Khao Jee Pâté: A Lao Street Sandwich You Should Try at Least Once

If you spend some time in Laos, especially in Vientiane, you will almost certainly come across a local sandwich called Khao Jee Pâté. For Lao people, this is a very familiar food — often eaten for breakfast, but just as commonly enjoyed at any time of the day.

Khao Jee Pâté is a Lao-style baguette sandwich, influenced by French bread but adapted to local tastes. You can usually find it at small street stalls, roadside shops, or simple local bakeries. If you see a sign written in Lao that looks like “ຂ້າວຈີ່ປາເຕ້” or notice a long baguette filled with many ingredients, that is your cue to stop and try it.

What makes Khao Jee Pâté special is its combination of textures and flavors. The baguette is lightly toasted so it is crispy on the outside and soft inside. Inside, it is filled generously with pâté (liver spread), which gives the sandwich a rich and savory base. This is balanced by pickled vegetables, usually cucumber and carrot, adding freshness and a slight sour crunch.

The sandwich is typically finished with mayonnaise and a chili sauce, which can be adjusted to mild or spicy depending on your preference. This mix of creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors creates a taste that is very distinctive and deeply familiar to Lao people.

Khao Jee Pâté is affordable, filling, and easy to find, making it a perfect choice for travelers who want to experience everyday Lao food rather than restaurant dishes. It is also a good option for people on the go, whether you are heading to work, exploring the city, or looking for a quick meal between activities.

If you are visiting Laos and want to try something local that people genuinely eat every day, Khao Jee Pâté is highly recommended. It may look simple, but it carries a lot of local character — and once you try it, you may find yourself coming back for another one.