Around New Years in Bangkok especially but also Chiang Mai, outdoor beer gardens are very much in vogue; they're the closest thing Thailand has to a cafe terrace in Europe: Hang out, enjoy the breeze, drink beer and watch people.

I havent' so far noticed one that stands out.. Sure I see some tables & chairs at Rim Ping (Airport), Airport Plaza itself, probably outside Rydges again etc..

But is there an area that really stands out for this?

Around New Years in Bangkok especially but also Chiang Mai, outdoor beer gardens are very much in vogue; they're the closest thing Thailand has to a cafe terrace in Europe: Hang out, enjoy the breeze, drink beer and watch people.

I havent' so far noticed one that stands out.. Sure I see some tables & chairs at Rim Ping (Airport), Airport Plaza itself, probably outside Rydges again etc..

But is there an area that really stands out for this?

There's what appears to be a nice one in front of the Chiang Mai Orchid Hotel. There is a bandstand usually with a live band on the weekends, large area with big bar, plenty of tables and chairs.

Looks like fun.