Phnom Penh is a feast for the senses, and nowhere is that more true than on its bustling streets, where the aroma of sizzling meats, sweet coconut milk, and fragrant herbs fills the air. To truly experience the city’s culinary heart, you have to eat like a local. Forget the fancy restaurants and follow this guide to the best street food stalls in Phnom Penh, where every dish tells a story.
What to Eat
1. Bai Sach Chrouk (Pork and Rice)
A classic Cambodian breakfast, Bai Sach Chrouk is a must-try. Thin slices of marinated pork are grilled over charcoal until they’re smoky and tender. Served over a bed of jasmine rice, with a side of pickled vegetables and a small bowl of chicken broth, it’s a simple, delicious, and filling way to start the day.
2. Nom Banh Chok (Khmer Noodles)
Often called the “national dish” of Cambodia, Nom Banh Chok is a dish of delicate rice noodles topped with a creamy, herby fish curry gravy. Vendors typically serve it with a heaping basket of fresh vegetables, herbs, and flowers, so you can customize your bowl to your liking. Look for the local vendors with large pots of the fragrant curry in the mornings at markets like Orussey Market.
3. Lort Cha (Stir-fried Noodles)
For a quick and satisfying meal, you can’t go wrong with Lort Cha. These short, thick rice noodles are stir-fried with an assortment of vegetables and beef, and topped with a fried egg. The sweet and spicy sauce gives it a kick that will keep you coming back for more. It’s a hugely popular street food and can be found almost everywhere.
4. Nom Pang (Cambodian Baguette Sandwich)
A legacy of the French colonial era, Nom Pang is Cambodia’s take on the baguette sandwich. A crispy baguette is filled with grilled pork, pâté, fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and a generous smear of chili sauce. It’s a perfect grab-and-go meal for when you’re exploring the city.
5. Chek Chien (Fried Bananas)
For a sweet treat, seek out a Chek Chien stall. Ripe bananas are coated in a crispy, sesame-seed batter and deep-fried to a golden brown. These sweet, hot, and crunchy treats are a favorite snack among locals.
Best Street Food Markets
1. Central Market (Phsar Thmey)
An iconic art-deco landmark, Central Market is not just for shopping. The food stalls here offer a wide variety of local dishes, from fresh seafood to noodle soups. It’s a great place for a casual meal while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
2. Russian Market (Phsar Toul Tom Poung)
Known for its wide selection of goods, the Russian Market is also a fantastic spot for an authentic Cambodian food experience. The food court is packed with stalls selling everything from Nom Banh Chok to deep-fried insects for the more adventurous eaters.
3. Orussey Market
If you want to eat like a true local, Orussey Market is the place to go. It’s Phnom Penh’s largest traditional market and remains mostly off the tourist trail. The ground floor is a labyrinth of food stalls serving authentic and affordable dishes, including some of the best Nom Banh Chok in the city.