Pakse Southern Laos, Laos Travel Guide
Lao cuisine shares similarities with Thai and Vietnamese food due to geographical proximity, but its own distinct characteristics.
It usually spicier, more pungent, and places a strong emphasis on fresh seasonings and waxy rice.
Known for powerful, robust flavors, abundance of fresh produce, notably coffee.
Dishes might be spicier than those found further north in Laos.
Generally less sweet than Thai cuisine, balanced sour, spicy, salty, and bitter.
The national dish of Laos: savory minced meat salad with seasonings and roasted rice powder.
Widely available at local restaurants.
Spicier and more pungent than Thai som tum, with fermented fish paste (padek).
Found at street food stalls and local eateries. Can be very spicy!
Comforting noodle broth with thick rice noodles in savory chicken or pork broth.
Popular particularly for breakfast.
The national beer, a generally available lager, best enjoyed chilled.
From the Bolaven Plateau, strong and aromatic, often with condensed milk.
Limited options, mostly at higher-end hotels.
Numerous options offering Lao and some Western dishes.
Excellent for authentic food at very budget-friendly prices.
The main market in Pakse, with a food-focused section for ready-to-eat meals.
A hub of local culinary activity.
Smaller markets for locals to buy fresh food, simple breakfast items.
A more authentic, less tourist-focused experience.
Dishes familiar to regional travelers.
Pizza, burgers, pasta for varied tastes.
Found near popular tourist areas.
Restaurants serving various culinary preferences.
Halal food options extremely limited to non-existent.
Kosher food options are also extremely limited.
Utilize tools and local help for dietary requirements.
Travelers with severe allergies should exercise extreme caution.
Some guesthouses or tour operators offer informal classes for Lao cuisine.
Less formalized than in larger cities.
Bolaven Plateau renowned for java production.
Many spots offer both Lao and dishes from around the world.
Nearness to the Bolaven Plateau ensures fresh, aromatic Lao coffee.
A must-try for coffee lovers, typically served with condensed milk.
Often consists of noodle soups (like Khao Piak Sen), waxy rice with grilled meat, or French-style baguette sandwiches (khao jee).
Meal times are flexible. They typically waxy rice served with various accompanying dishes, like laap and curries. Meals are social events.
Khao Nom Kok (sweet coconut-rice pancakes) and Khanom Krok are common choices.
For a genuine culinary experience, visit Dao Heuang Market for a diverse range of local street food and snacks.
