The Best Things to Eat and Drink in Laos

Laos, a Southeast Asian country known for its scenic landscapes, serene temples, and rich cultural heritage, also boasts a unique culinary tradition that has been shaped by geography, history, and local ingredients.

The Laotian cuisine is a harmonious blend of flavors — from the tartness of lime to the fiery kick of chili, from the freshness of herbs to the earthy depth of fermented ingredients.

Whether you are sitting at a humble street-side stall or dining in a traditional restaurant, the food of Laos is a journey into the heart of the country's culture.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best dishes and drinks in Laos, offering you a taste of what makes the Laotian dining experience unforgettable.

Essential Ingredients in Laotian Cuisine

Before we delve into specific dishes, it’s important to understand some of the key ingredients that define Laotian cuisine.

Sticky Rice (Khao Niew)

Sticky rice, or Khao Niew, is the cornerstone of every Laotian meal. Laos consumes more sticky rice per capita than any other country, earning it the nickname “the land of sticky rice.” The rice is steamed and eaten with the hands, usually accompanied by various side dishes. It’s the base for both savory meals and desserts.

Fermented Fish (Padaek)

Laotian cuisine uses Padaek, a chunky and deeply flavored fermented fish sauce, in many dishes. Unlike the smooth fish sauce common in Vietnamese and Thai food, Padaek is thicker, almost like a paste, and has an intense umami flavor that brings depth to soups, salads, and dipping sauces.

Herbs and Vegetables

Fresh herbs such as mint, coriander, and dill are heavily used in Laotian cooking, as are local vegetables like bamboo shoots, banana flowers, and water spinach. These herbs and vegetables lend brightness and freshness to many dishes.

Traditional Laotian Dishes You Must Try

Laos has a range of dishes that reflect its agricultural roots and reliance on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Here are some of the must-try dishes when you're in Laos.

Laap (Larb)

Perhaps the most iconic dish of Laos, Laap (sometimes spelled as Larb) is a minced meat salad that can be made with chicken, beef, pork, duck, or fish. The meat is cooked and then mixed with lime juice, fish sauce, herbs (such as mint and coriander), and toasted ground rice for a crunchy texture. It’s often served with raw vegetables and sticky rice, making for a refreshing yet hearty meal. Traditionally, Laap is also served raw, but tourists often opt for the cooked version.

Tam Mak Hoong (Papaya Salad)

Similar to Thailand’s Som Tum, Tam Mak Hoong is Laos' version of papaya salad. It’s a fiery, sour, and slightly sweet salad made from shredded green papaya, tomatoes, lime, chilies, garlic, and peanuts. The Laotian version also incorporates fermented fish sauce (Padaek), giving it a more intense, savory flavor compared to its Thai counterpart. This salad is a perfect example of Laos' love for strong, contrasting flavors.

Or Lam (Laotian Stew)

Or Lam is a rich, hearty stew that originates from Luang Prabang, one of the culinary capitals of Laos. It’s typically made with chicken or beef, and the broth is flavored with lemongrass, chili, and a unique ingredient called sakhaan (a peppery vine). The stew also includes eggplants, mushrooms, and fresh greens. The combination of herbs and spices gives the dish a spicy and slightly bitter flavor that sets it apart from other Southeast Asian stews.

Khao Piak Sen (Rice Noodle Soup)

For those who enjoy comforting soups, Khao Piak Sen is a must-try. This Laotian rice noodle soup is similar to Vietnamese pho but has its own distinct flavors. The broth is made from chicken or pork, and the noodles are fresh, thick, and chewy. The soup is garnished with fresh herbs, fried garlic, lime, and sometimes a boiled egg. This simple yet flavorful dish is commonly eaten for breakfast or lunch.

Mok Pa (Steamed Fish in Banana Leaves)

Mok Pa is a traditional Laotian dish that involves fish marinated in herbs and spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed. The fish is often mixed with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and dill, resulting in a fragrant and flavorful meal. It’s usually served with sticky rice and a variety of dipping sauces.

Khao Jee Sandwich

Khao Jee is Laos’ take on the French baguette, a remnant of its colonial past. This sandwich is similar to the Vietnamese Banh Mi, filled with ingredients like pâté, pork, lettuce, cucumber, and chili sauce. It’s a popular street food snack, especially in Vientiane, where vendors sell them early in the morning and late into the evening.

Sai Oua (Laotian Sausage)

Sai Oua is a traditional Laotian sausage made from minced pork, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chilies. The sausage is grilled and served with sticky rice and dipping sauces. The aromatic herbs give the sausage a fresh, zesty flavor, while the grilling adds a smoky richness.

