The Khan Toke Banquet

Unique foods and entertainment are what the Khan Toke is all about. From ancient Siamese music to simple Hill Tribe songs and folk dances, sword dancing and the exotic Khon masked drama.

Whether you are a guest at a local wedding or attending one of the tourist dinner shows, expect to learn something about the old Lanna Kingdom and Chiang Mai cultures. Although my own favorite is the Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center for my own sentimental reasons, each dinner and show is a little different and all of them pay attention to authenticity as well giving a very enjoyable evening.

Menus will vary to include seasonal specialties and produce availability but will always include a mixture of the most popular Thai food stand-byes and traditional dishes of Lanna. A typical dinner may include; Tom Young Goong - the popular coconut milk and lemon grass flavored shrimp soup, laab - beef minced with chili peppers, gaeng hang lay - northern pork curry flavored with ginger, gaeng kai - a smooth chicken and vegetable curry, and a crisp and savory fried chicken. The staples are kap moo - crispy fried pork skins, sticky rice - eaten with your hands from individual covered baskets, and for dipping is one or more varieties of nam prik - the sometimes fiery paste made from roasted green chilies.

Seating is usually on floor cushions arranged around low tables but most venues will have tables with chairs available if requested.

Book in advance for yourself or through any tour service for one the first class productions. Definitely a good night out, popular with locals as well as tourists.

Go along with a visitor in the video below.