Best Dining Experiences in Phnom Penh
Since the economic boom in 2007, Phnom Penh has evolved into a cosmopolitan culinary scene. There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and eateries reflecting the city’s cultural diversity. This article explores the best dining experiences in Phnom Penh, featuring a range of cuisines from authentic Khmer flavors to Asian and Western delicacies.
List of 14 Best Restaurants in Phnom Penh for All Occasions:
- 1. Malis Restaurant
- 2. Eleven One Kitchen
- 3. Romdeng Restaurant
- 4. Friends the Restaurant
- 5. NESAT Seafood House
- 6. Vibe Café Asia
- 7. Dine in the Dark
- 8. Fortune Pho – Vietnamese Restaurant
- 11. Namaste India – Indian Restaurant
- 12. Topaz – French Restaurant
- 13. Terraza Restaurant – Italian Restaurant
- 14. Mexicano – Mexican Restaurant
1. Malis Restaurant
Malis Restaurant in Phnom Penh was established by Cambodian celebrity chef Luu Meng with the mission to revive the glory of Khmer cuisine.
Location: No. 136, Norodom Blvd, Phnom Penh [Google Map]
Opening Hours: 06:00 AM – 10:30 PM daily
Seating: Indoor (air-conditioned) & outdoor
Opened in 2004, Malis Restaurant emphasizes the importance of fresh seasonal produce and delicate flavors. Renowned among Khmer families, the restaurant offers a tranquil setting with stunning dishes such as Samlor Khmer (noodle soup with fish gravy and lemongrass) and Kuy Teav Malis (prawn and pork noodle soup).
2. Eleven One Kitchen
Location:
+ No. 37, Street 123 (corner of 460), Tuol Tom Poung, Phnom Penh [Google Map]
+ No. 20, Street 334 (between st.51 & st.57), Phnom Penh [Google Map]
Opening Hours: 07:00 AM – 09:30 PM daily
Seating: Indoor (air-conditioned) & outdoor
Eleven One Kitchen maintains a commitment to quality by utilizing organic ingredients, serving a blend of Khmer and Western dishes. Highlights include the famous Amok paired with a unique Lok Lak Burger, ideal for casual dining.
3. Romdeng Restaurant
Location: No. 74 Oknha Ket St. (174), Phnom Penh [Google Map]
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily
Seating: Indoor (air-conditioned) & outdoor
Romdeng Restaurant offers a vibrant dining space within a restored colonial villa. Diners can indulge in a selection of traditional Cambodian dishes alongside adventurous options like fried tarantulas and beef fillet spiced with ants.
4. Friends the Restaurant
Location: No. 215, Street 13, Phnom Penh [Google Map]
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
Seating: Indoor (air-conditioned) & outdoor terrace
Friend’s Restaurant serves a tapas-style menu in a colorful ambiance, combining Khmer and pan-Asian cuisines. Its signature dishes include sautéed baby squid and grilled snapper, making it a popular stop for both locals and expats.
5. NESAT Seafood House
Location: No. 72, Street 446, Phnom Penh [Google Map]
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily
Seating: Indoor (fan) & outdoor
Located in the heart of Phnom Penh, NESAT Seafood House captures the essence of Kep’s coastal living. With a focus on sustainability, the menu features fresh seafood delivered daily, cooked to perfection.
6. Vibe Café Asia
Location: 26A, Street 446, Russian Market, Phnom Penh [Google Map]
Opening Hours: 09:00 AM – 06:00 PM daily
Seating: Indoor (air-conditioned) & outdoor (fan, covered rooftop)
Vibe Café emphasizes fresh, organic, and health-focused vegan cuisine. With a range of gluten-free and sugar-free options, it’s a perfect place for health-conscious diners seeking flavorful dishes.
7. Dine in the Dark
Location: 126, Street 19 | Cross Streets 154 & 172, Phnom Penh [Google Map]
Opening Hours: 06:00 PM – 09:30 PM daily
Seating: Indoor (air-conditioned)
Dine in the Dark offers a unique dining experience emphasizing sensory exploration, with dishes served in complete darkness guided by visually impaired staff. This concept enhances flavors and aromas while supporting the local community.
8. Fortune Pho – Vietnamese Restaurant
Location: No. 15, Street 242 Sangkat Chak Tomuk, Phnom Penh [Google Map]
Fortune Pho, though small, is renowned for its authentic Vietnamese Pho, offering a simple yet delightful dining experience. The friendly staff ensures a welcoming atmosphere, where guests can enjoy traditional dishes without MSG.
9. Emperors of China – Chinese Restaurant
Location: No.19, Street 163 Sangkat Veal Vong, Khan Makara 7, Phnom Penh [Google Map]
Opening Hours: 07:00 AM – 02:00 PM & 06:00 PM – 10:00 PM daily
Seating: Indoor (air-conditioned)
Emperors of China offers an upscale dining experience with a delightful range of fresh dim sum and traditional Chinese dishes, providing a perfect blend of elegance and flavor.
10. SaKaNa Lab – Japanese Restaurant
Location: No. 039, Rue Pasteur No. 51, 1, Phnom Penh [Google Map]
Opening Hours: 05:00 PM – 11:00 PM daily
Seating: Indoor (air-conditioned) & balcony
SaKaNa Lab is the perfect destination for those craving authentic Japanese cuisine, featuring a menu that includes fresh sushi rolls crafted from quality ingredients.
11. Namaste India – Indian Restaurant
Location: No. 15, Street 308, Tonle Basak Corner Norodom Boulevard, Phnom Penh [Google Map]
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
Seating: Indoor (air-conditioned)
Namaste India is celebrated for its extensive menu offering a variety of vegetarian, non-vegetarian, and vegan options, ensuring an authentic dining experience filled with rich Indian flavors.
12. Topaz – French Restaurant
Location: No. 162, Preah Norodom Blvd, Phnom Penh [Google Map]
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 02:00 PM & 06:00 PM – 10:30 PM daily
Seating: Indoor (air-conditioned) & outdoor (courtyard garden)
Topaz is acknowledged as Cambodia’s premier French dining destination, boasting exquisite cuisine and exceptional service, appealing to both local and international clientele.
13. Terraza Restaurant – Italian Restaurant
Location: No. 1C, Samdach Louis Em St. (282), Phnom Penh [Google Map]
Opening Hours: 11:30 AM – 02:15 PM & 05:30 PM – 10:15 PM daily
Seating: Indoor (air-conditioned) & outdoor (covered terrace)
Terraza showcases authentic Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh, hand-made dishes. The charming atmosphere and extensive wine selection contribute to an unforgettable culinary experience.
14. Mexicano – Mexican Restaurant
Location: No.29, Street 288 (between streets 57 and 63), BKK1, Phnom Penh [Google Map]
Opening Hours:
+ Monday: 06:00 PM – 10:00 PM
+ Tuesday to Sunday: 12:00 PM – 02:30 PM & 06:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Seating: Indoor (fan) & outdoor
Mexicano has rapidly become a noted destination for authentic Mexican food in Phnom Penh, offering a delightful array of tacos and margaritas in a cozy setting.
