Chiang Mai’s vibrant food scene offers more than just a meal — it’s a way to connect with local culture, traditions, and community. Whether you’re a foodie eager to learn how to cook Thai dishes or a culture seeker interested in performances and rituals, Chiang Mai has plenty to offer after sunset. We particularly love the Private Dinner Cooking Class with Benny for its intimate setting and hands-on experience, where you pick ingredients straight from a garden and walk away with recipes you can recreate at home. For those who want entertainment along with their meal, a Khantoke dinner provides a taste of northern Thai tradition with music, dance, and regional dishes. No matter your taste or budget, Chiang Mai’s diverse dinner experiences promise memorable nights.
Quick Overview
This list includes a variety of cooking classes, traditional dinners with cultural shows, cabaret performances, and river cruises, each offering a unique perspective on Chiang Mai’s culinary and cultural scene. Highlights include intimate experiences like Benny’s private cooking tour, lively cultural shows like the Khantoke dinners, and entertaining performances such as the Ladyboy Cabaret. Dive into our detailed reviews below to find the perfect fit for your interests and schedule.
1. Private Dinner Cooking Class with Benny in Chiang Mai
At number 1 on our list, the Private Dinner Cooking Class with Benny combines homey comfort with authentic Thai cuisine. Benny’s class is about enjoying local ingredients and the art of Thai cooking in a real resident’s home, surrounded by an organic garden. From shopping at a Thai market to picking herbs from the garden, you’ll learn to prepare five dishes, including satay, curry, and noodles, which you get to enjoy and then replicate at home. The tour includes round-trip transportation, making it stress-free. Reviewers especially praise Benny’s warmth and the market tour, calling it “a most memorable experience.” This class is perfect for foodies wanting a personalized, hands-on approach and a true taste of Thailand.
Bottom Line: If you want an authentic, intimate cooking experience that leaves you with recipes and memories, Benny’s class offers excellent value at $81.12 per person, with high ratings and detailed attention to local flavors.
2. Chiang Mai: Khantoke Dinner with Traditional Performance
For around $25, the Khantoke Dinner with Traditional Performance offers a lively introduction to northern Thailand’s cultural heritage. Set in an open-air tropical garden or traditional Lanna-style venue, you’ll sit on wooden benches and enjoy regional dishes served family-style. The highlight is the vibrant dance and music performances that showcase stories from the region’s history and folklore. It’s a festive atmosphere, perfect if you want to experience local customs in a relaxed setting. Reviewers note it’s good for families and that the show and food are well-organized, making it a fun, affordable evening.
Bottom Line: If you’re after an accessible, lively cultural night with good food and dance, this tour provides solid value and a peek into Chiang Mai’s Lanna traditions.
3. Chiang Mai: Ladyboy Cabaret Show with Dinner and Drinks
At number 3, this Ladyboy Cabaret Show with Dinner and Drinks is one of the most colorful experiences in Chiang Mai. It combines a visit to a local night market with a cabaret performance featuring talented ladyboy performers known for their flashy costumes and dance routines. Priced at $57, it offers a lively atmosphere and insight into Thailand’s LGBTQ+ culture, often overlooked in tourist activities. Audience reviews appreciate the fun, flamboyant performances and the opportunity to interact with performers. It’s best suited for those looking for entertainment and an unconventional night out.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you’re seeking lively entertainment and want to learn about Thailand’s queer community in an upbeat setting at a reasonable price.
4. Khantoke Dinner and Cultural Show At Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center
At number 4, the Khantoke Dinner and Cultural Show at the Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center is a traditional experience with informal dining on bamboo mats, while watching dances like sword routines and drum performances. It lasts about two hours and offers enough food to satisfy, along with soft drinks or beer available for purchase. Reviewers praise the performers’ professionalism and the well-organized setup, making it a fun night for families and culture lovers alike. The outdoor setting adds to the charm, providing a classic northern Thai evening.
Bottom Line: If you want an authentic cultural show with a family-friendly vibe, this tour offers good entertainment value for $34.50 per person.
5. Chiang Mai Ladyboy Cabaret Show with Dinner and Drinks (another option)
Slightly more upscale, the Ladyboy Cabaret Show with Dinner and Drinks at $39 offers a similar experience with perhaps a more intimate atmosphere. After visiting a night market, you’ll settle in at Ram Bar for an entertaining stage show, with opportunities to photo performers and learn about their journeys. The four-hour experience is perfect for those wanting a fun, flamboyant night with insightful stories from the performers themselves.
Bottom Line: For a blend of entertainment and cultural insight in a more relaxed setting, this option is both fun and informative.
$39.00 per person
6. Small Group: Traditional Dinner with Performance and Local Fresh Market Tour
Number 6 highlights a small-group experience that combines a local market tour with a regional dinner and cultural performances. For $43.93, you’ll explore Muang Mai Market, then enjoy a Khan Koke-style dinner while watching dances from the Akha, Yao, Lahu, Hmong, and Karen tribes. The small group size enhances the personal touch, and the performances are authentic and lively. Guests appreciate the intimate atmosphere and the chance to learn about ethnic minority traditions.
Bottom Line: If you want a personalized, culture with food and dance, this small-group tour offers great value at just under $44.
