Som tam is everywhere—street carts, markets, food courts—but the real magic happens where tradition, terroir, and technique meet. These ten spots bring you crunchy, spicy, sour plates that tell stories of place and palate.
1. Som Tam Jay So (Silom, Bangkok)
This modest alleyway shop is legendary among Bangkok locals. The mortar crashes with authority; the som tam is pungent with pla ra and bold with chilis. Locals and office workers queue early to beat the rush.
📌 Tip: Ask for “pet mak mak” (very spicy) if you can handle it.
2. Somtum Der (Sala Daeng & branches)
A modernized Isan kitchen with consistency and flair. Their som tam pla dook foo (with crispy catfish) contrasts textures like a fine dish. It’s refined, but still retains the fire.
📌 Tip: Try their “differently seasoned” versions — they’ll show you how versatile som tam can be.
3. Som Tam Nua (Siam Square, Bangkok)
Iconic, busy, tourist-friendly but still good. Expect queues. Their version leans gentler than hardcore Isan, making it a good entry point for less adventurous eaters. Still, order the som tam mua (mixed salad with crispy pork) to feel the local style.
📌 Tip: Visit right before or after peak hours to avoid long wait.
4. Som Tam Khun Kan
This place rose from humble beginnings to earning a reputation across Bangkok. They won a major som tam competition in 1999, and many Thai food lovers stand by their bold, traditional flavors.
📌 Tip: Pair your som tam with their grilled pork shoulder or sticky rice for balance.
5. Lay Lao (Bangkok)
A newer name on the list that leans experimental. Their som tam hoy dong (with raw pickled cockles) or version with crab and pla ra shows how boundary-pushing Isan cuisine can be.
📌 Tip: Go for their “funky” versions — they’re not for every palate, but for those who like explosion of flavor.
6. Baan Somtum (Sathon, Bangkok)
With more than 20 styles of som tam, this is a playground for flavor explorers. From salted egg to som tam with crispy pork rinds, it’s vibrant, variable, and delicious.
📌 Tip: Order a sampler version to taste multiple styles.
7. Jae Goy (Phaya Thai, Bangkok)
A no-frills street stall with huge flavor. Their som tam sua pu pla ra (with soft shell crab + fermented fish) is bold and unapologetic.
📌 Tip: Come ready for spice; this one doesn’t pull punches.
8. Phed Phed (Ari, Bangkok)
A trendy modern Isan spot doing clean, fresh som tam alongside lively craft cocktails and crossover dishes. For a city evening, it’s a blend of tradition and style.
📌 Tip: Go with a group — you’ll want to try multiple som tam styles and side dishes.
9. Or Tor Kor Market Som Tam Stall (Chatuchak, Bangkok)
Inside the famous Or Tor Kor market, among pristine produce stalls, you’ll find som tam made simply but with freshness that lives up to its surroundings.
📌 Tip: Visit during market hours and pair som tam with grilled meats from nearby vendors.
10. Warorat Market, Chiang Mai
To escape Bangkok entirely, head north. At Warorat Market in Chiang Mai, you’ll find vendors making som tam that reflects Lanna and Isan influences. Fresh herbs, local chilis, and seasonal ingredients make it unique.
📌 Tip: Try the “tam jung” (jungle som tam) version with forest herbs.
