Ristr8to

One of the best-known coffee brands in Chiang Mai, Rist8to has won over coffee lovers for its high quality beans, including several single origin beans from across the globe, and detailed foam art. In fact, the cafe’s owner has competed, and won, around the world in barista competitions. With the original Ristr8to located at 15/3 Nimmanhaemin Road, there are now several shops throughout town, including those in some of the city’s large shopping malls, serving excellently brewed, rich and earthy coffee – you won’t find the sweet, Thai-style drinks here. The company’s newest location, Ristr8to Lab on Nimmanhaemin Soi 5, also serves alcoholic drinks (though, sadly, no food!) in an airy, loft-like space that opens up onto the quiet street. Here, trendy Thais and caffeine-hungry expats will congregate to slowly sip their expertly prepared concoctions and, naturally, take plenty of photos of their pretty drinks and chic, minimalist surroundings. While, of course, everyone is welcome at the cafes, prepare to feel a little overwhelmed while looking at the menu, especially if you aren’t a coffee connoisseur. Pages of detailed descriptions and an array of bean and roast choices can make it difficult to decide which drink to try first!