Chiang Mai, known for its rich cultural heritage and delicious Thai cuisine, also boasts an impressive selection of pizzerias that cater to both locals and the city's thriving expat community. Whether you're craving an authentic Italian experience or a unique Thai-fusion creation, Chiang Mai's pizza scene has something for everyone. After extensive research and countless taste tests, we've compiled this definitive ranking of the top 10 pizza establishments in the Rose of the North.
1. By Hand Pizza Café
Location: 25 Moon Muang Rd Lane 7, Chiang Mai Contact: +66 63 882 8195 Price Range: ฿200–500 Opening Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
By Hand Pizza Café has established itself as the premier destination for pizza lovers in Chiang Mai. This small but mighty establishment offers a genuine wood-fired pizza experience that rivals many Italian pizzerias.
What Makes It Special
The centerpiece of By Hand is their authentic brick oven, visible from the dining area, where skilled pizzaiolos craft each pizza by hand (as the name suggests). The thin, crispy crust develops a perfect char from the wood fire, creating a smoky flavor profile that perfectly complements their high-quality toppings.
Must-Try Items
- Chorizo Pizza: Featuring a nicely baked, slightly chewy base with a pillowy, crunchy crust
- Margherita: A simple yet sublime combination of fresh mozzarella and flavorful tomato sauce
- Hawaiian Pizza: Their unique take on this classic, prepared with a special technique that even pineapple skeptics appreciate
- Beverages: Don't miss their homemade kombucha, especially the purple passion fruit variety and the ginger honey lime
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Authentic wood-fired cooking method
- Open kitchen where you can watch your pizza being made
- Exceptional crust texture and flavor
- Friendly, welcoming atmosphere
Cons:
- Small seating area that fills up quickly
- No air conditioning (can get warm)
- Limited parking options
- Potential for long wait times during peak hours
- Menu focuses exclusively on pizza with few alternative options
Customer Reviews
“Easily the best pizza I've had in Thailand. The chorizo pizza ordered crispy had nicely baked and slightly chewy undercarriage with a pillowy, crunchy crust. The sauce was flavorful and this was exactly what I was looking for.” – Seamus C.
“The margarita pizza was fantastic, and the homemade ginger ale kombucha was a standout – I absolutely loved it! The atmosphere was good, although it could be improved with some background music, and the staff was friendly and welcoming.” – Technology T.
2. Pizza My Heart @ Nimman
Location: 34 Soi 7, Nimman, Chiang Mai Price Range: ฿200–400 Best For: Authentic Italian-style pizzas
Pizza My Heart has earned its stellar reputation through dedication to traditional Italian methods. The owners' commitment to authenticity is evidenced by their training in Italy, where they mastered the craft before bringing their expertise to Chiang Mai.
What Makes It Special
Every pizza at Pizza My Heart reflects their commitment to quality ingredients and traditional techniques. The restaurant offers a more expansive dining area compared to By Hand, making it ideal for larger groups. Their dough fermentation process creates a distinctive flavor profile that has earned them a loyal following among pizza purists.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Authentic Italian techniques and recipes
- Excellent variety of traditional and creative options
- Comfortable dining environment
- Knowledgeable staff passionate about pizza
Cons:
- Slightly higher price point than some competitors
- Can be busy during peak hours, requiring reservations
3. Street Pizza & The Wine House
Location: 7, 15 Tha Phae Road, 2nd Floor, Chiang Mai Price Range: ฿฿ Best For: Thin-crust pizza in a charming historical setting
Street Pizza & The Wine House offers a unique dining experience located in a beautifully preserved old Chinese trading building. The historical architecture provides an atmospheric backdrop for enjoying their consistently excellent thin-crust pizzas.
What Makes It Special
The combination of character-filled surroundings and quality cuisine makes Street Pizza a memorable experience. Their wine selection perfectly complements the food menu, making this an excellent choice for a more sophisticated dining experience.
4. Adirak Pizza
Location: 11/15 Moo 5, Su Thep, Chiang Mai Price Range: ฿฿ Best For: Authentic European-style pizzas with creative toppings
Adirak Pizza has developed a devoted following, particularly among expats and locals who appreciate their consistently excellent execution. Many local residents consider it the best pizza in Chiang Mai, which speaks volumes in a city with such competitive options.
