Beer was originally introduced to Thailand by European visitors, but since 1933, Thais have been brewing their own. While you can find imported beer at many bars and restaurants, give some of the local brews a try if you’re in the mood for a cold one. Keep in mind that Thai beer is typically a little stronger (around 6%) than you might be used to and is almost always served in a glass, with ice, unless you specify otherwise.
1. Singha
Suzanne Nam
The original Thai beer is a clean, crisp lager and is immensely popular in Bangkok. The mild, light taste of this beer is perfect for the hot weather and hot food, although some find the flavor a little too light. Nearly all restaurants stock Singha, which is pronounced “Singh” without the –a at the end.
2. Beer Chang
Suzanne Nam
Thailand’s number one selling beer is Beer Chang, which you can spot by its distinctive green label adorned with two elephants. In Thai, Chang means elephant and that’s a good name for this beer since it really packs a punch at 6.4%, especially when served in the common 630 milliliter size. That’s about double the size and double the strength of a typical light beer in the US, so four times the alcohol per bottle! Beer Chang is also a lager, though the malt flavor is a little more intense than Singha’s. Beer Chang is very popular, but often it's not available in nicer restaurants.
3. Leo Beer
Suzanne Nam
Leo Beer is made by the same folks that brew Singha and has a similar light, crisp taste. Leo is a cheaper beer than both Beer Chang and Singha and is marketed towards laborers and those living outside of big cities, so it’s rarely found in high-end shops. It is quite popular in Thailand, especially out in the country, so look for it in smaller, local restaurants or pick up a bottle at any convenience store.
