Harden's says
In another successful transition from pop-up to permanent, Lao Cafe (from the Rosa's Thai Cafe people) has landed in Covent Garden, following the popularity of its temporary home in Victoria last year.
Harden's survey result
Summary
This “modest but terrific” former pop-up near Trafalgar Square, from entrepreneurial Lao-Thai chef Saiphin Moore (of Rosa’s Thai), is “well worth the visit” for “good-sized portions” of “authentic” Laotian food – a lesser-known Asian cuisine with meals revolving around the staple of sticky rice.
Summary
“Excellent Laotian food” wins praise for this handily located small fixture, off Trafalgar Square (near ENO). “I’ve never had this cuisine before but it was excellent!”
Summary
“A funky little joint”, off Trafalgar Square and “very convenient for the Coliseum”, which was opened a couple of years ago by one of the founders of Rosa’s Thai; and which specialises in the cuisine of neighbouring Laos. “Lots of dishes seem novel, it’s certainly not like your average Thai, and the menu includes a selection of bugs! (actually quite tasty!!)”. The odd Asian food connoisseur feels it falls short (“having travelled in Laos, I found it expensive and rather disappointing”) but on most accounts it’s “excellent” for a “cheap ’n’ cheerful” bite.
For 33 years we've been curating reviews of the UK's most notable restaurant. In a typical year, diners submit over 50,000 reviews to create the most authoritative restaurant guide in the UK. Each year, the guide is re-written from scratch based on this survey (although for the 2021 edition, reviews are little changed from 2020 as no survey could run for that year).
Have you eaten at Lao Cafe?
60 Chandos Place, London, WC2N 4HG
Restaurant details
Lao Cafe Restaurant Diner Reviews
"A new find, Saturday evenings crowded, but Friday lunchtime a perfectly quiet venue. Enjoyed a Laotian chicken curry, fragrant and chilli hot. Jasmine tea perfect match. "
Prices
 Drinks |
|
|---|---|
| Wine per bottle | £18.00 |
| Filter Coffee | £3.00 |
 Extras |
|
|---|---|
| Bread | £0.00 |
| Service | 10.00% |
60 Chandos Place, London, WC2N 4HG
Opening hours
| Monday | 12 pm‑10 pm |
| Tuesday | 12 pm‑10 pm |
| Wednesday | 12 pm‑10 pm |
| Thursday | 12 pm‑10 pm |
| Friday | 12 pm‑10 pm |
| Saturday | 12 pm‑10 pm |
| Sunday | 12 pm‑10 pm |
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