On Luang Prabang’s main busy thoroughfare, a newly opened gem is making waves with a concept as clever as its cocktails are creative. Little Laos Culture Bar describes itself as a “love letter to Luang Prabang,” and it shows in every meticulous detail and bites. Here we have a menu that centres around small plates and communal dining and also revolves around jeow, the funky, fiery dipping sauces that anchor every Lao meal, offered at this hip, designer restaurant in 21 variations, categorised from “medium spicy” to the daredevil “Lao Burn”.
We came here on New Year’s Eve for a fantastic experience. Upstairs, the intimate Sun Song Social bar serves inventive cocktails (try the Lao Bloody Mary) infused with indigenous ingredients like Sakaan wood and peppercorn. The setting itself is a gallery-worthy showcase of local craftsmanship, from the Ming River stone bar top to floral walls made by local artisans. Adjacent to the restaurant is a stylish concept store, filled with luxurious local brands showcasing regional craftsmanship and design.
