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5 Best Cambodian Street Food Guide

Street food in Cambodia

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Best Street Cambodian Street Food

 

Are you planning a trip to Cambodia and wondering what the best Cambodian street food is? What is Cambodian cuisine? How much it costs? Where to find it!? Cambodia offers some of the best street food in Southeast Asia, with a wide variety of delicious options available at affordable prices. Here is a list of the best Cambodian street food you must try when visiting Cambodia, including Phnom Penh.

Travel Cambodia Cambodian Street Food Lunch

Best Time to Visit Cambodia

The best time to visit Cambodia is during the peak season, which spans from November to February. This period offers cooler and drier weather with temperatures between 21°C to 30°C (69°F to 86°F), ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the country’s top attractions.

Before you set foot in Phnom Penh, we’ve put together a pre-checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared for your upcoming journey.

When traveling to Cambodia we do recommend purchasing a SIM card if you don’t have a roam-like home service with your cellular plan. To ensure we had reliable connectivity during our Cambodia trip we purchased a reliable SIM card.

Where to Purchase a SIM Card In the Phnom Penh:
The best place to purchase a SIM card in Phnom Penh is to visit a Cellcard phone store in the city. We found it super easy to top-up our phones using a credit card and by downloading the mobile app, it works like a pre-paid card.

Travel Requirements for Cambodia:

You can obtain a 30-day tourist visa for $30 USD upon arrival or apply for an e-visa in advance. You can extend it for two more 30-day periods for an extra fee. Proof of vaccination or test results are not required for entry.

We always recommend seeking advice for vaccinations for Cambodia on the CDC website, and/or visiting a travel medical clinic before traveling to a destination.

Disclaimer: The information shared regarding travel vaccines is based on our experiences and research and should not replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional. For personalized vaccine information and guidance, please consult with a medical expert such as a travel clinic.

Outlet plugs, and adapters to get: The power plugs in Cambodia typically use Type A, Type C, or Type G sockets, with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. It’s advisable to carry a universal adapter to ensure compatibility with these outlets.

Before traveling, it’s crucial to have travel & medical insurance coverage whenever you’re traveling abroad to another country. We always recommend checking your credit card’s insurance policies to understand the coverage and duration of your insurance. Most travel credit cards have coverage between 14-30 days on the high-end. Therefore, depending on the coverage type and duration of your trip, purchasing travel insurance that supplements these policies, is recommended to provide you with peace of mind and financial security, to ensure your trip is worry-free.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first adventure, we’ve handpicked a selection of must-have travel items that will make your journeys smoother and more enjoyable. From packing hacks to smart gadgets, these essential travel items have helped us organize better and maintain a stress-free travel experience while saving us time!

Where to Stay in Phnom Penh

In the heart of Cambodia’s vibrant capital, Phnom Penh, finding the perfect place to stay is so important to your overall travel experience. We’ll unveil the city’s best neighborhoods to stay in, offering insights on accommodations ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious hotels, ensuring you find the ideal stay to suit your preferences and budget.

Offering picturesque river views and a lovely atmosphere, Riverside is a top choice because of its proximity to major attractions like the Royal Palace and National Museum. It’s a vibrant area with plenty of dining and entertainment options.

Budget: Villa Grange

A budget-friendly choice, Villa Grange offers comfortable accommodations in a charming setting, conveniently located near the riverside and key city attractions.

Mid-Tier: Amanjaya Pancam Suites Hotel

This hotel combines modern comfort with Khmer architectural elements. Its central riverside location and well-appointed rooms make it a top choice for mid-range travelers.

Luxury: Raffles Hotel Le Royal

This is an iconic luxury hotel in Phnom Penh. Raffles Hotel Le Royal stands out for its colonial-era elegance, lush gardens, and exceptional dining. It’s a top-notch choice for those seeking the ultimate luxury experience in the Riverside area.

Known for its upscale ambiance, BKK1 is a favorite among travelers seeking a more luxurious stay. It’s packed with boutique hotels, high-end restaurants, and trendy cafes, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a sophisticated environment.

Budget: Onederz Cambodia

Onederz Cambodia offers budget travelers a comfortable and stylish stay in the heart of BKK1. With modern amenities and a social atmosphere, it’s a top choice for those on a budget.

Mid-Tier: The Pavilion

This charming boutique hotel in BKK1 provides an oasis of tranquility in the city. With beautifully landscaped gardens and well-appointed rooms, it’s a popular mid-tier option.

