The Best Espressos in Town ☕

As an acknowledged coffee addict, I’ve basically written this guide to justify the amount of time I’ve spent hunting down cafes and tasting coffees. 

Writing this list involved a lot of sleepless nights. Not because I have any problem laying down my judgement – I’m just telling it like it is – but literally, I’ve had so much coffee to drink.

Chiang Mai’s espresso game is strong thanks to a perfect storm of passionate baristas, locally-sourced beans, and a thriving cafe culture. I’ve sipped, slurped, and occasionally spilled my way through them all and here are the places worth visiting if you’re a coffee purist. 

These are absolute best espressos in Chiang Mai.

The lattes might be good, they might suck, I don’t care. This list is about espressos.

Akha Ama Phrasingh

Excellent espresso in a stylish two-level roastery near Wat Phra Singh

  • Daily, 8:00am-5:30pm

Akha Ama Phrasingh is a spacious two-level coffee roastery in Chiang Mai’s old city. The building’s architecture is cool, featuring a nifty rounded staircase and an industrial-meets-local vibe. It’s a prime spot for coffee nerds and tourists.

The espresso here is very very good, and the baristas know their stuff. They offer a bunch of sugary signature drinks if that’s your thing. Their soda lemon drink hits the right balance of sour and sweet. For those who prefer milk-based options, lattes and flat whites are available with various milk choices.

While the coffee game is strong, food options are limited. There’s a small selection of desserts, croissants and whatever. Don’t come hungry. However, they do have plenty of beans and coffee paraphernalia for sale.

The cafe is work-friendly with fast Wi-Fi, but there aren’t any power outlets. Charge up before you arrive if you plan on camping out. The space is air-conditioned, sometimes excessively so, so grab a spot near the windows if you tend to run cold.

Location-wise, it’s perfect for tourists exploring the old city, being within walking distance of Wat Phra Singh. However, parking can be a nightmare, so consider alternative transport or just walk here from a less-busy area.

Pros:

  • Excellent espresso and creative coffee drinks
  • Impressive architecture and Instagram-worthy interior
  • Fast Wi-Fi
  • Prime location for tourists

Cons:

  • No power outlets
  • Limited food options
  • Parking difficulties
  • Blasting top 40s music (it’s unforgivable)

Despite its flaws, Akha Ama Phrasingh is worth a visit for serious coffee lovers and those seeking a cool workspace. Just remember to bring headphones if you’re not a fan of loud pop music.

General Coffee

Great coffee and cakes nearish Nimman

  • Daily, 07:30 - 19:00

General Coffee is a cool spot in Chiang Mai, run by the same folks behind GRAPH cafes. It’s not a destination cafe, but it’s a solid choice if you’re in the area and need a break from the heat.

The interior is a mix of old-school timber and burgundy velvet seating, giving it a vintage vibe. It’s clean and air-conditioned, making it a comfortable retreat from the bustling streets. The modern touches and minimalist design create an Instagram-worthy backdrop for your coffee shots.

Coffee-wise, they’ve got you covered. Everything they do is on point and their espresso is balanced and smooth.

Don’t skip the pastries. The blueberry cheesecake square is a hit, and they’ve got other tempting desserts on display. If you’re hungry, they serve breakfast and lunch options too but it’s mostly bread-y crap.

It’s a work-friendly space with free Wi-Fi and plenty of plugs. Just bring headphones as it can get noisy. The crowd is mostly young locals and Thai tourists, creating a lively atmosphere.

Pros:

  • Comfortable, air-conditioned space
  • Tasty pastries and desserts
  • Work-friendly with Wi-Fi and plugs
  • Interesting coffee concoctions like “Lava” and “Sunrise”

Cons:

  • Can get noisy
  • Small food menu

General Coffee is part of Chiang Mai’s thriving cafe scene. It’s a solid option for a quick caffeine fix, a sweet treat, or a few hours of work.

GRAPH Ground

Innovative coffee haven in Chiang Mai's trendiest locale

  • Daily, 09:00 - 17:00

GRAPH’s tucked away in One Nimman – that big mall with the pretty European plaza look – and these guys know their coffee.

They roast their own beans and get creative with drinks. Try the Breaking Brown if you want your mind blown – it’s like an espresso and an avocado had a delicious baby. Or go for the MAGMA if you’re feeling adventurous. I highly recommend this place if you’re a coffee lover. It’s a great spot to relax and try something new.

The vibe? Think low-light industrial meets whiskey bar. A nice escape from One Nimman’s try-hard brightness.

