Explore the culinary scene of Cambodia - from local favorites to fine dining.
Cambodia captivates visitors with the magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex, French colonial architecture, and pristine tropical beaches. From the bustling capital of Phnom Penh to the serene countryside, Cambodia offers an unforgettable blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality.
Khmer cuisine is one of Southeast Asia's most distinctive culinary traditions, built around freshwater fish from the Tonlé Sap Lake, fragrant herbs like lemongrass and galangal, fermented fish paste (prahok), and coconut milk. Dishes are lighter and less spicy than Thai or Vietnamese food, with complex layered flavors. Fish amok — steamed fish curry in banana leaf — is the national dish, while Kampot pepper is world-famous. French colonial influence persists in excellent baguettes, strong coffee, and café culture.
These iconic dishes define the culinary identity of Cambodia.
Cambodia's national dish — a delicate steamed fish curry made with coconut milk, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal, traditionally cooked in a banana leaf cup. Creamy, aromatic, and uniquely Cambodian.
Wok-fried beef cubes marinated in oyster and soy sauce, served on a bed of lettuce and tomatoes with a Kampot pepper dipping sauce and fried egg on rice. A beloved Cambodian staple influenced by French and Chinese cooking.
Fresh rice noodles topped with a green fish curry sauce and raw vegetables — Cambodia's quintessential morning meal eaten by millions daily. The sauce is made with pounded lemongrass, kaffir lime rind, and freshwater fish.
Live blue swimming crabs from Kep's waters stir-fried with fresh green Kampot pepper, garlic, and butter. The combination of the sweet local crab with the world-famous pepper is considered one of Southeast Asia's great dishes.
A hearty Khmer soup made with prahok (fermented fish paste), green papaya, pork ribs, and fresh herbs. Deeply savory and intensely flavored, this is an authentic local dish rarely found on tourist menus.
100+ restaurants, local recipes, and dining recommendations for Cambodia.
Our handpicked recommendations for the best dining experiences.
Renowned chef Luu Meng's flagship restaurant celebrating 'Living Cambodian Cuisine' with contemporary presentations of traditional dishes. The elegant space features modern Khmer decor and an extensive menu showcasing Cambodia's culinary heritage with seasonal ingredients.
A social enterprise training disadvantaged youth in hospitality skills. Excellent Khmer and international dishes served by enthusiastic trainees in a garden setting. Every meal supports a good cause.
The bustling heart of Siem Reap's dining scene with numerous stalls and casual restaurants offering everything from local street food to international favorites. Lively atmosphere perfect for bar-hopping and people-watching.
Traditional market with numerous food stalls serving authentic local breakfast and lunch. Experience genuine Khmer street food in a bustling market atmosphere with rock-bottom prices.
Cambodia's premier coffee chain serving high-quality locally-grown coffee in modern air-conditioned spaces. Excellent pastries, sandwiches, and free wifi make it popular with digital nomads.
A Michelin-worthy restaurant combining authentic Cambodian flavors with French culinary technique. Chef Joannès Rivière creates innovative set menus that change fortnightly, featuring seasonal produce, edible flowers, and local fruits in non-traditional presentations.
Another fantastic training restaurant operated by Friends International, offering creative Khmer dishes with contemporary twists. The innovative menu includes exotic items like crickets and tarantulas alongside traditional favorites.
A cozy vegetarian cafe serving healthy smoothie bowls, salads, and plant-based Khmer dishes. The relaxed garden setting and excellent coffee make it a popular breakfast and lunch spot.
Find restaurants that match your taste preferences.
The best local flavors at affordable prices.
Freshly grilled corn cobs brushed with seasoned coconut milk and a little salt — a ubiquitous Cambodian street snack sold by roving carts throughout Phnom Penh and Siem Reap evenings.
Deep-fried tarantulas, crickets, silkworms, and water bugs — a genuine local snack eaten throughout Cambodia. Crickets taste like popcorn; tarantulas are crunchy outside and soft inside.
A French-Cambodian hybrid sandwich of crispy baguette filled with pâté, grilled pork, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. Cambodia's $1-2 street food institution influenced by French colonial baking.
Grilled pork marinated in coconut milk and garlic served over broken rice with pickled cucumber and a clear soup — Cambodia's favorite breakfast plate from early morning street grills.
The ground floor of Siem Reap's Old Market houses a lively food court with stalls serving local breakfasts, noodle soups, grilled meats, and fresh tropical fruits at rock-bottom local prices.
Phnom Penh's iconic Art Deco market has a dedicated food section with dozens of vendors selling Cambodian baguettes, fresh fruit, grilled meats, and market breakfasts beloved by local workers.
A row of waterfront crab shacks at Kep Beach where you choose live blue crabs from tanks and have them cooked to order. The freshest and cheapest place to try Cambodia's famous Kep crab with Kampot pepper.
Navigate the local food scene like a pro.
Lunch (11AM-2PM) is when local restaurants are busiest and freshest — ideal time for the best market food
Tipping is not expected at local eateries; $1-2 is appreciated at mid-range tourist restaurants
Inform staff of any serious allergies — prahok (fermented fish paste) is an invisible ingredient in many dishes
Social enterprise restaurants like Friends, Haven, and Romdeng provide excellent food while supporting vulnerable youth
What to expect at different price points.
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