Je Lek Wild Food and River Fish is a hidden local spot in Chom Thong community that wins over food enthusiasts with its home-roasted dried chilies and daily fresh fish. The shop follows a friendly pricing principle to ensure locals can enjoy its flavors.
In Village 5, Chom Thong Subdistrict, Mueang District, Phitsanulok Province, there is a small wild food restaurant that has become a destination for diners seeking bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Introducing Je Lek Wild Food and River Fish — a restaurant born from the dedication of a former restaurant employee with over 10 years of experience, who turned her dream into a viral success through word of mouth throughout the province.
Je Lek, or Mrs. Sanom Khaosongtham, 54, the owner who personally cooks every dish, revealed that the key to the restaurant’s recognition within just three years is the freshness of ingredients sourced directly from the Nan River’s ecosystem. Since the community is located riverside, locals regularly bring natural-caught fish—such as catfish, climbing perch, giant gourami, and juvenile fish—to the shop daily. These ingredients have a distinctive sweetness and freshness, complemented by homemade curry pastes and a unique roasted dried chili recipe that delivers a fragrant aroma and intensely spicy flavor.
The popular signature dishes not to be missed include clear spicy catfish soup highlighted by the aroma of roasted dried chilies, as well as stir-fried spicy herb dishes, spicy stir-fries, and chewy Thai fish cakes made from fish paste. Je Lek remains committed to setting "affordable" prices so community members can enjoy meals every day.
General made-to-order dishes start at 40 baht, while river fish dishes served with rice are priced between 50 and 60 baht. For dishes served as shared plates, pricing is based on weight, offering good value considering the quality of the natural fish.
Currently, Je Lek Wild Food and River Fish is not only a regular spot for locals but also attracts customers from other districts who travel specifically to savor the carefully prepared flavors crafted by the attentive cook.
For those interested in experiencing boldly flavored, home-style dishes, the shop is open daily from 06:00 to 19:00 at Village 5, Chom Thong Subdistrict, near the Nan River. For more information, call 082-2814179.