Pros:

  • Amazing coffee with creative drink options
  • Convenient location in Nimman
  • Good for working – you can sit for a while

Cons:

  • Very dark interior, can be hard to see
  • Concrete gets damp during rainy season
  • Seating is too close together

Maled Coffee Roasters : โรงคั่วเมล็ด

Quick coffee heaven with top-notch espresso, but needs a makeover

  • Daily 7:00 - 17:00

This is one of my favorite cafes for when I am in a hurry and I just want a quick espresso. There are several other cafes on the same street but none comes close to Maled in terms of quality. They roast their beans in-house and you can tell that they care about quality. The interior could use some renovation as it’s pretty sparse at the moment and the furniture is cheap.

There are many plugs for working and it’s not unpleasant to spend an hour or two here. Easy 5/5 if they renovate the interior.

If you want to treat yourself, get the banoffee cake: The best in town. But you have to go before 1 pm otherwise they sell out!

Pros:

  • Amazing espresso and latte
  • Wide variety of beans (mostly light roast)
  • Conveniently located off Suthep
  • Easy parking
  • Lots of good shops and restos nearby

Cons:

  • Boring interior
  • No food and only a couple cakes

Nearby:

My routine is to come to Maled for an espresso (or two) and then cross the street to under-the-radar Mainchini for a simple, delicious, protein-rich salmon fillet on rice.

Ristr8to Original

Trendy third-wave coffee spot in Nimman

  • Daily, 7:30 - 18:30

If you’re looking for a great coffee place in Chiang Mai, Ristr8 is the place to go. The atmosphere is relaxed, friendly, and social, the drinks are delicious, and the staff is always willing to explain various specialty drinks. Most people love the espressos here, but I don’t, so I usually indulge in one of their sweet signature drinks. I recently enjoyed their coconut mocha; it was just the right mix of sweet and creamy.

I find their espressos too fruity and sour but I know this is the current trend in third-wave coffee.

This is a place to experience while exploring Nimman. Stop in and enjoy some third-wave coffee made by professional Baristas.

Don’t come here with your laptop as there is no a/c and it’s a small space anyway. Head across the street to LOT cafe if you need to sit with your laptop for a couple of hours.

This is Nimman so good luck finding parking.

 

Sensation Coffee Roasters

Coffee connoisseur's paradise with expert owner

  • Daily, 9:30 - 17:30

This place is a must-visit for coffee nerds.

The setting is great and the building is modern and beautiful. The coffee is top-notch – I usually get a cappuccino and pair it with one of their homemade chocolate mousse cakes. The owner is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the coffee and gave a thorough explanation of all the V60 coffee options and their origins. He roasts his beans in-house as well.

The final brew was superb and the matcha was excellent too. The outdoor seating area in the back is peaceful and lovely. The indoor seating area is great for chilling during the day. The cakes are delicious and the atmosphere is beautiful and simple. All in al, it’s worth a visit if you’re in the area.

Pros:

  • Best pour-over in Chiang Mai
  • A small selection of amazing home-made desserts
  • Great parking
  • The beautiful modern industrial aesthetic

Cons

  • The small interior is not ideal for working
  • No food, but not a strong negative as there is a great Issan-style resto next door

Located in trendy Pong Noi (take a walk to nearby Baan Kang Wat)

 

Sukhum Caffe’ Sanpatong

High-quality coffee and cakes in a charming outdoor setting

  • Daily, 7:00-5:00

Stumbled across this charming cafe driving back from a nearby waterpark. It’d fit right in around Nimman or Suan Dok in terms of quality and design. Baristas are well-trained and take coffee-making seriously. Our three-year-old went wild for the cake display but was happy with a fresh-squeezed orange juice.

My wife called it the best lemon tart she’s had in Thailand. That’s saying something.

There’s a small bridge over a koi pond and a naturally shaded outdoor area. They roast their own beans – you can see their modern roaster around the side.

The coffee? Got my usual double espresso. So good I had to get a second.

I wouldn’t recommend a day-trip here if you live in town. While it’s charming, it needs something extra to justify the drive. But if you’re passing nearby, definitely stop in.

Pros:

  • Amazing coffee and cakes
  • Well-trained baristas, high-end equipment
  • Outdoor seating with natural shade
  • Simple but tasteful decoration
  • Extension cords available
  • Separate room for working/studying

Cons:

  • Hard to get to without a car
  • Loud when busy
  • Seating not great for long work periods
  • ‘Food’ menu is sugary crap

The Brewing House by Rue Thai (ฤไท)

Coffee aficionado's hidden gem in Mae Rim

  • Daily, 7:30 - 16:00

This place is for coffee nerds.

I would recommend a visit to this amazing coffee house if you’re in Mae Rim. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the staff are knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate. The coffee is delicious and the house-roasted beans are of the highest quality.

The barista takes the time to explain the process of each coffee, and the price is very reasonable. The homemade bakery items are also a nice touch.

