A simple guide for travelers discovering Lao food for the first time
If you’re visiting Laos for the first time, the best way to understand the country is through its food.
Lao cuisine is bold, fresh, herbal, spicy—and completely unique in Southeast Asia.
Here are 10 must-try dishes that every traveler should experience at least once.
The heart of Lao cuisine.
Lao people eat sticky rice with almost every meal.
Try it with: grilled chicken, laap, jeow (dips), soups.
How to eat: use your hands—roll it and dip.
The national dish of Laos.
A fresh, minced meat salad made with herbs, lime, roasted rice powder, and sometimes chili.
Best for: beginners who want authentic flavor without too much spice.
Variations: chicken, beef, fish, duck, mushroom.
Spicy, sour, salty, and addictive.
Note for foreigners:
You can ask for “bo pik” (not spicy) or “lao pik noy” (a little spicy).
A traditional Lao stew from Luang Prabang, filled with herbs, vegetables, and wood ear mushrooms.
Famous for: pepper wood (mai sakhaan) — a spicy, numbing wood.
Soft, fragrant fish steamed with lemongrass, dill, and kaffir lime.
Perfect for: seafood lovers who want a gentle, aromatic dish.
A spicy, coconut-based noodle soup served with fresh herbs.
Fun fact:
Lao people eat this at weddings, festivals, and family gatherings.
Juicy, smoky, marinated chicken grilled the Lao way.
Best eaten with: sticky rice + jeow bong (sweet chili dip).
A flavorful sausage filled with lemongrass, herbs, pork, and chili.
Tip:
Try it grilled—crispy on the outside, aromatic inside.
A famous Luang Prabang chili paste made with chili, garlic, and buffalo skin.
Eat it with: sticky rice, grilled meats, steamed veggies.
Spice level: mild, beginner-friendly.
A crunchy, sour, fresh salad made with crispy rice balls, herbs, and fermented pork.
Perfect for: street food lovers who want something unique.
Different from Thai khao soi—this version is a minced pork tomato stew served over rice noodles.
A must-try if you love deep, savory flavors.
✔ If you can’t eat spicy, say “bor pik lai.”
✔ Lao dishes always come with herbs—eat them! They balance the flavors.
✔ Try sticky rice with everything—it’s part of the experience.
✔ Don’t be afraid to ask locals how to eat a dish. They love sharing.