Must-Try Foods In Wat Ek Phnom (Battambang) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Wat Ek Phnom, Battambang, Cambodia

The ancient temple of Wat Ek Phnom holds a significant place in the cultural and historical landscape of Battambang, Cambodia. While the temple itself, dating back to the 11th century, is an archaeological marvel, the food history of the region around Wat Ek Phnom is equally rich and is reflective of the Cambodian food traditions that have developed over centuries.

Battambang province is known for its fertile land and is considered the rice bowl of Cambodia, contributing to the variety of rice-based dishes in the region. As a result of the surrounding lush landscapes, the local cuisine includes a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Fish from the nearby rivers is also a staple, leading to a variety of fish-based dishes. Traditional Cambodian, or Khmer, cooking techniques and flavors such as prahok (fermented fish paste) and kroeung (a blend of aromatic herbs) are celebrated in this region.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Wat Ek Phnom, Battambang, Cambodia

1. Amok Trey (Non-Veg) - A classic Cambodian curry made with river fish, noni leaves, coconut milk, and a blend of Khmer spices, steamed in banana leaves.
2. Bai Sach Chrouk (Non-Veg) - Grilled pork served over rice, accompanied by pickled vegetables.
3. Nom Banh Chok (Veg option available) - Also known as Khmer noodles, typically served with a fish-based green curry but can be made vegetarian without fish.
4. Lort Cha (Veg option available) - Stir-fried noodles that can be enjoyed with vegetables and eggs for vegetarians or with beef for non-vegetarians.
5. Battambang Oranges (Veg) - Famous sweet oranges from the region, a healthy and refreshing snack.
6. Khmer Red Curry (Non-Veg) - A less spicy curry than its Thai counterpart, made with beef, chicken, or fish, but can also be made vegetarian.
7. Bok L’hong (Veg) - A spicy papaya salad that can be found throughout Cambodia, and often contains shrimp or fish but can be made vegetarian.
8. Chive Cakes (Veg) - Fried cakes made of rice flour, water, and chives, served with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce.
9. Sankhya Lapov (Veg) - A traditional Khmer dessert made with pumpkin and sweet coconut milk custard.
10. Trey Dang Dau (Non-Veg) - Deep-fried fish topped with a tangy and spicy mango salad.

Top Famous Restaurants in Wat Ek Phnom, Battambang, Cambodia

• Jaan Bai Restaurant

  St 2, Battambang, Cambodia

  Famous for: Tofu and Mushroom Amok (Veg)

• La Casa

  Street 3, Battamband

  Famous for: Khmer Red Curry (Non-Veg, Veg option)

• Coconut Lyly

  Prekmohatep, Svaypor, Battambang

  Famous for: Lort Cha (Veg option available)

• Nary Kitchen

  #650 Group 32, Prekmohatep, Svaypor, Battambang

  Famous for: Bai Sach Chrouk (Non-Veg)

• Kinyei Café

  1½, Street 1½, Battambang

  Famous for: Cambodian Iced Coffee (Veg)