Popular Drinks in Vientiane

1. Beer Lao (Beer Laos)

• Description: Beer Lao is the most famous local beer in Laos. It has a crisp, refreshing taste and is available in several variations, including Beer Lao Lager and Beer Lao Dark.
• Best Enjoyed With: Beer Lao pairs well with spicy Lao dishes, grilled meats, and local snacks.

2. Lao Lao (Lao Rice Whiskey)

• Description: Lao Lao is a traditional rice whiskey made from fermented sticky rice. It is a strong, homemade liquor that has been distilled for generations. Some variations of Lao Lao are flavored with herbs, roots, or fruits.
• Best Enjoyed With: It’s often served with a shot of water or soda, and sometimes with beer. It is commonly consumed in a social setting.

3. Fresh Fruit Juices

• Description: Tropical fruits such as mango, papaya, pineapple, and watermelon are abundant in Laos. Freshly squeezed juices are popular in Vientiane, and you’ll find many stalls selling them throughout the city.
• Best Enjoyed With: Fresh fruit juices are perfect on a hot day and are often served as a refreshing drink in the morning or as an accompaniment to light meals.

4. Coconut Water

• Description: Coconut water is a popular refreshing drink in Laos, especially during the hot summer months. It is often sold in its natural form with the coconut shell as the cup.
• Best Enjoyed With: It’s ideal for hydrating after a day of sightseeing and pairs well with light snacks.

5. Lao Coffee

• Description: Laos is known for its excellent coffee, especially from the coffee-growing regions in the highlands of Bolaven Plateau. The coffee here is often strong and is typically served with sweetened condensed milk, similar to Vietnamese iced coffee.
• Best Enjoyed With: Lao coffee is perfect for a pick-me-up in the morning or during a relaxing afternoon in a café.

6. Iced Tea (Cha Yen)

• Description: A sweet, iced tea drink that is common in Laos and Thailand, Cha Yen is made with strong tea and condensed milk, creating a sweet, creamy beverage that’s perfect for the hot climate.
• Best Enjoyed With: It’s an excellent choice for a refreshing afternoon drink.

Popular Places and Bars to Drink in Vientiane

1. The River Bar

• Type: Casual bar with a river view
• Location: Near the Mekong River
• Description: This bar offers a relaxed atmosphere with outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying a sunset drink by the river. It serves a variety of cocktails, local beers (including Beer Lao), and some international beverages.
• Vibe: Chill, casual, great for sunset views
• What to Drink: Beer Lao, cocktails, and fresh fruit juices

2. Chao Anouvong Park Café

• Type: Coffee shop with views
• Location: Chao Anouvong Park, central Vientiane
• Description: A great spot to enjoy coffee and light snacks while relaxing in the park. The café offers a peaceful environment for those looking to enjoy some quiet time.
• Vibe: Relaxed, local coffee culture
• What to Drink: Lao coffee, iced tea, fresh juices

3. The 252 Bar & Lounge

• Type: Trendy bar and lounge
• Location: On the main road near the city center
• Description: A modern, stylish bar known for its cocktails and great music. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
• Vibe: Upscale, trendy, lively
• What to Drink: Cocktails, Beer Lao, and whiskey

4. The Green Mango

• Type: Pub and nightclub
• Location: Setthathirath Road
• Description: The Green Mango is one of Vientiane's most popular nightlife venues. It has a fun, energetic vibe with a mix of locals and tourists. The bar serves a variety of cocktails, beer, and local drinks.
• Vibe: Lively, nightclub atmosphere
• What to Drink: Cocktails, Beer Lao, spirits

5. Bor Pen Nyang Bar

• Type: Local bar
• Location: Vientiane city center
• Description: A relaxed, local-style bar where you can enjoy Lao Lao rice whiskey and other local beverages. It’s a great place to meet locals and enjoy traditional Lao drinks in an authentic setting.
• Vibe: Local, casual, laid-back
• What to Drink: Lao Lao, Beer Lao, local snacks

6. Lao Spirit Bar

• Type: Whiskey bar and lounge
• Location: Near the Mekong River
• Description: Lao Spirit Bar specializes in Lao whiskey and offers a variety of spirits and cocktails. It’s a great spot to enjoy traditional and international drinks in a cozy setting.
• Vibe: Cozy, traditional whiskey bar
• What to Drink: Lao Lao, whiskey cocktails, Beer Lao

7. La Cave Wine Bar

• Type: Wine bar
• Location: Vientiane city center
• Description: A more sophisticated option for wine lovers, La Cave offers a selection of wines and cocktails. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for a more refined drinking experience.
• Vibe: Elegant, relaxed, quiet
• What to Drink: Wine, cocktails, spirits

8. Indigo Café

• Type: Café and bar
• Location: Near the Mekong River
• Description: Known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful setting, Indigo Café serves a range of beverages, including coffee, cocktails, and fresh juices. It’s a great place to relax while enjoying drinks with a view of the river.
• Vibe: Relaxed, scenic, cozy
• What to Drink: Fresh fruit juices, Lao coffee, cocktails