Lao Larb in Calgary

Loved by our Calgary guests

Larb is the national dish of Laos, and it is one of the clearest reasons to seek out real Lao cooking in Calgary. Minced meat tossed with lime, herbs, chilli and toasted rice powder — sharp, herby, textured and completely unlike anything else on a Calgary menu.

Made to order: about 20 mins

Spice Level: Medium to Hot

National dish of Laos

What separates larb from an ordinary meat dish is toasted rice powder. Raw rice is dry-toasted until it smells nutty, then ground, and it gives the dish both a subtle crunch and a roasted depth that lime and chilli alone could never produce. Fresh herbs go in generously, off the heat, so they stay bright.

The balance is deliberately sharp: sour, salty, herbal and hot, with almost no fat to soften it. Eaten with sticky rice, it is a complete Lao meal. If you have been looking for authentic Lao cuisine in Alberta rather than a Thai approximation, larb is where to start.

Why Calgary Loves Our Larb

What Makes It Special

The national dish of Laos, rarely found in Calgary
Toasted rice powder for nutty depth and texture
Generous fresh herbs added off the heat
Bright with lime, sharp and clean tasting
Heat level adjustable to your preference

Best Ways to Enjoy It

With sticky rice — the traditional pairing
Beside Lao-style papaya salad for a full Lao table
As a lighter main with big flavour
Shared across the table family-style
Ordered milder if you are new to Lao heat

Larb is traditionally spicy — let us know your heat level when ordering.

What Guests Say About Kin Dee Street Kitchen

Tripadvisor Reviewer

Tripadvisor review

“As someone with Lao roots, I really appreciated the authentic Lao options on the menu—hard to find and beautifully done.”

Tripadvisor Reviewer

Tripadvisor review

“En sann skjult juvel! (A true hidden gem.)”

Tripadvisor Reviewer

Tripadvisor review

“The Lao-Thai dishes are fresh, flavorful, and affordable.”

Lao Larb in Calgary — Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I get Lao larb in Calgary?

Kin Dee Street Kitchen serves Lao larb at 3449 12 St NE in northeast Calgary. Lao restaurants are rare in the city, so this is one of the few places to order it.

What is larb?

Larb (also spelled laab or laap) is the national dish of Laos — minced meat tossed with lime juice, fresh herbs, chilli and toasted rice powder. It is served at room temperature and eaten with sticky rice.

What does toasted rice powder do in larb?

It is the signature ingredient. Dry-toasted, ground rice adds a nutty aroma and a fine crunch that gives larb its distinctive texture and roasted depth.

Is Lao larb spicy?

Traditionally yes. Chilli is central to the dish, but tell us your preferred spice level when you order and our kitchen will adjust it.

Can I order larb for takeout or delivery in Calgary?

Yes. Larb is available for dine-in, takeout, online ordering, delivery and catering. Order it with sticky rice for the traditional pairing.

Where to Find Our Lao Larb in Calgary

Kin Dee Street Kitchen

Lao & Thai street food · Northeast Calgary

Address

3449 12 St NE, Calgary, AB T2E 6S6, Canada
Phone

+1 (587) 349-9768
Opening Hours
- Monday – Thursday11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday – Saturday11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- SundayClosed
Service Options

Dine-in · Takeout · Online ordering · Lunch · Dinner · Catering

Get Directions Order Online

Lao Larb in Calgary