Arom Pakse – A Local Favorite for Traditional Lao Cuisine
📍 Phonexay Road, Vientiane 01160, Laos
⏰ Open 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Closed on Mondays
Tucked away on a quiet street, Arom Pakse offers a welcoming atmosphere and a menu that celebrates the richness of traditional Lao flavors. From hearty stews to zesty salads, dishes are thoughtfully prepared using fresh, local ingredients. With warm service and a relaxed setting, it’s a favorite among both locals and visitors seeking an authentic culinary experience in Vientiane.
Lao NaNa Rooftop – Dinner with a Panoramic View
📍 XJ92+82R, Sihom Road, Vientiane
⏰ Mon: 7:00 AM–2:00 PM | Tue–Sun: 7:00 AM–9:00 PM
Perched above the city, Lao NaNa Rooftop offers sweeping 360° views—ideal for sunset dinners or a relaxing drink under the stars. The menu combines Lao specialties with international favorites, served in a romantic, easygoing setting. It’s a perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing in Vientiane.
Kung’s Café Lao – A Peaceful Garden Hideaway
📍 Phiawat Village, near the Ministry of Health
⏰ Daily: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Tucked down a quiet alley, Kung’s Café Lao is a serene garden spot perfect for breakfast or brunch. Known for its creamy coconut coffee, homemade bites, and laid-back vibe, it offers great value in a lush, peaceful setting. A true hidden gem in Vientiane.
Kong View – Dining by the Mekong River
📍 183 Soupanouvong Rd, Ban Nongpanay
⏰ Daily: 4:30 PM – 11:30 PM
Ideal for sunset views and riverside breezes, Kong View offers traditional Lao dishes, seafood, and acoustic music in an open-air setting. A great pick for a romantic dinner or laid-back evening with friends.
Bacán Café Vientiane – A Latin American Culinary Escape
📍 100-03 Samsenthai Rd, Koualoung Village
⏰ Mon–Thu: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM | Fri–Sat: 9:00 AM–9:00 PM | Closed Sun
Bringing South American flavor to Laos, Bacán Café serves empanadas, tacos, and Chilean specialties. With colorful décor and occasional live Latin music, it’s a cozy spot for breakfast, lunch, or a cultural dinner outing.
Bistro 22 – French Cuisine with Local Charm
📍 Rue Samsenthai, Vientiane
⏰ Mon, Wed–Fri: 11:30 AM–2:00 PM & 6:10 PM–9:30 PM | Sat: 6:15 PM–9:30 PM | Closed Sun
A favorite among Francophiles and foodies, Bistro 22 delivers refined French dishes at reasonable prices. The intimate atmosphere and attentive service make it ideal for a date night or leisurely lunch.
Khop Chai Deu – Central Spot for Lao Food & Live Music
📍 Rue Setthathilath, Vientiane
⏰ Daily: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
This lively spot offers a wide-ranging menu of Lao and Western fare, plus nightly live music and a bustling terrace. Khop Chai Deu is popular with both locals and expats, perfect for dinner with a side of entertainment.
Hangout Vientiane – Friendly and Flexible Dining
📍 Dongpalane Rd, Vientiane
⏰ Daily: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Casual and welcoming, Hangout Vientiane serves a mix of Lao, Thai, and Western comfort food. A versatile place for any meal, whether you’re flying solo or dining with a group.
Laos Restaurant – Eat Like a Local
📍 XJ83+PC7, Vientiane
⏰ 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Closed Weekends
A no-frills, family-run favorite serving classic Lao home cooking at budget prices. Come early for hearty soups, sticky rice, and authentic flavors that keep locals coming back.
Vientiane Night Food Market – Street Food, Lao Style
📍 52 Hengboun Road, Vientiane
⏰ Daily: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
A vibrant hub of local street food by the Mekong. Sample grilled meats, papaya salad, noodle dishes, and sweet treats under glowing red tents. It’s a must for adventurous eaters and night owls.
🥢 Must-Try Traditional Dishes in Vientiane
No culinary trip to Laos is complete without sampling these local favorites:
- 🥗 Larb – Spicy minced meat salad, Laos’ national dish
- 🍲 Khao Piak Sen – Hearty noodle soup made from handmade rice noodles
- 🐟 Mok Pa – Steamed fish in banana leaves, rich with herbs
- 🥗 Tam Mak Hoong – Lao-style spicy papaya salad
- 🍚 Khao Niaw – Sticky rice, eaten with almost every meal
Final Thoughts: A Taste of Vientiane
Whether you’re craving street food or fine dining, Vientiane’s food scene offers incredible variety. Each of these restaurants brings something unique—from riverside views to French finesse and Latin spice. Bon appétit—and enjoy your flavorful adventure through Laos!
