Visiting Bangkok, Thailand's Siam Square, you absolutely cannot miss Somtam Nua, the famous Northeastern Thai restaurant recommended by the Michelin Bib Gourmand! In addition to the signature green papaya salad, this time we ordered crispy fried chicken wings, grilled Matsusaka pork, crispy shrimp cakes, and Thai fried rice all at once, paired with refreshing longan juice and fresh coconut water to quench your thirst.
Business is quite good; we had to wait a bit before getting a seat!!
888 THB → Choose 1 from each of 6 major categories, total 6 dishes + complimentary rice
If 2–3 people dining together, this set meal is actually quite a good deal, allowing you to try many of Somtam Nua's signature dishes at once.
Coming to Somtam Nua without ordering these crispy fried chicken wings would be pointless! The restaurant fries the wings to a golden crisp, with an ultra-thin, dry, and crunchy skin that crackles with every bite, while the meat inside remains juicy and tender. Topped with fragrant garlic crisps and green onions, it's flavorful enough on its own, and dipping into the accompanying Thai sweet chili sauce adds even more depth!
This grilled pork neck is also a must-order signature at every table! The exterior has a subtle charred aroma, while the inside is springy with a satisfying crunch from the soft tendons. It's packed with juice and not greasy at all. Paired with the special Thai spicy-sour dipping sauce, the tangy flavor enhances the meat's natural sweetness.
A very eye-catching Northern Thai specialty! The restaurant wraps fresh tiny shrimp in a thin batter and fries them into a tower-shaped crispy pancake. The bottom is actually hollow, so no need to worry about finishing it all ((laughs)). The texture is super crunchy, and every bite is bursting with rich shrimp flavor. Garnished with cilantro for extra aroma, it's perfect as an appetizer or with beer!
Perfectly separated grains of Thai-style fried rice, aromatic and packed with wok hei! The rice has absorbed all the essence of egg and spices. Served with fresh cucumber slices, lime, and green onions on the side—squeeze a few drops of lime juice and mix well for a refreshing, palate-cleansing flavor that pairs perfectly with the fried and grilled dishes.
The ultimate thirst-quencher for hot Bangkok! This ice-cold longan juice is generously topped with plump, juicy longan flesh. The fruit is chewy and sweet, while the drink is light, smooth, and carries a subtle longan aroma. One sip instantly cools you down!
When in Thailand, you have to drink the most natural coconut water! The restaurant selects fresh coconuts, splits them open on the spot, and serves them chilled. The coconut water is sweet, crisp, and naturally fragrant with a subtle nutty note. After finishing, you can scoop out the tender coconut meat with a spoon—completely natural and guilt-free!
Somtam Nua's dishes are seasoned perfectly. Whether it's the crispiness of the fried items or the juiciness locked into the grilled meats, everything is spot on. Paired with a refreshing glass of longan juice or coconut water, it's absolutely divine! If you're shopping around Siam, be sure to add this spot to your food list!