Nestled in the picturesque hills of northern Thailand, Mae Kampong is a charming village that’s perfect for a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. What truly sets this little gem apart, besides its stunning landscapes and friendly locals, is the incredible range of coffee shops offering some of the best brews I’ve ever had the pleasure of tasting.
As I strolled through the narrow streets, the inviting aroma of fresh coffee wafted through the air, luring me into quaint cafés adorned with vibrant decor and picturesque views. I couldn’t resist compiling a list of the top five coffee shops in Mae Kampong, each unique in its own right and all contributing to an unforgettable experience.
5 Best Coffee Shops in Mae Kampong
Cafe 1: Ing Dao
Mae Kampong is truly a gem hidden in the mountains of Chiang Mai. I recently visited this beautiful village and discovered Ing Dao, a quaint cafe tucked away in the heart of nature. This cozy spot offers delicious coffee surrounded by lush greenery and a soothing waterfall. The outdoor seating truly immerses the patrons in nature, and the friendly staff made me feel right at home.
Cafe 2: The Giant Tree Coffee Shop
On my journey, I was thrilled to stumble upon the Giant Tree Coffee Shop. As the name suggests, this enchanting place is built around an enormous tree that adds to the cafe’s charm. The picturesque views of the mountains were complemented by a warm cup of coffee brewed using various techniques such as the Syphon, Dripper, and Aeropress. I couldn’t help but feel at ease as I savored my drink, listening to the gentle sounds of nature.
Cafe 3: Chomnok Chommai
Chomnok Chommai is a bohemian riverside-style coffee shop with elongated angled windows overlooking a breathtaking grandstand view. Everything about this place screams relaxation, from the interesting decor to the delectable desserts served alongside their specialty Arabica coffee and teas. Riverside coffee shops like these are hard to come by, and Chomnok Chommai surely stands out as one of Mae Kampong’s best.
Cafe 4: The Garret
Nestled in the mountains, The Garret is a homestay and cafe that provides a perfect escape for tourists seeking solace amidst coffee plantations. The cafe offers warm and flavorful coffee using unique brewing methods like the Pirubya, Syphon, ROX, and Mokkapot. My visit to The Garret was truly a delight, and I look forward to many more visits in the future.
Cafe 5: Coffee Shop at Teen Tok Royal Project Development Centre
Finally, I must mention the Coffee Shop at Teen Tok Royal Project Development Centre. This magnificent cafe proudly serves Royal Project products, which include expertly brewed coffee, specialist tea, and a variety of tasty treats. The relaxing ambiance of the cafe allowed me to truly appreciate the efforts of the Royal Project while enjoying the tranquil outdoor seating area.
All in all, Mae Kampong is a coffee lover’s paradise, with numerous charming cafes amidst the picturesque mountains and verdant landscapes to explore.
Exploring Mae Kampong Village
Natural Attractions
As I ventured through the picturesque Mae Kampong Village, I couldn’t help but be captivated by the abundance of natural attractions. Nestled in the mountains, this charming village boasts a pleasant temperature perfect for exploring the lush greenery and crisp, fresh air.
I also discovered a stunning waterfall, where the refreshing water cascaded over rocks and provided a serene atmosphere for relaxation. The surrounding trails led me through dense forests, locals tending to their coffee plants, and I could occasionally spot some wildlife hidden among the trees.
Local Life and Culture
Mae Kampong Village offers an authentic experience of local life and culture in Thailand. The warmth and hospitality of the residents are truly heartwarming, and they welcomed me into their homes as if I were family. Many folks here make their living through coffee farming and their traditional methods are a fascinating aspect of visiting this village.
I had the opportunity to stay at a homestay with a local family, and it was one of the highlights of my visit to Mae Kampong. The family shared their stories, offered delicious home-cooked meals, and even taught me some traditional Thai customs.
The Royal Project and Teen Tok Development Centre
As I made my way through the picturesque Mae Kampong, I couldn’t help but be drawn to the Teen Tok Royal Project Development Centre. Upon entering, I was immediately greeted with a sense of tranquility and spaciousness that gave the place a unique charm.
The Royal Project, established by the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, has the noble goal of promoting sustainable agriculture while also improving the livelihoods of local farmers. The Teen Tok Centre itself showcases the success of these initiatives, offering an array of Royal Project products that highlight the region’s organic and high-quality produce.
The visit to the Centre was made even more delightful by the discovery of a relaxed coffee shop on site. As I savored my cup of delicious coffee, I noticed the attention paid to offering a range of locally sourced, delectable treats that truly put the freshness and quality of the ingredients on display.
