Thailand’s beer scene is as vibrant as its street markets and beach bars, offering everything from easy-drinking lagers to rich, flavorful craft brews. Whether you’re grabbing a cold one at a local bar or picking up a few from 7-Eleven, knowing the best beers in Thailand to buy can make all the difference. From crisp Singha to smooth Leo and the bold kick of Chang, Thailand’s most famous beers are everywhere—but which one should you choose? In this guide, we’ll break down the top beers to order in Thailand bars, the most popular Thai beers in convenience stores, and even dive into a Singha vs. Leo vs. Chang comparison to help you find your perfect pint.
Best Beers In Thailand to Buy
Top Beers To Order In Thailand Bars
When visiting bars in Thailand, you’ll quickly notice that most places keep their beer selection simple, usually offering just a handful of choices. While some bars, especially craft beer spots, may have a wider selection, the majority stick to the most well-known brands. If you’re wondering what to order, the six most common options are Singha, Leo, Chang, Tiger, Asahi, and San Miguel. These beers are available almost everywhere, from lively beach bars to casual street-side spots, making them the top beers to order in Thailand bars for both locals and tourists.
1. SINGHA: Best Selling Thai Beer
Singha Beer (pronounced sing), a true classic that stands the test of time as the best selling Thailand Beer. Brewed by Boon Rawd Brewery Company Limited, Singha has been a symbol of Thailand’s beer culture since 1933. This golden lager boasts a well-balanced flavor profile with a crisp and clean taste. The use of high-quality ingredients and a meticulous brewing process ensures that Singha Beer consistently delivers a refreshing experience with every sip.
Beer Advocate Score: 71 Okay
ABV 5%
Calories 130 per 12oz
2. San Miguel Light: A Light and Crisp Option
San Miguel Light may not be a native Thai beer, but it has firmly established itself in the local beer scene thanks to its crisp, easy-drinking profile. Brewed in the Philippines, this pale lager is light, refreshing, and a solid choice for those who prefer a milder beer. With a 5% ABV and lower calorie content than most lagers, it’s especially popular among those looking to enjoy a beer without the extra heaviness. While it may not be the most flavorful option, its smoothness and drinkability make it a reliable pick—especially when you want something light that still delivers a decent kick.
Beer Advocate Score: 62 Poor
ABV 5%
Calories 100 per 12oz
3. Asahi Beer: A Taste of Japanese Brewing Excellence
Asahi Super Dry may be a Japanese beer, but it’s widely available in Thailand and a popular choice in both bars and convenience stores. First introduced in 1987, it revolutionized the Japanese beer market with its crisp, refreshing taste and smooth, clean finish. While not a local brew, it’s a great alternative for those looking for a light yet flavorful beer to enjoy alongside Thai food. If you’re exploring the best beers in Thailand to buy, Asahi Super Dry is a solid option, especially if you prefer something dry and easy to drink.
Beer Advocate Score: 66 Poor
ABV 5%
Calories 153 per 12oz
4. Tiger Beer: A Popular Southeast Asian Brew
Originating in Singapore but widely consumed in Thailand, Tiger Beer has secured a place among the favorite beers in the region. As a lager with international recognition, Tiger presents a balanced and easy-to-drink profile. Its subtle hop bitterness and malty sweetness harmonize to deliver a refreshing experience that appeals to both beer connoisseurs and casual drinkers. With its popularity transcending borders, Tiger Beer is a delightful choice to experience a taste of Southeast Asia’s diverse beer culture. Tiger is a pretty solid lager.
Beer Advocate Score: 64 Poor
ABV 5%
Calories 135 per 12oz
5. Leo Beer: A Refreshing Choice
Leo Beer, crafted by the Singha Corporation, is another gem in Thailand’s beer repertoire. This pale lager presents a lighter and more delicate flavor compared to some of its counterparts. Leo’s smooth and mild taste makes it an excellent option for those seeking a refreshing brew without overpowering flavors. Its well-carbonated nature provides a lively effervescence, creating a pleasant drinking experience. Leo Beer often accompanies social gatherings, where its approachable taste appeals to a wide range of beer enthusiasts.
Beer Advocate Score: 66 Poor
ABV 5%
Calories 165 per 12oz
6. Chang Beer: The Iconic Thai Lager
Chang Beer is one of Thailand’s most recognizable lagers, brewed by Thai Beverage Public Company Limited and widely available in bars and convenience stores. With its distinctive green bottle and malt-forward profile, it has a crisp, slightly sweet taste that pairs well with spicy Thai dishes. While it remains a favorite among many locals and tourists, I personally don’t enjoy it—I find that it gives me headaches, making it one of the few Thai beers to try that I tend to avoid.
Beer Advocate Score: 67 Poor
ABV 4.8%
Calories 150 per 12oz
Popular Thai Beers In Convenience Stores
Thailand’s convenience stores, like 7-Eleven, Tops Market, Lotus, and Big C, make it easy to grab a cold beer to enjoy. In addition to the big names you’ll find in bars—Singha, Leo, and Chang—there are a few other great Thai beers to try that are widely available. These are some of my personal favorites, so whether you’re stocking up for a night in or grabbing a quick drink on the go, these popular Thai beers in convenience stores offer a variety of flavors to suit every taste.
1. MyBeer by Singha
When I’m buying from the store, My Beer by Singha is my go-to choice. It delivers a smooth, well-balanced flavor with a mild maltiness and a clean, crisp finish. Unlike the stronger taste of Singha, My Beer is lighter and easy to drink, making it a great option for casual sipping. One of the best things about it is the price—it’s more affordable than many other Thai beers while still offering great taste.
