Taste of Cities
Som tum (Thai green papaya salad)
Traditional

Som Tum

in Bangkok

Green papaya salad pounded in a mortar with chilies, lime, fish sauce, tomatoes, and peanuts. Originally from Isaan in northeast Thailand, it's now everywhere in Bangkok — fiery, tangy, and crunchy.

Did you know?

A good som tum vendor will ask how many chilies you want. Locals typically order 5-10; tourists are advised to start with 1-2.

street-foodspicy

Where to Find It

1 place to try Som Tum in Bangkok

Thai green papaya salad

Som Tam Nua

$$$$

Siam

A perennially packed restaurant in Siam Square famous for its extensive som tum menu. Over 20 varieties of green papaya salad, from mild to face-meltingly spicy, plus excellent fried chicken.

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