Where to Eat in Luang Namtha

If you’ve spent even one day in Luang Namtha you’ve probably discovered the excellent Night Market. You may have even aventured the 10-minute walk to the morning market (It’s worth it. Go!). And while you’ll find familiar Asian fare at these spots like noodle soup and spring rolls, you will also encounter some seriously interesting Lao edibles. Much of this food is harvested right from the forest and because it’s unfamiliar it can intimidate even the most adventurous eater.

But don’t let that stop you! Here is a teeny tiny guide to some local foods of Luang Namtha. These are some of my favorites and I hope they will start your eating adventures off on the right foot:

Khao Soy – A rice noodle soup with a pork bolognaise style sauce. The rich slightly salty tomato flavored sauce with the soft rice noodles (preferably hand-cut) make this a hearty lunch. If visiting Muang Sing, visit Ban Siliheung, the Khao soy noodles are made in this village every afternoon.

Lao BBQ or “Sinda” – This is a cook-yourself hot-pot-style dinner, great fun with two people and even better with more. Many towns have a “Sinda” restaurant so ask your guesthouse for recommendations. Thin strips of meat are cooked on a grill surrounded by broth which you add egg, noodles, vegetables, tofu. It is healthy and really tasty

A social place to eat well and inexpensively. BBQ pork and chicken, papaya salad, sticky rice, beer lao, a perfect meal that won’t hurt your wallet. A few friendly hounds will keep you company, as they know this is the place to get fed. The share tables make it a great place to meet fellow travelers.