A Taste of Khmer Cuisine: Top Restaurants in Cambodia

Embarking on a culinary adventure through Cambodia is like diving into a rich tapestry of flavors and traditions, where every dish tells a story of the country’s vibrant culture and history. From the bustling streets of Phnom Penh to the serene landscapes of Siem Reap, Cambodia food offers a diverse palette of dining experiences that cater to every taste and occasion. Whether you’re craving the bold spices of traditional food in Cambodia, like Khmer curry, or the subtle sophistication of French-inspired cuisine, the best restaurants in Cambodia are ready to welcome you with open arms and tantalizing menus.

And here’s a pro tip for the savvy traveler: don’t forget to pay with Visa. Not only is Visa widely accepted across the Cambodia dining scene, making it incredibly convenient for those unforgettable dining experiences, but it also unlocks exclusive offers at selected restaurants.

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Must-Try Restaurants in Cambodia

Embark on a culinary adventure across the best restaurants in Cambodia, where a diverse array of must-try restaurants awaits, from authentic Khmer flavors, to Indian cuisine, to French delights. What’s more, all these Cambodia food culture havens accept Visa, which you can use to unlock exclusive merchant offers and benefits, adding extra value to your gastronomic journey.

1. Malis

Malis Phnom Penh location: Phnom, 136 Norodom Blvd, Penh 12301
Malis Siem Reap location: Pokambor Ave, Krong Siem Reap 12131

With two locations, one in the heart of Cambodia’s bustling capital, Phnom Penh, and the historic wonder of Siem Reap, Malis stands as a beacon of culinary excellence. This restaurant is renowned for its commitment to reviving traditional recipes and using fresh, local ingredients. Guests can indulge in a serene setting that blends contemporary elegance with cultural heritage. From the delicate balance of spices in its signature dishes to the peaceful ambiance, Malis provides a celebration of Cambodia’s culinary legacy.

Guests who opt to pay with Visa at this fantastic restaurant will be treated to a complimentary set menu.

2. Amigos Brazilian Steak House

Location: 249CEo, Preah Trasak Paem St. (63), Phnom Penh 12302

Amigos Brazilian Steak House in Phnom Penh is a vibrant spot that promises a culinary adventure straight from the heart of Brazil. Diners are greeted by an atmosphere that’s as lively and colorful as the streets of Rio. This restaurant specializes in the traditional churrasco experience, offering an endless parade of succulent, fire-grilled meats served at your table by skilled passadores. The lively vibe, coupled with an extensive selection of sides and salads, ensures a dining experience you won’t forget.

Diners who make a Visa credit card payment at Amigos Brazilian Steak House can enjoy 15% off dinner and 10% off lunch.

3. Viva Fine Mexican and Khmer Cuisine

Location: 23 Street 11, Krong Siem Reap

Viva Fine Mexican and Khmer Cuisine in Siem Reap offers a unique culinary fusion that tantalizes the taste buds. This cozy eatery marries the vibrant flavors of Mexico with Cambodia’s rich gastronomic heritage, creating a menu that’s bursting with creativity and taste. From spicy tacos and enchiladas to aromatic curries, every dish is a testament to the art of blending culinary traditions. This restaurant is a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking a memorable dining experience in the heart of Siem Reap.

By using your Visa credit card at this establishment for a minimum spend of $20, you can get 5% off food and beverages.

4. Easy Speaking

Location: Street 08, Krong Siem Reap

Easy Speaking, nestled in the vibrant heart of Siem Reap’s Pub Street, describes itself as a cafe, pub, and restaurant all rolled into one. This hip spot offers a diverse menu that caters to a range of tastes with Cambodian, Thai, and Western options–from hearty burgers and pizzas to traditional Khmer dishes. With its moderate pricing, Easy Speaking is an ideal place to immerse yourself in the local scene, enjoy a vast array of flavors, and sip on a drink.

If you pay with Visa for a bill over $30, then you can take advantage of 5% off food and beverages.

5. Monsoon

Location: #53-55E, Street 130, Sangkat Phsar Kandal 1, Phnom Penh

Monsoon restaurant, nestled within the Monsoon Riverside Hotel in Phnom Penh, offers a culinary retreat with its specialty in international cuisine. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it provides a diverse menu that caters to global tastes, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The restaurant also features a bar where guests can unwind with a drink, making it a perfect spot for both dining and relaxation amidst the bustling city life.

Making a Visa credit card payment over $30 at this establishment will allow you to save 5% on food and beverages.

6. Flavors of India

Location: Street 63 house No 158, Phnom Penh

Flavors of India in Phnom Penh is a culinary haven for those craving the authentic tastes of Indian cuisine. This vibrant restaurant brings to the table a rich palette of spices and dishes that embody the diverse culinary traditions of India, from aromatic curries to freshly baked naan and flavorful biryanis. Flavors of India is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in the true essence of Indian dining in the heart of Phnom Penh.

Visa has a very generous offer for those dining at this restaurant: simply spend at least 10% to enjoy 15% off food and beverages.

