Skip to main content
Sign In

L'Eléphant Restaurant & Bar

$$Restaurant
🕑 1 to 1.5 hours👶 Best for all ages, from toddlers to teens. The kids' menu and relaxed vibe work well for younger children (ages 2-8), while older kids and teens appreciate trying new Lao dishes alongside more familiar Western options.

About

L'Eléphant Restaurant & Bar offers a welcoming respite for families exploring Luang Prabang's UNESCO World Heritage old town. With a diverse menu featuring both Lao specialties and familiar international dishes, plus dedicated kids' options, it's an ideal spot for families who want quality dining without the formality that can stress young travelers. The relaxed atmosphere and outdoor seating make it easy for children to feel comfortable while parents enjoy authentic local flavors.

Highlights

  • Dedicated kids' menu with familiar options alongside opportunities to try local cuisine
  • Outdoor seating area where children can be more relaxed and move around
  • Central location in old town makes it convenient during day trips and temple tours
  • English-speaking staff experienced with international families
  • Mix of Western and Lao dishes accommodates various preferences and adventurous eaters

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Request outdoor seating where kids can move around more freely and parents can relax without worrying about noise levels in a quiet dining room.
  2. 2.Order a mix of familiar dishes and local specialties to share family-style, letting adventurous eaters try authentic Lao cuisine while picky eaters have safe options.
  3. 3.Visit for lunch rather than dinner when kids tend to be less tired from sightseeing and more open to trying new foods.
  4. 4.The restaurant is centrally located in the old town, making it easy to walk to from most guesthouses. Consider timing your visit as a break during temple exploration.
  5. 5.English-speaking staff are accustomed to international families and can help modify dishes for children's tastes or dietary restrictions.

Best Time to Visit

Lunch service (11:30am to 2pm) is ideal for families, as kids are typically well-rested and the restaurant is less busy than dinner. Weekday lunches are quieter than weekends when both tourists and locals fill the tables.

What to Know

Mid-range pricing ($$) means expect to pay around $8-15 per adult entree and $5-8 for kids' meals. Credit cards are typically accepted, but confirm beforehand and carry some Lao kip for tips.

Seasonal Notes

Open year-round. The cool, dry season (November to February) makes outdoor seating most pleasant. During hot season (March to May) and rainy season (June to October), indoor seating with fans provides comfortable dining.

More Activities Near Luang Prabang

Restaurant

Tamarind Café

$$

Tamarind Café is a welcoming family restaurant in the heart of Luang Prabang that combines delicious Lao cuisine with a relaxed atmosphere perfect for dining with children. The restaurant features a diverse menu with dedicated kid-friendly options, spacious outdoor seating where children can move around comfortably, and even offers cooking classes that families can enjoy together to learn about authentic Lao flavors.

Cafe

Phongsali Organic Coffee Shop

$

This charming organic coffee shop offers families a peaceful retreat with stunning rooftop views of the Mekong River. Parents can enjoy locally-sourced Lao coffee while kids relax with snacks and juices in a laid-back atmosphere that welcomes travelers needing a quieter break from sightseeing. The rooftop setting provides a safe, contained space where children can unwind while adults recharge.

Activity

Night Market (Luang Prabang Night Bazaar)

The Luang Prabang Night Market transforms the main street into a colorful wonderland of handmade crafts, delicious street food, and local culture every evening. Kids will be captivated by the vibrant textiles, traditional music, and the chance to practice their bargaining skills while parents shop for unique souvenirs like silk scarves, bamboo crafts, and hand-painted lanterns.

Cafe

French Bakery (Boulangerie Luang Prabang)

$

This charming French-style bakery in Luang Prabang's UNESCO World Heritage old town offers a welcome taste of familiarity for traveling families. Kids will delight in fresh croissants, pastries, ice cream, and fresh fruit juices while parents recharge with excellent coffee in the pleasant seating area, making it an ideal breakfast spot or afternoon treat stop during temple tours.