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.

	Cambodia
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	+855 10 833 168

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Introducing ART for Kep

ART for Kep is a transformative initiative led by Knai Bang Chatt, aiming to rejuvenate the landscape of Kep through the power of art. This private endeavor seeks to blend cultural tourism, support for Cambodian artists, and environmental conservation into a cohesive and inspirational platform.

“Public art educates and sparks creativity and imagination,” explains the team behind ART for Kep. The project is designed to provide local artists with a space to unleash their creativity while offering companies the chance to showcase their vision through art sponsorship. By doing so, it supports regional development and growth, benefiting both local and international tourists.

The Coral Kingdom: A Beacon of Unity and Conservation

At the heart of ART for Kep stands the Coral Kingdom, a monumental sculpture symbolizing unity and collaboration across various levels of stakeholders. Crafted by the talented artist Sothea Thang and brought to life by Bloom Architects, this 5.7-meter sandstone structure embodies the beauty of the sea and the importance of environmental conservation.

“Coral Kingdom captures the essence of our coastal region’s beauty and the necessity of preserving it for future generations,” says Sothea Thang. This sculpture not only serves as an inspiration for the community but also stands as a testament to the power of collective effort in creating something meaningful.

Expanding the Artistic Horizon: The Role of Art in Public Spaces

Coral Kingdom is just the beginning. ART for Kep envisions a vibrant cultural platform where various art forms such as music, movies, fashion, performing arts, and dance come together. Each of these forms evokes emotions, tells stories, and promotes cultural trends, aligning with the project’s vision to transform Kep into a hub of creativity.

Art in public spaces allows individuals to freely express themselves, unrestricted by societal limitations. It is a potent tool for conveying emotions, ideas, and cultural perspectives. “Art stimulates diverse conversations and enriches our culture, serving as a tourism attraction, educating the public, revitalizing the region, and supporting the local art community,” emphasizes the ART for Kep team.

Discover more thing’s to do in Cambodia

The project’s goal is to highlight the beauty of Kep and Cambodia’s rich culture. By creating thrilling and educational experiences, ART for Kep aims to inspire and motivate fellow Cambodians. The initiative seeks to establish a symbiotic relationship between corporate sponsorship and artistic performances, benefiting companies, artists, and the entire region.

How You Can Get Involved

You can support ART for Kep by contributing $5 for each brick through their website, www.artforkep.com. They offer Standard and Bronze packages for budget-conscious art enthusiasts, along with Silver, Gold, and Platinum packages tailored for companies. These premium options provide extensive benefits, ensuring a rewarding experience for businesses.

The ART for Kep project is dedicated to spreading positivity and benefiting everyone involved. As Cambodia transitions from a low-income to a high-middle-income economy by 2030, it is crucial to foster new connections that inspire growth among both locals and tourists. “We aim to cultivate creativity and cultural appreciation among the younger generation while attracting visitors from around the world,” says Jef Moons, CEO of Knai Bang Chatt.

For more information, visit ART for Kep.

More info on: https://www.artforkep.org/

	Cambodia
	https://www.artforkep.org/
	+855 78 888 557

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In a bold move that underscores confidence in Cambodia’s Kep province, the renowned boutique retreat Knai Bang Chatt has undergone a remarkable transformation, emerging as “Kep West” – a dynamic culinary beach destination promising opulent accommodations, an eclectic dining scene, and a plethora of leisure activities. With its recent debut, Kep West is poised to invigorate the local economy and reinvigorate Kep’s identity as a premier high-end tourism hotspot.

Rooms at the rebranded Kep West, as per the hotel’s booking platform, range from $200 to $500 per night, boasting tasteful furnishings adorned with indigenous antiques and artifacts, seamlessly marrying contemporary Khmer aesthetics with traditional architecture.

The unveiling of Kep West comes at a pivotal juncture, with upscale tourism assuming an increasingly pivotal role in Cambodia’s economic landscape. Blessed with pristine coastlines, a rich cultural tapestry, and a burgeoning hospitality sector, Cambodia has steadily captivated discerning globetrotters in search of bespoke luxury experiences. By catering to this discerning demographic, Kep West is primed to not only drive substantial revenue but also catalyze the nation’s economic prosperity.

