Laos in Town

Laotian flavors have a quiet way of turning up in Washington’s dining scene, often tucked into corners where the city’s international roots run deep. One such spot is Laos in Town, a restaurant that brings the bold, herbal notes of Southeast Asian cooking to the edge of Capitol Hill. The menu leans into comfort food without sacrificing the bright, tangy edges that set Laotian dishes apart—think lemongrass, galangal, and chilies working in harmony.

You’ll find it at 250 K St NE, Washington, DC 20002, in a stretch of the neighborhood where row houses and small businesses blur into something unpretentious and lived-in. The area has a way of feeling both central and out of the way, a pocket where locals and visitors alike end up when they’re after something unfussy but memorable. Lunch and dinner draw steady crowds, whether it’s solo diners stopping in for a quick bite or groups settling in for a longer meal.

Beyond the food, the drinks list holds its own. Cocktails and beer share space with a tea selection that feels thoughtful rather than obligatory, and happy hour offers a low-key way to ease into the evening. Coffee and alcohol round out the offerings, making it a place that works just as well for a midday pick-me-up as it does for an after-work drink. Fast service keeps things moving, though there’s no rush to leave once you’re seated.

For directions or to check availability, the map is here. If you’re curious about the menu or timing, a call to (202) 864-6687 should sort it out. Sometimes the best meals come from places you weren’t originally looking for.