My friend and I tried two different pour-overs. Both were full of flavor and so good that I bought a bag of beans.

You could work here as there are loads of tables and outlets.

Culinary Cafes: Mmmm 😋

More than just God-pulls and latte art, I also want really good food when exploring Chiang Mai’s cafes. Taking Lily or the family out to eat in new cafes is one of my favorite things to do, and I don’t think we’ll ever get bored of this in Chiang Mai.

Some cafes only serve snacks and cakes, but plenty offer full menus – and in portions large enough you can actually get full too.

I’m uncompromising on my standards for coffee so I don’t include anything here where the food is good but I had to spit the coffee out. (I’m kidding that would be horrifyingly rude, especially in Thai culture, you get my meaning though.)

Even with that high bar, there’s cuisine of all varieties and on offer in Chiang Mai. In curating this list, I’ve indulged in generous stacks of pancakes, savored inventive avocado toasts, and experienced fusion dishes that shocked my taste buds, for better and for worse. 

The standouts for best cafe for dining are here for your perusal.

Bella Goose Cafe on the Pond

Southern comfort meets pond-side dining in Chiang Mai

  • Daily, 7:00 - 16:00

Named after the geese living in the adjacent pond, this Bella Goose cafe is a family-friendly spot. The food is Southern-USA style and very delicious. Portion sizes are generous – you might get away with sharing one dish between two people. My go-to is the ‘Tennessee breakfast’, which I’ve never managed to finish in one sitting.

Coffee-wise, there’s a v60 station for pour-overs, but the baristas are hit or miss. A latte is your best bet here. They also do online sales now with 1-day delivery, which is great news for coffee lovers.

My absolute favorite beans for making espresso at home are the Bold Blend—seriously, it’s a game-changer for that perfect shot. You can grab them here

For laptop work, charge before coming as plugs are scarce. During off-peak hours, you can usually find a table and work for a couple of hours without issue. Staff is friendly.

Plenty of convenient parking available. Great desserts on offer. Not much to do in the immediate area.

Pros:

  • Delicious Southern brunch
  • Lots of light and a nice view
  • Great desserts
  • Ample parking
  • Playroom if you come with your family

Cons:

  • Limited plugs
  • Gets busy

Butter & Neighbor

Versatile eatery with stellar steaks and sweets

  • Daily, 10:00 - 21:00

Great food and desserts. Emphasis on steak.

Decent coffee. Slow wifi. Big parking lot. Turns into a restaurant at night.

Can’t get a table at nearby Transit #8? Come here instead, and stay for dinner.

Skugga Estate – One Nimman Branch

Upscale local bean cafe with farm connection

  • Dailym 9:30 - 22:00

Like a high-end Starbucks using locally grown beans and cacao. Don’t expect an epic espresso pull and don’t plan to sit here all day with your laptop. Expect delicious sweet drinks, happy and well-trained staff, and tapas in the afternoon.

This café is a satellite business to the more impressive countryside farm where they grow everything from cacao to avocados. There is also a beautiful collection of restored antique vehicles which is worth the trip alone.

The Larder Cafe & Bar

Popular brunch hotspot with gourmet open-face sandwiches

  • Daily, 8:00 - 15:30

My go-to brunch spot in Chiang Mai never disappoints. Despite the usual queue, it’s always worth the wait.

The Aussie-style brunch menu consistently impresses with its top-notch ingredients and beautiful presentation. I love the warm, friendly staff and the welcoming atmosphere. While it’s pricier than some places, the quality justifies every baht. It’s my favorite place to catch up with friends but not somewhere I’d ever go to work.

Pro tip: parking in nearby Nimman can be tricky.

I recommend the smoked-salmon open-face sandwich with a glass of fresh squeezed orange juice. Their coffee is decent, but if you really want a great espresso, better go to ALL BLACK COFFEE next door.

The MOST Instagrammable Cafes 😍

The honest truth is that most tourist hotspots are trash. They’re only around because they’re in a good location and an endless string of people who don’t know any better keep them in business.

When I first moved here, I assumed that would be the case for a lot of these Instagram hotspots in Chiang Mai.

I was wrong.

Not only was I wrong, but just the sheer prettiness and the effort that cafe owners put into designing their businesses made me want to take more photos and help them show off.

Whether you’re already an Instagram influencer type or you’d prefer to silently judge these people, you will be blown away by these cafes.

Just do me a favor if you’re one of those photos people, don’t let your drink get cold. By all means take your pictures, but treat your coffee with respect. The baristas in this town deserve that.

Without further ado, Chiang Mai’s most photogenic and ‘grammable cafes.

