Are you a digital nomad on the hunt for a coffee adventure that transcends beyond the ordinary, an experience awakens your senses but also immerses you in local culture and scenery?
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The quest for the perfect brew takes us to the heart of Northern Thailand, where the best must-visit coffee shops in Chiang Rai await to redefine your coffee journey.
These digital nomad-friendly coffee shops provide more than a quick shot of caffeine; they serve as a starting point for exploring Thailand’s warm hospitality, artisanal craftsmanship, and local coffee culture.
Key Highlights
- Chiang Rai’s coffee culture exemplifies the region’s growing trend in specialty coffee. It creates distinctive coffee experiences by combining carefully chosen beans from worldwide and local Thai hills with creative brewing methods.
- Chiang Rai’s inventive and inclusive approach to coffee culture is demonstrated by the variety of its cafes, which range from those that serve in-house roasted beans like The Roast Chiang Rai Coffee to others with novel concepts like CAT ‘n’ A CUP Cat Cafe.
- These digital nomad-friendly cafés provide an opportunity to enjoy real Thai coffee. They showcase the labor of regional farmers and the distinctive coffee profiles of the area while offering a true taste of Northern Thailand’s best coffee.
- Several cafes are notable for their distinctive offerings, including the delicious plant-based food at Kunda Vegan Burger Cafe, the pleasant and pet-friendly ambiance of Ochasama Japanese Restaurant and Cafe, and the Scandinavian traditions of BaanChivitMai Bakery Café Restaurant.
- In addition to providing excellent coffee, these cafés act as digital nomad’s entry points to Chiang Rai’s genuine hospitality, handcrafted goods, and indigenous customs, enhancing each visit.
- Chiang Rai’s flourishing coffee culture is a compelling incentive for coffee enthusiasts to visit this northern Thai city. The art of producing coffee, passion, and community create a journey beyond simple consumption.
Best Must-Visit Coffee Shops in Chiang Rai
As we delve deeper into the thriving coffee scene of Chiang Rai, a pressing question arises – Which cafes in Chiang Rai serve the best coffee?
This is our invitation to all digital nomads to discover the distinct narratives underlying each cup and a test of one’s palate.
Chiang Rai’s coffee shops are a testament to Thailand’s emerging specialty coffee trend. They use beans meticulously picked from local Thai hills to global sources and inventive brewing techniques to bring out their best flavors.
Our extensive guide promises to take you through a carefully chosen selection of cafés where quality, atmosphere, and originality merge flawlessly to offer the ultimate coffee experience.
The most excellent coffee shops in Chiang Rai are destinations where every cup tells a tale of passion, community, and the craft of coffee manufacturing. They are more than just a places to get coffee, it is an extension of your coffee adventure that blends remote work with pleasure.
1. Abonzo Paradise
Abonzo Paradise is located in the verdant surroundings at the foot of a hill. It is a contemporary-style cafe that gained immense popularity right after its opening in the recent past.
The coffee shop has a ‘Hip’ vibe with a simple and elegant interior. One of the best things about this cafe is that it uses sustainable furnishings and fixtures made of locally sourced, inexpensive materials, some of which are recycled.
Some of the furniture is made using construction-grade iron rods and unvarnished chairs. Concrete slabs were being molded and dried to make long tables.
I have tasted countless cups of coffees in my entire, but I can definitely say Abonzo Paradise’s peach tea coffee is unique and absolutely delicious. The sweetness of the peach tea complements well the slight bitterness of the coffee beans.
57180 Chiang Rai, Moo 3, Wa Wi, Mae Suai District, Chiang Rai, Thailand
+66 91 070 7272
2. Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, Bistro & Bar
Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House is by far the best coffee shop in Chaing Rai. It is situated by the Kok River. Here, you have the option of both indoor and outdoor seating.
The beautiful colonial-style cafe reminded me so much of the old English tea houses in England. Like Bridgerton’s with more rustic vibe.
The cafe is run by a family. It serves freshly brewed coffee and some amazing, freshly baked cakes and muffins.
You can also check out some fascinating and unique antique items the family has collected over the years and placed in the cafe as classic decor.
Village No. 2, 179 Bannrongseartean Soi 3, Mueang Chiang Rai District, 57100, Thailand
+66 81 984 2925
3. The Roast Chiang Rai Coffee
The Roast Chiang Rai is famous for freshly roasted coffee, as the name literally implies. The cafe is conveniently located in the Chiang Rai center.
Due to the in-house roasting of coffee beans, the place always has a blanket of coffee aroma. It is nothing short of a coffee lover’s paradise.
Trust me, the smell is so cathartic, it sets the perfect mood for work. In addition, WiFi is free here and has excellent connectivity speed.
