- Attraction: Sticky Rice Lao Street Food
- Location: 1915 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
- Industry: Restaurant
- Website: https://www.stickywithit.com/
Since 2017, a vibrant culinary revolution has been brewing along Colonial Drive. Sticky Rice Lao Street Food stands as Central Florida’s first and only authentic Laotian restaurant, earning recognition from the Michelin Guide and capturing the hearts of adventurous food lovers throughout Orlando.
This tapas-style eatery specializes in traditional Lao street food, where communal dining meets bold Southeast Asian flavors. You’ll discover an entirely different culinary experience here compared to typical Thai restaurants.
The menu focuses on genuine Laotian cuisine, where sticky rice isn’t just a side dish—it’s meant to be eaten with your hands as the foundation of your meal, just as it’s enjoyed throughout Laos.
Must-Try Menu Highlights
Lemongrass Beef Jerky: This isn’t your typical convenience store jerky. The beef arrives tender yet perfectly chewy, marinated in aromatic lemongrass and flash-fried to create a moist, flavorful protein that’s completely different from dried jerky. The balance of herbs and spices makes this dish irresistible and uniquely Laotian.
Crispy Rice Lettuce Wraps: These addictive little parcels combine crispy rice with cured pork and fresh vegetables served laab-style. You’ll wrap the mixture in fresh lettuce leaves, creating perfect handheld bites packed with contrasting textures and bold flavors.
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Keep Exploring →Coconut Curry Ramen: Rich, savory coconut broth surrounds fresh rice noodles, creating a warming bowl that’s both comforting and exotic. The tender shrimp and aromatic spices deliver complex flavors without being overly heavy or greasy.
Laab Varieties: Whether you choose chicken, steak, or pork belly, these traditional meat salads tossed with toasted rice powder, cilantro, lime, and mint offer bright, herbaceous flavors. The steak laab particularly stands out with perfectly balanced seasonings and tender meat.
Pork Tapioca Dumplings: Round balls of translucent tapioca replace traditional wheat flour wrappers, creating a unique texture filled with well-seasoned ground pork and aromatic herbs. These chewy, satisfying dumplings showcase the creative differences in Laotian cuisine.
Purple Sticky Rice with Mango: The signature dessert features vibrant purple rice paired with fresh mango chunks, coconut sauce, and toasted coconut flakes. This clever interpretation of a classic Southeast Asian dessert provides the perfect sweet ending to your meal.
Kapoon Nam Gai: Rice vermicelli noodles swim in a rich curry coconut broth alongside chicken, bamboo shoots, red cabbage, mint, and cilantro. This warming soup delivers layers of flavor and satisfying comfort.
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Discover MoreAtmosphere & Décor
Communal Dining Experience: You’ll share long wooden tables with other diners, creating an authentic street food atmosphere that encourages conversation and cultural exchange. The communal setup mirrors traditional Asian dining where meals are meant to be social experiences.
Vibrant Wall Art: Massive colorful murals featuring Laotian-inspired artwork cover the walls, including a striking three-headed elephant mural representing the former kingdoms of Laos. The artistic elements create an immersive cultural environment that transports you beyond Orlando.
Unique Lighting: Suspended light fixtures crafted to resemble sticky rice baskets add charming design elements that reinforce the restaurant’s cultural authenticity while providing warm, inviting illumination.
Counter-Service Setup: You’ll order at the front counter before finding your seat, creating a casual, relaxed environment. The self-serve water station and hand-washing area accommodate the traditional practice of eating with your hands.
Intimate Space: The small, cozy interior creates an intimate atmosphere where the focus remains on authentic food and genuine cultural experience rather than flashy décor.
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Keep Exploring →Other Considerations
Affordable Pricing: Most dishes range from $8-17, making this excellent value for the quality and authenticity you receive. You can easily order multiple small plates to share without breaking the budget, with most diners spending around $20-30 per person for a satisfying meal.
Small Plate Concept: The tapas-style portions encourage trying multiple dishes, allowing you to explore various flavors and textures throughout Laotian cuisine. Two to three dishes typically satisfy one person, while five items work perfectly for couples.
Limited Parking: The restaurant offers parking beside and behind the building, though spaces can fill up quickly during peak hours. Arriving slightly earlier or later than typical meal times helps avoid parking challenges.
Cultural Experience: This isn’t just dining—it’s cultural immersion. You’ll learn proper eating techniques, discover new flavor combinations, and experience authentic Laotian hospitality in Orlando’s most unique restaurant setting.
Fast Service: Despite the fresh preparation, food arrives quickly after ordering. The efficient kitchen ensures you won’t wait long even during busy periods.
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Discover MoreBeverage Selection: Imported Lao and Thai lagers perfectly complement the bold flavors, while Thai iced tea and flavored iced coffees provide refreshing alternatives that pair beautifully with spicy dishes.
Vegetarian Options: While the menu leans heavily toward meat dishes, several vegetarian options exist, though choices remain somewhat limited for plant-based diners.
Sticky Rice Lao Street Food
📍 1915 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
