Photo: Mean lucci

Cambodia is often recognized for its rich history, stunning temples, and vibrant culture, but one aspect of its heritage that has seen a resurgence in recent years is its culinary tradition. The dark days of the Khmer Rouge almost wiped out Cambodia’s food culture, but today, the streets of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are once again filled with the sounds and smells of a cuisine that has been revived, reimagined, and re-embraced by its people.

Cambodian cuisine is more than just sustenance; it’s a symbol of resilience and a deep connection to the country’s cultural roots. Today, dishes once thought lost to history have made a remarkable comeback, and street food plays a key role in this culinary renaissance.

The Khmer Rouge and the Culinary Void

To understand Cambodia’s food revival, we must first acknowledge the devastation caused by the Khmer Rouge. During its brutal reign from 1975 to 1979, the regime sought to erase all forms of individuality, including Cambodia’s rich culinary heritage. Skilled chefs and food artisans were targeted, and traditional recipes were lost as families were torn apart. Food was reduced to mere survival, with people subsisting on basic rations and crude meals made from whatever was available.

Staple dishes like fish amok (a fragrant fish curry steamed in banana leaves), kuy teav (noodle soup), and num banh chok (Khmer noodles) disappeared from the culinary landscape. But as Cambodia began to recover, so too did its food culture. Learn more about Cambodia’s history here.

The Rise of Street Food

Cambodia’s culinary revival didn’t happen overnight. As the country stabilized in the 1990s and tourism grew, Cambodians began to rediscover their food heritage. At the heart of this revival was street food. Affordable and accessible, street food vendors brought back traditional dishes to the masses, giving new life to Cambodia’s lost culinary identity.

One of the most iconic dishes to return was fish amok, now a staple on nearly every menu in the country. Traditionally made with freshwater fish, coconut milk, and fragrant spices, fish amok is often seen as Cambodia’s national dish. Its comeback is a testament to the resilience of the people and their desire to preserve their culinary traditions.

Another dish that has made a strong return is num banh chok, also known as “Khmer noodles.” Often eaten for breakfast, this dish features cold rice noodles topped with a green fish curry. It’s a humble dish with deep roots in Cambodian culture, and you’ll find it sold by street vendors across the country today. 

Preserving Tradition, Embracing Innovation

Cambodia’s food revival isn’t just about preserving old traditions; it’s also about innovation. Street food vendors and chefs alike are finding ways to pay homage to the past while embracing new ingredients and cooking techniques. Dishes like lok lak—a stir-fried beef dish influenced by French colonial flavors—have evolved, with vendors adding their own twists while keeping the essence of the dish intact.

The resurgence of street food is particularly visible in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Walk through Phnom Penh’s bustling Russian Market, and you’ll encounter stalls selling everything from grilled meats to steaming bowls of samlor korko, a traditional vegetable stew. This dish, once tied to royal cuisine, is now accessible to all, thanks to street vendors who have adapted it for modern times.

In Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor Wat, you’ll find a vibrant street food scene catering to both locals and tourists. From vendors serving freshly grilled bai sach chrouk (pork with rice) to refreshing glasses of teuk kroch (sugarcane juice), the streets are alive with the flavors of Cambodia’s past, present, and future. Discover more about Siem Reap’s culinary scene.

The Role of Street Food in Cambodia’s Identity

Street food has always been a reflection of Cambodia’s identity. In a country where many people live on modest incomes, street food is both affordable and deeply ingrained in everyday life. Whether it’s a quick bite on the way to work or a gathering with friends and family, street food brings people together.

Dishes like kuy teav, a noodle soup typically eaten for breakfast, have become a symbol of Cambodia’s cultural revival. Kuy teav is made with rice noodles, a rich broth, and various toppings like minced pork, shrimp, and fresh herbs. Today, you can find this beloved dish in both street stalls and high-end restaurants, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity. Learn more about Cambodia’s cuisine.

Street food has also become a major draw for tourists. Visitors to Cambodia are not just coming to explore the temples of Angkor or the beaches of Sihanoukville; they’re coming for the food. Street food tours, cooking classes, and market excursions are now part of the Cambodian travel experience, helping to spread the country’s culinary legacy to the world.

