Nong Khai

An authentic Lao and Isan chicken noodle soup featuring handmade chewy rice-tapioca noodles in a fragrant, peppery broth infused with lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. This beloved comfort food is traditionally served for breakfast and represents the heart of Lao home cooking. The name translates to 'wet rice noodles,' describing the silky, slightly translucent noodles that are cooked directly in the aromatic chicken broth, creating a naturally thickened, soul-warming soup.

An Isan-style clear soup featuring tender soft-fleshed fish (sheatfish or butter catfish) simmered in an aromatic broth with ginger, herbs, and tamarind. This northeastern Thai specialty showcases the delicate, sweet flesh of pla nuea on, a prized freshwater fish that lacks the muddy taste common in other freshwater varieties. Unlike the more common tom yum, this soup emphasizes ginger over galangal and features a harmonious balance of sour, salty, and subtly sweet flavors characteristic of Isan cuisine. The clear, light broth allows the natural sweetness of the fish to shine through while being enhanced by aromatic herbs like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and fresh vegetables. This comforting bowl reflects the resourceful cooking traditions of northeastern Thailand, where freshwater fish and foraged herbs are staples of everyday cuisine.