The menu offers a wide assortment of coffee and beans, with English descriptions. They also sell freshly roasted coffee beans, which you can take home as souvenirs.
The cafe also provides Barista courses in Thai.
124/3 Sankhongluang Rd., Rop Wiang Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
+66 88 700 0762
4. Manorom Coffee
Manorom is another beautiful riverside cafe in Chiang Rai where you can sit back and relax with a cup of coffee.
It is a premium cafe serving quality Thai and Western food.
The cafe has indoor and outdoor seating areas and a serene ambiance. There are many picturesque spots for insta-worthy photos.
The services and hospitality at Manorom Coffee are very professional and something you should treat yourself to occasionally.
The prices are slightly high, around ฿250-฿300 per plate, but considering the quality of service, it is a good bargain.
499, 2 Sanpanard Soi 2/2 Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
+66 92 373 7666
5. Kalae Cafe Nangnon Coffee
The Kalae Cafe Nangnon Coffee is conveniently located on Jetyod Road in Chiang Rai, near most of the city’s budget accommodations.
Here at the cafe, you can find many coffees and lip-smackingly tasty breakfast dishes. The vibe is very chill.
The cafe also has a variety of seating options: you can sit, lounge, or lay—whatever suits your comfort. The shop is open to the street, so it is breezy.
However, the cafe is not airconditioned, so it is best to avoid it if you prefer a more relaxed AC environment.
You should definitely try the very popular Akha food here.
1025 6 Jetyod Rd., Tambon Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
+66 87 661 1477
6. CAT ‘n’ A CUP Cat Cafe
As the name suggests, it is a unique cat-friendly cafe concept in Chiang Rai where you can enjoy your perfect brew with these feline friends.
The cafe allows the visitors to feed the cats at just 40 Baht. You can sit in the cat room for as long as you want.
Here, you get a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes, delicious cakes, and invigorating coffees.
Despite the cats loitering in the space, the cleanliness and hygiene conditions of the cafe are on point. In fact, I like their companion when I’m hanging out or answering emails, it made me feel welcome and less lonely.
596/7 Phaholyothin Rd, Tambon Wiang, City Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
+66 88 251 3706
7. Coffeenergy Chiang Rai
The Coffeenergy Cafe is run by a Thai couple and is a decent spot to sip coffee and relax.
The staff here is very enthusiastic and goes above and beyond to serve you the best they can. The service is speedy.
Their food and coffee is delicious and affordable. They also offer almond milk alternatives for vegan and vegetarian options.
The interior is modern and minimalistic. There’s seating for about 15 people and a great, clean bathroom.
845/2 Pao Khun Rd., Tambon Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
+66 86 654 9870
8. Local Coffee and Home Roasters
The Local Coffee & Home Roasters Cafe is the one cafe in Chiang Rai that you should check out.
This coffee shop is famous for its specialty and authentic Thai coffee. It also sells coffee beans from various parts of the world, and you can try its creative coffee cocktails.
For those with sweet tooth cravings, their cheesecakes and brownies are a must-try.
The decor is minimal, with a very laid-back vibe.
What’s more unique is that you can also meet the local Thai farmers who harvest the coffee beans at the cafe.
5 Moo 9 Phahonyothin Rd., San Sai Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
+66 94 695 9499
9. Melt in Your Mouth Chiang Rai
The ‘Melt in Your Mouth’ cafe is located in Tambon Rob Wiang, Chiang Rai.
It is a classic modern-style coffee shop with very nicely designed interiors. It feels like you are stepping into a fantasy novel in England.
There are several spots where you can take pictures for your social media. Its mesmerizing location by the river adds more charm.
You can find both Western and Thai cuisine here, both of which taste yum!
I actually prefer to come here during daytime because their service is much more faster. Dinner time’s okay too, but your order might take a little bit longer since the cafe tends to have larger crowd in the evening. So, just keep that in mind.
268 Village No. 21, Tambon Rob Wiang, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
+66 52 020 549
10. Ochasama Japanese Restaurant and Cafe
Oshasama is a Japanese-style restaurant and cafe located in the Ban Nong Mo area of Chiang Rai. It serves authentic Japanese cuisine, which is lip-smacking.
In my opinion, Oshasama serves the best ramen in the city (chef’s kiss). Of course, the Japanese cafe experience wouldn’t be complete without trying their matcha drinks.
The entire space is pet-friendly, so you can bring your four-legged friends along without trouble. There is ample space here so that everyone is at ease.
There are also plenty of parking spots within its vicinity. So, it’s perfect for digital nomads renting a car or bike.
366 Moo 9, Pa O Don Chai, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
+66 92 745 6442
11. Cafe Khiri
Cafe Khiri is a humble, cozy cafe in Chiang Rai famous for its croissants. It offers different varieties that you can try and also take home.
