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Restaurants & Food
Chiang Mai

The Riverside Bar & Restaurant

4.3(2,410 reviews)$$$$

Sitting along Charoen Rat Road in the Chang Moi area of central Chiang Mai, this established riverside venue draws a steady mix of travellers and locals looking for a low-key place to eat and drink near the water. The combination of a full restaurant and bar under one roof gives it a flexibility that suits a range of visits, from a casual dinner to an evening drink while watching the river. The atmosphere leans relaxed and unhurried, making it a comfortable choice for those who want to step away from the busier city-centre streets. Mid-range pricing keeps it accessible, and the riverside setting adds a distinct quality that separates it from standard dining options in the area. Its position also makes it a convenient stop for travellers exploring the nearby old city. Good to know: opening hours are not publicly listed online, so it is worth confirming details through your accommodation or by checking locally before heading over. Late afternoon is generally a pleasant time to arrive, when the heat of the day begins to ease and the riverside setting is at its most enjoyable. As no website is currently available, planning ahead through your hotel or guesthouse is the most reliable approach.

Experience hints

Mid-range

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The Riverside Bar & Restaurant: Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Riverside Bar & Restaurant worth visiting?

The Riverside Bar & Restaurant holds a 4.3★ rating from 2,410 Google reviews — a strong rating for restaurants & food in Chiang Mai.

How expensive is The Riverside Bar & Restaurant?

The Riverside Bar & Restaurant is moderately priced (฿฿) relative to other restaurants & food in Chiang Mai.

When is the best time to visit The Riverside Bar & Restaurant?

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: March – May (smoke & heat).

Where is The Riverside Bar & Restaurant located?

The Riverside Bar & Restaurant is at 9 11 ถนน เจริญราษฎร์ Tambon Chang Moi, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand, in Chiang Mai. Getting around Chiang Mai: Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks); Grab (available in city centre).

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

High

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)

Where to stay near The Riverside Bar & Restaurant

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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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