Look to your right and you’ll catch the ornamental Pai Lau gateway guarded by large bronze lions at the head of Freedom Plaza. Here, make a beeline for Kaysone Sweets.

Blenders behind the counter mean durian smoothies, and the build-it-yourself shaved ice desserts are a good time, but the hot counter – featuring Laotian snacks including banana fritters and sien savanh (traditional Laos sweet jerky) – is where it’s at. It’s a chance to order a tum mak hoong set too. Go for “B” and your spicy papaya salad will come with sticky rice, sien savanh and Lao sausage for good measure.

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