5 Restaurants In Phnom Penh You HAVE To Try

Good food can be found anywhere in Phnom Penh, especially places hidden in a street corner.

While I highly recommend trying authentic fast food, also known as street food, there is also a large assortment of amazing restaurants in Phnom Penh. Hint: if you see a lot of Cambodians eating there, you know it’s authentic, delicious food!

1. Central Market

As Phnom Penh’s main market, the Central Market is an ideal site to try classic Cambodian gastronomy, with options ranging from the food court to street vendors. Enjoy delicious dishes such as crispy banh chao crepes or grilled pork on rice while observing everyday life in Phnom Penh; a truly immersive experience!

2. Kravanh

Kravanh captures the true flavour of Cambodia in a simple yet elegant approach, serving classic Khmer cuisine in charming, traditional interiors. Its extensive menu features tasty dishes, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients.

3. Eclipse Skybar

Phnom Penh Tower, 23rd Floor, Sangkat, 455 Preah Monivong Blvd (93), Phnom Penh

If you’re looking for dinner and a view, THIS place is my all-time favorite! Not only does it have an amazing 360 view of the sunset and city lights, but the environment is very friendly and easygoing. I had been to other sky bars that are considered fancier or high class, but they do not come close to compare with this awesome restaurant. With large, cushy couches, beautiful string lights above you, and cool music around you, I can’t think of a better night out with friends. My favorite drink is the Sleeping Dragon mocktail, with lime and dragon fruit blended together!

4. Pochentong Restaurant

44-46 Russian Federation Blvd. 110, Phnom Penh

This restaurant is an all-time family favorite for Cambodian locals. It has a wide array of food, ranging from the best dim sum dishes to delicious noodles. It’s close to the airport, so an easy first stop upon your arrival to Phnom Penh. It has great food for cheap prices and a very clean bathroom; trust me, when you’ve been here as long as I have, you come to appreciate rare luxuries such as this. Overall, quick and friendly service with great food!

5. Tonle Bassaac II Restaurant

#534 Preah Monivong Blvd (93), Phnom Penh

A buffet-style restaurant is a MUST-DO in Cambodia. Fresh seafood, a variety of noodles, and BBQ will lure you inside if the word ‘buffet’ hasn’t already. The food presentation comes with beautiful purple flowers, and you can drink several colorful drinks! Not to mention, there is no drinking age in Cambodia. If you eat a lot, locals would agree that this is the best place to eat inexpensively and walk out happy and full.

6. Meatophum Restaurant

Street 360, Phnom Penh

Traditional Khmer food at a reasonable price. What more could you ask for in the heart of Cambodia? Not only do they have an endless number of options, but the hygiene of the restaurant is flawless. This is important because, especially when eating fresh vegetables, tourists should be aware of what they’re eating and how it’s made. With authenticity comes spicy! If you’re a huge spice fan, you should definitely try this place. Of course, seeing as it is a local favorite, most of the workers don’t speak English. However, this pushed me to learn how to order some of my favorite foods in Khmer! It’s such a thrilling and rewarding experience. I’d definitely recommend the curry.

7. Lmut Tum Restaurant

#26 St 606, Phnom Penh 12152

This place is known for having some of the best Amok. Amok is a traditional Cambodian dish with fish inside of a coconut, where you can also enjoy the coconut’s delicious, sweet skin after you finish! The restaurant decor has historical paintings covering the wall and beautiful glass surrounding the exterior. If it’s not too hot out, I would recommend sitting outside and enjoying the beautiful exterior. Above all, great service and not too expensive!

Celine spent six weeks in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia.