Laos is a country that will surprise you, especially when it comes to its food scene. It’s a place where traditional recipes mix with fresh ingredients, and where the local cuisine is always full of interesting flavors. If you love discovering a country through its food, Laos will deliver in spades.
From flavorful noodle soups to tasty grilled meats, this guide will help you explore the best dishes in Laos, as well as point you to some great places to try them. Whether you are wandering the streets of Vientiane or relaxing by the Mekong in Luang Prabang, get ready for a culinary adventure.
Traditional Lao Dishes You Must Try
Larb (Laap)
Larb is considered the national dish of Laos, and for good reason. It’s a minced meat salad that can be made with pork, chicken, beef, duck, or even fish. The meat is mixed with herbs, onions, lime juice, and toasted rice powder, giving it a refreshing and savory kick.
You can find larb pretty much anywhere in Laos, from street stalls to restaurants. For an authentic experience, try it with sticky rice on the side. Locals will often eat it with their hands, pinching the rice and salad together.
Sticky Rice (Khao Niew)
Speaking of sticky rice—it’s everywhere in Laos. Khao niew is the staple food in the country, and no meal is complete without it. You’ll find locals eating it morning, noon, and night.
The sticky rice is steamed in a bamboo basket, giving it a slightly sweet, nutty flavor. In most restaurants, you’ll be served a small basket of sticky rice to go with your main dishes. It pairs well with just about everything.
Tam Mak Hoong (Papaya Salad)
While this green papaya salad might sound familiar if you’ve tried Thai food before, the Lao version is a spicier, fishier affair. Tam Mak Hoong is typically made with shredded green papaya, chili, lime, garlic, peanuts, fermented fish sauce, and sugar. It’s crunchy, spicy, and sour at the same time.
You’ll find this dish in markets and street stalls. Beware: when locals ask how spicy you want it, they mean business. Lao people have an incredibly high spice tolerance, so start ‘mild’ and work your way up!
Street Foods to Savor
Khao Jee (Lao Baguette)
Thanks to French colonial influence, baguettes are pretty common in Laos. Khao Jee is the Lao take on a sandwich, often filled with meats like pork, pâté, fresh vegetables, and a dash of chili sauce. Think of it like a Lao-style banh mi, except with a spicier touch.
These sandwiches are easy to find at street stalls and markets in major cities like Vientiane and Luang Prabang. They’re cheap, filling, and perfect for a snack on the go.
Khao Piak Sen
Known as the Lao version of pho, Khao Piak Sen is a hearty noodle soup made with rice noodles, meat (usually chicken or pork), and a flavorful broth. The texture of the noodles is thicker and chewy compared to pho, and the soup is usually topped with fresh herbs and lime.
This is a popular breakfast dish, often found in morning markets or small local eateries. It’s a great way to start your day in Laos with a warm, comforting bowl of goodness.
Sai Oua (Lao Sausage)
Lao sausage, or Sai Oua, is a fermented pork sausage packed with lemongrass, galangal, and herbs. It’s fatty, a little salty, and full of flavor. You’ll see them grilling on the streets, sending delicious smells through the air. A must-try if you’re a fan of grilled meats.
Order some as a snack or a side dish, usually paired with sticky rice and some spicy dipping sauce. It’s a simple pleasure that’s packed with flavor.
Top Restaurants to Visit in Laos
Makphet Restaurant (Vientiane)
If you want to try a variety of authentic Lao dishes while supporting a good cause, head to Makphet. This social enterprise restaurant trains disadvantaged youth in hospitality while serving up delicious traditional food.
Their menu highlights local ingredients, with offerings like fish cooked in banana leaves, coconut-spiced curries, and of course, larb. It’s a great place to end your day after exploring the capital, knowing your meal is also helping the community.
Tamnak Lao (Luang Prabang)
Tamnak Lao is a staple in the tourist-favorite town of Luang Prabang. They offer cooking classes which is a great way to learn how to make some of your favorite meals from your trip. But even if you’re just here to eat, you won’t be disappointed.
They serve classics like larb, green papaya salad, and mok pa (steamed fish in banana leaves), all done to perfection. It’s a fantastic spot to enjoy a traditional meal in a laid-back, friendly environment.
Lao Kitchen (Vientiane)
If you’re looking for consistently good Lao food that won’t break the bank, Lao Kitchen is a popular choice. It’s a small, casual place with friendly service, known for its generous portions and flavorful dishes.
The menu leans towards Lao classics, cooked with fresh ingredients. Try their grilled meats, salads, curries, and soups. It’s all tasty, and the prices are very reasonable, making it a favorite among both tourists and locals.
Where to Find Authentic Cuisine in Laos
Explore the Night Markets
Some of the best food experiences in Laos are found at its night markets. Both Vientiane and Luang Prabang are famous for their bustling street markets where vendors sell all kinds of delicious food. If you’re strolling through the Luang Prabang Night Market, make sure to explore the food section toward the back.
Here, you’ll find fresh fruit smoothies, grilled meats, and big buffet-style trays of noodles and fried rice. One of the highlights is the rotisserie chicken and fish, grilled fresh and perfect to share.
Try Small, Family-Owned Restaurants
If you want authentic Lao food, skip the tourist-focused places and check out small, family-run restaurants. These places are often much cheaper and give you a more genuine experience. You’ll find them on side streets, or near markets in both major cities and smaller towns. If you see a place packed with locals, it’s usually a sign that the food is top-notch.
Look for places serving lajiao, fish soups, or other regional specialties. Some restaurants are simple, often with plastic chairs and low tables, but the food is always fresh and flavorful.
Venture Beyond the Cities
While Vientiane and Luang Prabang have become major tourist hubs, don’t overlook the food scene in smaller towns. Places like Pakse, Nong Khiaw, and Vang Vieng also offer great opportunities to taste regional Lao dishes.
In these quieter spots, you’ll have the chance to try farm-to-table dining, with many dishes made using freshly caught fish or locally grown herbs. It’s the kind of organic dining that will make you appreciate the simplicity and wholesomeness of Lao food culture.
Final Tips for Eating in Laos
Eating in Laos is an adventure, so don’t be afraid to try new things. If you’re ever unsure of what to order, just ask the locals—they are incredibly friendly and always happy to share their food culture.
One last tip: don’t forget to bring cash. Many small street vendors don’t accept cards, and you’ll miss out on some fantastic meals if you’re unprepared.
Whether you’re sitting down to a home-cooked Lao dinner or grabbing a snack in the market, you’ll quickly discover that food is a key part of what makes Laos so special.
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