Kep Crab Market: Seafood Heaven

Welcome to one of Cambodia's most iconic culinary destinations! The Kep Crab Market (Phsar Kdam) isn't just a place to buy seafood; it's a vibrant, living experience. Located right on the waterfront, this is the spot to taste the freshest crabs in the country, caught before your eyes and cooked to perfection.

The Experience

The market is a feast for the senses, from the salty sea air to the sizzling sounds of cooking woks.

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Watch the Catch

Walk to the water's edge to see local women wading into the sea. They pull up floating bamboo baskets filled with live crabs. It doesn't get fresher than this!

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Cooked on the Spot

You don't need a kitchen. After you buy your crabs, take them to the "kitchen row" next door. For a small fee, they will boil or stir-fry them for you immediately.

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Oceanfront Dining

Grab a table at one of the wooden shacks extending over the ocean. Enjoying spicy crab with a cold drink while watching the sunset is a Kep tradition.

Pro Tips for Visitors

How to Do it Right:

• The Holy Grail Dish: You must order Kep Crab with Kampot Pepper. The green peppercorns are a protected GI (Geographical Indication) product, famous for their floral heat that perfectly matches the sweet crab meat.
• Price Watch: Prices fluctuate by season, but expect to pay roughly $8 - $15 USD per kg for blue swimmer crabs. Always ask the price per kilo before you choose.
• Cooking Fee: There is usually a separate, small fee (approx $1-2) for the cooking service. Agree on this beforehand.
• Best Time: Go early (8:00 AM) for the most bustling atmosphere, or late afternoon (4:00 PM) for a relaxed sunset dinner.

Getting There

Location: The market is located on the main waterfront road in Kep. It is impossible to miss—just follow the smell of grilling seafood!