While it is located in a beautiful area with incredible views, nice glamping hotels, scenic drive, for the most part when we were there, the café was not very well kept and the service and quality of the coffee was lacking. To start, the espresso drinks ordered were just barely warm and tasted terrible, not fresh coffee at all, but were served in the Doi Chiang glass cups - when we asked the server/"barista", in Thai, the persons working there were unable to make it hotter. (most cafés would offer to redo it and properly steam the milk). The café was rather unclean, with little care given to keeping it very clean, the tables were a bit sticky, or creating an "atmosphere". Then, the coffee beans being sold there were stale, most being 6 months or older from roasting, which is not so good at all for espresso use and certainly not expected from the source. This review may seem a bit hard on the "Estate", but this is the center and flagship café for this well known brand, so much more was expected of a coffee that comes in such well designed award winning bags depicting coffee being hand picked by happy Akha women. On top of this, the prices are the same as at say an airport Starbucks or other chain, while being in a farily remote rural "local" area - so it is doubtful any actual thai people go here. Now it may be a little better during the peak of the coffee season and the roast fresh, but that is not an excuse for what we experienced. When we went to the Doi Chiang coffee farm, which (was named as another farm) is just up the road from the "estate", a person there told us to go to another café, from another farm in the area, that was up the road, we should have listened. Probably had one of the worst cups of coffee I have had in Thailand - most of the time when I go to a "boutique"/independent café in Thailand, the coffee and the experience is excellent and served with a passion. When I have gone to Doi Chiang cafés at airports and other locations, the coffee, espresso, and experience has always been favourable and the the coffee beans sold reasonably fresh. Know in advance it can be actually cold up there and there can be low clouds and a perpetual mist as well as drizzle and rain with little notice - the roads, while in good condition for any car, are very sharp with some steep grades (if go beyond the main Doi Chiang road up to the peak, park, or viewpoint, those roads can be dirt and one lane - remember there may be no direction signs or they may be in thai as well as it may not be possible to turn around for quite a while- be careful, drive slow, and...
Read moreNestled in the mountains, Do Chang boasts breathtaking views that are truly spectacular. The serene beauty of the region is unparalleled, making it a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and natural splendor. For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the charm of the area, staying in the cozy cabins for a couple of days is highly recommended. The peaceful surroundings and fresh mountain air create an ideal setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. The staff at Do Chang is known for their exceptional hospitality, always going above and beyond to ensure that guests have a memorable stay. Their respectful and kind demeanor adds to the overall experience, making visitors feel welcome and valued. In addition to the stunning scenery and warm hospitality, visitors can also explore a small museum that showcases the history of Do Chang coffee. The museum provides insight into how this beloved beverage came to be, offering a fascinating glimpse into the origins of the local...
Read moreThe drive to this farm and cafe is absolutely breathtaking! It would be worth a visit just because of the drive. But luckily, it's worth for more.
We arrived in the afternoon and the farm was not "operational," so do not expect to get a tour or overview of the coffee process.
The barista did allow us to take a walk though the field surrounding the cafe, so it was nice to see the coffee cherry bushes and some of the workers who were wrapping up the coffee beans for the day.
The cafe has beautiful views as well. It was very quiet when we were there and during sunset, so perfect to enjoy some peace in this cozy cafe and village. The decor was beautiful, and the cafe quite spacious with good wifi. The coffee was good, but I really enjoyed the tea! The tea is made from the flowers of the coffee cherry bush, and this was the first time I tried it, as it was served...
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