When it comes to the street food Vientiane scene this place has its own unique charm, offering an eclectic mix of flavors and dishes that reflect not just Lao, but all of the influences from the surrounding region.
With its laid-back vibe, stunning scenery, and a plethora of food options, this capital city is a paradise for street food enthusiasts. In fact I was so impressed that I may well have to raise my overall ranking for not just Street Food Vientiane, but perhaps that of Lao.
There overall Street Food Vientiane scene
While the best street food in Vientiane can be found at some very special night, day and food markets the great thing about here is that Vientiane street food is pretty much everywhere.
This means that once night falls not only do the markets populate, but almost every inch of every street starts wafting the pleasant aroma of the street food Vientiane scene.
But, it does not just stop on the street with Laotian street food mom and pop shops everywhere, not to mention a whole heap of street restaurants serving Vietnamese, Thai and even Chinese food. This meant that at San Jiang Hotel I even got to have Chinese BBQ on the streets.
Where to get on the Street Food Vientiane Scene
While Vientiane street food is pretty much “all around” there are some specialist markets that offer some of the best foods within the city.
1. Night Market (Talat Sao)
Vientiane’s Night Market is a bustling hub of activity, especially after sunset. Vendors set up shop along the streets, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with tantalizing aromas. Here, you can sample a wide range of dishes, from grilled meats to spicy salads. Grab a spot at one of the communal tables, where you can enjoy your food while soaking in the lively surroundings.
2. Morning Market (Talat Morning)
Early risers will want to head to the Morning Market, where you can experience the hustle and bustle of locals buying their fresh produce. This market isn’t just about fruits and veggies; it’s also a great spot for breakfast. Try traditional Lao dishes like khao niew (sticky rice) and khao soi (coconut curry noodles) to kick-start your day.
3. Chao Anouvong Park
In the evenings, Chao Anouvong Park transforms into a food haven. Stalls pop up selling everything from grilled skewers to desserts. The park offers a more relaxed setting where you can enjoy your food while taking in the view of the Mekong River. It’s an ideal place to wind down after a hot day in town.
4. Souvanna Phouma Street
This street is a hidden gem for food lovers. Lined with food carts and small eateries, Souvanna Phouma Street offers an array of options, including larb (spicy meat salad) and various grilled dishes. It’s a great place to sample local flavors while mingling with the locals.
5. That Luang Street Food Market
This place is without doubt for me the best place for street food in Vientiane. Originally started with a few stalls servicing people visiting a temple, it has since grown to be The street food Vientiane location. Not at all touristy and offers every dish you could ever want to try in the Lao PDR. Click the link to see by full article.
10 Must-Try Street Foods in Vientiane
This is honestly a list that could be 30 dishes long, but in the interests of focusing mostly on street foods in Vientiane I have tried I decided to keep this short and sweet.
I will though later be doing an article on the cuisine of Lao, as well as the drinks you need to try when here.
1. Larb (Larb Moo)
Often regarded as the national dish of Laos, larb is a minced meat salad seasoned with herbs, lime juice, and fish sauce. It’s refreshing, spicy, and bursting with flavor. Head to the Night Market to taste some of the best larb in the city.
2. Khao Niew (Sticky Rice)
Sticky rice is a staple in Lao cuisine and is typically served alongside grilled meats or spicy salads. It’s often eaten with your hands, making it a fun and interactive dining experience. You can find vendors selling sticky rice at both the Morning and Night Markets.
3. Som Tam (Papaya Salad)
This spicy salad, made from shredded green papaya, tomatoes, and peanuts, is a must-try for anyone visiting Vientiane. It’s refreshing and packs a punch. Many stalls at the Night Market offer som tam with various levels of spiciness, so you can customize it to your taste.
4. Sai Oua (Grilled Sausage)
Sai oua is a delicious grilled sausage made from minced pork mixed with herbs and spices. You’ll find it sizzling on grills at street vendors, particularly around Chao Anouvong Park. It’s a fantastic snack to enjoy on the go.
5. Khao Soi (Coconut Curry Noodles)
This comforting dish consists of noodles served in a rich coconut curry broth, topped with crispy noodles and fresh herbs. You can find khao soi at small eateries near the Morning Market, where it’s prepared fresh daily.
6. Baguette Sandwiches
Influenced by French colonialism, baguette sandwiches are a popular street food option in Laos. These crispy baguettes are filled with meats, pickled vegetables, and herbs. Perfect for a quick lunch, you can find them at various stalls throughout Vientiane. Similar to num pang in Cambodia.
7. Mok Pa (Steamed Fish)
Mok pa is a delicious dish made from fish mixed with herbs and spices, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. It’s often available at local markets and offers a unique taste of Lao cuisine.
8. Fried Bananas
A sweet treat that you simply cannot miss, fried bananas are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Vendors near the Night Market serve them hot and fresh, making them a perfect dessert after a savory meal.
9. Bia Lao (Beer Lao)
While not a food, no street food adventure in Vientiane would be complete without a cold Beer Lao. This local brew is widely available and pairs perfectly with your favorite street food. Readily available on draft too, even at some street food Vientiane venues. You can read my Beer Lao article here.
10. Grilled Meat Skewers
These flavorful skewers are a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. With various meats marinated and grilled to perfection, you can find them at numerous stalls, especially in the Night Market. They make for a quick and satisfying snack.
Restaurants in Vientiane
Exporting the street food Vientiane scene is relatively easy with the main venues not just being well known, but street food essentially being everywhere. Also for normal muggles most of the dishes like sausages and the like are “normal” wit bugs, raw shrimp and fertilized eggs being of the minority.
And the cuisine does not stop there with mom and pop style restaurants serving local and regional favorites all across town. Above this the food scene is really growing up too with places like Kong View and Doi Ka Noi to name but two being extremely fine examples of local fusion fine dining Laotian cuisine.
Conclusion on the Street Food Vientiane scene
Vientiane and perhaps the Laos Peoples Democratic Republic might have some of the most unrated street food and indeed cuisine throughout the region. Yes it lacks the expanse of say Thailand or Vietnam, but it has also done great at not only borrowing from the best, but also concentrating on doing a few dishes really well.
Therefore whether you are working, traveling, or merely passing through Vientiane you can sue at least that you will not be going hungry.