Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

Top 10

Destinations Worldwide

Must Visit

Guide to

Eat, Stay & Do

Rio de Janeiro

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

Best Smoothie Bowls

Travel Guide

Koh Kood

Island Escape

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Toronto

Som Tum Jinda is celebrated for its authentic Northeastern Thai cuisine, offering bold flavors and traditional dishes. The restaurant's vibrant decor and friendly staff enhance the dining experience. While some patrons note limited portion sizes, the overall quality and authenticity of the food receive high praise.

Discover Som Tum Jinda: Toronto's Authentic Thai Gem at Gerrard Street East 

Nestled in the heart of Toronto's vibrant Old Toronto neighborhood, Som Tum Jinda offers an immersive journey into the bold flavors of Northeastern Thai cuisine. This cherished restaurant at 76 Gerrard St E beckons food enthusiasts and adventurous palates alike with its authentic dishes and lively atmosphere. Known for its standout specialties such as the Som Tum Mae Jaeb — a green papaya salad bursting with the unique tang of fermented soft shell crab — and the succulent Grilled Pork Jowl, Som Tum Jinda delivers a culinary experience that transports diners straight to Thailand's Isan region.

What Makes Som Tum Jinda a Must-Visit in Toronto

Beyond the remarkable dishes, visitors praise the restaurant’s cozy ambiance and vibrant decor which perfectly complements the rich, spicy flavors of the menu. Whether you're craving the crunchy, tangy Som Tum papaya salad, the crispy rice salad with bold zest, or the smoky and tender pork BBQ, every bite promises a delightful contrast of textures and tastes. The menu also features comforting options like the deeply flavorful Chicken Feet Soup and the uniquely spiced Tub Whan with tender pork liver. Friendly and attentive service enhances the dining experience, making Som Tum Jinda a beloved spot among locals and tourists craving genuine Thai food.

Som Tum Jinda welcomes guests for dine-in with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The restaurant offers both formal seating upstairs and a casual drinking hole downstairs sharing the same menu. With options for takeout and delivery, Thai food lovers can enjoy their favorite dishes wherever they are in Toronto. While outdoor seating and curbside pickup are not available, the convenience of easy online ordering and attentive staff make every visit hassle-free. Paid street parking nearby and acceptance of major payment methods, including NFC and credit cards, add to the seamless dining experience.

Feedback from the vibrant Toronto community consistently reflects a positive sentiment toward Som Tum Jinda. Diners applaud the authenticity of the flavors and the quality of ingredients. The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with friendly service, earns frequent praise. While some guests note the traditionally high spice levels — including a distinctive numbing spice — many recommend ordering with adjusted spice levels to suit individual preferences. The restaurant's no-alcohol policy is noted, with many appreciating the availability of refreshing non-alcoholic beverages from the adjacent café. Seating limitations encourage advance reservations, ensuring a smooth visit.

Frequently Asked Questions about Som Tum Jinda

What are the restaurant's operating hours?

 Som Tum Jinda operates Monday to Thursday from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM, Friday from 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM, Saturday from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

 No, the restaurant does not serve alcohol but offers a variety of non-alcoholic beverages from the adjacent café.

 Yes, due to limited seating, it's advisable to make a reservation in advance to ensure a table.

North America

Canada

Nestled in the heart of Old Toronto, Som Tum Jinda is a vibrant haven for lovers of authentic Thai cuisine. This charming restaurant, located at 76 Gerrard Street East, invites you to embark on a culinary journey that tantalizes the senses. The moment you step inside, the warm ambiance and the aroma of fresh herbs and spices envelop you, setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

At Som Tum Jinda, every dish is a celebration of flavor and tradition. The **Som Tum**, or papaya salad, is a must-try, bursting with refreshing, spicy, and tangy notes that dance on your palate. The addition of crunchy peanuts and dried shrimp elevates the texture, making it a satisfying starter. Another standout is the **Crispy Rice Salad**, a delightful medley of crispy rice and zesty flavors that will surprise and delight your taste buds.

For those seeking heartier fare, the **Pork BBQ** is a standout, featuring tender, well-seasoned meat with a hint of smokiness that leaves you craving more. And if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t miss the **Chicken Feet Soup**, a rich and flavorful broth that offers a comforting embrace with every sip.

What sets Som Tum Jinda apart is not just its food but also its commitment to authenticity. The restaurant prides itself on using traditional recipes and fresh ingredients, ensuring that each dish reflects the true essence of Thai cuisine. A fun fact: the restaurant’s name, Som Tum Jinda, translates to ‘Papaya Salad’ in Thai, emphasizing its signature dish.