What Lies Ahead for Cambodian Cuisine?

The future of Cambodian cuisine looks bright. As more and more people take an interest in preserving their culinary heritage, we’re seeing chefs dig deeper into the country’s past, rediscovering recipes that haven’t been used in decades. At the same time, street food vendors continue to innovate, adapting traditional recipes to suit modern tastes and embracing global food trends.

In conclusion, Cambodia’s culinary revival is a powerful symbol of the country’s resilience and cultural pride. From the dark days of the Khmer Rouge to the vibrant street food scenes today, Cambodia has rebuilt not only its food culture but also its identity. Street food has become the lifeblood of this revival, ensuring that the flavors of the past continue to shape the future. As Cambodian cuisine continues to evolve, one thing is certain: its roots run deep, and its future looks incredibly delicious.

	Cambodia
	https://www.cambodialifestyle.com
	+855 9 678 01791

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When you think of Cambodian cuisine today, you might picture vibrant markets overflowing with fresh produce, aromatic spices, and mouthwatering street food. 

However, the period of Democratic Kampuchea (1975-1979) marks a stark contrast, characterized by extreme hardship and a devastating loss of culinary heritage. Under the oppressive regime of the Khmer Rouge, food became a tool for oppression, leading to starvation and the near-erasure of Cambodia’s rich gastronomic culture.

The Khmer Rouge Regime: A Dark Chapter in Culinary History

In April 1975, when the Khmer Rouge took power, they sought to transform Cambodian society into an agrarian utopia. This radical shift forced the population to abandon urban centers, uprooting lives and destroying the fabric of traditional culture. The culinary landscape suffered dramatically; dishes that once filled family tables vanished as the regime imposed harsh restrictions on food production and consumption.

Food became a symbol of survival and oppression. Traditional Khmer meals, often rich in flavor and variety, were reduced to meager rations of boiled rice and thin soup. Dishes like fish amok and kuy teav were almost entirely wiped from the collective memory as Cambodians were forced to subsist on whatever they could find, often foraging wild plants, insects, or whatever scraps were available. The regime’s disdain for the “bourgeois” culture meant that even the celebration of food was viewed as counter-revolutionary.

The impact of these food policies was catastrophic. Millions of Cambodians faced famine, and those unable to meet agricultural demands suffered severe consequences. This period led to a significant decline in nutrition and culinary diversity, erasing centuries of culinary knowledge and tradition.

Resilience and Ingenuity in the Face of Adversity

Despite the overwhelming hardships, the Cambodian spirit persevered. Villagers developed resourceful strategies for survival, rediscovering ancient techniques to make the most of limited resources. They learned to identify edible plants and mushrooms in the jungle, crafting meals from what nature offered. The culinary knowledge passed down through generations became a vital lifeline, connecting people to their roots amidst the chaos.

Oral traditions played a crucial role in preserving Cambodia’s culinary heritage. Families shared stories and recipes, ensuring that the flavors of their homeland lived on in memory, if not on the plate. This resilience laid the groundwork for the revival of Cambodian cuisine in the years to come.

For those interested in exploring Cambodia’s culinary traditions, check out our guide to Cambodian Street Food, where you can discover the dishes that define the country’s vibrant food culture.

The Aftermath: Rebuilding a Culinary Identity

The fall of the Khmer Rouge in 1979 marked the beginning of a long road to recovery. The nation slowly emerged from the shadows of genocide and oppression, and with it came a revival of Cambodian cuisine. As the country began to heal, street food vendors played an essential role in bringing back traditional flavors.

Phnom Penh and Siem Reap buzzed once more with the sounds of sizzling woks and the aromas of samlor korko (vegetable stew) and num banh chok (Khmer noodles). Each dish that re-emerged symbolized not only a return to culinary roots but also the resilience of a nation determined to reclaim its identity.

The vibrant street food scene today is a testament to the power of culinary heritage. Vendors infuse traditional recipes with modern twists, creating a fusion that captures the essence of Cambodia’s culinary renaissance. To explore the best street food spots, be sure to check out The Street Food Guy’s recommendations.