Luxury: The Balé Phnom Penh

 The Balé Phnom Penh is a luxurious riverside retreat in BKK1, offering spacious villas with private pools, impeccable service, and a serene ambiance for those seeking the ultimate luxury experience in the area.

 

5 Best Cambodian Street Food Guide

1. Lort Cha (Fried Rice Pin Noodles) – Cambodian Street Food  

 

The first street food in Cambodia is Stir-fried Rice Pin Noodles with a fried over-easy egg on top and beef. The sauce includes a dark soy, oyster sauce which gives it a very nice savory and sweetness garnished with bean sprouts and greens. My favorite Cambodian street food noodle dish.

Price: $1.50 USD or 6,000 riels
Where I Ate it: Russian Market (Tuol Tompoung Market), Phnom Penh, Cambodia

 

See our blog post on: What Currencies Does Cambodia Use?

 

cambodian street food (stir fry noodles)

 

 

2. Sach Ko Ang (BBQ Beef Skewers)-Cambodian Street Food

 

BBQ grilled lemongrass beef skewers are one of the best flavor combinations I’ve tasted in Cambodia and a popular snack on its own or have it for dinner with some rice. The flavor of meat has this sweetness and delicious lemongrass flavor. It comes with pickled young papaya and carrot to be eaten together with the skewer, delicious!

 

Price: $.50 USD or 2,000 riels (per skewer).
Where I Ate It: Russian Market (Tuol Tompoung Market), Phnom Penh, Cambodia

 

cambodian street food (sach ko ang)

 

3. Noum Krouk (Rice Coconut Savory Cake)-Cambodian Street Food

 

Made with coconut milk, rice flour, and scallions then cooked in a hot clay pot. These beautiful pancakes are crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, and spherical. It comes with a sauce made from coconut milk and fish sauce. You can add chili sauce if you like it spicy.

 

Price: $0.12 USD or 500 riels (Each Noum Krouk Cake)
Where I Ate It: Dumex Market, Phnom Penh Cambodia

 

Check out this video on Tiktok where I try this delicious street food in Cambodia, Noum Krouk!

 

Cambodian Street Food (Noum Krouk)

 

 4. Num Kachay (Garlic & Chive Rice Cake)-Cambodian Street Food

 

This is made using rice flour and chives as the main components that make up the dough which is then fried in a pan. It’s served with sweet fish sauce (almost like sweet and sour sauce in North America but with a more liquid consistency.

Price $0.25 USD or 1,000 riels (Each)
Where I Ate It: Orussey Market, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

 

Cambodian Street Food- (Num Kachay)

 

5. Khmer Style BBQ Squid-Cambodian Street Food

 

Cambodian grilled squid is huge from what I’m used to seeing! Nicely charred over the charcoal grill, chopped up, and served with this aromatic herb sauce with garlic and green onions. It’s served with hot chili sauce and lime pepper sauce for dipping.

 

Price: $10.95 USD or 45,000 riels
Where I Ate it: Central Market (Phsar Thmei), Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Watch this Street Food in Cambodia video where I eat delicious BBQ squid!

 

@hungrypursuit Eating a SQUID!! Central Market Edition Cambodia 🦑 #centralmarket #phnompenhcity #foodie #traveleats #streetfood #travelcambodia #foodblog ♬ original sound – HungryPursuit | Food & Travel

History of Cambodian Street Food:

Street food vendors in Cambodia are the heart and soul of the city, loved by many locals and visitors providing delicious cultural foods for an affordable price. Many students in Cambodia start school very early in the morning and it’s quick and convenient to grab a quick bite to eat from a vendor.

 

Is it safe to eat street food in Cambodia? Follow the link to learn more about what to know before eating street food in Cambodia and what to look out for when choosing vendors.

 

 

 

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Thoughts

Cambodia is home to some of the best street food in Southeast Asia. Eating Cambodian street food in Phnom Penh is a great experience with many delicious options. It’s cheap, and it can be overwhelming with a large variety of street food to choose from. Many different food markets are serving up an abundance of Cambodian cuisine. After spending months in Cambodia and eating a lot of Cambodian street food, I compiled this list of the top 5 best Cambodian street foods you have to try. You will be surprised how cheap it can be without sacrificing the quality of the food, and some of the best food in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

 

So there it is! My picks for the best street food in Cambodia. I honestly fell in love with street food in Cambodia once I found these amazing gems. It can be intimidating at first but I promise you the local Cambodian people are some of the kindest people I’ve ever met. This country has so much to offer and I hope you get a chance to experience it!

