Food In Luang Prabang

Food History of Luang Prabang, Laos

The cuisine of Luang Prabang has a rich history influenced by its geography, culture, and history. Nestled at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, the ancient town of Luang Prabang was once the royal capital of the Lan Xang kingdom. This royal heritage infused its cuisine with a complexity and sophistication that is a delight to explore. Lao food, in general, is characterized by its freshness, vibrant herbs, and the balance of flavors ranging from sour and sweet to spicy and bitter. In Luang Prabang, local ingredients such as river fish, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs feature prominently, along with a French culinary influence due to the country's colonial past.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Luang Prabang, Laos

• Khaiphaen (Vegetarian) - A popular vegetarian snack made of sun-dried sheets of river algae, typically seasoned with sesame seeds and garlic.
• Laap Tofu (Vegetarian) - A vegetarian version of the national dish laap made with finely chopped tofu mixed with lime juice, chili, and fresh herbs.
• Or Lam (Non-Vegetarian) - A hearty Luang Prabang stew usually made with chicken or buffalo meat stewed with eggplants, lemongrass, and dill, thickened with sticky rice.
• Luang Prabang Salad (Vegetarian) - A refreshing salad characterized by a combination of local greens, tomato, egg, and a light dressing, sometimes topped with crushed peanuts.
• Tam Mak Hoong (Vegetarian) - Spicy Lao papaya salad made with shredded green papaya, garlic, chilies, cherry tomatoes, green beans, and a pungent fermented fish sauce (optional).
• Khao Soi (Non-Vegetarian) - Not to be confused with the Thai dish of the same name, the Lao version is a noodle soup often made with minced pork and a rich, fragrant broth seasoned with local herbs.
• Mok Pa (Non-Vegetarian) - Steamed fish wrapped in banana leaves, typically seasoned with lemongrass, rice paddy herbs, and chili.
• Sien Savanh (Non-Vegetarian) - Luang Prabang-style dried beef, which is marinated with garlic, coriander, and other spices before being sun-dried and grilled.
• Sticky Rice (Vegetarian) - A staple in Lao cuisine, sticky rice is usually served in bamboo baskets and eaten with the hands, perfect to accompany laap or other dishes.
• Lemongrass Stuffed with Vegetables (Vegetarian) - Hollowed-out lemongrass stalks stuffed with a mix of herb-infused vegetables or tofu, then steamed or grilled.

Top Famous Restaurants in Luang Prabang, Laos

1. Tamarind: A Taste of Laos
   Address: Ban Wat Sene, Luang Prabang, Laos
   Famous Food: Tamarind Fish (Non-Vegetarian), Vegetarian Laap (Vegetarian)
2. Dyen Sabai Restaurant
   Address: Ban Phan Louang, Luang Prabang, Laos
   Famous Food: Luang Prabang Stew (Non-Vegetarian), Pumpkin Curry (Vegetarian)
3. Blue Lagoon Restaurant
   Address: Chao Sisouphanh Road, Luang Prabang, Laos
   Famous Food: Coconut Curry (Vegetarian), Laap Kai (chicken laap) (Non-Vegetarian)
4. Le Café Ban Vat Sene
   Address: Sakkarine Road, Luang Prabang, Laos
   Famous Food: Croissant with Laos Coffee (Vegetarian), Chicken Baguette Sandwich (Non-Vegetarian)
5. L'Elephant Restaurant
   Address: Ban Vat Sene, Luang Prang, Laos
   Famous Food: French and Lao Fusion Dishes (Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian options available)