Food In Durian Roundabout

Food History of Durian Roundabout, Kampot, Cambodia

Located in the charming town of Kampot, the Durian Roundabout isn't just an iconic landmark named after the thorny, pungent fruit, but it's also a gateway to a rich culinary tradition. Kampot is renowned for its prized pepper farms which contribute significantly to Cambodian cuisine, infusing dishes with a distinctive flavor that has gained global recognition. The region's fertile soil and climate contribute to a bounty of fresh produce, becoming the backbone of Kampot's gastronomy. The mix of Khmer culinary traditions with French colonial influences has resulted in unique flavor profiles that define Kampot's food scene. Durian, despite its controversial smell, is celebrated here and can be found in various local desserts and snacks.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Durian Roundabout, Kampot, Cambodia

Visitors to Kampot should embark on a culinary journey by trying these top 10 dishes, which showcase the region's rich flavors:

1. Amok Fish (non-veg) - Steamed curried fish coated in a thick coconut milk sauce, wrapped in banana leaves, and often flavored with Kampot pepper.
2. Kampot Pepper Crab (non-veg) - Fresh crabs stir-fried with the famous Kampot pepper, garlic, and sometimes a bit of chilli.
3. Khmer Curry (non-veg) - A less spicy curry compared to its neighbors, made with chicken, beef or fish, and plenty of coconut milk.
4. Loc Lak (non-veg) - Stir-fried beef in a savory brown sauce, usually served with rice and a fried egg on top.
5. Banh Cheav (non-veg) - A Khmer version of the Vietnamese spring roll; these are filled with ground pork, shrimp, and herbs, and dipped in a sweet and sour sauce.
6. Lap Khmer (non-veg) - Lime-marinated Khmer beef salad, flavored with lots of herbs, shallots, garlic, fish sauce, and chilli.
7. Vegetarian Spring Rolls (veg) - Crispy rolls stuffed with vegetables and sometimes glass noodles, served with a sweet chili sauce.
8. Nom Banh Chok (veg) - A traditional Khmer noodle dish usually served with a fish-based green curry gravy but can be made vegetarian upon request.
9. Fried Rice with Kampot Pepper (veg/non-veg) - A fragrant fried rice dish that can be enjoyed with or without meat, with the characteristic addition of Kampot pepper.
10. Tropical Fruit Platters (veg) - Fresh slices of mango, papaya, pineapple, and, of course, durian for the adventurous eater.

Top Famous Restaurants in Durian Roundabout, Kampot, Cambodia

Here are some of the top restaurants in Durian Roundabout, each known for their signature dishes:

1. Rikitikitavi
   Address: Riverside Road, Kampot 07000, Cambodia
   Famous Food: Amok Fish (non-veg)
2. Epic Arts Cafe
   Address: Old Market Street, Kampot 07403, Cambodia
   Famous Food: Vegetarian Spring Rolls (veg)
3. Kampot Kitchen
   Address: Sovansokar St., Kampot, Cambodia
   Famous Food: Kampot Pepper Crab (non-veg)
4. La Java Bleue
   Address: 27, Rue de la poste, Kampot 07000, Cambodia
   Famous Food: Lok Lak (non-veg)
5. Khmer Roots Cafe
   Address: Teuk Chhou Road, Kampot, Cambodia
   Famous Food: Nom Banh Chok (veg)
6. Sisters II Bakery & Cafe
   Address: Sovansokar Street, Kampot, Cambodia
   Famous Food: Fresh Tropical Fruit Platters (veg)
7. Kampot Pie & Ice Cream Palace
   Address: Riverside, near old bridge, Kampot, Cambodia
   Famous Food: Banh Cheav (non-veg)