By the time you reach Chiang Mai in Thailand’s north you are usually sick of Pad Thai. This is extra true for those who have just come up from Bangkok where a diet of street food generally leads to a daily dish of delightful Pad Thai. Entering Chiang Mai, the last thing you will want to order is this same meal. However Tong Tong is the home to the best Pad Thai ever!
Run by a sweet Thai lady, all on her own in Chiang Mai’s historic centre, Tong Tong is popular with all those who discover this restaurant tucked away on Moonmuang soi 7. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner, the meals are made to perfection. If you’re not hungry, drop by for a fresh fruit shake.
Her talents don’t end with Pad Thai and fruit shakes though. Between my dad, travel friends and myself, we sampled almost the entire menu and never once were we disappointed and we always looked forward to heading back the following day (or next meal time…). From curries, to stir fries to full English breakfasts, meals at Tong Tong will be some of the most mouth-watering, enjoyable dishes you will ever encounter anywhere in the world. Definitely the best in Thailand.
To make the deal sweeter, her prices are highly affordable. Pad Thai with Chicken is 50 Thai Baht, which is similar to the price you would pay on the street in Bangkok.
There are few tables and the owner is always working and cooking alone, which can result in a small wait for your meal. Don’t let this deter you though as it is more than worth it. Whilst you relax, she will be flying around, taking on all the roles of a restaurant – waitress, hostess and head chef – with a large smile on her face no matter how busy she is.
Such a sweet woman and amazing cook. I wish I could take her with me everywhere.
All opinions are subjective to the writers personal travel experience. The writer travelled at her own expense.
Reblogged this on LIFE in SE ASIA a daily magazine.