Honoring the Past: A Culinary Legacy

While the legacy of Democratic Kampuchea is etched in tragedy, it serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage. The revival of Cambodian cuisine transcends mere food; it embodies a national identity and pays homage to those who suffered during the Khmer Rouge regime.

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	+855 9 678 01791

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Nestled along Cambodia’s southern coast, Kep is a town famous for one thing—crab. If you’re a seafood lover or just someone looking to immerse yourself in Cambodian culture, then the Kep Crab Market is the place to be. 

This bustling market, known for its fresh crabs and seafood delights, has long been a foodie hotspot for both locals and travelers alike.

Whether you’re after a fresh catch of blue crabs, a tangy Kampot pepper sauce, or a slice of local life, Kep offers a unique culinary experience that’s hard to match. So, what’s the deal with Kep’s Crab Market, and why should it be on your Cambodian foodie bucket list? Let’s dive in.

The History of Kep Crab Market

The Kep Crab Market has been a central part of the town’s history for decades. Once a simple trading hub where local fishermen would sell their fresh catch to the community, it has grown into a major destination for seafood enthusiasts. Situated right on the water, the market continues to uphold its local roots while welcoming tourists eager to try the freshest crabs around.

Over the years, Kep has become synonymous with blue crabs, which are pulled straight from the sea and sold in heaps at the market. These crabs have gained fame far beyond the region, attracting travelers from all over the world who want to experience the seafood scene for themselves (check out more about Kep’s famous blue crabs here: Kep Crab Market

A Food Lover’s Dream: What You Can Buy

When you step into the Kep Crab Market, the first thing you’ll notice is the variety of seafood on display. The market is a treasure trove for those who love fresh seafood, offering more than just crabs. You’ll find prawns, squid, fish, and even lobsters, all displayed on ice or in buckets of water, ready to be scooped up and sold.

Kep’s Famous Blue Crabs

The blue crabs are the star of the show here. Pulled fresh from the waters just a stone’s throw from the market, these crabs are still wriggling when they’re sold, ensuring you get the freshest product possible. The crabs are typically sold by the kilogram, and the prices are surprisingly affordable, making it an excellent stop for both budget travelers and luxury seekers alike.

What makes Kep’s crabs truly special is the way they’re served. Locals will tell you that the best way to eat them is with a heaping serving of Kampot pepper sauce, a regional specialty that adds a spicy, tangy kick to the sweet, delicate meat of the crabs. The Kampot pepper itself is world-famous and pairs perfectly with the fresh seafood, making the dish a culinary experience you won’t forget.

Other Seafood Delights

But it’s not just crabs that Kep has to offer. You’ll find an array of seafood options at the market, including:

• Prawns: Large, succulent prawns are sold by the kilo, often still jumping in their baskets. They can be grilled on-site or taken to a nearby restaurant for a feast.
• Squid: Fresh squid is abundant in Kep, often sold alongside crabs. These are usually cooked over an open flame or deep-fried, offering a slightly chewy, flavorful bite.
• Fish: Whole fish, caught earlier that day, are available for purchase. These range from small, river-caught fish to larger sea-dwelling varieties like snapper.
• Lobsters: Although pricier, lobsters in Kep are a luxury worth trying if you’re looking to splurge. Fresh and flavorful, they’re often cooked simply to let the natural sweetness of the meat shine.

Cooking Your Catch: Nearby Restaurants

One of the best things about the Kep Crab Market is the ability to purchase fresh seafood and have it cooked for you on-site. Many of the vendors at the market work closely with nearby restaurants to offer this service. You simply buy your seafood—whether it’s crabs, prawns, or fish—and for a small fee, the restaurants will grill, steam, or stir-fry your selection to perfection.

Srey Pov’s Crab Shack is one of the most popular places near the market where you can take your seafood and have it prepared. They specialize in crab dishes, offering everything from steamed blue crabs with Kampot pepper to chili-crab stir-fries. The restaurant’s proximity to the market means you’re getting some of the freshest seafood available, cooked just how you like it.

