Here Nicole gives the low down on two Laos classics — the world of noodle soups and grilled meats. She doesn’t promise that you will like everything on her list, but there is no better time to go out on a limb and try new things than when you travel!
Who: Khao Piak (Cow Peeyak) Noodle Shop
What: Traditional Lao noodle soup called Khao Piak
When: Anytime day or night
Where: Locals each have a favorite shop. Some of the more famous ones in the town center are located across from Wat Sene (only open until a little after noon) or in Ban Khili beside the temple near the end of the peninsula.
Why: You can try this even if you’re not so adventurous and are wary of spice. It is really cheap so even if you aren’t a fan, you can take a couple bites and have only spent $1.50. The soup is usually served with pork (shredded and pork meatballs) and egg.
There are always an array of ingredients on the table you can add to your soup to add more flavor (pepper, sugar, salt, MSG, vinegar, fish sauce, soy sauce, etc.) I recommend you get a rice cracker to crumble and add to your soup.
Who: Grilled Meats Market
What: Meats and fish grilled on bamboo sticks
When: There are some vendors around lunch time (at the T-junction of the Mekong River Road and Kitsalat Rd), but the best time to go is the evening.
Where: Best place to go in the evening is where the morning fresh market is located, behind Wat Mai, close to Kitsalat Rd. You can also venture down the alley on the same block that has vegetarian buffects in addition to these grilling stations. You can squish into a seat amongst other travelers with your fresh off the grill selection.
Why: You have the opportunity to taste fresh local fish and other meats for a reasonable price. It is a relatively safe eating experience since they will grill it to your liking after you have made your selections.
- The grilled fish is delicious as it is stuffed with lemongrass and herbs. Be warned that there are a lot of bones you have to get around. If you are adventurous, try the fish eye, as locals find that to be the tastiest part and lucky.
- The grilled sour pork (Som Mou) is so bad, yet oh-so good. These little slices of heaven are pretty much 50% meat, 50% fat.
- Luang Prabang Sausage is another must try. Each stall will usually have a selections, from sweet to blood sausages. My favorite is the Luang Prabang Sausage (The city is known for their pork sausages throughout the country)
- Other good eats are grilled chicken breasts, BBQ chicken, grilled intestines , pickled vegetables and sticky rice.
In addition to tickling your taste buds and filling your belly, your locally sourced meals will support family restaurants and small business owners — a true win-win!