7. Curry King

Location: 3C, Corner Street 515 and 289, Sanghat, Phnom Penh

Curry King in Phnom Penh stands out as another sanctuary for spice lovers and those passionate about authentic Indian cuisine. This restaurant prides itself on serving up a storm of traditional Indian dishes, where each curry is a masterpiece of flavor, simmered to perfection with a blend of exotic spices. From velvety butter chicken to robust lamb rogan josh, the menu is a vibrant showcase of India’s culinary diversity.

If you spend at least $10 at Curry King and pay your bill with Visa, you will be treated to a complimentary cocktail or mocktail of the day.

8. Pho Sovanphum

Location: #5E0, Street 178, Phnom Penh

Pho Sovanphum in Phnom Penh offers a delightful escape into the world of traditional Vietnamese cuisine, right by the scenic riverside. Located within the Sovanphum Guesthouse, this charming restaurant is a gem for pho enthusiasts, serving up steaming bowls of this beloved noodle soup at reasonable prices. The authentic flavors, aromatic broth, and perfectly cooked noodles capture the essence of Vietnam’s culinary art.

If you make a Visa credit card payment at Pho Sovanphum, you will be rewarded with 10% off all food and beverages.

9. Siem Reap City Lounge & Cafe

Location: Street No. 07(Pub Street), City Center, Sangkat Mondol II, Siem Reap

Siem Reap City Lounge & Cafe, located within the stylish Siem Reap City Angkor Boutique, stands out as a remarkable fusion of a Khmer art gallery and a gourmet restaurant. The lounge emphasizes not just traditional Cambodian dishes but the art of sourcing local, seasonal produce. Signature dishes like Amok Fish, Brahok Dip, and the exclusive Macho Kroeng fish from the Mekong River and Tonle Sap Lake, are presented with creative flair and innovative garnishes.

Pay with your Visa credit card here on a minimum bill of $15 to take advantage of $2 off on food and beverages.

10. The Hideout Barista & Lounge

Location: 17252 Central Market St, Krong Siem Reap, Siem Reap

The Hideout Barista & Lounge in Siem Reap is your ultimate retreat, blending the warmth of a local cafe with the vibrancy of a lounge. From the early hours, this establishment welcomes quests with the rich aroma of fresh coffee and a selection of breakfast delights. It then transitions into a hub of culinary diversity with a wide array of food options by afternoon and transforms into a cozy spot for scrumptious drinks by evening.

Diners who use their Visa card at this must-visit restaurant will get to save 10% on all food and beverages.

11. Cuisine Wat Damnak

Phnom Penh location: 29 Samdech Mongkol Iem St. (228), Phnom Penh
Siem Reap location: Wat Damnak village, Sala Kamreuk Commune, Siem Reap

With a location in both Phnom Phen and Siem Reap, Cuisine is a culinary gem that redefines Cambodian dining with an innovative twist. Spearheaded by the visionary Chef Joannès Rivière, the restaurant takes guests on a flavorful journey through meticulously crafted menus that showcase the freshest local ingredients and traditional flavors in a contemporary style. Cuisine Wat Damnak offers an intimate and elegant dining experience, making it a must-visit for those seeking to explore the depth and diversity of Cambodian cuisine in a sophisticated setting.

12. Topaz Restaurant

Location: 162 Preah Norodom Blvd, Phnom Penh

For over two decades, Topaz Restaurant has stood as a pillar of French fine dining in Phnom Penh, blending time-honored culinary traditions with avant-garde gastronomy in a chic, modern environment. It mirrors the lively spirit and rich culture of the capital city it resides in, presenting a dining experience where personally selected ingredients, dedication to service, and pride in culinary excellence converge. It is a celebrated destination for those seeking both tradition and innovation in the heart of Phnom Penh.

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Traditional Food in Cambodia

Traditional Cambodian cuisine, or Khmer cuisine, offers a harmonious blend of flavors, textures, and aromas that reflect the influences of various civilizations while maintaining a distinct identity. At the core of Cambodian cooking are the fresh, vibrant ingredients found in the bustling markets, including an abundance of herbs, rice, fish, and fruits, which are the staples of this culinary tradition.

Whether you are dining at one of the best restaurants in Cambodia or enjoying Cambodia street food, Cambodian cuisine is characterized by a balance of sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and spicy flavors. This is exemplified in the popular “Somlor Machu,” a sour soup that showcases the Khmer culinary art of blending different taste sensations in a harmonious dish. The use of “Prahok,” a fermented fish paste, is a distinctive flavor found in many Cambodian recipes, adding a unique depth and umami to dishes.

Exploring traditional Cambodian food is not just about tasting the dishes; it’s an immersive experience of the country’s history, culture, and communal way of life, where meals are shared and enjoyed together. From the bustling Cambodia street food stalls in the country’s major cities to the serene countryside eateries, each bite tells a story of Cambodia’s rich heritage and the resilience and warmth of its people.

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