Ock Pop Tok (which translates to “East meets West” in Lao) is a well-known social enterprise and weaving center in Luang Prabang. It is located on the banks of the Mekong River, providing a scenic and tranquil setting for visitors.
The center offers various activities related to traditional Lao textiles and crafts, including weaving workshops and demonstrations. Additionally, they have a beautiful restaurant that serves Lao cuisine, making it a popular spot for tourists to enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the serene views of the river.
Ock Pop Tok at Silk Road Cafe offered a delightful selection of Lao cuisine at their restaurant. Lao food is known for its bold flavors, aromatic herbs, and unique combination of textures. Here are some traditional Lao dishes that you might find on the menu at Ock Pop Tok:
Laap/Larb: A minced meat salad usually made with chicken, pork, or fish, mixed with herbs, lime juice, fish sauce, and toasted ground rice.
Tam Mak Houng: Green papaya salad, a refreshing mix of shredded unripe papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, lime juice, and chili.
Mok Pa: Fish steamed with herbs and spices inside a banana leaf.
Or Lam: A hearty stew with vegetables, meat (often buffalo or pork), and fragrant herbs.
Khao Soi: Not to be confused with the Northern Thai dish of the same name, Lao Khao Soi is a soup made with wide rice noodles in a rich, spiced broth, often served with beef or chicken.
Sai Oua: Lao sausages made from minced pork, herbs, and spices.
Sticky Rice: A staple in Lao cuisine, served with various dishes and eaten by hand.
Mok Pa: A popular Lao dish consisting of fish steamed with herbs and spices inside a banana leaf.
Houmok: A type of Lao fish mousse made with coconut milk, herbs, and spices.
Kaeng Nor Mai: Bamboo shoot soup, often cooked with pork or chicken and flavored with herbs and chili.
These are just a few examples, and the menu at Ock Pop Tok may vary depending on the season and availability of ingredients. Don’t hesitate to ask the restaurant staff for recommendations or more information about the dishes they serve. Remember, the best way to experience Lao cuisine is to try a variety of dishes and savor the unique flavors and textures that the country has to offer. Enjoy your meal!
