Published on May 22, 2025
Lao PDR may be a landlocked country, but it’s bursting with rich, fresh, and vibrant flavours. Lao cuisine is known for its bold use of herbs, fermented ingredients, and the central role of sticky rice in every meal. From humble riverside eateries to bustling local markets and upscale restaurants, there’s no better way to experience Lao culture than through its food. Here are four Laotian dishes you must try when visiting Lao PDR—and the best places to eat them across the country.
Larb (Laap)
Larb is a minced meat salad made with chicken, pork, beef, duck, or fish tossed with lime juice, fish sauce, mint, roasted rice powder, and chilli. It’s fresh, tangy, and spicy—best enjoyed with sticky rice and raw vegetables.
Where to Eat It:
• Tamarind Restaurant – Luang Prabang
Located near the Nam Khan River, Tamarind offers an upscale yet authentic take on Lao cuisine. Their larb is well-balanced, fragrant, and made with locally sourced ingredients.
• Ban Phosy Market – Luang Prabang
For the authentic local experience, try the larb sold by market vendors in the morning. You’ll find rustic, home-style versions that showcase traditional cooking techniques.
Khao Soi
Not to be confused with the Thai version, Lao khao soi is a tomato-based noodle soup made with hand-cut rice noodles, minced pork, fermented soybean paste, and herbs. It’s hearty and comforting, with a savoury depth unique to Laos.
Where to Eat It:
• Khao Soi Luang Prabang – Luang Prabang Old Town
This humble eatery specialises in just one dish—and does it exceptionally well. Their khao soi is rich, aromatic, and topped with crunchy vegetables and herbs.
• Nang Kham Restaurant – Phonsavan
A local favourite in Xieng Khouang Province, known for its rustic style and generous portions. Try the khao soi with a local beer for a truly authentic experience.
• Makphet Restaurant – Vientiane
A socially responsible restaurant that trains young people in hospitality. Their khao soi has a polished presentation but stays true to traditional flavours.
Or Lam
Or Lam is a thick, spicy stew originating in Luang Prabang. Made with buffalo meat or chicken, lemongrass, eggplant, wood ear mushrooms, chilli, and the signature ingredient—Sakhalin (a spicy, numbing pepperwood vine)—this dish is deeply comforting and full of earthy, herbal flavours.
Where to Eat It:
Tucked away across the bamboo bridge, this atmospheric restaurant offers an excellent version of or Lam in a cosy, traditional setting.
• Kualao Restaurant – Vientiane
Located in a historic colonial building, Kualao offers an upscale dining experience with beautifully prepared traditional dishes, such as lam and mok pa.
• Local Homes in Nong Khiaw (via homestay experience)
In this peaceful riverside village, homestay families often prepare or lam using ingredients foraged from the surrounding forests—offering one of the most authentic versions you can find.
Khao Jee
A legacy of French colonialism with a Lao twist, khao jee is a crispy baguette filled with pork pâté, grilled meats, pickled vegetables, herbs, and spicy sauce. Think of it as the Lao cousin to Vietnam’s bánh mì.
Where to Eat It:
• Morning Market – Luang Prabang
Along the main street and around the morning market, vendors sell freshly made khao jee from mobile carts. It’s a perfect grab-and-go breakfast.
• Joma Bakery Café – Vientiane & Luang Prabang
A favourite café among travellers and ex-pats, Joma serves a modern take on khao jee with high-quality ingredients and freshly baked bread.
• Khao Jee Sandwich Carts – Pakse Night Market
These night market vendors offer endless variations of the Lao baguette sandwich, often served warm and dripping with chilli mayo.
Start Your Lao PDR Culinary Adventure
Lao cuisine is an invitation to explore—from savoury stews and herb-packed salads to noodle soups and baguette sandwiches, each dish reflects a blend of tradition, geography, and community. Whether you’re wandering through a market in Luang Prabang or dining on the riverside in Vientiane, the flavours of Laos will leave a lasting impression.
Ready to taste your way through Laos? Book your trip now and dive into the unforgettable culinary experiences that Lao PDR has to offer!
