A charming town in northern Thailand, surrounded by mountains and crossed by the river of the same name, the town of Pai captivates travelers with its remarkable natural setting. Famous for its laid-back, hippie atmosphere, the town is full of small cafés and restaurants, each more unique and distinctive than the last. Proof of this with these 10 cafés you absolutely must discover during a stay in Pai.

1. Carrot on the Moon

Located in the heart of Pai, Carrot on the Moon is a hotel/café renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and utterly charming setting. You can enjoy a coffee, tea or smoothie at any time of day, but the place is especially known for its delicious and sublime pastries, including the famous cheesecakes and carrot cakes. There are also options for lunch and dinner with Western dishes including fresh pasta.

Of course, prices are higher than in purely Thai cafés and restaurants, but the pastries alone are worth the visit...

2. Espresso Bar by Prathom 1

Located on the pedestrian street in downtown Pai (Pai Walking Street), Espresso Bar by Prathom 1 is a quirky little bar where you can enjoy excellent coffee, tea, smoothies and fresh fruit juices. There are also a few cakes and sweet treats.

What we love about it? Its vintage-decorated interior filled with bric-and-brac, including a collection of children's figurines and dolls of all kinds. You can choose between sitting at tables overlooking the street or heading upstairs where you'll find more tables with cushions for sitting or relaxing peacefully.

3. Art in Chai café

Looking for a café with an unusual and quirky concept during your stay in Pai? Then Art in Chai café is for you! Decorated in an Indian style with numerous handmade and upcycled works of art, this café/restaurant is worth the detour for its laid-back atmosphere that makes you feel at home. Every Thursday (and sometimes several evenings a week depending on the season), the bar hosts a live music evening.

On the drinks side, the bar is mainly known for its variety of teas, the most popular being Indian chai tea. As for the dishes, they are all vegetarian and vegan.

4. THAM MA DA Café'

THAM MA DA Café' is a café/restaurant located near Wat Phra That Mae Yen temple (white Buddha statue). It features a lovely wooden terrace overlooking a lotus pond filled with koi fish. Offering a peaceful and meditative setting, you can settle into Thai triangular cushions or take a nap in one of the hammocks.

While the place is perfect for a coffee break, you can also enjoy meals here (breakfast, typical northern Thai cuisine dishes and some Western options like burgers).

5. Fat cat

Also located near Wat Phra That Mae Yen temple, Fat Cat is a charming elevated café that, being built at height, gives the impression of being in a treehouse. The place is ideal for a break, to enjoy a comforting drink: a good coffee, tea or herbal infusion, fresh juice or kombucha.

The café also offers dishes made from fresh, local products. You'll find many vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. You can even enjoy breakfast made with homemade sourdough bread and homemade jam.

6. House Cafe' Homestay & Restaurant

House Cafe' Homestay & Restaurant is a charming establishment nestled in a lush setting. The guesthouse features a lovely terrace welcoming all visitors to enjoy a drink or Western dish with views over the rice paddies and surrounding nature. Large tortoises, serving as mascots, roam the gardens.

Whether you're passing through for coffee, breakfast or lunch, you'll love the peaceful atmosphere that permeates the place. One thing's for sure: it's the ideal spot to get off the beaten path and escape the hustle and bustle of downtown.

7. The Pedlar

The Pedlar is a modern café located right in downtown Pai. Specializing in coffee and brunch, you'll find a wide variety of coffees, teas, savory dishes and a selection of cakes prepared fresh daily. The café emphasizes local products (including coffee from coffee farms in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Lampang).

Offering an air-conditioned seating area, numerous seats with access to outlets and free WiFi, this is an excellent choice for digital nomads.

8. Chang Puak Handcrafted Coffee House

Want to enjoy an elevated experience while sipping a coffee? Head to Chang Puak Handcrafted Coffee House, a café that has remained something of a secret, nestled near the Great Buddha temple. Equally beloved by locals and travelers, this charming little café is perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle. Its stunning panoramic view of Pai's mountains will leave no one indifferent.

Here, you won't find food, but a wide selection of hot and cold drinks prepared with care by the owner. You can also discover a shop featuring artisanal products and travel souvenirs.

9. Cafecito

Located in a popular neighborhood in downtown Pai, Cafecito is a Mexican café/restaurant. Renowned for its authentic Mexican dishes, you can also simply drop by for a drink. The bar serves excellent espressos and caffeinated beverages made from in-house roasted beans. There's also a wide selection of tea (hot or cold) and a few sweet treats.

Whether you pop in for breakfast, lunch or afternoon snacks, you'll love the convivial atmosphere of the place.

10. The Container (I Love U Pai Cafe)

Also known as "I Love U Pai Cafe," The Container is a café/restaurant slightly removed from downtown. It's a two-story establishment with highly Instagram-worthy décor. The terrace is set up with suspended seating and swings overlooking Pai's mountains. This is THE spot to enjoy a coffee while snapping beautiful photos.

For coffee enthusiasts, products are sourced from local farms. You can also enjoy some Thai dishes, snacks and desserts.

Are you passing through Pai during your trip to Thailand? Here are things to do and see in Pai as well as the best hikes to discover in the Pai region.

To learn more, also discover our "Mae Hong Son Loop" circuit which invites you to explore the region's most beautiful natural treasures and meet its inhabitants.