Vegetarian Food in Vientiane: Where to Eat & How to Order (with Lao Phrases)
For vegetarian travelers in Vientiane, eating out is quite manageable—especially if you know a few simple Lao phrases to explain your diet. Lao people are generally understanding and flexible when it comes to food preferences.
How to Say “I’m Vegetarian” in Lao
You can use these simple and polite phrases when ordering food:
- ຂ້ອຍເປັນມັງສະວິຣັດ
Koi pen mang-sa-wi-rat
→ I am vegetarian - ບໍ່ກິນຊີ້ນ
Bor kin seen
→ I don’t eat meat - ບໍ່ໃສ່ຊີ້ນ ບໍ່ໃສ່ນ້ຳປາ
Bor sai seen, bor sai nam pa
→ No meat, no fish sauce - ກິນແຕ່ຜັກ
Kin tae phak
→ I eat vegetables only
Saying this calmly with a smile is usually enough. Most restaurants are happy to adjust dishes, especially in the capital.
Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurants (Currently Operating)
The following places are well known and commonly reported as open, and are frequently visited by both locals and travelers. (Opening hours can still change, so checking Google Maps before going is recommended.)
Dedicated Vegetarian / Vegan
Noy’s Fruit Heaven
A long-time favorite among vegetarian and vegan travelers. Offers plant-based meals, fresh juices, smoothies, and fruit bowls. Popular for its relaxed atmosphere and reliable vegetarian options.
Widely known and still operating, based on recent visitor activity.
Khambang Lao Vegetarian Restaurant
A local-style vegetarian restaurant serving Lao dishes without meat. Simple, affordable, and commonly used by locals who eat vegetarian meals for religious reasons.
Vegetarian-Friendly Cafés & Restaurants
Makphet Restaurant
Not fully vegetarian, but offers several vegetarian options. A social enterprise restaurant popular with visitors who want healthy, thoughtfully prepared food.
Joma Bakery Café
International café with salads, vegetarian sandwiches, and meat-free choices. Easy and reliable for travelers.
Common Grounds Café
Modern café with vegetarian-friendly dishes and good coffee, suitable for breakfast or lunch.
For readers of LaosTravelHub, being vegetarian in Vientiane is very achievable. With a few Lao words and the right places in mind, travelers can enjoy their meals comfortably—while still experiencing local food culture in a respectful and enjoyable way.