The River Lofts
Situated along the banks of the Ping River in Chiang Mai, The River Lofts offers a relaxed dining and drinking experience in a setting that makes the most of its waterside location. The venue is primarily an outdoor space, with seating scattered across the riverside area, making it a pleasant spot to settle in for an evening as the city cools down. Live music adds to the atmosphere, and the attentive staff have drawn consistent praise from visitors for their friendliness and warm service. The food has been well received by diners, with visitors noting good quality and generous portions. The drinks menu includes beer promotions such as a 3-for-2 special, and table service keeps glasses topped up throughout the evening. The combination of food, drinks, live music, and a riverside backdrop gives the venue a well-rounded appeal for both casual meals and longer evening stays. Good to know: The River Lofts is open every day from 09:30 until midnight, making it a flexible option for both daytime visits and late-night dining. However, at least one recent review suggests the venue may have closed, so travellers are advised to check the Facebook page at the link provided before making a special trip.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After The River Lofts, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
My first visit, had the 3 for 2 beer special, pretty girls topped up my beer glass with ice and Chang, as and when necessary! All part of the service! Mainly an outdoor space with seating scattered around, beside the Ping river. Was bought a cushion to make seats more comfortable. Live music as well!
Beautiful place at the Ping River the girls work fantastic. Every time very friendly.
Sadly now closed RIP The River Lofts
Location Info
111/11 Tambon Pa Daet, เมือง Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand+66 97 950 1191www.facebook.com/theriverloftchiangmai/Tips for Visiting Restaurants & Food
Learn the Spice Scale
Say 'mai pet' for no spice, 'pet nit noi' for a little spice, or 'pet mak' if you want it Thai-hot. Most cooks will default to a toned-down version for foreigners unless you specify otherwise.
Follow the Crowds
The busiest street stalls are almost always the best — high turnover means fresh ingredients and a recipe that locals vouch for. An empty restaurant at dinner time is a red flag.
Ice Is Safe
Factory-made tube or cylinder ice (used in virtually all restaurants and stalls) is made from purified water and is safe to consume. You don't need to skip the iced Thai tea.
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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)