Must-Try Foods In Bolaven Plateau (Pakse) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Bolaven Plateau, Pakse, Laos

The Bolaven Plateau in Pakse, Laos, has a rich culinary history that is inherently linked to its geography and ethnic diversity. The region boasts fertile soil due to its volcanic origins, which is conducive to coffee plantations and a variety of fruits and vegetables. Owing to the diverse indigenous groups such as the Laven (whom the plateau is named after), as well as influences from Thai, Vietnamese, and French cuisine, the food on the Bolaven Plateau is an eclectic mix of flavors and cooking techniques.

Besides the ubiquitous use of sticky rice and fresh herbs, the Bolaven Plateau is particularly renowned for its organic coffee, with coffee tours being a major attraction. Laos's ethnic groups also contribute their unique fermented foods, spices, and preparation styles, which make the local cuisine stand out.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Bolaven Plateau, Pakse, Laos

1. Khao Piak Sen - This is a traditional Lao noodle soup, usually made with chicken (non-veg). It's comforting, with handmade rice noodles and a fragrant broth seasoned with local herbs and spices.
2. Sin Savanh - Thinly sliced, sun-dried buffalo meat (non-veg), which is often seasoned with garlic and chili and served with sticky rice.
3. Tam Mak Hoong - A spicy and tangy papaya salad (veg) that can include a mix of vegetables and a pungent dressing of fish sauce, lime juice, and chili peppers.
4. Larb - A spicy meat salad that can be prepared with chicken, fish or pork (non-veg), mixed with lime juice, fish sauce, mint, and toasted rice powder.
5. Kaipen - Fried algae sheets (veg) from the Mekong River, usually served with a spicy dipping sauce called jaew bong.
6. Lao-style Baguette - The French colonial influence brought about the baguette, which locals fill with a combination of Lao ingredients (veg/non-veg options available).
7. Jaew Mak Khua - An eggplant dip (veg), roasted and mashed with a mix of spices and herbs, often eaten with sticky rice.
8. Mok Pa - A fish dish (non-veg) where the fish is seasoned with local herbs and steamed in banana leaves.
9. Yam Mak Thao - A long bean salad (veg) that combines crunchy beans with hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, peanuts, and a flavorful dressing.
10. Sakoo Yat Sai - Steamed tapioca balls filled with a sweet or savory filling (veg/non-veg options).

Top Famous Restaurants in Bolaven Plateau, Pakse, Laos

• Dao Coffee House
  Address: No. 13 South Road, Pakse, Champasak Province, Laos
  Famous for: Coffee and light meals with vegetarian options available.
• Katoy's Restaurant
  Address: No. 38 Road 3 Ban Vat Louang, Pakse, Laos
  Famous for: Traditional Lao dishes, especially good for Sin Savanh (non-veg).
• Sabaidee Valley Restaurant
  Address: Bolaven Plateau, Pakse, Laos
  Famous for: Scenic views and a menu boasting local dishes with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
• Bolaven Café
  Address: Near Km, 15 Rd Ban Bachiengchaleunsouk, Pakse, Laos
  Famous for: Organic coffee and authentic Lao cuisine with choices for both veg and non-veg patrons.
• Le Panorama - Pakse Hotel
  Address: Street 5, Ban Wat Louang, Pakse, Champasak Province, Laos
  Famous for: French cuisine with a Lao twist and a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options amidst stunning views.

The food scene in Bolaven Plateau, Pakse, offers not just a range of flavors, but also an insight into the local culture and traditions. Visitors can enjoy an array of dishes that are testament to the rich biodiversity and cultural melting pot that this region represents.