🌿✨ Bunnak – A cafe by the pond in Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is a province that I can go back to many times and never get bored because there is always something to explore – this time is no different. I accidentally found a shop called “Bunnak” from a friend’s post on IG. At first, I didn’t expect much. I thought it might just be a cute, ordinary cafe. But when I actually got there, I felt that… this place is much more than just a regular cafe. 🚗 It’s not long from the city center, about 15–20 minutes, and you will find the shop in Pa O Don Chai Subdistrict. The route is not difficult, but once you turn into the alley, you will feel like you have entered another world. The atmosphere is quiet, peaceful, and like you are intentionally hidden in nature. 🏞 When I walked into the shop, my first feeling was “It’s so beautiful” (to be honest 😆) because the shop is located on the edge of a wide and still pond. The reflection of the sky and trees makes everything look dimensional. It is easy on the eyes in a way that I can’t describe. The shop is decorated in a minimalist style mixed with a light Lanna feel. It mainly uses wood, making it look warm but not out of date. 🪑 There are many seating areas – if you want to sit on the edge of the pond, there is a wooden terrace extending out. You can sit and sip coffee while watching the ducks swim, which is very enjoyable. Or you can choose a corner in the shop to sit and chat for a long time. There are many cool photo spots to choose from, so much so that you won't know where to start. 🍝 The menu here is more diverse than other cafes - there are both spicy Thai dishes and Western dishes, such as pizza with lots of cheese and steak that is grilled just right but not too dry. And the dish I would like to recommend is the shop's "Khao Pad Naem". It has authentic Thai flavors but is beautifully presented, like being in fine dining, but the price is friendly. ☕️ The drinks are also very well made, especially the coffee. They roast some of it themselves and choose beans that are suitable for serious drinkers, not just those who want to take pictures (but they do take beautiful pictures, lol). I really like the iced Americano with honey lemon - it's refreshing and not overly seasoned. 🍰 The cakes and desserts here are homemade. If you go in the afternoon, I recommend not to wait because they sell out quickly. The coconut cake and Thai tea cake are the best! 📸 For those who love taking pictures - the evening light is soooooo good. The golden sunlight reflecting on the water, coupled with the wooden tones of the shop, makes every corner look soft and smooth. It's like taking pictures with automatic film. 💬 Another thing I like is that the staff are very cute, speak well and seem attentive. It's not just the service that's good, but I feel that they really love this place, so it sends good feelings to us. #cafe review