Phnom Penh
The dynamic capital of Cambodia, situated at the confluence of the Mekong, Bassac, and Tonle Sap rivers, Phnom Penh, once the heart of Indochina, continues to captivate visitors. The city retains its allure with attractions such as the gleaming spires of the Royal Palace, the fluttering saffron robes of monks, French colonial mansions, and tree-lined boulevards blending harmoniously with monumental Angkorian architecture. Along the banks of the mighty Mekong, Phnom Penh extends a warm Cambodian welcome.
Phnom Penh Experience
Food and Dining
Cambodian food is influenced by nearby Thailand and Vietnam, with a strong focus on fish due to its location at the Mekong River delta.
Key ingredients like Cambodian pepper, cardamoms, curry pastes (kroeung), lemongrass, chili, kaffir lime leaves, Asian basil, and galangal add rich flavors to stir-fries, stews, and soups. Prahok, a seasoning made from fermented fish, is a distinctive and beloved flavor in Cambodian dishes.
Rice, whether sticky or fragrant jasmine, is the basis of most Khmer meals. Vietnamese influence appears in noodle soups like kuy teav, while the French legacy is seen in the popularity of coffee and nom pang (baguette sandwiches with pork) as snacks.
Specialties:
- Balut: Fertilized duck eggs served as a snack, sometimes with a whole chick inside.
- Prahok: Fermented fish paste, commonly used in stir-fries but rarely in soups.
- Fried Tarantula: Considered a delicacy in North Cambodia and a bold treat for adventurous eaters.
- Amok Trey: Fish cooked in a thick coconut curry sauce, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed.
- Babor: Rice porridge with chicken broth, often with an omelette or dried small fry.
- Kuy Teav: Rice noodle soup with pork stock, believed to originate from China, commonly eaten for breakfast.
- Bai Chha: Khmer fried rice with sausage, pork, garlic, and herbs.
- Kralan: Sticky rice flavored with sugar, beans, and grated coconut, steamed inside a bamboo pole.
- Lok Lak: Stir-fried beef in a lime, salt, and pepper sauce, usually with fried potatoes and an egg.
- Mee Katang: Cantonese-style wide rice noodles cooked with meat and vegetables in oyster sauce.
- Nom Banh Chok: Curry-style noodles often served with shredded fish, turmeric root, lemongrass, citrus, mint, and chili.
- Pleah Sach Ko: Beef ceviche with peanuts and garlic, dressed in a lime and palm sugar dressing.
Beverages:
- Fresh Coconut Juice: A popular and refreshing drink.
- Green Tea: Reflecting China’s culinary influence.
- Rice Wine: Often infused with spices as sombai.
- Beer: Look for local lagers like Angkor and Anchor.
- Golden Muscle Wine: Made from herbs and deer antlers.
Restaurants
Local cuisine restaurant:
- Malis Restaurant: No. 136, Norodom Blvd, Phnom Penh
- Eleven One Kitchen: Street 460, Tuol Tom Poung & Street 334, BKK
- Romdeng Restaurant: No. 74 Oknha Ket St, Phnom Penh
- Krovanh Restaurant: 112 Samdach Sothearos Blvd, Phnom Penh
- Kraya Angkor: The Point Community Mall, Mao Tse Toung Boulevard, Phnom Penh
Western cuisine restaurant:
- Topaz: 162 Norodom Blvd, Phnom Penh
- Khéma Pasteur: Corner of Street 228 & Street 51 Phnom Penh
- Luigi’s Italian Restaurant: Street 167 house n1D, Phnom Penh
- Farm to Table: #16, Street #360, Phnom Penh
- Backyard Cafe:House 11b, Vimol Thoam Thong Street 246, Phnom Penh
Shopping
When shopping in Cambodia, you can explore different regions, each offering unique items and experiences.
Top Places to shop in Phnom Penh :
- Central Market (Phsar Thmei): Traditional Khmer textiles and clothing, Jewelry and gemstones, Silverware and handicrafts, Electronics and gadgets
- Russian Market (Phsar Toul Tom Poung): Antique and vintage items, Artwork and paintings, Second-hand clothing, Local and international brand knock-offs
- Street 240 and Riverside: Boutique shops with designer clothing, Art galleries featuring local artists, Souvenirs and traditional crafts, Cafés and restaurants with unique dining ware
Explore Phnom Penh Trip
- Phnom Penh
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