Baan Somtum Phutthamonthon Sai 1 — Restaurant in Bang Chueak Nang Subdistrict

Baan Somtum – Phutthamonthon Sai 1 Branch

If somtum ever graduated from street cart to boutique bistro, this is where it’s working full-time.

Located just off Phutthamonthon Sai 1, this branch of Baan Somtum is where modern Thai-Isaan meets air conditioning and clean restrooms. The simple modern décor gives it a relaxed yet polished vibe, and there’s a VIP private room that’s perfect for family dinners, low-key celebrations, or secret gossip sessions over grilled pork.

What I Ordered (and Thought About it Longer Than I Should’ve): • Corn Somtum (2 chilies): Sweet from the corn, tangy with lime, and just enough chili to wake you up without setting your mouth on fire. Comes with a salted egg that adds a creamy richness. Portion is just right — not sad, not overwhelming. • Somtum Sua Thai with Fresh Shrimp (no chili): Think of this as corn somtum’s cooler cousin. Bold in flavor with a punch of lime and fish sauce, sweet undertones, and fresh shrimp. No chili made it super kid-friendly (or perfect for spice wimps like me that day). • Grilled Pork Neck: Smoky edges, a slight salty finish — but the portion had us squinting and questioning inflation. Tastes great, but maybe save it for a solo lunch instead of sharing. • Beef Gaeng Om (no pla ra): Like tom saep met a jungle curry and they had a baby. Herby, hearty, and full of body. Skipped the pla ra but still had plenty of oomph. Great for sharing — it’s a two-to-three-spoon deal. • Fried Chicken Tender with Corn Fritters: Crispy on the outside, tender and moist on the inside. Corn fritters added a sweet crunch — dangerously snackable. The dipping sauce? Chef’s kiss.

Pros: • Well-balanced flavors with spice you can customize • VIP room for when you want somtum with privacy • Dishes are beautifully plated, not just thrown on a plate • Clean space, modern vibe, and ample parking • Friendly staff and solid service flow • Fried dishes hit all the right notes

Cons: – Price leans upscale for Isaan fare – Some portions, like the pork neck, feel too shy for the price – If you don’t ask, spice levels may play it too safe

Final Word: Baan Somtum isn’t where you go to burn your mouth — it’s where you go when you want somtum with elegance. It’s not cheap, but you get polished plates, clean surroundings, and a restaurant that understands papaya salad deserves...

A great place for Isarn food (Northeast style foods). The variety of menus is amazing. I love the menu booklet, good quality paper and pictures. Their grilled thai wagyu ribeye is a must try menu. The beef is so tender and perfectly cooked, also the 2 dipping sauces that come along are good too.

The price is quite steep consider the portion of each dish, for instance the grilled wagyu ribeye is 375THB. I would rate this place a strong 4-star but I've deducted 1-star for having a smoking area right at the main entrance! People with right minds wouldn't this for a...

One of my favorite isan restaurants because their food is very tasty and authentic without being too pricey. We visited during the Songkran weekend and it was quite busy around lunch time. Usually the place is hectic because the servers are busy taking and bussing orders.

The vibe is also very rustic and homey. The food is delicious. What's best about the food here is that they add an ingredient or some factor that makes the dishes a little unique and interesting. Also they have a wide variety of isan menus.

Will...