Convoy Street is about to get a fresh infusion of Southeast Asian flavors with a twist of vine, as Mekong Lao & Thai Cuisine announces a major overhaul that includes launching an all-new natural wine bar and brunch-focused cafe. The restaurant, which has been a fixture in the Convoy area for a decade, is journeying into a bold transition that combines traditional Lao and Thai dishes with a curated selection of natural wines.

According to an interview with Eater San Diego, managing partner Stella Bayphouthongkham is steering the restaurant she took over in 2021 to not just serve its popular Thai boat noodles and khao piek sen, but to also embrace an expanded drinks menu. Mekong Lao & Thai Cuisine is set to readily complement its new dishes with hard kombucha, and more significantly, a variety of natural wines.

As a nod to the rich heritage shared by the two countries along the Mekong river, the restaurant draws inspiration from the life-giving waterway as it expands its culinary repertoire. The restaurant's website proudly states that its chefs are Lao and Thai and are dedicated to bringing authentic flavors from their homeland to the San Diego dining table. Since its opening in March 2015, Mekong has emphasized the importance of using fresh ingredients, a testament to its commitment to quality over convenience.

The expansion into the adjacent space means that Mekong will not just double its current seating capacity. It will also introduce a series of Southeast Asian brunch specials that are certain to draw in the crowds. "We are planning to unveil the expansion by early summer," Bayphouthongkham told Eater. Patrons can expect to dive into dishes such as Lao crispy rice salad, spicy long beans with pork belly, and a Lao take on steak and eggs, including housemade sausage and sticky rice.