Must-Try Foods In Laos National Museum (Vientiane) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Laos National Museum, Vientiane, Laos

The Laos National Museum, also known as the Lao National History Museum, is housed in a colonial-era building that has witnessed the transformation of Lao cuisine throughout history. While the museum primarily focuses on the cultural, historical, and political narrative of Laos, it is indirectly connected to the evolution of Lao food. The exhibits provide insights into the agricultural practices, traditional lifestyles, and customs that have shaped Lao gastronomy, illustrating how the diverse ethnic groups and neighboring cultures have influenced Laos's culinary heritage over the years.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes at Laos National Museum, Vientian, Laos

1. Laap (Larb) - Non-Veg: A traditional Lao meat salad that's considered the national dish. Typically made with chicken, fish, or tofu as a non-cow meat alternative, it's flavored with lime juice, fish sauce, and fresh herbs.
2. Khao Niaw (Sticky Rice) - Veg: Sticky rice is a staple in Lao meals, typically served in small baskets and eaten with hands.
3. Tam Mak Hoong (Papaya Salad) - Veg: A spicy salad made from shredded green papaya, tomatoes, and chili, often seasoned with lime and fish sauce.
4. Jeow Bong - Veg/Non-Veg: A sweet and spicy chili paste that's often accompanied by sticky rice and can be made with or without meat.
5. Khao Piak Sen - Non-Veg: A comforting Lao noodle soup often made with chicken or other meats (excluding cow) and served with fresh herbs on the side.
6. Or Lam (Aw Lam) - Non-Veg: A hearty stew that features vegetables, dill, lemongrass, and meat, typically made with chicken or fish as an alternative to beef.
7. Sin Dat (Sindad) - Non-Veg: A Lao-style barbecue that includes a selection of meats, seafood, and vegetables grilled right at the table, often compared to Korean BBQ.
8. Mok Pa (Fish Steamed in Banana Leaves) - Non-Veg: Fish seasoned with herbs and spices, then steamed inside banana leaves.
9. Lao Green Curry - Veg/Non-Veg: Unlike its Thai counterpart, the Lao version of green curry usually has a more bitter taste and can be made with vegetables or chicken.
10. Kaipen (Fried Seaweed) - Veg: Crispy sheets of dried river algae, usually from the Mekong River, that are fried and eaten as a savory snack.

Top Famous Restaurants in Laos National Museum Area, Vientiane, Laos

Kualao Restaurant

Address: 134 Samsenthai Rd, Vientiane

Famous Food: Laap (Larb), offering both meat and vegetarian options.

Makphet Restaurant

Address: Sethathirath Road, Vientiane

Famous Food: Traditional Lao dishes with a modern twist, including vegetarian options.

Lao Kitchen

Address: Hengbounnoy St., Vientiane

Famous Food: Or Lam - A traditional stew. Available with chicken for a non-cow meat variant.

Doi Ka Noi

Address: Sibounheuang Road, Vientiane

Famous Food: Seasonal Lao tasting menu, offering options for vegetarians and dishes with fish or chicken as non-cow meat.

Aria Italian Culinary Arts

Address: Sisavat Village, Vientiane

Famous Food: Fine Italian cuisine with vegetarian pasta and pizza options.

Tamnak Lao Restaurant

Address: Setthathirath Road, Vientiane

Famous Food: Tam Mak Hoong (Papaya Salad) with options to adjust the level of spice to your preference, with vegetarian and fish sauce-free versions available.

Amphone Restaurant

Address: Thadeua Road, Vientiane

Famous Food: Classic Lao fish dishes, along with a variety of vegetable-based options.

Blue Lotus Vegetarian Restaurant

Address: Phangkham Road, Vientiane

Famous Food: A full vegetarian menu featuring Lao vegetarian dishes and international favorites.