Cafe Arte

Romantic Spanish-inspired coffee oasis in Jed Yod

  • Daily, 09:00 - 17:00

Incredible hidden gem in the Jed Yod area. This sprawling cafe features many rooms, plazas, courtyards and gardens. Just look at their Instagram! The vibe is maybe Spanish missionary or something? It’s romantic as heck and they take coffee seriously as well. A must-visit on your tour of Best Coffee Shops in Chiang Mai.

CRATE Cafe

My canal-side retreat with style and substance

  • Daily, 09:00 - 18:00

This place is a gem in our old neighborhood near Wat Umong. The food, desserts, and coffee are all solid, but the real star here is the design. Think natural materials and minimalism that actually works, not the try-hard kind.

The garden is the showstopper – in the backyard is a Japanese-style rock garden complemented by great landscaping. Fair warning: if you bring kids, they’ll want to play in the pond. My daughter Fiona always tries to, but the staff are cool about it.

They’ve got a decent breakfast and lunch menu, plus a small but tasty dessert selection. Recently, they’ve expanded the interior and started slinging wood-fired pizzas in the evenings. One thing I respect about good Thai businesses is how they are always upping their game.

I’ve coworked here a few times. There are plenty of indoor and outdoor seating zones to choose from, but the chairs are more about looks than comfort.

Come for the Instagram-worthy shots, stay for the espresso and brownie combo.

Pros:

  • Great design with natural materials
  • Japanese-style rock garden in the backyard
  • Solid food, desserts, and coffee
  • Multiple seating areas, indoor and out

Cons:

  • Chairs aren’t great for long work sessions
  • Can get busy

Fernpresso at Lake

Fernpresso at Lake: My ultimate Chiang Mai cafe

  • Daily, 7:30 - 18:30

One of the best Cafes in town.

The food, the coffee, and the vibe are all top-notch. Plus there is a good chance that when you go here you will be going to a part of Chiang Mai you haven’t visited before (the Chiang Mai University campus). Take your dog and/or kids and take advantage of the massive lawn and gardens.

The Baristas know their craft as well. One of them, Khun Khit, is an award-winning latte artist who can create different animals in your latte if you ask nicely.

I recommend the orange layer cake with a shot of espresso. Drink slowly and admire the views.

You can work here. There is a separate room with a/c and plugs.

Pros:

  • Great menu of food, coffee, and desserts
  • Amazing view
  • Great place to walk or jog or take your pet
  • Friendly staff

Cons:

  • It can get BUSY on the weekends
  • Higher prices

Overall, Fernpresso at Lake is one of the top cafes in town and is a MUST visit.

 

Fleur Cafe & Eatery

Garden paradise with Instagrammable spots and delicious eats

  • Open daily, 09:00-18:00

Incredible sprawling compound consisting of multiple koi ponds and European-style flower gardens, secluded eating areas, and ton of spots perfectly staged for a photo-op.

Don’t come for the coffee, and don’t plan to get a lot of work done.

Come for the location, the food, and the nearby attractions. We’ve visited with friends and enjoyed both the Thai and Western meal options. While the espresso was a disappointment, their non-coffee drinks and desserts were all amazing.

This place is worth the trip out from the city. Afterward, you can head into the Mae Rim hills for an ATV adventure, visit the shooting range, check out Tiger Kingdom or explore a Mae Rim resort.

Pros:

  • Incredible food
  • Hand-crafted desserts
  • Amazing, sprawling, super Instagrammable compound
  • Easy parking

Cons:

  • Mediocre coffee
  • Expensive

Fringe.th Cafe and Restaurant

Trendy cafe with great coffee and unique decor for remote workers

  • Daily, 08:30-24:00

Fringe.th Cafe and Restaurant is a multi-faceted spot in a trendy part of Chiang Mai. It’s a stone’s throw from the Ping River, making it a convenient stop during a day out.

The interior is a mishmash of styles – think dozens of chair types, hipster boho art, and various seating areas. It’s like someone raided a furniture warehouse and an art gallery, then threw it all together. The result? A space that’s both eclectic and comfortable. Many cafes have tried to be this eclectic and FAILED. But Fringe pulls it off, which is really something.

The coffee here is solid. They take their brew seriously, a relief given the Instagram-bait atmosphere. Food-wise, the menu covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The eggs Benedict gets a thumbs up.

As day turns to night, Fringe.th morphs into a bar with cocktails and occasional live music. It’s trying to be all things to all people, which sometimes works and sometimes doesn’t.

Remote workers, rejoice – there are plenty of plugs and free Wi-Fi. But be prepared to share space with Instagrammers posing with their over-the-top, possibly ‘trashy’ desserts.

