Must-Try Foods In Savannakhet (Laos) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Savannakhet, Laos

The cuisine in Savannakhet, as in the rest of Laos, is influenced by its geography and history. Located by the Mekong River and sharing borders with Thailand and Vietnam, Savannakhet incorporates flavors and ingredients from its neighbors, resulting in a unique culinary blend. The food reflects the agricultural lifestyle of its inhabitants, with sticky rice being the staple and freshwater fish from the Mekong River being a key protein source. Historically, Laotian cuisine has been shaped by the migration of the Tai people and the French colonial period. The latter brought with it the introduction of European ingredients and bread, which is seen today in the local baguette sandwiches, known as "khao jee". Traditional Lao dishes rely heavily on fermentation for flavor and preservation, giving the cuisine its distinctive tangy and robust character. Fresh herbs and vegetables also play a prominent role, creating a varied plant-based culinary landscape.

Must-try Top 10 Food Dishes in Savannakhet, Laos

1. Tam Mak Hoong (Spicy Papaya Salad) - Non-veg: A spicy salad made from shredded green papaya, chili, garlic, tomatoes, and shrimp paste.
2. Khao Piak Sen (Lao Noodle Soup) - Non-veg: A comforting rice noodle soup, typically served with chicken.
3. Larb (Lao Meat Salad) - Non-veg: A traditional meat-based salad most commonly made with minced pork, fish sauce, lime juice, and fresh herbs.
4. Sin Savan (Savannakhet Sausage) - Non-veg: Locally made sausages bursting with flavors of lemongrass, garlic, and herbs.
5. Kaeng Nor Mai (Bamboo Shoot Soup) - Non-veg: A tangy and spicy soup consisting of bamboo shoots, mushroom, and sometimes chicken or fish.
6. Jaew Mak Khua (Eggplant Dip) - Veg: Roasted eggplant mixed with chili, garlic, shallots, and cilantro.
7. Khao Lam (Sticky Rice in Bamboo) - Veg: Sticky rice mixed with coconut milk and black beans, cooked in bamboo tubes.
8. Som Moo (Sour Pork) - Non-veg: Fermented pork with garlic and chili, usually eaten with sticky rice.
9. Khao Jee (Lao Baguette Sandwich) - Non-veg: A Laotian take on the French baguette sandwich, often filled with pork, pate, vegetables, and cilantro.
10. Mak Keua (Roasted Eggplant) - Veg: Grilled eggplant mashed with spices and herbs, served as a side dish.

Top Famous Restaurants in Savannakhet, Laos

Lin's Café

Address: Kaysorn Phomvihane Road, Savannakhet

Famous Food: Pho (Non-veg): A Vietnamese noodle soup served with beef or chicken.

Daosavanh Restaurant & Banquet

Address: Ongkeo Road, Ban Thahae, Kaysone Phomvihane City

Famous Food: Grilled Fish from Mekong River (Non-veg): Fresh fish grilled with local herbs.

Savanh Banh Cuon

Address: Sisavangvong Road, Savannakhet

Famous Food: Banh Cuon (Non-veg): Vietnamese inspired rice crepes stuffed with minced pork and mushrooms.

Le Silapa Restaurant

Address: Sikhotthabong road - opposite Simuang supermarket, Savannakhet

Famous Food: Luang Prabang Salad (Veg): A vegetarian dish with mixed vegetables, egg, and a sweet and sour dressing.

Nang Noy Café

Address: Ounheuan Road, Savannakhet

Famous Food: Khao Soi (Non-veg): A northern Lao dish of rice noodles in a spicy coconut milk-based broth with chicken.

Please note that while Savannakhet's cuisine is generally rich in meat and fish, vegetarian options may be available at several restaurants, and some dishes can be made veg-friendly upon request. Always communicate dietary preferences when ordering.