Khua Kao in Luang Prabang in Laos is an open-air restaurant that offers “a taste of Laos”; so we decided to try it.
Khua Kao in Luang Prabang in Laos. Restaurant Review.
The restaurant is on a deck that overlooks the Nam Khan River…
…as well as the Old French Bridge, on which motor vehicles are not permitted — with the exception of motor scooters and motorbikes.
We started off with the vegetarian fresh spring rolls, whose filling was crunchy — and indeed fresh. ₭70,000 or Lao kip
Next came the Holy Basil Stir Fry with seafood, which was accompanied by white rice and three slices of cucumbers. The flavors were incredible. ₭90,000 or Lao kip
The flavors of the Cashew Nut Stir Fry with Shrimp were also amazing. ₭90,000 or Lao kip
I am not sure what was this bowl of broth that came with each entrée — it was somewhat bland on its own — but it mixed well with the entrée.
Ya can’t go wrong with a lime soda with fresh lime juice. At least, I can’t go wrong. ₭40,000 or Lao kip
Final Boarding Call
Khua Kao in Luang Prabang in Laos is an open-air restaurant that is located near the south bank of the Nam Khan River adjacent to the west entrance of the Old French Bridge.
The food was very good and inexpensive, as the total cost of the meal was ₭320,000 or Lao kip, which converts to approximately $15.00 in United States dollars. I recommend Khua Kao as an ideal location for lunch in Luang Prabang with views of the river and the bridge — or for dinner if you prefer viewing the lights near the river at night.
We did not order any alcoholic beverages, as none of us were interested in them.
Reservations are not necessary.
Khua Kao
Ban Muen Na
Luang Prabang 06000
Laos
+856 020 96 546 441
Operating Hours
11:00 in the morning through 9:00 in the evening, seven days per week.
Credit cards are not accepted; but cash can be used for payment. Loca is a popular mobile software application program in Laos that can be used for payment as well.
All photographs ©2026 by Brian Cohen.
