Welcome to our Phnom Penh Food Guide, where Cambodia’s capital reveals its flavours one bite at a time. From street stalls sizzling with smoky skewers to elegant riverside restaurants, Phnom Penh’s food scene is a feast of colour, spice, and creativity.
Whether you’re after a quick local lunch, a stylish dinner spot, or a late-night drink, this guide will help you taste the best of the city.
A Taste of Cambodian Cuisine
Cambodian, or Khmer cuisine, balances freshness and flavour — think herbs, rice, and a gentle touch of spice. Some dishes are shared with neighbouring countries, but the local twists make them uniquely Khmer.
Must-try favourites include:
- Fish Amok – a fragrant curry steamed in banana leaves.
- Beef Lok Lak – tender beef cubes with a tangy pepper-lime sauce.
- Nom Banh Chok – traditional rice noodles with green curry sauce, often eaten for breakfast.
- Prahok Ktis – a creamy dip made with fermented fish and coconut milk.
Street Food & Local Eats
Phnom Penh street food is where you’ll find the city’s true heart. Early mornings bring steaming noodle bowls and sweet iced coffee; evenings fill with barbecue smoke and the chatter of locals.
Head to spots like:
- Russian Market (Tuol Tom Poung) – popular for noodles, spring rolls, and local snacks.
- Central Market (Phsar Thmey) – a good mix of food stalls and fresh produce.
- Riverside and Night Market – great for grilled meats, seafood, and fresh fruit shakes.
Street food here is generally safe if you pick busy stalls and freshly cooked dishes — the busier, the better.
Cafés and Coffee Culture
Phnom Penh’s café scene has grown fast, blending international coffee styles with Khmer charm. You’ll find stylish air-conditioned cafés alongside small local shops serving traditional iced Cambodian coffee brewed with condensed milk.
Popular areas include BKK1, Toul Tom Poung, and Riverside, each with plenty of spots to relax, work, or people-watch.
Restaurants and Dining
For something more refined, Phnom Penh offers an impressive range of restaurants — from modern Khmer tasting menus to international favourites.
You’ll find:
- Fine dining – riverside or rooftop restaurants with views of the city.
- Local favourites – family-run eateries serving authentic Khmer home cooking.
- Global options – French, Japanese, Indian, and Italian restaurants are all easy to find.
Drinks and Nightlife
The Phnom Penh food scene flows naturally into its lively nightlife. The city’s bars range from relaxed riverside hangouts to trendy rooftop lounges. Try a local beer like Angkor or Cambodia Lager, or enjoy a cocktail with a sunset view over the Mekong.
Start Exploring
Food is a big part of Phnom Penh’s identity — and one of the easiest ways to connect with local life.
Use our Phnom Penh Food Guide to find ideas for your next meal, whether it’s a 50-cent noodle bowl or a sunset dinner by the river.