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@Waterside Chiangrai
Restaurants & Food
Chiang Rai

@Waterside Chiangrai

4.2(489 reviews)$$$$

Situated on the banks of the Kok River opposite Hat Chiang Rai (Chiang Rai Beach), this evening dining spot has relocated to a new riverside position that makes strong use of its waterfront setting. The elevated, open-air layout captures views across the water, and the venue draws a loyal crowd of both locals and visitors looking for a more relaxed alternative to city centre dining. The atmosphere is a notable draw — live music plays regularly, and the combination of riverside breezes, ambient lighting after dark, and a spacious layout gives the place a convivial, unhurried feel. The menu centres on Thai cuisine with a northern Thai lean; fried fish prepared northern style comes up frequently among visitor highlights, and the kitchen generally handles fresh fish dishes well. Service is consistently noted as friendly and attentive. Pricing sits at a mid-range level, making it a reasonable option for a full dinner with drinks. Good to know: The restaurant opens at 5 PM every day of the week and stays open until midnight, making it exclusively an evening venue. The location in the Mae Yao area places it a short distance from the city centre, so travellers without their own transport should arrange a ride in advance. Arriving closer to opening time on weekends is advisable, as the combination of live music and a pleasant riverside setting tends to draw a crowd as the evening progresses.

Experience hints

Mid-range

Pair your visit. After @Waterside Chiangrai, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.

Visitor Reviews

A terrific spot on the banks of the Kok River in Chang Rai. Live music. A big space, elevated to take advantage of the views. Looking a romantic spot; gotcha covered. Reasonably priced. 6 dishes & 4 large bottles of Sinah; 1100 Baht.

Good atmosphere, live music, nice ladies staff! Food is ok. Delicious fish 🐠

Due to construction activities, by the municipality, on the old location, @Waterside was forced to move. This happened a few months ago. The new location, opposite Hat Chiang Rai (Chiang Rai Beach) is, for me, much better. Okay, a little bit out of town, but the atmosphere is amazing. The life music is okay, although I prefer a little more modern music. The quality of the food is good and the service of the staff is nothing to complain about. I suggest only that they add some English in the menu card. That makes ordering easier. Moreover, absolutely recommendable.

Location Info

314 ม5, Tambon Mae Yao, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand+66 92 641 6926m.facebook.com/WatersideChiangrai/
Opening Hours
Monday17:00-00:00
Tuesday17:00-00:00
Wednesday17:00-00:00
Thursday17:00-00:00
Friday17:00-00:00
Saturday17:00-00:00
Sunday17:00-00:00

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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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

Moderate

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)