FAQs
What Food Is Cambodia Known For?

 

Cambodia is known for its diverse range of foods and many Cambodian street food options. Cambodian cuisine often incorporates fresh herbs, spices, and local ingredients. Some signature dishes other than Cambodian street food above include:

 

1. Amok: A traditional Cambodian dish made with white fish, chicken, or beef, cooked in a fragrant combination of coconut milk and curry paste mixture, then steamed in banana leaves. This dish is known to be Cambodia’s national dish and probably my favorite traditional dish to order at restaurants.

 

2. Fish Curry: Cambodia’s recipe for curry often includes fish or seafood, flavored with fresh herbs like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal. While it’s a favorite of many, if you don’t like a pungent fish flavor it may not be for you!

 

3. Bai Sach Chrouk: Grilled pork served over rice with pickled vegetables and a side of broth. It’s a common breakfast dish in Cambodia.

 

4. Lok Lak: Stir-fried beef marinated in a flavorful sauce, typically served with rice, fresh vegetables, and a dipping sauce made from lime and black pepper. The lime and black pepper dipping sauce honestly is the perfect combination with the seared meat!

 

5. Num Banh Chok: A traditional breakfast dish consisting of rice noodles topped with fish-based green curry gravy and fresh vegetables. We didn’t find this particularly spicy at all in comparison to some curry dishes around the world.

 

6. Kuy Teav: A noodle soup often served as a breakfast dish, made with pork or beef broth, rice noodles, and topped with herbs, bean sprouts, and occasionally, fried garlic. A cheap and affordable dish we commonly ate in the mornings!

 

7. Prahok: A pungent fermented fish paste used as a condiment or as an ingredient in various dishes, adding a unique umami flavor to Cambodian cuisine. I know many aren’t a fan of this one however, I loved it!

 

8. Trey Aing: Grilled fish, usually marinated with spices and served with a tangy dipping sauce made from lime, garlic, and chili.

These are just a few examples of Cambodian cuisine and additional dishes we recommend that you try. Cambodian cooking often reflects the country’s agricultural abundance and cultural influences from neighboring countries, resulting in many flavors and textures. We loved the combination and use of limes and chilies in the Cambodian dipping sauces paired nicely with a variety of meat and rice dishes.

 

Is Cambodian food similar to Thai?


Cambodian food shares some similarities with Thai food, however, there are also distinct differences between the two cuisines. Here is a comparison:

1. Flavors: Both cuisines use a balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. However, the specific combinations and intensity of ingredients used can vary. Thai food is often spicier and tends to present bolder flavors. In comparison, Cambodian cuisine may lean towards more subtle spiciness and delicate flavor profiles.

 

2. Ingredients: Both cuisines use fresh herbs, spices, and local ingredients such as lemongrass, galangal, coconut milk, and chili peppers. However, Cambodian dishes generally use fewer spices overall compared to Thai cuisine. This allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through and provide balance.

 

3. Curries: Both Cambodian and Thai cuisines make curries, but there are differences in the preparation and flavor profiles. Thai curries are often thicker and creamier, made with a base of coconut milk and a variety of curry pastes. Cambodian curries may be lighter and more soupy, often including a broader range of herbs and aromatics.

 

4. Noodle Dishes: Noodle dishes are popular in both cuisines, but there are differences in the types of noodles used and the ingredients. For example, Thai cuisine is known for dishes like Pad Thai and Drunken Noodles, which use rice noodles. Cambodian dishes like Num Banh Chok, are made with fermented rice noodles, and Kuy Teav, with fresh rice noodles.

 

5. Use of Fish Paste: Both cuisines love to use fish sauce as a common seasoning! However, Cambodian cuisine often incorporates prahok, a pungent fermented fish paste, more prominently than Thai cuisine. Prahok adds a unique depth of salty and fish flavor to many Cambodian dishes.

 

While there are similarities between Cambodian and Thai cuisines, each has its distinct characteristics and flavor profiles. South East Asian cooking in general is influenced by many factors such as geography, history, and cultural traditions.

 

What is Kha Cambodian food?