Som Tum Jinda is renowned for its authentic Thai dishes, particularly its signature papaya salad.

The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere, attentive service, and a menu filled with bold flavors that transport you straight to Thailand.

Som Tum Jinda offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery options, making it convenient for all types of diners.

Whether you’re a local or a traveler, Som Tum Jinda is a must-visit destination for anyone craving authentic Thai flavors. Gather your friends or family and indulge in a feast that promises to delight your senses. Don’t forget to share your experience and let the world know about this hidden gem in Toronto.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURma3B2ZDRnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJuaYsRATL1IkRXtqca_ikq7k/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURma3B2ZDRnRRAB

I recently visited Som Tum Jinda in Toronto, and it quickly became one of my favorite spots for authentic Thai food, especially for their Som Tum (papaya salad), which is my favorite Thai dish. The Som Tum was absolutely fantastic—refreshing, spicy, and tangy with a perfect balance of flavors. The addition of peanuts and dried shrimp gave it a wonderful texture, making it both satisfying and flavorful.

We also tried the Crispy Rice Salad, which was a delightful surprise. The crispy rice added a wonderful crunch, and the salad was full of bold, zesty flavors. The Pork BBQ was another standout, with tender, well-seasoned meat that had just the right amount of smokiness and char.

The Chicken Feet Soup was rich and flavorful, with a savory broth that had deep, comforting flavors. Lastly, we had the Tub Whan, which had a unique and flavorful taste, with tender pork liver that really absorbed the spices and herbs beautifully.

The service was attentive and friendly, and the cozy atmosphere of the restaurant made it an enjoyable place to dine. The prices were reasonable for the quality of food and the generous portions.

Overall, if you’re a fan of Thai food, Som Tum Jinda is a must-try. With their delicious and authentic dishes, it’s definitely a place I’ll be returning to for more of my favorite Thai flavors.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURudXZPTDRRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJuaYsRATL1IkRXtqca_ikq7k/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURudXZPTDRRRRAB

Delicious Thai food with authentic flavours. Definitely need to get one of the papaya salads, it’s the star of the show. Fried frog legs were also delicious. Soups were hearty and very flavorful. Med spicy was great for us. Also have some nice desserts with coconut ice cream and pandan jelly. Mango sticky rice was a little too rich for us at this location.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmZ1pIODlRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJuaYsRATL1IkRXtqca_ikq7k/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmZ1pIODlRRRAB

Great atmosphere and well balanced flavours but the two major flaws are the service time and the spice level of the food. We had to wait super long after getting the menus to have our order taken, super long after we finished our meals to order dessert and long after we finished dessert to pay our bills. The other issue was that this food is crazy spicy. I generally have a high spice tolerance and so do my friends, however the type of spice in this food is a numbing flavour so we lost a bit of enjoyment of the food. I understand that this is most likely the traditional way to prepare the food but I can’t recommend it in spite of that. I would recommend ordering the dishes here with no spice because they are very high quality. The pork jowel particularly was amazing

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2MHREQmR3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJuaYsRATL1IkRXtqca_ikq7k/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2MHREQmR3EAE

Authentic Thai, reasonably priced. Best I’ve had outside Thailand. Upfront about 18% gratuity for 6+ people and 90 minute dine in policy. Friendly attentive staff. More formal seating upstairs, casual drinking hole downstairs, share the same menu. Great spot!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYa1B1b1RnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJuaYsRATL1IkRXtqca_ikq7k/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYa1B1b1RnEAE

A lovely restaurant that offers a dopamine boost with the first bite of its food. The taste brings me to Thailand with their strong, delicious, and rich spices. I haven't had the chance to try all the other dishes, but I believe they’re great! The service is excellent!

Authentic Thai Cuisine at Som Tum Jinda, Toronto

Som Tum Jinda, established in June 2023, brings authentic Northeastern Thai cuisine to Toronto. Chef-owner Jinda Witthayarak, renowned for her Som Tum dishes, opened this location to share her culinary heritage with the city.

The History Of Som Tum Jinda in Toronto Is A Culinary Journey Through Thailand's Northeastern Flavors.

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Old Toronto at 76 Gerrard Street E, Som Tum Jinda is not just a restaurant; it's a journey into the heart of Northeastern Thai cuisine. Specializing in the iconic Som Tum, or papaya salad, this eatery has quickly gained a reputation as a go-to destination for authentic Thai flavors in Canada. The original location in Thailand has received prestigious recognition, including a Michelin Bib Gourmand, a testament to its commitment to quality and authenticity.

