Siem Reap may be best known for the majestic temples of Angkor Wat, but it also offers a rich and flavorful food scene that deserves just as much attention. Whether you’re dining at a bustling night market, exploring a roadside stall, or sitting down in a refined Khmer restaurant, the town’s culinary offerings reveal a tapestry of culture, history, and tradition.
Sampling local dishes is one of the most immersive things to do in Siem Reap Town. From sour soups to fragrant curries and unexpected insect snacks, every bite tells a story.
Here are 10 local foods you absolutely must taste when visiting Siem Reap.
1. Fish Amok – The National Dish of Cambodia
No food journey through Siem Reap is complete without trying Fish Amok. This creamy, slightly sweet curry is made with freshwater fish (usually catfish or snakehead), coconut milk, and kroeung—a traditional Cambodian spice paste made of lemongrass, turmeric, galangal, and kaffir lime.
It’s typically steamed in a banana leaf cup and garnished with shredded kaffir lime leaves and chili. The result is rich, fragrant, and utterly unforgettable.
Where to try it: Khmer Kitchen Restaurant, Chanrey Tree, or Malis.
2. Lok Lak – Stir-Fried Beef with a Twist
Lok Lak is a classic Khmer stir-fry dish featuring marinated beef chunks seared to perfection and served over a bed of lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. A pepper-lime dipping sauce made with Kampot pepper and lime juice adds a signature Cambodian zing.
This dish is often served with a fried egg on top and a side of rice.
Where to try it: Try local eateries like Sugar Palm or Street 26’s smaller Khmer cafes.
3. Nom Banh Chok – Khmer Noodles for Breakfast
Known as Khmer noodles, Nom Banh Chok is a beloved breakfast dish in Cambodia. It consists of thin rice noodles topped with a light green fish gravy made from lemongrass, turmeric, and fingerroot. It’s served cold with plenty of crunchy, fresh vegetables like banana flower, cucumber, and bean sprouts.
Locals grab it from early-morning street vendors. It’s light, refreshing, and surprisingly addictive.
Where to try it: Early-morning roadside stalls or at Psar Chas (Old Market).
4. Bai Sach Chrouk – Grilled Pork and Rice
Another breakfast staple in Siem Reap, Bai Sach Chrouk is a humble yet delicious combination of thinly sliced pork grilled over charcoal and served with broken rice and pickled vegetables.
The pork is usually marinated in coconut milk or garlic before grilling, giving it a slightly sweet, smoky flavor. It’s often accompanied by a small bowl of clear soup.
Where to try it: Street food vendors near the Wat Damnak area or near local markets.
5. Prahok Ktiss – Fermented Fish Dip with Vegetables
For the more adventurous eater, Prahok Ktiss offers a bold and savory experience. This fermented fish dip is cooked with minced pork, coconut milk, and chili, resulting in a creamy, salty, and spicy dish served with raw vegetables like cabbage, cucumber, and long beans.
Prahok is known as Cambodia’s “cheese” because of its strong smell, but if you’re into umami flavors, it’s a must-try.
Where to try it: Local homes, food tours, or at restaurants offering traditional Khmer tasting menus.
6. Red Tree Ants with Beef – A Tangy, Crunchy Surprise
Yes, you read that right—red tree ants are a delicacy in Cambodia. In this dish, ants are stir-fried with thin slices of beef, basil, garlic, and shallots. The ants provide a citrusy tang and crunchy texture, making the dish surprisingly delicious.
You’ll also occasionally spot their tiny white larvae included, adding protein and texture.
Where to try it: Marum Restaurant (run by the TREE Alliance) or Bugs Cafe for a more daring dining experience.
7. Ang Dtray Meuk – Grilled Squid on a Stick
Simple, smoky, and satisfying, Ang Dtray Meuk is a common street food snack consisting of fresh squid skewered and grilled over hot coals. It’s brushed with a marinade of lime juice, fish sauce, and garlic, giving it a tangy, savory flavor.
Often served with a chili-lime dipping sauce, it’s the perfect grab-and-go snack.
Where to try it: Night markets like Angkor Night Market or Siem Reap Street Food Alley.
8. Kuy Teav – Cambodian Noodle Soup
A popular breakfast or lunch dish, Kuy Teav is a clear pork or beef broth served over rice noodles with slices of meat, green onions, bean sprouts, and herbs. You can customize it with lime, chili, or soy sauce to match your taste.
This noodle soup is comforting and hearty, making it an excellent fuel-up before temple-hopping.
Where to try it: Street vendors or local noodle shops near Psar Leu Market.
9. Insects and Tarantulas – Street Food for the Brave
If you’re feeling bold, one of the most unique culinary experiences in Siem Reap is trying edible insects. From fried crickets and grasshoppers to deep-fried tarantulas, these high-protein snacks are surprisingly tasty and seasoned with garlic and chili.
Though not a daily staple for all Cambodians, these snacks are popular in some provinces and have become a draw for curious foodies.
Where to try it: Bugs Cafe or roadside stalls around Pub Street.
10. Khmer Desserts – Sweet Endings
No meal is complete without a sweet treat. Cambodian desserts often incorporate tropical fruits, coconut milk, and sticky rice.
Popular options include:
Num Ansom Chek (banana sticky rice wrapped in banana leaf)
Chek Ktis (banana cooked in coconut milk)
Pumpkin custard (steamed inside a whole pumpkin)
These desserts are light, naturally sweet, and typically gluten-free.
Where to try it: Psar Chas or dessert carts near Siem Reap River.
Conclusion: Siem Reap’s Flavors Go Far Beyond Temples
While Angkor Wat may be the headline act, Siem Reap’s local food scene is a cultural journey of its own. Each dish you try deepens your connection to Cambodia’s heritage, from ancient royal recipes to rustic countryside traditions.
Whether you’re slurping fish amok from a banana leaf or nibbling red tree ants with a cold Angkor beer, you’ll find that food here is much more than sustenance—it’s an experience.
So, when compiling your list of things to do in Siem Reap Town, make food exploration a top priority. Your taste buds will thank you.
FAQs About Local Food in Siem Reap
1. Is street food in Siem Reap safe to eat?
Generally, yes—especially at busy stalls with high turnover. Choose vendors who cook food fresh in front of you and avoid anything sitting out too long. Bring hand sanitizer and follow your instincts.
2. Are there vegetarian options in Khmer cuisine?
Absolutely. Many restaurants in Siem Reap offer vegetarian or vegan versions of local dishes, including amok, stir-fries, and soups. Look for eateries near Pub Street or those promoting sustainable menus.
3. How spicy is Cambodian food?
Khmer food is generally milder than Thai cuisine, though you can request extra chili or ask for no spice. Condiments like chili paste and lime are often served on the side.
4. What is the average cost of a meal in Siem Reap?
Street food meals range from \$1–\$3 USD, while mid-range restaurants charge \$5–\$10. Upscale dining experiences or Western meals can range from \$15 and up.
5. Can I drink the tap water in Siem Reap?
No, it’s best to avoid tap water. Stick to bottled or filtered water and ensure ice comes from purified sources. Many hotels and cafés provide refilling stations.
