Food History of Royal Palace, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, the residence of the King of Cambodia, not only serves as a representation of the nation but also as a custodian of Cambodian culture, which includes its rich culinary traditions. The Royal Palace itself is not a place where one would go to dine; rather, it's an emblem of regality and heritage influencing the Cambodian culinary landscape. Historically, the cuisine served in the palace would have been of the highest standard, with elaborate presentations and a fusion of flavors showcasing the best of Khmer gastronomy, which has evolved through centuries of cultural exchanges and local traditions.

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

• Amok Trei (Non-Veg): A traditional Cambodian steamed fish curry, seasoned with coconut milk and kroeung, a distinctive Cambodian paste made from lemongrass, galangal, and turmeric.
• Banh Chao (Veg option available): A yellow, pancake-like dish that can be filled with a variety of ingredients, including bean sprouts, chicken, or tofu for vegetarians.
• Num Banh Chok (Veg option available): Known as Khmer noodles, this dish is usually served with a fish-based green curry gravy made from lemongrass, turmeric root, and kaffir lime.
• Kuy Teav (Non-Veg): A noodle soup typically prepared with pork or seafood, topped with condiments like fried garlic, green onion, and bean sprouts.
• Lok Lak (Non-Veg): Stir-fried beef served with salad, rice, and a savory lime and pepper sauce. Vegetarians often substitute beef with tofu.
• Bai Sach Chrouk (Non-Veg): Grilled pork served over steamed rice with pickled vegetables.
• Kralan (Veg): A cake made from sticky rice, beans or peas, grated coconut, and coconut milk, cooked in bamboo tubes.
• Cambodian Green Mango Salad (Veg): A refreshing salad made from shredded green mango, mixed with peppers, onions, and fish sauce.
• Kampot Pepper Crab (Non-Veg): Fresh crab fried and coated with the famous Kampot pepper, showcasing one of Cambodia’s most prized ingredients.
• Khmer Red Curry (Veg option available): Similar to Thai curries but less spicy, often cooked with chicken, beef, or fish, along with eggplant, beans, and potatoes. Vegetarian versions are also common.

Top Famous Restaurants in Royal Palace, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Malis Restaurant

Address: 136 Norodom Blvd, Phnom Penh
Famous Food: Bang Kang River Lobster (Non-Veg)

Romdeng

Address: #74 Street 174, Phnom Penh
Famous Food: Fish Amok (Non-Veg), Tofu Amok (Veg)

The Sugar Palm

Address: #19, Street 240, Phnom Penh
Famous Food: Char Kroeung Sach Ko (Beef with lemongrass and ants) (Non-Veg)

Khmer Saravan

Address: #16Eo, Sothearos Blvd, Phnom Penh
Famous Food: Lok Lak (Non-Veg)

Friends the Restaurant

Address: House 215, Street 13, Phnom Penh
Famous Food: Tapas Style Bites (Veg/Non-Veg options)

Didier Corlou's La Plantation

Address: 10 street 264, Phnom Penh
Famous Food: Pepper Crab (Non-Veg)

Titicaca Fusion Restaurant

Address: #13, Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh
Famous Food: Vegetarian Curry (Veg)

Foreign Correspondents' Club (FCC)

Address: #363 Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh
Famous Food: Asian Fusion dishes (Veg/Non-Veg options)

Elephant Bar

Address: Raffles Hotel Le Royal, Phnom Penh
Famous Food: Cocktails and Small Plates (Veg/Non-Veg options)

Topaz

Address: #162 Preah Norodom Blvd, Phnom Penh
Famous Food: French Gourmet Food (Veg/Non-Veg options)