Timeline Of Notable Events In The History Of Som Tum Jinda

2023: Som Tum Jinda opened its Toronto location on Gerrard Street East.

2023: The Toronto location was recognized by the Michelin Guide.

Since its opening in 2023, Som Tum Jinda has become a cherished spot for food enthusiasts in Toronto, offering diners a taste of the rich culinary heritage of Thailand. The ambiance combines traditional Thai decor with a modern twist, creating a welcoming space that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Thailand. Each dish is crafted with precision, showcasing the bold and intricate flavors characteristic of Northeastern Thai cooking.

As you venture into Som Tum Jinda, you will be welcomed by the aromas of fresh herbs and spices. The restaurant prides itself on using authentic ingredients, ensuring that each bite resonates with the true spirit of Thai cuisine. Whether you're a long-time lover of Thai food or a curious newcomer, this dining experience promises to be unforgettable. The recent recognition by the Michelin Guide only cements its status as one of Toronto's culinary gems.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Good for Groups

Serves Beer

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Som Tum Jinda is a vibrant Thai restaurant located in Old Toronto, known for its authentic dishes and warm ambiance. The menu features a variety of flavorful options, including the famous som tum salad, curries, and grilled seafood, all crafted with fresh ingredients.

Som Tum Jinda

Authentic Northeastern Thai cuisine featuring bold flavors and traditional dishes.

Som Tum Mae Jaeb

Pad See Ew

Chicken Panang Curry

Fried Frog Legs

Mango Sticky Rice

Som Tum Jinda Menu

som tum jinda menu overview and delights in toronto canada 

Nestled in the heart of Toronto, Som Tum Jinda offers an unforgettable journey into the vibrant world of authentic Northeastern Thai cuisine. Known for its bold flavors and traditional dishes, this menu brings the essence of Thailand to your table with a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory tastes.

Dive into refreshing and zesty starters that set the tone for an authentic Thai dining experience. The signature Som Tum Mae Jaeb combines green papaya with fermented soft shell crab, peanuts, dried shrimp, chili, tomato, and green bean, crafting a dish bursting with texture and flavor. Alternatively, opt for the Som Tum Tod, a crispy fried papaya salad that adds crunch to the traditional mix of peanuts and chili. For seafood lovers, the Papaya Salad with Salmon offers a smoky twist, while the Papaya Salad with Salted Crab delivers bold, briny notes that excite the taste buds.

The main courses showcase expertly grilled and seasoned dishes that highlight the essence of Northeastern Thailand. The Kor Moo Yang features tender grilled pork jowl enhanced with a harmonious blend of herbs and spices, delivering a smoky, succulent experience. For noodle enthusiasts, the Pad See Ew with Beef pairs wide rice noodles with juicy beef, garlic, egg, and soy sauce for a comforting yet flavorful plate. The Nam Tok Kor Moo and Grilled Pork Jowl Salad both spotlight grilled pork jowl tossed with fresh herbs, spices, lime juice, and chili powder, offering a tantalizing balance of heat and zest.

Conclude your meal with the classic Sticky Rice with Mango, a beloved Thai dessert featuring glutinous sticky rice delicately infused with coconut milk and paired with ripe, juicy mango slices. This dish provides a creamy and sweet contrast to the bold and spicy flavors of the meal, leaving a lasting impression.

To enhance your dining experience, Som Tum Jinda offers a selection of refreshing drinks including coffee and beer, perfectly suited to cool down the palate after indulging in the restaurant’s famously spicy dishes. While the menu focuses on traditional flavors, keep an eye out for specials that showcase seasonal ingredients and chef’s inspirations, promising new twists on classic Thai favorites.

 Som Tum Mae Jaeb, Som Tum Tod, Papaya Salad with Salted Crab, Papaya Salad with Salmon.

 Kor Moo Yang, Pad See Ew with Beef, Nam Tok Kor Moo, Grilled Pork Jowl Salad.

Savor authentic Thai cuisine at Som Tum Jinda in Toronto's vibrant Old Town. Experience bold flavors and a welcoming atmosphere—book your table now!

Som Tum Jinda: Authentic Thai Cuisine in Toronto

Toronto Municipality

Experience traditional dishes from Thailand's Isan region, including Som Tum (papaya salad) and Larb (spicy minced meat salad).

Authentic Northeastern Thai Cuisine

Available for private events and catering with customized menus.

Catering Services

Discover authentic isan-style thai cuisine at som tum jinda in toronto's old town district.

