Vientiane Food Guide | Your Ultimate Culinary Adventure in Laos

Ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure? Welcome to Vientiane, the captivating capital of Laos, a city where culinary delights await at every turn. If you’re wondering what to eat in Vientiane, prepare to be amazed! This guide dives deep into the heart of Laotian cuisine, offering a vibrant tapestry of flavors from fragrant curries to fresh herbs and delicate noodles. Forget any preconceptions you might have; Vientiane’s food scene is a true treasure trove. From must-try local specialties to navigating dining etiquette, understanding unique ingredients, and uncovering some fun facts, this guide is your ultimate passport to a truly unforgettable culinary journey through Vientiane. Get ready to eat your way through this Southeast Asian gem!

A Taste of Vientiane: Unforgettable Local Specialties

Prepare for a culinary journey through the heart of Laos. Here are some of the most popular and iconic dishes that define Laotian cuisine:

Laap (ลาบ) – The National Dish: Minced Meat Salad

Description: Laap is far more than just a dish; it’s the national treasure of Laos! This vibrant salad is made with minced meat – chicken, pork, beef, or even duck – meticulously seasoned with a zesty blend of lime juice, the savory depth of fish sauce, fiery chilies, refreshing mint, and a generous helping of toasted ground rice. This toasted rice gives it a wonderfully nutty texture, that perfectly balances the other flavors. It can be served either raw or cooked depending on the region. The interplay of textures and refreshing flavors makes it an irresistible and quintessentially Lao dish.
Origin/History: Laap’s origins are rooted in the northern parts of Laos, but over time it has spread and become a staple across the entire country. Historically, the dish was often made with game meat, a reflection of the hunter-gatherer traditions that were prevalent in the area.
Where to Find It: You’ll find authentic Laap in traditional local restaurants and casual eateries.

Khao Piak Sen (ເຂົ້າປຽກເສັ້ນ) – Lao Rice Noodle Soup: Comfort in a Bowl

Description: This comforting soup is a Vientiane favorite, and features thick, chewy rice noodles bathing in a savory broth, often made with chicken or pork. The dish is usually served with a variety of flavorful toppings, including minced meat, a kick of garlic, fiery chilies, a squeeze of fresh lime, and a generous scattering of fresh herbs. The noodles are made fresh, by hand, which means you’re in for a treat! The broth has a smooth, creamy mouthfeel that adds to the dish’s comforting nature.
Origin/History: Khao Piak Sen is a popular breakfast and anytime-of-day meal across Laos, and the word “piak” actually refers to the glutinous texture of the rice noodles.
Where to Find It: Enjoy Khao Piak Sen in a bustling street food stall or a local noodle shop, ideally in the morning.

Tam Mak Hoong (ຕໍາໝາກຫຸ່ງ) – Green Papaya Salad: A Spicy Delight

Description: This vibrant and refreshing salad, also known as som tam in Thailand, is a must-try for any food lover. It consists of shredded green papaya, juicy tomatoes, crisp green beans, crunchy peanuts, a zing of garlic, fiery chilies, the savory depth of fish sauce, and the tang of lime juice, all pounded together with precision in a mortar and pestle. The result is a spicy, sour, and subtly sweet dish, with a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Origin/History: While popular throughout Southeast Asia, the Lao version is often known for its slightly sweeter profile compared to the Thai version.
Where to Find It: You can find this dish in a bustling local market or from a street-side vendor, especially those with a little thatched roof.

Mok Pa (ໝົກປາ) – Steamed Fish in Banana Leaves: A Delicate Experience

Description: Mok Pa involves a whole fish, coated in a fragrant mixture of lemongrass, galangal, and other aromatic herbs, and then delicately steamed in banana leaves. The leaves themselves impart a subtle, almost ethereal flavor to the already tender and flaky fish. The result is a healthy, flavorful, and incredibly delicious culinary experience that you won’t forget.
Origin/History: Mok Pa is a traditional cooking method that has been used to preserve both the flavor and moisture of the fish, while at the same time imparting a distinctive aroma that cannot be found elsewhere.
Where to Find It: Seek it out in a riverside restaurant or a family-run eatery that’s committed to preserving the tradition of Laotian cuisine.

