Sao Lao

5013 N Shepherd Dr, Houston - 77018
80 reviews
Thai Laotian
(832) 203-5920

Small homey thao/Laotian eatery that opened about 7 months ago. The staff is very patient and helpful with answering questions. Apparently the chef is Thai/Laotian and wanted to pay homage to her roots. The location is far from the heart of Houston, but the food is worth the drive. Got the Laotian sausage and chicken and veggie dumplings for appetizers and the chicken noodle soup, Thai basil chicken, drunken noodles, and red curry for main dishes. Everything had so much flavor and this was definitely a good serving size for 5 people. My favorite dishes were the dumplings, drunken noodles, and the red curry. The red curry was sooo good with good size chunks of eggplant and chicken. We got medium spice for everything which was a little strong, so I would get the noodles mild next time. The chicken noodle soup tastes like a hearty soup that would be perfect for cold weather or if someone was sick. The other reviews raved about the boat noodles which I would love to come back and try sometime!

Holy moly this food is AMAZING! The owner is also super sweet and hospitable, as well as the rest of the staff. We ordered the Thai curry (some of the best curry I’ve tasted) and the boat noodle soup has a dynamic flavor profile like you couldn’t imagine. Can’t wait to bring my foodie brother to this cute place. Thanks for a great meal!!

Came to Sao Lao for lunch under a friends recommendation and it did not disappoint! Friendly staff and the food was simply wonderful!Every dish was perfectly balanced with the seasoning, the spices and the savoriness. I loved the Papaya Salad as well as the Boat Noodle Soup. I also highly recommend the Thai Red Curry and the Lao Sausage with Sticky rice!

Small clean place with a pay first up at the counter. You can BYOB for a $5 corkage fee. The owner stopped by to chat and she told us she is half Thai/Laos. We ordered the drunken noodles which was full of flavor and we really enjoyed. The red curry was our favorite. The portions were a good size. The tom young soup had large prawns n lots of mushrooms. But it was a bit greasy from the chili oil. When we told the owner she was very accepting of our critique. The mango coconut sticky rice was outstanding. Our server was very sweet. My friend n i said we would both come again or take out. We are happy this restaurant opened in this neighborhood. =) There is plenty of truck parking.

Every dish here at Sao Lao Thai Cafe is marvelous.But in particular, I really like this Lao Chicken noodle soup. I luv anything with a flavourful broth and this is comfort food especially perfect during in cold days.Lao Chicken noodle soup - hand made fresh rice noodles in a 8-hr slow simmered chicken broth, quail eggs, cilantro and green onions.I luv quail eggs and I think this is the 1st time I had quail eggs in a broth and I luv it. OMG!And remember to order its cold Thai tea, it's so smooth & addictive yet refreshing at the same time.

Why the hell didn't someone tell me about this place sooner. The food was EXCELLENT. We will be back!

We noticed this cute and quaint place opened up in the neighborhood and had been meaning to try it. We now have a favorite mainstay for when we want fresh and flavorful Thai. The staff is wonderful and the owner/chef greets you as well and personally thanks you afterwards. But the shining spot of this gem? The food. Good grief is awesome. All of it. Be prepared to sit, eat, and enjoy. Quick service, but totally comfort food. She sells out of the Boat Noodle Soup quick, so try that first!!

Not a big menu and not your typical Thai options (I’m usually a Pad Thai fan) but these Laotian noodles were delicious!! Drunken Noodle — a little spicy and might add more noodles — just me, but taste is great! My husband had never tried Pho before and loved it here. Staff was very attentive and friendly.

We had the boat noodle and it was pretty good. The broth was flavorful but not as thick as I'd like. There was plenty of meat to to enjoy till the last bite and the staff was friendly. I would definitely come back and try another dish If I'm ever in the neighborhood again.

Since I don't eat any kind of meat, - had no chance to try more dishes. But I am a big fan of papaya salad (thai style). That's my first try of Lao kitchen. Unfortunately, - cannot say the same about Lao version of papaya salad (but I am always open to everything new). Your place have good vibe and it's attracting lots of Tesla's :-D. Hopefully you can extend in the future space (like terrace), so will be more comfy. Thnx for a good vibes.