I don’t know much about Laos cuisine, I learn something new everyday.
As you can see from the article, there’s a lot of overlap, such as Khao Soi, Khao Niew (sticky rice, more common than Jasmine rice) and Mr. Happy’s Nam Kao Tod. I wouldn’t say Lotus of Siam is Laos food, I think it’s closer to Burmese food and the area around Chiang Mai, but I’m assuming here. Hopefully someone will jump in and give a better answer.
Northern Thai (Chiang Mai) and Burmese food is different, it’s a heavy use of pork, such as the Gang Hung Lay, pork is also a flavoring agent. Their sauces are more rustic, not as spicy and they remind me of Indian spices, like a masala. This is especially true for LoS Nam Prik Ong. This may be the Burmese influence.
Will you like it? I don’t know, I’m going to say it’s an acquired taste, or every Thai restaurant would be doing Northern Thai food. It’s definitely different.
I recommend you go, just because it’s so famous. As a foodie, I’d recommend the Northern Thai menu, just so you can say you had excellent Northern Thai food. Honestly, I only eat the Khao Soi regularly from the Northern menu because the others don’t personally appeal to me. I’d also order something “safe” (please, not their pad thai) so the visit isn’t a complete bust, I recommend their Crispy Duck with Panang and talk to the knowledgable sommelier who has excellent Riesling recommendations for your Thai food (another rare find).
Their new digs is also nice. You can always go up the street and get dessert at Paris Hotel or eat some more at the Grand Bazaar Shops at Bally’s.
