If a restaurant earns recognition as one of the best Thai spots in the city   it’s undoubtedly doing something right. And the team behind Som Tum Jinda is proving this once again with the recent opening of Crying Tiger.
Located near Toronto Metropolitan University, at Church and Gerrard, the new Thai spot, is just a short stroll away from Som Tum Jinda, up the stairs and over one complex. Opened at the beginning of May, the eatery is currently serving dishes from the beloved Som Tum Jinda menu like grilled Northern Thai pork sausage, fried papaya salad, mango coconut sticky rice, Thai iced tea and more — while also having plans to explore Thai cuisine in new and innovative ways.
Though Crying Tiger’s unique menu is currently in the works, the restaurant’s Instagram page promises “a Thai food adventure.”
Whatever delicacies Crying Tiger ultimately decides to serve up, they’ll be served in a different vibe than Som Tum Jinda offers. Custom, handmade lanterns, designed by artist Aoe Girard, hang from the ceiling and offer a dim, romantic and calming glow and are surrounded by exposed brick walls, modern interiors and more artwork. It’s a small, cozy space that feels perfect for romantic nights out and catch-ups with friends.
Som Tum Jinda dreamed up by chef/owner Jinda has been quietly building a dedicated fanbase, growing to become wildly successful and popular. The restaurant comes Michelin-recommended from its home in Thailand, earning Bib Gourmand recognition in both 2023 and 2024. The restaurant has earned high praise since it opened. Chef Anna Chen recently told us that if  the restaurant was closer to the west end, she would order it at least once a week and praised it for its affordability. “You can totally get a delicious meal under $50, and you wont be leaving hungry,” she said.
Crying Tiger is  located at 74 Gerrard St. E., and is  open for dinner daily from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.