Food In Wat Xieng Thong

Food History of Wat Xieng Thong, Luang Prabang, Laos

Wat Xieng Thong is one of the most iconic and historic temples in Luang Prabang, Laos. While it does not have food history of its own, it sits in the heart of Luang Prabang, which is known for its rich culinary traditions. Luang Prabang food is a blend of French colonial influences, traditional Lao flavors, and techniques from neighboring countries like Thailand and Vietnam. Food offerings at temples (including Wat Xieng Thong during festivals) are an important part of Lao Buddhist culture, generally consisting of sticky rice, fruits, and other vegetarian dishes as offerings to the monks and Buddha.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Wat Xieng Thong, Luang Prabang, Laos

1. Khao Soi (Non-Veg) - A traditional Lao noodle soup with a spicy, fragrant broth often made with chicken or pork, excluding beef, served over fresh rice noodles and topped with crunchy deep-fried noodles.
2. Or Lam (Non-Veg) - A hearty Lao stew with jungle herbs, vegetables, and usually meat such as chicken or buffalo, excluding beef, thickened with sticky rice.
3. Mok Pa (Non-Veg) - Steamed fish in banana leaves, seasoned with lemongrass, dill, and other Lao herbs.
4. Laap (Non-Veg) - A spicy and sour salad made from minced meat, such as chicken or duck (but no beef), flavored with lime juice, fish sauce, mint, and roasted ground rice.
5. Tam Mak Hoong (Veg) - Spicy papaya salad, a popular Lao dish that consists of shredded green papaya, tomatoes, garlic, chilies, and lime juice.
6. Gaeng Nor Mai (Veg) - Bamboo shoot soup made with a rich and spicy broth, typically also including mushrooms and optional addition of meat (can be made vegetarian).
7. Khao Jee (Veg) - Lao-style baguette sandwich, a legacy of French colonialism, which can be stuffed with various fillings including vegetables and Lao-style omelette.
8. Sai Oua (Non-Veg) - Lao sausage, bursting with herbs like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal, typically made with pork.
9. Sticky Rice (Khao Niew) (Veg) - A staple in Lao meals, eaten with hands and used to dip into other dishes like sauces and savory stews.
Fruits (Veg) - Tropical fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and lychees are abundant in Luang Prabang and make for a refreshing natural dessert or snack.

Top Famous Restaurants in Wat Xieng Thong, Luang Prabang, Laos

Tamarind - Kingkitsarath Rd, Luang Prabang, Laos

- Famous for its Lao tasting platters which can come in vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

Café Toui - Sisavangvong Rd, Luang Prabang, Laos

- Known for authentic Lao flavors, offers dishes like Or Lam and Khao Soi, with non-veg options.

Dyen Sabai Restaurant - Ban Phan Luang, Luang Prabang, Laos

- Popular for its Laap selections, available in non-veg versions such as chicken.

L'Elephant Restaurant - Ban Vat Nong, Luang Prabang, Laos

- Offers a French and Lao fusion menu, with both veg and non-veg options.

Coconut Garden - Sisavangvong Rd, Luang Prabang, Laos

- Famed for its Traditional Lao set menu, caters to both veggie lovers and non-veg diners.