Hidden-above-a-pub Laotian/Thai spot delivering bold, spicy flavors with quick, friendly service and fair central London pricing, though spice can run hot and a few guests report service misfires.
This hidden-gem Laotian restaurant delivers bold, authentic flavors with standout laab and papaya salad paired with quick, friendly service that keeps diners returning. The generally reliable execution and fair central London pricing make it competitive with the area's better neighborhood restaurants, though the modest pub-above setting and occasional consistency dips in secondary dishes prevent grade A territory.
Up a narrow staircase above a traditional pub, the room feels warm and bustling rather than polished, with the kind of hidden-gem energy people love to discover. Servers move quickly and most diners rave about the food arriving fast; one happy guest shared, "We ordered upstairs and they brought it down to the pub, super convenient." While the vibe is relaxed, expect a lively pub buzz and the occasional tight squeeze at peak times. The kitchen leans Laotian with Thai support, and it shows in the boldness of the flavors—papaya salad with fermented depth, sticky rice baskets, house-made sausage, and even raw prawns in spicy fish sauce. The culinary approach leans authentic regional with a contemporary mix: distinctly Lao dishes complemented by familiar Thai staples. Most plates hit big on herbs and heat; a few diners found certain dishes oily or the pho underwhelming, so stick to the Lao signatures if you want the best of the menu. For families, the food options are surprisingly accommodating thanks to the pub section downstairs—fish and chips, burgers, and mild noodles can keep younger eaters happy while adults explore the spicier Lao items. Desserts like banana fritters and ice cream are easy wins for kids. One review mentioned a less welcoming interaction with children upstairs, but that was an outlier; food-wise, there are plenty of kid-friendly choices.
Area vibe: Central London zone near Waterloo with a mix of commuters, tourists, and locals; lively pub culture.
Safety: Generally safe, busy thoroughfares; occasional doorway crowding by smokers noted.
What's nearby: Steps from Waterloo Station, near South Bank attractions like the London Eye; pub downstairs provides drinks; restaurant upstairs.
Go for the Laab, Sai Oua and the whole grilled Pun Pa, plus a noodle dish and banana fritters for dessert.
It’s a small, lively room above a pub that fills up fast, so book ahead and expect a service charge.
A cosy, no-frills upstairs room above a pub with quick service and a definite lively buzz.