Ban Anou Night Market
A vibrant local hub for authentic Lao street food, offering a true taste of Vientiane's culinary scene.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively local scene
Ban Anou Night Market
Best Time
Lively local scene

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant local hub for authentic Lao street food, offering a true taste of Vientiane's culinary scene.
"Highly recommended for anyone looking to experience authentic Lao street food in a vibrant atmosphere."
🎯 Embrace the Takeaway
Limited seating means most enjoy food on the go or at nearby spots. Perfect for a casual, authentic meal!
💰 Watch for Prices
Prices aren't always displayed. Be aware of potential tourist pricing and compare options.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Authentic Lao Street Food
Savor a wide array of local dishes, from grilled meats to spicy papaya salad. A true taste of Laos!

Vibrant Local Atmosphere
Immerse yourself in the bustling energy of locals enjoying their evening. A genuine Vientiane experience.

Unique Culinary Adventures
Dare to try exotic options like grilled insects alongside more familiar seafood and noodle dishes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Navigating the Market
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Embrace the Takeaway
Limited seating means most enjoy food on the go or at nearby spots. Perfect for a casual, authentic meal!
💰 Watch for Prices
Prices aren't always displayed. Be aware of potential tourist pricing and compare options.
Any recommendations for street‑side food markets in central Vientiane and central Luang Prabang?
🍜 Try the Sausage!
Some visitors rave about the delicious grilled sausage found here. Worth a taste!
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
If options are limited, grab food here and head to the larger night market down the street.
Good food in Vientiane?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Embrace the Takeaway
Limited seating means most enjoy food on the go or at nearby spots. Perfect for a casual, authentic meal!
💰 Watch for Prices
Prices aren't always displayed. Be aware of potential tourist pricing and compare options.
🍜 Try the Sausage!
Some visitors rave about the delicious grilled sausage found here. Worth a taste!
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
If options are limited, grab food here and head to the larger night market down the street.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ban Anou Night Market is a highly recommended spot for authentic Lao street food, praised for its vibrant local atmosphere and delicious grilled options like skewers and papaya salad. While it's a bit of a hidden gem and primarily caters to locals for takeaway with limited seating, visitors appreciate its authenticity and affordability. Some note that prices aren't always displayed and the market is smaller than others.
"Anou Night Market is a great spot for street food lovers, offering a wide variety of Lao dishes, with grilled meats and papaya salad being the standout choices. The prices are very reasonable, making it an excellent option for a casual meal. This slightly hidden gem is highly recommended for anyone looking to experience authentic Lao street food in a vibrant atmosphere."
Kitsada Saleumxay
"Went there on a Friday night, not much to eat, mostly bbq skewers. A lot of smoke, full of locals some by foot some stopping by bike. If that’s the kind of food you like then go for it, it looks better than the other markets in town, but no prices are showed so you might get the tourist price …"
Clémence Ailhaud
"Really small night market. Some food option, but not that many. We tried delicious sausage here though! Worth visiting if you have extra time."
Matheus Bender
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ban Anou Night Market is located in the Old Quarter of Vientiane. You can easily reach it by tuk-tuk or taxi from most parts of the city. It's a popular spot for locals, so drivers will likely know where it is.
While it's a bit of a hidden gem compared to the main riverside market, it's situated in a well-trafficked area. Walking around the Old Quarter will likely lead you to it.
Tuk-tuks are a fun and common way to get around Vientiane. Negotiate your fare before you get in. For longer distances or more comfort, taxis are also readily available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Ban Anou Night Market. It's a public space where you pay for the food and goods you purchase.
The market typically comes alive in the evenings and operates until late. While specific hours can vary, it's best to visit after sunset for the full experience.
No booking is required. Ban Anou Night Market is a casual, walk-in market. Just show up ready to explore and eat!
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a wide variety of authentic Lao street food, including grilled meats, skewers, papaya salad, noodles, seafood, and even some adventurous options like insects.
Seating is very limited, as the market primarily caters to locals looking for takeaway food. You might find a few small tables, but it's more common to eat while standing or take your food elsewhere.
While it caters more to locals, it's highly recommended for tourists seeking an authentic street food experience. Just be aware of the local vibe and limited tourist amenities.
Expect a lively, bustling atmosphere filled with locals. It can be smoky from the grills, but it's a vibrant and authentic Vientiane experience.
While food is the main draw, you might find some basic goods or snacks for sale. However, it's primarily a food-focused market.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Many visitors rave about the grilled meats and sausages. Papaya salad is also a popular and delicious choice. Don't be afraid to try something new!
Generally, prices are very reasonable, especially for locals. However, as prices aren't always displayed, be mindful of potential tourist pricing.
While the market is heavily focused on grilled meats and seafood, you might find some noodle dishes or vegetable-based sides. It's best to ask vendors directly.
Street food in Vientiane is generally considered safe, especially at busy markets like Ban Anou where food turnover is high. Use your best judgment and choose vendors with visible food preparation.
Yes, you can typically find a variety of local beverages, including water, soft drinks, and sometimes beer, to accompany your meal.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant street food stalls, the smoke rising from grills, and the lively interactions of locals. The evening light adds a great atmosphere.
It's generally acceptable to take photos, but it's always polite to ask for permission, especially if you're focusing on a specific vendor or person.
The market truly comes alive after dark, offering a unique ambiance with artificial lights and the glow of food stalls. Early evening provides a good balance before it gets too crowded.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful that the market can get crowded, especially on weekends, and the smoky environment might be a consideration for very young children. However, the experience of seeing locals shop and eat can be very educational and memorable for older kids. Focus on familiar-looking grilled items and enjoy the bustling energy together.
💰 Budget Travelers
Since it's primarily a takeaway market, you save on restaurant markups. Grab your food and enjoy it at a nearby park or the larger night market. This makes Ban Anou an excellent option for experiencing authentic Vientiane cuisine on a tight budget.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Authentic Vientiane Street Food Scene
While the market offers a genuine taste of local life, it's important to note that it's primarily a takeaway spot. Seating is scarce, so be prepared to enjoy your finds on the go or find a more comfortable perch at the larger night market located further down the street. This setup means the market has a more casual, grab-and-go vibe, which is part of its charm for those seeking an unpretentious local encounter.
For the adventurous eater, Ban Anou also presents opportunities to try more exotic fare, such as grilled insects. Even if you stick to more familiar dishes, the quality and affordability make it a standout destination for food lovers. Remember that prices aren't always clearly displayed, so a little awareness can help ensure you get fair value.
Understanding the Local Vibe
While it's a fantastic spot for experiencing local culture, it's worth noting that it's not heavily geared towards tourists. This means you might encounter fewer English speakers and a more utilitarian setup. However, this authenticity is precisely what many travelers seek. Embrace the local rhythm, point to what looks good, and enjoy the genuine Vientiane experience.
If you're looking for a more extensive shopping experience or a wider variety of tourist-oriented goods, the larger night market down the street might be more your speed. However, for an unadulterated taste of local Vientiane life and its incredible street food, Ban Anou is an essential stop.
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