Sitting on a windy back road in Mae Rim, Lhong-Pa Coffee Bar and Home Cooking is the perfect place to escape the noise and chaos of the city. Nestled between trees and lush gardens, Lhong-Pa is the definition of serenity – the only sounds that pierce the silence are the whirr of espresso machines and the soft lilt of Thai instrumental music. The outdoor café opened four months ago and is managed by four friends who met while they were studying music together at Payap University. Their playful attitude is infectious and spreads to everyone they encounter, customers and staff alike. An afternoon spent here with these fun guys, all while grazing on plates of Caesar salad, spaghetti carbonara and fish and chips, would leave anyone feeling rejuvenated. Plus, they’ve got an extensive drink menu (pots of drip coffee and tea as well as creamy lattes, cappuccinos and Italian sodas) for those interested in spending a long afternoon sipping something cold and sweet at one of the many secluded tables on the property.