Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital, is a foodie’s paradise. Its bustling streets are lined with inviting street food stalls, vibrant night markets, and friendly vendors eager to share their culinary treasures.
A Phnom Penh food tour is your passport to a world of authentic Khmer cuisine. Savor dishes handed down through generations, or indulge in modern twists on classic flavors. So, prepare to embark on a gastronomic journey as we uncover the top 10 must-try delicacies this bustling metropolis offers.
Phnom Penh Food Tour Highlights: Top 10 Dishes You Can’t-Miss
Nom banh chok (Khmer noodles)
Nom Banh Chok is more than just a dish; it’s a Cambodian tradition. Often called the country’s national breakfast, this noodle soup is a daily treat for locals. The noodles are made from fermented rice and bathed in a flavorful fish curry sauce.
This aromatic broth is a symphony of lemongrass, lemon leaves, and turmeric. Street vendors across Phnom Penh proudly display their steaming pots, ready to serve up this culinary delight. Enjoy your Nom Banh Chok with fresh cucumber, bean sprouts, and a splash of chili sauce for an extra kick.

Bai Sach Chrouk (Pork and Rice)
Bai Sach Chrouk is a beloved and tasty dish in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. It features grilled pork, white rice, fresh cucumber slices, pickled daikon radish with ginger, and chicken soup topped with green and fried onions. The pork, sliced thin and grilled over embers, is sometimes marinated with pineapple juice or garlic.
Every plate of Bai Sach Chrouk is unique, with different preparations across restaurants. This means you can enjoy a variety of flavors during a Phnom Penh food tour. It’s commonly served for breakfast in Phnom Penh, making it a must-try dish for early risers.

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Yakitori Chicken Skewers
Yakitori chicken skewers are a favorite street food in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. They feature tender chicken, often thighs or breasts, marinated in a tasty sauce and grilled until perfect. The chicken is threaded onto skewers and cooked over charcoal or an open flame, adding a smoky flavor while keeping it juicy.
The secret to great yakitori is the marinade. Traditionally, it consists of a blend of soy sauce, sweet rice wine (mirin), Japanese rice wine (sake), sugar, and sometimes garlic or ginger.

Fish Amok
When visiting Phnom Penh, you must try Amok Fish, a traditional Cambodian specialty. Fresh fish fillets are marinated in a coconut curry paste with lemongrass, turmeric, and galangal. The fish is then steamed in banana leaves, creating a creamy and fragrant dish.
Fish amok is a mousse made with fresh coconut milk and kroeung, a Khmer curry paste of lemongrass, turmeric, garlic, shallots, galangal, and fingerroot (Chinese ginger). In upscale restaurants, fish amok is steamed in banana leaves, while local spots might serve a boiled version, which resembles a soupy fish curry more than a mousse.

Mi Char (Khmer Fried Noodles)
Mi Char is a popular dish on any Phnom Penh food tour and a beloved comfort food for Cambodian students after a long day of classes. This noodle dish is known to satisfy even the grumpiest eaters. The noodles are stir-fried with beef and served with a colorful array of fresh vegetables like cilantro, mint, marjoram, and lettuce, topped with a fried egg. A dash of chili sauce can elevate the flavors of this already delicious dish.
Mi Char is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Its combination of savory, salty, and slightly sweet flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a casual eater, Mi Char is a must-try when exploring the vibrant culinary scene of Phnom Penh.

Num Sang Khya l‘peou
This dish might seem unusual to tourists but is both delicious and nutritious. The chef removes the pumpkin seeds and fills the pumpkin with a mix of coconut, sugar, and egg yolks. Then, the pumpkin is steamed until it’s perfectly cooked. Once it’s ready, you’ll enjoy this standout dish, which is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
The combination of sweet coconut and rich egg yolks creates a unique, comforting and delightful flavor. The pumpkin’s natural sweetness complements the filling, making each bite a delightful experience. This dish is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a visually appealing addition to any meal.

Kralan (Sticky Bamboo Rice)
Sticky Bamboo Rice is a unique vegetarian treat you won’t find just anywhere in Cambodia. It’s a tasty mix of rice, beans, coconut, and coconut milk packed into a bamboo stick and grilled to perfection. The result is a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy center. This delicious snack is a popular street food, so keep an eye out for it in Phnom Penh’s bustling markets.
While Sticky Bamboo Rice is hot and fresh, it’s also a popular picnic item. The bamboo casing keeps the rice warm for hours, making it a convenient and satisfying meal on the go. It also adds a subtle, smoky flavor to the rice, making it a standout choice among street foods.

