When you’re travelling, there’s nothing quite like ending your day with a plate full of local delights, especially in a country as vibrant and flavourful as Cambodia. You might even fancy treating yourself to a spot of fine dining here and there – well, it is a holiday after all!
Now, imagine sitting down to a meal that doesn’t just satisfy your taste buds, but also serves up a spoonful of opportunity for the local community. Sounds enriching, doesn’t it? Well, Cambodia’s culinary scene is peppered with gems like this; dining spots that not only dish-out mouthwatering meals but also make a world of difference too.
Here are some of our favourite amazing restaurants in Cambodia, with purpose at their heart.
1. HAVEN, Siem Reap
The name says it all. Haven is a safe, peaceful spot in a beautiful setting, away from the busy city centre. Deserving of an applause, this place is a great cause disguised as a great restaurant. Everything they do here, from their carefully selected ingredients and environmental initiatives, to their social responsibilities, is based on compassion and sustainability.
HAVEN is a training ground for young adults from challenging backgrounds, teaching them skills for a better future. Dining here, whether in their tropical garden or a traditional Khmer setting, directly supports these efforts. Their menu is a tantalising blend of Asian and international favourites (but, trust us, you really can’t go wrong with the fried Kampot pepper squid!)
2. NEW LEAF EATERY, Siem Reap
Nestled in the centre of Siem Reap, New Leaf Eatery offers a serene retreat from the lively atmosphere of Cambodia’s famous Pub Street. It’s not just about the food here though (which, by the way, offers an incredible “taste” of Cambodia). It’s also about giving something back to the community.
New Leaf is awesome because it channels its profits into education projects in Siem Reap. So far, it’s generously provided more than $57,000 and 2,000 books in donations. How brilliant is that?
From its eco-friendly practices to its commitment to its staff’s well-being, this place definitely sets a high bar for social enterprises. Dining here means you’re part of something much bigger, and that’s pretty cool isn’t it?
3. SPOONS Cambodia, Siem Reap
Spoons isn’t just a café; it’s a statement—a statement that delicious, authentic Cambodian cuisine can go hand-in-hand with social responsibility. This is a culinary school of sorts, where profits flow back into empowering their students. And the menu? A delightful journey through Cambodia’s foodie landscape. Traditional dishes are the standouts, with an amazing Lotus and Shrimp salad (a personal fave), along with an excellent fish amok.
Oh, and if you’re into eco-design, get a load of their bamboo restaurant! They’ve taken bamboo architecture to a whole new level, serving as a model for environmentally conscious construction. Plus, y’know, it looks really special too – win, win!
4. LUM Orng, Siem Reap
Welcome to Cambodia’s first farm-to-table restaurant, where the journey of your meal starts from the farm and ends on your plate with a burst of flavours. The term ‘Lum Orng’ translates to ‘pollen’ in Khmer, symbolising a particle that fertilises and breathes life into nature. For Chef Sothea Seng, who’s dedicated approach is all about utilising seasonal and sustainable practices, LUM Orng represents the idea of growth and renewal.
The restaurant itself is the definition of a hidden gem – tucked away on a long dirt road, the setting is beautiful, not too far from downtown, and well worth the trek. It’s the perfect spot to indulge in a little high end dining, with a team who know food and hospitality very well.
5. Chef Nak, Phnom Penh
Ready to Indulge in the ultimate luxury dining experience? We’ve know just the place. Chef Ros Rotanak, better known as Chef Nak, is not just Cambodia’s first female celebrity chef; she’s a culinary ambassador with a mission to showcase authentic Cambodian cuisine to the world. Her exclusive dining experiences are a blend of tradition, innovation, and storytelling, set against the backdrop of her charming wooden homestay by the Mekong.
Here, food is more than just sustenance; it’s a bridge between cultures, a testament to Cambodia’s rich culinary heritage. Guests can savour exceptional home-cooked meals, learn about the origins of the ingredients and dishes, all while being serenaded by local musicians playing traditional instruments. Such ambiance!
6. Atelier – Kampot
This is Atelier – a restaurant, a boutique, and an ode to Kampot pepper (a local treasure!) Grown in the lush foothills, this pepper is so special it’s got its own protected status. Chefs love it, and once you try it, you’ll get why it’s such a big deal.
Founded by two French-Cambodian brothers, this place serves up exquisite interpretations of traditional dishes with a peppery twist, all set in a beautifully-restored 1945 Chinese shop house on the riverside.
These guys are all about using ingredients that are meant to mature slowly, reflecting a respect for the craft and the environment. The restaurant mixes up classic French bistro vibes with a fresh twist on traditional Asian recipes and leans into using locally sourced ingredients. The chefs here experiment with the unique flavours of different peppers to give each dish a special kick – we recommend the Kampot pepper & lime marinated chicken skewers. Yum! Oh, and definitely start with the Kampot sour cocktail!
And there you have it—a sneak peek into the vibrant and soulful culinary landscape of Cambodia. Interested in exploring these flavours first-hand? We’d be happy to weave these dining experiences into your Cambodia journey! Reach out to us, and let’s kickstart your foodie adventure.
Bon appétit!