Welcome to Cambodia, a land of rich history, stunning landscapes, and—most importantly—delicious food! If you love to eat as well as explore and experience new cultures, Cambodia is the perfect place to visit. We’ll start in Phnom Penh, travel down to the coast, head inland to Kampot, then journey up to Battambang and Angkor Wat. Along the way, we’ll discover the best dishes, cooking classes, and foodie experiences Cambodia has to offer.
Cambodian Cuisine: A Blend of Tradition and Influence
Cambodian cuisine, also known as Khmer cuisine, is deeply rooted in the country’s history and geography. Many traditional dishes date back to the Angkor Empire, when rice and freshwater fish from the Mekong River were staples of the local diet. Key ingredients include lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, kaffir lime leaves, and prahok (a fermented fish paste that adds umami depth). Cambodian food is known for its balanced flavors—sweet, sour, salty, and bitter—all working together in harmony.
The modern cuisine has been influenced by neighboring Thailand and Vietnam, as well as by French colonization. Unlike Thai food, Cambodian dishes are generally milder, with less emphasis on chili heat and more focus on aromatic herbs and spices. Vietnamese influence can be seen in dishes like Nom Pang, a baguette sandwich similar to the Vietnamese Banh Mi. French influence is also apparent in Cambodia’s love for bread, coffee, and creamy desserts like flan.
What sets Cambodian food apart is its use of native ingredients, such as palm sugar, morning glory (water spinach), and kampot pepper—one of the world’s finest pepper varieties. Rice is a central element in almost every meal, often served alongside fresh vegetables, grilled meats, and tangy dipping sauces. While similar to other Southeast Asian cuisines, Cambodian food stands out for its unique blend of flavors, fresh produce, and centuries-old cooking traditions.
Stop 1: Phnom Penh – A Feast in the Capital of Cambodia
Phnom Penh is a great place to start your journey. The city is busy, but don’t worry—we’re here for the food! Head to Central Market or Russian Market for a taste of authentic Cambodian street food. Try:
- Bai Sach Chrouk – Grilled pork served over rice with pickled vegetables. A perfect breakfast!
- Num Banh Chok – A fresh and flavorful rice noodle soup with fish curry.
- Amok Trey – A rich, creamy fish curry steamed in banana leaves.
For a hands-on experience, take a cooking class at La Table Khmère or Banana Restaurant. You’ll learn how to make authentic Khmer dishes yourself, and the classes include a market tour with a professional Khmer Chef!
If you’d rather not cook your meal, Bopha Phnom Penh Titanic Restaurant offers an ideal location overlooking the Mekong river and serves a wide variety of local as well as international dishes. The restaurants charming Khmer decor compliments not only the food but also the traditional music and dance entertainment that makes for a memorable evening.
Beyond food, Phnom Penh offers fascinating sights. Visit the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, both showcasing stunning Khmer architecture. The National Museum of Cambodia is a must for history lovers, with its impressive collection of Angkorian artifacts. Getting around is easy, and the city’s new international airport (opening in early 2025) makes arrivals and departures smooth and hassle-free.
Stop 2: Kampot – Pepper, Crabs, and Relaxation
Next, we head to the charming riverside town of Kampot. This place is famous for its Kampot pepper, one of the world’s best! Visit a pepper farm like La Plantation to see how it’s grown and taste the different varieties. La Plantation is a socially responsible agrotourism site offering tours and tastings for every budget. Be sure to taste the Kampot pepper ice cream during your visit!
Kampot is also home to charming colonial architecture, lively night markets, and the stunning Bokor National Park, where you can visit an abandoned French hill station with breathtaking views.
Food highlights in Kampot include:
- Kampot Pepper Crab – Fresh crab cooked in fragrant Kampot pepper sauce. Try it at Kep Crab Market!
- Lok Lak – Stir-fried beef with a tangy dipping sauce, served with rice and a fried egg.
- Durian – This pungent fruit is a local favorite! Try it if you dare.
Not to be missed is a sunset boat cruise on the Kampot River. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and a great way to unwind. For a great meal, stop by Rikitikitavi, a riverside restaurant known for its excellent Khmer cuisine and cocktails, or Epic Arts Café, which serves delicious meals while supporting a social enterprise for disabled artists.
