1. Vientiane
As the capital city of Laos, Vientiane attracts a plethora of tourists who come to explore its rich history, unique culture, and delectable local cuisine. Although Laos’ cuisine has been influenced by its neighboring country, Thailand, it still manages to preserve its distinctiveness.
The city of Vientiane offers visitors a variety of food options, ranging from authentic traditional Lao dishes to fusion menus that incorporate a blend of Asian, French, and Western styles. As a result, the culinary scene in Vientiane is vibrant and diverse.
Here’s our guide to the top 10 must-try Vientiane restaurants that will satisfy your appetite and leave you wanting more.
2. The Ultimate Guide to Vientiane Restaurants: Top 10 Places to Eat
2.1. Lao Kitchen
In Vientiane, Lao Kitchen is among the top Vientiane restaurant to savor the authentic taste of traditional Laotian cuisine. With a minimalist open-front design, the Vientiane restaurant offers a comprehensive menu that highlights the best of Laos’ culinary delights. To fully appreciate the diverse flavors, we recommend ordering an array of dishes. Don’t miss out on the highly praised fish or wild mushroom lamb, grilled Mekong fish, and mango sticky rice.
- Location: Rue Hengboun, Vientiane 0100, Laos
- Open: Daily from 11 am to 10 pm
- Phone: +856 21 254 332
“Beautiful garden. Good food. Peaceful atmosphere. A hidden gem in the hustle & bustle of Vientiane. Spots like this need to be preserved.” – Brian Bunge (Google Review)
2.2. Kualao Restaurant
For an exceptional dining experience, make your way to Kualao Restaurant, situated on a floating platform over the Mekong River. Located in a charming old colonial house, the Vientiane restaurant offers authentic Laotian fare in a stunning setting. This Vientiane restaurant also hosts traditional Lao dance and music performances by the National Dance Troupe – make sure to arrive early or call ahead to request a seat near the stage for an unforgettable evening.
- Location: 134 Rue Samsenthai, Vientiane, Laos
- Open: Daily from 11am to 2pm and from 6pm to 10pm
- Phone: +856 21 215 777
“The menu is extensive and offers many authentic Lao dishes. The 2 dishes we chose were delicious. The staff are friendly and attentive. The prices are very reasonable. There was a very nice performance of Lao music and dancing. The place was almost full on a Thursday evening, mostly with Lao people. We will definitely be back.” – John Geoghegan (Google Review)
2.3. L’Adresse de Tinay
A cozy bistro that offers a fusion of Lao and French cuisine, using fresh, local ingredients to create innovative dishes. If you are looking for an upscale dining experience in Vientiane, L’Addresse is the perfect choice. This Vientiane restaurant allows you to immerse yourself in the city’s rich French history while enjoying exceptional cuisine. The restaurant’s innovative dishes use fresh, local ingredients, and its intimate ambiance and attentive service make it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or small group gathering.
- Location: Wat Ong Teu, Vientiane, Laos
- Open: Daily from 11.30am to 10pm
- Phone: +856 20 56 913 434
“A gem in the middle of Vientiane busiest road. The restaurant is an escape from Vientiane busy street. Foods are nicely cooked and comes with a big portion” – Nat Latthida (Google Review)
2.4. Kong View Restaurant
Kong View Restaurant offers a picturesque location to relish breathtaking vistas of the Mekong River while savoring a delectable range of Laotian, Thai, and European delicacies. The establishment boasts wooden decor and elegant lighting, creating a laid-back and inviting atmosphere. Half of the restaurant is located outside in a beautiful garden area overlooking the river, while the other half provides the comfort of air conditioning inside the main building. This Vientiane restaurant allows patrons to choose between the scenic outdoor setting or the cozy indoor ambiance.
- Location: 183 Souphanouvong Road, Vientiane, Laos
- Open: Daily from 8am to 11pm
- Phone: +856 21 243 686
“Excellent restaurant!
There are a great atmosphere, food and services. The taste is similar as the Thai restaurant. Then, a lot of tourists had a dinner here but, there still provided a good management. I can tell this is a one of my best restaurants in Vientiane. Strongly recommend??” – Joun (Google Review)
2.5. Khop Chai Deu
Khop Chai Deu is a popular Vientiane restaurant among both locals and tourists. The restaurant’s extensive menu features a range of Lao and international dishes, and its lively outdoor setting and friendly service make it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner.
- Location: 54 Sethathirat Road, Namphou, Vientiane, Laos
- Open: Daily from 8am to 11pm
- Phone: +856 30 58 46 644
“Absolutely awesome find, a contemporary bar experience. Very friendly staff, good prices and an extensive menu. I had the Larb, a local dish , new to me and it was outstanding. Good choice for the vegetarians out there, not too sure for Vegans. If this was my local I’d be here a lot. A must try on your visit.” – Steve Orrick (Google Review)
2.6. Villa Opera
Villa Opera is a charming French restaurant in the heart of Vientiane, housed in a beautifully renovated colonial-style villa. The menu features classic French dishes with exquisite attention to detail, such as escargots de Bourgogne and boeuf bourguignon. Guests can dine indoors or outside on the terrace, enjoying impeccable service and a romantic ambiance.
- Location: 42 Rue Panya Sri Si Thane Nuea, Vientiane 0100 Laos
- Open: Daily from 11am to 2pm and from 6pm to 10pm
- Phone: +856 21 215 099
“I really like the meat steak because it’s very soft and delicious. Then, the atmosphere is fantastic which is suitable for a dinner! Service is excellent but, only thing that why I give 4 stars due to the price is quite high. I think I will come here again in future.” – Joun (Google Review)
2.7. May Yuan Restaurant
May Yuan Restaurant is a popular Chinese eatery in the heart of Vientiane, offering an authentic taste of China with an extensive menu of traditional dishes. This Vientiane restaurant is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, with elegant decor and comfortable seating. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in delicious and authentic Chinese cuisine.