Another excellent option is Kimly Restaurant, which is famous for its seafood platters and cozy seaside atmosphere. The restaurant has earned a reputation for expertly cooking up the market’s best offerings, from chargrilled squid to baked prawns. Sitting by the sea, with a plate full of freshly cooked seafood and a cold beer, is one of Kep’s true pleasures.

To check out our other Kep articles click here.

What Else to Do in Kep

While the Kep Crab Market is undoubtedly the town’s culinary heart, there’s more to Kep than just seafood. After feasting on crabs and prawns, take a stroll along the coast or visit Kep National Park for a scenic hike. The park offers stunning views of the coastline and the nearby islands, making it a perfect post-lunch activity.

Another popular attraction is Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay), a short boat ride from Kep. Here, you can unwind on quiet beaches, snorkel in clear waters, and—of course—enjoy more seafood at the island’s few rustic restaurants.

To read about Kampot Street Food click here.

How to Get to Kep

Kep is located about 170 km from Phnom Penh, making it easily accessible by road. The drive takes around 2.5 to 3 hours and offers a scenic journey through Cambodia’s rural landscapes. Buses and minivans regularly depart from Phnom Penh’s central bus stations, making the trip hassle-free for travelers.

If you’re coming from Kampot, Kep is just a 30-minute drive away, and many visitors make a day trip between the two coastal towns. Kampot is famous for its pepper plantations, so combining a visit to Kampot Pepper Farms with a seafood feast in Kep is a popular itinerary.

To read about getting to Phu Quoc click here.

Conclusion: Why the Kep Crab Market Should Be on Your Foodie Bucket List

For any seafood lover visiting Cambodia, the Kep Crab Market is an unmissable stop. The freshness of the seafood, the bustling market atmosphere, and the unique opportunity to have your meal cooked right on the spot make it one of the best culinary experiences in the country. Whether you’re feasting on the famous blue crabs, savoring some grilled squid, or simply soaking in the views of the Gulf of Thailand, Kep offers a slice of Cambodia that’s both authentic and unforgettable.

If you’re planning your Cambodian adventure, don’t miss the chance to indulge in the incredible seafood scene at Kep.

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Koh Rong, Cambodia’s largest island, is famous for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere. But beyond the picturesque landscape lies a street food culture that shouldn’t be missed. Though smaller in scale than Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, the island’s street food scene offers a range of seafood dishes, Cambodian staples, and tropical treats that will delight any traveler. Whether you’re chilling at Koh Touch Beach or exploring the quieter parts of the island, here’s a guide to the best street food Koh Rong has to offer.

Fresh Seafood: A Must-Try on Koh Rong

Being an island, it’s no surprise that seafood takes center stage when it comes to street food in Koh Rong. Freshly caught shrimp, squid, crabs, and fish are grilled on the spot at many beachside stalls. The grilled squid on a stick is a popular snack, often marinated in local spices and served with a side of rice or fresh herbs. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a whole grilled fish, seasoned with garlic, lime, and chili for that extra punch of flavor.

For more information on Cambodian seafood dishes, check out Cambodian Seafood Dishes.

Classic Cambodian Dishes: Lok Lak and Amok

Koh Rong isn’t just about seafood—traditional Cambodian dishes are also a mainstay in the island’s street food culture. Lok Lak, a stir-fried beef dish, is commonly found at local food stalls. Served with a tangy lime and pepper dipping sauce, it’s perfect for a quick meal. Another classic is Fish Amok, Cambodia’s national dish, which consists of steamed fish in a coconut curry sauce. Many vendors on the island use freshly caught fish, making the experience even more authentic.

For a deeper dive into Cambodian cuisine, take a look at this Cambodian Cuisine Guide.

Sihanoukville Influence on Koh Rong’s Street Food

Due to its proximity to Sihanoukville, Koh Rong’s street food scene has a noticeable influence from the mainland’s port town. This is particularly evident in the noodle soups and rice dishes that can be found across the island. One of the must-try dishes is Kuy Teav, a noodle soup typically made with pork or beef broth, flavored with herbs, lime, and chili. It’s a breakfast staple in Cambodia but is readily available throughout the day on Koh Rong.

