Senglao Café blends Lao tradition to create fusion cuisine

Tucked away down a leafy lane off Nongbone Road in Vat Naxay village, Xaysettha district, Vientiane, the Senglao Café offers more than just a meal—it serves up a full sensory experience, blending a legacy of cinema, culinary creativity, and a warm, nostalgic atmosphere that has made it a favourite among locals.

The pizza is served straight from the oven, making the cheese deliciously melted and gooey.

Grilled beef brisket with tamarind sauce, served with fresh vegetables, crispy riverweed, and deep fried sticky rice with egg.

At the heart of the Senglao Café’s appeal is its signature fusion menu, which elevates local ingredients with a global twist.
Among the most popular dishes is the Pizza Luang Prabang sausage, topped with sliced northern-style Sai oua, melted cheese, and fresh herbs. Equally distinctive is the pizza fermented pork, which delivers a punchy combination of Sommoo (fermented pork), chilli, and tomato paste on a crisp crust—an unexpected but delightful marriage of East and West.
Other highlights include the grilled beef brisket with tamarin jaew sauce, pairing slow-cooked, tender meat with a smoky Lao dipping sauce, and the laab pasta, a bold take on the classic Lao shredded meat salad tossed with spaghetti.
Those with a sweet tooth can enjoy homemade desserts like brownies or cakes, while drinks range from iced coconut espresso and tamarind iced tea to fruit smoothies and locally-blended coffee.
But the Senglao Café is more than just food—it’s an immersive space inspired by Lao cinema history.
Every piece of furniture and décor has a story, salvaged from the original Senglao Theatre, which was once run by the café owner’s father.
A representative of the Senglao Cafe told the Vientiane Times that the idea behind this inspired enterprise was to preserve the spirit of the theatre, where people came together to enjoy stories and escape daily life, and now visitors can do that through food, art, and conversation at the cafe.

Pizza Luang Prabang sauage.

Mr Sayson Khambounheuang explains about the concept of the popular eatery.

As its popularity has grown, so has recognition. The café was selected to provide catering during the 2024 ASEAN Summit, which Laos chaired. The fusion menu was served to regional leaders and guests, proudly showcasing Lao hospitality and culinary innovation on the international stage.
In a crowning achievement, the café was honoured to welcome Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand during her visit to Laos in April this year. The Princess’s visit was a proud moment for the café’s team and a meaningful tribute to its commitment to preserving Lao culture and fostering creativity.
“We were incredibly humbled and deeply grateful for the immense honour of welcoming Her Royal Highness to our café,” said Senglao Restaurant Managaer,  Mr Sayson Khambounheuang.
The café continues to expand its offerings. In addition to a daily dine-in service, it provides full catering solutions, event hosting, and private rooms.
The on-site bakery and coffee roastery add an interactive touch, while customised event packages—complete with live cooking stations—make it a favourite choice for private functions and celebrations.

Senglao staff welcome a guest to the cafe.

The name “Senglao”, meaning “light of Laos”, symbolises the café’s roots and mission: to shine a light on Lao creativity, cuisine, and culture through every plate, poster, and playlist.

By Souksamai Boulom
 (Latest Update June 24, 2025)