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WINE & DINE
heavenly
FLAVORS,
blissful
VIEWS
Savannakhet – literally meaning the land of heaven – is also the land of fantastic cuisine! BY FRANCIS SAVANHKHAM
S
ome of Savannakhet’s most striking features are the Mekong and its indigenous food. Local entrepreneur, Amphone Nhotxayviboun has combined these at Laoview Riverfront Restaurant. Built in a modern style, but with architectural elements reflecting Savannakhet’s long past, this eatery blends the best of the old and the new. From the long verandah at sunset, guests enjoy sweeping panoramas of the sun’s orange rays splashing on the Mekong while fishermen ply the waters checking their nets. This makes the river views from this restaurant among the best in Savannakhet. The food is a Lao-Thai fusion with an emphasis on fish from the Mekong, especially their bestselling Fried Mekong Catfish, which is a hit with both foreigners and locals alike. Other favorites include traditional larb
made from Mekong fish, frog sausage, and stir-fried ostrich with black pepper. The restaurant uses the freshest organic ingredients from farmers and fish sourced locally from fishermen on the Mekong every morning, so that quality is ensured. Buying straight from local producers gives more money directly to local fishermen and farmers. Savannakhet is also home to a number of local artisans. To help promote these beautiful crafts, Laoview Riverfront Restaurant has a brand of products called “Huglaos” which are available for sale. These unique items are made from Lao cotton, including shirts, bags, traditional skirts, scarves, and dolls. All products are handmade in Laos
