Phnom Penh offers a vibrant food scene where bold flavours, traditional recipes, and modern twists come together. From streetside snacks to riverside fine dining, here are the must-try dishes and where to enjoy them.
1. Fish Amok
Why try: A creamy steamed fish curry served in banana leaves — Cambodia’s national dish.
Highlights: – Rich coconut milk base – Mildly spiced – Often served with jasmine rice
Where to try: Malis Restaurant (Riverside)
Entry: Mains from USD 6–10
2. Lok Lak
Why try: Stir-fried beef cubes with a tangy lime-pepper dip, topped with a fried egg.
Highlights: – Juicy and zesty – Served with rice or fries – Quick and filling meal
Where to try: Khmer Surin
Entry: Mains from USD 5–8
3. Samlor Korkor
Why try: A hearty traditional vegetable stew made with fish, green papaya, and rice.
Highlights: – Often considered more “Cambodian” than amok – Nourishing and balanced – Earthy and flavorful
Where to try: Kravanh Restaurant
Entry: Mains from USD 6–9
4. Nom Banh Chok (Khmer Noodles)
Why try: A popular breakfast dish with cold rice noodles and green fish gravy.
Highlights: – Topped with banana flower and bean sprouts – Light and refreshing – Street food staple
Where to try: Street stalls near Central Market (morning only)
Entry: Around USD 1.5–2.5
5. Bai Sach Chrouk
Why try: Grilled pork served over rice with pickled veggies — a common breakfast classic.
Highlights: – Marinated pork slices – Smoky and sweet – Usually served with broth
Where to try: Street vendors around Wat Phnom
Entry: Around USD 1.5–2
6. Khmer Red Curry
Why try: A milder coconut curry with chicken, eggplant, and bamboo shoots, served with bread.
Highlights: – Less spicy than Thai curry – Creamy and comforting – Great with French baguette
Where to try: Friends the Restaurant
Entry: Mains from USD 6–9
7. Grilled Street Skewers
Why try: Cheap, tasty, and smoky meats or tofu grilled over open flames.
Highlights: – Served with pickles or chilli dip – Beef, chicken, squid options – Popular evening snack
Where to try: Night Market or Russian Market
Entry: USD 0.50–2 per skewer
8. Prahok Ktis
Why try: A funky dip made with fermented fish, minced pork, and coconut milk.
Highlights: – Served with raw veggies – Bold Cambodian flavour – Salty, spicy, and rich
Where to try: Sovanna Restaurant
Entry: Mains from USD 5–8
9. Fried Insects
Why try: A crunchy, high-protein street snack for the adventurous palate.
Highlights: – Crickets, silkworms, tarantulas – Fried with garlic and lime – Surprisingly savoury
Where to try: Stalls along Riverside or O’Russey Market
Entry: USD 1–3 per portion
10. Mango Sticky Rice
Why try: A sweet treat of sticky rice topped with ripe mango and coconut milk.
Highlights: – Cool and creamy – Best during mango season – A light dessert
Where to try: Eleven One Kitchen
Entry: USD 2–4
