Eat like a local in Laos — bold, fresh, unforgettable.
A journey through taste
Laos might not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of Southeast Asian cuisine — but once you’ve tried its food, you won’t forget it.
Deeply rooted in tradition, Lao food is about freshness, fire, and fermentation. Every dish tells a story, every bite reveals a layer of culture.
Here are 5 must-try Lao dishes for your next culinary adventure:
1. Laap (Larb) — The national treasure 🇱🇦
Minced meat salad never sounded so exciting. Laap is made with chicken, beef, pork, or fish, mixed with lime juice, fish sauce, roasted rice powder, herbs, and chili.
It’s zesty, spicy, and deeply satisfying.
Pro tip: Eat it with sticky rice for the real experience.
2. Tam Mak Hoong — Papaya salad, Lao-style 🥗
You may know Thai papaya salad — but the Lao version hits different.
Less sweet, more earthy, and often fermented, it’s made with shredded green papaya, garlic, chili, lime, and fermented fish sauce or crab paste.
Warning: It’s not for the faint-hearted — but it’s worth the kick.
3. Khao Niew — Sticky rice as a lifestyle 🍚
In Laos, sticky rice isn’t a side — it’s the main event.
Served in bamboo baskets, it’s eaten by hand, rolled into small balls to scoop up sauces, meats, and salads.
It’s also incredibly filling and grounding — a true staple of Lao daily life.
4. Or Lam — Hearty stew from Luang Prabang 🍲
Rich, thick, and a little spicy.
Or Lam is a traditional stew made with buffalo meat or chicken, eggplant, mushrooms, lemongrass, chili wood (yes, actual wood), and bitter herbs.
It’s a comfort food — warm, slightly smoky, and deeply local.
5. Khao Piak Sen — The ultimate comfort noodle 🍜
Think of it as the Lao chicken noodle soup, but better.
Made with thick, chewy rice noodles in a garlic-rich broth, it’s served with lime, herbs, bean sprouts, and fried shallots.
Simple, satisfying, and perfect for any time of day.
Slow down, eat with your hands, and enjoy
Lao food isn’t just about flavors — it’s about connection. Meals are shared, eaten slowly, and enjoyed with the hands.
If you want to experience Laos, start with the food. These 5 dishes are only the beginning — but they’ll leave a lasting impression.
Ready to taste it for real?
Join one of our small-group trips to Laos and discover authentic flavors, local markets, and real stories behind every bite. 🌿
French 
English