Lok Lak (stir-fried beef in brown sauce)
Lok Lak is a popular dish in Cambodia that food lovers will enjoy. It features pork marinated in fish sauce, oyster sauce, tomato sauce, pepper, and garlic. This mixture is stir-fried and served with onions, cucumbers, and lettuce on the side.
Before cooking, the beef or pork slices are marinated to enhance their flavor and juiciness. You can either enjoy it as is or make mini lettuce wraps with the pork. Either way, the taste is sure to satisfy your cravings.

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Num Plae Ai (Cambodian rice cake)
Num Plae Ai is a delightful treat made from finely ground rice flour. The mixture is shaped into small rounds with a bit of sugar inside and then parboiled. After cooking, the rice cakes are dipped in caramel and topped with a sprinkle of fresh coconut.
These bite-sized cakes are steamed in banana leaves, which gives them a soft and chewy texture. To fully enjoy Num Plae Ai, take your time savoring each bite, as its rich flavor can be quite filling.

Ngeav Chamboy (Cambodian lemongrass steamed oysters)
In the bustling streets of Phnom Penh, you’ll find mobile stalls offering a delicious street food treat: steamed oysters. These oysters are prepared with a mix of chili, lemon leaves, and lime leaves, creating an irresistible aroma that fills the air, especially in the evening.
When visiting Phnom Penh, don’t miss out on trying the lemongrass steamed oysters, known locally as Ngeav Chamboy. Pair them with a cold beer to fully savor this flavorful specialty. Enjoying this dish in the tropical city is a memorable culinary experience!

Tips for the Best Phnom Penh Food Tour Experience
To make the most of your Phnom Penh street food adventure, follow these tips:
- Visit Tuol Tompong Market (Russian Market)
This market is popular with both tourists and locals. It’s the top spot for coffee and Cambodian noodle soups. As you enter, you’ll be greeted by the aroma of delicious, freshly cooked food. This market, along with the Central Market, Phnom Penh Night Market, and Orussey Market, offers tasty dishes starting at just 50 cents.
- Explore Street 123
This area is known for its vibrant street food scene, especially yakitori skewers. Remember, grilled chicken skewers are available only at night, while other options are available throughout the day.
- Carry Cash
Most street food vendors only accept cash. Make sure to carry small denominations of Cambodian riel or US dollars for easy transactions.
- Solo Travelers
If you’re traveling alone, explore larger markets to find treats like fried donuts and sugar-coated pastries. Take your food to go and enjoy it while strolling around.
- Group Tours
If you’re with a group, choose dishes that are easy to share or can be taken away. This way, you can sample a variety of dishes together. Save heartier dishes like noodle soups or hot pots for the end to make sure everyone has room for them.
- Prioritize Hygiene
Ensure food safety by choosing stalls with clean preparation areas. Watch for vendors using gloves and clean utensils. Opt for freshly cooked items and avoid anything that looks like it has been sitting out for a long time. To further protect yourself, carry hand sanitizer and use it before eating.
- Use Local Transportation
For a true local experience, take tuk-tuks or moto taxis between food stalls and markets. It’s a fun way to see the city and make the most of your time.
- Prioritize Hygiene
Ensure food safety by choosing stalls with clean preparation areas. Watch for vendors using gloves and clean utensils. Opt for freshly cooked items and avoid anything that looks like it has been sitting out for a long time. To further protect yourself, carry hand sanitizer and use it before eating.
- Respect Local Customs
When eating in Cambodia, it’s polite to use your right hand and to eat with the local etiquette. Observing and following these customs enhances your experience.
Join Asia Trip Deals for a Flavorful Phnom Penh Street Food Adventure
Phnom Penh’s street food scene is a delightful mix of bold flavors and rich cultural heritage. Every bite tells a story of Cambodia’s culinary traditions, from savory noodle soups to sweet coconut desserts. Exploring the vibrant markets and bustling food stalls is an experience not to be missed.
Ready to embark on this culinary journey? Build your own tour with Asia Trip Deals and customize your adventure to suit your tastes. Whether a solo traveler or with a group, we ensures an unforgettable Phnom Penh street food experience tailored just for you. Book now and savor the flavors of Cambodia!