Green Sun Travel

Culinary Delights at 10 Must-Try Cambodian Restaurants Near Me

Cambodia, a land that beckons with the awe-inspiring beauty of Angkor Wat, is a destination that not only captures the heart with its ancient temples but also tantalizes the taste buds with its exquisite cuisine. While Angkor Wat might be the foremost draw, its culinary treasures are an equally mesmerizing facet of this enchanting country. 

In this travel blog,  Green Sun Travel invites you to embark on a gastronomic voyage, one that will lead you through the ancient wonders and modern delights of the vibrant Cambodia restaurants scene. Our journey will include reviews of ten remarkable Cambodian restaurants near me, around Angkor Wat, each offering a unique blend of flavors, signature dishes, and recommendations that will transform your visit into a true epicurean adventure.

Cambodian Restaurants near me: Discovering the Cuisine

Before we delve into the culinary gems of Cambodian restaurants near me, it’s essential to take a moment to explore the intricate tapestry of Cambodian cuisine. Much like the intricate carvings adorning Angkor’s temples, Cambodian food is an intricate blend of history, culture, and geography. This cuisine, deeply influenced by its neighbors like Thailand, Vietnam, and China, has evolved into a distinctive culinary art form, maintaining its own identity amidst a backdrop of international flavors.

Signature Ingredients:

• Rice: Often referred to as “white gold,” rice is the cornerstone of Cambodian meals, accompanying nearly every dish.
• Fish: Freshwater fish, especially those sourced from the fertile Tonle Sap Lake, are integral to Cambodian cuisine. The iconic “Fish Amok” is a testament to this tradition.
• Herbs and Spices: Fragrant herbs like lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves, along with spices such as star anise and cardamom, add depth and aroma to Cambodian dishes.
• Palm Sugar: This natural sweetener imparts a subtle sweetness to many Cambodian delicacies.
• Prahok: A pungent fermented fish paste, prahok, forms the basis for many of Cambodia’s flavorful sauces.

Regional Diversity:

Cambodia’s culinary diversity mirrors its geography:

• Khmer Cuisine: The heart of Cambodian gastronomy, characterized by a delicate balance of sweet, salty, sour, and bitter flavors. Dishes like Fish Amok and Beef Lok Lak epitomize Khmer culinary artistry.
• Kampot: Renowned for its exquisite Kampot pepper, this region boasts fiery and flavorful dishes like “Kep Crab.”
• Siem Reap: Serving as the gateway to Angkor Wat, this city blends Khmer traditions with international influences, offering a modern twist to classic dishes.

Street Food Culture:

While our journey will lead us to fantastic restaurants, do not forget to explore Cambodia’s vibrant street food culture. From crispy fried insects to refreshing fruit shakes, the bustling streets of Cambodia promise a treasure trove of culinary delights.

Cambodian restaurants near me: Top 10 Must-try 

Now that we have unveiled the tantalizing intricacies of Cambodian cuisine, let’s proceed with our restaurant recommendations, highlighting signature dishes, offering personal recommendations, and providing insights into price ranges. This voyage promises to satisfy your wanderlust for both ancient marvels and epicurean wonders.

Cuisine Wat Damnak:

Located in Siem Reap, this Michelin-starred restaurant is a culinary haven. Chef Joannes Riviere creates innovative dishes using traditional Cambodian ingredients. The tasting menu is a journey through the country’s diverse flavors, and every dish is a work of art.

Signature Dish: The “Menu Découverte” tasting menu, featuring innovative Cambodian dishes.

Recommendation: Try the Kampot pepper crab or the pork belly with tamarind.

Price Range: High-end (USD 50-100 per person)

Marum:

Marum, part of the Friends International organization, serves up not only delicious food but also a social mission. The restaurant offers a variety of Khmer and international dishes, with a focus on using locally sourced, sustainable ingredients.

• Signature Dish: Red Tree Ants Stir-Fry, a unique Khmer delicacy.
• Recommendation: Enjoy the Fish Amok or the beef lok lak.
• Price Range: Mid-range (USD 15-30 per person)

Chanrey Tree:

For an authentic Khmer dining experience, look no further than Chanrey Tree for Cambodian restaurants near me. Set in a traditional wooden house in Siem Reap, this restaurant offers a menu brimming with Cambodian classics. Try the Fish Amok, a creamy coconut fish curry served in a banana leaf.

