Must-Try Foods In Vientiane Night Market (Vientiane) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

The Food History of Vientiane Night Market

The Vientiane Night Market, nestled along the Mekong Riverbank, is not only a hub for crafts and clothing but also a vibrant center of Laotian culinary culture. The history of its food is deeply entwired with the diverse influences that have shaped Laos through the centuries, including Thai, Vietnamese, French, and Chinese cuisines. Over time, these influences have melded with indigenous traditions to create a unique Lao gastronomy, which is showcased beautifully in the night market's plethora of food stalls and vendors. Vientians often gather here not only for the shopping but to enjoy the rich tapestry of flavors that represent their collective history.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Vientiane Night Market

1. Laap (Larb) - Non-Veg: A quintessential Lao dish made with minced meat, herbs, lime juice, and toasted ground rice.
2. Khao Piak Sen - Non-Veg: Lao chicken noodle soup, featuring chewy, homemade rice noodles in a rich broth, perfect for a comforting meal.
3. Papaya Salad (Tam Mak Hoong) - Veg: A spicy and tangy salad made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, garlic, and chilies.
4. Sticky Rice (Khao Niew) - Veg: A staple of Laotian cuisine, eaten with your hands and often paired with other dishes.
5. Grilled Fish (Pa Nin) - Non-Vog: Fresh Mekong fish seasoned with herbs and spices, then grilled to perfection.
6. Mok Pa (Fish Steamed in Banana Leaves) - Non-Veg: Fish marinated with a blend of Laos seasonings and steamed in banana leaves.
7. Khao Jee (Lao Baguette) - Veg: A French-inspired baguette, often filled with pâté, veggies, and optional meats.
8. Lao Sausage (Sai Oua) - Non-Veg: Aromatic sausages made with pork, lemongrass, and a variety of herbs.
9. Spring Rolls - Veg/Non-Veg: Fresh or fried, filled with vegetables, noodles, and sometimes meat or shrimp.
10. Mango with Sticky Rice - Veg: A sweet dessert dish made of sticky rice topped with ripe mango and coconut milk.

Top Famous Restaurants in Vientiane Night Market

• Bor Pen Nyang
  Quai Fa Ngum, Vientiane, Laos

  Famous Food: Grilled Mekong fish - Non-Veg

• Khop Chai Deu
  Setthathirath Road, Vientiane, Laos

  Famous Food: Laap (Larb) - Non-Veg

• Noy's Fruit Heaven
  Phnom Penh Road, Vientiane, Laos

  Famous Food: Tropical fruit smoothies - Veg

• Tamnak Lao
  Samsenthai Road, Vientiane, Laos

  Famous Food: Papaya Salad (Tam Mak Hoong) - Veg

• Makphet
  Setthathirath Road, Vientiane, Laos

  Famous Food: Stuffed Lemongrass - Non-Veg