Northern Soul Riverside BBQ
Tucked along the riverside in the laid-back northern Thai town of Pai, Northern Soul Riverside BBQ offers a casual dining experience that pairs open-air ambience with the smoky appeal of barbecue cooking. The setting takes full advantage of Pai's natural surroundings, making it a natural stop for travellers exploring the Mae Hong Son region who want a meal that feels as unhurried as the town itself. Guests can expect a relaxed atmosphere typical of Pai's independent dining scene, with the riverside location adding a sense of calm that suits the area's slow-travel character. The restaurant is affiliated with Reconnect Lodge, suggesting a connection to the broader retreat and accommodation experience in the area, and the consistently strong visitor ratings point to a dining option that delivers reliably on both food and setting. On a practical note, Northern Soul Riverside BBQ is open every day of the week from 07:30 to 16:00, meaning it covers breakfast and lunch but does not serve dinner. Visitors planning an evening meal will need to look elsewhere. Those staying nearby or passing through during the day will find it a convenient and well-regarded stop. As Pai can be busy during the high season between November and February, arriving earlier in the day is advisable to secure a good spot by the water.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Northern Soul Riverside BBQ, round out your day in Pai with contrasting stops nearby.
Location Info
173, Tambon Mae Hi, Amphoe Pai, Chang Wat Mae Hong Son 58130, Thailand+66 92 280 0518reconnectlodge.com/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 Pai

Pai Canyon
Serene, scenic canyon with narrow, ledgy hiking trails that offer sweeping valley views.
Elephant Nature Park
Elephant rescue & rehabilitation center with volunteer opportunities, jungle tours & rafting.

Yun Lai Viewpoint
Reached by car or scooter, this hilltop village complex offers tea service & panoramic valley views.
Santichon Village
Pony rides & a rustic Ferris wheel at a Chinese village, plus shops for artisanal souvenirs.
Similar Restaurants & Food Across Thailand
Aonchorn Thai restaurant ออนชอน ราชดำเนิน
Authentic Thai street food restaurant in Phra Nakhon serving flavoursome dishes at remarkably affordable prices.

Kodtalay The Riverfront Seafood Buffet
A riverside seafood buffet in Sathorn serving fresh catches and Thai dishes daily from 2 PM.
Central Pattaya
A large, well-organised shopping mall in central Pattaya with extensive dining, a food court, and retail options.
The Village Farm To Café
A scenic farm-to-table café on Highway 323 in Kanchanaburi, serving fresh, locally-sourced food in a spacious, village-style setting.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (hot & hazy)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
12°C – 32°C(54°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January
Getting there
Minivan from Chiang Mai (3 hrs, ~762 curves — take motion sickness tablets). Small airport for charter flights only.
Getting around
- •Motorbike rental (essential — ฿150/day)
- •Bicycle rental for town
- •Walking in the town centre