Thailand is one of our go-to holiday destinations with Chiang Mai, in particular, becoming an increasingly popular city where you can see sakura blossoms or get in on activities like bathing elephants at a jungle sanctuary. It’s also home to plenty of cafes like The Ironwood, a hidden gem surrounded by luscious greenery complete with photo spots, affordable food, and even its own cottages which you can book a stay in.
Here’s why you should give this cafe a go during your next Chiang Mai trip.
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The Ironwood’s indoor dining area has white walls and simple wooden furniture which gives a rustic, homely feel. We went for an indoor window seat for just the right mix of brightness from the sun and coolness from the aircon. If you’re someone who loves to people watch, this is a prime location to do just that, with the added plus of the view of the greenhouse.
The alfresco dining area is basically a large patio. And with the large leafy trees providing shade, you won’t have to worry about the glaring mid-day sun.
Creepy crawlies and flies are a common concern when dining in an outdoor space but all you really get here are the occasional butterflies.
We opted for one of their recommended dishes, the Shrimp Paste Fried Rice (200THB, ~S$8.70), a colourful ensemble of rice topped with edible flowers, anchovies, chilli padi, diced papaya and a sweet sauce tying it all together.
You’ll also find Thai fusion like the Mixed Thai Herbs Spicy Stir-Fried Spaghetti (300THB, ~S$12.95) and Paco Fern Spicy Salad (170THB, ~S$7.40).
Pair your meal with their coolers which come in fruity-floral flavours like Lychee Rose (85THB, ~S$3.70) and Lavender Lemonade (100THB, ~S$4.30). Caffeine addicts, replenish your system with the usual range of coffees such as an Iced Latte (90THB, ~S$3.90) or Iced Mocha (95THB, ~S$4.10).
The greenhouse, located just a few steps away from the dining area, has got to be the highlight of the place. Complete with all types of mini cacti, potted plants and leafy vines, it’s a great photo spot.
Entering this plant-filled glasshouse made me feel as if I’d stepped into the pages of the “garden” section of IKEA’s home decor catalogues.
Another pretty space in The Ironwood is the vintage-esque shed not too far from the dining area. It felt like I was visiting the backyard of someone’s house from the 1800s. There were tables with ornate carvings, wooden panels, and unpolished walls all around. All of which were accented by large hanging ferns and potted plants.
If you can’t get enough of The Ironwood, book a stay in one of the cottages in the compound from around S$100/night. These French-style houses fit 2 pax, and come with a double bed, as well as large living room area with comfy couches. Waking up to the view of the forestry and the fresh air, you’ll surely feel energised each morning.
Staying here means that you’ll get to conveniently settle all your meals at the cafe – that’s something any foodie would look forward to.
Image adapted from: @the_ironwood
Click here to book a stay. Alternatively, you can contact them through Instagram or Facebook.
Consider taking a trip to Chiang Mai and its outskirts where you can visit an Elephant Jungle Sanctuary or go trekking in Tham Lot Cave – with the cherry on top being cafe gems like this one. For an easy commute, book a private car charter – we got ours through Klook.
Address: 592/1, Mae Rim-Sameung Road, Mae Raem, Mae Rim 50180, Thailand
Opening Hours: 9AM-6PM, Daily
Telephone: +66 081 858 3555
Website
Visas for Singaporeans start from ~S$624.11.
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