The Good View Bar & Restaurant

By local standards this place might be considered a bit expensive, but I think that when you weigh up the atmosphere and food that it's a fairly good, and unique, deal.

The Good View (and its slummy cousin, The Riverside) is one of the few places in town with decent, non-Thai live music. It's basically a cover band in all its glory, with a rotating roster of talented local musicians. They play the regular smattering of cover songs, with a pleasant twist - you can make requests. At each table there's a little caddy holding a pencil and request slips that you give to your server to pass on to the band.

But the Good View is not just another hot spot to catch the latest cover tunes. They also actually serve pretty good food. One of the attractions of the Good View menu is that it offers the diner versatility and choice. Their diverse menu includes Thai, Northern Thai, Western, and Japanese dining options. Their Northern Thai food is really good.

The other element that the place has going for it is the great atmosphere. It's a huge open covered restaurant right on the banks of Chiang Mai's main river, Mae Ping. At night it's a lovely view. Though do put on mozzie repelant as they can get pretty thick down by the water.

Overall I would totally recommend this place. It's great for a large group of people and a fun night out. Just don't forget to bring your wallet!