Pros:

  • Cool, diverse seating options, very eclectic interior decoration
  • Good coffee and food
  • Work-friendly with lots of plugs
  • It transforms into a bar at night

Cons:

  • Desserts are trying too hard to be Instagram-worthy
  • Top 40s music is a mood-killer
  • The price reflects the location and instagrammableness of the place

If you’re after a place that’s part cafe, part workspace, part bar, and part Instagram studio, Fringe.th fits the bill. Just don’t expect a quiet, focused atmosphere – it’s more of a see-and-be-seen spot with decent coffee on the side.

GRAPH Contemporary

  • Daily, 9:00 - 17:00

Graph Contemporary is definitely a place to check out if you’re looking for a unique café experience. The café has a great atmosphere, with spacious seating, friendly staff and delicious coffee and desserts. Plus, the location is in Charoen Mueng, which is Old City with lots of interesting architecture.

Like all GRAPH locations, the food and coffee are on point. The espresso is always creamy and full of flavor.

Bring your laptop and say awhile, there is an abundance of plugs and seating.

Highly recommended!

Much Room Cafe

Lush outdoor oasis with tasty food and Instagram-worthy spots

  • Daily daily, 10:00 - 18:00

Much Room Cafe is a jungle oasis tucked away from the city buzz. The massive outdoor seating area is shaded by towering Lanna trees, complete with large fans to keep you cool. Inside, you’ll find air-conditioned comfort, but good luck snagging a seat during lunch rush.

The food here is solid. Their chicken tikka masala comes with perfectly crisp naan bread. The dessert menu is huge: I love carrot cake and theirs is a 7/10. Don’t expect much from the espresso though; despite having a quality machine, they pull sour shots.

It’s a visual feast, perfect for the ‘gram. The rooftop boasts large murals overlooking a waterfall, and there’s a koi pond to boot. Bring your dog for a stroll and let the kids run wild in the grassy areas.

Pros:

  • Huge, shaded outdoor area
  • Easy parking
  • Impressive rooftop views
  • Decent food, especially the chicken tikka masala
  • Pet and kid-friendly
  • Instagrammable spots galore

Cons:

  • Mediocre coffee
  • Limited indoor seating during peak hours
  • Not ideal for long work sessions (few plugs, busy atmosphere)
  • Prices match the ambiance and food quality

Much Room Cafe is more of a destination than a quick coffee stop. It’s worth planning your day around, especially if you’re into lush scenery and tasty grub.

They’ve got a massive conference room for events, but you have to book in advance. The vibe is more “take photos and chill” than “bust out the laptop”. If you must work, charge up beforehand and maybe snag an outdoor spot to be considerate.

PLUTO

  • Daily, 8:00-21:00

Wow.

Pluto is a must visit. It’s one of those cafes where you can’t help wondering to yourself how the heck do they make money? How are they going to get their investment back? The architecture alone must have cost a fortune.

But that’s the Chiang Mai coffee scene.

I wont list out all of the qualities of this cafe. Just go visit it for yourself. Come hungry because the menu is large and very tasty. Don’t bring your laptop as their are no plugs and the internet feels like dial-up. Come for the vibe, the food, the coffee, not to work.

The Baristro Asian Style

Chiang Mai's uncontested cafe crown jewel

  • Daily, 8:00 - 18:00

Probably the best overall café in Chiang Mai. Yeah, I said it.

Look, I’ve been to more cafes than I care to admit, and this place just nails it. Coffee, desserts, architecture, location – it’s like they’re showing off.

The slow matcha and coffee bar is ridiculous. They’ve got this massive slab of granite that probably cost more than my car. It’s not just for show either – the drinks they serve up are top-notch.

Step outside and you’re in a Japanese zen garden. It’s so tranquil and green, you’d never guess you’re a stone’s throw from CMU campus. Prime location, minimal noise. Win-win.

They charge an entrance fee, but don’t sweat it. It applies to your order. It’s just their way of saying “No moochers, please.”

Parking’s a breeze. They’ve got plenty on-site, which in this part of town is like finding a unicorn.

There’s a separate glass-fronted building for coworking, which is great in theory. But here’s the catch – this place is so good, you’ve got to share it with half of Chiang Mai and the occasional busload of tourists.

Pros:

  • Top-tier coffee and desserts
  • Stunning design and zen garden
  • Plenty of parking
  • Prime location near city center
  • Dedicated coworking space

Cons:

  • Gets crowded fast, especially with tourists
  • Entrance fee (though it applies to your order)

Bottom line: The Baristro Asian Style is worth checking out. Just be prepared to share your slice of paradise.

The Baristro Coffee Roaster

  • Daily daily, 08:00 - 18:00

Baristro’s latest offering is everything I have come to expect from this Chiang Mai cafe chain: amazing coffee, beautiful decoration, well-trained baristas, and a vibe that says “Stay a while”.