For more on Sihanoukville’s street food, check out this Sihanoukville Street Food Guide.

Tropical Fruits and Sweet Treats

A trip to Koh Rong wouldn’t be complete without indulging in the island’s tropical fruits. Vendors across the island sell fresh mangoes, pineapples, and papayas that are perfect for a refreshing snack on a hot day. If you’re craving something sweet, try the sticky rice with mango, a popular Cambodian dessert that combines coconut milk, sticky rice, and sweet ripe mangoes.

If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll want to read more about Cambodian desserts here: Cambodian Desserts.

Refreshing Drinks to Beat the Heat

Whether you’re exploring the beach or hiking in the jungle, you’ll need a drink to stay cool. The good news is Koh Rong has plenty of refreshing options. Fresh coconut water is available at almost every stall—nothing beats sipping directly from a coconut while soaking in the island vibes. For something a bit stronger, grab an Angkor Beer, Cambodia’s most popular beer, which is a common accompaniment to grilled seafood.

Koh Rong Street Food: Small but Flavorful

Koh Rong may not be as bustling as Cambodia’s larger cities, but what it lacks in quantity, it makes up for in flavor. The island’s street food is a reflection of its natural bounty, with fresh seafood and tropical ingredients at the forefront. From grilled fish on the beach to traditional Cambodian dishes, the food on Koh Rong offers a unique, flavorful experience that’s best enjoyed with your feet in the sand.

For a full guide on Koh Rong, visit Koh Rong Travel Guid.

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When it comes to street food in Cambodia, the bustling cities of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap often steal the spotlight. But for those adventurous souls willing to venture off the well-trodden tourist trail, the town of Takeo offers a unique and authentic culinary experience.

Nestled in the heart of Cambodia’s southern province, Takeo might not have the same international renown as its more famous counterparts, but what it lacks in fame, it more than makes up for in flavor.

To read about Kampot street food click here.

Discovering the Flavors of Takeo

Takeo’s street food scene is a true reflection of the town’s laid-back vibe. This is where you’ll find vendors selling a variety of local delicacies, many of which have been perfected over generations. The food here is a blend of traditional Khmer flavors, with a few regional twists that make it distinct from what you might find in the larger cities.

One of the first things you’ll notice as you stroll through Takeo’s streets is the abundance of fresh ingredients. The town is surrounded by fertile farmland, so it’s no surprise that the produce here is some of the best in Cambodia. From vibrant green herbs to freshly caught fish, the ingredients are as fresh as they come, and this is reflected in the quality of the food on offer.

To read about Ta Mok click here.

Must-Try Dishes in Takeo

When in Takeo, there are a few street food dishes that you absolutely cannot miss. One of the most popular is “Bai Cha”, a simple yet satisfying dish of fried rice, often served with a generous helping of fresh vegetables and your choice of protein, typically chicken, pork, or beef. What sets Bai Cha in Takeo apart is the use of locally grown herbs and spices, which give the dish a unique and aromatic flavor.

Another must-try is “Nom Krok”, a traditional Khmer snack made from rice flour and coconut milk, cooked in small, round molds. These bite-sized treats are crispy on the outside and soft and creamy on the inside, making them the perfect street food to enjoy on the go. In Takeo, you’ll often find Nom Krok served with a sprinkle of green onions and a dash of fish sauce, adding an extra layer of flavor to this already delicious snack.

For those with a more adventurous palate, Takeo offers “Prahok K’tiss”, a spicy, fermented fish paste that is a staple of Khmer cuisine. Served with fresh vegetables and sticky rice, Prahok K’tiss is not for the faint of heart, but for those willing to give it a try, it offers a truly authentic taste of Cambodia.

To read about Battambang street food click here.

The Experience of Eating in Takeo

One of the best things about eating street food in Takeo is the experience itself. Unlike the bustling, sometimes overwhelming street food scenes of Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, Takeo’s food vendors operate at a slower, more relaxed pace. This is a place where you can take your time, savor your food, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life in a small Cambodian town.

Eating street food in Takeo also offers a unique opportunity to connect with the locals. The vendors here are friendly and welcoming, always happy to chat with curious visitors and share the stories behind their dishes. It’s not uncommon to be invited to sit down and enjoy a meal with the vendor and their family, making for an experience that goes beyond just the food.

