Food In Phnom Penh

Food History of Phnom Penh, Cambodia

The cuisine of Phnom Penh is a fusion of flavors from various influences due to the history of Cambodia. Once a part of the French colony of Indochina, French culinary techniques and bread such as the baguette were introduced. Khmer cuisine is also influenced by neighboring countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and China, which is evident in the use of spices, noodles, and stir-fry techniques. Traditional dishes often feature rice and freshwater fish from the Mekong River and Tonle Sap, along with a variety of herbs, fruits, and vegetables. Phnom Penh, being the capital city, is a melting pot where these diverse culinary traditions converge.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

1. Amok - This classic Cambodian dish is a fish curry steamed in banana leaves and often served with rice. It's delicately flavored with coconut milk and a special Khmer curry paste. (non-veg)
2. Bai Sach Chrouk - A popular breakfast dish consisting of marinated, grilled pork served on a bed of rice, often accompanied by pickled vegetables. (non-veg)
3. Nom Banh Chok: Khmer Noodles - A traditional Cambodian breakfast, it includes rice noodles topped with a fish-based green curry gravy made with lemongrass and turmeric. (non-veg)
4. Lok Lak - Stir-fried marinated beef or chicken (can request for chicken in place of beef) served with sliced onion, pepper, and a lime-garlic sauce for dipping. The meat is usually accompanied by rice and sometimes a fried egg on top. (non-veg)
5. Kuy Teav - A noodle soup that consists of pork or chicken stock with toppings like minced pork, shrimp, and garnishes. (non-veg)
6. Banh Xeo - A Vietnamese-style crispy pancake filled with shrimp, bean sprouts, and herbs. Request to hold the shrimp for a vegetarian version. (non-veg)
7. Sach Ko Ang - Skewered beef grilled over charcoal, often served with a spicy dipping sauce and salads or pickled vegetables. (non-veg)
8. Mango Salad - A refreshing salad made with unripe mango, tossed in a dressing of fish sauce, lime, and sugar, and finished with peanuts and basil. (veg with fish sauce)
9. Fried Spring Rolls - Crispy rolls stuffed with vegetables and sometimes meat. Vegetarian versions are usually available. (veg and non-veg versions)
10. Fresh Spring Rolls - These rolls are filled with vermicelli noodles, vegetables, and herbs (and sometimes meat) wrapped in rice paper. (veg and non-veg versions)

Top Famous Restaurants in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Malis Cambodian Restaurant

136 Preah Norodom Blvd, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Famous Food: Fish Amok (non-veg)

Romdeng

74 Street 174, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Famous Food: Tiger Prawn Curry (non-veg)

Friends the Restaurant

#215 Street 13, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Famous Food: Tapas-Style Plates (veg and non-veg)

The Vegetarian

#158, Street 19, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Famous Food: Vegetarian Dishes (veg)

Feel Good Café & Coffee Roasters

#79, Street 136, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Famous Food: Western and Asian cuisine with vegetarian and vegan options (veg and non-veg)

Touk Restaurant & Bar

Corner of Sisowath Quay and Street 130, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Famous Food: Khmer and Western Cuisine (veg and non-veg)

Khmer Surin

#9 Street 57, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Famous Food: Khmer Cuisine, Beef Salad (Request for a chicken substitute) (non-veg)

DID - Dine in the Dark

#126 Preah Ang Makhak Vann, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Famous Food: A complete dining experience in the dark (varied menu, veg and non-veg)

Daughters of Cambodia Visitor Centre Café

#65 Street 178, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Famous Food: Western and Khmer snacks and meals (veg and non-veg)

Kabbas Restaurant

#13 Street 51, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Famous Food: Local Cambodian Dishes (veg and non-veg)