, located a short drive from the city center, is an extension of the food, designed to evoke a fantastical garden. Chef Leelawat “Nan” Mankongtiphan, a former furniture designer, uses nature as his muse. His dishes are playful and poetic, each plate a miniature landscape or a whimsical scene from a fairytale. The flavors are clean and precise, but the presentation is pure theater. You might find a dish that mimics a bird’s nest or a dessert that looks like moss on a forest floor. Cuisine de Garden is not just a meal; it is an immersive, multi-sensory spectacle that blurs the line between food and art.
While each of these restaurants stands on its own as a destination, together they tell a larger story about Chiang Mai’s gastronomic evolution. Redbox represents the mastery of tradition, refined and perfected. Blackitch embodies the spirit of innovation and daring experimentation. And Cuisine de Garden showcases the power of imagination and the art of storytelling through food.
For the modern traveler, seeking not just a place to stay but a story to experience, this trio offers a compelling reason to linger in Chiang Mai. They are more than just restaurants; they are cultural institutions that reflect the city’s creative heart and its profound connection to its land and history. So, when in Chiang Mai, go beyond the known. Seek out this culinary trinity and discover a side of the city that is as rich, complex, and beautiful as its ancient Lanna heritage.
