Thai Restaurant Isan

Tucked away in a quiet alleyway just off the retro "Hisago-dori Shopping Street" in Asakusa 2-chome, Thai Restaurant Isan is an authentic local diner. It gained widespread recognition after being featured on the popular Japanese gourmet drama Kodoku no Gurume (Season 8, Episode 6). Run by a husband-and-wife team—with the wife handling the kitchen and the husband offering warm, friendly service—the shop is a down-to-earth, native Thai eatery filled with raw, buzzing local energy.

Thailand's northeastern Isan region is highly celebrated within the country for its distinctively spicy and deeply savory rustic cuisine. This restaurant brings those bold, dynamic flavors to life, utilizing a generous amount of fresh lemongrass, mint, and cilantro. While reproducing authentic recipes, the kitchen is also incredibly accommodating—if you want to experience real Thai food but prefer less heat, they will kindly adjust the spice levels upon request, letting you focus entirely on the fresh, herbal aromas and rich umami.

Guests can try the very dishes enjoyed by the show's protagonist, such as "Chim Chum" (a traditional Thai clay-pot herb soup) and "Nam Tok Moo" (a zesty grilled pork salad), alongside street food staples like Gaprao Rice, Pad Thai, and the rich, creamy Poo Pad Pong Curry (yellow curry crab with egg). Located just slightly away from the main bustling tourist hub of Asakusa, this hidden gem offers a warm and delicious culinary getaway to Thailand.