🌶️🌶️🌶️ Sharing & Pairing with Spicy Thai Cuisine | An Issan Wine Room Experience
Issan Wine Room is a true homage to authentic Thai flavors, where the dishes speak the culinary language of the Issan region in every bite. Chef Pamika, born and raised in Issan, brings her deep-rooted heritage to life with simple, locally sourced ingredients that honor tradition while embracing the spirit of communal dining.
This isn’t your Westernized take on Thai, it’s the real deal, with bold spices and lots of pepper that pack the kind of heat that true Thai food lovers crave. Every plate is designed to be shared, fostering a sense of connection that turns every meal into a celebration of flavors and friendships. Some dishes are spicier than others, so a good idea is to ask the wait staff to guide you.
The menu is a carefully crafted exploration of Issan’s vibrant cuisine, showcasing dishes that embody the essence of the region. One standout on the menu is the Fermented Pork and Crispy Rice Salad (ยำแหนมข้าวทอด). This dish is a perfect balance of textures and flavors, featuring fried fermented pork, crispy jasmine rice, and a bold red curry paste, all enhanced by lime leaf, fresh ginger, egg, and a finishing hit of chili and peanuts for crunch. It’s rich, savory, and tangy with just the right amount of heat—everything a standout Issan dish should be. Their takes on classics like the green papaya salad and their house-made kimchi are also refreshingly unique, with generous chunks of garlic and fresh basil that add an unexpected depth to these familiar dishes.
What makes Issan Wine Room exceptional isn’t just the authenticity of the food but its thoughtful approach to pairing. The wine selection isn’t an afterthought—it’s an integral part of the experience. Each wine is carefully chosen to elevate and balance the intensity of the dishes. Whether you’re drawn to a crisp Albariño to tame the fire of a spicy Pad Kra Pao or a fruit-forward Pinot Noir to complement a rich Massaman curry, the pairings feel intuitive and sophisticated, enhancing the communal dining experience without overshadowing the cuisine’s bold identity. They also allow you to enjoy some undiscovered private imports.
Everything You Should Know: Issan Wine Room is more than a restaurant—it’s a culinary journey into the heart of Thai culture. The setting is intimate yet lively, making it ideal for both casual meet-ups and special occasions. The spice levels are authentically Thai, so brace yourself for a thrilling heat that stays true to tradition. Sharing is the name of the game, so come ready to explore and pass plates around the table. And don’t worry—the knowledgeable staff is always on hand to guide your pairings, ensuring your dining experience is as seamless as it is unforgettable. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or a Thai food enthusiast, Issan Wine Room will leave you craving more of its perfectly crafted balance of heat, flavor, and conviviality.
Here is what you need to know about Issan Wine Room
Location: 133 Avenue Fairmount O, Montréal, QC H2T 2M6
Reservations: Recommended, especially for weekends – via their website or by phone
Facebook: @issanwineroom
Instagram: @issanwineroom
Website: issanwineroom.com
Bring your appetite, your spice-loving friends, and an open mind—you’re in for a memorable Thai sharing and pairing experience. And afterwards, looking for outdoor fun? We got you covered with Igloofest 2025!