During my visit, I ventured outside to explore the well-manicured grounds, which featured a number of informative displays about the Royal Project’s initiatives. This provided an interesting, immersive learning experience for someone like myself who wanted to know more about this amazing endeavor.
Every once in a while, it’s refreshing to find a place that is not just focused on providing a memorable experience, but also one that genuinely improves the lives of others. The Teen Tok Royal Project Development Centre is one such location that perfectly marries both these ideals. From their tasty treats to their impact on the region, this is a place that invigorates your senses, warms your heart, and invites you to be a part of a worthy initiative.
Coffee and Tea Specialties
During my visit to Mae Kampong, I had the pleasure of sampling various coffee and tea specialties at the top coffee shops in this charming village. It was an experience that any coffee or tea enthusiast would cherish!
One of the highlights was undoubtedly Pirubya Coffee. This cozy café inside the village not only impressed me with its incredible coffee but also its old-school brewing techniques. I watched in awe as they skillfully crafted each cup using various brewing methods like Syphon, Dripper, Aeropress, ROX, and Mokkapot. You could tell the owners are true coffee fanatics and their passion for it translated into every single serving.
At these specialty coffee shops, I discovered the unparalleled flavors of Mae Kampong’s homegrown Arabica coffee. The rich and distinct taste of this high-quality coffee is something I’ll never forget and would highly recommend to anyone visiting the area.
For those who prefer tea over coffee, fret not, Mae Kampong has something in store for you as well. I stumbled upon some specialist tea shops during my exploration, offering a vast selection of locally sourced teas with unique and refreshing flavors. These tea shops use the village’s lush, green surroundings to their advantage, cultivating and harvesting some of the finest tea leaves.
Here’s a brief rundown of the brewing methods and specialty drinks I encountered on this delightful journey:
- Syphon: A delicate and intricate process that results in a coffee with remarkable clarity and flavor
- Dripper: Producing a clean, flavorful cup by allowing water to flow through the coffee grounds at a consistent rate
- Aeropress: A quick, efficient method that yields a smooth and robust coffee
- ROX: An innovative brewing technique that promises a full-bodied beverage
- Mokkapot: An Italian classic that combines both pressure and steam to produce a rich, velvety coffee
- Arabica coffee: The superior quality of Mae Kampong’s homegrown beans guarantees an exquisite taste
- Specialist tea: Local tea shops offer a diverse selection of exclusive blends, providing a delightful alternative for tea lovers
Being immersed in Mae Kampong’s coffee and tea culture, I found myself not only falling in love with the beverages but also appreciating the strong sense of community and dedication to the craft that runs through the village. So, take a trip down to Mae Kampong and embark on your own coffee and tea journey – you won’t be disappointed!
How to Get There and Enjoy the Experience
As a travel writer, I have had the pleasure of experiencing various coffee shops and eateries in numerous locations. Mae Kampong, a charming village nestled in the jungle of Chiang Mai province, offers a delightful coffee and food experience. In this article, I will share with you how to get there and maximize your enjoyment on this remarkable food journey.
Bike Tours and Rentals
One superb way to traverse the surroundings of Mae Kampong is by bike. Chiang Mai is known for its availability of bike tours and rentals to explore the region. As I rode through the picturesque landscape, I couldn’t help but appreciate the natural beauty and charm of the lush green mountains and paddy fields. With well-maintained paths and a friendly atmosphere, I found the biking experience to be both invigorating and serene.
Recommended Coffee and Food Pairings
Mae Kampong is not only a visual treat but also a haven for coffee enthusiasts and foodies alike. Here are some coffee places and food pairings that have made the top of my list:
- Pirubya Coffee – Known for its incredible coffee brewed using various methods like Syphon, Dripper, and Aeropress, this café also serves some delicious homemade treats. The owners are quite hospitable and well-informed.
- Chomnok Chommai – It’s hard not to fall in love with the exceptional view from this café. Pair their special iced coffee with mouthwatering desserts for a heavenly indulgence.
- Lung Pud Pa Peng – A popular spot among tourists and locals alike, this prominent location offers some great food options along with a unique selection of coffee blends.
As I savored the delightful combination of great food and coffee, I couldn’t help but be captivated by the enchanting beauty and charm of Mae Kampong. The warm and friendly atmosphere made my experience all the more enjoyable. So, whether you prefer to explore the village by bike or simply want to sit back and relax in one of the amazing coffee shops, I believe Mae Kampong is a must-visit destination for all travelers!