Baristro coffee roaster is, as the name suggests, the roastery for the entire Baristro chain. The building is modern minimalist and the location is beautifully located on the Ping River.

The vibe is all about sitting in lawn chairs, overlooking the river, and soaking up the outdoors. There is an inside of course but it’s very small compared to their other locations.

Speaking of their other locations, a short walk down Patan Road brings you to Baristro x Ping River which is the older and much larger of the Baristro locations in this area. It’s only a 5 minute walk so check out both locations.

There is limited parking.

Inside there are loads of plugs and tables so you can get some work done.

Pros:

  • Beautiful view
  • Great coffee
  • A good place to work (maybe not during peak hours)
  • Cool aesthetic, less boho than their other locations

Cons:

  • Parking is not great
  • No food and only some flour-based desserts

The Baristro x Ping River

  • Daily, 8:00 - 18:00

I absolutely love Baristro cafe at Ping River. The atmosphere is amazing and the coffee is delicious. The view is beautiful and there’s plenty of outdoor seating. The entire area is photogenic. The coffee is very well made and they have a wide variety of beans to choose from. The pastries and desserts are also great. It’s definitely my second favourite cafe after Baristro Asian style.

Thingamajiggy Coffee Roaster

  • Daily, 8:00–15:00

I recently stumbled upon this charming little spot in the middle of a rice field, with a stunning view of Doi Suthep in the background. It’s a cozy café with a nice little house tucked away in the corner. You’d never know it was there if you weren’t looking for it.

The husband and wife team obviously take a lot of pride in their business.

The coffee here is fantastic and the shop owner is super friendly. I had a great time sitting outside and taking in the gorgeous scenery. The architecture of the café is also really beautiful and gives the atmosphere a special touch. Definitely stop by on your next trip to Pai.

Transit #8 by Baristro

Hidden multi-themed oasis: Where every room tells a different story

  • Daily, 8:00 - 18:00

A true hidden gem. This cafe is not far but it’s out-of-the-way. You would never find it by just walking around, but it’s only a 5-minute drive from the Suthep/Canal Rd. intersection.

This spacious cafe spans 2 floors and includes several themed rooms. From the slow-bar room with a live poplar tree to the Japanese zen garden tea room to the bright sun room, and finally, a room that is decorated like an old-fashioned passenger train car. Every room is both minimalist and packed with good aesthetic choices. The lighting is soft and many-sourced.

There are plugs throughout and you feel welcome to sit and work for hours.

My first time here I had an espresso and the dark beer cake, my friend had the latte. Everything was top-notch, which is typical for Baristro cafes. The espresso was creamy and surprisingly smooth for a dark-roasted bean. The dessert menu is expansive. They don’t have a food menu but you can order from the nearby roti shop and they will deliver to your table.

The only two issues I have with The Barisotel are the music and the WiFi. The music is top 40’s and a little loud, so bring headphones. The internet is fast enough but still slow compared to most cafes.

There is limited parking on-site but you can just park around the block.

Nearby are several other cafes and restaurants worth visiting. Check out butter & neighbor for protein-rich meals, cofreze cafe for great coffee and a sun-drenched interior, and Kanvela for made-in-Thailand chocolate and sweets.

 

Top Spots for Remote Work and Focus 💻

Chiang Mai’s cafe scene is a digital nomad’s dream. Unlike most places where camping out for hours is frowned upon, here it’s practically expected. I’m not sure why that is, but Lily says it’s because university students in Nimman were part of the inception of Chiang Mai’s cafe culture.

Whatever the reason, we’ve got it good. Still, not all cafes are created equal when it comes to getting shit done. Sure, fast Wi-Fi is everywhere, but there’s more boxes to tick by my standards.

We’re talking power outlets galore, chairs that won’t cripple you after an hour, and noise levels (and music) that won’t drive you to madness. Oh, and food that won’t give you brain fog. I love cakes as much as the next person, but gluten is not good for my productivity.

I’ll admit there are some places with coffee that is truly bad, but I’m not above ordering tea, cakes or a smoothie to justify the space I take up while coworking. That’s not the norm though.

Honestly, I almost don’t want to share this list because a small part of me selfishly doesn’t want my favorite places to get too busy, but it’s more important to support great businesses. Plus I’m sure this is the local advice most of you guys are here for.

Beam&Col. coffee bar

Sprawling multi-purpose space with varied amenities and industrial vibe

  • Daily 9:00 - 17:00

Beam&Col. coffee bar is located within Weave Artisan Society, a massive converted ice factory that is now a multi-purpose hangout spot. It’s got a coworking area, coffee shop, craft beer bar, and a chocolatier all under one roof. The industrial warehouse vibe works well without trying too hard.

