Food In Kampot River

Food History of Kampot River, Kampot, Cambodia

Kampot, a charming town in southern Cambodia, is renowned not just for its picturesque landscapes and colonial architecture, but also for its unique culinary scene. Historically, the food in Kampot has been influenced by a variety of cultures, including Khmer, Chinese, and French. The fertile region around the Kampot River is famous for its pepper plantations, which produce the world-famous Kampot pepper, a key ingredient used in both local and international cuisines.

The riverside setting has also meant that seafood is a staple in the local diet, with many dishes incorporating fresh catches from the river and nearby sea. Rice, due to the extensive paddies in the area, is another basic component of meals. The traditional Khmer cuisine, with its mix of flavors and spices, along with the emphasis on freshness, defines the essence of Kampot's food heritage.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Kampot, Cambodia

1. Amok (Non-Veg) - A classic Khmer dish typically made with fish steamed in a banana leaf with a rich coconut milk curry.
2. Banh Cheav (Veg/Non-Veg) - A Khmer-style crepe that can be filled with shrimp or tofu and sprouts, then rolled and eaten with a tangy dipping sauce.
3. Kdam Chaa (Non-Veg) - Fried crab, often flavored with the renowned Kampot pepper, offering a perfect blend of seafood freshness and spice.
4. Lok Lak (Non-Veg) - Stir-fried beef or chicken served with a flavorful pepper sauce and often accompanied by a fried egg.
5. Nom Banh Chok (Veg/Non-Veg) - Also known as Khmer noodles, this dish is usually served with a fish-based green curry gravy, but vegetarian options are available.
6. Morning Glory (Veg) - Stir-fried water spinach, a popular and nutritious vegetable dish, which can be flavored with garlic, soy sauce, and chili.
7. Khmer Curry (Veg/Non-Veg) - Similar to Thai curries but less spicy, it can be prepared with chicken, fish, or just vegetables for a hearty, aromatic meal.
8. Fresh Spring Rolls (Veg/Non-Veg) - Light and healthy rolls filled with vegetables, herbs, sometimes shrimp or pork, and served with a zesty dipping sauce.
9. Sticky Rice with Mango (Veg) - A popular dessert made with sweet, sticky rice topped with ripe mango and coconut cream.
10. Grilled Fish (Non-Veg) - Fresh fish from the river, grilled to perfection and typically served with a spicy lime sauce.

Top Restaurants in Kampot, Cambodia

1. Epic Arts Cafe
   Old Market Street, Krong Kampot

   Famous food: Fresh Spring Rolls (Veg)

2. Rikitikitavi
   Riverside Road, Krong Kampot

   Famous food: Amok (Non-Veg)

3. Kampot Kitchen
   Kampot Riverfront, Krong Kampot

   Famous food: Kdam Chaa (Non-Veg)

4. Kep Coffee
   719, Sovansakor, Krong Kampot

   Famous food: Banana Flower Salad (Veg)

5. The GreenHouse
   Tuek Chhu Road, Krong Kampot

   Famous food: Veggie Burger (Veg)

6. Mea Culpa Kampot
   44 Sovansakor Village, Krong Kampot

   Famous food: Kampot Pepper Pizza (Veg/Non-Veg options)

7. Veggie Market
   Street 724, Krong Kampot

   Famous food: Vegan Lok Lak (Veg)

8. Simple Things
   Street 726, Krong Kampot

   Famous food: Vegetarian Sandwiches (Veg)

9. Bokor Mountain Lodge
   Riverside Road, Krong Kampot

   Famous food: Grilled Pork Ribs (Non-Veg)

10. La Java Bleue
    32, Rue de France, Krong Kampot

    Famous food: Seafood Platter (Non-Veg)