August 2025 I've been to Vang Vieng a few times now. I've seen the tubing, the hostels, the backpackers trying to find themselves in a puddle of Beerlao. And amidst all that glorious chaos, there's Greens. I've been coming here for the last 3 years.
Greens isn't fancy. There are no white tablecloths, no sommeliers with ponytails telling you about the terroir of their grapes. It's just a joint. A place where you can get a proper meal. And by proper meal, I'm talking Laotian food. The kind that makes you sweat, that makes your lips tingle, and that reminds you that you are, in fact, alive.
The laab. This isn't some tourist-trap version, bland and apologetic. This is the real deal. It’s a fiery mosaic of minced meat, toasted rice powder, and a vibrant bouquet of herbs that explodes in your mouth. You get the crunch, the heat, the citrusy tang—it’s a perfect, beautiful mess. It’s the kind of dish that whispers, "Welcome to Laos." Probably best avoided by those who find black pepper "toooo spicy".
And the papaya salad? Get Lao spicy. Phet phet. It's a gut-punch of flavour, sour and funky and fiery all at once. It's the kind of dish that makes you question your life choices while simultaneously making you grateful for them. It’s the culinary equivalent of getting punched in the face by a stranger who then hands you a cold Beerlao.
For three years, ten times, maybe more, this place has delivered. Consistently. Reliably. So when I see those one-star reviews from some pale, self-proclaimed "foodie" complaining about getting food poisoning from their sad, beige eggs Benedict, I wonder: what the hell are you even doing in Vang Vieng? You came all this way to eat breakfast from a suburban American diner? Go home. Stick to chain restaurants, and leave the real food to the people who appreciate it. You don't...
Read moreGreen Restaurant in Vang Vieng is a cozy, home-based eatery that has built its charm on simplicity and flavor. The menu offers an impressive variety, ranging from flavorful stir-fry dishes to wood-fired pizzas that are a must-try. Each dish bursts with authentic flavors, making it a haven for food lovers who enjoy well-prepared, hearty meals.
However, the cleanliness of the kitchen is an area that needs improvement. Since it operates as a home-based model, it may lack the hygiene standards one might expect from a more formal restaurant.
What stands out is the affordability of the dishes. Whether you’re on a budget or just looking for great value for money, this restaurant won’t disappoint. The stir-fry dishes are especially delicious, with bold flavors that leave you craving more. The wooden-baked pizzas, with their crispy crusts and fresh toppings, add a delightful Western twist to the menu.
The environment is simple yet welcoming, with a laid-back vibe that reflects the charm of Vang Vieng. While not luxurious, it offers a relaxed setting perfect for casual dining after a day of exploring the town. If you’re looking for an affordable spot with flavorful food and a homey atmosphere, Green Restaurant is worth checking out, despite the minor downside of its...
Read moreCame in on a busy evening as a couple . Ordered a main and side each. One side came out after a really long wait, (other tables who arrived later were served first), then my main came. I ordered a red vegetable curry which was absolutely delicious! My boyfriend ordered a pizza and was getting really impatient as I had almost finished my curry when we saw his pizza coming out of the kitchen. We watched the waiter put it down on 3 different tables and try to walk away from it before he came over to us and delivered it to the right table. The second side dish didn't ever arrive. The toilet was dirty, bin was overflowing and there was a long queue to pay at the end, staff at the payment counter didn't seem to know who had what.
I imagine it would be good to visit during the day when it's quiet but the staff didn't seem able to cope with the amount of people there which is a shame as I thought the...
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