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Siem Reap food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Siem Reap.
What to eat in Siem Reap
5 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Amok Trey
A fragrant steamed fish curry, typically made with coconut milk, kroeung (a Cambodian spice paste), and garnished with a dollop of coconut cream. It's a creamy, subtly spiced dish that showcases the delicate flavors of Cambodian cuisine.
Kuy Teav
A popular noodle soup, often pork or beef-based, served with a variety of toppings like sliced meat, herbs, and fried garlic. It’s a comforting and flavorful breakfast staple enjoyed by locals.
Lok Lak
Marinated, stir-fried beef cubes served over a bed of lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, often with a fried egg on top and a side of lime-pepper dipping sauce. The tender beef and tangy sauce are a winning combination.
Bai Sach Chrouk
Grilled pork marinated in garlic and coconut milk, served over rice with pickled vegetables and a side of broth. This is the quintessential Cambodian breakfast, sweet and savory.
Nom Banh Chok
Khmer noodles served in a light, fish-based green curry broth, topped with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and banana flower. It's a refreshing and complex dish, often eaten for breakfast or lunch.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Bustling and energetic, with a high concentration of restaurants, bars, and street food stalls catering to tourists.
A more relaxed and local feel, with a mix of traditional Khmer eateries and cafes, offering a glimpse into daily life.
Trendy and bohemian, featuring artisanal cafes, boutique restaurants, and stylish bars with a focus on fresh ingredients.
A vibrant, traditional market where you can find everything from produce to prepared foods, offering a sensory overload of sights and smells.
Dietary notes
Traditional Khmer cuisine is heavily reliant on fish, pork, and chicken, with rice as a staple. While vegetarian options are becoming more common, especially in tourist-oriented restaurants, many local dishes incorporate fish sauce or shrimp paste. Vegan and gluten-free requests may require careful communication and modifications.
Local etiquette
- •It's customary to eat with a spoon and fork, using the fork to push food onto the spoon. Chopsticks are generally reserved for noodle soups.
- •When eating with others, wait for the eldest person to start eating before you begin.
- •Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service, especially in tourist restaurants. A small amount (5-10%) is customary.
- •Dress modestly when visiting temples and pagodas, covering shoulders and knees. This respect extends to some more traditional dining establishments.
- •Cash is king, especially at street stalls and smaller eateries. Larger restaurants may accept cards, but it's always wise to have small denominations of USD or Cambodian Riel.