We’ve been on a northeastern Thai (Isaan) spicy salad kick of late and sampled endless cheap som tam stands scattered around Bangkok. Baan Somtum on Soi Si Wiang in Sathorn produces 22 varieties of som tam along with a host of other Isaan soups and salads in a modern, enclosed restaurant atmosphere. You pay a … read the full post

Thai people from different parts of the country don’t always agree on everything, but one area that without question pervades all of Thailand is a love for the spicy, salty, sour and sweet flavours of Isaan-style salads. As a bit of a disclaimer, while these salads are on the whole considered northeastern Thai (Isaan) cuisine, … read the full post

It’s with a heavy heart that I admit I’m leaving Bangkok; life is pulling in other directions. People wonder why I love living here — it’s hot, chaotic, sometimes heart-breakingly cruel, but I’ve never been happier, or better fed. For me, being well fed apparently makes anything bearable. I respect a culture that in the … read the full post

Some may say that pad Thai takes the international title of Thailand’s premiere dish, but if you’re surveying at the local level many would likely insist that  som tam should take the prize. Som tam, otherwise known as papaya salad and best eaten with a side of sticky rice, can be found on most Thai … read the full post