ยำส้มโอ (Yam som O) is an interesting dish to say the least. It really has no business being as delicious as it is. I mean how appetizing does a bitter and spicy citrus salad sound? But in a mysterious and glorious way all the strong flavors in the dish seem to coincide in cooperative opposition.

It is essentially a riff on the classic Thai pounded mortar “salad” with pomelo as the main ingredient. This is typically prepared with fermented crab water (naam bu), but I forgot to specify I wanted that to the cook. I highly suggest it’s addition, as it will give the dish a funkier aroma and deep dark color.

Also, as the name would suggest, Laap Kao Cham Chaa also has great laap.

Prices per plate of laap are 40-60 baht, expect to pay 60 or so baht per person.

Laap Kao Cham Chaa

Open: 12:00-21:00 Everyday but Sunday

(Tom Som O)

(Northern style laap)

(Isaan style laap)

The Good Stuff Chiang Mai