Where To Eat In Vang Vieng: 11 Great Cafes And Restaurants

Wondering where to eat in Vang Vieng? Whether you’re hungover, sunburned, or craving something different from the usual backpacker menu, read on for the best restaurants and cafes worth visiting during your stay!

Now, being on the smaller side, there isn’t really a crazy foodie scene in Vang Vieng, so you can easily end up somewhere average. Though, in just a short time, you can visit some of the top cafes and restaurants in Vang Vieng.

I’ve been lucky enough to spend a couple of weeks here, and you know I’ve eaten my heart out! Also, I’m a vegetarian, so every spot in this guide has at least one decent vege option. I’ve tested them all, so you won’t end up with a boring plate of plain rice.

Whether you’re looking for breakfast, a post-tubing lunch, or dinner, there are a bunch of options. From a taste of home at the pub to trying some local Lao dishes.

If you’re a little short on time, here’s a quick breakdown with the best places to eat in Vang Vieng:

Map Of Best Places To Eat In Vang Vieng

Honestly, it can be hard to find some places in Vang Vieng since some of the roads don’t even have names! Or they’re in Lao, which I definitely can’t read. Seriously, there’s nothing worse than walking around hangry in 30°C heat.

Here’s a map I’ve put together of the spots I tested to save you time:

Best Cafes & Coffee Shops In Vang Vieng

There are some amazing cafes in Vang Vieng, which I tested. They’re perfect, especially if you love a good coffee, air conditioning, or just looking for somewhere to catch up on emails.

Also, the baked goods here are a whole other level for a cheeky morning or afternoon tea. I’m talking giant cinnamon and chocolate rolls!

Luang Prabang Bakery

⭐️ Rating: 3.6 out of 5 Stars | 📍 Location: Kangmuong Street, Vang Vieng | Price Range: $ | Best For: Quick breakfast, pastries

Now, don’t let the name fool you! Luang Prabang Bakery isn’t in Luang Prabang, it’s in Vang Vieng and definitely belongs on this list.

I absolutely loved all the sweet goodies in the display cabinet. Seriously, gimme those cheesecakes, cakes, and pastries. Though for something savoury there’s also a menu with plenty of Western and Asian favs.

Seriously, the prices here are pretty affordable. You can get an excellent morning coffee for your caffeine fix before you hit the Blue Lagoons Vang Vieng is famous for.

Of course, it’s not as good as a bakery in France, though, thanks to the French influence in Laos, it comes pretty damn close.

Must Try: Croissants or Baguette Sandwiches

Naked Espresso

⭐️ Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars | 📍 Location: In front of Silver Naga Hotel | Price Range: $$ | Best For: Quality Coffee & Working

Naked Espresso is one of the better coffee spots in town, with a view over the Nam Song River.

Now, they’re pretty well known for their specialty coffee blends, all roasted in-house. If you’re missing a good brew, this is the spot!

On the menu you’ll find a bunch of European and Asian dishes, along with some fresh fruit juices if you’re not keen on coffee. I loved the Healthy Skin Smoothie!

One of the best things here is the amazing AC, and honestly, you don’t find it in many places in Vang Vieng. This is an great spot if you’re looking for a chill place to work or simply a break from the heat.

Must Try: Coconut Latte & Cheesecake

Good to know: Popular for breakfast

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Vela Cafe And Restaurant (Veg-Friendly)

⭐️ Rating: 4.3 out of 5 Stars | 📍 Location: Along The Main Road | Price Range: $ | Best For: Cheap Decent Meals

Honestly, Vela Cafe and Restaurant is a budget go-to if you’re just looking for something cheap and cheerful. It’s family-run with a bit of everything on the menu.

If you do happen to be a vegetarian like me, it’s a great option, and even good if you happen to be traveling with meat lovers as well. They have a bunch of tofu dishes and some local dishes they can make vege.

This is the kind of spot you’ll keep coming back to throughout your time here. Though if you’re visiting for breakfast, they have a variety of set brekkie options for a meal and a coffee/tea/smoothie starting at just $3.00!

Must Try: Larb (including vege) & Their Summer Rolls

Local Lao & Budget Restaurants

We’re traveling Laos, so let’s get into some of those local spots serving up portions of Larb and sticky rice. It’s all about balance you can have that burger a bit later.

If you’re looking to save a bit of money, you’ll find plenty of options under $5.00 that’ll keep you going.

Green Restaurant (Veg-Friendly)

⭐️ Rating: 3.9 out of 5 Stars | 📍 Location: Just down from Abby Boutique Guesthouse | Price Range: $ | Best For: Cheap Hearty Meals

Green Restaurant is one of those popular spots thanks to the menu, affordable prices, and filling portion sizes. I loved coming here for an early dinner before it got too packed.

