Som Tam Nua

Revisiting Som Tam Nua in Siam Square: Worth the Hype?

When it comes to authentic Thai flavor in Bangkok, Papaya Salad (Som Tam) is an absolute must-try. Som Tam Nua is arguably one of the most famous places for it in Siam. Having had a disappointing experience years ago due to slow service and unfriendly staff, I decided to give it another shot—and I’m glad I did!

📍 How to Get There (Main Branch vs. Siam Center)

• Original Branch (Siam Square Soi 5): Take BTS Siam Station Exit 4, walk into Siam Square Soi 5 for a minute, and you’ll find it right near Mango Tango.
• 2nd Branch (Siam Center 4th Floor): Connected directly via BTS Siam Station Exit 1. Head up to the 4th floor of Siam Center, right near the escalators.

🍗 Honest Food Review & Must-Orders

• Som Tam Thai (75 THB): Classic green papaya salad. Punchy, spicy, and sour, though the portion size was noticeably small.
• Fried Chicken / Kai Thod (120 THB):The star of the show! Crispy skin infused with fried garlic aroma and juicy meat inside. Even if you come for the Som Tam, you'll leave thinking about this chicken.
• Tom Saab Kra Dook (115 THB): Hot and sour pork prime rib soup. Perfectly offsets sticky rice (Khao Niew, 25 THB) when your mouth gets dry. *Note: Remember to ask for "No Cilantro (Mai Sai Pakchi)" if you dislike coriander!*
• Kab-Moo & Nam Prik Noom (115 THB): Crispy pork cracklings and northern Thai sausage served with a roasted green chili dip. Spicy, savory, and great with cold Singha beer!

Total bill came out to 569 THB for two hungry adults. While slightly pricier than typical local street stalls, the consistent flavor and convenient location make it well worth a stop when around Siam.