Book’s Cafe & Bistro Chiangrai
Tucked along Soi Sanpanard in Chiang Rai's Wiang district, this cafe and bistro doubles as a live music venue and bar, offering a relaxed garden setting that draws a mix of locals and travellers looking for a low-key evening out. The outdoor garden atmosphere is a genuine highlight, with visitors regularly noting its charm as one of the more quietly enjoyable spots in the city after dark. The menu leans toward Western bistro fare — including pasta, pizza, and fish and chips — alongside drinks and happy hour offerings. Food quality receives mixed feedback, with some dishes landing better than others, so drinks and the atmosphere may be the stronger draw on any given night. Live music is a recurring feature, though performances tend to begin later in the evening, so arriving closer to the later end of opening hours gives a better chance of catching a set. A few practical points worth noting: the venue opens at 3pm daily and stays open until midnight most nights, with Monday hours extending to 1am. The kitchen can be slow during quieter periods, so patience is advisable if ordering food. Pricing sits on the higher side relative to local alternatives, which is worth factoring in. Those prioritising atmosphere, garden seating, and live music over value-for-money dining are likely to leave more satisfied than those arriving primarily for the food.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Book’s Cafe & Bistro Chiangrai, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
Chiang Rai Evening – Where Happy Hour Meets Live Music Charm We stopped in for a simple happy-hour drink and immediately discovered one of Chiang Rai’s most quietly enjoyable evening corners. The atmosphere is relaxed, the lighting warm, and the soundtrack—at first—a gentle prelude as the musician prepares for the night’s set. There’s something disarmingly charming about the scene: guests easing into their seats, cocktails arriving perfectly chilled, and a performer tuning his guitar with the focused intensity of someone about to debut at a jazz festival. It adds an unplanned, slightly playful energy to the room. The mood is upbeat, the staff welcoming, and the space has that rare balance of being stylish without trying too hard. It’s the kind of place where you stop “just for one drink” and suddenly find yourself settling in, waiting happily for the next song to begin. A small, pleasant surprise in Chiang Rai’s evening landscape—and well worth a visit.
We had a lovely evening in the garden. Unfortunately, we arrived a bit too late to fully enjoy the music. But what we could enjoy was wonderful! Delicious food, catering well to vegetarian needs (removing fish sauce :)). The staff is very friendly. We will come back!
Almost always empty. Have a really nice, laid back garden. On the other hand, it is quite pricey given that the same dished can be bought for half the price elsewhere - but have to give, it was a good one, althought nothing special in my opinion.
Location Info
เวียง 26 หมู่ที่ 18 ถนน Soi Sanpanard, Tambon Wiang, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand+66 96 697 0002Tips 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 – 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). Bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. 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)