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The 15 Best Restaurants in Nong Khai Are Way Too Good to Be This Chill

Fresh off a trip from Laos, my friends and I rolled into Nong Khai absolutely starving—like the girls from Yellowjackets (minus the who do we eat drama, thankfully). We were so hungry we almost settled for the first place we saw—and did.

It was decent, but we had a hunch that the town had way more to offer than just “close and convenient.” So, with our curiosity kicking in and days off to spare, we set out to uncover the best restaurants in Nong Khai.

From riverside gems to hidden local spots, and everything in between, here’s where to go in Nong Khai when you’re hungry and have standards. 

Daeng Namnuang

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Address: 526-527 ถนนริมโขง Nai Mueang

Contact details: +66 42 411 234

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 9 AM – 8 PM

Pricing: ฿฿

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Menu

Daeng Namnuang is located along Rim Khong Road, just a short stroll from the Mekong River. We immediately liked the open-air dining space since it gives off that almost picnic-like atmosphere, and the ample seating they have makes it perfect for tourist groups or families.

This place specializes in Vietnamese-Thai fusion dishes, and one of their best is called Nam Nueng, a grilled pork sausage platter that’s served deconstructed with all the traditional sides. Think slices of juicy pork sausages, crisp lettuce, garlic, chilli, pineapple, and pickled veggies. 

But what we loved the most was how impressive their service is. The staff remain attentive and efficient regardless of busy hours—food arrives quickly (5-10 minutes), tables are wiped down promptly, and you can tell the kitchen is well-coordinated to handle fast-paced hours. 

Pro tip:
If you’re planning to buy their famous dipping sauce or takeaway ready-to-eat meal kits and sausage kits (vacuum-sealed), visit before 3 PM—stock runs out fast, especially on weekends. And if you’re dining with a group for lunch, it’s best to call. 

Macky’s Riverside Kitchen

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Address: 960 Rim Khong Alley, Nai Mueang

Contact details: +66 80 464 9536

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 7 AM – 9 PM

Pricing: ฿฿

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You’ll find Macky’s Riverside Kitchen along the Mekong River near the Sadet Market, providing diners with alfresco seating with nice river views. We also think that the live music on some evenings adds to their overall appeal and laid-back vibe.

We’re quite impressed with their extensive menu that features both Western classics—like fish and chips, burgers, and pies—and authentic Thai dishes. It’s also worth mentioning that you can enjoy vegetarian and vegan options, too. 

It’s also great how they keep things clean, even when the diners rush in and out. Plus, wait times are generally short, and prices are reasonable, with meals offering good value for the portion sizes and quality.

Pro tip:
Try to visit during the early evening to enjoy the sunset over the Mekong while dining. Arriving around 6 PM allows you to secure a good spot before the live music starts at 7 PM.

River Chill

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Address: 89 Hat Kham, Mueang Nong Khai District

Contact details: +66 98 854 6945

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 AM –12 AM

Pricing: ฿฿

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Menu

True to its name, River Chill is a restaurant where people can dine and chill along the banks of the Mekong River. They offer a relaxed atmosphere with spacious outdoor seating across two levels and a well-lit bar.

Speaking of bars, the one they have is fully stocked, providing you with a selection of cocktails, beers, and non-alcoholic beverages. And the addition of live music just ups the entire dining experience, especially during the evening. 

But if you’re here for food, their Thai dishes don’t disappoint. For instance, their Tom Yum Pla Kang (spicy catfish soup), Yum Som-O (pomelo salad), and Pla Kapong Tod Nam Pla (fried sea bass with fish sauce) are great items of their extensive menu. 

Pro tip:
If you’re interested in trying local specialties, ask the staff about seasonal dishes or off-menu items. You should also consider bringing insect repellent, especially if you plan to dine outdoors in the evening. 

The For Rest Cafe

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Address: Saiderm Rd Pho Chai, Mueang Nong Khai District

Contact details: +66 81 661 9988

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 9 AM – 6 PM

Pricing: ฿฿

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The For Rest Cafe has probably one of the most unique and stunning places we’ve seen for a cafe or restaurant. You see, this cafe transforms former rice fields into forest-like settings, with waterfalls, pathways, lotus ponds, and themed domes. 

