Must-Try Foods In Lao Silk Road (Savannakhet) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Lao Silk Road, Savannakhet, Laos

The Lao Silk Road is not a road made of silk, nor is it similar to the ancient trade routes. Instead, it refers to the rich heritage of culture and cuisine in Savannakhet, Laos. Here, there's a weaving of culinary influences derived from the many ethnic groups, including Lao, Vietnamese, Chinese, and Thai, leading to a complex and flavorful gastronomic landscape. The area is known for its use of fresh ingredients, such as herbs, vegetables, and river fish, and the preference for glutinous rice and fish sauce.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Lao Silk Road, Savannakhet, Laos

1. Khao Piak Sen (Noodle Soup) – A hearty noodle soup generally made from chicken, it's a staple comfort food. (Non-veg)
2. Tam Mak Houng (Spicy Green Papaya Salad) – This dish is a spicy salad made with shredded green papaya, chilies, garlic, lime, and sometimes crab. (Veg option available)
3. Laap (Minced Meat Salad) – A traditional meat salad often made using minced pork, fish or chicken, flavored with lime juice, fish sauce, and fresh herbs. (Non-veg)
4. Sticky Rice – Glutinous rice served as a staple accompaniment to most meals. (Veg)
5. Jeow Bong (Chili Sauce with Buffalo Skin) – A spicy chili paste that's traditionally made with dried buffalo skin. (Non-veg)
6. Khao Lam (Sticky Rice in Bamboo) – Sticky rice mixed with coconut milk and black beans, and cooked in bamboo tubes. (Veg)
7. Or Lam (Stew) – A hearty stew with vegetables and meat, sometimes flavored with lemongrass and dill. (Non-veg)
8. Siin Savanh (Dried Beef) – Marinated in local spices and sun-dried, this beef dish makes for a savory snack. (Non-veg)
9. Mok Pa (Fish Steamed in Banana Leaves) – Fish seasoned with herbs and steamed inside banana leaves. (Non-veg)
10. Lao-style Baguette (Patê Sandwich) – The French influence in Lao is evident in their local version of the baguette, often filled with patê and fresh vegetables. (Veg option available)

Top Famous Restaurants in Lao Silk Road, Savannakhet, Laos

Dao Savanh Restaurant

Address: Kaysone Phomvihane Road, Savannakhet
Famous Food: Mok Pa (Fish Steamed in Banana Leaves) (Non-veg)

Lin's Café

Address: Latsavongseuk Road, Ban Xayyaphoum Village, Kaysone Phomvihane District
Famous Food: Veggie Wraps and Smoothies (Veg)

Le Gourmet Burger

Address: Oup Mong Vientiane Rd, Ban Thahae, Kaysone Phomvihane
Famous Food: Various Gourmet Burgers with choice of vegetarian patties (Veg option available)

Phet Lao Gold Tamarind Restaurant

Address: 112 Sisavangvong Rd, Ban Thakhek, Thakhek District
Famous Food: Lao-style Stir Fried Vegetables (Veg)

Pilgrim's Kitchen & Inn

Address: Unit 8 Ban Sounantha, Kaysone Phomvihane District
Famous Food: Tofu Laap (Vegan Minced Salad) (Veg)

Note: Please verify the address and menu options of the restaurants before visiting, as they could have changed. Savannakhet, being a culturally diverse and dynamic city, offers a variety of culinary experiences catering to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian preferences.