Top 2 Bars & Entertainment Spots in Nakhon Ratchasima
Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Lorraine Aust, Somchai Boonmee
13/08/2025
Una Baufala, Pexels
Nakhon Ratchasima offers a distinct nightlife experience, primarily catering to local tastes, with a selection of bars and nightclubs, alongside a few venues popular among the smaller expatriate community. Opportunities for socializing are present, reflecting a more authentic Thai drinking scene.
Entertainment and Music:
Nakhon Ratchasima offers a lively music and entertainment scene, primarily catering to local preferences but also providing welcoming spaces for visitors.
The city features numerous bars and pubs where live music performances are common. A prominent venue is Tawandang Mahason Korat, known for its vibrant atmosphere and a mix of traditional Thai and contemporary live music. Monkey Bar also provides a setting with live entertainment, attracting both local patrons and a smaller expatriate community.
1. Monkey Bar/Restaurant Korat
Type: Expat-friendly Bar & Restaurant with Live Music
This established venue serves as a social hub for the expatriate community and welcomes new faces. It offers a relaxed atmosphere with live music, a pool table, and televisions often showing sports. The menu features both Western and Thai dishes.
Getting There: Located on Suranaree Road, Monkey Bar is generally a short taxi or songthaew ride from central areas of Nakhon Ratchasima. A taxi ride within the city typically costs around 50-100 Thai Baht. Songthaews, local shared pickup trucks, are a cheaper option, usually ranging from 10-60 Thai Baht, but may require negotiating the fare or understanding their routes.
2. U-Bar
Type: Local Nightclub
As one of Korat's most well-known local clubs, U-Bar offers a high-energy atmosphere with live music and DJ sets. It is a popular spot for Thai locals, particularly younger crowds, who often gather in groups to enjoy drinks.
Getting There: Situated at the intersection of Changphuak Road and the main road, U-Bar is accessible via a short taxi or songthaew journey from most parts of the city. Taxi fares usually range from 50-100 Thai Baht for short distances. Songthaews offer a more budget-friendly alternative, with fares typically between 10-60 Thai Baht depending on the distance and whether it's a shared or private ride.
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