The Grumpy Old Men: My Beer Friend Taproom

The Grumpy Old Men is My Beer Friend's second Chiang Mai taproom: a small, regulars-first bar on Chang Klan Road in the Night Bazaar area, opposite the Shangri-La hotel. From the outside it is understated, sitting in a car park, but the inside is full of character, with eclectic decor, one of the largest CD collections you are likely to see in a bar, and an eye-catching beer menu and tap system.

House-brewed My Beer Friend styles, typically across four taps, sit beside rotating imported and regional craft beer, served in the brand's own glassware. Beer Asia found guest lines from Liberty in New Zealand, Three Weavers in the United States and Heart of Darkness in Vietnam, whose Moral Shock pilsner it rated highly, while reviewers mention Thai beers such as Thong Pradit IPA and Samata's raspberry lemon cheesecake sour. Mead and mixed drinks are available for non-beer drinkers.

Reviewers consistently single out owner Mac's deep knowledge of the tap list and his readiness to talk beer with anyone who walks in, along with the care taken over how the beer is kept. Crispy tempura squid is the snack people recommend. Some find prices a little high for Chiang Mai, but the quality is the point.

Find it at 164/39 Chang Klan Road. Beer Asia lists opening from 5.30pm to midnight, closed on Wednesdays. It's the low-key, no-frills counterpart to the more polished My Beer Friend Nimman, and the kind of place locals return to despite the tourist-heavy neighbourhood. Quieter times are best if you want a proper conversation with the owner.