The seats are comfy, the staff is polite, and the ambiance is appealing. The food is slightly pricey, but the taste is worth it.
Apart from the croissants, you should also try their tonkatsu meal and coffee latte.
Parking is plenty outside, so bringing your car wouldn’t be a problem.
12. Parabola Chiang Rai
Parabola Chiang Rai is an excellent cafe on the road between Chiang Rai and Chiang Saen in Mae Chan District.
It has a modern interior with both indoor and outdoor seating and is very spacious.
The menu includes Thai and Western dishes. The cafe serves excellent cakes and coffee as well.
My favorite drink is the signature cold brew with salt and brown sugar. So, yummy!
Mae Chan, Mae Chan District, Chiang Rai 57110, Thailand
+66 65 809 7868
13. Polar Bakery and Patisserie
Polar Bakery and Patisserie is one of the most famous coffee and breakfast places in Chiang Rai.
Here, you can enjoy breakfast dishes all day, so you need not necessarily force yourself to wake up on a Sunday to enjoy their delicacies.
There are outdoor and indoor seating options available here. It even has a small playground to entertain the kids while you enjoy a good coffee.
The overall atmosphere of the place is very chill and relaxing, and the staff is friendly and speaks fluent English.
Don’t forget to try their boulangeries and bruschetta.
266 Moo 1 Rob Viang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
+66 87 366 9366
14. Kunda Vegan Burger Cafe
Kunda Cafe is renowned for its exceptional plant-based cuisine. It is mainly known for serving what many consider the best veggie burger in Thailand. And, I would agree to that!
Established in 2011, Kunda Cafe has earned a reputation for its unique and delicious vegan offerings, including the Kunda® vegan patty and Kunda® burger.
This mostly plant-based cafe avoids using tofu, emphasizing a home-style, daily-fresh eating experience.
For digital nomads exploring Chiang Rai in search of vegan or vegetarian options, Kunda Cafe is a must-visit destination.
However, just a heads-up, Kunda Cafe doesn’t have a WiFi. So, that’s something to consider if your planning to visit the cafe to do some remote work while having a cup of coffee.
372 Trairat Rd., Tambon Wiang, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
+66 82 886 6301
15. Awe’s Cafe
Awe’s Cafe is recognized for its welcoming atmosphere and inviting culinary menu.
In keeping with the city’s reputation for quaint and quirky cafés, it offers a unique experience and delicious food in a cozy setting.
Their Khao Soi is a must-try dish here. The serving size is very generous and costs only 70 Baht. They also serve rice meals like stir-fried chicken with basil.
Because of its proximity to the road, expect it to be less quiet than other cafes. If you can’t work with that, I suggest you just leave your laptop in your hotel and just enjoy Awe’s Cafe as it is.
1021, 4th Floor, Jetyod Rd., Tambon Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
+66 81 023 4164
16. BaanChivitMai Bakery Café Restaurant
BaanChivitMai Bakery Café Restaurant is celebrated for its unique approach to baking, drawing heavily from Scandinavian traditions.
This establishment offers a variety of breads, cakes, and other baked goods that are prepared following Scandinavian recipes, providing a distinctive flavor profile that sets it apart from other bakeries in the area.
In addition to its bakery items, BaanChivitMai serves a range of simple yet delicious foods, including coffees, teas, juices, smoothies, breakfast plates, sandwiches, pasta, burgers, and Thai dishes, all at fair prices.
The bakery is not just about food; it represents a cause. By choosing BaanChivitMai, guests and nomads can contribute to a charitable mission to educate at-risk children and youth in Northern Chaing Tai.
167 168 Prasopsook Rd., Tambon Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
+66 63 969 4611
17. Latitude 19 at Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort
Latitude 19 is located at the Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort in Thailand. It offers guests a serene and stylish environment that blends modern design with the traditional Lanna aesthetic.
It is an ideal relaxation spot where digital nomads can enjoy specialty coffees alongside the resort’s signature Le Scoop program.
The lounge bar is celebrated for its artfully crafted cocktails, uplifting coffee creations, curated wines, and light fare, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks.
Its comfortable and scenic setting makes it a must-visit for resort guests and nomads to Chiang Rai looking for a premium lounge experience.
Whether starting your day with a specialty coffee, enjoying a leisurely lunch, or unwinding with a cocktail as the sun sets, Latitude 19 at Le Méridien offers a refined atmosphere and quality offerings that cater to discerning tastes.
221 / 2 Moo 20 Kwaewai Road, Tambon Robwieng, Amphur Muang, 57000, Thailand
+66 53 603 333
https://www.myclubmarriott.com/hotel/restaurantdetail/en/latitude-19
18. Connect Cafe
Connect Cafe in Chiang Rai is a versatile eatery catering to various dietary preferences, including a substantial selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes.