In other words, this spot is perfect if you want a side of aesthetics with your dining. Literally, they have photo spots, like a heart-shaped mountain setup with a waterfall, four uniquely styled dome rooms, and natural and architectural elements that provide a nice backdrop.

Food-wise, they hit the mark, too, with Thai and Western dishes, including pizzas, pastas, and local favorites. You can also order a selection of refreshing beverages such as the Black Coco and coconut blossom-infused coffee.

Pro tip:
Note that a fee of ฿50 is required to access the scenic zones, but this amount is consumable against purchases inside. You can also bring your furbaby with you since they welcome pets.

Cheeva Bistro

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Address: 947, Mi Chai Alley, Tambon Nai Mueang

Contact details: +66 64 759 8668

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 11 AM – 9 PM

Pricing: ฿฿

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Cheeva Bistro is an intimate Italian bistro offering refined dishes in the heart of Nong Khai. So, you can expect to order a selection of pasta dishes, steaks, and salads.

We also appreciate how the bistro maintains a high standard of cleanliness—it just makes things neater and boosts our trust in their food. That said, we love their ragu, Caesar salad, and carbonara, and thankfully, they also have their menu in English so tourists can easily browse it.

Lastly, we appreciate their staff and their overall service. They’re always willing to answer any questions and assist you with ordering and other needs.

Pro tip:
Given its limited seating, it’s advisable to make a reservation to avoid waiting. And note that the bistro is closed on Monday, so plan your visit accordingly.

Cafe Viet

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Address: Nai Mueang, Mueang Nong Khai District

Contact details: +66 85 824 2356

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 AM – 6 PM

Pricing: ฿฿

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Menu

With direct views of the Mekong River, Cafe Viet combines riverside charm with chill, airy seating. Its two-story structure allows for al fresco dining on the upper deck, where you can enjoy your meal with a panoramic view of Laos across the water.

They stand out most for their Vietnamese-style noodle soups, like classic Phở Bò (beef noodle soup) and Phở Gà (chicken), giving you spoonfuls of umami. You’ll also find MhooYor (Vietnamese pork sausage) served with spicy dipping sauces, and the popular Saigon Omelette.

And we can’t forget about their dark Vietnamese drip coffee (hot and iced) that’s often sweetened with condensed milk for a creamy finish. If you’re up for it, try the Egg Yolk Cream Coffee, a frothy treat with a custard-like topping.

Pro tip:
Quick heads-up, most dishes are priced between ฿100-฿300, which is a good value for its quality and portion sizes, but this can be a bit steep for some. And if you love pho, request extra herbs or lime wedges—they’re happy to accommodate.

Likhit Craft Beer

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Address: 87, Hat Kham, Mueang Nong Khai District

Contact details: +66 84 954 3366

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 AM – 11 PM

Pricing: ฿฿

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Menu

Likhit Craft Beer has an impressive list of Thai craft beers, like the Anan DDH Hazy IPA, known for its fruity aroma and smooth finish. We suggest you sample different brews before making a choice, so that you’ll get to enjoy the experience more.

And to complement the beer offerings, they serve Thai dishes such as spicy salads, stir-fried specialties, and hearty soups. We love how these flavourful options are designed to pair well with the diverse beer selection—don’t hesitate to ask their staff for the best pairings.

Not to mention, the place also plays some jazz music, adding a sophisticated touch to the laid-back environment. Plus, the open-air terrace lets you chill riverside with great views of the Mekong River.

Pro tip:
Consider visiting during the early evening to secure a prime spot on the terrace. This timing offers the best views of the sunset and allows for a more relaxed atmosphere before the dinner crowd arrives.

King-T Steak Nongkhai

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Address: หน้าบ้านพักแขวงการทาง ในเมือง เมือง Nong Khai 43000

Contact details: +66 83 026 7672

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9:15 PM

Pricing: ฿฿

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Menu

What we like most about King-T Steak Nongkhai is their portion sizes. Their Steak Tray King Size is a hearty platter with spaghetti, grilled and fried chicken, fried fish, pork sirloin, pork neck, fried egg, sausage, bacon, cheese dip, bread, salad, and fries—that sounded like a tongue twister.

