Samata - Chiang Mai

My partner and I had lunch at this restaurant. The menu was limited, so we both opted for the curry bowl with toppings of our choice. Despite the pictures on the menu showing chickpeas, pumpkin, corn, colorful sweet potatoes, and other items not listed on the chalkboard that day, we enjoyed complimentary table water as we waited and took in the cool atmosphere of the converted plastic building. I did notice a concerning number of ants in the dining area and kitchen, but it did not seem to affect our dining experience. The curry bowls came with a small cup of salty but delicious broth. The toppings were prepared well, either steamed or fried, but lacked flavor, which was made up for by the tasty curry mix on the rice. Sadly, it was difficult to mix the large vegetable pieces into the curry properly. Despite this, the meal was filling and healthy, and for 85 baht each, it was not bad.

The restaurant offers new dishes such as fried rice and summer rolls with Japanese spices. It is a vegan restaurant with healthy whole food dishes, sides, and a variety of drinks. Fans of the High Carb Low Fat diet will be pleased to know that they can choose oil-free toppings. The food is easy to eat and delicious, with the option to add seasoned sauces for extra flavor. The prices are very affordable for a vegan restaurant. It should be noted that there is no air conditioning, but there is an open area with fans and protection from rain. The restaurant has an interesting design made from recycled materials and is environmentally friendly, as they do not use disposable plastic. It would be nice to have the option of brown rice or rice berry, but overall the lack of alternatives in the area makes this restaurant deserving of a 5-star rating. (Updated on 2019-09-24)

I recently visited a newly opened cafe near my home in the Nimman area, where finding affordable Vegan options can be a challenge. I was excited to try Samata, as it has a charming atmosphere with recycled furniture and an adorable cat. Unfortunately, I was disappointed with the food. I ordered a "select your own" curry bowl, which consisted mainly of rice, a small amount of lentil curry, and fried or battered toppings. The lack of fresh vegetable options was disappointing, although I did enjoy the baked pumpkin and sweetcorn. On the bright side, they offer free filtered water.

I had the rainbow bowl and it was a good mix of curry, steamed veg and crunch from the tempura. Only downside is the bowls are made with white rice so lack the substance brown would add. This is why I only gave 4 stars and not 5. Good to have something different from the other options in town.

What a hidden gem! It’s a little difficult to find at first (on a side street behind Maya Mall), but worth it! The owner, Ribbon, is so friendly and warm, the cafe is mostly outdoors and really cozy. And the CURRY BOWLS are amazing. So cheap, and so filling. Lovely place to grab some food or spend a few hours. Definitely check this place out if you’re in Chiang Mai!