Exploring Beyond the Food

While Takeo might not be on the typical tourist route, it’s a town with plenty to offer those willing to explore. After filling up on street food, take some time to visit the local markets, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The town is also home to several historical sites, including the ancient Angkor Borei and the nearby Phnom Da temple, both of which are well worth a visit.

For those interested in nature, Takeo is surrounded by lush rice paddies and rolling hills, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring the Cambodian countryside. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply enjoying some of the best street food Cambodia has to offer, Takeo is a destination that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Conclusion: A Hidden Gem of Cambodian Cuisine

Takeo may not have the bustling streets of Phnom Penh or the tourist crowds of Siem Reap, but for those looking to experience Cambodia’s street food scene in its most authentic form, this small town is a hidden gem. With its fresh ingredients, traditional dishes, and warm, welcoming atmosphere, Takeo offers a street food experience that is truly one-of-a-kind. So next time you’re planning a trip to Cambodia, consider taking a detour to Takeo—you won’t be disappointed.

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Siem Reap, famous for the Angkor Wat temples, also boasts a vibrant street food culture that reflects both traditional Khmer cuisine and international influences. The town’s street food can be categorized into three main types: authentic Khmer dishes, Western-inspired street food, and budget-friendly restaurants that offer great value.

To read about Battambang Street Food click here.

Authentic Khmer Street Food

The heart of Siem Reap’s street food culture lies in its traditional Khmer offerings. As evening approaches, the streets around Pub Street and various night markets come alive with the aroma of local delicacies being prepared by vendors. Popular dishes include Lok Lak, a stir-fried beef dish served with a tangy lime and pepper dipping sauce, and Amok, a fragrant coconut milk curry often cooked with fish. Grilled skewers of meat and seafood, served with fresh herbs and rice, are also staples, showcasing the town’s proximity to the bountiful Tonle Sap Lake.

Seafood is particularly noteworthy in Siem Reap, with options like grilled fish and shellfish seasoned with local spices. Snails cooked with lemongrass and chili offer a unique taste experience for the adventurous eater. The abundance of fresh ingredients, combined with the skill of local cooks, makes Siem Reap a hub for sampling authentic Khmer cuisine.

To read about Kampot street food click here.

Western-Inspired and Fusion Street Food

Reflecting Siem Reap’s international appeal, the street food scene also features a variety of Western-inspired dishes. Food courts and stalls around tourist hotspots serve familiar comfort foods like burgers, pizzas, and sandwiches, often with a local twist. This fusion cuisine caters to the diverse tastes of the town’s visitors, blending familiar flavors with Khmer ingredients.

A popular trend is the creation of fusion dishes, such as Khmer-style tacos or pizzas topped with local ingredients. These dishes offer a unique culinary experience, blending the best of Khmer and international flavors. For those seeking a taste of home or something different, these options provide a delightful break from traditional fare.

Budget-Friendly Restaurants

In addition to street vendors, Siem Reap offers numerous budget-friendly restaurants that provide a dining experience akin to street food in terms of price and accessibility. These establishments often feature extensive menus that include both traditional Khmer dishes and international cuisine. Notably, “Happy Pizza” joints are popular, known for their relaxed atmosphere and unique pizza toppings.

These restaurants are not just a draw for tourists but also serve the town’s sizeable expat community. The affordability of dining out in Siem Reap means visitors can enjoy high-quality meals at a fraction of the price they might pay elsewhere. From hearty Khmer dishes to international favorites, these eateries offer something for everyone.

To conclude Siem Reap street food…

Siem Reap’s street food scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Khmer cuisine or curious to try unique fusion dishes, the town offers a plethora of options that cater to all tastes and budgets. As you explore the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, make sure to also embark on a culinary journey through Siem Reap’s bustling streets and markets. This culinary exploration is an integral part of the Siem Reap experience, offering a delicious taste of Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage.

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When it comes to places to visit in Cambodia Poipet tends to be a pass through, rather than a place to stop. This is though quite a shame, with the city having much to offer, not least Poipet street food.

