Dining Out In Vientiane

Vientiane Restaurants

Down by the river is pretty much as lively as it gets in Vientiane. Various chilled-out riverside joints serve traditional Thai and Southeast Asian dishes to be enjoyed while overlooking the Mekong. Some restaurants reside on stilts others are sidewalk based, each offering a different experience of the surrounding area.

There is a distinct European charm when dining out in Vientiane, where you can watch the locals and tourists go about their business; an experience sometimes lost in the more hectic and polluted cities of Hanoi and Bangkok.

Alternatively, the restaurants with river views that overlook the banks of bordering Thailand offer a decidedly unique and relaxed choice for an evening meal – mosquito repellant is a must! The area is also renowned for mouth-watering Indian curry, complete with all the trimmings. Away from the river, dining options are as varied as the eclectic group of travelers that frequent the area.

Where to eat in Vientiane - Vientiane Restaurants

L’Opera

For over ten years L’Opera, has been serving up (arguably) the best Italian food in Vientiane. Featuring homemade egg noodle pasta, 'Pizza Laos' (tomatoes, cheese, chilies and Laos sausage) and daily specials all topped off by delicious wines and a tidy shot of espresso.
On the Fountain Circle, in the centre of town.
Tel: +85621/215-099
Credit Cards: American Express, Visa, Master Card

Khop Chai Deu Food (Translates as- 'Thank you very much')

A favorite with expats, backpackers and tourists, this colonial-style building has a great menu of Laos and international dishes, each page reflecting the different types of customers. For example, the 'Backpacker Page' is where you will find spring rolls and other reliable dishes; likewise the 'Laos Discovery Set' takes you through various short courses of typical Lao dishes. The 'Expatriate Relief Page' is packed with home-cooked favorites such as pizza, pasta and hearty stews.
Southwest of Nam Phu Fountain, Around Town.
Tel: +85621/212-106
Credit Cards: Master Card and Visa

Le Silapa -French, Continental

The chosen eatery of the Australian Prime Minister when he came to town, Le Silapa serves up delectable French cuisine enhanced by the native French chef who adds to the restaurant's warm ambience with his hands-on approach. When confronted with the modest shop-front you will be hard pushed conjure up ideas of mouth watering steak tartar or whitefish laced with lemon and parsley but they're all here.
Address: Ban Haysok, Around Town.
Tel: +85621/219-689
Credit Cards: Master Card, Visa

Nazim Restaurant

With everything from tandori to biyrani and all that comes in between, Nazim offers a vast menu of Indian cuisine (and beer to wash it down) situated along the Mekong. The staff can sometimes act as if they would rather be sitting where you are, but the food is tasty and the prices are reasonable, making this a popular backpacker spot and an expat joint.
Located on Fa Ngoum Road.
Tel: +85621/223-480
Price range US$1-US$2.50

Sticky Fingers

Started by Australians who came to Laos with the U.N. involved in NGO work, the menu includes soups, salads, sandwiches, and snacks. It's got the corner on the casual business lunch and the after-work crowd. Try a burger, sandwich, or steak and be sure to choose from the impressive list of homemade dips and sauces that can be taken out, too.
Situated across from the Tai-Pan Hotel
Tel: +85621/215-972
Price range US$2.80-US$7.50

Sabaidee

This is one of the few eating places in Vientiane where both locals and tourists can be found enjoying basic but tasty food and a cold Beer Lao. The central location and affordable food make this a popular spot. The menu is a combination of light western and traditional Laotian food, so you can enjoy the American Breakfast or be a little more adventurous and experiment with a traditional Lao salad. Diners enjoy eating outdoors among an array of potted plants.
Address: 36 Setthathirath Road

Bor Pen Nyang & Restaurant

'No worries' is the laid-back mantra at the Bor Pen Nyang. Relax while you face a great view of the Mekong River. From the lazy and relaxed afternoons to the vibrant nights, this restaurant and bar offers complete entertainment. Enjoy a game of pool or snooker with your friends or read a book in solitude at the Sidewalk Garden Cafe. Take along that special someone and make sparks fly with yummy cocktails and the fiery sunset. Bor Pen Nyang offers a range of snacks
Address: Fa Ngum Rd, Wat Chanh Village.
Tel: +856 21 26 1373

Nok Noy Noodle Shop

Nok Noy features a short and simple menu that offers a choice between fried noodles, fried rice and noodles, or plain soup. Each is made with your choice of chicken, pork, beef or vegetables. This is nonetheless a popular spot with foreigners and locals alike because of its cheap prices, efficient service, generous portions and great location.
Address: Fa Ngum Road
Tel: +85620777 8999

What to Eat in Laos

Lao cuisine is very similar to its Thai and Vietnamese neighbor’s, and meals of spicy soup, sticky rice and chicken or laab are favorites with locals. Vientiane is serviced by several good French restaurants, a remnant of the country's colonial era, and baguettes and croissants are also widely available. Major cities in Laos offer restaurants to suit almost any palette but the selection dwindles quickly as you embark on roads less traveled. This chance to experience the original taste of the traditional food is not to be missed.