 

“Kha” in Cambodian cooking typically refers to rice porridge or rice congee. It is a soothing and nourishing dish made by boiling rice in a large amount of water until it breaks down into a smooth, porridge-like consistency. Kha is either served plain or flavored with various ingredients such as meat, fish, vegetables, herbs, and spices.

 

My personal preference is with some protein and soy sauce for additional flavor! In its simplest form, kha is often served as a breakfast dish or often eaten by those who are sick. However, it can also be elevated into a more refined dish by adding toppings. Common toppings for kha include shredded chicken or pork, minced meatballs, vegetables, scallions, and fried garlic. This Cambodian dish is finished off with a drizzle of soy sauce or fish sauce for added flavor.

 

Kha is enjoyed by many for its taste but is also valued for its ability to be easily digestible and comforting. This makes it a popular choice for people of all ages and occasions.

 

What is a traditional Cambodian breakfast?

 

A traditional Cambodian breakfast often includes many dishes that reflect the country’s culinary heritage and cultural influences. Some of the common breakfast items in Cambodia, some of which are Cambodian street food include:

 

1. Bai Sach Chrouk: Grilled pork served on top of rice with pickled vegetables and a side bowl of broth. This is one of the most consumed breakfast dishes in Cambodia, known for its savory flavors and combination of textures.

 

2. Num Banh Chok: Rice noodles topped with a fish-based green curry sauce and vegetables. This dish is commonly served with a side of fresh herbs and vegetables for added freshness and texture.

 

3. Kuy Teav: A noodle soup made with either pork or beef broth, and thin rice noodles. It’s often topped with thinly sliced meat, bean sprouts, green onions, and fried garlic. Kuy Teav is a comforting and filling breakfast option, perfect for starting the day.

 

4. Bai Cha: A dish of fried rice served with various accompaniments such as fried eggs, Chinese sausage, pickled vegetables, and sliced cucumbers. Bai Cha is a flavorful breakfast choice that provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and vegetables.

 

5. Num Krok: One of my favorite Cambodian street foods noted above. Coconut rice pancakes are cooked in a special pan with round indentations. Once cooked, resulting in small, bite-sized pancakes with a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. Num Krok is often served with a sweet dipping sauce made from palm sugar, coconut milk, and sometimes chilis!

 

These are just a few examples of traditional Cambodian breakfast dishes. However, there are many other specialties around Cambodia to explore. Cambodian breakfasts tend to be hearty, flavorful, light, and balanced, providing a satisfying start to the day.

 

What is Cambodia Street Food Price?

 

The prices of Cambodian street food can vary depending on the dish, location, and vendor. Generally, street food in Cambodia is known for being affordable, making it accessible to both locals and travelers. Here are some approximate price ranges for popular Cambodian street food items:

 

  1. Banh Chao (Cambodian Crepe): $1-2 USD
  2. Nom Krok (Coconut Rice Pancakes): $0.50-1 USD
  3. Num Pang (Cambodian Sandwich): $1-2 USD
  4. Skewered Grilled Meat (e.g., Beef, Chicken): $0.50-1 USD per skewer
  5. Fried Noodles or Rice Dishes: $1-2 USD
  6. Fruit Shakes or Smoothies: $1-2 USD
  7. Fried Insects (e.g., Crickets, Grasshoppers): $0.50-1 USD per serving
  8. Fresh Fruit: Prices vary depending on the type of fruit and season, but generally $0.50-1 USD per serving.

 

It’s important to note that these prices are approximate and can vary depending on factors such as location (urban vs. rural areas, tourist hotspots vs. local markets), portion size, and ingredients used. Overall, Cambodian street food offers excellent value for money and is a great way to experience the local culinary scene while on a budget.

 

What is Cambodian Vegetarian Food?

 

Yes, Cambodian vegetarian food does exist, although it may not be as prevalent as dishes that include meat or fish. Cambodian cuisine traditionally incorporates a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices, making it possible to enjoy delicious vegetarian meals.

 

Here are some examples of Cambodian vegetarian dishes:

 

1. Lort Cha: A stir-fried noodle dish made with wide rice noodles, mixed vegetables, tofu, and sometimes egg, seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and other spices.

 

2. Bai Chha: Stir-fried mixed vegetables seasoned with garlic, soy sauce, and sometimes a touch of sugar, served with rice.

 

3. Num Banh Chok Chrouk: Rice noodles served with a flavorful green curry sauce made from lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and other herbs, typically accompanied by fresh vegetables.

