Baan Somtum Sathorn

One of our favourite spots for Som Tam in Bangkok

Baan Somtum is one of those places we keep going back to whenever we’re in Bangkok. It’s casual, affordable, and genuinely good — especially if you love Isan food or just want to explore beyond the usual green curry and pad Thai. The Sathon branch, technically in Bang Rak, is easy to find just off Si Wiang Road and a short walk from Surasak BTS. It’s been awarded a Bib Gourmand by the Michelin Guide, but don’t expect anything fancy. This place is all about flavour and consistency.

Their som tam is the main draw — and it lives up to the name. The menu features over a dozen variations, from the classic green papaya version to more adventurous ones with salted egg, crab, or even crispy pork. We’ve tried a few, but the standard som tam Thai is still our favourite. It’s perfectly balanced — not too sweet, not too sour, with just the right amount of heat. You can taste the quality in the ingredients: crisp green papaya, fresh lime, good fish sauce, and properly roasted peanuts. Even the tomatoes taste like they were picked that morning.

The rest of the menu is packed with all the usual Isan hits: grilled chicken, sticky rice, larb moo, spicy soups, and plenty of side dishes that make it easy to share. The grilled pork neck is another standout — tender, juicy, with just enough char on the edges and a spicy dipping sauce that ties everything together. They also do some Central Thai favourites like tom yum and fried fish with garlic, so you’re not stuck if you’re dining with someone who’s not into spicy food.

The atmosphere is clean and unpretentious. It’s not street food, but it’s not trying to be upscale either. Service is quick and friendly, even when it’s busy, and the air-con inside is always appreciated on Bangkok’s hotter days! We usually go for lunch, and it tends to fill up quickly with office workers, locals, and a few regulars who clearly know what they like.

Prices are fair and portions are generous — two or three dishes between two people is usually more than enough. It’s easy to over-order here because the menu is so tempting, but we’ve never regretted it.

Baan Somtum is the kind of place that does one thing extremely well, but keeps everything else on point too. If you’re in the Bang Rak or Sathon area and craving som tam made properly, this spot should be on your list. Still one of the most reliable and satisfying Isan restaurants in this part of Bangkok.