Somsamai Styles - Hilo

Unexpected Thai cuisine in Hilo! If it weren't for the glowing reviews from others, we might have missed this gem. It truly is a hidden treasure that deserves its high ratings. The food was made fresh by a lovely elderly woman as soon as we placed our order. We tried the fresh rolls, pad Thai, papaya salad, and a soup, and everything was fantastic. Our favorite was definitely the pad Thai (though our photo doesn’t do it justice). If you’re in Hilo, you have to check it out! If you found this review helpful, please let us know how. Thank you!

Wonderful establishment! Somsamai, the charming Thai lady who owns and runs the place, truly embodies its heart and soul. There’s something unique about placing your order and hearing the sounds of the mortar and pestle coming from the kitchen. We tried the pad thai, papaya salad, and butternut squash curry, and everything was outstanding. I would gladly come back every day!

I was so moved by the curry that I contemplated trying something I’ve never done before. It was a cold, rainy day, and I had a craving for curry. Although I initially wanted a different dish, someone mentioned the pumpkin curry was excellent, so I decided to go for it. I wasn't even sure if the restaurant was open since it was past 2:30, but it turned out to be welcoming. Interestingly, my friend’s watch showed 2:25—thank goodness for that slow watch! The curry was fantastic, and my friend enjoyed her salad as well. On top of that, the restroom was clean, which is a refreshing change compared to the compost toilet at our accommodation, so I really appreciated that.

I went to work all the country. One thing I wanted for Everywhere I Go is great Thai food. I can honestly say that this place has the best Panang Curry I've ever had. The Tom kha soup is also amazing. The woman who leads this place works the entire institution itself. She prepares every meal One Plate at a time and does this with a smile on her face that makes you happy to be there.

Fantastic traditional tasty Thai food. One woman operation and she clearly loves cooking. As spicy as you want! I had the butternut squash which was delicious.