Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s bustling capital, is a feast for the senses, and nowhere is this more evident than in its vibrant street food scene. Here, a rich tapestry of flavors awaits, offering an authentic glimpse into the heart of Khmer culinary traditions.
As you wander through the lively streets, the enticing aroma of local spices and the sizzle of street-side grills beckon you to indulge in Phnom Penh’s culinary offerings. From savory snacks to sweet treats, this article will guide you to the best street food in Phnom Penh, promising a delicious journey through the city’s soul.
The Best Markets For Street Food In Phnom Penh
Street food markets in Phnom Penh offer a kaleidoscope of flavors and aromas, each with a unique atmosphere and an array of culinary delights. Check out the top spots that every food lover should explore below.
Central Market (Phsar Thmei)
The art-deco structure of Central Market is a landmark of the city. Inside, a labyrinth of food stalls beckons. It’s a place where fresh ingredients meet the culinary artistry of local vendors. Try the freshly made spring rolls or the succulent skewers of grilled meat for a quick snack, or sit down for a full meal of amok fish, a traditional creamy curry that’s a delight to the senses.
The above viewpoint of Central Market (Source: Collected)
Russian Market (Phsar Toul Tom Poung)
A bustling hub of activity, the Russian Market is the go-to place for an authentic taste of Cambodian street food. Dive into the chaos and find yourself sampling a variety of dishes, from the spicy to the sublime. Don’t miss out on the nom banh chok, a traditional Khmer rice noodle dish, and be sure to save room for some sweet, sticky rice desserts.
Orussey Market
Orussey Market is where the locals shop, and it’s a true gem for those looking to experience the everyday flavors of Cambodia. The market is renowned for its wide selection of local snacks, like deep-fried tarantulas and crispy crickets for the adventurous eater or the more conventional rice cakes and fruit shakes for those with a gentler palate.
Street 240 and Street 19
For a more upscale street food experience, wander over to Street 240 and 19. These areas are known for their chic eateries and fusion food stalls, offering a modern twist on traditional Cambodian cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for a gourmet burger with a Khmer twist or a refreshing glass of sugarcane juice, these streets provide a gastronomic adventure that’s sure to please.
>> Read More: 15 Incredible Things To Do In Phnom Penh For First-timers
8 Best Street Food Dishes in Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, is renowned for its diverse and delectable cuisine, which can be found along the streets.
Nom Banh Chok (Khmer Noodles)
- Where to eat: Orussey Market, Phnom Penh
The tasty noodles of Khmer cuisine (Source: Collected)
It’s common to see locals enjoying Nom Banh Chok, Cambodia’s national dish, at any time of the day. These fermented rice noodles are a marvel of craftsmanship. They are traditionally handmade and served with a fragrant fish curry sauce seasoned with lemongrass, turmeric root, and a variety of herbs like basil and mint.
For a truly local experience, head to Orussey Market, where the food court buzzes with vendors offering this quintessential Cambodian breakfast or brunch delight.
Bai Sach Chrouk (Pork and Rice)
- Where to eat: Street 19, Phnom Penh
A staple breakfast dish, Bai Sach Chrouk combines succulent pork with rice, a simple yet irresistible pairing. In the evenings, Street 19 comes alive with the aroma of the Pork and Rice Man’s marinated pork. His stall becomes a hub for those craving this beloved dish, and it’s worth seeking out additional options along Streets 13 and 100.
Lort Cha (Cambodian Stir-Fried Pin Noodles)
- Where to eat:
- Sok Leng Lort Cha: 18 Preah Ang Makhak Vann St.
- Khmer Noodles Restaurant: 2 Samdach Phuong St.
- Boat Noodles Restaurant: Sothearos Blvd
A simple dish made with chewy pin noodles (Source: Collected)
Lort Cha is a comfort food favorite featuring short, chubby rice noodles stir-fried with greens, bean sprouts, and eggs. A savory, soy-based sauce ties all the ingredients together, creating a dish that’s full of flavor and texture. It’s a common street-side spectacle to watch the noodles being tossed over high flames.
Chek Chien (Fried Bananas)
- Where to eat: Phnom Penh markets
A sweet treat that doubles as a dessert or snack, Chek Chien (Fried Bananas) is a must-try. These banana nuggets, coated in a crispy batter with sesame seeds, are deep-fried to golden perfection. Often paired with creamy vanilla or uniquely Cambodian Kampot pepper ice cream, you can find the best iterations of this dish on Street 9.
Kralan (Sticky Bamboo Rice)
- Where to eat: Phnom Penh streets
For those seeking vegetarian options, Kralan (Sticky Bamboo Rice) is a delightful find. A mix of sticky rice, beans, grated coconut, and coconut milk is packed into bamboo tubes and then roasted. This creates a snack that’s crispy on the outside yet wonderfully sticky and aromatic on the inside.
Nompang Sak Koh (Grilled Beef Baguette)
- Where to eat: Street 380, Phnom Penh
Grilled beef skewer with pickled veggies, fresh herbs, and spicy chili (Source: Collected)
The legacy of French colonial influence is evident in the Nompang Sak Koh, a sandwich that fuses local flavors with the classic baguette. Stuffed with meatball gravy, barbecued beef, pickled vegetables, lemongrass, and a spicy green chili sauce, this snack is a flavorful journey. Phsar Chas, or the Old Market, is the ideal spot to indulge in this Franco-Cambodian fusion.
Twa Ko (Cambodian Sausage)
- Where to eat: Phnom Penh markets
Hanging from market stalls, Twa Ko (Cambodian Sausage) is a sweet and savory treat made from a mixture of pork and fat, seasoned with palm sugar. The sweetness, combined with the sausage’s red hue and juicy texture, makes for an irresistible street food option.
Kang Kep Baob (Stuffed Frog)
- Where to eat: Phnom Penh markets
Certainly not for the faint of heart, Kang Kep Baob (Stuffed Frog) is as intriguing as it is tasty. The frogs are filled with a mixture of chopped frog meat, pork, coconut, peanuts, saffron, and citronella. After basking in the sun, they are grilled or fried, offering a dish with a rich aroma and tender insides that are truly emblematic of Cambodian culinary audacity.
Discover Phnom Penh Through Its Cuisine
Each dish of street food in Phnom Penh tells a story of tradition, innovation, and the vibrant spirit of Cambodia. From the aromatic bowls of Nom Banh Chok in the morning to the sizzling Lort Cha in the evening, the city’s streets offer an endless array of flavors to discover. We encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and sample these local specialties; each bite tantalizes the taste buds and also connects you to the rich cultural fabric of Phnom Penh. The city’s street food scene is a testament to its welcoming heart and the profound joy that good food can bring.
Craving an authentic taste of Cambodian cuisine? Book your trip with Asia Pioneer Travel now, and let us guide you to the heart of Phnom Penh’s street food scene, from iconic dishes to hidden culinary treasures.
