10 Best Things to Eat in Laos

Laos is a paradise to wanderers and not only to those who want to see the calm scenery but also to those who want to taste something delicious. Laotian food is a mouth-watering combination of spicy and herb-fresh flavours and sticky rice, which is a treat to all types of foodies. Be it grilled meat on the street or home-cooked delicacies, Laos food epitomizes sophistication and simplicity of its culture. So, when you are going on a trip, you should not ignore trying these typical dishes. For those ready to explore Laotian flavors, Laos Holiday Packages offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy its scenic beauty and traditional food in one go.

Here are the 10 Best Things to Eat in Laos

1. Larb (Laap) – The National Dish of Laos

Larb is often called the soul of Lao cuisine. Made with minced meat (usually chicken, beef, pork, or fish), flavored with lime juice, fish sauce, mint, and roasted rice powder, it's tangy, spicy, and refreshing. Served with sticky rice, larb is more than just food—it's a celebration dish often shared during special occasions. It’s a must-try if you want to taste the true essence of Laos.

2. Khao Niew (Sticky Rice)

Sticky rice isn’t just a side dish in Laos—it’s a way of life. Laos has the highest per capita consumption of sticky rice in the world. Served in small woven baskets, it's eaten with almost every meal, pinched into small balls and dipped into sauces or used to scoop up meat. Its subtle flavor and chewy texture make it a staple that perfectly complements the boldness of Laotian dishes.

3. Or Lam – Hearty Lao Stew

This slow-cooked stew originates from Luang Prabang and is deeply comforting. Made with buffalo meat or chicken, Or Lam includes eggplants, mushrooms, long beans, lemongrass, and chili wood—a peppery herb that gives it a unique kick. This dish is perfect for cooler evenings and gives a glimpse into the home-cooked warmth of Lao cuisine.

4. Khao Piak Sen – Lao Noodle Soup

If you’re a fan of Vietnamese pho or Thai noodle soups, you’ll love Khao Piak Sen. These hand-rolled, chewy rice noodles are served in a flavorful chicken or pork broth and garnished with herbs, bean sprouts, and fried garlic. It’s comfort food that hits the spot, especially when you're craving something warm and filling.

5. Mok Pa – Steamed Fish in Banana Leaves

Mok Pa is one of the healthiest and most aromatic dishes in Laos. Fresh fish is mixed with herbs like lemongrass, kaffir lime, dill, and chili, then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. The result is a soft, moist, and fragrant dish that’s both light and flavorful. It’s usually served with—you guessed it—sticky rice.

6. Sai Oua – Lao Sausage

Sai Oua is a flavorful sausage made from minced pork, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, and chili. Originally from Northern Laos, it’s grilled over charcoal for a crispy outside and juicy, herb-infused interior. Often served with fresh vegetables and sticky rice, Sai Oua is the perfect street food snack or party appetizer.

7. Tam Mak Hoong – Lao Papaya Salad

Though it shares similarities with Thai som tam, the Lao version is more pungent and fermented. Tam Mak Hoong includes shredded green papaya, lime juice, chili, tomatoes, and most notably, fermented fish sauce (padek), which gives it its signature boldness. It’s spicy, sour, salty, and a must-try for those who love strong, tangy flavors.

8. Khao Jee – Lao Baguette Sandwich

A legacy of French colonialism, Khao Jee is Laos’s answer to the Vietnamese Banh Mi. A crispy baguette is filled with pate, pork, pickled vegetables, herbs, and chili sauce. It’s a perfect breakfast or on-the-go snack and a fascinating fusion of European technique with Laotian ingredients.

9. Nam Khao – Crispy Rice Salad

Nam Khao is a delicious salad made from deep-fried rice balls that are broken into crispy bits and mixed with coconut, fermented pork sausage, peanuts, mint, and chili. Wrapped in lettuce leaves, it's both crunchy and refreshing. This dish often surprises visitors with its texture and rich taste layers.

10. Lao Coconut Desserts

Laotian cuisine isn’t all about spice—there’s sweetness too. Laos offers a variety of coconut-based desserts, such as sticky rice with coconut milk and mango, steamed coconut cakes, or crispy coconut pancakes. These treats are often simple yet satisfying, offering a perfect finish to a spicy meal.

Conclusion

The Best Things to Eat in Laos reflect the country’s soul—simple, flavorful, and heartwarming. Each dish carries history, tradition, and a sense of community that makes Laotian food more than just a culinary experience. Whether you’re eating larb at a family table or grabbing a Khao Jee sandwich on the street, every bite tells a story. For travelers wanting to dive into this rich food culture, exploring local markets and street stalls is a must. If you're planning your trip, don’t forget to check out the best Laos Holiday Packages to enjoy authentic food experiences alongside breathtaking landscapes.