Chiang Mai Kitchen
130A High Street, Oxford, OX1 4DH, GB
Rating: 4.4 ★ (1057 ratings)
Details
Chiang Mai Kitchen offers a distinctive dining experience within the historic Kemp Hall, a Grade II listed building dating back to 1637, tucked away down Kemp Hall Passage off Oxford's bustling High Street. This charming venue, once a police station and press, now delights with its cosy, family-run ambience, featuring period details like panelled walls, stone fireplaces, and an impressive carved oak staircase across its multi-level interior. The enticing aromas emanating from the kitchen often draw passers-by into its unique and characterful setting.
The restaurant prides itself on serving authentic, freshly prepared Thai cuisine, drawing inspiration from the northern city of Chiang Mai. Diners can explore a diverse menu, from popular dishes like Pad Thai and Green Curry to comforting Tom Ka soup and a selection of flavourful Red and Yellow Curries. Many dishes are beautifully presented with traditional Thai garnishes, and the establishment is noted for its delicious homemade sauces and an extensive separate menu catering to vegetarian and vegan preferences, including marked vegan desserts.
Chiang Mai Kitchen suits a variety of occasions, proving ideal for both intimate meals and larger group gatherings seeking genuine Thai flavours in a memorable setting. Its comfortable atmosphere and efficient service make it a wonderful choice for a relaxed lunch, a delightful evening meal, or even a pre-theatre dinner. Many consider it a staple for authentic Thai food in Oxford, making it a reliable destination for lovers of Asian cuisine.
Location
Opening Hours
Monday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM; Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM; Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM; Thursday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM; Friday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM; Saturday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM; Sunday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Contact
+44 1865 202233
Comments
My friend's dish was excellent, and the spring rolls we had as starters were delicious. The team was lovely and provided great service throughout our visit.
The service provided to us throughout our meal was also of top quality. Wouldn't hesitate to return again.
This restaurant offers good food, generous portions, and a lovely ambience—all at a very fair price. The flavors were enjoyable, and the service was friendly, making it a great spot for a casual meal in the city center. If I’m honest, it’s not the best Thai food you can have, but for the price, it’s definitely worth it. Would happily return!
I wasn’t the biggest fan of the crispy prawn noodles, they were a bit too sweet for me – but my friend liked them, so it might just be personal taste. Portions were huge; we couldn’t even finish everything. The calamari was another favourite – light, crispy, and super moreish. Would definitely come back.
Con: The food was too expensive for what it was and I felt that the price doesn’t actually reflect the quality but nonetheless it was tasty overall.
As a Thai home cook, I understand ingredient limitations abroad, but serving poor-quality, reheated food at these prices is unacceptable.