And it is fairly easy to reach, being just a few hours from the tourist Mecca that is Siem Reap, being on the Phnom Penh to Bangkok train route, as well being a border post with Thailand .

Why visit Poipet

In actuality there is a whole heap of tourists that come to Poipet, although almost all of them are gamblers, principally from Thailand. Here you will find casinos everywhere, which at times have caused controversy, particularly with regards to the fir that occurred.

One of the other main reasons to come here is the markets on both the Poipet and the Aranyaprathet sides of the border. These are both heaven if you are looking for either a clothes bargain, or some cross border trade.

Photo by Poipet Town-ទីក្រុងប៉ោយប៉ែត

The other principal draw to visit here is one that many western tourists tend to miss out on and that is cutting down the journey from Bangkok to either Siem Reap, or Phnom Penh and visa versa. This is because aside from the casinos there are good hotels, decent restaurants and a cracking Poipet street food scene. All for which feel make it a decent place to stop.

Poipet Street Food

The pinnacle of Poipet street food is the main food market which offers not just the best in the city, but one o the best street food areas in Cambodia.

To read about street food Battambang click here.

Said market is located next to the “famous” Circle K depending on what night you come here you will see up to 10 full rows of street find stalls, BBQ peddlers and seats for you to eat at.

This incudes pretty much every Khmer variant that you can think of, as well as, as you might expect various Thai street food options. And the whole Khmer-Thai marriage does not stop there, with vendors taking Thai Baht, Khmer Rial, as well as US dollars.

So to the Poipet street food itself, well as we have said there is so much here that it would be impossible to list it all, so we will merely go for the best of the best.

These include both fresh and fried spring rolls, whose sauce is much more spicy than you might get in Phnom Penh. And then there is the squid! Thai and Cambodian squid tends to be huge, cheap and really good. The squid here was as tasty as any I have had on either side of the border, with $5 being enough to fill you up.

Perhaps my favorite element here though was the quirky candies, sweets and drinks. This again provided a huge mix of Khmer and Thai classics, with the later featuring the spinning semi-frozen bottles of beer and sift-drinks of Bangkok fame.

So, overall while you might not change your holiday plans to visit the town, you also do no need to fear going here, nor rush through, of nothing else for the Poipet street food.

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When it comes to places to visit in Cambodia, Battambang is not only one of the most underrated, but also perhaps the biggest hidden gem. And there are a number of reasons for this, such as the amazing bamboo railway, as well as the Battambang street food scene, to name but two.

And it turns out that getting here is also fairly easy with the city connected by train to Phnom Penh, as well as by bus and boat to Siem Reap. It also makes the perfect stop for those heading further north on the bamboo train to Poipet, Bangkok and beyond. 

Why visit Battambang?

Battambang City is the capital of the province of the same name and is located in the north-east of Cambodia up towards the Thai border. Officially it is the third largest city within the Kingdom being beaten out by Phnom Penh, as well as Siem Reap.

Yet while it is the third biggest it is generally not seen as the third most touristically important within the country, with Sihanoukville, Koh Rong, Kep and now even Koh Kong getting higher billing.

Despite this though there is a whole heap to do in Battambang, with the city and province not only offering a number of sites related to Cambodian history, but also more contemporary sites. These include those related to the colonial history of the country, as well as to the Khmer Rouge and indeed the whole dark tourism genre.

One of the best things perhaps that one can do here though is the iconic bamboo railway that simply has to be seen to be believed.

The hotels here are also extremely plentiful, but because it is not so on the tourist radar tend to be very cheap with $30 being enough to get a good standard 3 star hotel with a pool.

Battambang Street Food

And if these were not already good enough reasons to visit then you also have the added caveat that Battambang offers some of the best street food available within the Kingdom.

Battambang much like other street food cities such as Kampot seems to be one that is firmly asleep during the day, but once the sun starts to set you are greeted by the sights, sounds and smell of the street food vendors starting their day. As expected and again much like other locales this is mainly centered around the river, in this case Battambang River.

