My Favorite Food Spot in Siem Reap (A Local Secret!)
Forget the tourist hubs for a moment. Today, I want to share my absolute favorite spot to eat and relax in Siem Reap, a place where the food is authentic, the prices are great, and the atmosphere is pure local charm.
The Vibe: Sunset Feasts by the Water
Just outside the main temple areas, you'll find the beautiful **Srah Srang**, an ancient royal bathing pool. Dotted along its banks is a collection of local food stalls and simple restaurants. This is where local families and friends come in the late afternoon to lay out mats, order incredible food, and watch the sunset over the water. It’s casual, relaxed, and completely authentic.
A Feast for the Eyes (and Stomach!)
Here's a taste of the delicious Khmer food you can find here, based on my last visit. My photos say it all!
Grilled Chicken & Fish
A Full Khmer Spread
Fresh Papaya Salad (Bok Lahong)
Hot & Sour Soup (Samlor Machu)
More Delicious Dishes
Authentic Dipping Sauces
Pro Tips for Your Visit
- Best Time to Go: The area comes alive in the late afternoon, from about **4 PM onwards**. This is the perfect time to grab a spot, order your food, and enjoy the sunset.
- What to Expect: This is a very casual experience. You'll likely be sitting on woven mats on the ground. On the **north side of Srah Srang**, you'll find the market stalls. On the **south side**, there are more small, family-run restaurants with tables.
- How to Order: At the stalls, you can simply point to what looks good! They'll have grilled meats, salads, and snacks ready to go. The restaurants will have longer menus with a wide variety of Khmer food.
- Price: The prices here are very reasonable and affordable, aimed at locals rather than tourists. It's a great value for such delicious food.
I absolutely love this place and can't wait for my next meal here. If you want to experience a truly local side of Siem Reap's food scene, I can't recommend it enough!
