The moment you step foot in Thailand, you’ll want to savor authentic Thai cuisine! But…
Top 10 Must-Try Vientiane Local Food Delicacies for Transit Travelers

Make the Most of Your Short Transit! Discover Delicious Local Food in Vientiane
Why waste time just waiting at the airport during a short transit? Vientiane has plenty of incredible local dishes that you can enjoy even in a short time. Here, we introduce famous eateries near the airport and convenient takeout options.
Taste Traditional Laotian Cuisine!
Larb (Larb)
A minced meat salad infused with herbs and spices. The refreshing lime flavor pairs perfectly with sticky rice!
Khao Piak (Khao Piak)
A thick rice noodle soup with chicken or pork, offering a mild and comforting taste.
10 Must-Try Local Dishes During Transit
- Larb – Traditional Laotian minced meat salad
- Khao Piak – Warm rice noodle soup
- Tam Mak Hoong – Green papaya salad
- Sin Dat – Laotian-style BBQ
- Khao Niew – Sticky rice eaten by hand
- Khao Jee Pâté – French baguette sandwich
- Mok Pa – Steamed fish wrapped in banana leaves
- Pho – Vietnamese-style noodle soup
- Khao Poon – Coconut-flavored noodle soup
- Sai Ua – Herb-infused sausage

Best Eateries Near the Airport
West Coast Airport Restaurant
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Address: P.O. Box 3175, 3rd Floor, Wattay International Airport, Vientiane
- Access: Located on the 3rd floor of Wattay International Airport, offering a great view of airplanes while dining
PhoZap
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Address: Ban Sailom, Vientiane 10001 Laos
- Access: About a 15-minute taxi ride from the airport
PVO Vietnamese Restaurant
- Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Address: Th Fa Ngum, Vientiane 0100 Laos
- Access: About a 15-minute taxi ride from the airport

Short on Time? Grab a Takeout!
If you’re in a hurry, Khao Jee Pâté (Laotian-style banh mi) is a great option! This French baguette sandwich is filled with pâté and vegetables, making it a convenient meal you can eat on the go.
Essential Phrases for Ordering Food
- Sabaidee (ສະບາຍດີ) – Hello
- Khaw… (ຂໍ) – Please give me…
- Tao dai? (ເທົ່າໃດ) – How much is this?
- Khop jai lai lai (ຂອບໃຈຫຼາຍໆ) – Thank you very much
These phrases will help you smoothly order food at local restaurants!

Conclusion
Even during a short transit, you can enjoy Vientiane’s delicious cuisine. If you have time, visit a nearby restaurant. If you’re in a rush, take advantage of convenient takeout options. Why not turn your next transit into a flavorful adventure?
If you’d prefer to relax rather than eat during your layover, consider a day-use hotel for a quick break.
Looking for the best places to unwind? Check out this article for top recommendations!