Now the menu is varied with a mix of Lao, Thai, and Western dishes. Oh, and plenty of vege options, which I appreciated.

I know it’s not local per se, but they also have wood-fired pizzas, which I absolutely devoured after a dusty day in the countryside.

For just $3.20, you can get yourself a delicious stir-fry with rice. This definitely became my go-to while in Vang Vieng.

Heads up, it can be super busy in the evenings, especially if you’re keen to sit on the terrace. For a more chill vibe visit during the afternoon.

Must Try: Massaman or Green Curry

Champa Night Market In Vang Vieng

⭐️ Rating: 3.6 out of 5 Stars | 📍 Location: Just down from the Tourist Information Center | Price Range: $ | Best For: Cheap Street Bites

The Vang Vieng Champa Night Market is worth visiting at least once during your stay for an easy dinner option. Honestly, if you’re on a budget, you can’t go wrong with a night market.

Just make sure to set your expectations for Vang Vieng. This isn’t like those bustling markets in Thailand or Vietnam. It’s a lot more chill and quiet, which is a nice break from walking around squished in crowds like at the Sunday Night Market in Chiang Mai.

Now there isn’t a massive amount of food options here, but you’ll find a handful of spots with skewers, noodle dishes, fried goodies, and a few sweet treats. I wouldn’t come here every night, but it’s nice to switch things up a little.

Must Try: Skewers

Good to know: Opens in the early evening and winds down fairly early, don’t come too late!

Chill Restaurants For International Eats

I do love a cheeky pizza or pasta when I’m on the road. It’s my comfort food and gives me a little taste of home. So let’s switch it up from sticky rice and larb to cheese and carbs.

Whether you’re traveling with a picky eater, happen to be one yourself, or are craving something familiar.

Time for those international favorites, from a Thai curry, delicious Italian, or a cheap Irish Pub. There’s a surprising number of options in Vang Vieng.

Viman Vang Vieng German Restaurant

⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 📍 Location: Wat Kang Street next to Camilia Hotel | Price Range: $$ | Best For: Hearty Meals

Viman Vang Vieng German Restaurant is a popular spot thanks to its freshly made meals, perfect when you’re over rice and noodles.

It’s run by Master Chef Mr. Kaz, who was born in Thailand but lived in Germany for decades before opening this spot.

I love the menu here, not just the options, but the number of things available. You’ll find everything from Thai classics and curries to German favorites, including schnitzels and sausages!

Also, there are some solid veg options, and you can even get the schnitzels done vegetarian!

Just note that sometimes service can be on the slower side, since Kaz makes everything from scratch, but it’s well worth the wait! There are cards and board games around for entertainment.

Must Try: Schnitzel & Kaiserschmarrn

Garys Irish Bar

⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 📍 Location: Opposite Happy Mango | Price Range: $ | Best For: Pub Food

If you’re missing a taste of home, you can’t go wrong with Gary’s Irish Bar. This is always my first stop when in Vang Vieng.

There’s nothing like a cheeky chippie buttie to cure that homesickness, or a roast if that’s more up your alley.

Now, this obviously isn’t a local spot, so expect it to be full of backpackers looking for a good feed. Though I need to give a special shout-out to the music, they play some throwbacks from my high school days.

The food may be a tad basic, but it’s damn good. The guys working here are always up for a laugh, and if you stay past 8 pm, you’ll see it turn from a chill restaurant to a full-on bar vibe.

Must Try: Anything With Their Gravy

Happy Mango Thai Restaurant

⭐️ Rating: 4.4 out of 5 Stars | 📍 Location: Middle Street, Vang Vieng | Price Range: $$ | Best For: Thai Food

Happy Mango is one of my favorite restaurants in Vang Vieng, though don’t expect a low-key spot all to yourself. It’s usually pretty busy, especially in the evenings.

The owner is actually from Thailand, so you know the food is going to be super authentic and flavorsome.

You’ll find all the Thai classics here, from a delicious massaman curry and stir-fries to pad thai. Plus, they can make nearly anything on the menu vegetarian, which is great if you’re traveling in a group with different dietary needs.

The only downside is the crowds, so if you’re looking for a quiet and romantic evening, this isn’t the place. But for tasty Thai food in a social setting, it’s the one.

Must Try: Mango Sticky Rice!

Pizza Luka

⭐️ Rating: 4.6 out of 5 Stars | 📍 Location: Across The River | Price Range: $$ | Best For: Pizza!

If you’ve been in Laos for a while, Pizza Luka is perfect to mix things up! It easily has some of the best pizzas in the country with proper dough and fresh mozzarella!

Run by a husband and wife duo, they’ve brought a taste of Italy to rural Laos with pizzas, salads, and pastas! You will be spoilt for choice by the menu, plus I’m a sucker for some good cheeses.

Oh, and for dessert, their homemade ice cream is a must! There are a bunch of flavors, and it’s only $1.50 a scoop.

