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Somtum Der
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Somtum Der
8.6
An Isan-focused Thai table built for bold spice, sharp herbs, and the kind of grilled-meat-and-salad rhythm that rewards ordering to share. Go heavy on som tum and larb, balance the heat with sticky rice, and treat it as a lively, fast-moving dinner rather than a lingering hang.
Must-Try Dishes:
Som Tum (papaya salad), Larb (Isan minced meat salad), Moo Ping (grilled pork)
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 7.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Isan-style heat-and-herb cooking centered on som tum and grilled meats.
Who should go: Spice-seekers who like sharing plates
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for the smoothest pacing
What to order: Som tum, larb, moo ping with sticky rice
Insider tip: Order one salad, one grilled meat, one rice—then adjust heat.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive; expect to circle at night. Rideshare or subway is strongly recommended.
Dress code: Casual but put-together—jeans and sneakers are fine, but trend-forward outfits fit the room.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—easy to talk at your table, but it’s not a quiet dining room.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for groups
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple vegetable-based salads and stir-fried options; ask about fish sauce substitutions.
Vegan options: Limited but possible—requires clear communication and willingness to customize.
Gluten-free options: Many naturally gluten-free dishes, but sauces may vary; staff can guide you.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you like energy and shared plates. The vibe is lively and fun, but it’s better for conversational chemistry than quiet intimacy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes for small parties, especially on weeknights, but peak weekend hours can mean a real wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for teens than young kids—the menu leans spicy and the room gets busy, with no dedicated kids’ amenities.
Best For
Better for: Bold Isan flavors, serious spice levels, and shareable salads that feel more authentic than toned-down Thai menus.
Skip if: You want mild, customizable Thai classics or a quiet, sit-and-linger dinner—look elsewhere for a calmer pace.
Somtum Der
8.2
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Trendy Table Hotspots
Comfort Food Classics
A northeastern Thai specialist that’s a strong family option when you order strategically—one noodle, one grilled or fried protein, and one salad with heat dialed to your table. The flavors are punchy and specific, so it’s best for families who like sharing and trying a few things.
Must-Try Dishes:
Papaya salad (som tum), Pad see ew, Fried chicken (kai tod)
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Isan Thai flavors that reward sharing and smart spice-level choices.
Who should go: Families who like to split dishes
When to visit: Early dinner so the kitchen stays paced
What to order: Papaya salad, one noodle dish, fried chicken
Insider tip: Specify spice level on every dish—don’t assume it carries across the order.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; very limited and difficult after 6pm—plan to walk, bike, or use rideshare.
Dress code: Casual and relaxed—jeans, sneakers, and everyday wear all fit comfortably.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is easy at the table but the room has energy.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation during peak hours
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetable-based salads, noodles, and sides can be ordered meat-free.
Vegan options: Limited—possible with modifications, but fish sauce is common and needs to be flagged.
Gluten-free options: Many naturally gluten-free dishes, but cross-contamination is possible—communicate clearly with staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual, low-pressure date—sharing plates and spice talk can be fun, but it’s not a quiet or intimate room.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, especially earlier in the evening or on weekdays; peak weekend hours may require a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for school-age kids who enjoy noodles, rice, or fried chicken; less ideal for very picky eaters or toddlers sensitive to spice.
Best For
Better for: Bold, authentic Isan flavors and family-style sharing at a casual price point.
Skip if: You want mild, Americanized Thai food or a quiet sit-down experience—choose a more traditional Thai restaurant instead.