$$$$Price: Expensive • Laotian • Columbia Heights / Brightwood
Thip Khao is acclaimed chef Seng Luangrath's flagship restaurant in Columbia Heights, Washington, DC. Thip Khao serves up spicy Lao (or Laotian) dishes and classic cocktails with an exotic twist. Lao cuisine leverages tropical herbs and cooking techniques of Southeast Asia. However, the flavor profile is distinct from its fellow SE Asian countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia. Dishes like Naem Khao (Crispy Rice Salad), Sai Oua (lemongrass pork sausage), Laab, and Tam Muk Houng (Lao papaya salad) at Thip Khao showcase the unique flavors of Laos. Many dishes are served with sticky rice. Chef Seng recommends eating sticky rice with your hands as most Laotians do. Since its opening, the restaurant has been well received by Washingtonians and critics alike. The restaurant has had national recognition from multiple publications including New York Times, Washington Post, Bon Apetit magazine, Washingtonian magazine, and Michelin Guide (Bib Gourmand).
