The unofficial global beer tour continues with Thailand, the 7th country on our trip. Thailand – like most other nations in Southeast Asia (and indeed, the world) – is dominated by a few large beer brands you’ll find pretty much everywhere. In Thailand, the major players are Chang, Singha, and Leo. (We mainly drank Chang). In the north, you’ll also see a lot of Beerlao, which is imported from neighboring Laos.
You’ll definitely notice some difference among the 3, but by and large they all taste quite similar. Usually all 3 are the same price as well; though we found Singha priced slightly higher in several places. Probably explains th
Beyond the big 3 Thai beers, you’re able to find some major global brands as well – Heineken is most prominent, but you’ll also see Budweiser, Hoegaarden, and (weirdly) Magner’s cider every once in a while as well. We even found some places serving Deschutes and Brewdog, as well as a German brewhouse serving Erdinger by the litre!
In addition to large well-established mega-brewers in most countries, Southeast Asia is home to a budding craft brewing industry. Thailand is no exception to this trend, with many small local breweries throughout the country. We didn’t make it to any official “brewery” locations, but did get into a few taprooms with local beers available.
In what’s become a trend in these posts, the best part about drinking beer in Thailand is often the amazing backdrops! From packed bars on Khaosan Road, to beachside bungalows in Koh Samui, to riverside cafe’s in Chiang Rai, and everywhere in between!