The cafe is great. More than great actually: my one previous complaint was the music (loud top 40s trash) but on my latest visit they were playing quiet jazz music, perfect for focus.

The space is huge with plenty of seating options for working or lounging. There are tons of plugs everywhere and it’s laptop-friendly.

The owner is keen on hosting networking events, which could be a plus if you want to mingle. Just check their Facebook page for events.

Food-wise, there is not much going on. Just some delicious cakes but no food. I love carrot cake and theirs is great.

The main drawback is the music – it’s too loud and heavy on the pop hits. Some quieter tunes would make it a better work environment. You can ask them to change the music but they might just put on more top 40s. Update: they no longer blast horrible top 40s.

Pros:

  • Spacious with varied seating options
  • Multiple food and drink options under one roof
  • Good for both work and socializing
  • Easy parking
  • Great coffee and chocolate

Cons:

  • None. This place is fantastic. Maybe one little nitpick would be the opening hours as they close at 5 which is a bit early.

Local tip: get your car or motorbike washed while you enjoy the cafe. There is a hole-in-the-wall washing business just beside the entrance to the cafe. Ask for wash my saying lang rot or lang motosii.

Blue Coffee at Agriculture CMU

Bright and minimalist coworking cafe on CMU campus

  • Daily, 7:30 - 18:00

This place is a stunner. Tall ceilings, glass walls everywhere – it’s like they took the concept of ‘open space’ and cranked it to eleven. The interior design here puts most cafes to shame. And the views? Just trees, greenhouses and farm fields. Not your typical campus backdrop.

Located smack in the middle of CMU, it’s a hotspot for students (obviously), but don’t be surprised to see a fair share of digital nomads tapping away on their MacBooks. It’s only a 5-minute drive from Nimman, making it the perfect escape when you need a break from the urban landscape.

They’ve clearly designed this place with work in mind. There are tons of table configurations. Whether you’re flying solo or need to huddle with a group, they’ve got you covered.

Pros:

  • Stunning interior design with glass walls and high ceilings
  • Variety of seating options for different work styles
  • Beautiful farm views
  • Great location on CMU campus, close to Nimman
  • Ample space for working or studying

Cons:

  • Can get busy due to its popularity
  • Might be too student-heavy for some

Blue Coffee At Mae Hia

Solid coffee and workspace, if you're in the neighborhood

  • Daily, 7:00 - 18:00

Look, I’ll be honest – I end up here a lot. Living in Hang Dong now, it’s become my go-to spot when I need a change of scenery for work. Is it the best cafe in Chiang Mai? Nah. But it’s damn good for what it is. The coffee here is legit. Blue Cafe doesn’t mess around when it comes to their beans, and it shows.

The vibe is spot-on for getting work done with a generous amount of power outlets built in. You could come here to chill with your friends, but a dozen people looking up from their laptops to glower at the extra noise might put you off.

Speaking of noise, you can definitely hear the hum of traffic in the background due to being right on the canal. I bring my noise-canceling headphones and deal with it fine though.

The Blue Cafe at CMU is more spacious and in a much prettier setting so I wouldn’t come here if going there was an option. Come here to work and enjoy a great espresso if you’re on your way to somewhere. It’s a good pit stop if you’re running errands or doing some shopping in the area.

There’s no food here besides cookies and sandwiches, which is usually my signal to leave when I get hungry.

 

Carrot Cafe cnx

Industrial vibes in the Old City

  • Daily, 8am-6pm

The minimalist-industrial design is becoming the new standard in Chiang Mai and I’m into it. Concrete walls, recycled wooden window frames. retro-modern furniture and furnishings, hardwood flooring, and exposed ceiling beams. It all comes together in an aesthetic that is as pleasant for working and studying as for catching up with a friend.

Carrot Cafe cnx, like so many Thailand cafes, is named for a pun. “I carrot live without coffee” is the pun.

The baristas are young and energetic. They look like they got some training. My espresso was well-pulled with good balance and lots of crema. No complaints. I tried their signature Italian soda drink, which was pretty (see photo) but tasted sweeter than pop.

They also sell some baked goods but not anything special or appealing—just croissants. You would think that with their business name, they would sell an amazing carrot cake, but no.

This is in the Old City so don’t expect to find a parking spot near the cafe.

The whole upstairs is for working. The chairs are very comfortable. There are some plugs but it’s not amazing so make sure you charge before you come. WiFi passes muster.

Overall it’s an exceptional cafe for the Old City because it’s so well-optimized for working. The fact that it’s on a little side soi means that, at least in the couple hours I was visiting, there was barely any tourist traffic.