As expected all the main Khmer street food groups are represented, such as lort cha (លតឆា), bbq, fried rice and pong tia kun (ពងទាកូន), but there are also some dishes completely unique to the city and region.

Top among these perhaps is Songvak (សង្វាក់). This is a sour Cambodian style fish cake which is wrapped firmly in a banana leaf. The dish can now be gotten throughout the country, but is generally considered at its best in Battambang. 

Alongside this is pong muan ang (ពងមាន់អាំង), which is grilled egg on a stick, that has been minority cured. This is then served with Cambodian pepper, salt and garlic. Simple, yet tasty and indeed very Battambang.

And of course should you require something a little more upmarket than mere street food then there are enough Khmer, Chinese and western restaurants to ensure you will not go hungry. 

Thankfully the same can indeed be said for if you get thirsty, with the nightlife of Battambang being small, but still quite eclectic. This includes locals knocking back Ganzberg, riverside bars and for those looking for a little more class a fast emerging sky bar scene.

Yes, it is hardly a metropolis, but it is still well worth a visit. With Battambang street food merely being some added icing to the cake. 

	Battambang Cambodia
	https://www.cambodialifestyle.com/
	+855 9 678 01791

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Khmer cuisine might not yet be taking over the world, but Cambodia is slowly gaining a rep for its great food. And among this genre is its street food, with Kampot offering some of the best within the Kingdom.

For the uninitiated Kampot is one of the most popular places for tourists in Cambodia, with guests drawn for its history, beaches, party vibe, as well as its food. In fact some might argue that when it comes to bang for your buck this town is arguably the best in the country.

It is also but a mere three hours drive from the capital, or if you are feeling really adventurous is also on the southbound Royal Cambodian Railways network. 

So, what is the Kampot street food scene? In essence it can be split into at least three categories, namely true street food, western orientated street food and restaurants that are so damned cheap they might as well be street food. 

Finding the best Kampot Street Food

With the riverside dominating Kampot unsurprisingly it is also the Mecca for dining within the town. This means that whilst options are a little bit spartan during the day, when the sun starts to set this all begins to change when the vendors and carts start to arrive. 

As the cooking starts you are immediately drawn by the aroma of Khmer cuisine, not to mention witnessing Kampot truly come to life. Options wise much of what is on offer is not all that dissimilar to places such as Sihanoukville, or Battambang. 

What makes Kampot stand out though when compared to other towns is that great seafood on offer, as well as the fruits, most famous of which is durian. This notoriously stinky fruit is not only cheap and plentiful in Kampot, but also its second most famous export, after pepper.

Depending on how long you stay in Kampot at least one night can be spend vendor hopping and trying an array of street food. 

The best Kampot food markets and courts 

As well as what you might call traditional Kampot street food, there are also a number of markets, night markets and food courts that offer a similar, but also fairly unique street food experience. These are littered around the whole town, but are most prevalent around the town centre and where all of the tourists hang out.

Said food courts offer all the main favorites, such as fried noodles, rice and Khmer BBQ, but also “tourist friendly” dishes such as fruit shakes and of course vegan options. Interestingly many also provide Khmer variants on western classics such as hamburgers and pizzas, with results best being described as mixed at best. 

My personal favorite in this genre was Khmer Food Cafe (KFC), who did actually sell fried chicken. When asked about the choice of name the owner laughed and said words to the affect of “its brings in the Barang”. 

Restaurants in Kampot

As a town popular nor just with visiting foreigners, but also with large expat population the restaurant scene in Kampot is not just eclectic, but high quality and extremely good value.

This means that quite often there are restaurants with huge menus that offer great dishes in a restaurant environment for the same price as if you were sitting outside. These are chiefly manifested in the many Happy Pizza style joints, that no pun intended previously offered more than just food. Nowadays though they are just great value restaurants.

And as with anything there is also an economies of scale element to food here, with one able to get a steak in a famous restaurant, such as Kampot Pepper and Seafood for as little as $10.

So, while food might not be your principal reason to visit, you will not only not go hungry here, but might also find yourself highly impressed by the Kampot street food scene.

	Kampot, Cambodia
	https://www.cambodialifestyle.com/kampot-province-guide
	+855 9 678 01791

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