 

4. Ang Dtray-Meuk Chha Khnheay: Stir-fried baby corn with mixed vegetables and tofu, seasoned with soy sauce and garlic.

 

5. Samlor Kork: A Cambodian vegetable soup made with a variety of seasonal vegetables, flavored with herbs and spices, and sometimes enriched with coconut milk.

 

6. Nom Banh Chok: Rice noodles served with a tangy sauce made from coconut milk, turmeric, and lemongrass, topped with fresh herbs and vegetables.

 

7. Tofu Amok: A vegetarian version of the traditional Cambodian dish, Amok, made with tofu instead of fish or meat, cooked in a rich coconut curry sauce and steamed in banana leaves.

 

These are just a few examples, but there are many more vegetarian options available in Cambodian cuisine. Additionally, many Cambodian restaurants and street food vendors are willing to accommodate dietary preferences, so it’s often possible to request vegetarian versions of dishes that would typically contain meat or fish.

 

What time do street food vendors open?

 

Street food vendors in Cambodia typically start setting up their stalls in the late afternoon or early evening, around 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. This is when you’ll find many vendors preparing their ingredients, setting up their cooking stations, and getting ready for the evening rush.

 

However, the exact opening times can vary depending on the location and the specific vendor. In some busy areas or popular street food markets, vendors may start operating earlier, while in quieter neighborhoods, they might open a bit later.

 

Once set up, street food stalls generally remain open until late at night, often past midnight or even into the early hours of the morning, catering to locals and tourists alike who are looking for a quick and tasty meal.

 

In addition to the evening hours, some street food vendors in Cambodia also operate during the morning, particularly around markets and busy street corners. Morning street food stalls often cater to early risers looking for a quick and satisfying breakfast before starting their day.

 

Many local markets in Cambodia, such as Psar Chas (Old Market) in Siem Reap or Psar Thmey (Central Market) in Phnom Penh, are bustling hubs of activity throughout the day, including in the morning. Around these markets, you can often find street food vendors serving up a variety of breakfast options, including noodle soups, rice dishes, and freshly made snacks.

 

The morning street food scene typically starts to pick up around sunrise, as vendors begin to set up their stalls and prepare for the day ahead. Depending on the location and the market’s operating hours, you may find street food stalls open as early as 6:00 AM or even earlier in some cases.

 

Exploring the streets around local markets in the morning can provide a unique opportunity to sample authentic Cambodian breakfast and experience the lively atmosphere of the country’s street food culture. From savory noodle soups to sweet treats like coconut pancakes, there’s no shortage of delicious options to start your day off right.

 

 

Is street food in Cambodia safe?

 

Like street food in many other countries, Cambodian street food can be safe if certain precautions are taken. While street food vendors often offer delicious and authentic culinary experiences, there are some risks associated with eating street food anywhere in the world, including potential foodborne illnesses.

 

Here are some tips to help ensure the safety of Cambodian street food:

 

1. Choose Clean and Busy Stalls: Look for vendors who appear to maintain cleanliness and hygiene in their food preparation area. Busy stalls with a high turnover of customers often indicate fresher food.

 

2. Watch the Food Handling: Pay attention to how the food is handled and cooked. Make sure that ingredients are kept covered and protected from dust and flies. Food should be cooked thoroughly and served hot.

 

3. Go for Freshly Cooked Food: Opt for dishes that are cooked to order and served piping hot. Avoid pre-cooked food that has been sitting out at room temperature for an extended period.

 

4. Avoid Raw or Undercooked Food: Minimize your risk of foodborne illness by avoiding raw or undercooked meat, seafood, and eggs.

 

5. Peel Your Fruits and Vegetables: If you’re buying fresh fruits or vegetables from street vendors, consider peeling them yourself to reduce the risk of contamination.

 

6. Use Clean Utensils and Plates: Ensure that utensils and plates are clean before eating. If possible, bring your own utensils or use disposable ones provided by the vendor.

 

7. Drink Bottled Water: Stick to bottled or boiled water to avoid the risk of waterborne illnesses. Avoid ice cubes unless you’re certain they were made from purified water.

 

8. Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn’t look or smell right, it’s best to err on the side of caution and choose another option.

 

By following these guidelines and using common sense, you can enjoy the unique flavors of Cambodian street food while reducing the risk of foodborne illness. Remember that while street food can be safe, there is always some level of risk associated with eating food prepared in open-air environments.

 

 

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