Northern Thai offerings and more at Siam Social in Noordin Street

Thanks to Nazlina Hussin, I had the opportunity to attend an intimate food tasting session at Siam Social, a stylish new restaurant and bar on Noordin Street. We were welcomed by Calvin Lim, a former banker who has transitioned into the restaurant scene with a creative flair for interior design and a thoughtful appreciation for good food. The menu offers an interesting mix of Western fare infused with Northern Thai influences, including items ranging from pastas and pizzas to more regionally inspired dishes. To make selection easier, the menu also includes set items for both individuals and groups.

The spaces Calvin designed at 73 Noordin Street reflect a clean, contemporary style. High white timber ceilings, earthy tones, interesting artworks and subtle greenery come together to create a calm and inviting dining atmosphere. There is even a pool beside the bar on the ground floor, adding a unique touch to the setting. Upstairs, a tapas bar and flexible spaces cater to events and private functions.

Here are some of the dishes we sampled during the session. We began with the Siam Social Rojak (RM22++), a local-style salad of fresh fruits and vegetables, served with a special Thai sauce on the side. It was topped with crushed peanuts, roasted sesame seeds and cashew nuts for added texture and flavour.

Next was the Pad Kaprao Roast Pork Set (RM32++) – wok-fried roast pork with Thai basil, garlic and chillies. It was served with steamed white rice, a bull’s eye egg and a house-made chilli lime sauce on the side.

The Crispy Green Papaya Somtum (RM28++) put a unique spin on the traditional Thai salad. Thin strands of green papaya were deep-fried to a crisp and served with a zesty chilli sauce, which included crushed peanuts and bird's eye chillies for an added fiery kick.

The Jumbo Snack Platter (RM68++) – a combination of truffle fries, golden chicken wings tossed in umami-rich fish sauce glaze, crispy pork belly and a side of garden greens.

The Barbeque Chicken (RM38++) – charcoal-flamed Thai-style barbecue chicken served with steamed rice, fresh herbs and two dipping sauces to complement the smoky flavours.

The Siam Social Thai Grilled Fish (RM55++) – sea bass grilled over banana leaves, topped with a house-made sambal, chillies and onions. It was served with three dipping sauces, each adding a unique layer of flavour.

The Siam Social Chilli Padi Pizza (RM48++) featured Nazlina’s special pizza dough recipe, which provided a perfect crisp and flavourful base. The signature pizza was topped with mushrooms, capsicum, cheeses and fiery chilli padi, giving it a bold kick. In the left photograph, Nazlina is pictured with two of her well-trained apprentices at the restaurant, proudly showcasing their pizza creation. With many more intriguing items on the menu, including tempting desserts, Siam Social offers plenty to explore.

What makes Siam Social’s offerings even more authentic is the connection to its roots. Calvin’s brother runs 1000 Stars, a boutique glamping retreat and café nestled in the forests of Chiang Rai’s Doi Pui mountains, overlooking the Huai Sak reservoir. To ensure the authenticity of the dishes at Siam Social, he sent his chef to Penang to train the team. This dedication to maintaining the integrity of Northern Thai cuisine further elevates the dining experience.

Siam Social also has a full bar offering a selection of cocktails, wines and beers. Diners can choose to relax at the poolside bar on the ground floor or enjoy the cosy atmosphere upstairs, a tapas bar where a wall of vinyl records adds a unique touch to the setting. The restaurant is open until 1 am, making it ideal for late-night dining and drinks in George Town.

A big thank you to Calvin and Nazlina for the opportunity to experience Siam Social. The food and space were both charming and I look forward to returning with friends to sample even more of the intriguing modern Thai offerings.

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Written and photographed by Adrian Cheah
© All rights reserved
24 April 2025

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Siam Social Penang
73, Lebuh Noordin, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
T: +6014-620 5244
Open daily 10 am–1:00 am daily except Wednesdays

There is ample parking available right next door to the restaurant and across the street, making it convenient for diners.