


Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, Bistro & Bar
Set along the banks of the Kok River in Chiang Rai, this well-regarded coffee house, bistro, and bar combines a lush garden setting with a menu that draws on seasonal ingredients to produce both Thai classics and international dishes. The space earns consistent praise for its relaxed, peaceful atmosphere during the day and a warmer, more romantic ambiance after dark, making it a versatile destination for a leisurely morning coffee or a full evening meal. The food is a genuine highlight, with visitors frequently calling out the khao soi, truffle burger, and duck with pineapple rice as standout dishes. The menu covers considerable ground, ranging from café fare to more considered bistro cooking, and the bar rounds out the offering for those staying into the evening. Staff are widely noted for their friendliness, and the garden setting adds a welcome sense of calm that can be hard to find in a busy travel itinerary. Open every day from 9am to 10pm, the venue suits most schedules and budgets, sitting in the mid-range price bracket. The atmosphere shifts noticeably between daytime and evening service, so visitors should choose their visit based on the experience they are after. Those arriving for dinner, particularly on weekends, may want to check ahead via the venue's website to avoid a wait, as the location draws both tourists and locals in steady numbers.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, Bistro & Bar, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
We discovered Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House in Chiang Rai via Google Maps and decided to pay it a visit, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable spots on our trip. The café is housed in a beautifully preserved colonial-style house by the Kok River, surrounded by a lush garden and riverside lawn, which instantly sets a relaxed, inviting tone. We chose to sit outside, in the garden area by the river, the atmosphere was calm, green, and beautifully laid out with beautiful furniture and river views. I also walked through the indoor spaces and could see the charm: wooden ceilings, vintage style décor, a cozy bar/restaurant vibe. The blend of a historic building, greenery, water nearby and tasteful design gives the place a unique character. For brunch we had two of their bowls, generously portioned, beautifully presented, fresh and flavorful. We also tried a couple of main dishes; both the portion size and presentation were impressive, and the taste was consistently great. The café’s bakery and dessert selection looked extensive and inviting; everything we sampled was top quality. The drinks: iced coffee and a doubele espresso were well made and refreshing. Service was friendly, efficient and relaxed, you felt welcome without any fuss. Overall, Chivit Thamma Da combines elegance, comfort, good food and a lovely natural/riverside setting. If you find yourself in Chiang Rai, whether for coffee, brunch or a relaxed dinner, this place is a solid recommendation.
This café and restaurant by the river in Chiang Rai is simply amazing 😍 The garden is peaceful and beautiful, and we were warmly greeted by a lovely dog. How cute is that 🥰 The staff is super friendly, attentive and speaks English very well. I loved the vintage cups, the large pitchers of flavored water and all the little thoughtful details – there’s even a piano you can play if you know how! The food is phenomenal and although a bit pricier, it’s absolutely worth it. We visited almost every day during our three-day stay, for coffee and sometimes lunch and every time it was a wonderful experience. Highly recommended!
Fantastic spot right on the river, really peaceful and relaxed especially during the day. The dinner service is slightly more formal but it suites. The food is incredible, fresh, and the staff are so knowledgeable and helpful with recommendations etc. More expensive that other places but honestly, it’s worth it. A great way to end your stay in Chiang Rai.
Location Info
179 หมู่ที่ 2 Bannrongseartean Soi 3, Tambon Rim Kok, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand+66 81 984 2925www.chivitthammada.com/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)
Where to stay near Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, Bistro & Bar
Find hotels in Chiang Rai on the booking sites travellers trust most.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
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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Wat Huay Pla Kang
A vast Buddhist complex in Chiang Rai featuring a 79-metre Guan Yin statue and a climbable 9-floor pagoda.
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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)
Where to stay near Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, Bistro & Bar
Find hotels in Chiang Rai on the booking sites travellers trust most.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.