Founder Jef Moons, whose passion for Cambodia fueled the project’s inception, remarked on the profound inspiration behind Kep West: “Since my arrival in 2003, I fell in love with Cambodia. From that love, an ambition grew to create and inspire, and today we have birthed a new culinary beach haven named ‘Kep West’. It is not ‘I’ who have crafted this, but ‘We’ who have brought it to life,” articulated Moons.

Beyond its economic dividends, high-end tourism holds promise in terms of job creation and skill enhancement for local inhabitants, thereby enhancing livelihoods and galvanizing community development. With its luxurious accommodations and diverse epicurean offerings, Kep West is poised to emerge as a pivotal player in Cambodia’s upscale tourism panorama.

Moons elucidated further, “Kep West epitomizes lifestyle – encompassing Architecture, Design, Music, & Art.” As part of the initiative, a coral statue is slated for construction on the shoreline, serving as a guardian of the oceans, drawing tourism, and positioning Kep as a cultural and architectural gem along the coast.

The unveiling of Kep West underscores the region’s untapped investment potential and underscores the allure of high-end tourism in Cambodia. At the launch event, Moons extended an invitation to others to partake in the endeavor to make Kep West an indelible mark on guests’ memories, stating, “With this, I extend the opportunity for our esteemed guests, esteemed members of the community, and friends of Knai Bang Chatt to engage and contribute to realizing this landmark vision.”

With its inauguration, Kep West endeavors to carve a niche as a distinguished and esteemed brand, beckoning refined local and international travelers alike and solidifying the pivotal role of high-end tourism in Cambodia’s economic narrative.

	Kep Cambodia
	https://www.cambodialifestyle.com/kep-province-guide/
	+855 9 678 01791

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In a momentous achievement, the picturesque Cambodian coastal towns of Kep and Kampot, situated as the capitals of their respective provinces, have been bestowed with the esteemed fourth ASEAN Clean Tourist City Standard for the years 2024-2026.

The recognition was formally conferred during an award ceremony held on January 26, 2024, in the enchanting Lao capital, Vientiane. The event, held under the theme “Quality and Responsible ASEAN-Sustaining ASEAN Future,” saw the presence of tourism ministers from ASEAN member nations, alongside representatives from China, Japan, South Korea, and several other countries.

Accepting the award on behalf of Kep, provincial governor Som Piseth expressed his gratitude on January 28, attributing the significant achievement to the collaborative efforts of provincial authorities and residents alike.

Kep Beach is a renowned beauty spot in the Kingdom

SOURCE: KEP Provincial Department

Piseth detailed that Kep’s recognition was based on various criteria, encompassing a pristine environment, public order, tourism development, sanitation, waste management, and water treatment.

“This award is crucial, serving as a reminder – particularly to the youth – of the importance of collective endeavors to safeguard the environment,” Piseth emphasized. He underscored the award’s significance, not only for Kep but for the entire Kingdom of Cambodia, elevating its global profile and showcasing numerous world-class destinations.

However, Piseth acknowledged that with this recognition comes a shared responsibility to ensure the town’s cleanliness is sustained. He highlighted the imperative need for continued efforts in environmental preservation.

Simultaneously, the Kampot Provincial Administration confirmed that Kampot also secured the same prestigious award for the 2024-2026 period.

During the previous assessment period of 2022-2024, three other Cambodian towns – Battambang, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville – were honored with the ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award.

The ASEAN secretariat clarified that these awards encompass various categories, acknowledging excellence in places, tourism entities, and specialist products and services.

Kampot is a popular destination with a mix of traditional and tourist offerings

SOURCE: Supplied

Cambodia’s commitment to excellence in tourism has not gone unnoticed on the international stage. The country has been the recipient of various prestigious awards, including the World’s Best Tourism Destination by the European Council on Tourism and Trade. These accolades underscore Cambodia’s unwavering dedication to fostering sustainable tourism practices, promoting cultural heritage, and providing memorable experiences for visitors.