Beer Advocate Score: N/A
ABV 4.5%
Calories per 12oz: Unknown
2. Tawandang IPA
If you’re looking for something with a bit more character, Tawandang IPA is a fantastic choice. Brewed by Tawandang German Brewery, a well-known local brewery in Thailand, this IPA strikes a perfect balance between bold hop flavors and smooth drinkability. It has a slightly citrusy and piney aroma, with a malty backbone that keeps it from being too bitter. The best part? It’s reasonably priced, especially for an IPA, making it an excellent option for craft beer lovers who want quality without breaking the bank.
Beer Advocate Score: N/A
ABV 5.5%
Calories per 12oz: Unknown
3. Phuket Beer: Embrace the Beach Vibe
When exploring the tropical paradise of Phuket, Phuket Beer is a great local brew to try. Brewed on the island, this lager captures the laid-back beach vibe with its light, fruity taste and subtle tropical notes. It has a smooth, refreshing finish with a hint of malt, making it a perfect choice for sipping by the ocean or pairing with fresh seafood. While it’s not as widely available as other popular Thai beers in convenience stores, you can usually find it at Tops Market or select bars around the island.
Beer Advocate Score: 68 Poor
ABV 5%
Calories Unknown
4. Leo Strong Brew #8 – A Smooth and Approachable Newcomer
For beer enthusiasts looking for a darker brew that’s still easy to drink, Leo Strong Beer is a great Thai beer to try. While it has a deeper color and a slightly bolder malt profile than regular Leo, it remains smooth and well-balanced, making it an approachable choice for those who want a bit more flavor without an overpowering taste. This beer caters to drinkers who appreciate a richer yet refreshing experience, offering a nice alternative to heavier dark beers. Whether you’re enjoying it at a bar or grabbing it from a convenience store, Leo Strong delivers a satisfying sip with just the right amount of character.
Beer Advocate Score: N/A
ABV 5.1%
Calories Unknown
5. Cheers Lager: A Taste of Thai Refreshment
Cheers Lager offers a balanced and crisp flavor profile that appeals to a wide range of beer enthusiasts. Upon the first sip, you’re greeted with a pleasant mild bitterness, followed by subtle notes of malt sweetness. The beer’s medium body contributes to its smooth texture, making it easy to drink and ideal for quenching your thirst on a hot day. Unlike some lagers that may have an overpowering aftertaste, Cheers Lager leaves a clean finish, leaving you with a sense of refreshment that beckons for another sip.
Beer Advocate Score: 74 Okay
ABV 4.8%
Calories 150 per 12oz
Singha vs. Leo vs. Chang Comparison – Which One to Choose?
1. Singha – The Premium Choice
- Taste: Full-bodied, slightly bitter, with a crisp finish.
- Alcohol Content: 5.0%
- Best For: Those who enjoy a more refined, slightly stronger beer.
- Price: The most expensive of the three.
- If you want a high-quality, slightly bitter beer: Go for Singha.
2. Leo – The Balanced Beer
- Taste: Smooth, mildly sweet, with a light maltiness.
- Alcohol Content: 5.0%
- Best For: Casual drinkers who prefer a balanced, easy-drinking beer.
- Price: Slightly cheaper than Singha.
- If you prefer smooth, easy drinking: Choose Leo.
3. Chang – The Most Affordable
- Taste: Malty, slightly sweet, but can be inconsistent in quality.
- Alcohol Content: 5%
- Price: Cheapest of the three, often on sale.
Thailand’s Microbrewery Scene: Is Craft Beer Worth the Price?
Thailand’s microbrewery scene is still developing, but craft beers tend to be on the expensive side. While popular Thai beers like Singha or Leo are typically priced between 35-120 baht ($1-$4), craft beers can cost around 300-400 baht ($10) per glass, which makes them less appealing when you can enjoy a local lager for a much lower price. Grocery stores also offer a range of imported craft beers starting at 100 baht ($3), but due to the high prices, I usually stick to the more affordable local options and wait until I’m traveling in other countries for better value.
Conclusion Of Which Thai Beers To Try
As we’ve explored some of the best beers Thailand has to offer, from the iconic Chang to the refreshing Leo and tropical Phuket, each Thai beer to try has its own distinct charm. Whether you’re relaxing by the beach, pairing a cold brew with spicy Thai dishes, or simply unwinding after a long day, these beers provide a refreshing experience that captures the essence of Thailand. Enjoy them responsibly and savor the unique flavors that make each one special. Don’t forget to check out my guide to Thailand’s Best Bottles of Water to Drink for a complete hydration experience during your travels!
TIP – You are only allowed to purchase alcohol between the hours of 11am-2pm and 5pm-12am in Thailand.
What is the most popular Thai beer among locals?
Singha, Leo, and Chang Beers holds the title of the most popular beer among locals in Thailand.
Are Thai beers gluten-free?
Generally, Thai beers are not gluten-free since they are made from barley and other grains containing gluten. However, some breweries may offer gluten-free options, so it’s best to check the label.
Can you recommend a beer for someone who prefers a lighter taste?
If you prefer a lighter beer, Leo Beer and San Miguel Light are excellent choices with their mild and crisp profiles.
Are Thai beers suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
Most Thai beers are suitable for vegetarians, but some may use animal-derived clarifying agents. Vegans should check the beer’s label or inquire with the brewery to ensure it aligns with their dietary preferences.
Can you tell me more about the brewing process of Singha Beer?
Singha Beer follows a meticulous brewing process, which involves selecting the finest ingredients, including barley malt, hops, and yeast. The beer undergoes fermentation, aging, and conditioning to achieve its distinctive taste and quality.
