Ponganes is a small roaster’s bar in Chiang Mai’s Old City, with beans and tasting cards on its black counter. It serves northern Thai coffees and espresso roasts, from the medium-light Ocean Blend to the darker Woniora.
Coffee
Ocean combines Thai and international beans in a seasonal, medium-light espresso blend. The Thai seasonal blend is roasted medium-dark, while Woniora is the darkest, drawing on Italian espresso. Ask which beans are on the grinder and explain whether you prefer a brighter black coffee or a fuller milk drink.
The retail selection reaches beyond blends to named Thai coffees such as Huai Hom and Hua Mae Yen, alongside changing international lots. Availability varies, so browse the bags and cards before settling on one. Ponganes can grind beans for your brewing method, and sells filter papers too.
The counter
A brick screen frames the open-front bar, with trees shading the outdoor benches. Seating is limited, so take your drink away if the benches are full. The shop opens Thursday to Sunday from 10am, making it a stop to fit into an Old City walk after breakfast.