What Makes It Special
Their Guanciale pizza and Pesto Ricotta pizza are frequently cited as “out of this world” by patrons. The dough has a distinctive quality that sets it apart from other establishments, and their ingredient combinations show creativity while respecting traditional foundations.
5. Why Not? Italian Restaurant
Location: 14 Nimmana Haeminda Rd Lane 11, Chiang Mai Price Range: ฿฿ Best For: Authentic Italian cuisine vouched for by Italian expatriates
When Italian residents in Chiang Mai recommend a pizza place, it's worth taking notice. Why Not? has earned the seal of approval from those who know Italian cuisine best, making it a must-visit for pizza purists.
What Makes It Special
Their willingness to customize pizzas to customer preferences, combined with their commitment to authentic techniques, creates a winning combination. The restaurant offers a genuine Italian dining experience beyond just pizza.
6. Amataros Sourdough Pizza
Location: 219 Mu 5, Chiang Mai (West of the airport, near Wat Umong) Price Range: ฿200–400 Best For: Distinctive sourdough-based pizzas
Amataros has carved out a niche with their focus on sourdough pizza bases. The tangy complexity of the sourdough creates a distinctive foundation that pairs beautifully with their thoughtfully selected toppings.
What Makes It Special
Their sourdough base provides a delightful textural experience – perfectly crispy with a satisfying chew. The slightly more secluded location makes this something of a hidden gem worth seeking out.
7. Cafe de Oasis & Toby's Pizza
Location: 131/25 Moo 1, Chiang Mai Price Range: ฿200–300 Best For: Wood-fired authentic Italian-style pizzas
Boasting a genuine wood-fired oven, Cafe de Oasis & Toby's Pizza specializes in traditional techniques that yield exceptional results. Their Parma ham pizza is particularly renowned for its authentic Italian flavor profile.
What Makes It Special
The wood-fired cooking method imparts a distinctive smokiness to their thin, crispy crusts. The restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere that encourages lingering over your meal.
8. Anne's Pizza
Location: Malee Hotel, 167/1 Ratchapahkinai Rd, Chiang Mai Price Range: ฿100–200 Best For: Chicago Deep Dish and NY-style slices
For those craving American-style pizza, Anne's offers the best of both worlds: authentic Chicago deep dish and classic New York slices. This relatively new establishment has quickly developed a reputation for quality.
What Makes It Special
The diversity of styles sets Anne's apart – where else in Chiang Mai can you find genuine Chicago deep dish pizza? Their ability to execute different regional American styles demonstrates impressive versatility.
9. The Duke's
Location: Multiple locations including Ping River (49/4-5 Chiang Mai-Lam Phun Rd) Price Range: ฿฿ Best For: American-style pizzas and frequent promotions
The Duke's has established itself as a reliable choice for American-style pizza across multiple locations in Chiang Mai. Their popular Buy One Get One Free promotion makes this an economical choice for pizza lovers.
What Makes It Special
Consistency across locations and value-oriented pricing have made The Duke's a staple in Chiang Mai's pizza landscape. Their American-style approach satisfies cravings for a familiar comfort food experience.
10. Rad Rabbit Vegan Pizzeria
Location: 27/2 Moon Muang Rd Soi 9, Chiang Mai Price Range: ฿100–300 Best For: Plant-based pizza innovations
Completing our top 10 is Rad Rabbit, Chiang Mai's premier destination for vegan pizza. Their creative approach to plant-based toppings has earned them a dedicated following beyond just the vegan community.
What Makes It Special
Rad Rabbit proves that vegan pizza can be just as satisfying and flavorful as traditional options. Their gluten-free crusts also make this an excellent choice for diners with dietary restrictions.
Conclusion
Chiang Mai's pizza scene showcases impressive diversity, from traditional Italian approaches to American styles and innovative plant-based creations. Whether you're a pizza purist or an adventurous foodie, these top 10 establishments offer something to satisfy every craving. While By Hand Pizza Café takes our top spot for its perfect combination of authentic technique, quality ingredients, and memorable experience, each restaurant on our list brings something special to Chiang Mai's culinary landscape.
Pizza lovers visiting the Rose of the North need not worry about missing out on quality pies – with options ranging from wood-fired traditional to creative fusion, Chiang Mai proves that excellent pizza knows no geographical boundaries.
This guide is based on reviews, local recommendations, and personal experiences as of March 2025. Restaurant details including hours, prices, and menu offerings may change over time.