The staff at Connect Cafe are well-informed about vegan requirements, ensuring that diners with specific dietary needs can find something delicious and suitable to eat.
Located opposite the old bus station in Chiang Rai, Connect Cafe is known for its American breakfast options. It boasts a welcoming atmosphere that’s conducive to both dining and socializing.
The cafe’s ambiance is very comfortable, making it an ideal spot for digital nomads and locals to connect, share a meal, or enjoy a smoothie, like a pineapple and passion fruit smoothie.
The cafe’s cozy atmosphere makes it a great place for visitors and residents to meet, have a meal, or sip on a smoothie, such as the passion fruit and pineapple smoothie.
170 171 Prasopsook Rd., Tambon Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
+66 53 754 181
19. Bechegu Coffee Roaster
Bechegu Coffee Roaster has garnered attention and appreciation from coffee enthusiasts for its premium coffee products and bakery items.
The cafe offers roasted coffee beans, fresh coffee, and a selection of bakery goods. It has become a must-visit destination for nomads seeking high-quality coffee in Chiang Rai.
Its atmosphere and product range caters to coffee purists and those looking to enjoy a comfortable spot with delicious beverages and treats.
For anyone passionate about coffee or looking for a cozy place to relax and enjoy a cup, Bechegu Coffee Roaster offers an inviting environment and a selection that promises to satisfy diverse tastes and preferences.
Rop Wiang Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
+66 91 854 6025
20. The Wanderer Coffee House
The Wanderer is a hidden coffee spot recognized not only for its cozy ambiance, which is a delightful surprise for those who find it tucked away in a small alley, but also for its culinary offerings.
Despite being considered quite pricey, the experience is well worth the cost. Delicious cakes and other treats will surely satisfy your sweet cravings. My constant orders here at the smoked chickens and cheese eggs benedict croissant paired with a hot cup of coffee latte.
This cafe represents more than just a dining venue; it’s a destination for those seeking to merge the enjoyment of good food and beverages with the pleasure of being surrounded by nature.
The best thing about The Wanderer Cafe is that they are halal-friendly. So, I highly recommend this shop to my fellow nomads with Islamic faith.
537/1 Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai, 57100, Thailand
+66 63 932 3956
Final Thoughts: Drinking Coffee in Chiang Rai
Exploring Chiang Rai‘s thriving coffee culture reveals a delightful array of must-visit coffee shops, which testify to the city’s growing reputation as a coffee lover’s paradise.
Whether you’re a digital nomad looking for a tranquil spot to unwind by the Kok River or eager to explore the hip and sustainable interiors of the newest additions to the coffee scene, Chiang Rai’s top coffee destinations provide an inviting blend of flavors, views, and experiences that are not to be missed.
Which cafes in Chiang Rai serve the best coffee?
Diving deeper into the heart of Chiang Rai’s coffee culture, one can’t help but marvel at its cafes’ dedication to quality and creativity.
Places like The Roast Chiang Rai Coffee, with their in-house roasting, ensure that every cup carries the full-bodied aroma and rich taste of freshly roasted beans.
Meanwhile, Local Coffee and Home Roasters offer a chance to savor authentic Thai coffee, highlighting the hard work of the local farmers and the region’s unique coffee profiles.
In the end, i’s not just about the beverage; it’s about the experience — from enjoying a slice of Scandinavian baking tradition at BaanChivitMai Bakery Café Restaurant to immersing in the cat-friendly environment of CAT ‘n’ A CUP Cat Cafe.
Chiang Rai’s best coffee shops are every digital nomad’s haven for great coffee and work-friendly ambiance.
FAQ
Chiang Rai’s verdant landscapes and nearby coffee fields influence its distinctive coffee culture. Many cafes in the area serve locally produced, freshly brewed coffee, giving guests an authentic experience of Northern Thailand’s superior coffee.
Of course! Coffee manufactured from locally sourced, frequently organic beans is served at establishments like The Roast Chiang Rai Coffee, Local Coffee, and Home Roasters, which take pride in their direct support of local farmers and communities.
Try the Thai coffee blends made locally and offered in most cafés. It’s also worth sampling some specialty drinks, like Parabola Chiang Rai’s famous cold brew with salt and brown sugar.
Indeed, Kunda Vegan Burger Cafe serves plant-based food and coffee to satisfy the needs of vegan and vegetarian patrons.
The cost varies according to the cafe. Manorom Coffee, for example, serves food that costs between ฿250 and ฿300 Baht per plate. Simultaneously, Awe’s Cafe serves hearty portions of Khao Soi for just 70 Baht. Most cafes offer a range of prices, so everyone may take advantage of Chiang Rai’s coffee scene.
