GREAT SHOT BAR CNX
Tucked along Thanon Arak in the heart of Chiang Mai's old city, Great Shot Bar CNX has built a strong following among cocktail enthusiasts for its inventive, signature drinks that blur the line between beverage and culinary experience. The bar's bold red interior catches the eye from the street, and what's inside lives up to the intrigue. The bartender is the main attraction here — passionate, skilled, and clearly in their element. Visitors consistently single out the creativity on display, with cocktails that incorporate unexpected savoury elements alongside fresh and refreshing profiles. Named drinks like "Low Key," "Exposure," and "White Balance" hint at a thoughtful, concept-driven menu rather than a standard spirits list. The atmosphere is intimate and social, drawing a mix of locals and travellers who tend to linger longer than planned. Good to know: Opening hours are not listed online, so it's worth checking locally or asking your accommodation before heading out. Given the bar's compact size and its reputation among repeat visitors, arriving earlier in the evening is a reasonable strategy to secure a seat. First-timers are encouraged to let the bartender guide the order — several reviewers note that describing your preferences leads to better results than choosing blindly from the menu.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After GREAT SHOT BAR CNX, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
Super good cocktails here! We’d already had two cocktails at another bar and dropped by this place after being attracted by the bold red interior. Told the boss we’d already had a couple of drinks and asked him to recommend what to try next — and it turned out amazing. I had a Negroni at the previous bar, so the boss introduced me to Low Key.jpg, a Negroni twist with a plum infusion. It really impressed me — smooth, easy-drinking, and the plum twist made it lighter and perfectly balanced, a great continuation from my previous cocktail. Highly recommended, and I’ll definitely be back again in the next few days. 🍸
Wow. The portrait is among the best cocktails I had in my life. That savoury note from dried fish mix with super refreshing watermelon sorbet I think I will remember forever! We had 6 all together and with two wee cups on the house. Every sip was so delicious and the creativity in the flavour and some technique was such a highlight. Pung (I hope I spell your name right sir if not please forgive me) was so nice and passionate about what he does. Love the conversation equally as our drinks. Will be back for sure. Highly recommended!!! Thank you for a great night.
By far the best cocktails we have ever tried. Every single drink had their unique signature. We first two did not even taste of a drink they closely resembled delicious meals. The last one was a beautiful fruity herbal cocktail of excellent quality. The IPA Mahanakhon is ideal for people not liking too fruity IPAs, love a good hoppy beer. The cocktails are absolute art in their own right!
Tips for Visiting Nightlife & Bars
Carry Your Passport or a Copy
Clubs and some bars check IDs strictly, especially in Bangkok's Thonglor, RCA, and Sukhumvit areas. A photo of your passport info page on your phone usually works, but carrying a laminated photocopy is safer.
Know the Closing Times
Legal closing time is 2 AM for most venues, though enforcement varies. In Bangkok's designated entertainment zones (RCA, Silom Soi 2/4, Khao San), some clubs stay open until 4 AM. Islands tend to be more relaxed about hours.
Buy Bucket Drinks Cautiously
Island bucket drinks (mixed spirits in a small bucket) are cheap and fun but notoriously strong and inconsistent. Stick to one, stay hydrated, and never leave your drink unattended at beach parties.
Also Popular in Chiang Mai
Doi Suthep Temple
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Tha Phae Gate
Chiang Mai's iconic eastern gate to the Old City, a historic Lanna-era landmark free to visit any time.
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Bustling night market featuring street food vendors & local crafts, plus souvenirs.
Wat Phra That Doi Kham
A hilltop golden Buddha temple near Chiang Mai offering panoramic city views, free entry, and genuine tranquillity.
Similar Nightlife & Bars Across Thailand
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Khao San Road
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Café del Mar Phuket Beach Club
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Illuzion Phuket
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Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
15°C – 36°C(59°F – 97°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January & Songkran (April)
Getting there
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) has direct flights from Bangkok (1 hr), Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Overnight sleeper trains from Bangkok take ~12 hrs.
Getting around
- •Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks)
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Motorbike rental (฿150–250/day)
- •Tuk-tuks (negotiate price first)