Laos Food and Drink

While cuisines in Southeast Asia share certain similarities, each country still offers its own culinary uniqueness. Laos is no exception — its food reflects a long history, vibrant local produce, and a strong sense of tradition. A meal in Laos is not just food, it’s an occasion.

Laotians love fresh ingredients and simple, time-tested cooking methods: grilling, frying, stewing, and steaming. Street food here is fast, fresh, and full of flavor — often cooked right in front of your eyes. In rural areas, forget refrigerators: it’s farm-to-fire in a matter of minutes. Expect to eat with your hands, especially sticky rice! 🍚

🍛 Must-Try Dishes on a Laos Tour:

🍚 Laos Sticky Rice – Served in a bamboo basket, sticky rice is the heart of every Lao meal. You’ll roll it into a ball with your hand before dipping it into sauces or pairing with meats.
🥗 Laarb – A zesty minced meat salad (chicken, pork, duck, or fish) with lime juice, ground toasted rice, herbs, and fish sauce. National dish alert!
🍗 Kai Yang – Grilled chicken, best enjoyed with green papaya salad (som tam) and sticky rice.
🥩 Sien Savanh – Marinated beef strips dried in the sun — a perfect beer snack! Expect bold flavors like ginger, fish sauce, garlic, and black pepper.
🌿 Kai Pen – A northern specialty made of river algae from Luang Prabang, dried into thin sheets and sprinkled with sesame seeds.
🍌 Khao Tom – Sticky rice and banana wrapped in banana leaves. Sweet version uses coconut milk; savory ones include pork and beans.
🌭 Som Moo – A fermented pork sausage with a tangy, sour kick.
🍮 Khanom Maw Kaeng – Egg custard dessert, rich and sweet.
🥙 Nam Kaow – Fried rice ball salad with lime juice, green onions, and pork.
🍜 Kaow Paik – Laos-style chicken noodle soup with garlic and shallots.
🥖 Khao Jee – Baguette sandwich filled with meats, veggies, chili, and herbs — a clear French influence.
🍲 Khao Poon – Spicy noodle soup with meat, bean sprouts, mint, and coriander.
🍖 Or Lam – A hearty “jungle stew” made with buffalo, game, eggplants, mushrooms, and chili.

☕ What to Drink in Laos:

☕ Coffee – Introduced by the French, Lao coffee from the Bolaven Plateau is strong and aromatic. Try it with condensed milk for a sweet kick.
🍶 Lao Whisky (Lao Lao) – A locally brewed rice spirit often found in villages. Drink it with caution — it’s stronger than it looks!
🍻 Beerlao – The beloved national beer, perfect with grilled snacks or river fish.
🍵 Green Tea – Often served for free at restaurants — before, during, and after meals. Refreshing and good for digestion.

🌆 Dining Experience

Enjoy a meal on the banks of the Mekong River, with fresh fish and cool breezes. Whether you’re dining at a local stall or a riverside restaurant, food in Laos is always part of the adventure. Join in — and don’t be afraid to eat with your hands!