Must-Try Foods In Central Market (Phsar Thmey) (Phnom Penh) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Central Market (Phsar Thmey), Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Located in the heart of Phnom Penh, the Central Market, also known as Phsar Thmey, is a historical landmark built in 1937 during the French colonial period. The market is known for its Art Deco style dome and four extending wings full of shops. While it might be most famous for its yellow-painted central dome and a wide array of goods like clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs, the market is also a focal point for food culture in Cambodia.

Over the years, Central Market has become a gathering spot for local vendors to sell traditional Khmer food, offering an authentic taste of Cambodia. It is not only a place for shopping but also a social hub where locals and tourists can indulge in a variety of fresh and flavorful dishes. From street food stands to small eateries, the market is buzzing with the aroma of spices and the hustle of everyday life.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Central Market Phnom Penh

1. Amok (Non-Veg) - A traditional Khmer curry made with fish, coconut milk, and a mix of turmeric, lemongrass, and kaffir lime.
2. Nom Banh Chok (Non-Veg) - Also known as Khmer noodles, served with a fish-based green curry gravy topped with fresh vegetables.
3. Bai Sach Chrouk (Non-Veg) - Grilled pork served with rice, often accompanied by pickled vegetables and a bowl of chicken broth.
4. Lort Cha (Non-Veg) - Stir-fried short rice noodles with bean sprouts, green onions, and egg, usually served with beef or chicken.
5. Kuy Teav (Non-Veg) - A flavorful pork or chicken broth soup with rice noodles, topped with fried garlic, green onions, and bean sprouts.
6. Kralan (Veg) - Bamboo sticky rice with beans or peas, which is cooked in bamboo tubes and seasoned with a little salt.
7. Khmer Red Curry (Non-Veg) - Similar to Thai red curry but less spicy, it is made with chicken, beef, or fish, eggplant, green beans, potatoes, fresh coconut milk, lemongrass, and kroeung (a type of Khmer herb paste).
8. Samlor Machu (Non-Veg) - Khmer sweet and sour soup with fish, tomatoes, pineapples, and sometimes with fresh local greens.
9. Cheik Chien (Veg) - Sweet, deep-fried banana fritters, a common and popular snack throughout Cambodia.
10. Num Anksom (Veg) - A traditional Khmer cake made from sticky rice filled with banana or beans and wrapped in banana leaves.

Top Famous Restaurants in Central Market Phnom Penh

Daughters of Cambodia Visitor Centre Café

Address: 65Eo, Preah Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh

Famous Food: Chicken Amok (Non-Veg)

Feel Good Café

Address: 79, Street 136, Phsar Kandal I, Daun Penh, Phnom Penh

Famous Food: Vegetarian and Vegan options available

Phsar Thmey Food Stalls

Address: Inside Central Market, Phnom Penh

Famous Food: A variety of traditional snacks and meals, with both Veg and Non-Veg options

Limoncello Pizzeria & Restaurant

Address: 13, Street 130, Phnom Penh

Famous Food: Italian cuisines with Vegetarian options available

Romdeng

Address: 74 Street 174, Phnom Penh

Famous Food: Fish Amok (Non-Veg)