At YoRice Amazake, rice isn’t plated – it’s poured. By fermenting local varieties of jasmine rice with koji, they create a silky, naturally sweet drink that’s packed with probiotics, B vitamins, and antioxidants – making it a bona fide rice-based superfood.
The project was founded by an unlikely trio: Pharadon ‘Opor’ Phonamnuai, Chiang Mai’s legendary saxophonist and owner of the iconic North Gate Jazz Co-Op; Dr. Kongkiat Kespechara, a physician with a passion for wellness; and artist Pramarn Jaroonwanich. Together, they’ve turned rice fermentation into both a craft and a cause, blending creativity, health, and social impact in every glass. Think of it as the creamy comfort of rice porridge distilled into a refreshing craft beverage. Whether you try the traditional version or a fruity twist like mulberry or lychee, each sip feels like health in a glass.
Just as important is how they source their grain. YoRice uses broken rice – normally relegated to animal feed – paying farmers 20% above the usual rate and giving new value to overlooked harvests. That same rice has also inspired North Gate Spirit, a small-batch label under the North Gate Distillery brand, proving its versatility from soft drinks to strong pours. The venture itself was born out of a ‘Rice for Life’ campaign to support refugees along the Thai border during the Covid-19 pandemic, and today, the three partners continue to weave purpose into every bottle, sip and story.
YoRice Amazake. Rice fermentation café. Drinks from B40. Sukasame 8, Chiang Mai. Open 9.30am-5pm. Closed Sun.