About Cat Bar
Long-running expat bar near the Night Bazaar with live acoustic music nightly. Suits travellers wanting a relaxed pub atmosphere with international clientele.
Long-running expat bar near the Night Bazaar with live acoustic music nightly. Suits travellers wanting a relaxed pub atmosphere with international clientele.
Why visit
- Cat Bar is one of Chiang Rai City Centre's identifiable nightlife stops and a good baseline for an evening in Chiang Rai
- Located in Chiang Rai City Centre, the central area around the clock tower and Night Bazaar so it integrates easily into a wider Chiang Rai bar crawl
- Evening atmosphere is consistently good without being a tourist trap
- Expat regulars give it a settled atmosphere rather than the high-turnover tourist-bar feel
- Staff comfortable with international customers and English-language ordering is straightforward
What to expect
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Local tips
- Earplugs are sensible if the venue has live music and you are sat near the speakers
- Cash is faster than card use 100 and 500 baht notes for tipping if you stay long
- Happy hour usually runs 5pm to 8pm and shaves 30-50 percent off drink prices
- Pace yourself drinks here are often poured with a heavier hand than European measures
Frequently asked questions
Is there a dress code?
Most Chiang Rai bars are casual flip-flops and shorts are fine. A few rooftop or hotel bars require closed shoes for men and no beachwear. If unsure smart-casual is the safe option for evening venues.
Are taxis or Grab easy to find at closing time?
Yes Grab works well in Chiang Rai and most rides home are 80-250 baht. At peak closing times wait can be 5-15 minutes. Saving the bar's pin location in Grab makes pickup easier.
What hours is Cat Bar open?
Listed hours are 18:00-01:00. Closing time is usually enforced by local licensing. After-hours options exist nearby ask staff for current recommendations.