You have not fully experienced good southeast Asian food until you have visited Sap Sap Lao Deli & Café. This family-owned business serves authentic Lao cuisine, in family-style platters. Sap Sap Deli provides the most delicious assortment of Laotian food and will leave you longing to return. Sap Sap Deli is tucked in an alley in White Center (the southeast end of west Seattle). Unless you were searching for it, it would be difficult to run into or find by chance. When you enter Sap Sap Deli, the many TV’s which play a medley of 80’s music do not go unnoticed. The charming interior makes Sap Sap Deli unique for its homey atmosphere. The business was started by Vixai Nackviseth, and with the support from his head-chef wife, they opened the restaurant in June 2023. Before opening, they participated in pop-ups at local markets. Even with a permanent location, their participation continues, with their most recent appearance being at Bite of Seattle 2025.

Lao cuisine is spicier, and sour compared to other southeast Asian cuisines. The food features many fresh herbs and fermented ingredients. Sap Sap Deli aims to share authentic Lao cuisine in Seattle and this goal shines strongly. 

I frequently visit Sap Sap Deli not only for the amazing food, but also for the top-tier service where every customer is treated like a regular. During my most memorable visit, the bartender insisted on me trying the iced green tea, he even went as far to remove it from the bill. However, as a small business, it is common for them to run low on food and seating. Remember, good food takes time! I would advise calling ahead and ensuring there are open tables and food remaining.

Sap Sap Deli keeps a focused menu to highlight a few dishes. Of the 10 dishes on the menu, my top 3 are → 

Nam Khao

Naem khao is my personal favorite and a must-try. It is a crispy rice salad with small pieces of fermented pork and fresh herbs. The fermented pork adds sour saltiness to the dish. The beef can be eaten with lettuce, but it is just as good alone.

Lemon Grass Beef Skewers 

The Lemon grass beef skewers come in a plate of three. The beef is cut into thin slices and grilled on wooden skewers. The crunchy edges and juiciness of the beef enhance the subtle lemongrass flavor. I recommend this with a little bit of sticky rice and chili oil.

Mango Sticky Rice 

I always end my meal with their mango sticky rice. The cold fresh-cut mango perfectly contrasts with the warm sticky rice. The rice is cooked with coconut milk and sugar, to make it creamy and smooth. The whole dish is topped with black sesame seeds. This is the perfect sweet treat to end an already perfect meal. 

Additional sides

 Thai iced tea, I LOVE to enjoy my meal with this drink, and if you also have a sweet tooth, you will too. If you go with adults, the BeerLao is supposedly amazing. 

Despite the drive, Sap Sap Lao Deli & Cafe is the best Laotian food in town and truly a hidden gem. I am tempted to gatekeep, but it is too good not to share. Enjoy!