I wouldn’t come across town to work at Carrot Cafe cnx. Getting in and out of the Old City is a hassle and the lack of parking is a hindrance. But if I was nearby anyway and wanted a break from the city heat, or if I wanted to meet a friend in the area, I would choose it.

It’s just great to see good work-friendly cafes setting up shop in the Old City.

Chapter One

  • Daily, 8:30 - 17:00

The downstairs is set up for casual eating/drinking while the upstairs is used by nomads and students during the day and then by board game groups in the afternoon. I find the menu very small with only a couple dishes, but who cares when they do those few dishes well?

I always find their espresso to be creamy and delicious.

Easy parking, good coffee/food, lots of plugs, air purification. What’s not to love?

When my guy friends want to meet up in town, this is usually where we go.

Pâte à Choux de Umong

  • Daily, 9:00 - 19:00

Just around the corner from Wat Umong, come for a refreshing drink and fancy choux patries. The coffee is honestly not good but the food is affordable and the seating is boho comfortable.

I recently tried the chocolate mousse cake from this cafe and it was amazing! The cake was perfectly airy and the chocolate mousse was creamy and delicious. They know their desserts. Really wish they tried half as hard with their coffee.

Recommend checking this place out if you’re already in the area. Since I used to live down the road, I happen to have been here a lot so it seemed worth including.

Check out nearby Sensation Coffee Roasters for third-wave coffee that’s genuinely amazing.

Savor Society

  • Daily, 07:00 - 17:00

Lots of seating, open early, incredible espresso, congenial staff members.

The food is all bread-based which is a disappointment, and the interior is almost Instagrammable but not quite.

You can rent their large comfy boho meeting room for 600b/half day. There is is also some kind of school attached, maybe for training baristas? I couldn’t find any info in English.

Overall this is a GREAT place to drink amazing coffee and get in a serious work session. If they expanded their menu a bit and upgraded the tables and chairs it would be an easy 5/5

The Baristro at Train Station

  • Daily, 8:00 - 18:00

Overall, a great place for a quick coffee and cake. The ambience is super chill and there’s free Wi-Fi and power outlets all around. Highly recommend if you’re in the area.

It’s a little underwhelming compared to the other Baristro locations but would be an easy 5/5 cafe in most cities around the world.

The Barn Eatery And Design

  • Daily, 09:00 - 23:00

It’s a real hidden gem in Suan Dok and it’s my go-to place to work late when I am in that part of town. The aesthetic is like a boho greenhouse. It gets very busy during the day because a lot of students go there to study.

If you can’t get a seat immediately just go walk around nearby Wat Suan Dok for a bit.

I like to get pork rice dish with 2 extra fried eggs for protein, and the mango shake if I’m feeling indulgent.

This cafe isn’t a must-see if you are doing a Chiang Mai cafe tour. But if you’re checking out the nearby temple, or need somewhere to work late, then definitely stop by.

There is a parking lot but it’s often full. In which case you can park in a nearby soi without issue.

The Story 106 Co-Working Space & Cafe

Spacious workspace with great ambiance but limited food options

  • Daily, 8am-9pm

The interior is cool, with big windows and a stylish design that’s sure to catch your eye. Upstairs, there’s a spacious co-working area with plenty of natural light, comfy chairs, and plugs for your devices. It’s a decent spot for getting some work done, but don’t expect miracles.

The attached craft shop has stuff that I actually want to own, offering tasteful wooden items that could make good gifts.

Now, for the not-so-great stuff. The coffee? It’s a letdown. Despite the fancy presentation, the taste doesn’t match up. The food options are limited and mostly carb-heavy. And if you’re driving, good luck finding parking – you might spend more time circling the block than enjoying your coffee.

But don’t let that prevent you from visiting as the upstairs is such a calm, beautiful, and spacious place to get some work done!

Pros:

  • Stylish interior with big windows and lots of hardwood everywhere
  • Spacious co-working area upstairs
  • Reasonable prices
  • Interesting craft shop attached

Cons:

  • Subpar coffee quality
  • Limited food options
  • Difficult parking situation
  • Have to keep buying stuff to use the Wi-Fi

Bottom line: If you’re after a cool-looking spot to work or hang out, Story 106 will do the trick. Just don’t come expecting a mind-blowing coffee experience. And maybe take a Grab instead of driving.

WAKO BAKE

  • Daily, 9:00 - 21:00

Cool Japanese themed cafe/resto located near the Huay-Kaew and canal intersection. The food is great and so are the desserts. I found their espresso a little bitter however.

This place is a gem when you want to get dinner and work late as they close at 9pm.

There is a courtyard with some water features, which is nice.

A lot of digital nomads run meetups and workshops here out of the small meeting rooms which can be affordably booked.