A Michelin-Approved Obsession: Why Som Tum Jinda is North York's Must-Try Thai
Let’s talk about the edit. You know I am all about a curated life—finding those elevated pieces and experiences that just feel right.
And when I find something truly special, I simply have to share it with you.
My latest discovery is a culinary one, and it is an absolute must-try if you are in North York. I’m talking about Som Tum Jinda.
Now, they do have two incredible locations—one downtown on Gerrard Street and one at Fairview Mall. I was recently invited for a tasting at the Fairview location, and it was a complete revelation.
Stepping into Som Tum Jinda isn't just walking into another mall restaurant; it’s like uncovering a truly authentic, elevated culinary moment. It’s an experience all on its own.
The Story
This is not your average Pad Thai destination. This is a deep dive into Isaan cuisine—the vibrant, soulful, and wonderfully audacious food of northeastern Thailand. The flavors are bold, pungent, spicy, and layered in a way that is just so incredibly addictive.
The visionary behind it all is Jinda, whose passion for her homeland's uncompromised recipes is the thread that runs through every dish. And the industry has taken note: Som Tum Jinda has been awarded the coveted Michelin Bib Gourmand (2024, 2025). You'll understand why once you get a taste of their dishes!
What Makes Isaan Cuisine Different?
Many people are familiar with central Thai dishes like Pad Thai and Green Curry. However, Isaan food, also known as Northeastern Thai cuisine, offers a dramatically different and diverse flavor profile.
Spicy, Sour, Salty, and Sweet (with a Kick!): While central Thai food balances these elements, Isaan cuisine often leans heavily into BOLD spice, intense sourness from lime and tamarind, and the umami depth from fermented fish sauce (pla ra).
Focus on Fresh Herbs and Fermentation: Expect a generous use of fresh herbs, chili, garlic, and sticky rice (khao niao) as a staple. Fermented ingredients are key, adding complex layers of flavor.
Unique Dishes Beyond the Usual: While you'll find "Som Tum" (papaya salad) on most Thai menus, Som Tum Jinda elevates it with regional variations and unparalleled authenticity.
The Cocktails: An Essential Opening Note
We started with the most beautiful collection of cocktails.
My Edit: I had the Lychee Gimlet and my absolute new favorite, the Thai Tea Pina Colada. This was a moment. It’s made with Thai tea-infused rum, creamy coconut, pineapple, and lime.
Janviere’s Edit: She went for the gorgeous Ube Margarita (the color!) and a perfectly balanced Guava Vodka Sour. The entire cocktail curation? A 10/10.
The Food
This is where the story gets really good. My tasting was a full-on narrative of Isaan flavors, and the curation was just divine. Here is my "edit" of what we tried:
Kai Tod (Fried Chicken Wings): Let's start with my personal obsession of the day. These were unbelievable. Perfectly crispy, shatteringly light, and the seasoning was... chef's kiss. An absolute 10/10. I would go back and order two plates of these next time!
Kha Kob Tod (Deep Fried Frog Legs): Be adventurous! Janviere (@JanviereMukama) ordered these, and they were a total highlight for her. We were debating on other items, but as soon as she saw this on the menu- her eyes lit up and it was an IMMEDIATE yes for her. As she (a true frog leg connoisseur) noted, it’s so rare to find quality frog legs done this well. Draped in crispy garlic, they were impossibly tender and delicate. I blinked and her plate of frog legs were gone haha!
Larb Ped (Duck Larb): A new classic for me. This minced duck salad was a textural symphony of fresh herbs, lime, chili, and that signature toasted rice powder. So vibrant and complex.
Yum Hua Plee (Banana Blossom Salad): This was such a unique discovery. A delicate salad of banana blossom, shredded pork skin, and herbs, all served with crispy rice chips. The textures were incredible.
Jaew Hon (Isaan Hot Pot): This was the true centerpiece of the table. A fragrant, aromatic Thai-style hot pot bubbling with lemongrass, basil, and chilies. We had it with chicken, and it was the most comforting, soulful dish.
Khao Noew Mamuang (Mango Sticky Rice): The timeless classic, executed to perfection. The mango was perfectly ripe, and the coconut sticky rice was just the right balance of sweet and salty. Janviere loves her fruits - and this just hit all the right spots for her.
Coco Pineapple Ice Cream: And for the final note—this was so yummy. I went from telling Janviere I was so full, UNTIL I tried a bite of the pineapple a icecream together. I somehow ended up devouring the entire thing! I appreciated how the ice-cream wasn't overly sweet. This was the perfect tropical end to a fiery, flavorful meal. My favourite of the two desserts.
A Quick Note on Finding This Gem
A little tip for your visit... The restaurant is located on the lower level of Fairview Mall, tucked in that far corner where all the chic restaurants and cafés are.
Your true landmark is the T&T Supermarket—it’s right across from it. I typed T&T into my Uber and somehow got dropped off upstairs at the Cineplex entrance 😆. So learn from my journey!
Head straight to the lower level T&T, and you'll find this gem.
The Verdict
For anyone in North York (or anywhere, really!) craving something real and transportive, Som Tum Jinda at Fairview Mall is your destination. It’s an investment in your palate and a true taste of Isaan's magic.
Thank You for hosting me, Som Tum Jinda!
With Love & Style,
Betty Lam
Located at:
Fairview Mall - Front of T&T, 1800 Sheppard Ave E, North York, ON M2J 5A7
Sources
Michelin Guide Toronto: For verification of the Bib Gourmand award.
Som Tum Jinda Official Website : For details on locations, menu items, and the story of Jinda.
For Further Reading: The Isaan Story
For the Culinary Context (An easy, beautiful read):
Bon Appétit: An Introduction to Isaan, Thailand’s Most Exciting Regional Cuisine
This really captures the vibe of the food and why it's so different.
For the Cultural & Travel Context:
CNN Travel: Isan: The part of Thailand you've been missing
This gives you a sense of the place, the people, and the landscape that create this cuisine.
For the Deep-Dive History:
Wikipedia: Isan
This is the best one-stop shop for a comprehensive overview of the region's history, its distinct language, and its cultural identity.
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