THE SHACK f
The Shack has built a loyal following among both locals and visiting travellers for one standout reason: its slow-cooked BBQ. The chef behind the kitchen trained in Syracuse, New York, and brings that American BBQ tradition to Chiang Rai, producing ribs that are smoked for six hours and consistently praised for their tenderness and depth of flavour. The menu also includes grilled chicken, steaks, homemade chips, and classic sides — straightforward comfort food executed with real care. The setting lives up to the name — relaxed and unpretentious, with a casual atmosphere that suits solo diners, couples, and small groups equally well. The restaurant sits slightly outside the main town centre but is considered well worth the short trip by those who make the effort. Note that the venue has two entrances: one directly facing the restaurant frontage and another accessible through the adjoining house, which can catch first-time visitors off guard. Good to know: the slow-smoked ribs require at least six hours advance notice to order, so planning ahead is essential if that is the main draw. Calling before visiting is strongly recommended, as opening hours are not listed online and the restaurant may not always be open for walk-ins. Given the limited information available online, checking locally or contacting the restaurant directly will save a wasted trip.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After THE SHACK f, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
Phew! This place has some amazing slow-cooked ribs! The chef learned his ways in Syracuse, New York. You must call 6 hours in advance to order your ribs! (The restaurant is also located facing a small canal half a block in from the main road.) Everything was wonderful. I loved the beef stew so much. The beef was incredibly tender and mouth-wateringly tasty. The pappardelle was really nice too. Great salad with crispy candies walnuts. A decent selection of beers, including a few crafts. If you don’t drink alcohol, you can get out the door for probably ~300 baht/person, which is a great deal for what you’re getting. Nice ambience, fun location, and awesome service.
The ribs are delicious. I went to pull one and the bone slid out with zero effort, very tender, and literally falls off the bone, and great bbq flavor. The rolls and potato's that came with were also incredible. We came on a Sunday night and we're the only ones in the restaurant so the food was very quick. The two of us shared a salad, side of frys and the large rib combo for around 20 US dollars.
The best BBQ ribs and steak we have ever had and we have been to the USA before. It is a bit outside of the main town but I would 100% take the time to visit this restaurant. The rib meat fell off the bone and the steak was cooked to perfection. Even the french fries were on point. Everything was also seasoned perfectly. Can't recommend enough.
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.
Also Popular in Chiang Rai
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Wat Rong Khun
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Golden Triangle
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Wat Huay Pla Kang
Temple complex featuring a 9-floor pagoda with 12 surrounding structures & a giant Buddha.
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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)