Attentive staff ensure that every guest receives warm and friendly service.

Secret cafe offers green dining in the heart of Vientiane

The Forest Cafe, in Saynamngern village, Xaythany district, Vientiane,  has quickly captivated the hearts and palates of diners seeking a blend of exquisite food, serene ambiance, and friendly service.
This charming establishment, born from the owner’s passion for nature, promises an unforgettable dining experience that feels miles away from the city’s busy streets yet is easily accessible.
The genesis of The Forest Cafe is as organic as its surroundings, a testament to the vision of its owner, Mr Phayvanh Sihavong.
 

A selection of freshly prepared dishes.

“This place used to be my private garden retreat, a little haven where I had a small house,” he said.
“I’ve always loved plants and gardening. One day, a friend suggested that I set up a restaurant here. That spark ignited the idea, and soon it transformed into The Forest Cafe.”
The name itself is a natural fit, reflecting the cafe’s verdant setting, enveloped by trees and tucked away from the main thoroughfare, earning it the affectionate moniker of a “secret cafe” among its patrons.
The cafe officially opened its doors in November 2023 and has flourished ever since.
The initial months witnessed an overwhelming response, a clear indicator of the cafe’s appeal.
“In the first three to four months, business boomed. We had lots of customers and were packed out for both lunch and dinner each day,” Mr Phayvanh recalls with a proud smile.
The evenings, especially in the dry season, are particularly enchanting with live folk music filling the air as guests dine al fresco.
When the rainy season arrives, a soothing chorus produced by frogs and cicadas creates a different but equally pleasing atmosphere.
The owner’s personal aesthetic is directly reflected in the cafe’s unique design. The welcoming ambiance created by this well-considered layout allows visitors to relax and re-establish a connection with nature.
“Customers love the decor because it gives them the feeling of dining amidst nature, offering cool shade and comfort, something that’s hard to find in the city centre these days,” Mr Phayvanh said.
The Forest Cafe attracts a discerning clientele, mostly ranging from mid to high-level professionals. To cater to their varied needs, the cafe offers an array of amenities.

Guests enjoy a meal in a refreshing outdoor atmosphere.

“We have a VIP area that is perfect for meetings and seminars and can accommodate 20-30 people. We also host various celebratory events, with a capacity for up to 150 guests,” Mr Phayvanh said. And for those looking for a bit of entertainment, there’s even a karaoke room.
The culinary offerings are equally diverse, featuring both authentic Lao dishes and international cuisine, all with a strong emphasis on freshness and quality.
While the majority of customers are Lao, the friendly prices, starting from 50,000 kip, ensure that quality dining is accessible to all comers.

A tranquil garden setting where diners are surrounded by lush greenery.

Mr Phayvanh believes that the cafe’s strengths lie in its idyllic location, the exquisite food, and the impeccable service.
Ample parking space further enhances the attraction for diners, while the attentive staff are both friendly and efficient. 
“Our staff receive training from the DIFICT Mastery Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Centre, which conducts monthly evaluations to ensure consistent high standards,” Mr Phayvanh said.
“We plan to open a similar restaurant in early October, which will be located in Phakhao village, also in Xaythany district,” he added.
This means that even more people will be able to enjoy the special  charm and culinary delights provided by The Forest Cafe.
So treat yourself to a culinary journey where nature and gastronomy intertwine, and discover your own secret escape at The Forest Cafe.
The cafe opens every day from 9:00am  to 11:30pm, for reservations or enquiries, call the cafe on 020 57885588 or 020 58585868, or visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/theforestcafe.

By Lamphone Pasanthong
(Latest Update September 19, 2025)