Northgate Jazz Co-Op

Chiang Mai’s Northgate Jazz Co-Op located conveniently by the north gate of the Old City is one of the few places in town where you’ll find an eclectic mix of customers. With live music every night, Sundays and Tuesdays are especially popular; the small but lively bar draws in a crowd of locals, expats and tourists of all ages and nationalities. The place usually starts popping around 9:30 or so in the evening when the bands start, but if you want a seat, head there early to snag a spot. By the end of the evening people are usually spilling out into the street! The location is great for most travellers as it’s easy to get to from anywhere in the Old City and many people can simply walk back to their hotels or guesthouses. The music is good too, ranging from experienced ensembles to bands just starting out and playing at open mic night, but we’d suggest you stick to drinking beer or whiskey, the bar’s mixed drinks and cocktails can sometimes be lacking…that said, you can’t find quite the same atmosphere or quality of live music anywhere else in town.