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Thip Khao

8.5Friend Score / 10

#3 of 17 Restaurants in Washington, DC

$$
Known forJames Beard nominatedColumbia HeightsAuthenticSoutheast Asian
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The definitive destination for Lao cuisine in DC, run by chef Seng Luangrath who is widely credited with introducing authentic Lao cooking to the American dining mainstream. The larb, papaya salad, and grilled meats are fiercely flavored and uncompromising in their authenticity. This is not a watered-down version of Southeast Asian food — heat levels are real. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

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Last verifiedJuly 14, 2026

Friend Score

8.5/10
  • Value8.5
  • iconic6.5
  • excellence8.5
  • Crowd level8.0
  • Authenticity9.5
  • Accessibility7.5
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Last reviewed July 14, 2026 by AskTheCity Editorial.