Restaurant

Somtum Thai

124 Cuba Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

Recommended by 31 people

Updated

Find Somtum Thai

124 Cuba Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

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HoursMonday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 4:30 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 4:30 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 4:30 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 4:30 – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 4:30 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 4:30 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 4:30 – 9:00 PM

*Opening hours may differ during holidays.

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About Somtum Thai

Right on Cuba Street, Somtum Thai turns out uncompromised Thai street dishes that do not tone down the chili heat for timid palates. Wellington spice hunters learn quickly—ordering a medium here lands with real, fiery bite. Crowds cram the tight tables for chicken laab, grilled moo ping skewers, and wok-tossed pad kra-pao topped with a crisp fried egg. The daily specials board frequently rotates in regional plates like Lao-style papaya salad, while flaky curry puffs arrive beside dishes of house chili oil. Portions remain generous enough to share across the table, served hot and fast right out of the blazing kitchen.

  • Uncompromised Heat: Dishes are prepared with authentic heat levels that are not scaled down for mild palates.
  • Rotating Blackboard Specials: The kitchen posts daily specials on the board, including Lao-style papaya salad and regional regional plates.
  • Generous Portions: Substantial serving sizes allow easy sharing, with flexible protein and vegetable add-ons.

What's On at Somtum Thai

Upcoming events, special menus and other reasons to plan a visit.

No events or specials listed right now.

Why Choose Somtum Thai

Authentic street food recipes, legitimate Thai heat levels, and soul-warming Cuba Street dining.

  • Uncompromising Traditional Heat Levels

    The kitchen prepares authentic Thai street classics with uncompromising, genuine heat levels that remain true to traditional recipes rather than adapting down.

    They’re definitely not down-scaled to typical Kiwi tolerance. I’d usually order hot elsewhere, but medium here is more than enough!

    Isabella Clague
  • Rotating Regional Menu Specials

    Daily board specials rotate to highlight regional Thai street favorites rarely featured on standard takeaway menus, such as authentic Lao-style papaya salad.

    Each day they have a different special menu so check it up on the board if you would like to try something new.

    Merry W.
  • Nostalgic Connection to Bangkok Street Eats

    Diners experience the comforting familiarity of genuine Southeast Asian homestyle cooking that captures the original flavors of street stalls in Thailand.

    Nothing fancy, but it reminds me of the small Thai restaurants in busy Sukhumvit road in Bankgok.

    Sophie Hazelman
  • Soul-Warming Comfort on Cold Evenings

    Satisfying, hearty meals deliver genuine warmth and relaxation after stepping in from chilly Wellington weather.

    Came here on a cold night on the hunt for some soul warming food and it totally hit the spot.

    Nikita
  • Cosy Retreat for Wellington Weather

    Hearty, aromatic curries and noodle dishes provide the perfect refuge to refuel on cold Wellington nights along Cuba Street.

    It was so warm and inviting and the menu had loads of enticing options, and the waiter had some great recommendations aswell.

    Nikita
  • Generous Portions Built for Sharing

    Large, shareable dishes and customisable protein add-ons offer exceptional value for group dinners and paired dining.

    Great portion size for sharing and prices was not very expensive.

    Roy Wee (Panda)

Other favorites

Authentic starters and appetizers to begin your street-style feast

  • Moo Ping

    the pork skewers were grilled perfectly, so tender and the sweet umami marination was on point

    Nikita
  • Curry Puff

    Curry puff is amazing of it taste and pastry is a perfect balance.

    amber Liu
  • Fish Cakes

    Fish cakes were great

    Luke Dienes
  • Roti with Satay Sauce

    The roti was so flaky and light

    Nikita

Before you head over

Practical dining tips to help you get the most out of your visit to Somtum Thai.

  • Calibrate Your Heat Level Carefully

    Spice levels reflect authentic Thai preparation rather than softened local expectations; if you prefer moderate heat, consider starting at medium or mild before ordering Thai hot.

  • Reserve a Table Ahead of Time

    The dining room is cosy and fills quickly during peak dinner and weekend hours, so making an advance reservation guarantees you a table without a wait.

  • Check the In-House Specials Board

    Look out for the daily board in the restaurant to explore rotating regional specialties and unique street-style dishes outside the core menu.

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