Laotian Drinks: What to Sip Alongside Your Meal

Just as important as the food are the drinks in Laos. Whether you’re looking for something refreshing to cool down from the tropical heat or something with a little kick to accompany your meal, Laos has a variety of beverages that complement its cuisine.

Beerlao

Beerlao is one of the most well-known exports from Laos and is widely regarded as one of the best beers in Southeast Asia. Brewed from locally grown rice and malt imported from France, Beerlao has a crisp and light flavor that pairs perfectly with the spicy and aromatic dishes of Laotian cuisine. It’s available in both lager and dark varieties, and it’s the drink of choice for most locals and tourists alike.

Lao-Lao (Rice Whiskey)

Lao-Lao is the traditional Laotian rice whiskey, made from fermented sticky rice. It’s strong and often consumed in small shots, particularly during celebrations and social gatherings. Many local villages produce their own versions of Lao-Lao, some of which are smoother and more refined, while others can be quite fiery. It’s common to be offered a glass of Lao-Lao as a gesture of hospitality when visiting rural areas.

Nam Oi (Sugarcane Juice)

For a non-alcoholic option, Nam Oi, or sugarcane juice, is a refreshing drink that is popular throughout Laos. The juice is extracted from freshly crushed sugarcane and served over ice. It’s naturally sweet and thirst-quenching, making it a perfect drink for hot days.

Coconut Water

In Laos, fresh coconut water is readily available and commonly sold by street vendors. The water is extracted from young coconuts, and it’s served right out of the coconut shell, providing a hydrating and slightly sweet drink. It’s a natural, healthy option that complements spicy Laotian dishes well.

Tamarind Juice

Tamarind juice is a popular beverage in Laos, offering a balance of sweet and sour flavors. Tamarind, a pod-like fruit, is boiled and strained to make the juice, which is then sweetened and sometimes spiced. It’s often served chilled and can be found in many local markets.

Street Food in Laos: A Culinary Adventure

Laotian street food is an integral part of the country’s dining culture. Whether you’re exploring the night markets of Luang Prabang or walking the streets of Vientiane, you’ll find a wide array of snacks and meals that are both affordable and delicious.

Grilled Meats

Grilled meats, or Ping, are ubiquitous in Laotian street food. Chicken, pork, and fish are marinated in a mix of lemongrass, garlic, and chilies, then grilled over an open flame. The result is smoky, tender meat that’s often served with a side of sticky rice and dipping sauces.

Fried Spring Rolls

Laotian Fried Spring Rolls are crispy, golden rolls filled with a mixture of pork, glass noodles, and vegetables. They are served with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce, making them a popular snack at street markets.

Khanom Krok (Coconut Pancakes)

For a sweet treat, Khanom Krok are little coconut pancakes that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Made from rice flour and coconut milk, these bite-sized desserts are lightly sweetened and often topped with spring onions or corn for a savory twist.

Lao Pho

Laos has its own version of the famous Vietnamese pho. Lao Pho is a comforting bowl of noodle soup with a rich broth, slices of meat, and plenty of fresh herbs. Street vendors in Vientiane and Luang Prabang serve this dish with optional toppings such as lime, chilies, and bean sprouts.

Laotian Desserts: A Sweet Ending

Laotian desserts are simple but satisfying, often revolving around coconut, rice, and tropical fruits. While not as well-known as the desserts of neighboring Thailand, Laotian sweets are a delightful way to end a meal.

Khao Tom (Sticky Rice with Banana)

Khao Tom is a dessert made from sticky rice, coconut milk, and banana, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. It’s mildly sweet and has a soft, chewy texture, making it a popular snack or dessert.

Nam Varn (Sweet Soups)

Laotians love Nam Varn, a sweet soup made from coconut milk, sugar, and various ingredients such as tapioca pearls, palm seeds, and fruit. This dessert soup is usually served cold and is especially refreshing in the hot climate.

Experience the authentic tastes of Laos

Laotian cuisine offers an extraordinary culinary experience, rich with flavors that reflect the country's diverse landscapes and cultural influences.

From the iconic sticky rice to the fiery Laap salad, and from refreshing coconut water to the bold Lao-Lao whiskey, the food and drinks of Laos are both satisfying and full of character.

Whether you’re a fan of spicy, sour, sweet, or savory flavors, there’s something in Laotian cuisine to satisfy every palate.

So, the next time you find yourself in Laos, be sure to indulge in the country's culinary delights for an authentic taste of this Southeast Asian gem.