I visited in a new “bar/restaurant” in Korat called “Utopia” last January. Outside, the name is only written in Thai (ยูโทเปีย) and it is located near the 100 years market. I think it opened maybe a month before I went.
I saw a banner outside written CRAFT BEER and SMOKE MEAT and I was intrigued. At night, the place is lighted with large pink/purple neons…
They do have craft beer on tap (Similar to Some Might Say or Must Kiss So – this last one doesn’t have on tap at the moment). I tried the ribs and it was good. It was cooked very well but the BBQ Sauce had too much “ketchup” to my own taste. The price is according to the weight. Still, it was quite good and some of the best ribs in Korat. I am kind of difficult for ribs as I do mine sous vide and cook them for 24 hours…with a dry rub and homemade BBQ sauce.The atmosphere was nice. I do like that place and they obviously have a different menu than usual French fries that we see in all bars…
Utopia is a multi-concept venue in Korat offering a combination of bar, restaurant, and entertainment space — a format that has become popular in Thai provincial cities. These hybrid venues typically serve Western and Thai food alongside drinks, and host live music or other events, making them social hubs for the local expat and young Thai professional community.
How has the Korat restaurant and bar scene evolved?
Over the past decade, Korat’s dining and drinking scene has diversified significantly. Beyond traditional Thai shophouses and karaoke bars, the city now has wine bars, craft cocktail venues, specialty coffee shops, fusion restaurants, and expat-oriented pubs. The young Thai professional class (drawn by Korat’s growth as an industrial city) has driven much of this evolution.
What cuisines are available in Korat?
Korat has a surprisingly diverse food scene for a Thai provincial city: traditional Thai and Isan cuisine (the staple), Japanese (several restaurants catering to the large Japanese expat community), Korean, Chinese, Western fast food chains, Italian pizza, shabu-shabu/hot pot, and increasingly specialty coffee and pastry shops.
Is Korat worth visiting as a food destination?
Yes, especially for travellers interested in authentic Thai provincial food. The Isan cuisine here is the real thing — not adapted for Western palates. Combined with the Korat amulet market, the Thao Suranari monument, easy access to Phimai Historical Park, and a genuine non-touristy atmosphere, Korat makes an excellent off-the-beaten-path addition to any Thailand itinerary.
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