Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Vientiane, Laos

Vientiane, Laos, Vientiane, Food & Drink, Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them

Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Vientiane, Laos

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1. Khao Piak Sen

Thick and hearty Laotian-style knife-cut noodles served with various meats or vegetables in a clear broth. Savor this dish at Ming Khao Piak Sen.
  • Authenticity: Prepared traditionally using a hand-cranked machine to cut the noodles.
  • Variety: Options available for meat or vegetarian preferences.
  • Broth: Clearly distinguishable from other Laotian noodles with its lighter, flavorful broth.

2. Laap

Minced meat salad seasoned with lime juice, fish sauce, and herbs, traditionally made from beef or chicken. Experience Laap at Bokeo Savannah Restaurant.
  • Flavorful: A burst of exotic flavors from the unique combination of herbs and spices.
  • Versatility: Various meats available for preference, including fish, pork, or even insects.
  • Freshness: Uses fresh and raw ingredients to maintain a zesty taste.

3. Jeow Bong

A distinctive Laotian dip made from sticky rice powder mixed with chili peppers and herbs. Try it at Boun Oum Restaurant.
  • Spiciness: Packs a punch with its fiery chili pepper content.
  • Versatility: Can be paired with various dishes such as grilled meats or sticky rice.
  • Texture: Thick and creamy dip, unlike traditional dips in other cultures.

4. Tam Mak Hoong

Spicy papaya salad seasoned with fish sauce, lime juice, and crushed peanuts. Taste it at Khao Jee Chaw Lao.
  • Flavorful: A refreshing and tangy combination of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy flavors.
  • Variety: Can be customized with additional ingredients such as shrimp, crab, or fish.
  • Crispness: The contrasting textures of the crisp vegetables and soft papaya add an interesting twist.

5. Sai Oua

Spicy Laotian sausage flavored with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and other aromatic herbs. Enjoy it at Thongkham Sausage Stall.
  • Flavorful: Infused with a delightful blend of fragrant herbs and spices.
  • Versatility: Can be served hot or cold, making it enjoyable in various temperature settings.
  • Authenticity: Handmade daily using a family recipe passed down through generations.

6. Khao Pi (Sticky Rice)

Sticky rice, a staple food in Laos, usually served as an accompaniment to various dishes. Savor it at Tanthep Sticky Rice.
  • Texture: Chewy and glutinous, different from regular steamed rice.
  • Flavorful: Often infused with pandan leaf or coconut milk for added taste.
  • Nutritious: A good source of carbohydrates and essential nutrients.

7. Or Lam (Laotian Curry)

Rich and flavorful curry made with beef, eggplant, and various spices. Try it at Phongsavanh Restaurant.
  • Flavorful: Distinguished by its thick, rich coconut milk-based broth.
  • Versatility: Available with various meats or vegetables.
  • Spiciness: Adjustable spice levels to cater to individual preferences.

8. Nam Khao Tod (Crispy Rice Salad)

A salad made from fried rice mixed with various ingredients such as shallots, peanuts, and herbs. Taste it at Khao Jee Chaw Lao.
  • Crispiness: The crispy texture of the fried rice adds an interesting contrast.
  • Flavorful: A burst of flavors from the mix of sweet, sour, and salty elements.
  • Versatility: Can be enjoyed as a main dish or side.

9. Khao Soi (Lao-style Noodle Soup)

Curry noodle soup with a Laotian twist, featuring banana flower and bamboo shoots. Try it at Sisavanh Restaurant.
  • Unique Ingredients: Features locally sourced ingredients such as banana flower and bamboo shoots.
  • Spiciness: Adjustable spice levels to cater to individual preferences.
  • Flavorful: Distinguished by its creamy and fragrant curry broth.

10. Khao Nom Kok (Lao Sticky Rice Dumplings)

Sweet dumplings made from sticky rice and filled with mung beans or coconut. Try them at Tanthep Sticky Rice.
  • Texture: Soft and chewy outer layer encasing the flavorful filling.
  • Sweetness: A delightful contrast to the savory dishes typically found in Laos.
  • Tradition: Prepared during religious ceremonies and festivals.

11. Bah Mee (Laotian Noodle Soup)

Noodle soup featuring a clear broth, fresh vegetables, and various meats. Enjoy it at Khao Jee Chaw Lao.
  • Light Broth: Clear broth unlike other noodle soups with a rich, opaque broth.
  • Versatility: Customizable with various meats or vegetables.
  • Freshness: Uses fresh ingredients for a vibrant and refreshing taste.

12. Or Lam Paa (Laotian Spicy Fish Curry)

Spicy fish curry made with various vegetables. Taste it at Phongsavanh Restaurant.
  • Flavorful: Distinguished by its rich and flavorful coconut milk-based broth.
  • Spiciness: Adjustable spice levels to cater to individual preferences.
  • Freshness: Uses fresh fish for a vibrant and flavorful taste.

13. Khao Lam (Glutinous Rice in Bamboo)

Glutinous rice cooked in a hollowed-out bamboo stalk and served with various toppings. Try it at Tanthep Sticky Rice.
  • Texture: Soft and sticky rice contrasts nicely with the crispy outer layer.
  • Versatility: Can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert, depending on the toppings chosen.
  • Tradition: Prepared in a traditional bamboo container, giving it an authentic touch.

14. Tam Tong (Lao Mango Sticky Rice)

Sweet sticky rice served with coconut milk and ripe mangoes. Try it at Khao Jee Chaw Lao.
  • Texture: Soft and chewy rice combined with the creamy texture of coconut milk.
  • Sweetness: A delightful combination of the natural sweetness of ripe mangoes and coconut milk.
  • Tradition: A traditional dessert enjoyed during various occasions in Laos.

15. Kai Khao Niew (Laotian Sticky Rice with Chicken)

Sticky rice cooked in a bamboo container and served with chicken, vegetables, and herbs. Try it at Tanthep Sticky Rice.
  • Texture: Soft and sticky rice contrasts nicely with the tender, flavored chicken.
  • Flavorful: Infused with a delightful blend of fragrant herbs and spices.
  • Tradition: Prepared in a traditional bamboo container, giving it an authentic touch.
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