Skip to content
Link copied to clipboard
The Khaopoon King Soup with shrimp at Vientiane Bistro, a new Lao restaurant in Kensington on Nov. 24, 2018. The painting of Buddha is from the walls of the restaurant. The Buddhism practiced in Laos is of the Theravada tradition. CHARLES FOX / Staff Photographer
The Khaopoon King Soup with shrimp at Vientiane Bistro, a new Lao restaurant in Kensington on Nov. 24, 2018. The painting of Buddha is from the walls of the restaurant. The Buddhism practiced in Laos is of the Theravada tradition. CHARLES FOX / Staff PhotographerRead moreCHARLES FOX / Staff Photographer
The 76 Badge

Restaurant Details

4728 Baltimore Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19143
(215) 726-1095
https://www.vientiane-cafe.com
vientianecafe
Doesn't take reservations

Vientiane Cafe

Featured on The 76
West PhiladelphiaSoutheast Asian, Lao, BYOB$$

This Cedar Park standby, decorated with shimmery Lao tapestries and ornate masks, is the original of two locations owned by this mother-daughter duo. (The second, a bistro in Kensington, is a neighborhood favorite). Both deliver bold renditions of Lao cuisine, from the khao poon “king soup” and soulful tom saap braised beef hot pot to crunchy rice naam salad with lettuce wraps. I can't resist the snappy lemongrass-infused links of grilled house sai gawk sausage served with sticky rice, or the shredded papaya salads pounded with a chili-fired lime juice dressing. Definitely go for the optional salt-fermented crabs to give that papaya salad a tidal glow. Double bonus: The Panthavong family also makes some of the most flavorful Thai food in Philly, and is excellent with gluten-free options.

How we choose our best lists

The Inquirer aims to represent the geographic, cultural, and culinary diversity of the region in its coverage. Inquirer staffers and contributors do not accept free or comped meals — all meals are paid for by the Inquirer. All dining recommendations are made solely by the Inquirer editorial staffers and contributors based on their reporting and expertise, without input from advertisers or outside interests.

Also appears in