It takes some balls to open a Nepalese-themed restaurant that doesn’t serve any Nepalese food. Step forward Iames Basecamp (www.fb.com/iamesbasecamp), a bohemian vision of Himalayan fabrics and reclaimed central Asian woodwork on the rooftop of Chiang Mai’s hip indoor-slash-outdoor mall, One Nimman.

The menu, however, is all about no-nonsense Thai classics, from the traditional tom yum kung with thick, aromatic broth (B180) to the pungent mango and shrimp paste dip served with fresh vegetables and cha om omelet (B120).

Visit during the day for good coffee, affordable lunches and to browse their ethnic fashion collections, or check back at night when the full booze-shelves come into play and local DJs light up the sound system.

Credit: www.fb.com/iamesbasecamp