As Cambodia continues to shine on the global tourism stage, these awards stand as testaments to the nation’s ongoing efforts to create a harmonious balance between tourism development and environmental preservation.

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

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After making a beeline to Kampot to try “English Chinese Food”, I realized I was just a short hop away from another item on my bucket list, the Raingsey Bungalows. To that end? Off to Kep to check them from said list.

To read about English Chinese food in Kampot click here

What are the Raingsey Bungalows?

Bit of a prelude to that answer. Let’s start with how I heard of them.

Raingsey Bungalows first came to my attention when they started running their “Cine  Club” nights. Held open air style, I was drawn to check it out as my inner film buff has been sadly in need of a unique cinematic experience since the sad demise of The Flicks in Phnom Penh. Cine Club’s selection of film genres varies but is well thought out and features an admirable emphasis on Cambodian movies. 

On said movie nights, one of which coincides with the time of posting this. To start things off? Colombian chefs are brought in to provide interesting fare as a much appreciated add-on to the open air film experience. And both guests and locals alike have embraced these evenings of cinema and a good nosh heartily with their devotion. Tonight’s film by the way is “Maria Full of Grace”.

And what is it like to stay in Raingsey Bungalows?

Kep is a funny little town, famously sleepy, and in some respects devoid of much of a nightlife. It is though full of hotels and resorts that fit pretty much every budget and level of quality. 

Now while I did enter Raingsey with a high degree of favourable bias in place, I was still extremely impressed by the quality of the rooms, the beautiful pool and terrace and the bar. More on that in the next section.

Location-wise, it things could also not be much better. It’s straight up from the Kep Crab Market and perhaps a 15 minutes walk from Kep beach, a stretch of sand with much going for it (when not raining)!

Where can you get craft beer in Kep?

Here’s where the resort gets double bubble kudos from the Khmer Nights team. Not only is nightlife scarce in Kep, but draft beer even more so. You’d lucky to find even a local joint doing Ganzberg on tap. 

With the owner of Rainsey Bungalows being a proud Australian beer lover he felt that Covid or not, this was just not acceptable.

He thus made a deal with the fine people at Fuzzy Logic to become the first place in Kep to serve craft beer. Their craft beer debut night drew over 80 people who went through keg after keg. And now? Craft beer is very much a “thing” now in Kep.

As well as the draft, they also have a fine selection of bottles, which includes the somewhat “girly” choice of Fuzzy Logic Hard Lemonade. It’s my favourite and I comfortable enough with my sexuality to double-dare you to call my choice of tipple that to my face! I’m kidding of course. Aren’t we are all grown-ups here and well beyond making leaps of logic (fuzzy or otherwise) based on personal taste preferences? Anyone? Why do I hear crickets? Oh well, hopefully we will be seeing it on draft soon. 

The bar and hotel indeed are about so much more than just the craft beer though. The charming French manager Marie Gana makes sure guests have everything they need and indeed that the bar is as pumping as you’d expect for Kep. Technically they close at 10, but if people are up for a drink, the management are more than happy to oblige them with what we would calla “lock in” back in the UK.

Kep is not suddenly going to morph into the party capital of Cambodia and thank heavens for that. Because when a relaxing few days by the sea is what’s on your mind, nothing quite beats the town.

So for us? The Raingsey Bungalows get the Khmer Nights seal of approval. Nice rooms at a great price, plenyty of craft beer and owners and managers that genuinely care about their guests. 

If you’re looking for a cool couple of days outside the big smoke we recommend this place as a great getaway from city life. The coolest place to hang in Kep? No doubt in our minds.

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

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One of the best things about Kep is just how sleepy a town it is, that is at least until nightfall hits and you find you have little to do. Raingsey Bungalows are trying to change all of that though, not just with events, but also with the great news that Kep gets draft craft, finally.

To read about rainy days in Kep click here.

Where can I get draft beer in Kep?

