THE A TER - Steak & Music
Sitting on Charoen Prathet Road in Chiang Mai's main entertainment district, this venue carves out a distinct niche by pairing a serious steak and cocktail menu with a genuine live music programme. It draws a mixed crowd of locals and visitors looking for an evening out that goes beyond the typical bar scene, with standout dishes including 8-second fried beef, truffle fried rice with diced beef in a hot pot, and cheese platters that earn repeat mentions from regulars. The atmosphere is widely described as warm and inviting, with a pleasant scent, a well-curated music playlist on the projector, and live performances that add real energy to the room — Friday evenings feature live jazz from around 7pm. Prices are considered reasonable for the quality and experience on offer, and the service is generally attentive and friendly, though a few visitors note that food and drink orders can take longer than expected during busier periods. Good to know: Slow service is a recurring theme in reviews, so arriving without a tight schedule makes for a more relaxed experience. For groups or special occasions, contacting the venue ahead of time is worthwhile, as the combination of dining and live entertainment makes it a popular choice on weekends. The Charoen Prathet Road location is convenient for combining with other nearby spots in the area.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After THE A TER - Steak & Music, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, the scent in the room is subtle and pleasant, and the prices are surprisingly reasonable. The staff are attentive, friendly, and genuinely know how to take care of guests. But above all else .... the music is exceptionl!!! I think it’s fair to say I’ve officially become a fan.
I really enjoyed the 8-second fried beef and the truffle fried rice with diced beef served in a hot pot. The atmosphere was great. However, the service felt a bit slow at times, especially when calling staff to order and to pay.
Just perfect! Live Music, good food and great vibes - a Must try if you are in Chiang Mai and like steak or Cheese platters. Kudos to Justin, Korn and Pim and team for being courteous and accommodating to adjust dishes to halal.
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
Hilltop temple overlooking Chiang Mai with stunning golden chedi
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
Nana Plaza
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Khao San Road
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Café del Mar Phuket Beach Club
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Illuzion Phuket
One of Phuket's biggest nightclubs, sitting at the heart of Bangla Road's famous entertainment strip.
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)