Most of the town's eateries seem to be using the same photocopied menu of uninspired noodle and rice dishes. Nang Bot on the main road, next to Vang Vieng guesthouse, is a popular choice with backpackers - which means you have to wait twice as long for average fare - but it's a good place to find out about hiking and caving in the area. Nearby Khamphanh offers better food and service, as well as fresh beer and ice cream. Viengkeo, just beyond the bank on the way to Wat Sisuman, is a friendly family-run establishment, away from the main throng. For an excellent bowl of noodles , try the khào biak sen, served with Lao-style pâté and chicken, at the tiny shop next to the Siripanga guesthouse, near the market; the sign reads "soupe de pâté Lao". If you're in the mood for something different, head for Le Pavot, across the street from the hospital, overlooking the Nam Xong, where you can choose from an extensive selection of French and Italian dishes or specialities such as "stewed fatted pullet with bamboo". A great place for a drink is the Sunset, next to Bungalow Thavonsouk on the riverbank: the Beer Lao is cheap and there's a million-dollar view.