After attempting to go to Laos Kitchen only to be unceremoniously sent away as they had a group, I hit up my second choice, namely Doi Ka Noi Restaurant.
Well as it turns out this was not only not a big deal, but probably worked out for the best! For it turns out that not only did Doi Ka Noi have great food and drinks, but its also a truly cute and authentically Laotian place.
What the Doi Ka Noi?
Doi Ka Noi in Vientiane offers a cozy, down-to-earth experience centered around traditional Lao cuisine, served with a dedication to local sourcing. Founded by Chef Nok, the restaurant places a strong emphasis on farm-to-table freshness, with ingredients sourced from regional farmers and sometimes its own garden. The seasonal menu is a true representation of Lao flavors, featuring dishes that highlight regional herbs, spices, and produce.
The setting is inviting yet unpretentious, creating an atmosphere that feels like a family gathering. Known for its commitment to authentic flavors and sustainable practices. And in fact it is so laid back “family vibe” that I actually thought it was closed. Despite this I entered through the back door (no pun) to be welcomed in heartily.
Now it was time to look at the menu, itself a rather strange, but very artful affair.
The Doi Ka Noi Menu
Having been to Kong View the night before I was expecting a huge menu that would make it rather hard to pick from. Instead I got a paper menu that fit all the foods in all four corners of one A4 page. Yet despite this it was no where any easier to actually decide what to have.
Main courses included duck and many salads filed with local fresh ingredients, but I was to go for a few appetizers. These included fried spring rolls with sauce, as well as a river weed that was fashioned onto a seaweed type flat dish. Both were extremely good, with the freshness as with everything here being paramount.
I personally finished with a ginger homemade ice-cream which much like everything else was fabulous. It was though the drinks that blew me away.
Drinking at Doi Ka Noi
If I like artisanal food then I love artisanal drinks. And it is here that the menu is just perfect. Firstly there are the mostly French wines, which I avoided before you get to the cocktails and local infused moonshine aka rice wine and whisky.
From the cocktail list I had the Red and Black which for all intents was a Gin and Tonic, but where the gin had been infused with mulberry, hibiscus and black pepper. This was equal if not better than any high grade gin and tonic I have ever had, such as in Cambodia (the best in the world I am told) even if they did just sex up some Gordons.
And then there was the “rice whisky” which consisted of Sam Nieu Rice whisky! $2.50, served straight, green and akin to rocket fuel, as you will see form the accompanying video! I’d estimate it at being 60% and it truly did not disappoint.
Overall I have to say I really enjoyed the simplicity of Doi Ka Noi, with Lao Kitchen Home Made’s closure being a clear blessing for me and them….
How to get to Doi Ka Noi?
Doi Ka Noi is located at Setthathirath Road, Ban Phonphanao, Vientiane. The restaurant sits a bit outside the bustling city center but is easily reachable by both taxi and tuk-tuk. If you’re heading over from the heart of Vientiane, expect to pay around 50,000 to 70,000 LAK (about $3-4 USD) for a tuk-tuk ride. Taxis may cost a bit more but provide a faster, more comfortable option.
Located just a stone throw from That Luang Food Market which is also well worth a visit, if you have stamina.