A Food Lover's Guide to Phnom Penh: From Vietnamese Phở to French Bistros
- Hanz Socials
- Jun 17
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 4
Living in Phnom Penh as a Singaporean food enthusiast, I've discovered an incredible array of dining spots that showcase the city's diverse culinary landscape. Here's my curated food lover's guide to Phnom Penh restaurants and cafe that offer everything from authentic Asian flavors to European classics.
Hà Nôi Corner: A Taste of Vietnam
Step into the world of Vietnamese cuisine at Hà Nôi Corner, where the iconic phở takes center stage. This legendary noodle soup exemplifies Vietnam's culinary excellence, featuring tender rice noodles swimming in a carefully simmered in light aromatic broth, complemented by premium cuts of meat and fresh herbs.
With most dishes priced between $3.00 - $6.00, including their excellent phở at $3.50, it offers exceptional value for authentic Vietnamese flavors.
Opening hours: 8:00am to 10:00pm
Būn Vietnamese Kitchen: Where Tradition Meets Innovation
At Būn Vietnamese Kitchen, the star attraction is their bánh mì - a delicious testament to Vietnam's French colonial heritage. Each crispy baguette filled with your choice of protein, enhanced by the rich spread of pâté and brightened with fresh and pickled vegetables.
Don't miss their Vietnamese coffee (cà phê Việt Nam), a robust brew prepared using traditional phin filters. Whether you prefer it hot (cà phê nóng) or iced (cà phê đá), the intense flavor profile of their Robusta beans delivers an authentic Vietnamese coffee experience.
With locations in both Langka Lane (BKK1) and Toul Tom Phong, Būn offers convenient access to Vietnamese favorite street food in modern, comfortable settings.
Opening Hours: 10:00 am - 10:00 pm
Uraetei Lite: Solo-Friendly Japanese BBQ
Uraetei Lite revolutionizes the yakiniku experience in Phnom Penh by catering to both solo diners and groups. What sets this establishment apart is its innovative single-person grilling stations, making premium Japanese BBQ accessible to everyone.
Menu Highlights:
Various cuts of high-quality beef including short plate, ribeye, and wagyu options
Set meals that include rice, soup, and side dishes
Affordable pricing with most individual sets ranging from $7-15
Additional meat portions available for customizing meal sizes
Dining Experience:
Individual grilling stations equipped with modern ventilation systems
Traditional tabletop grills for group dining
Casual yet clean atmosphere typical of Japanese casual dining establishments
My recent visit confirmed why this spot remains a favorite - the "Short Plate Suki Style Set" ($7.00 for 150g of beef) with an extra 75g of short rib ($6.80) offered an outstanding value-for-money dining experience.
Opening Hours: 11:00 am - 11:00 pm
Le Manolis: A Slice of Paris in Phnom Penh
Housed in a beautifully restored French colonial building, Le Manolis transports diners to the heart of Paris. This charming bistro perfectly balances authentic French cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere, offering both indoor and outdoor seating options.
Menu Highlights:
Traditional bistro dishes like Beef Lasagnes and Le Croque Monsieur du Manolis
Selection of French wines and craft cocktails
House-made desserts such Wat Chocolate Lava With Salted Caramel Ice Cream
Pricing and Value:
Main courses range from $13-120 for Charcoal Grill Meat, appetizers between $5-20 and tapas between $7-$15. The portions are generous, and the quality justifies the price point in the upscale casual dining category.
Ambiance:
The restaurant features classic bistro décor and the outdoor terrace is particularly pleasant during cooler evenings, offering a perfect spot for people-watching while enjoying your meal.
Opening Hours: 11:00 am - 12:00 am
Black Noodle: Authentic Khmer Noodle Experience
For an authentic taste of Cambodian noodle soup (Kuy Tiew), Black Noodle near Phsar Kabko is a must-visit. Known locally as "មីខ្មៅ" (Mi Khmao), this popular establishment serves their signature darker-broth noodle soup that keeps locals coming back for more.
The bustling atmosphere and constant flow of local patrons speak volumes about the quality. While the broth leans toward the sweeter side to cater to local preferences, diners can customize their bowl with an array of condiments including chili, lime, and fresh herbs.
Opening hours: 10am to late night
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Pissa Eatery: Modern Asian Fusion
Strategically located near The Gym Place on St 282 in Beoung Keng Kang 1, Pissa Eatery offers a contemporary take on Khmer and Asian cuisine. This casual dining spot is the latest edition in the area serving traditional flavors with modern presentation.
Menu Focus:
Traditional Khmer dishes with modern presentation
Asian fusion options incorporating regional flavors
Breakfast options of Khmer dishes to Western sandwiched with egg and more
Selection of cocktails, beers and wine
Price range between $4-$6 for appetizers, Toasted sandwich average about $6, Local Asian Delicacies average at $5-$7, Asian Grilled $6-$17, Khmer Food between $3-$6, Breakfast average at $5
Dining Environment:
Contemporary casual setting
open-air seating
Convenient location corner of The Place Gym in Beoung Keng Kang 1 in-front of Check Inn Hotel
Operating Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to late night
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