Food In Patuxai

Food History of Patuxai, Vientiane, Laos

The area around Patuxai, Vientianes iconic Victory Gate, does not have its own separate food history, but rather shares the culinary traditions of Laos. Lao cuisine has been influenced by Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, and French colonial cuisines, creating a flavorful and unique food culture. Sticky rice is the staple food and is often accompanied by fresh herbs, vegetables, fish, and other meats. Food in Vientiane, including around the Patuxai area, encapsulates this blend of flavors and traditions, offering a variety of dishes that range from spicy and sour to sweet and savory, but always rich in taste.

Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Patuxai, Vientiane, Laos

1. Laap (ລາບ) - A traditional Lao meat salad considered the national dish, laap is made with minced meat (chicken, duck or fish), seasoned with lime juice, fish sauce, mint, and fresh herbs. Non-veg.
2. Tam Mak Hoong (ຕໍາໝາກຫຸ່ງ) - Spicy papaya salad, a staple side dish, that's tangy, spicy and can be made without fish sauce for a veg option.
3. Khai Pen (ໄຂ່ເປັນ) - Fried riverweed sheets that are crispy and typically come with a spicy and sweet dipping sauce. Veg.
4. Khao Piak Sen (ເຂົ້າປຽກເສັ້ນ) - Lao-style noodle soup with a rich and slightly sticky broth, typically served with chicken but can have a vegetarian broth. Non-veg/Veg options available.
5. Khao Jee (ເຂົ້າຈີ່) - Baguette sandwiches influenced by French cuisine, often with pate, meats, and herbs, but can also be found with veg fillings. Non-veg/Veg.
6. Sin Savanh (ສິ້ນສະຫວັນ) - Lao-style dried beef that's flavorful and usually served with sticky rice and jeow, a type of dipping sauce. Non-veg.
7. Or Lam (ໂອ່ຫຼາມ) – A hearty Lao stew featuring vegetables, eggplants, beans, and herbs, sometimes made with buffalo. Non-veg/Veg.
8. Mok Pa (ໝົກປາ) - Steamed fish in banana leaves seasoned with herbs and spices, making for a aromatic and healthy choice. Non-veg.
9. Sai Oua (ໄສ້ເອົາ) - Lao sausage, filled with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and other herbs and spices. Non-veg.
10. Lao-style Green Curry (ເຂົ້າເອົາ) - Vegetarian green curry is available and is a flavorful option loaded with vegetables and tofu. Veg.

Top Famous Restaurants in Patuxai, Vientiane, Laos

• Kualao Restaurant - 134 Samsenthai Road. Renowned for its traditional Lao cuisine, it is a great spot to try Laap and other Laotian delights. Non-veg/Veg options.
• Doi Ka Noi - Saphanthong Tai Village. Known for its homestyle cooking and offers a particularly tasty Or Lam. Non-veg/Veg options.
• Lao Kitchen - Rue Hengboun. Popular among tourists for its wide range of local dishes. Their Mok Pa is quite famous. Non-veg/Veg options.
• Tamnak Lao Restaurant - Ban Nakham. Offers an authentic taste of Lao food, with options like Tam Mak Hoong. Non-veg/Veg variations available.
• Aria Italian Culinary Arts - Sihom Road. While not Laotian, Aria provides excellent Italian cuisine. A great place for a vegetarian pizza or pasta. Non-veg/Veg.