The main thoroughfares of Luang Prabang may possess an all encompassing calm, but tucked into the depths of the city lay buzzing alleys filled with colorful life. Once darkness falls over the city, the old quarter transforms into a lively night market where locals sell their various wares to visitors eagerly willing to buy. Neatly segmented and tented, tourists may not see any reason to stray from the plotted out shopping byways. However, sticking to the market’ beaten path is an unfortunately common and for your stomach  grave mistake.

In the alleys pleating off Sisavangvong Road the community gathers to take care of various needs. Towards the start of the market, one alley in particular stands out with a constant stream of locals pulsating in and out. A walk through the narrow passageway quickly reveals the reason why. Home to a massive vegetarian buffet the alley is a veritable culinary cabaret. At only 10,000₭ (~$1.50) for all the meat-free concoctions you can eat “veggie alley” is as easy on the wallet as it is on the stomach.

follow your nose and the locals to this buzzing for all the vegetarian fare you can eat

my definition of heaven: customized papaya salad made to order

time to load up on the greens

can’t go wrong with freshly grilled meat on a stick (the fish was especially delicious); meats and drinks cost extra but not very much

surveying the night market buffet scene

To get here on your own follow the locals and your nose. There’s no street designation but any Luang Prabang resident worth there salt can point you in the right direction. Come early and hungry, leave happy.