Or Lam (ອໍລາມ) – Stewed Vegetables with Herbs and Buffalo Meat: A Taste of Luang Prabang

Description: This is a flavorful stew made with a blend of vegetables like eggplants, mushrooms, and green beans, along with tender buffalo meat. What truly sets Or Lam apart is the unique use of sa kan, a local herb with distinct peppery and numbing qualities. This herb adds a unique dimension of flavor, creating an exciting and authentic meal that reflects the region’s heritage.
Origin/History: The dish originates from Luang Prabang. It’s the perfect example of how locals have used what grows around them to cook meals.
Where to Find It: You will often find it in a local restaurant, since it requires a unique variety of vegetables, that can sometimes be difficult to source.

Sai Oua (ໄສ້ອົ່ວ) – Lao Sausage: A Flavorful Snack or Meal

Description: Sai Oua is a rich and flavorful sausage, and it’s made with minced pork, a blend of aromatic herbs such as lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. It’s also seasoned with a variety of spices, and often includes a subtle touch of chili. The sausage is then grilled over charcoal until it is slightly charred on the outside, and served with sticky rice. The rich and satisfying flavor makes it a popular snack or meal on its own.
Origin/History: Sai Oua is a Northern Lao specialty, often made using family recipes that have been passed down through generations.
Where to Find It: Find it in a local market or as a snack with a variety of other dishes at any establishment.

Sticky Rice (ເຂົ້າໜຽວ) – A Staple of Every Meal

Description: Sticky rice, known as khao niew in Lao, is a must-have accompaniment to almost every meal. It is a type of glutinous rice that is steamed and served in a woven bamboo basket. Eaten by hand, diners roll it into small balls, and then dip them into sauces and eat them with their main dishes. It is an integral part of Laotian cuisine.
Origin/History: Sticky rice is a staple food across Southeast Asia, with origins dating back thousands of years.
Where to Find It: Sticky rice is served in every restaurant and is also available from street vendors and markets.

Dining Etiquette and Cultural Norms in Vientiane

Respecting local customs is key to enhancing your dining experience in Vientiane. Here’s what you need to know:

Tipping: Tipping isn’t expected, but it’s appreciated for good service. You can round up the bill, or leave a small tip of around 5-10%, and this is a nice gesture, especially in tourist areas or for truly exceptional service. Most people in Laos wouldn’t tip, but it is not frowned upon, and is often done in larger cities.
Greetings: It’s polite to greet staff with a wai – a slight bow with hands pressed together – and a simple “Sabaidee” (hello) when entering a restaurant. Always smile and make gentle eye contact to show respect. When leaving or receiving your food, it is customary to say “Khop chai” (thank you).
Table Manners: Generally, you’ll want to use a fork and spoon. Chopsticks are also common, especially for noodles and some other dishes. Use the spoon and fork for your food, and if chopsticks are provided, use them appropriately. If you use chopsticks, never stick them into the bowl.
Sharing Food: Sharing food from communal dishes is a common practice and shows that you’re enjoying yourself and are comfortable. Use the serving spoons that are provided, and avoid double-dipping into the food.
Pace of Dining: Meals in Laos are often relaxed and leisurely affairs. Avoid rushing. Take your time and enjoy the company you’re with, and the food that you have in front of you. It is common to have a variety of courses, and a leisurely atmosphere.
Attire: You should dress casually for most restaurants. If you’re going to a fine dining establishment, consider dressing up slightly. Avoid overly revealing clothing, especially when visiting temples or local communities. People have different attitudes towards attire here, you should be mindful of this.
Common Dining Times: Lunch is typically eaten between 12:00 and 1:00 PM, and dinner is usually from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Many restaurants in Laos close between lunch and dinner services.
Bread and Water: You’ll often find that bread and water are provided at restaurants. Bread is more of a tourist offering, but water is almost always served. Even if you don’t order water, it may still be served, since people often drink water at all times.
Getting the Waiter’s Attention: To get a waiter’s attention, a polite wave or a gentle “Excuse me” (which you can say in English) is usually sufficient. Avoid shouting or whistling.
Conversation: The people in Laos are generally friendly and welcoming, and will gladly engage in conversation. It is best to avoid topics such as politics and religion.
Photos of Food: Taking photos of food is generally accepted. Be respectful and be aware of your surroundings.

