Our Story

From a Village Kitchen in Isaan to Barcelona

The story of Madam Somtum and the Isaan recipes she brought with her.

The THAI ISAAN by Madam Somtum dining room with its hand-painted Isaan mural

When people think of Thai cuisine, many immediately think of Pad Thai or green curry. However, for Thai people, the cuisine of Isaan, the northeastern region of Thailand, is one of the most beloved. It is known for its bold, fresh flavors, as well as its use of aromatic herbs and traditional ingredients.

Thai Isaan Restaurant by Madam Somtum was born from Madam Somtum’s passion for Isaan cuisine. She grew up surrounded by family recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation for more than 40 years, especially her slow-cooked pla ra recipe and the authentic art of preparing som tam, always preserving traditional flavors. Her culinary journey has come a long way, from her home in Isaan to a restaurant in the heart of Bangkok, and today, to Barcelona.

We do not want to be just another Thai restaurant. We want to be a place where Thai people living far from home can reconnect with the flavors they miss, while giving people from around the world the opportunity to discover a side of Thailand they may not yet know.

The long communal table at THAI ISAAN by Madam Somtum in BarcelonaShelves of Thai ingredients and keepsakes at THAI ISAAN by Madam Somtum

40+ Years

Family recipes

Isaan → Bangkok → Barcelona

Culinary journey

Som Tam & Pla Ra

Traditional roots