Ba(r)nana
Tucked away in Chiang Rai, Ba(r)nana is a cocktail bar built around a genuinely distinctive concept: the owner sources local ingredients, ferments spirits in-house, and creates everything from scratch. There is no fixed menu — guests describe their preferences and the bartender crafts something to match, resulting in a personal and creative drinking experience that changes with every visit. The atmosphere is relaxed and unhurried, drawing a crowd that appreciates craft and locality over flashy presentation.
The bar operates without a set cocktail list, which means the experience leans heavily on conversation and trust in the bartender's expertise. Visitors consistently highlight the quality of the homemade spirits and the owner's deep knowledge of regional produce as what sets Ba(r)nana apart from other bars in the area. The vibe is low-key and intimate, making it a comfortable spot for those who prefer a quieter, more considered night out.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Ba(r)nana, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
(Get a reservation first!) One of the absolute best ba(r)s in Thailand. The bar opens at the first customer’s reservation time and it’s almost always full so it’s best to call first. Other than that, you can sit back and let the mixologist do his thing. There’re no menus because the ingredients are 100% locally sourced (including spirits) and prep daily based on that he finds and it’s an absolute joy to be able to experience the local botanicals rarely used in cocktails. Will definitely come back every time I’m in Chiang Rai!
The best bar in town with effortless vibes, creativity, and cocktails made with local ingredients. The owner really knows his local products and makes the experience special. Will definitely come back every time I’m in Chiangrai😄
Such an assuming place that delivers uniquely curated cocktails all sourced from local ingredients. Be sure to call/msg for a reservation
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 61 reviews on Google.
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Ba(r)nana: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ba(r)nana worth visiting?
Ba(r)nana holds a 4.9★ rating from 61 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated nightlife & bars in Chiang Rai.
What are the opening hours of Ba(r)nana?
Ba(r)nana is typically open 19:00-00:00 — 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 Ba(r)nana?
Ba(r)nana is moderately priced (฿฿) relative to other nightlife & bars in Chiang Rai.
When is the best time to visit Ba(r)nana?
The best months to visit Chiang Rai are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – February — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: March – May (smoke & heat).
Where is Ba(r)nana located?
Ba(r)nana is at 296 11 หมู่ 15 Tambon Rop Wiang, อำเภอ เมือง Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand, in Chiang Rai. Getting around Chiang Rai: Grab (available in city centre); Songthaews.
Location Info
296 11 หมู่ 15 Tambon Rop Wiang, อำเภอ เมือง Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand094 443 3752www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087233018454&mibextid=LQQJ4dVisitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – September
Avg. temperature
14°C – 35°C(57°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Mae Fah Luang Airport (CEI) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). The bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. There's also a scenic Golden Triangle road trip from Chiang Mai.
Getting around
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Songthaews
- •Motorbike rental (฿200/day)
- •Car hire (for Golden Triangle & hill tribes)
Where to stay near Ba(r)nana
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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.
Nearby Places
Le Petit Cafe & Wine Club
A French-inspired wine bar and live music venue open Friday and Saturday nights in central Chiang Rai.
Saints Bar & Grill
A popular bar and grill on Chet Yot Road, right beside Chiang Rai's Clock Tower, serving steaks, burgers, and cold drinks.
Rooftop Chiang Rai
Casual rooftop bar near Chiang Rai's clocktower, serving cheap cocktails every evening from 5pm.
Ella Mojito bar Chiang Rai
A warmly lit cocktail bar on Jetyod Rd praised for expertly crafted mojitos and a welcoming owner.
Similar Nightlife & Bars Across Thailand
Pattaya Walking Street
Loud, neon, adults-only after dark, and the seafood is easier before the 9pm crush.
Nana Plaza
Adults-only, neon-soaked and unapologetic, and best understood after 9pm rather than described.
Khao San Road
Loud, tacky, unfiltered and worth one night of your trip, ideally between 7 and 10pm.
Café del Mar Phuket Beach Club
Come for sundowners at 4pm, stay for the DJs, and don't expect a quiet lunch.
Where to stay near Ba(r)nana
Find hotels in Chiang Rai on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – September
Avg. temperature
14°C – 35°C(57°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Mae Fah Luang Airport (CEI) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). The bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. There's also a scenic Golden Triangle road trip from Chiang Mai.
Getting around
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Songthaews
- •Motorbike rental (฿200/day)
- •Car hire (for Golden Triangle & hill tribes)