Must-Try Foods In Vat Phou (Issan) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Vat Phou, Issan, Thailand

Vat Phou, also known as Wat Phu, is an ancient Khmer temple complex located in southern Laos. While it is not actually in Issan, Thailand, the Issan region shares cultural and historical ties with Laos, given its location in northeastern Thailand and proximity to Laos. The food of Issan has been influenced by both Laos and the Khmer Empire, resulting in a cuisine that is rich in flavor, and that often features sticky rice, fresh vegetables, and a plethora of herbs.

Traditional Issan cuisine has a history that is deeply connected to the agricultural way of life. Many dishes are designed to be eaten with hands using sticky rice as an edible utensil. The food is known for its bold flavors, including sour, spicy, and umami, predominantly due to the use of fermented fish sauce (pla ra) and shrimp paste. While Issan food includes a variety of meats, vegetarian options can be found due to the ample use of fresh local produce.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Vat Phou, Issan, Thailand

• Som Tam (Non-Veg/Veg): A spicy green papaya salad that can be made vegetarian without the addition of fish sauce or crab.
• Laab (Non-Veg): A spicy salad made with minced meat, mint, lime juice, and roasted rice powder, though it is traditionally made with pork or chicken.
• Tom Saeb (Non-Veg): A tangy and spicy soup with a herby aroma, often made with fish or pork.
• Khao Niew (Veg): Sticky rice, the staple of Issan cuisine, often served with various dips and salads.
• Gai Yang (Non-Veg): Grilled chicken marinated in a mixture of Thai spices, typically served with a side of sticky rice.
• Tam Taeng Kwaa (Veg): A refreshing cucumber salad similar to Som Tam but less spicy and vegetarian-friendly.
• Jaeow Bong (Veg): A spicy Lao chili paste often eaten with sticky rice or fresh vegetables, and can be made without animal products.
• Yam Woon Sen (Non-Veg): Glass noodle salad that can be made with seafood or meat, and vegetarian options are available as well.
• Moo Ping (Non-Veg): Skewered and grilled pork, a popular street food that pairs well with sticky rice.
• Khao Piak Sen (Non-Veg): A cozy Lao rice noodle soup that can include chicken but can also be found in vegetarian versions.

Top Famous Restaurants in Vat Phou, Issan, Thailand

As Vat Phou is technically in Laos, tourists usually explore Issan cuisine in Thailand before crossing over to see the temple complex. Some notable restaurants in the Issan region that are famous for their Thai and Lao dishes include:

Kaeng Ron Baan Suan

Address: 209 Moo 1, Nang Lae, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand

Famous Food: Som Tam (can be requested vegetarian) and Gai Yang (Non-Veg)

Sabaijai Kai Yang

Address: 14 Mittraphap Rd, Nai Mueang, Khon Kaen 40000, Thailand

Famous Food: Kai Yang (Non-Veg) and Tom Saeb (can be adapted to Veg)

Ruen Patchara Khao Man Kai

Address: 45/1 Soi Khon Kaen, Tambon Nai Mueang, Amphoe Mueang Khon Kaen, Khon Kaen, Thailand

Famous Food: Khao Man Kai (Chicken Rice) (Non-Veg)

Laap Ton Yang

Address: 44 Ratchadanuson Rd, Mak Khaeng, Udon Thani 41000, Thailand

Famous Food: Laap (Non-Veg)

Issan @ Khao Yai

Address: 999 Thanarat Rd, Pak Chong, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand

Famous Food: Som Tam and Laab (Both have Non-Veg and Veg options)

Note: Vegetarian or vegan options may not be widely advertised, so it's best to request them specifically when dining out. Many local chefs are accustomed to adapting dishes to meet dietary preferences.