Khaiphaen, Luang Prabang Travel Guide

4.7 (598)

Savor authentic Lao cuisine at Khaiphaen in Luang Prabang, a restaurant with a mission to empower disadvantaged youth through culinary training.

Khaiphaen is more than just a restaurant; it's a social enterprise in Luang Prabang offering delicious Lao cuisine while providing vocational training to disadvantaged youth. Named after a local delicacy of crispy Mekong River weed, it's a must-visit for food lovers seeking an authentic and meaningful dining experience.

A brief summary to Khaiphaen

100 Sisavang Vatana Road, Ban Wat Nong (Between the French Institute and the Mekong River), Luang Prabang, LA
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Monday 11 am-9:30 pm
Tuesday 11 am-9:30 pm
Wednesday 11 am-9:30 pm
Thursday 11 am-9:30 pm
Friday 11 am-9:30 pm
Saturday 11 am-9:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Khaiphaen.

Try the namesake dish, Khaiphaen, made from crispy Mekong River weed, a local delicacy unique to Luang Prabang.
Ask the friendly staff for a tour of the kitchen to learn more about the restaurant's vocational training program.
Explore the gift shop for ethically sourced souvenirs that support local communities.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Luang Prabang Old Quarter

National Museum

Haw Phra Bang

Phousi Hill

Wat Xiengthong

Explore Khaiphaen on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Khaiphaen, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

Khaiphaen is located on Sisavang Vatana Road, between the French Institute and the Mekong River. If you are in the city center, such as near the Royal Palace or Mount Phousi, it is easily accessible by foot. Walking along the main street, look for the restaurant's sign. The restaurant is located in a central area with many other shops and restaurants.
Tuk-tuk

Tuk-tuks are readily available throughout Luang Prabang. A short tuk-tuk ride from most locations in the city center to Khaiphaen should cost between 20,000 to 30,000 LAK. Be sure to negotiate the price before starting your journey. Tell the driver you want to go to Khaiphaen on Sisavang Vatana Road, near the French Institute.

Discover more about Khaiphaen

Khaiphaen is a unique dining experience that combines exquisite Laotian cuisine with a commitment to social responsibility. Located in the heart of Luang Prabang, between the French Institute and the Mekong River, this restaurant is named after "Khaiphaen," a local delicacy made from crispy Mekong River weed. This savory snack is a must-try, offering a distinct salty and nutty flavor.Khaiphaen is run by Peuan Mit, an organization founded by Friends-International, dedicated to supporting marginalized youth. The restaurant serves as a vocational training center, providing young Laotians from nearby villages with the skills and experience needed to succeed in the hospitality industry. Diners can enjoy a menu of fresh, locally sourced dishes while contributing to a worthy cause. The staff are known for their attentiveness and are happy to provide tours of the kitchen, adding to the overall experience.The restaurant's menu features a variety of traditional Lao dishes, including Larb (a ground meat dish), Mok Pa (freshwater fish dish), and Sai Oua (Lao sausage). Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, with the restaurant accommodating various dietary needs. Some popular dishes include crispy tofu with Khaiphaen salt and spicy green mango dip, and river fish and monkey mushroom dumplings with soybean and peanut dip.Khaiphaen provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists. The restaurant's commitment to ethical practices extends to its gift shop, which sells ethically sourced souvenirs and presents.