- Location: Lao Plaza Hotel, 63 Samsenthai Road, Vientiane, Laos
- Open: Daily from 11am to 9pm
- Phone: +856 21 218 800
“Good food and service
We went for a reunion, a group of nine people. The decor was excellent and the service very good. The food was good but not great. But it was an enjoyable experience.” – Donald Keo (Tripadvisor)
2.8. Tamnak Lao restaurant
Tamnak Lao is a highly-regarded Vientiane restaurant, offering traditional Laotian cuisine in a beautiful setting. The restaurant is housed in a stunning colonial building, with a spacious outdoor terrace that provides a relaxed and elegant dining experience. Tamnak Lao’s menu features a wide range of authentic Laotian dishes, including the popular papaya salad, grilled fish, and sticky rice. The restaurant’s warm and friendly service, along with its tranquil ambiance, make it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
- Location: Rue 23 Singha, Vientiane, Laos
- Open: Daily from 11am to 2pm and 6pm to 9pm
- Phone: +856 21 413 562
“Fabulous meal
Our last meal in Laos and one of the best meals we had. We were on a Wendy Wu group tour Highlights of Indochina.” – Anne L (TripAdvisor)
2.9. Bor Pen Nyang
Bor Pen Nyang is a trendy rooftop bar and Vientiane restaurant with a stunning view of the Mekong River and Vientiane city center. The ambiance of the venue transforms throughout the day, offering a relaxed bar with pool tables, a rooftop terrace for watching the sunset, and a lively club popular among backpackers. The menu features a fusion of Laotian and international cuisine, with a focus on fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night spot or a fun night out with friends, Bor Pen Nyang is a must-visit Vientiane restaurant.
- Location: Quai Fa Ngum, Vientiane, Laos
- Open: Daily from 10am to midnight
- Phone: +856 20 59 959 796
“Very clean and well kept premises where small lively groups meet. Food was nice and value-priced. Staff were polite. The menu is in Lao and an English version is provided. They are open late, till 11:30 pm.” – Colin McKay (Google Review)
2.10. That Dam Wine House
With a view of Vientiane’s illuminated ancient black stupa, That Dam Wine House is a popular Vientiane restaurant offering a mix of Laotian and European cuisine, along with a diverse wine cellar. Must-tries on the menu include Lao-style fried rice, red curry, lamb tenderloin, and duck breast with orange sauce. Guests can enjoy the serene and secluded terrace, which is surrounded by lush greenery.
- Location: 339 Rue Pangkham, Vientiane, Laos
- Open: Daily from 10am to 10pm
- Phone: +856 21 217 368
“Good food, good service and impressive wine choice at good value prices. Recommended fro a food and wine connoisseur traveller to Vientiane, thus likely as good as you can demand here.” – CELAB 99 (Google Review)
3.Must-Try Foods in Vientiane: Delicious Dishes to Savor in Laos’ Capital
3.1. Meat Salad- Larb
Larb, also known as Laap or Meat Salad, is a popular dish in Lao cuisine that features minced meat, usually chicken, beef or pork, mixed with herbs, lime juice, chili flakes, and toasted rice powder. The name means “good luck” and “prosperity” as the meat was expensive and rare.
3.2. Sticky rice- Klao niaw
Sticky rice is a popular accompaniment to almost every Laotian dish, but it’s so delicious that it can be enjoyed on its own. This moist, fluffy, and glutinous rice is traditionally eaten using the hands. The taste is so delightful that one might want to have it with every meal when go to Vientiane restaurants.
3.3. Mekong catfish
Mekong catfish, or Pa Beuk in Lao, is a highly popular and delicious fish dish in Vientiane. It is a freshwater fish found in the Mekong River and is a staple in Lao cuisine. The fish has a firm and meaty texture, and its flavor is enhanced with a simple marinade of garlic, lemongrass, and fish sauce. It’s a must-try dish for any visitor to Vientiane restaurants who wants to experience the local cuisine.
3.4. Laotian grilled chicken
Laotian grilled chicken, also known as ping gai, is a popular street food in Laos. The chicken is marinated in a flavorful blend of lemongrass, garlic, and other spices, then grilled over charcoal for a smoky and delicious taste. The dish is often served with sticky rice and a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice, chili, and garlic. Laotian grilled chicken can be found in street markets and Vientiane restaurants throughout Laos, and is a must-try for anyone visiting the country.
3.5. Sien Savanh
Sien Savanh, also known as Lao beef jerky, is a popular snack in Laos that has gained international recognition for its unique taste and texture. Made from marinated beef that is then sun-dried, Sien Savanh is known for its chewy texture and flavorful spices. It is typically served as a snack or appetizer and is a common item at local markets in Laos. Sien Savanh has become a popular souvenir for tourists visiting Laos and is often packaged in small, convenient bags for easy transport.
You can explore Vientiane restaurants through our tour below:
- Vientiane & Central Laos Adventure
- Mysteries Revealed
- The Northern Laos Legends
- Laos Reveal
- Laos Nature & Culture
4. Conclusion
Vientiane has a diverse range of dining options, as shown by the ten Vientiane restaurants featured in this guide. From traditional Laotian cuisine to French fine dining, each Vientiane restaurant offers a unique experience. Make sure to add them to your list when planning your visit to Vientiane. Please contact Metta Voyage for additional information, and allow us to assist you in creating an unforgettable journey to Vientiane.
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