Sticky Rice

I tried this restaurant Monday night and it was amazing, truth to be told. I didn’t know much about Laos food and now I am beginning to understand it. it’s a great introduction to a culture that’s little known about. the stuff was amazing. the gentleman that took care of me genuinely gave me his ear and obviously made the perfect suggestion as an introduction to their restaurant. it’s a mom and pop operation and obviously they shine above the rest. they know their food very well and they know how to serve it. the atmosphere rather relaxed and positive vibe throughout. The setting what you would expect. downright home street food like, to me it felt like I was somewhere in Asia sitting with complete strangers sharing the tables. and it felt exactly like when I went into Thailand and they had these wonderful tables for sharing where you can sit and eat with a complete stranger. it’s a wonderful experience. the food was stunning and the place overall is small. and that’s what attracts me to these places, it felt right. this is the kind of place where it’s a great place to eat and hang out with friends or a complete stranger. you’ll be amazed to know that it is not the ordinary, but the extraordinary. kudos to the management and the owners for they have done something I truly exceptional. I had what they call a laab with steak and rice and let me tell you it is not something you would normally get anywhere and everywhere, again, they are an exception to the rule. go there. stop reading, and just get there. and enjoy it!

One of my favorite meals of the year. Everything I ordered was a hit. I felt lucky to have Laotian food executed at this level. In two words: pungent and chewy. And the food was unmistakably Southeast Asian.

The pork tapioca dumplings had the chewy texture of great boba with a slightly sweet pork filling and a lot of fried garlic on top. It reminded me of one of my favorite breakfast dishes I had growing up, though our version used jicama instead of pork. Dishes that evoke memories tend to be our favorites.

The lemongrass beef jerky was soft and, again, chewy in a way that’s like the midpoint of American jerky and velveted beef. Lots of lemongrass as advertised in the name. Perfect amount of salt that lets the meat release flavors and juices with each bite. I’m salivating thinking about it.

The larb’s flavor profile is similar to the Thai version with lots of onion, scallion, cilantro, lime, and toasted rice. This one was served with sticky rice, the soul of Lao food. The pork belly was boiled for less time compared to other cuisines so it remains chewy instead of meltingly soft.

Everything was so affordable. I was pleasantly surprised at how much food I got for the price. And the flavors are much better than you’d find at many fancy restaurants. Strong recommend.