• Signature Dish: Fish Amok, a creamy coconut fish curry.
• Recommendation: Savor the Lok Lak beef and the prawn curry.
• Price Range: Mid-range (USD 20-40 per person)

Malis:

Malis is a Khmer fine dining restaurant in Siem Reap. The ambiance is elegant, and the menu features a range of Cambodian dishes crafted with a modern twist. Their rice paper rolls and mango salad are particularly delightful.

• Signature Dish: Malis Signature Rice Paper Rolls.
• Recommendation: Don’t miss the Mango Salad and the Kroeung-marinated grilled fish.
• Price Range: High-end (USD 30-60 per person)

Haven:

Another social enterprise, Haven, offers a menu that blends Khmer flavors with international influences. The restaurant provides vocational training and employment opportunities for young women in need. The creative menu includes items like the Haven Burger and Khmer tacos.

• Signature Dish: Haven Burger, a unique fusion creation.
• Recommendation: Try the Khmer Tacos and Pumpkin Soup.
• Price Range: Mid-range (USD 15-30 per person)

Cuisine de Saison:

This cozy restaurant in Siem Reap is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The chef, Pola Siv, creates seasonal menus that showcase Cambodia’s culinary heritage. Don’t miss their famous Khmer curry and crispy morning glory.

• Signature Dish: Khmer Curry, a flavorful Cambodian classic.
• Recommendation: Savor the Crispy Morning Glory and the Fresh Spring Rolls.
• Price Range: Mid-range (USD 20-40 per person)

The Square 24 Restaurant:

Situated just a stone’s throw away from Angkor Wat, The Square 24 offers a mix of Cambodian and international dishes. The sunset view from the terrace is spectacular, making it a great spot to unwind after a day of temple exploration.

• Signature Dish: Angkor Wat View Sunset Dinner.
• Recommendation: Enjoy their Khmer Curry and Grilled Seafood.
• Price Range: Mid-range (USD 20-40 per person)

Mahob Khmer Cuisine:

Mahob Khmer Cuisine takes you on a culinary journey through Cambodia with its tasting menu. Each course is a celebration of Cambodian flavors, and the setting is charmingly traditional, complete with rice field views.

• Signature Dish: The Mahob Tasting Menu, a seasonal delight.
• Recommendation: Try the Beef Samlor Kork and the Grilled Fish with Turmeric.
• Price Range: High-end (USD 30-60 per person)

Khmer Grill:

For a more casual dining experience, Khmer Grill in Siem Reap is a popular choice. They serve a variety of Khmer BBQ dishes, including skewered meats and vegetables that you can grill at your table. It’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy local flavors.

• Signature Dish: DIY BBQ Skewers at your table.
• Recommendation: Choose from the Skewered Meats and Fresh Vegetables.
• Price Range: Budget-friendly (USD 10-20 per person)

Angkor Palm Restaurant:

The final one on our trial at 10 Cambodian restaurants near me, Angkor Palm offers a diverse menu of Khmer and international dishes. Their fish curry and stir-fried morning glory are highly recommended. The restaurant’s tranquil garden setting adds to the overall dining experience.

• Signature Dish: Traditional Fish Curry.
• Recommendation: Try the Stir-fried Morning Glory and the Cambodian Red Curry.
• Price Range: Mid-range (USD 15-30 per person)

Conclusion: A Culinary Odyssey

As you explore the splendors of Angkor Wat, remember that Cambodia’s charms extend far beyond its iconic temples. The Cambodian restaurants near me i have explored on this culinary odyssey have not only enriched our palates but also woven a deeper connection to the culture and heritage of this extraordinary land.

From the innovative creations at Cuisine Wat Damnak to the street-side stalls serving up the bold flavors of Siem Reap, each dining experience has been a chapter in the story of Cambodia’s culinary evolution. So, whether you’re savoring a bowl of aromatic Khmer curry or dining beneath the stars with Angkor Wat as your backdrop, these restaurants offer a taste of Cambodia’s heart and soul.

As your journey unfolds, remember that while Angkor Wat may steal the spotlight, the country’s vibrant cuisine shines just as brilliantly, waiting to be discovered one delectable dish at a time. We hope this guide inspires you to savor the diverse flavors of Cambodia and, like us, fall in love with this land of wonders, both ancient and epicurean. Bon appétit, and may your travels be filled with unforgettable experiences!