$43.93 per person
7. Traditional Khantoke Dinner and Show from Chiang Mai
The Traditional Khantoke Dinner and Show at $23.50 is on the more budget-friendly end. It offers a traditional northern Thai dinner on low tables, coupled with cultural performances including hilltribe dances. Reviewers find it a good value, though some note the portions are modest. It’s a straightforward way to enjoy authentic regional dishes and lively performances without breaking the bank.
Bottom Line: Best suited for budget-conscious travelers seeking an authentic cultural night with minimal fuss.
$23.50 per person
8. Khantoke Dinner Experience & Cultural Dance Show with Transfers
For convenience, the Khantoke Dinner with Transfers offers an easy setup for $44.03. You’re transported to a traditional venue where you’ll enjoy Northern Thai dishes and watch local dances performed by Chiang Mai’s ethnic minorities. The included transfers make it a stress-free choice for those staying in central Chiang Mai, and reviews mention the friendly staff and authentic performances.
Bottom Line: For hassle-free cultural dining with excellent logistics, this tour balances tradition and convenience.
9. Chiang Mai: Khantoke Dinner & Show with Transfers
Another convenient option, this Khantoke Dinner & Show at $37 offers a traditional Northern Thai meal plus live performances including hilltribe dances. The included hotel transfers make it suitable for travelers who prefer a no-hassle experience and want to enjoy local culture in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: If comfort and cultural authenticity matter, this tour provides a straightforward way to enjoy an evening in Chiang Mai.
$37 per person
10. Magical Evening Dinner Cruise on the Ping River
Number 10 is the Dinner River Cruise, which offers a romantic way to enjoy a Thai dinner while floating past illuminated temples and houses. For $75.91, this two-hour cruise combines scenic views with delicious Thai dishes served onboard. It’s suitable for those wanting a relaxed, scenic experience with a touch of elegance, especially at sunset.
Bottom Line: Ideal for couples or anyone looking for a romantic, scenic dinner that’s different from the usual night out.
$75.91 per person
11. Traditional Khum Khantoke Dinner & Dance Show at Chiang Mai
This Khum Khantoke Dinner & Dance Show at $61.35 offers a full culture with traditional dishes served on low tables, accompanied by dances from hill tribes. The included return transfer makes it well-suited for travelers who want an easy, guided evening. Guests enjoy the authenticity of the performances and the chance to try regional dishes they might not find elsewhere.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive cultural experience with the convenience of transportation.
$61.35 per person
12. Traditional Khantoke Dinner & Cultural Show in Chiang Mai
The Khantoke Dinner & Show at $30.99 provides a classic dinner on a low table with dance and music from hill tribes. It’s a reliable, straightforward cultural outing, especially suited for those new to Chiang Mai or looking for an affordable, authentic experience.
Bottom Line: If you want a traditional, no-frills night of regional dishes and performances, this tour hits the mark.
$61.35 per person
13. Traditional Khum Khantoke Dinner from Chiang Mai with Cultural Dance Show
This Khum Khantoke Dinner at $61.11 combines a family-style northern Thai meal with a colorful dance show performed by hilltribe members. Guests can enjoy dishes like spicy dips and watch performances that showcase regional costumes. Reviewers mention the highlight of the evening is the vibrant dance routines and the opportunity to try local cuisine.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those wanting a comprehensive cultural program with authentic food.
$61.11 per person
14. Traditional Khantoke Dinner & Cultural Show Tour in Chiang Mai
At $30.99, this tour offers a traditional dinner with performances of northern Thai dances. It’s simple yet effective for culture and food lovers wanting a genuine experience. The performances are lively, and the regional dishes are hearty.
Bottom Line: Suitable for budget travelers seeking an authentic, straightforward cultural night.
$30.99 per person
15. Chiang Mai: Khantoke Dinner Experience with Hotel Transfers
Finally, the Khantoke Dinner Experience offers an inclusive evening with local dishes and live performances, all with the convenience of hotel transfers. It’s tailored for travelers who want to relax and enjoy the culture without logistical concerns.
Bottom Line: If fuss-free comfort is your priority, this tour provides a traditional experience with the ease of transportation.
$37 per person
How to Choose Your Dinner Experience in Chiang Mai
Picking the right dinner experience depends on your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend. If you’re passionate about cooking, Benny’s private class is unbeatable. For a cultural night with traditional music and dance, the Khantoke dinners or the small-group cultural tour provide immersive options. Those seeking entertainment and a lively atmosphere might prefer the Ladyboy Cabaret, while romantics can opt for the dinner cruise. Budget travelers will find value in the more affordable Khantoke options, while those looking for convenience should consider tours with included transfers.
Consider your preferred pace, whether you want an interactive cooking class, a spectacular performance, or simply a relaxing river cruise. Booking early, especially during peak season (November to February), guarantees you a spot.
Final Thoughts
Chiang Mai offers a broad spectrum of dinner experiences — from hands-on cooking classes and traditional cultural shows to lively cabaret nights and romantic river cruises. For an intimate, educational experience, Benny’s private cooking class stands out. If you want to soak in regional traditions with lively performances, the Khantoke dinners and small group cultural tour are excellent choices. For fun and flamboyance, the Ladyboy Cabaret shows are hard to beat. And for something different and scenic, the dinner cruise draws rave reviews.
Whatever your preferences, booking early and choosing a tour that matches your interests ensures a memorable, delicious night in Chiang Mai.