Vientian Cafe

Green Papaya Salad

The Lao-style tum mak hoong — shredded papaya pounded with fish sauce, lime, and chilies, with more heat and funk than the Thai version most Bay Area diners know

Laab

Minced meat salad dressed with toasted rice powder, lime, and herbs — bright, savory, and textbook Lao

Sticky Rice

Served in the traditional bamboo basket — the essential accompaniment to almost every dish on the table

Noodle Soup

Lao-style broth-based noodle bowl — simpler and cleaner than pho, with rice noodles and your choice of protein