Siem Reap is not only the gateway to Angkor Wat but also a haven for food lovers. From traditional Khmer dishes to buzzing night markets, this town serves authentic flavours with a side of culture. Here’s what you absolutely must try.
1. Fish Amok
Why try: Cambodia’s national dish—creamy, fragrant, and cooked in banana leaf bowls.
Highlights: – Made with coconut milk and curry paste – Often served with jasmine rice – Mild and flavourful
Where to try: Khmer Kitchen Restaurant
Entry: Mains from USD 4–6
2. Lok Lak
Why try: A juicy beef stir-fry served with pepper-lime dip and a fried egg on top.
Highlights: – Quick and hearty – Signature Cambodian black pepper sauce – Can also be made with chicken
Where to try: Chanrey Tree
Entry: Mains from USD 5–7
3. Khmer Red Curry
Why try: A milder curry made with coconut milk, eggplant, and tender meat, often served with baguette.
Highlights: – Less spicy than Thai curries – Great for lunch or dinner – Rich yet comforting
Where to try: Sugar Palm Restaurant
Entry: Mains from USD 6–8
4. Nom Banh Chok (Khmer Noodles)
Why try: A popular breakfast made with rice noodles and a fresh green fish-based gravy.
Highlights: – Topped with bean sprouts and banana flower – Light and herbal – A street food favourite
Where to try: Local street vendors or Old Market
Entry: Around USD 1.5–3
5. Prahok Ktis
Why try: A funky, flavour-packed minced pork dip made with fermented fish and coconut milk.
Highlights: – Served with raw vegetables – Salty, spicy, and addictive – True taste of Cambodian countryside
Where to try: Malis Restaurant
Entry: Around USD 7–9
6. Cambodian BBQ
Why try: DIY grill at your table with beef, chicken, crocodile, or fish over a hot charcoal plate.
Highlights: – Interactive dining – Variety of meats and dipping sauces – Fun group experience
Where to try: Cambodian BBQ Restaurant on Pub Street
Entry: Platters from USD 8–15
7. Grilled Street Skewers
Why try: A cheap and tasty way to snack like a local, especially in the evening markets.
Highlights: – Beef, chicken, squid, or tofu options – Smoky flavour – Often paired with pickles or rice
Where to try: Angkor Night Market or Road 60
Entry: USD 0.50–2 per skewer
8. Fried Insects & Bugs
Why try: For the adventurous foodie, Cambodia offers crickets, tarantulas, and more as crunchy snacks.
Highlights: – High protein – Deep-fried with garlic and lime – Surprisingly tasty (really!)
Where to try: Pub Street stalls or Night Market
Entry: USD 1–3 per portion
9. Sweet Sticky Rice with Mango
Why try: A refreshing and sweet ending to any meal, especially during mango season.
Highlights: – Coconut-infused sticky rice – Ripe mango slices – Light and satisfying
Where to try: Blue Pumpkin or street carts
Entry: USD 2–3
10. Siem Reap’s Local Beer & Craft Scene
Why try: Cambodian beer pairs perfectly with local food, and craft brews are on the rise.
Highlights: – Angkor Beer is the national staple – Local brews like Kingdom or Riel – Many beer gardens and breweries
Where to try: The Local Brewpub or Sombai Lounge
Entry: Pints from USD 1–3
