Food History of Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia
When visiting the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, the culinary history unfolds as an integral part of Cambodian culture. Influenced by Thai, Vietnamese, and French flavors, Cambodian cuisine is a unique blend that has evolved over centuries. Food played a significant role during the Angolan Empire, where rice cultivation was the backbone of the economy. Traditional Khmer cooking methods often include steaming, grilling, and stir-frying, and meals would almost always feature a rice or noodle base, with reliance on fresh herbs, spices, and locally-sourced produce. Fish from the Tonle Sap lake was, and still is, an essential protein source. Despite the passing of time, the essence of ancient Khmer cooking still permeates the dishes found in Siem Reap today.
Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia
- Fish Amok - Non-Veg: A classic Khmer dish, fish amok is a flavorful, creamy curry traditionally cooked in banana leaves with a distinctive combination of coconut milk and turmeric.
- Khmer Red Curry - Veg Option Available: Slightly less spicy than its Thai counterpart, Khmer Red Curry can be made with meat or a vegetarian alternative and is filled with an array of vegetables and herbs.
- Green Mango Salad - Veg: This vibrant dish combines shredded unripe mango with peppers, onions, and herbs, offering a refreshing bite with a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
- Bai Sach Chrouk - Non-Veg: Often served for breakfast, this dish features grilled pork slices over rice, accompanied by pickled vegetables.
Join such delicious food destinations by exploring these top restaurants in Siem Reap, each offering a taste of Cambodian hospitality and culinary expertise:
Top Famous Restaurants in Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia
- Haven
Address: Chocolate Road, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Famous Food: Sustainable and ethical choice, Haven serves both non-veg and veg options, including their popular Khmer Tasting Platter.
- Cuisine Wat Damnak
Address: Wat Damnak village, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Famous Food: Set menus featuring locally sourced ingredients, including both non-veg and vegetarian dishes with a modern twist on traditional Khmer flavors.
- Viroth's Restaurant
Address: Street 24, Wat Bo Village, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Famous Food: Renowned for its authentic Khmer dishes, the restaurant offers a refined take on traditional Cambodian cuisine with options for non-veg and veg diners.
- Mahob Khmer Cuisine
Address: #137, Traing Village, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Famous Food: Offering a farm-to-table experience, Mahob Khmer is known for sourcing from local farmers and serves both non-veg and veg traditional dishes.
- The Sugar Palm
Address: Taphul Rd, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Famous Food: Famous for its Royal Khmer cuisine, The Sugar Palm offers a variety of non-veg and veg dishes, such as the popular Amok and Pomelo Salad.
When visiting Siem Reap for the Angkor Wat temples, embrace the local gastronomic journey that is as enriching as the historical exploration. Bon appétit!