A Personal Favorite in Bangkok
Baan Somtum is a restaurant I truly adore. It has become a mandatory stop for me whenever I visit Bangkok. There is something about their consistent quality that keeps me coming back trip after trip.
Choosing Between Locations: Sathorn vs. Bang Rak
I have visited both the Sathorn and Bang Rak branches. While both are excellent, I personally prefer the atmosphere at the Bang Rak branch. If you are looking for a slightly more pleasant dining environment, I would recommend heading there.
Menu Highlights and Signature Dishes
Most of the dishes at Baan Somtum are satisfying, and I am particularly fond of their soups. However, if there is one thing you absolutely cannot skip, it is the fried chicken wings. In my experience, no other place can match the quality of their wings—they are truly in a league of their own.
The Mayongchid Som Tum Experience
During my April visit, I made sure to try the seasonal Mayongchid Som Tum. It is a limited-time menu item typically available until around March or April. The flavor was refreshing and unique; while it felt a bit unusual to have as a side dish, it paired surprisingly well with the rest of the meal.
While I personally consider the Corn Som Tum to be the most delicious option on the menu, I prioritize ordering seasonal items like the Mayongchid Som Tum for the sake of trying something new. I also noticed a watermelon som tum on the menu this season, which I am definitely curious to try next time.
Dining Solo: The Trade-offs
Traveling solo is wonderful, but it does come with one major drawback: the inability to order a wide variety of dishes. I often find myself torn between sticking to my reliable favorites or taking a risk on something new. Because I want to explore other restaurants in Bangkok as well, I usually limit myself to my go-to staples plus one seasonal item.
Regrets and Future Plans
On this particular visit, I was so full that I skipped the fried chicken wings, and I regretted it immediately. It was a mistake I plan to correct on my next trip. I also look forward to trying more seasonal som tum variations whenever I return, as these limited-time offerings always make for such a fun and memorable dining experience.