Cambodia : What to eat ? culinary specialties and gastronomy

Cambodia : Enjoying yourself

Timetable Cambodia

Many restaurants are open all day, but breakfast is generally served from 7am to 11am, lunch from 11am to 2pm, and dinner from 7pm to 9:30pm. It's a little harder to find a restaurant on Sunday evenings or Mondays.

Budget & Tips Cambodia

Something for every taste and pocketbook! The small local gargote will offer you succulent dishes for a few dollars, but you'll easily find enough to break the bank in excellent upscale restaurants (exclusively in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap). Payment is often made in cash, in US dollars (usually over $10) or riels, with small change systematically returned in local currency. Only a few establishments accept payment by credit card, and often with a 3% surcharge.

What costs extra Cambodia

Prices include all taxes, and tipping is not expected. However, it is appreciated, so don't hesitate if the service has been particularly satisfactory.

The local way Cambodia

In Cambodia, you eat with a spoon and fork, and possibly a knife (but dishes are usually pre-cut). Cambodian cuisine is not spicy by default, but you'll often be given a jar of dried chili pepper. Sprinkle with care.

To be avoided Cambodia

Tap water is not drinkable in Cambodia. Beware of water jugs, and prefer mineral water, which is not very expensive in Cambodia. You can also opt for bottled water (filtered but not mineral). Most hotels also provide bottled water in the bathrooms, so you can brush your teeth in complete safety. Ice cubes are usually made with distilled water, but if you're not sure, it's best to drink a little more lukewarm.

Smokers Cambodia

Smoking is generally forbidden indoors, but as the rooms are very open to the outside world, restaurant owners are quite flexible, much to the annoyance of non-smokers. Smoking on the terrace is perfectly acceptable.

Cambodia : Take a break

Timetable Cambodia

Any time is a good time to take a break. As a rule, small street stalls are open all day from dawn to dusk, and even longer. In the city, the more upscale street-side stores observe more internationally standardized opening hours. Typically from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Budget & Tips Cambodia

As is often the case, what's local is cheap, while what's international, or inspired by the international, quickly rises in price. You'll find your croissant at the same price, or even more expensive, than in Paris!

Smokers Cambodia

Smoking is banned in public places throughout Cambodia, including restaurants, cafés and bars.