Despite its proximity to the backpacker mecca of Khao San Road, Soi Samsen’s free-spirited, Bohemian vibe jives perfectly with what 7-month old Chomp Café brings: wholesome food, alternative art, jujitsu classes and poetry sessions.
Over on “this side of the bridge,” or what locals just call the Samsen neighborhood, Chomp serves up a menu of comfort food which South African owner/proprietor Gili describes as “food that you can come in wearing whatever and eat and enjoy yourself.”
But while the food is top-notch, it’s the idea of creating a space that brings people together through the arts – and of course interesting cocktails help.
The crowd is an eclectic mix. With the U.N. offices nearby, there are plenty of Western regulars and stray backpackers in search of something interesting. Chomp’s co-owner and chef, Khun Aey, is a longtime resident of the area and has plenty of friends popping in as well.
The menu doesn’t claim to be “organic” because Gili worries that may scare some people away. However careful decisions are made in order to make the menu more sustainable, like using barramundi (THB260THB) – a plentiful, native fish – instead of other popular species like the ecologically taboo Chilean seabass. Barramundi is similar to grouper and snapper with flaky white meat and a mild taste, although certain types are also endangered. Chomp also makes their own bread, sources hydroponic lettuce and uses repurposed teakwood throughout the interior. Although it isn’t broadcast or humble-bragged, it’s clear this is a green operation. It’s the kind of place one might want to ride a bike to and hang out with a good book.
That doesn’t mean they don’t serve up some heavy-hitters, however. The Big 3B burger (THB270) is almost inedible – two patties, a double dose of bacon, more cheese than normal and all slathered in barbecue sauce. There are also a few sundried tomatoes thrown in there for good measure. Another dish that will make you want to hit the gym is the smoked salmon pasta (THB270): a bowl of pasta in a rich, creamy parmesan sauce with a generous portion of lox buried between the layers of creaminess.
An ample selection of lighter fare is available in the form of “chompwhiches,” an array of sandwiches and wraps that deliver some serious value. Try the bacon and feta (THB140) or the meat lover’s (THB160) for something a little heartier. Or go for the roasted peppers and cream cheese (THB120) or Greek Delight (THB140) if you’re feeling health-aware.
In an interesting twist Chomp also has a section of their menu dedicated to babies. Hungry babies that is – not a hunger for babies, sorry.
Because it’s crucial babies eat healthily during the early years, Chomp’s baby food ain’t machined Gerber mush but gourmet baby food such as green beans puréed with mint (THB40), pumpkins mashed with peppers (THB50) and mashed mango and coconuts (THB50). Chomp designs these foods for youngsters between 1- to 10-months-old and doesn’t add any salt, sugar or preservatives.
Above the restaurant is a second-floor space that’s used for all sort of eccentric purposes, the most pedestrian of which are art and photography shows. Brazilian jiu-jitsu training classes are held there, as are yoga classes and poetry readings. Keep track of the happenings on their Facebook page.
Photos: Richard Marks
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