The White Rabbit
Tucked away on the second floor of an old building along Phrapokklao Road, The White Rabbit is a speakeasy-style cocktail bar that rewards those who seek it out. Accessed via a short alley and a couple of flights of stairs, the venue has a deliberately understated entrance that adds to its sense of intrigue. It sits just a short walk from Chiang Mai's North Gate, making it a natural stop for an evening in the old city area. Inside, the atmosphere is intimate and whimsical, leaning into its Alice in Wonderland namesake with a sense of mystery and careful design. The bar focuses exclusively on cocktails, with a creative menu that draws on complex flavour profiles and fresh ingredients. Drinks like the negroni and whiskey sour have drawn particular praise from visitors, and pricing is considered reasonable for the quality on offer. The crowd tends to be a mix of locals and travellers who appreciate a more considered drinking experience over a standard bar crawl. Good to know: The White Rabbit does not have a website listed, and opening hours are not publicly confirmed, so it is worth checking in advance before making the trip — particularly on quieter nights of the week. Smart casual attire suits the upscale but relaxed setting. Given the intimate size of the venue, arriving earlier in the evening is a sensible strategy if you are visiting with a larger group.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After The White Rabbit, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
Strictly a cocktail bar, the White Rabbit has a nice vibe and an interesting set-up as it's down a short alley and up a couple flights of stairs. There's a whimsical sense of mystery combined with delight once you enter the chill and well-appointed lounge. Staff is old-school polished and friendly without being obtrusive or snooty. Attired nicely with the manners of a Presbyterian minister, they provide excellent information on their creative concoctions. They are consummate professionals. I had an interesting variation on a Dirty Martini and followed it with an Illusion, a bourbon based drink that is a bit Manhattanesque. It won. They have great AC and play excellent music. It's relaxing. It's a top-flight bar anywhere. I've been in thousands of bars including some Esquire Top 50 spots. The White Rabbit is up with the top 20 or so in my estimation. You should go!
I went to this speakeasy with a group of seven people and had a wonderful time. The menu is incredibly well-crafted and creative. The drinks were simply delicious. The atmosphere was perfect for a night of good conversation. Please note that the restaurant is fairly nondescript and can be somewhat hard to find, as it is located in an alley. The drinks are on the more expensive side for Thailand, but still worth it.
A true hidden gem near Chiang Mai's North Gate. The White Rabbit is an upscale, intimate cocktail bar that feels like a secret find. The cocktails are artfully crafted and delicious, and the service is elegant and attentive. If you're looking for a quiet, sophisticated spot for a drink, this is it.
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
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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)