There are a smattering of places that do Angkor, or Cambodia beer on tap in Kep, but until this coming Tuesday the craft beer scene in the seaside town has been lacking to say the least. Raingsey Bungalows will be trailblazing draft craft from Fuzzy Logic, with there initially being two beers, namely their 6.8% IPA, as well as the 4.8% Blonde offering, with the resort planning on expanding the range in the future.

Who are Raingsey Bungalows

Raingsey Bungalow, who describe themselves as a small 3-star resort near the Kep Crab Market initially caught our attention due to their previously held movie night, which you can read about here.

As well as the aforementioned film night, they also run a number of other weekly events, as well as offering deluxe bungalows for as little as $40 a night.

When can I get my draft craft in Kep?

Raingsey Bungalows will be holding an event this Tuesday to mark the independence of Cambodia, which as well as the aforementioned draft beer, will also include tacos and burritos from the onsite Colombian chefs, and music from resident Khmer Nights writer Phil Javelle and Sylvain Louver.

Speaking to Khmer Nights resort manager Sylvain Louvel told us “We are really excited to have the first draft craft beer in Kep and hope our events will bring together both the local community and visitors alike”.

You can check out the Kep Kambucha Facebook page here, as well as RSVP the event via Raingsey Bungalows here.

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

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Raingsey Bungalow are planning their first movie night in Kep. Officially titled “Temakis and Cinema” the event will start at 6.30 pm on Thursday October the 28th. Khmer Nights went to find out what on earth a “Temak” was.

Movie Night in Kep! – What’s the score?

Many of us Phnompenhers lamented the demise of The Flicks and of course what it meant for independent cinema, so while traveling all the way to Kep might seem a little extreme, they truly have a great event planned.

Raingsey Bungalow, who describe themselves as a small 3-star resort near the Kep Crab Market will be showing “Don’t think I’ve forgotten: Cambodia’s Lost Rock and Roll” – a documentary about the Khmer rock scene during the 60’s. And best of all it will be shown on a projector out in the open-air!

What else is on offer?

According to Raingsey Bungalow’s there will be craft beers from Fuzzy Logic, Kombucha, popcorn (of course), as well as Temaki cooked by two Colombian chefs.

And a temaki? In its most basic form, temaki is a sushi hand roll; a single large, cone-shaped piece of seaweed on the outside, with a variety of ingredients — almost always including a type of fish — spilling out of the wide end.

And if like our good selves you are planning on going to Kep for the event, then one of their plush bungalows can be booked for about $40, via phone Facebook (link at end of article).

Raingsey Bungalow and Movie Night in Kep!

In case you cannot make it this Thursday then do not fret, the event will be the first of many planned by the resort, with manager Marie Gana telling Khmer Nights “We plan to do this every two weeks, with there not only being a new menu each time, but also soon the first draft craft beer in Kep. The overall goal though is to bring the local community together for a fun time”!

And with Kep the cool sleepy seaside town that it is this just adds another reason to visit. To RSVP the event, or to simply stalk Raingsey Bungalow’s, you can check out their Facebook page here or get them via phone and Telegram on 077927030.

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

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Majorelle Kep – a rebirth? In these times of uncertainty for the restaurant and bar business, moving can be a synonym of surviving. Phnom Penh seems to be under a never-ending alcohol ban, threats of curfews and lockdowns. As in many countries around the world, life in big cities loses its charm when viruses run rampant.

Heading to the countryside is definitely a life improvement and for some activities, a necessity. From last Thursday September 23^rd, 2021, Kep’s outstanding landscape hosts Majorelle, previously located on Phnom Penh’s Street 154, near Phsar Kandal.

Majorelle Kep

Majorelle Kep is literally a re-birth. Rodolphe Seiller, its owner, comes back to a region where he was one of the first barangs to invest. Le Flamboyant Resort was a true “flamboyant” – flourishing –  achievement back in time. Let’s wish him the same success with Majorelle, which was already very well appreciated in Phnom Penh.

