Zab Bite - Thai E-Sarn Cuisine

Zab Bite specializes in E-Sarn (Isan) cuisine — the food of Northeastern Thailand, located along the Lao and Cambodian borders. “Isan” refers to the region’s distinct culture and foodways, centered around sticky rice and bold, earthy flavors. Dishes are often served at room temperature and balance salt, spice, and herbs through ingredients like lemongrass, kaffir lime, and fresh greens. Key staples include Laab (minced meat salad), Som Tam (green papaya salad, often made with fermented fish sauce Pla Ra for an extra pungent depth), grilled and salted fish, and fermented Sai Krok Isan sausage. In recent years, Thailand’s Michelin Guide has begun highlighting restaurants from this region — and Zab Bite brings that authentic, heritage-rich experience to Vancouver’s Fraser Street.