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The Moat House

A cozy old city bar and pub serving food, hosting live events, and welcoming a lively mixed crowd.

4.6(538)$$$$
Directions

Plan your visit

Hours
Daily 08:00–23:45
Price
$$$$
Mid-range

Carry Your Passport or a Copy

Clubs and some bars check IDs strictly, the big clubs most of all. A photo of your passport info page on your phone usually works, but carrying a laminated photocopy is safer.

Details

Full opening hours
Monday08:00–23:45
Tuesday08:00–23:45
Wednesday08:00–23:45
Thursday08:00–23:45
Friday08:00–23:45
Saturday08:00–23:45
Sunday08:00–23:45

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Why go, and how to do it well

Sitting right on Mun Mueang Road along the edge of Chiang Mai's old city moat, this bar and pub has carved out a reputation as one of the more characterful spots in the area. It operates as both a drinking venue and a proper dining destination, with visitors praising dishes like lamb shank massaman curry and consistently good food overall. The venue also hosts live events — from Burns Night celebrations complete with bagpipes to official afterparties for local sporting tournaments like the Chiang Mai 11s rugby tournament — giving it a social energy that goes beyond a standard bar.

The atmosphere leans relaxed and welcoming, with a spacious, airy interior and outdoor seating along the walkway that makes it a natural choice for people-watching over an evening drink. It draws a genuinely mixed crowd of locals, expats, and travelers, and the mid-range pricing means a full evening of food and drinks remains accessible without feeling like a trade-off on quality. Solo visitors, groups, and couples all appear to find their footing here comfortably.

Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Aug 2026

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Around here, on foot

Well-rated places within a short walk of The Moat House, nearest first. Minutes are at an easy pace in the heat.

Experience hints

Visitor favorite
Mid-range

Reviews from Google

The Moat House is such a cozy place to chill. Located right on the main road, the restaurant is spacious, airy, and easy to find—perfect for a casual hangout or a relaxed evening drink. They offer a good selection of food and drinks, and everything is reasonably priced. Definitely great value for the quality and atmosphere you get. The staff is lovely and very friendly, making the experience even more enjoyable. If you’re looking for a laid-back spot with good vibes, fair prices, and great service, I definitely recommend The Moat House.

We stopped because of the menu options and the ability to sit outside on the walkway to people watch casually. The food was stellar! The service was very good and priced right.

Had the lamb shank massaman curry, which ok. Sadly the mash was a bit hard, and the shank was a bit cold. 😅 Just make the mash a bit more creamy, and make sure the shank is hot. Other than that, the dish was a banger! 😁

A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 538 reviews on Google.

3, 33 Mun Mueang Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

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Tips for Visiting Nightlife & Bars

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.

Arrange Your Ride Home

Use Grab (ride-hailing app) to get home safely — taxis outside nightlife areas late at night often refuse meters. Set up the app before going out, and keep your phone charged.

The Moat House: Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Moat House worth visiting?

The Moat House holds a 4.6★ rating from 538 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated nightlife & bars in Chiang Mai.

What are the opening hours of The Moat House?

The Moat House is typically open 08:00–23:45 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.

How expensive is The Moat House?

The Moat House is moderately priced (฿฿) relative to other nightlife & bars in Chiang Mai.

When is the best time to visit The Moat House?

The best months to visit Chiang Mai are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January & Songkran (April) — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: Mid-February – April (smoke & heat).

Where is The Moat House located?

The Moat House is at 3, 33 Mun Mueang Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, in Chiang Mai. Getting around Chiang Mai: Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks); Grab (available in city center).

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