Nestled at 76 Gerrard Street East in the vibrant heart of Toronto, Som Tum Jinda brings the zesty and bold flavors of Thailand's Northeastern Isan region straight to Canada. This cozy restaurant is renowned for its 

, especially its masterful selection of som tum (papaya salad) variations that perfectly balance spicy, tangy, and savory notes. Food lovers and adventurous eaters alike will find themselves enchanted by the vibrant dishes that echo Thailand's rich culinary heritage.

signature dishes that capture authentic thai flavors

Som Tum Jinda's menu is a treasure trove of regional specialties. The standout 

 is succulent and expertly seasoned with herbs and spices, delivering a smoky depth of flavor that keeps diners coming back for more. Another must-try is the 

, a tangy and unique dish that perfectly showcases the boldness of Isan cuisine with fresh green papaya and the distinctive salted crab flavor.

an inviting atmosphere with thoughtful dining options

At Som Tum Jinda, diners enjoy a warm and intimate setting that captures the essence of Thai hospitality. The restaurant offers dine-in service with a friendly, attentive staff eager to guide guests through the menu. While it does not serve alcohol, patrons can enjoy a curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages from the adjacent café, perfectly complementing the vibrant flavors on the plate. With reasonable prices and generous portions, this spot is perfect for casual lunches, cozy dinners, or group gatherings.

 with a spotlight on som tum variations packed with fresh, spicy, and tangy flavors.

 seasoned with herbs and spices for a smoky, tender bite.

 for a uniquely tangy and satisfying experience.

 with a variety of non-alcoholic drinks from the nearby café.

Som Tum Jinda Toronto authentic thai dining experience overview 

Nestled in the heart of Toronto on Gerrard Street East, Som Tum Jinda stands out as a vibrant gem for lovers of authentic Northeastern Thai cuisine. Renowned for its colorful decor and genuinely warm service, this restaurant offers a dining experience that transports you straight to Thailand’s rich culinary traditions. The menu features unique dishes rarely found in typical Thai eateries, inviting food enthusiasts to explore bold and exciting flavors.

Exceptional dishes and welcoming atmosphere

Som Tum Jinda's menu is a treasure trove of authentic flavors, especially prized for its signature papaya salad, which perfectly balances refreshment, spice, and tanginess. Alongside this, diners rave about the crispy rice salad and tender pork BBQ, each dish delivering satisfying textures and vibrant tastes. The kitchen also serves hearty soups and distinctive specialties like Tub Whan, showcasing tender pork liver infused with fragrant spices.

The restaurant’s ambiance blends cozy comfort with vivid, colorful interiors, creating a lively yet inviting setting. Service is consistently noted as friendly and attentive, enhancing the overall dining experience. Whether enjoying lunch or dinner, guests appreciate the reasonable prices and generous portions that make Som Tum Jinda an excellent value.

While Som Tum Jinda offers a remarkable Thai culinary experience, potential guests should be aware of a few considerations. The restaurant has limited seating, so making a reservation is highly recommended to avoid long waits. Although the establishment serves a variety of non-alcoholic beverages, it does not offer alcohol on the premises, which might be a factor for those wanting a drink with their meal. Additionally, some patrons have noted that portion sizes here can be smaller compared to other Thai restaurants, so planning accordingly might enhance your visit.

: Authentic Northeastern Thai cuisine, vibrant decor, friendly service, unique dishes, and a variety of non-alcoholic beverages.

: Limited seating with recommended reservations, no alcohol served, and some reports of smaller portion sizes compared to other Thai venues.

In summary, Som Tum Jinda is a must-visit for fans of traditional Thai flavors who appreciate a cozy, authentic atmosphere infused with local charm. The blend of bold dishes and attentive service makes it a standout choice in Toronto’s culinary scene, while awareness of its seating and menu nuances will help you fully enjoy your experience.

Dive into authentic Northeastern Thai cuisine at Som Tum Jinda, Toronto! Enjoy our famous Som Tum papaya salad and grilled pork jowl. Book now!

Som Tum Jinda - Authentic Thai Experience in Toronto

Discover Som Tum Jinda in Toronto for a unique Thai dining experience! Savor exquisite flavors and friendly service. Reserve your table today!

Explore Toronto’s Gem: Som Tum Jinda Restaurant

Uncover tips and highlights for your visit to Som Tum Jinda. From must-try dishes to reservation advice, enhance your dining experience in Toronto!

Authentic Thai Cuisine at Som Tum Jinda, Toronto

Dining & Culinary Delights

Signature Highlights

FAQs

Visit us today!

Souper Hot Pot