The traditional way of eating a meal in Laos is to share food communally among family and friends. Diners typically order a number of dishes along with a big bamboo basket of sticky rice. Dishes rarely appear at the same time, so don't expect Western-style service where everyone's food comes out together. Most locals use their right hand to eat sticky rice, but using a fork and spoon combination is also acceptable. Chopsticks are served with bowls of noodles.