Anna KH

If you’re wandering the vibrant streets of Phnom Penh, one of the most unforgettable experiences is tasting the diverse and flavorful Cambodian street food. Street vendors are everywhere from bustling markets to quiet street corners offering cheap, delicious, and authentic dishes that reflect Khmer culture. Whether you’re a foodie, a budget traveler, or just curious about local flavors, Phnom Penh has something sizzling for your taste buds. In this blog, we’re diving into 7 must try Cambodian street foods you should not miss when visiting the capital city of Cambodia! 🍲🇰🇭

1. 🍢 Num Pang ( Cambodian Baguette Sandwich)

Num Pang (នំប៉ាំង) is Cambodia’s answer to the Vietnamese Bánh Mì, and it’s just as mouthwatering! Made with a crispy French baguette, Num Pang is usually filled with grilled meats like pork, beef, or chicken, along with pickled carrots, cucumbers, spicy chili paste, and a handful of fresh herbs.

It’s the ultimate grab and go meal you can find on virtually every street corner in Phnom Penh. Locals love it for breakfast or lunch, and it’s incredibly cheap often less than $1. You can watch street vendors grill the meat right in front of you, infusing it with smoky flavor that complements the crunch of the baguette perfectly. 🥖🔥

📍 Where to Try It:
Num Pang Sandwich Stand – Russian Market (Phsar Toul Tom Poung)

2. 🐸 Fried Frog Legs (Kong Kep Ang)

If you’re feeling adventurous, try Kong Kep Ang (កង្កែបអាំង) grilled or fried frog legs, a true Cambodian street delicacy. Don’t be intimidated! These crispy treats are often seasoned with lemongrass, garlic, and chili, delivering a bold and savory flavor. Some vendors even stuff the frog with herbs and spices before frying it golden brown.

Fried frog legs are typically sold in evening street stalls and are often paired with a cold beer. They’re crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and perfect for those wanting to try something off the beaten path. 🐸🔥

📍 Where to Try It:
Street Food Alley near Orussey Market

3. 🍢 Grilled Beef Skewers (Sach Ko Ang)

You can’t walk more than 100 meters in Phnom Penh without catching the irresistible aroma of Sach Ko Ang (សាច់គោអាំង) beef skewers grilled over hot charcoal. Marinated in coconut milk, palm sugar, and lemongrass, the beef is juicy and packed with sweet and savory flavor.

Vendors usually sell them with pickled green papaya salad and baguette slices. It’s a classic Khmer street snack that’s great for meat lovers and incredibly affordable just $0.25 to $0.50 per skewer! 🥩🔥

📍 Where to Try It:
Grilled Skewers ,Night Market Riverside

4. 🫓 Num Krok (Coconut Rice Cakes)

Num Krok (នំគ្រួក់) is a beloved Cambodian dessert/snack made from a batter of rice flour and coconut milk, cooked in a round pan similar to takoyaki or Thai khanom krok. These little cakes are crispy on the outside and soft and creamy on the inside.

Vendors often sprinkle chives or scallions on top for a slight savory balance. Sold in little sets, they’re best eaten fresh off the pan while still warm. A treat both kids and adults love! 🧁🥥

📍 Where to Try It:
Num Krok Vendor Central Market

5. 🍜 Kuy Teav (Cambodian Noodle Soup)

A staple breakfast dish in Phnom Penh, Kuy Teav (គុយទាវ) is a flavorful rice noodle soup made with pork or beef broth and topped with herbs, fried garlic, green onions, and lime. You can also choose your meat sliced beef, pork, seafood, or even meatballs.

This comforting dish is served with chili, sugar, vinegar, and soy sauce on the side so you can season it to taste. Whether enjoyed at a street stall or a local eatery, Kuy Teav is a satisfying way to start your morning. 🍜🌿

📍 Where to Try It:
Kuy Teav Street Vendors near Wat Phnom

6. 🦀 Fried Tarantulas (Aping)

For the fearless foodie, Aping (អាពីង) or fried tarantula is the ultimate street food dare. Once a protein source during war times, these deep-fried spiders have become a popular snack for curious tourists and locals alike. They are crunchy, seasoned with garlic and salt, and sometimes stuffed with herbs.

Despite their scary appearance, many say they taste like soft shell crab. Not something you’d eat every day but a must-try for street food bragging rights! 🕷️🔥

📍 Where to Try It:
Insect Snacks Riverside Night Market

7. 🍌 Chek Khtih ( Grilled Banana with Coconut Milk)

End your street food tour on a sweet note with Chek Khtih (ចេកខ្ទិះ) grilled banana slices coated in rich coconut milk and sometimes wrapped in sticky rice or banana leaves. This sweet, sticky treat is both vegan and gluten-free, and you’ll often find it served hot off the grill.

The banana caramelizes beautifully, and the coconut milk adds a creamy richness that makes it one of the most comforting desserts in Cambodian street food culture. 🍌🥥🔥

📍 Where to Try It:
Chek Khtih Stand Near Independence Monument

🛺 Bonus Tips for Street Food in Phnom Penh

• 💵 Carry small cash – Most street food vendors don’t take cards.
• 💧 Bring bottled water – Stay hydrated while exploring.
• ⏰ Best time to go – Morning (6AM–10AM) or evening (5PM–9PM).
• 📱 Use Google Translate – Many vendors speak limited English, but smiles and gestures go a long way.
• 🌶️ Ask for “hal tik tik ” (a little spicy) if you’re sensitive to chili!

📷 Final Thoughts: Explore Phnom Penh One Bite at a Time

Phnom Penh’s street food scene is more than just cheap eats it’s a gateway to Cambodian culture, history, and community. Each dish tells a story, from French colonial influences to traditional Khmer flavors passed down through generations. So grab your backpack, some small change, and an empty stomach—adventure (and great food) awaits you on every corner. 🌍🍴

Have you tried any of these dishes in Phnom Penh? Let us know in the comments! 👇 And don’t forget to tag your food pics with #EatPhnomPenh for a chance to be featured.

---