And aside from your traditional steaks, they have Thai-Western fusion dishes. Think spaghetti with tom yum sauce, and stir-fried spaghetti basil with baked New Zealand mussels pasta.

Lastly, we also think their variety of pizzas is great for groups or families, like double cheese and Hawaiian. You can also go for their burgers, salads, and appetizers like chicken nuggets and garlic bread.

Pro tip:
For those interested in trying a bit of everything, the Steak Tray King is a good option—perfect for sharing around the table. And keep in mind that weekends can get especially busy, so calling ahead to secure a table is a good idea. 

Yarmyen Nongkhai (ยามเย็นหนองคาย)

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Address: 96 Hat Kham

Contact details: +66 65 449 5547

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 11 AM – 12 AM

Pricing: ฿฿

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Menu

Yarmyen Nongkhai is like a riverside hidden gem, at least for tourists, since most of the diners here are locals—an indication that the food and vibes are high quality. It’s located along the Mekong River, so you’ll get front-row seats to one of the most picturesque sunset views.

We’re glad that their food is consistently flavorful and thoughtfully presented (Instagram-worthy). Some of our favorites include the crispy pork bean salad and desserts like their toast creations.

They also have a wide range of drinks, both hot and cold. We noticed that there are also quite a lot who just go for a quick drink and share a small order with friends before leaving—well, not before snapping some photos around the place.

Pro tip:
Plan to arrive about an hour before sunset to get the best seat along the riverbank without the rush. And it would be a good idea to bring a camera if you have one, especially for taking those stunning sunset photos.

Tamnak Huế Authentic Vietnamese foods and Cafe

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Address: 257/1 ถนน บันเทิงจิต, Nai Mueang

Contact details: +66 83 416 3678

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 AM – 9 PM

Pricing: ฿

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Menu

We love how Tamnak Huế incorporates both Vietnamese and Thai dishes into their menu. To give you an idea, signature offerings include the rice noodles with coconut curry and spaghetti with bacon and dried chili.

Aside from their savory dishes, you can also think of this place as a chill cafe where you can get drinks like coffee, tea, and smoothies. And locals are a constant here, so that tells you the type and quality of food they serve.

It’s also worth highlighting that they have many dishes and shareable orders at a reasonable and relatively cheap price. We also appreciate how more affordable items don’t compromise on taste and portion sizes.

Pro tip:
We recommend trying the egg coffee, Bánh mì, and Thai-style omelet rice, if you’re not craving noodles and unsure what to get, but don’t want to be too adventurous.

Krua Anchan Roti & Tea Shop

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Address: 978 Moo.5 Nongkhai – Phonphisai Rd

Contact details: +66 42 651 656

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 11 AM – 10 PM

Pricing: ฿฿

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Menu

One of the first things you’ll notice when you arrive at Krua Anchan Roti & Tea Shop is their ample parking space and how spacious the dining area is. It’s a great stop for family or group dinners, offering both indoor and outdoor seating options—personally, the AC wins.

They have an extensive menu that includes seafood, traditional Thai dishes, and all sorts of roti options. Some of the crowd favorites are their grilled river prawns, crab curry, and spicy stir-fried clams. 

To add some sweetness, their selection of roti ranges from classic butter and condensed milk to toppings like Nutella and golden threads. And you can’t miss out on their “cha chak” or pulled tea—a Southern Thai specialty known for its frothy texture and rich flavor.

Pro tip:
If you want to enjoy their seafood, visit with a group so you can try a wider selection of dishes without ordering too much (and you can even split the bill if that’s how you guys work). Many items are served family-style and are best shared. 

Sabai Jai Cafe’ & Camp

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Address: 11 DPT. Nong Khai 2017 Rd, Hat Kham

Contact details: +66 88 661 1187

Opening hours: 

  • Monday to Friday: 11 AM – 12 AM
  • Saturday to Sunday: 10 AM – 12 AM

Pricing: ฿฿

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Menu

Tucked along the Mekong River at Hat Kham, Sabai Jai Cafe & Camp is like a nice patch of greenery that has indoor and outdoor seating options. The vibe in the evening switches up a bit as live music performances enhance the dining experience.

