Cambodia Food Guide 2025: Top Dishes to Try

Cambodia’s cuisine is a hidden gem in Southeast Asia, blending fresh flavours with rich traditions. From savoury curries to tangy soups, this Cambodia Food Guide 2025 will introduce you to the best dishes and where to try them. Whether you’re in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, get ready to eat like a local! Learn more about Cambodian culinary traditions here.

Top Cambodian Dishes in Cambodia Food Guide 2025

1. Fish Amok

Want to try making it yourself? Check out recipes here.

• Cambodia’s national dish: a creamy fish curry steamed in banana leaves with coconut milk, lemongrass, and kaffir lime.
• Where to Try: Friends Restaurant in Phnom Penh (a social enterprise), or Malis in Siem Reap ($5-7).

2. Beef Lok Lak

• Stir-fried beef cubes in a peppery lime sauce, served with rice and a fried egg.
• Where to Try: Street stalls in Siem Reap’s Pub Street ($3-5). Look for bustling spots with locals.

3. Nom Banh Chok (Khmer Noodles)

• Rice noodles topped with fish gravy, fresh herbs, and bean sprouts—perfect for breakfast.
• Where to Try: Local markets like Phsar Chas in Phnom Penh ($1-2).

4. Kuy Teav (Noodle Soup)

• A comforting pork or beef broth with rice noodles, garnished with herbs and chilli.
• Where to Try: Central Market (Phsar Thmei) in Phnom Penh ($2-3).

5. Lap Khmer (Beef Salad)

• Thinly sliced beef marinated with lime, fish sauce, and herbs—a refreshing dish.
• Where to Try: Night markets in Siem Reap, like Angkor Night Market ($3-4).

Street Food Tips for Cambodia in 2025

• Best Markets: Phsar Kandal in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap’s Night Market for grilled skewers, fried insects, and mango sticky rice.
• Safety: Choose busy stalls with high turnover for freshness. Avoid ice in drinks unless it’s from a trusted source. Learn about food safety in Cambodia here
• Budget: Street food costs $1-3 per dish—perfect for budget travellers.
• Cultural Tip: Try fried tarantulas or crickets for a unique experience—just $1 at most markets!

Where to Eat in Cambodia

Phnom Penh

• Romdeng: A social enterprise serving traditional Khmer dishes like fish amok ($6-8).
• Local Markets: Phsar Thmei for kuy teav and fresh smoothies. Explore more dining options here.

Siem Reap

• Cuisine Wat Damnak: Upscale dining with a modern twist on Khmer cuisine ($15-20).
• Pub Street: Affordable eateries with nom banh chok and lok lak.

Practical Tips for Foodies

• Spice Level: Khmer food is less spicy than Thai—add chilli if you like heat.
• Drinks: Try fresh coconut water ($1) or Angkor Beer ($2).
• Visas: Need entry details? Check our Cambodia Visa Guide 2025.
• Explore more with our Things to Do in Cambodia 2025!

Conclusion

This Cambodia Food Guide 2025 is your ticket to savouring Khmer cuisine. From fish amok to street food delights, Cambodia’s flavours will leave you hungry for more. Dive deeper into your trip with our Ultimate Cambodia Travel Guide 2025. What’s your favourite Khmer dish? Share in the comments!