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

Food History of Vientiane, Laos

The food in Vientiane reflects the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Laos, with influences from Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, and French cuisines. Lao food is often characterized by its freshness, vibrant flavors, and the generous use of herbs and vegetables. A staple of the diet here is sticky rice, which is typically enjoyed with an array of dips, salads, and grilled meats. The Mekong River and surrounding fertile lands provide an abundance of fresh produce and fish, which play a central role in the local diet. French colonialism left a legacy of coffee culture and baguettes, which are now commonly paired with Lao-style fillings.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Vientiane, Laos

1. Laap (Non-Veg) - A traditional Lao meat salad that's considered the national dish. It is made with minced meat (chicken, fish, or duck), seasoned with lime juice, fish sauce, mint, and fresh herbs.
2. Tam Mak Houng (Veg) - Spicy green papaya salad, a dish with a blend of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors, commonly found in local markets and restaurants.
3. Khao Poon (Non-Veg) - A spicy noodle soup made with chicken, fish or pork, and served with a curry-based broth and a variety of fresh herbs and vegetables.
4. Khao Piak Sen (Non-Veg) - Lao-style chicken noodle soup made with thick, homemade rice noodles and a flavorful, aromatic broth.
5. Khao Jee (Veg/Non-Veg) - A Lao version of the Vietnamese Banh Mi, this baguette sandwich is filled with options like pate, grilled meats, or tofu, along with vegetables and chili sauce.
6. Or Lam (Non-Veg) - A hearty stew made with meat, often buffalo or beef, eggplants, vegetables, and flavored with woodsy herbs and spices.
7. Sien Savanh (Non-Veg) - Lao-style beef jerky, often served with sticky rice and chili sauce for dipping.
8. Yall Dib (Non-Veg) - Fresh spring rolls filled with herbs, vegetables, and often shrimp or pork, served with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce.
9. Lao-style Stir Fry (Veg/Non-Veg) - A simple, yet delicious stir-fry usually made with vegetables, tofu, chicken, or pork with a hint of oyster sauce and fish sauce.
10. Mok Pa (Non-Veg) - Steamed fish in banana leaf, typically seasoned with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and chili, offering a delicate flavor profile.

Top Famous Restaurants in Vientiane, Laos

Kualao Restaurant

Chanthakhoumane Road, Vientiane, Laos

Famous Food: Laap (Non-Veg)

Makphet Restaurant

Sethathirath Road, Vientiane, Laos

Famous Food: Khao Piak Sen (Non-Veg)

Le Silapa

Sakkarine Road, Vientiane, Laos

Famous Food: French-Lao Fusion Cuisine (Veg/Non-Veg)

Doi Ka Noi

Saphanthong Road, Vientiane, Laos

Famous Food: Or Lam (Non-Veg)

Lao Kitchen

Chanthakhoumane Road, Vientiane, Laos

Famous Food: Tam Mak Houng (Veg)

Tyson Kitchen

Nongbone Road, Vientiane, Laos

Famous Food: American-Lao Fusion Dishes (Veg/Non-Veg)

Aria Italian Culinary Arts

Sihom Road, Vientiane, Laos

Famous Food: Italian Cuisine (Veg/Non-Veg)

Tamnak Lao Restaurant

Samsenthai Road, Vientiane, Laos

Famous Food: Traditional Lao Set Menu (Non-Veg)

Common Grounds Cafe & Bakery

Pangkham Road, Vientiane, Laos

Famous Food: Coffee and Pastries (Veg)

Green Bowl

Setthathirath Road, Vientiane, Laos

Famous Food: Vegan Bowls (Veg)