The first chapter of this gastronomic experience could be named “Finding Majorelle”. Don’t expect the Marrakesh inspired colourful venue to be anywhere near the tumultuous areas of Kep. Cuisine deserves quietness and majesty: Rodolphe established Majorelle in the middle of high trees, green lands and rice fields, in Kao Kroasan, between Kep City and Damnak. You will have to drive around 4 miles (6 km) from Kep Beach, on National Road 33, before seeing on your left the solar-powered Majorelle sign at the entrance of a tiny path. A few hundred metres more and you’ve arrived at your destination, an oasis of calm that favors discreet gourmet feasts.

Majorelle Kep and the weekend Expat scene

Despite its distance from Kep’s centre, Majorelle is full on its first Sunday night. Expatriates from Kep and visitors from Phnom Penh share the spacious terrace, set up around a small central concrete house. When arriving at Majorelle, you can’t miss what you came for: the exterior kitchen, open to all eyes, where Rodolphe’s faithful lady Chef rushes to satisfy the impatient clients. His wife and he manage the service.

Most of you know Majorelle gardens in Marrakesh, French designer Yves-Saint-Laurent’s very private retreat, now a museum. It is famous for his unique Majorelle blue-painted buildings, which Rodolphe perfectly reproduced on his restaurant’s walls. Complementary bright orange and green tints give the place a shimmering aspect and an exotic feeling, which is quite exciting and unexpected when you already live in the tropics!

Majorelle Kep Menu

The garden, which highest trees are slightly illuminated at night, brings serenity and favorable auspices to the upcoming culinary journey. And what a journey! The menu takes you to Greece, Madagascar, Tahiti, Ivory Coast, Argentina, West Indies, Sicily, France…

I could not taste all the flavours and recipes, but being a client of Majorelle in Phnom Penh, I already knew some of them: the homemade blackcurrant Foie Gras, the stuffed spicy crab from Madagascar re-visited with fine local blue crab meat, the Tahitian raw tuna cubes with crunchy vegetables and coconut topping, the Café de Paris super tender beef fillet, the Cipriani beef carpaccio with its unique light mayonnaise, the rosemary smoked ‘A La Minute’ salmon fillet, the grilled Attieké lobster from Ivory Coast, the Greek zucchini and feta cheese fritters, the Argentinian chimichurri buffalo, and for dessert , the homemade luscious chocolate mousse or the gargantuan double French pancake stuffed with blueberry jam and topped with whipped cream.

Starter, main course and dessert with a couple of glasses of wine for a USD 15 to 20 bill. That’s what I call a totally non-guilty pleasure. The whole clientele was utterly seduced and happy. You could not hear a word while people were eating, which means the food was damn good.

Kampot, Kep and hidden gems

Rodolphe is an adventurer, he brought back all those recipes from countries where he stayed and worked in. Kep’s Majorelle is his 30^th business creation! He found this shack a few weeks ago and renovated it on his own, as fast as can be, in order to offer both Kep’s residents and visitors a true gastronomic experience for a very reasonable budget, outmatching the expensive and outdated crab market’s caffs, proudly competing with the iconic Strand at Knai Bang Chatt, still a top preference in Kep.

Kampot and Kep are becoming trendy and major destinations for internal tourism in Cambodia. Kampot already has a wide range of different food offers, and a few dazzling creative restaurants, such as Atlas, Tertulia, or Amber. Kep only had very rare thrilling places. Majorellle definitely changes the game and takes it one big step higher.

	Phnom Penh, Cambodia
	https://www.cambodialifestyle.com/phnom-penh/
	+855 9 678 01791

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In Phil Javele first article for Khmer Nights he reviews Katmandu Restaurant on Kep pier.

I still remember the first time I visited Kep, back in 2004: a pastime pearl, peaceful haven, where time seems to have stopped. A few bamboo and straw resorts in the middle of flamboyant trees welcomed colourful groups of bohemian lifestyle lovers. Away from Crab Market’s bustle, isolated charming and genuine places humbly provided a mix of tasty Khmer and Western food. Yes, there were quite a lot of French dishes… but Kep has been quite tinted with French colonialism, hasn’t it?

