Food In Pakse Market

Food History of Pakse Market, Pakse, Laos

The Pakse Market is a vibrant hub for both locals and tourists in Pakse, the capital of Champasak province in southern Laos. The market is well-known for its reflection of the rich and diverse culinary history of Laos, which is influenced by Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, and French cuisines. Moreover, Pakse, being at the confluence of the Mekong and Sedon rivers, benefits from an abundance of fresh fish and other aquatic ingredients. Over the years, the market has become a center where these diverse food traditions converge, offering a unique gastronomic experience to its visitors.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Pakse Market

1. Khai Pene (Crispy River Weed) – Veg: Khai Pene is a unique Lao snack made from fresh river algae, seasoned with sesame seeds and garlic, then sun-dried into crispy sheets and typically served with a spicy dip.
2. Tam Mak Hoong (Spicy Papaya Salad) – Veg: A staple in Laotian cuisine, this spicy salad is similar to the Thai version but with a bolder flavor profile from fermented fish sauce and crab paste, but vegetarian options are often available.
3. Khao Piak Sen (Lao Noodle Soup) – Non-Veg: Often eaten for breakfast, this comforting noodle soup is made with chicken or duck broth, rice noodles, and garnished with herbs and lime.
4. Khao Jee (Lao-Style Baguette) – Veg/Non-Veg: Lao-style baguettes are a French colonial legacy that can be enjoyed with various fillings, including pate, grilled meats, or vegetarian options with tofu and vegetables.
5. Or Lam (Laotian Stew) – Non-Veg: This hearty stew from northern Laos incorporates vegetables, eggplants, chili wood, and meat, usually buffalo, but there are also versions with chicken or fish.
6. Sin Savanh (Lao Sausage) – Non-Veg: Sin Savanh or Lao sausage is made with pork, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal, offering a citrusy and herbal flavor unique to Lao cuisine.
7. Mok Pa (Fish Steamed in Banana Leaves) – Non-Veg: This dish consists of fish seasoned with aromatic herbs like dill and basil, then steamed inside banana leaves for a fragrant and healthy meal.
8. Lao Green Salad (Laab Khua) – Veg/Non-Veg: Laab Khua is a salad made with minced tofu or meat mixed with herbs, spices, and sometimes accompanied by fresh vegetables.
9. Sticky Rice (Khao Niew) – Veg: A staple of Lao cuisine, sticky rice is served alongside most dishes and is ideal for dipping into sauces or forming into balls to eat with your fingers.
10. Sweet Coconut Pancakes (Khanom Kok) – Veg: These small, slightly sweet pancakes made from rice flour and coconut milk are a delightful way to end your meal or as a snack throughout the day.

Top Famous Restaurants in Pakse Market and Their Specialties

• Dao Heuang Coffee – No. 13 Road, Southern Bus Station, Pakse

  Famous Food: Lao Coffee – Veg

• Nang Noi Restaurant – 13 Road, Pakse

  Famous Food: Tam Mak Hoong (Spicy Papaya Salad) – Veg/Non-Veg

• Delta Coffee – No. 38 Sethathilath Road, Pakse

  Famous Food: Coffee and Western-style breakfasts – Veg/Non-Veg

• Le Panorama at Pakse Hotel – St. Thaluang, Ban Watlouang, Pakse

  Famous Food: French and Lao cuisine – Veg/Non-Veg

• Champady Restaurant – Along the Mekong River, near the Chinese Temple, Pakse

  Famous Food: Mok Pa (Fish Steamed in Banana Leaves) – Non-Veg

• Pho Saigon – Road No. 38, Pakse

  Famous Food: Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup) – Non-Veg

• Chitpasong Bus Terminal Restaurants – Near the main bus terminal in Pakse

  Famous Food: Local Lao Dishes – Veg/Non-Veg

• Bolaven Cafe – Road No. 5, Thaluang Area, Pakse

  Famous Food: Fresh coffee and pastries – Veg

Notably, many restaurants in Pakse market offer vegetarian versions of traditional Lao dishes, making it a friendly destination for those who prefer plant-based diets.