Key Local Ingredients in Vientiane Cuisine

These key ingredients are fundamental to the authentic flavors of Lao cuisine:

Lemongrass (ຫົວສີໄຄ, hua si khai): This fragrant herb is used in curries, soups, and marinades, imparting a bright citrusy aroma and flavor to everything it touches.
- If you can’t find it… Use lemon zest or a small amount of lime zest to approximate the flavor.
Galangal (ຂ່າ, kha): Similar to ginger but with a more pine-like flavor profile, galangal is a critical ingredient in many Lao curries and stews.
- If you can’t find it… Ginger can be used as a substitute, but the flavors are not the same.
Fish Sauce (ປາແດກ, pa daek): This salty and pungent sauce is a staple in Lao cuisine, used in almost every dish to add umami and depth.
- If you can’t find it… While soy sauce can be used in a pinch, the flavor will be vastly different. Try to seek out fish sauce from an Asian supermarket for best results.
Kaffir Lime Leaves (ໃບໝາກກູດ, bai mak koud): These aromatic leaves are used in curries, soups, and stir-fries, adding a distinct and complex citrusy aroma.
- If you can’t find it… Use lime zest, but understand that it won’t provide the same depth of flavor.
Jasmine Rice (ເຂົ້າຫອມ, khao hom): This is the preferred rice type, especially for sticky rice. It’s fragrant, fluffy, and perfect for soaking up flavorful sauces.
- If you can’t find it… You can use other types of long-grain rice if you need, but jasmine rice is definitely worth seeking out for the perfect Laotian experience!

5 Surprising Facts You May Not Know About Vientiane

Here’s a bit more about the city of Vientiane:

Vientiane is known for being one of the most laid-back capital cities in the entire world. It is known for its serene atmosphere, slow pace of life, and calm vibe.
The city can be quite hot. A surprising fact is that in Lao, there are over 60 recorded distinct dialects, which vary greatly depending on the region.
Vientiane has a number of traditional markets, and the area is known for its silks, which are exported around the world.
The French colonial influence is still clearly visible in Vientiane’s architecture, especially in the government buildings and along the Mekong river.
Boun Pi Mai (Lao New Year) is a massive celebration, with water fights and activities throughout the city.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vientiane Food

Here’s everything you need to know:

Are reservations required at most restaurants? Reservations are not generally required for casual restaurants, but it’s always a good idea to book a table for fine dining or more popular restaurants, especially during peak tourist seasons or on weekends.

Is it safe to drink the tap water in Vientiane? No, it is not safe to drink tap water. You should always drink bottled water, or water that has been filtered. You should also only use bottled water when brushing your teeth.

What is the best way to find authentic local food markets? Ask locals for recommendations, or explore the local markets. You can also search on Google maps.

Are there any food-related festivals I should know about? Lao New Year (Pi Mai Lao) is a major celebration, and involves lots of street food and special dishes. Many other festivals will also have an impact on food, such as boat racing and harvest festivals.

How do I ask for the bill in Lao? You can ask for the bill by saying “Kep ngern dai bor” (Can I have the bill?).

Conclusion: Savoring the Flavors of Vientiane

From the aromatic Laap to the comforting Khao Piak Sen, Vientiane’s culinary landscape is a journey of discovery that will tantalize your senses. We hope that this guide has helped to whet your appetite, and has equipped you with everything you need to confidently explore the delicious offerings of this captivating city. So, get out there, try these amazing dishes, and immerse yourself in the food and the culture of Vientiane! Don’t forget to share your favourite Vientiane food experiences and recommendations in the comments below!