The formidable growth of Cambodia hasn’t spared Kep. Chinese funded buildings with flashing colours emerged amongst the ruins of colossal mansions, razing flamboyant trees and eclipsing our modest favorite shacks.

There is no Pizza Hut in Kep!

Feeling depressed? Smile! There’s no Pizza Hut in Kep! Not yet. And there is… Kathmandu.

To read our take on Pizza Hut Phnom Penh click here

It’s just a few meters from the main road, once you’ve passed Kep’s masterpiece Rock Hotel, just before the pier to Rabbit Island. Follow the sign, take that small path towards the late Brise de Kep, forget the Chinese hotel around the corner, and here you are.

Katmandu Restaurant Kep

The old block housing Kathmandu has the timeless charm of simplicity. Bushes around resonate to the incessant quivering of birds and frogs. Owned by Usha, an ebullient Nepalese woman, and her French (again) husband Vincent, Kathmandu is both a guesthouse and a restaurant, authentic and peaceful. Family feel. The couple’s two kids are adorable, so are the cats. Three wooden tables on the terrace. Yellow lights and a green LED ribbon at night. A few zen knick-knacks and a hammock. Next door, Louise hosts yoga and meditation retreats, healing workshops… See, you’re not depressed anymore.

I forgot to mention the rotisserie at the entrance. Such a tempting smell!

Katmandu Restaurant – The Menu

Vincent brings me the menu featuring Indian, Khmer and Western recipes. Momos and thali. Butter chicken masala. A choice of amok. Schnitzel and spaghetti. Noodle soups. To be paired with ginger pineapple shake, lassi or masala tea. The breakfast offer is dope: eggs in multiple ways, from boiled to scrambled, muesli, aloo roti and a luscious homemade banana cake which you can also find at Kep’s notorious Pet Sarath supermarket.

What was it like to travel around Maoist Nepal? Click here to find out

I order a vegetable thali and, greedy me, a quarter of roast chicken (yeah, the rotisserie). The latter is nicely seared. The meat melts in the mouth, the well seasoned and not greasy skin is crunchy as can be. The potatoes lack a bit of garlic and salt. I’m full already, the plateful is generous. And… here comes the thali: a savoury mix of tofu and eggplant in curry sauce, dahl, tomato chutney and brown rice.

Double hit. This is succulent homemade food.

Weekends in Kep

Kathmandu is busy on this Friday night. There’s not much talking as everyone enjoys the Cuisine, but once we’ve satisfied our appetite, the atmosphere and our hosts bring people together: a charming retired Italian gentleman with his Khmer girlfriend, a young Cambodian businesswoman on vacation, a French (again and again) trendy architect, and Louise, the neighbour.

Clearly, the clientele is eclectic. Despite the venue’s modest look, it does attract a wider range of customers than the backpackers you could expect. Both Cambodians and expatriates like its spirit and Usha’s food, not judging the book by its cover.

Usha and Vincent met in Kep ten years ago. While cheerful and talkative with their guests, they remain discreet in their daily life, and above all, very hard workers: Kathmandu operates seven days a week. On top, Usha runs Lily’s Kitchen, her takeout brand: daily suggestions that she delivers. She has a secret weapon: her Nepalese dumplings, one of Kep’s best-sellers. Stuffed with chicken, pork, cheddar or ham, people seem to unanimously crave them.

The best Nepalese and Indian food in Kep?

Owning Kathmandu hardly spares any leisure time. Vincent savours his rare moments of swimming in the sea. Kep’s beaches are not the best ones in the country, and the sea’s brown colour makes the best swimmer reluctant. Vincent has found a precious small rocky spot, between the crab statue and the huts, where the sea appears transparent green. That’s what Kep is all about: to discover and treasure.

Now that I discovered Kathmandu, I will treasure it, taste its whole menu, enjoy its inspiring mood. Informal. Timeless.

Yes, time stopped at Kathmandu, Kep. For the best.

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

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