We love how the outdoor area has a lot of space, with tables having lots of breathing room from each other. Food-wise, they have a decent variety, from freshly baked pizzas to diverse Thai specialties. 

Don’t miss out on their coffee and selection of beers, too, since they pair well with dinner and the live music in the background. Also, some of the diners we talked to shared how lovely the staff were in accommodating them, and we totally agree.

Pro tip:
If you’re visiting on a weekend or holiday, consider calling ahead to ask about live music schedules or special events. Occasionally, they host themed nights or private gatherings that may affect seating availability, especially for riverfront spots. 

Anya Thai Dining & Café

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Address: 100 ม.12 Mueang Nong Khai District

Contact details: +66 42 081 088

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 11 AM – 10 PM

Pricing: ฿฿฿

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Anya Thai Dining & Café is another Mekong Riverside restaurant that offers refined Thai cuisine with a view. You can choose between the air-conditioned interior or the breezy upstairs terrace that overlooks the river.

Another thing that stood out to us was the presentation of their food and drinks—simply put, it was stunning and appetizing. So, it was a pleasant feeling to know that both taste and looks were on the same page, such as their papaya salad, sweet chili fish, and orange cake.

We also noticed that its location makes it a convenient dining spot for those entering Thailand from the Laos border. Travelers appreciate the warm welcome, refreshing drinks, and relaxing setting—there’s decent parking, too.

Pro tip:
And if you want to taste some of the freshest they have, then try their Mekong Fish Tom Yum, which is literally from the river itself. And it’s one of the favorites, both for locals and tourists.

U Seoul Grill NongKhai – ยูโซลกริล ชาบู ปิ้งย่าง บุฟเฟต์ หนองคาย

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Address: อัศวรรณ 1 โลตัส หนองคาย โพธิ์ชัย Tambon Mi Chai

Contact details: +66 96 828 4079

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 11:30 AM – 10 PM

Pricing: ฿฿

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Menu

If you’re up for some all-you-can-eat Korean-style shabu and BBQ buffet in Nong Khai, U Seoul Grill is a good place to start. We love how the place is set up to accommodate both small groups and large gatherings, making it a popular choice for friends and families.

Expect to choose from a diverse selection of meat, seafood, and vegetables for grilling and shabu. We certainly enjoyed their marinated pork, beef slices, fresh shrimp, and all sorts of mushrooms and greens—it’s very much customizable.

We think they have reasonable rates for their food and buffet—it’s usually around ฿289 per person, depending on what the selection of meats is focused on (beef or pork). Their buffet packages get you unlimited refills of food and drinks for a two-hour dining period.

Pro tip:
If you want to avoid wait times, consider arriving during off-peak hours. Also, it’s a good idea to pair your meal with the restaurant’s selection of Korean beverages to get the full experience—plus it complements the grilled and shabu items well. 

Krua BoonChoo ครัวบุญชู

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Address: Mi Chai, Mueang Nong Khai

Contact details: +66 42 420 024

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 10:30 AM – 10 PM

Pricing: ฿฿

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Krua BoonChoo is a great restaurant, especially if you’re in a group. It’s spacious, welcoming, and has air-conditioned indoor seating and private rooms, which means they’re flexible when it comes to dining arrangements or parties. 

Their extensive menu is worth highlighting, too. Some of their popular dishes are fresh river fish and veggie hotpot, spicy stir-fried catfish, Viet-style omelet, banana blossom salad, and spicy minced duck salad.

Here’s another bonus: the restaurant offers seasonal specialties like Kaeng Phak Wan Khai Mod Daeng, a spicy soup with local vegetables and ant eggs. This dish gives you a taste of the region’s unique culinary heritage.

Pro tip:
To end your meal on a sweet note, try their grass jelly with fresh milk—a sweet and creamy dessert that provides a refreshing finish.

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