🔄 Updated 21 Jun 2026
Most people know nam ngiao from Chiang Mai, but Phrae has its own take on it — and locals eat it for breakfast almost every day. Most shops open before sunrise, with broth that's been simmering since 4 a.m., and they often sell out well before noon. This guide covers the spots Phrae locals mention most and that are still open for business.
Nam Sai, Nam Ngiao, Nam Yoi — What's the Difference?
Before you start hopping between shops, knowing the broth options will make ordering much easier — most Phrae shops offer several in the same place.
- Nam Sai (clear pork broth) — a light, clear soup made from pork bones and coriander root, no curry paste, pale in colour, easy on the stomach. This is what locals call 'khanom sen nam sai.'
- Nam Ngiao — richer and more complex, made with curry paste, tomatoes, pork blood, and dried cotton-tree flowers (dok ngio) that add a gentle tartness. Deep orange-red in colour.
- Nam Yoi — a Phrae-specific term, closest in style to nam sai / clear pork broth. People from outside Phrae may not recognise the name, but older local shops use it.
- Accompaniments — whichever broth you choose, it always comes with fresh herbs (Chinese cabbage, bean sprouts, holy basil), crispy pork rinds (kaep mu), and chilli powder on the side.
Order Like a Local
Can't decide between clear broth and nam ngiao? Ask for half-and-half in the same bowl — many shops will do it. Add an extra bag of pork rinds on the side and drop them in gradually so you get both crunch and a bit of soak.
Want to taste deeper? Try a Phrae food tour or cooking class
Half a day with a local who knows the lanes — or cooking a dish yourself — teaches you more than just eating. Book ahead on Klook or GetYourGuide.
10 Khanom Jeen Shops in Phrae That Locals Go Back To
Listed from the easiest in-town options for visitors first, then moving out toward Long district. Prices are approximate ranges from reviewer reports and may shift over time.
Pun Jai
The most talked-about spot among out-of-towners. The draw is having multiple broth styles under one roof — Phrae-style nam ngiao, nam phrik nam yoi, fish-based nam ya, and even green curry. There's a set option good for groups, and the seating is comfortable right in the town centre.
Khanom Jeen Pa Da (Behind Nareeraht School)
A decades-old shop that older Phrae residents know well. Located in town near the Chaloem Phrakiat health garden on Kham Lue Road. The broth has that traditional, hand-built flavour — straightforward and easy to eat, good for a quick breakfast before walking the old town.
Khanom Sen Pa Somjit, Ban Lao
A local favourite passed along by word of mouth. The shop is set within a house compound near Ban Lao School. Choices include clear pork broth, nam ngiao, and coconut-milk nam ya. The flavour is genuinely home-style — bold and well-spiced.
Ban Khanom Sen (Opposite Amorn Rak Hotel)
Easy to find for guests staying in town — it's directly across from Amorn Rak Hotel. The clear pork broth is the standout, with soft noodles. Perfect for rolling out of your guesthouse and straight into breakfast.
Khanom Sen Sai Lom Joy
A neighbourhood breakfast spot near Phiriyalai School. The clear pork broth with pork and blood cubes goes down easily. Priced for everyday eating.
Khanom Jeen Yai Pong (Behind Phiriyalai School)
A small shop tucked behind Phiriyalai School. The nam ngiao here leans bold — spicy and fragrant with curry spices. People who like their broth punchy tend to keep coming back.
Khanom Sen Duang Net
Set in a residential neighbourhood with parking available. Serves the signature Phrae-style clear pork broth in a relaxed setting — works well for families arriving by car.
Nam Yoi Mueang Pae
Proper local food at genuinely low prices. Order a small set and top up the broth as you go. Good for anyone who wants to try traditional-style nam yoi without spending much.
Khanom Sen Nam Yoi Mae Lan
A shop that several food media outlets have covered. The nam yoi here has the rounded, familiar flavour Phrae locals grew up with — another good stop for anyone doing a serious khanom jeen trail in the city.
Khanom Sen Nam Yoi Pa Lak 100 Pi (Long District)
Out in Long district, this shop traces its recipe back over 100 years to an ancestor called Ui Mun — said to be the original recipe holder in the district. If you're driving through Long, it's worth the stop. This flavour doesn't exist in town.
Go Early
Many Phrae khanom jeen shops sell out before noon — especially the long-established ones. If you want the legendary shops, aim for 7–9 a.m. to be safe. Show up late and you may find a closed sign already up.
How to Eat It Like a Phrae Local
- Pile on the herbs — the fresh veg on the side is unlimited. Locals load it up heavily to cut through the richness of the broth.
- Break the pork rinds in gradually — snap kaep mu into the bowl in pieces so they absorb a little broth before you eat them. You get both crunch and soft in the same bite.
- Season to taste — Phrae broth tends toward neutral, so adjust with chilli powder and fish sauce yourself. No one will mind.
- Order half-and-half — try clear broth and nam ngiao in the same sitting. It's the best value move for a first visit.
Planning a Khanom Jeen Trail in Phrae
If you're serious about tracking down the full range, two days works well. Day one covers the in-town shops on foot. Day two takes you out to Long district for the original recipe.
In-Town Phrae Shops
Out to the Original Recipe in Long District
Want somewhere well-placed to wake up early and head straight to breakfast?
See Phrae Hotels →