Stop 3: Battambang – Culinary Traditions and Rice Fields
Battambang is a foodie paradise, known for its fresh produce and traditional cooking methods. The town is rich in history, with French colonial architecture and a strong arts scene. It was once a major rice-producing hub during the French colonial era, and its agricultural heritage still thrives today. A visit to Phare Ponleu Selpak, a local arts school, is a must. Then, explore Ek Phnom Market for local snacks like:
- Prahok Ktis – A dip made from fermented fish, coconut milk, and pork.
- Banana Blossom Salad – Crunchy, fresh, and packed with flavor.
For a deeper dive, take a cooking class at Nary Kitchen. The friendly instructors will teach you how to cook Cambodian specialties from scratch.
Or you can embrace your sense of adventure with a bike tour! Tour companies like Soksabike, offer “livelihood” tours where you can experience and taste rural Cambodian life on the outskirts of Battambang. You’ll bike along shaded routes and visit with Cambodian families who produce traditional products (such as rice paper, dried bananas, and bamboo sticky rice) made in the same way they have been for generations. Tuk-tuks can be arranged for those who have limited biking abilities!
Other must-see attractions in Battambang include the Old Bamboo Train, a fun and unique way to experience the countryside, and the Bat Caves at Phnom Sampeau, where thousands of bats take flight at sunset. For a great meal, try Jaan Bai, a social enterprise restaurant that serves delicious Khmer cuisine while supporting local youth training programs.
Stop 4: Siem Reap and Angkor Wat – Food and History Collide
Siem Reap is the gateway to Angkor Wat and offers a lively blend of history, culture, and fantastic food. The town has a vibrant night market, where you can sample Khmer street food and shop for souvenirs. Don’t miss Pub Street, a lively area filled with great restaurants and cafés. For an authentic meal, try Genevieve’s Restaurant, known for its delicious Khmer dishes and welcoming atmosphere, or Marum, a social enterprise eatery that trains young Cambodians in hospitality.
Angkor Wat is best experienced at sunrise when the temple is bathed in golden light. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. After sunrise, explore the nearby temples of Bayon, famous for its giant stone faces and troops of monkeys as well as Ta Prohm, where ancient trees intertwine with ruins. Hiring a tuk-tuk driver for the day is the best way to get around. They know the best routes and can help you avoid the crowds while providing interesting local insights.
After a long day of temple hopping, unwind at Haven, a restaurant that supports young apprentices while serving delicious Khmer fusion cuisine. Or try Spoon’s Cafe and Restaurant, a social enterprise organization that trains students in culinary and hospitality skills. The menu aims to capture the tastes and techniques from all 24 provinces of Cambodia. It’s the perfect ending to a food tour of Cambodia! Conclude your evening with a relaxing Apsara dance performance at one of Siem Reap’s cultural centers.
Why Visit Cambodia?
Cambodia is budget-friendly, full of friendly people, and offers a mix of history, nature, and food. Whether you’re savoring a bowl of noodles in Phnom Penh, cracking into fresh crab in Kampot, or learning to cook in Battambang, there’s always something new to try.
With the exception of Angkor Wat, tourists are just finding Cambodia. This means fewer crowds and better prices. For seniors in particular, the country offers a mix of relaxation and adventure. Most hotels will offer professional massage treatments as well as a pool and rooftop bar. Nothing better when traveling than an afternoon massage and cocktail by the pool. Best of all, the cost in Cambodia is very retiree-friendly!
Though Cambodia has a difficult past, particularly during the Khmer Rouge era in the 1970s, this period was relatively short in the country’s long history. Sites like the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum serve as reminders of resilience and hope. Today, Cambodia is moving forward, welcoming visitors with open arms. Seniors and retirees will find a warm, friendly atmosphere, breathtaking sights, and a cuisine that tells the story of its rich culture. Pack your appetite and sense of adventure—your Cambodian food journey awaits!
If self- organizing and planning a trip to Cambodia is too overwhelming, consider joining a tour. Look for tour groups that specialize in senior travel and offer plenty of free time for exploring on your own. For active seniors, Intrepids offers “Real Food Adventures” in Cambodia and beyond.
