From The San Francisco Standard · · 1m 10s
Saam SF: Thai restaurant review
Saam's high prices and underwhelming dishes disappoint despite Michelin-starred chef's pedigree.
In brief
Saam's high prices and underwhelming dishes disappoint despite Michelin-starred chef's pedigree. Saam, a SoMa Thai restaurant by Bangkok chef Ton Tassanakajohn, has high prices and disappointing dishes despite Michelin-starred restaurants in Bangkok. Originally reported by The San Francisco Standard.
Saam opens in SoMa
Saam, a new Thai restaurant in SoMa, opened three months ago with big ambitions.
Chef Ton Tassanakajohn
Executive chef Thitid "Ton" Tassanakajohn operates two Michelin-starred restaurants in Bangkok.
Tuna za jin dish
The tuna za jin, four chunks of yellow tomato with crispy shallots and coriander sauce, was underwhelming.
Muek nam dam
Muek nam dam, a garlicky squid-ink bowl, fared better than the tuna za jin.
Gaeng khack yawa
Gaeng khack yawa, an underseasoned Javanese beef curry, had overcooked beef.
High prices
Dinner costs $39 for squid noodles and $68 for beef curry, pushing the limits of value.
Room design
Saam has an earth-toned interior with dried herbs arranged like an altar.
Comparison to Bangkok
Saam's menu differs from Bangkok restaurants, with fewer rice dishes and curry options.
Conclusion
Saam is best enjoyed as part of a compare-and-contrast survey of San Francisco's Thai scene.
What it means
Saam, a SoMa Thai restaurant by Bangkok chef Ton Tassanakajohn, has high prices and disappointing dishes despite Michelin-starred restaurants in Bangkok.