One downside is that it’s on the other side of the river from the main tourist center. You can head over the bridge, but make sure to bring small notes for the toll (5,000 LAK).

Must Try: Wood Fired Pizzas (and add chilli oil if you like a bit of heat)

Nicer Sit-Down Restaurants

When you want to dust off that nice outfit and dress up for the evening, there’s one spot well worth visiting on a date night with more refined menu choices.

The prices are higher, but you’ll be able to enjoy candlelit vibes with sunset views over the mountains and table service. Perfect for a special evening.

Restaurant Du Carbe D’Or

⭐️ Rating: 4.3 out of 5 Stars | 📍 Location: Inside Riverside Boutique Resort | Price Range: $$$ | Best For: A Nice Dinner Out

Restaurant du Crabe d’Or is one of the more luxe places to eat in Vang Vieng. It’s perfect if you’re keen on a quiet sit-down meal, or need a break from the same cheap eats.

Set right by the river, it’s a special atmosphere, especially in the evening. You’ll be able to escape the typical backpacker crowds and dusty roadside tables.

The menu is definitely more French-Lao fusion, with ingredients brought daily from the morning market. Make sure to try their degustation menu, where they highlight 5 different dishes from all around Laos.

Now, if you like your meals more on the spicier side, definitely let your server know. The chefs here cater to a Western palate and usually tone down the spice.

It’s a step up in price, but the setting, service, and quality make it worth it if you’re after something special.

Must Try: The Laos Tasting Menu

Tip: If you want a table with an amazing view, be sure to book in advance.

Tips For Eating In Vang Vieng

Here are my top tips and things to know when eating out in Vang Vieng:

• Many “vegetarian” dishes will be made using fish or oyster sauce, so make sure to double-check when ordering. This is common across Laos and Southeast Asia.
• Dinner tends to start early here, with many restaurants filling up before 7 pm.
• Cash is still king at family-run restaurants and night market stalls, so carry some small notes.
• Western food will be more expensive than local Lao dishes.
• Some restaurants will tone down the spice level for travellers, ask if you’re keen on a bit more heat.
• Be cautious with very cheap or unregulated spirits and always keep an eye on your drinks.

Where To Stay In Vang Vieng?

You’ll find heaps of places to stay here, from budget hostels to higher-end resorts. I’ve definitely stuck to the affordable end of that spectrum.

Since Vang Vieng is smaller, as long as you stay within the main township, you can walk everywhere within 10 to 15 minutes.

Hostels are everywhere (check out my Vang Vieng hostel guide), but most are party hostels that double as bars. ‘

If that’s not your scene, I’d splurge on a guesthouse, ideally down one of the side streets. You can easily find private rooms with AC and a comfy bed from $20.00 per night.

Vang Vieng Chill House A fun and social hostel in an excellent location. From $8.00 per night for a dorm. BOOK NOW	Rock Backpackers Hostel A social and party hard hostel on the main road of the town. From $4.00 per night. BOOK NOW
Vang Vieng Diamond Resort A great resort with a pool. From $22.00 per night.	Amari Hotel A taste of luxe with amazing views, and prices from $100.00 per night.

Things To Do In Vang Vieng

Now, apart from just eating your way around town, there are plenty of actual things to do in Vang Vieng.

If you’re keen to explore the countryside hire a motorbike, just read up on common scams first, and be aware of helmet fines.

Tubing on the Nam Song River: This is your Vang Vieng classic tipsy tubing with slow floating, riverside bars, and a very social vibe. It’s a lot safer than it used to be with regulated bars, just be careful with swimming and drinking.

Hike the viewpoints: Vang Vieng is surrounded by limestone mountains with epic viewpoints. Expect to sweat, but it’ll be worth it.

Hot air ballooning: One of the most popular activities here, especially at sunrise or sunset, just note it’s a pricey activity at $120.00 for 45 minutes, but it’s still cheaper than elsewhere around the world.

Visit the Blue Lagoons: You’ll find a few of these natural swimming holes around, perfect for cooling off, though you’ll need transport to get there. My favorite is Blue Lagoon 3, but it can get super busy, so the earlier the better!

Tham Chang Cave: This is an easy cave to visit close to town, with 200 stairs to get great views at the top.

Wrap Up: Where To Eat In Vang Vieng For Foodies

So Vang Vieng may be on the smaller side, but there’s definitely no shortage of delicious places to eat.

With cheap local meals at the night market, solid Thai food, pizza, and pub favs! It’s easy to eat well here without blowing your budget.

If you’re short on time, you can’t go wrong with Thai at Happy Mango or Gary’s Irish Bar if you’re craving something a bit naughty.

Not sure where to go next? Check out my 2 weeks in Laos itinerary for a complete north to south route covering the best spots.

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