De Lanna Riverfront Café & Restaurant
Sitting along the banks of the river on Kwae Wai Road in central Chiang Rai, this large open-air venue draws visitors with its relaxed waterfront setting and a wide-ranging menu that covers Thai, Chinese, and Western dishes. The space is notably generous in size — large enough to host banquets — making it equally suited to solo travellers, families, and larger groups passing through the city. Visitors can expect authentic Thai flavours, including well-seasoned dishes with fresh spicy condiments, alongside seafood options such as fish and crab, and reliable Western staples. Coffee is also a draw, with the café zone offering a pleasant riverside view that makes it a comfortable spot to settle in between sightseeing. Staff are frequently praised for friendly and attentive service, and the atmosphere strikes a balance between casual and considered — nothing overly formal, but clearly looked after. Good to know: Specific opening hours are not listed online, so it is worth confirming times directly before visiting, particularly if planning an evening meal. The sheer size of the venue means it can absorb larger crowds without feeling cramped, but arriving during quieter mid-afternoon hours allows for a more relaxed experience with better views of the riverfront. Pricing sits in the mid-range, making it a practical choice for most budgets.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After De Lanna Riverfront Café & Restaurant, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
De Lanna Riverfront Café & Restaurant offers a delightful culinary experience with a diverse menu. Our order included fish, chicken, crab, and vegetables, accompanied by a comforting hot Americano and refreshing mineral water. The food is commendable, showcasing a well-balanced blend of flavors and quality ingredients. Each dish, from the seafood to the poultry and vegetables, contributes to a satisfying dining experience. One of the standout features is the picturesque view, providing a charming backdrop to the meal. The restaurant's riverside location enhances the dining ambiance, creating a serene atmosphere that complements the culinary delights. The ample seating options allow guests to choose between intimate settings or more open spaces, catering to different preferences. Conveniently located near Le Meridien Hotel Chiang Rai, the restaurant provides accessibility for both locals and visitors staying in the vicinity. Whether you seek a leisurely meal or a scenic spot for a special occasion, De Lanna Riverfront Café & Restaurant proves to be a versatile and appealing choice. A delightful blend of good food, pleasant surroundings, and accessibility makes it a noteworthy destination in Chiang Rai. 🍽️🌊☕
Accidentally ran into this Coffee n Restaurant. It's a huge open space by the river front. Can host a banquet. Chinese, Thai and Western food served here. Services staff is great. Food is tasty, the portion is large. Prices are decent, some can be cheap for the setting. The view of the river is chill. Highly recommended when you're in Chiang Rai.
We visited the restaurant on the first day of our trip… and the culinary experience was probably the best overall 😄 I personally loved the spicy condiments, very well balanced authentic Thai flavor.
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 – 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)