Bangkok Golden in Falls Church is no stranger to “best of” lists in the region, but even chef/owner Seng Luangrath says she was surprised by the buzz that erupted when she announced a second location would open in DC. It will be called Thip Khao, which means "sticky rice serving basket." Sticky rice is an important part of any Laotian meal, and Lao food will be the focus at the new restaurant. We snapped Seng at Bangkok Golden, where we chatted with her about Lao cooking.

The national dish of Laos is laab, or “larb,” and it consists of minced meat plus an explosion of fresh herbs like Kaffir lime, lemongrass and galangal (pictured). The secret, though, is toasted rice powder. Other popular dishes include crispy rice salad or “nam khao,” and a curry stew called “orm.” Seng is excited to bring her native cuisine to the District. “With Lao food, so many herbs, spices and flavors come together,” she tells us. “It’s a complex cuisine, hot and spicy, and also pretty healthy.” Thip Khao should open in late fall.