Seemor
DakzenBWorth Trying
195 Elm St, Somerville, MA 02144
· Thai restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (1042 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Small Davis Square Thai spot focused on street noodles and rice plates; big flavors, fast service, fair prices, but consistency varies more on delivery than dine-in.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Dakzen delivers solid neighborhood Thai comfort with strong food quality in signature dishes like khao soi and boat noodles, paired with quick, attentive service and excellent value. However, quality variation between dine-in and delivery and tight seating prevent a higher grade—this is reliable casual dining rather than destination-level execution.
Restaurant Summary
In Davis Square, Dakzen feels small and lively, with bright yellow walls and the aroma of wok heat drifting from the kitchen. Service is quick and friendly, and bowls land in minutes. One diner summed it up: "The broth was so good I kept going back for one more spoonful." This is a place for no-fuss comfort more than ceremony. The cooking leans toward Thai street classics rather than fusion—khao soi, boat noodles, and basil rice plates lead the way. Flavors are bold but adjustable with a tidy set of table condiments, and portions match the price. Dine-in shines most; delivery feedback is spikier, with a few misses on noodle texture and chicken dryness, so order accordingly when you cannot eat right away. For families, there are kid-friendly staples like pad thai, pad see ew, and fried rice, and the kitchen keeps spice levels moderate unless asked. Space is tight, but bowls arrive fast and prices are kind. If your crew prefers very plain food, note the menu’s street focus; otherwise, this is an easy win for casual family dinners.
At a Glance
- Khao soi and boat noodles praised for deep, satisfying broths
- Fast, friendly service and good portions for the price
- Delivery/takeout quality varies; dine-in more reliable
- Limited substitutions and some strict no-sub policies
- Expect a small, busy room with short waits at peak times
What Sets It Apart
- northern_thai_specialties_khao_soi
- fast_casual_speed
- cash_discount_reported
What People Love
- Rich, creamy khao soi broth
- Street-food focus beyond the usual suspects
- Speedy service that respects busy schedules
- Honest pricing with hearty bowls
Points of Concern
- Pad thai and some fried noodles receive negative delivery reviews about texture and dryness
- Substitutions are limited; some items marked no substitutions
- Small dining room with peak-time waits and tight seating
- One older shrimp-related illness complaint; no recent cluster but noted by a reviewer
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleHybrid
Average Cost$24-34 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Choose noodle soups for dine-in; they hold heat and texture well
- If you prefer milder spice, start with khao soi and add heat at the table
Perfect For
- A quick, satisfying noodle fix before a movie
- Casual weeknight dinner under $30 per person
- Solo lunches with zero fuss
- Spice lovers who enjoy DIY heat at the table
Location Insights
Area: Bustling student-oriented square with cafes, bars, and indie shops; popular with locals and visitors.
Safety: Generally safe, busy pedestrian area with good foot traffic and lighting.
Nearby: Near Red Line Davis Station, cinemas, music venues, and Tufts-adjacent crowds.
Union SquareUnion Square is a lively and rapidly evolving neighborhood in Somerville known for its eclectic dining scene, featuring a mix of trendy restaurants, casual eateries, and artisanal food shops. The area has a creative, community-oriented vibe with a strong emphasis on local businesses and cultural events, attracting a diverse crowd that values innovation and social engagement.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–15:00, 17:00–21:00
Tuesday11:00–15:00, 17:00–21:00
Wednesday11:00–15:00, 17:00–00:00
Thursday11:00–15:00, 17:00–00:00
Friday11:00–15:00, 17:00–00:00
Saturday12:00–00:00
Sunday12:00–00:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →