Som Tum is a beloved bold and vibrant dish. It combines dazzling flavors and textures - the sharp tanginess of fresh lime, the sweetness of palm sugar, the umami of fish sauce, the crunch of green papaya, long beans, tomatoes, and the heat of red chilies. Whether enjoyed from a bustling Bangkok alleyway or a high-end restaurant in London, Som Tum's perfect balance has made it a global favorite. The history of Som Tum traces back to Thailand's Isaan region and neighboring Laos. While its exact origin is uncertain, it is widely believed to have evolved from Tam Som, a traditional pounded salad made with tart fruits and vegetables. When immigrants from Isaan brought the dish to Bangkok, it was adapted to suit local tastes, leading to the creation of variations like the sweeter Som Tum Thai, which features palm sugar and roasted peanuts. Today, Som Tum comes in a wide variety of regional styles. Som Tum Pla Ra uses fermented fish sauce for a bold, pungent kick, while Som Tum Sua incorporates rice noodles for a heartier dish. Other popular versions include Som Tum Thai Kai Kem, which adds salted egg for a creamy contrast, and Som Tum Mamuang, which swaps papaya for green mango to create a sharper, firmer texture. Proteins like raw shrimp, shellfish, and grilled pork can also be added. These countless adaptations showcase the salad's incredible versatility and its perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, spicy and umami elements in endlessly creative ways. Add on options for Som Tum Thai: Grilled Chicken Breast - $14 / Seared Shrimp - $18 / Seared Lobster - $24