Ratings and reviews
Hours
Monday | 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM |
Tuesday | 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM |
Wednesday | Closed |
Thursday | 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM |
Friday | 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM |
Saturday | 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM |
Sunday | 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM |
Banh Somtum Reviews

The Thai beef salad was the standout dish for me. The spice was definitely present but it was the addicting kind. Super herby and light which I loved. The onions and cucumber balanced out the tender beef. I thought the pad thai was alright, it was on the sweeter side and could've been more flavorful. My friend said the crab puffs were solid.

I go here almost every week. As a Thai, I think they have the best pad kra prow, pad see eew and pad Thai. Actually, every dish I have had is excellent. Service is always efficient and courteous. Prices are reasonable.

If you're looking for an explosion of flavors, look no further than Banh Somtum! This place tagged itself as Laos/Thai cuisine aka Isaan (Northeastern) Thai flavor which is known for its spicy kick Somtum.The flavors are bold, spicy, and complex, but the prices are not inflated and the atmosphere is always casual and friendly. I found LaadNaa dish is the nearest to street food in Korat or KhonKaen. Whether you're a foodie or just looking for a quick and delicious meal, Banh Somtum is an experience not to be missed!"

We came here on a Saturday for lunch but it was packed and we didn't have time to wait so we decide to come back on Sunday for lunch. The staff is friendly , the restaurant atmosphere is like every regular Asian small ma & pa restaurant . We ordered 3 dishes : 1) the Lao Sausage was tasty and has a kick to it. I would prefer if it was a tad more hotter in serving temperature . It was served with the sticky rice which was good but a tad more moist would of been perfect 4/5 stars 2) we ordered the crispy rice salad , it was tasty but I would like a little more flavor to it . 3/5 stars 3) we ordered the Talapia steam dish , the fish was good . They put fresh lime to it so it taste good but when the lime is cook too long then the rind from the lime make it a tad bitter 4/5. Would prefer if this dish serve with some dipping sauce . Please remove the fresh lime , maybe use lemon and lime leaves only . The rind kill the good taste of the broth you prepared .

Cute restaurant, has maybe 8 tables. Friendly staff and food is delicious. We ordered more than we can eat like always. A Lots of free parking in the front.

Banh Somtum is one of my regular dine-in restaurant in Houston. Not only it is tasty, but the prices are also very reasonable. The dining room is quite small so it can get really busy during peak hours. I've tried a few of their dishes and they were all solid, but I can't help but to order Boat Noodles every time I visit. The broth is deep, rich and tangy. Bits of crunchy pork rinds and gai lan add amazing textures to the noodle dish. If you aren't too daring with spice level, you can request pickled peppers, or dried chilis on the side and adjust your dish to your liking.

You need come to here if you're looking for Thai / viet food. They're pretty quick with service and their food is so good! I came here for the first time after the freeze to get some warm food! My dad recommended it he eats here often- dine in and take out! Support a family owned small business!

This restaurant was very small and quaint. The workers were extremely friendly and courteous. My husband is Hmong so there isn't lots of places that sells papaya salad or lao sausage. He really enjoys this place and we had such an amazing time reminiscing nostalgic palates. Everything we ordered was authentic and delicious. 100% Shye (my husband) approved.
Banh Somtum
Banh Somtum is not just another Thai restaurant in Houston; it is an experience waiting to be discovered. Located at 13420 State Hwy 249 Ste D, Houston, TX 77086, Banh Somtum offers a mouthwatering combination of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this restaurant promises to deliver an unforgettable meal. Let’s dive into what makes Banh Somtum stand out and why it's a must-visit spot for Thai cuisine enthusiasts in Houston.
The Unique Flavors and Signature Dishes at Banh Somtum
At the heart of Banh Somtum lies its signature dish: Som Tum, a vibrant and tangy papaya salad that’s a favorite among Thai food lovers. But what sets Banh Somtum apart from other places serving this dish is the restaurant’s attention to detail and the use of high-quality, fresh ingredients. The balance of spicy, sour, salty, and sweet flavors in the Som Tum is truly exceptional, making each bite a burst of flavor.
Aside from Som Tum, the restaurant features an array of traditional Thai dishes, from savory curries to grilled meats and stir-fries. For example, the Pad Thai is perfectly cooked with just the right amount of sweetness and spice, while the Tom Yum soup offers a flavorful broth that is both aromatic and comforting.
The Ambience at Banh Somtum: A Perfect Blend of Tradition and Comfort
The atmosphere at Banh Somtum is as inviting as its menu. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by the warm and cozy ambiance that reflects the vibrant culture of Thailand. The interior design blends modern touches with traditional Thai elements, creating a perfect space for a casual meal or a special night out.
Whether you're dining with family, friends, or colleagues, the relaxed yet lively environment at Banh Somtum makes it an ideal choice for any occasion. The restaurant’s staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring that your dining experience is nothing short of excellent.
Why Banh Somtum in Houston Is the Go-To Spot for Authentic Thai Food
One of the reasons why Banh Somtum has earned such a loyal following is the authenticity of its dishes. Many restaurants attempt to Americanize Thai food, but Banh Somtum stays true to its roots, offering flavors and recipes that are as close to the real deal as possible. The owners and chefs have deep ties to Thailand, and this passion for authentic cuisine is evident in every dish they serve.
Moreover, Banh Somtum stands out for its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. This not only supports local businesses but also ensures that each dish is prepared with the freshest produce and meats available.
A Deeper Dive into the Banh Somtum Dining Experience
At Banh Somtum, it’s not just about the food – it’s about the experience. Whether you’re a seasoned Thai food lover or a first-timer, the restaurant offers a comprehensive culinary journey. From the moment you sit down to the last bite of dessert, you’ll feel immersed in the bold, lively flavors of Thai cuisine. The menu is thoughtfully curated to cater to a range of tastes, from spicy dishes for heat seekers to milder options for those who prefer a subtler flavor profile.
The Value and Quality That Make Banh Somtum Stand Out
Beyond just the amazing food, Banh Somtum provides great value for money. Despite its high-quality ingredients and authentic recipes, the prices remain affordable, making it accessible to a wide range of customers. Whether you're stopping by for a quick lunch or enjoying a leisurely dinner, you'll find that the value you get at Banh Somtum is well worth the price.
Savor the Best of Thai Street Food at Banh Somtum
In addition to its renowned Som Tum, Banh Somtum also offers a selection of Thai street food-inspired dishes that bring the hustle and bustle of Thailand's street markets right to your table. From Thai spring rolls to crispy fried chicken wings, these dishes are perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a starter before your main course.
This is a staple post-church lunch spot haha. We got the Tom yum, pineapple fried rice, pad kee mao, and pad si ew. We opted for the level 2 spice, which was just right. The Tom yum was the table's favorite. Light yet extremely flavorful. It was more so sweet than sour. Loved the chicken and glass noodles inside. The pineapple fried rice was sweet and savory, with nice chunks of pineapple throughout. The pad si ew and pad kee mao tasted pretty similar to me. Kinda just tasted like regular flat noodles. I'm used to more of a rich and sweet flavor from other restaurants. The pad kee mao seemed to be overloaded with large pieces of vegetable lol. Meats were tender. Although the noodle dishes were not the typical ones I've had in the past, they were still good. The noodles were thick and chewy. Fast and friendly service! The inside is relatively small, so if there are lots of people, it can tend to feel uncomfortably crowded. Thankfully, we did not run into that issue. It can also get a lil toasty in there. Ample parking!