Som Chai

Som Chai in the Koza shopping district is a jewel of a restaurant, and it’s easy to see why it’s been in business for seven years. Though quite small, the atmosphere is charming and clean, the staff are attentive, and most importantly, the Thai food is on point.

When you first enter Som Chai, you might sit down at one of its four tables (plus another outside), but the staff won’t hand you a menu; instead, they’ll point you to the 11 or so entrées featured in photos and descriptions on the bright turquoise wall. You’ll also pay, in yen, beforehand, and they’ll bring the food to your table. Water is self-serve, but if they have a moment, the owner and staff will come around to refill and chat a bit. Other drinks include Singha (¥550) and Orion (¥450) beer, plus shiquasa (Okinawan lime) juice, sweet Thai iced tea, and frozen coconut juice, when available.

All the entrées we tried were delicious and laced with signature Thai flavors (such as lemongrass and cilantro), including the Kao Pad spicy fried rice, garnished with blood orange (¥870), the lighter Yam Gai chicken over salad with sweet chili dressing (¥870), and the creamy yet tangy Tom Kha coconut milk and mushroom soup (¥500 regular, ¥800 large). Pad Thai noodles and Tom Yum soup are other available crowd favorites, and all dishes are under ¥1,000.

Just off of Park Avenue’s shopping strip, diagonal from Sideways bar, Som Chai is easy enough to find, though parking may not be. Here’s a great tip: when you drive up Park Avenue from 330/Hideaway bar, make a left when you see Bistro’s, and park in the lot to the right. The attendant will take your keys and give you a ticket, which you can get validated at Som Chai.

Open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 5 pm to 10 pm, last order 9:30 pm

Accept Yen & Dollars