Must-Try Foods In Wat Si Saket (Vientiane) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Wat Si Saket, Vientiane, Laos

Wat Si Saket is a historic temple located in Vientiane, the capital city of Laos. Although primarily known for its cultural and spiritual significance, it stands in a city that boasts an intricate culinary history influenced by neighboring countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia, as well as its own ethnic diversity. Laotian cuisine typically features fresh ingredients, fragrant herbs, and a notable balance of spicy, sweet, sour, and bitter flavors. Over the years, Wat Si Saket has witnessed the evolution of Vientianian cuisine, which includes a range of dishes from sticky rice, which is the staple of Laotian meals, to the unique blend of herbs and spices found in Lao soups and salads.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Wat Si Saket, Vientiane, Laos

1. Laap (Larb) - A traditional Laotian meat salad that is considered the national dish of Laos. It is made from minced meat (such as chicken, duck, or fish), which is mixed with lime juice, chili, and fresh herbs. Non-Veg
2. Tam Mak Hoong (Papaya Salad) - A spicy salad made from shredded green papaya, tomatoes, lime, fish sauce, and chillies. Non-Veg (can be made Veg without fish sauce)
3. Khao Piak Sen - A comforting Lao noodle soup typically made with chicken and thick, handmade rice noodles. Non-Veg
4. Khao Jee - Lao-style baguette sandwiches often stuffed with pate, meats, carrot, daikon, cucumber, and cilantro. Non-Veg
5. Khao Niaw (Sticky Rice) - A staple in Laotian cuisine, sticky rice is served with most meals and eaten with the hands. Veg
6. Or Lam (Laotian Stew) - This hearty stew typically features meat, eggplant, lemongrass, and vegetables, thickened with sticky rice. Non-Veg
7. Sin Savanh - Lao beef jerky is a popular snack that is seasoned and dried, often served with sticky rice. Non-Veg
8. Jeow Bong - A spicy Lao chili paste made with galangal, garlic, and other spices typically served with sticky rice. Veg
9. Yall Dib - A salad made of fresh, local greens, often mixed with a spicy dressing and accompanied by sticky rice. Veg
10. Lao Coffee - Laos is known for its robust coffee, with a tradition that includes serving it strong and often sweetened with condensed milk. Veg

Top Famous Restaurants in Wat Si Saket, Vientiane, Laos

1. Kualao Restaurant -
   123 Samsenethai Rd, Vientiane

   Famous for traditional Lao dishes; try their Laap and Tam Mak Hoong. Non-Veg/Veg

2. Doi Ka Noi -
   Ban Phiavat Sisattanak, Vientiane

   Renowned for their creative Laotian cuisine; their Khao Piak Sen is a must-try. Non-Veg

3. Tamnak Lao Restaurant -
   Rue Samsenthai, Vientiane

   Offers a great setting and authentic flavors, famous for their Or Lam stew. Non-Veg

4. Cafe Sinouk -
   Sethathirat Rd, Vientiane

   A perfect place for coffee lovers to experience the famous Lao Coffee. Veg

5. Vegetarian Paradise -
   Nokeokoummane St, Vientiane

   Known for an array of vegetarian options, their Jeow Bong is a delightful choice. Veg