Must-Try Foods In Crab Market (Kep) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Crab Market, Kep, Cambodia

The Crab Market in Kep, Cambodia, is renowned for its fresh seafood, particularly its tender and flavorsome locally-sourced crabs. Historically, the area around Kep has been synonymous with fishing, notably crab fishing, due to its ideal location along the coast. The tradition of catching and selling crabs here dates back generations. Kep itself became a thriving resort town in the early 20th century, frequented by the French and Cambodian elite. During this time, the culinary scene blossomed with a focus on incorporating fresh, local ingredients, especially seafood. The Crab Market today stands as a testament to the town's rich culinary past, where both tourists and locals can enjoy a wide array of dishes made from the fresh catch of the day.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Crab Market, Kep, Cambodia

1. Kep Crab with Kampot Pepper (Non-Veg) - A quintessential Kep dish featuring the succulent meat of fresh crabs infused with the famous Kampot pepper.
2. Grilled Seafood (Non-Veg) - Assortment of freshly grilled seafood such as fish, shrimps, and squid often served with a spicy lime sauce.
3. Amok Fish (Non-Veg) - A traditional Khmer dish with fish covered in thick coconut milk and curry paste, typically steamed in banana leaves.
4. Fried Rice with Seafood (Non-Veg) - Flavorful fried rice mixed with various seafood, vegetables, and sauces, offering a fulfilling meal.
5. Fried Noodles with Seafood (Non-Veg) - Similar to the fried rice but with noodles, cooked with a medley of seafood and seasoned with local spices.
6. Vegetarian Spring Rolls (Veg) - Delicate rolls filled with vegetables and sometimes tofu, served with a sweet chili sauce.
7. Green Mango Salad (Veg) - A zesty salad made from shredded green mango, mixed with onions, peppers, and a tangy dressing.
8. Banh Chao (Non-Veg) - A Cambodian pancake that is sometimes filled with seafood or minced meat, bean sprouts, and served with fresh herbs.
9. Grilled Fish with Lime Sauce (Non-Veg) - Deliciously grilled whole fish topped with a zesty lime and chili sauce.
10. Stir-Fried Morning Glory (Veg) - A popular vegetable dish stir-fried with garlic and chili, enjoyed as a side or a vegetarian main course.

Top Famous Restaurants in Crab Market, Kep, Cambodia

• Kimly Restaurant
  Address: Crab Market, Kep, Cambodia
  Famous Food: Kep Crab with Kampot Pepper (Non-Veg)
• Holy Crab
  Address: Krong Kaeb, Kep, Cambodia
  Famous Food: Grilled Seafood Platter (Non-Veg)
• The Sailing Club
  Address: Kep, Cambodia
  Famous Food: Amok Fish (Non-Veg)
• The Democrat Restaurant
  Address: Crab Market, Krong Kaeb, Kep Province, Cambodia
  Famous Food: Fried Rice with Seafood (Non-Veg)
• Veranda Natural Resort
  Address: Kep Hillside Road, Kep, Cambodia
  Famous Food: Vegetarian Spring Rolls (Veg)
• Magic Crab Restaurant
  Address: Kep Beach next to the Rabbit Island pier, Kep, Cambodia
  Famous Food: Grilled Fish with Lime Sauce (Non-Veg)
• So Kheang Restaurant
  Address: Near the Kep crab statue, Kep, Cambodia
  Famous Food: Fried Noodles with Seafood (Non-Veg)
• Mr Mab Seafood
  Address: Crab Market, Kep, Cambodia
  Famous Food: Banh Chao (Non-Veg)

Note that while the focus in Kep's Crab Market is predominantly on seafood, there are vegetarian options available in many restaurants for those who do not eat meat or seafood.