A good question, but on my recent travels around the main part of town, I would say that it does exist, but on a very small scale.
So many bars will take the opportunity to close early should they not have much in the way of customers on any given evening, which I feel is really detrimental to their business. I know tourism is on a low spot right now, but when (and hopefully it will) potential customers may pass by an early closing bar and not return thinking it has closed for good.
There are a few good bars along the river, namely Tony's, Mekong Sunset and Beer Belly Billys (also a restaurant) and not forgetting the New York Bistro, towards the far end of town near the old chedi.
Behind Rimkong Road, you have Nong's and another bar whose name escapes me right now, but equally lively when they have a bit of a crowd in.
Lobo's Den, the old 2 bikers bar, is on the main road towards the bridge end of town, can also be a lively little venue if you get your timing right, he also does some fantastic food.
In between the Phon Pisai Road and Prajak Road, there is also a new bars recently opened (naughty bar - the names sums it up I think) to go along with the Outback Bar, they are all places to have some sanook in.
Lastly, to the left of Nong Khai hospital on the small soi connecting Meechai Road with Keow Garulut (spelling) there are 2 or 3 bars including the Star Bar, Busy Bar and another...similar to above, they are all fun places to be.
Karaokes are open all over town so just keep your eyes open.
Does anyone know of any places I have not mentioned? As I am in desperate need of somewhere new to try out
