Phnom Penh’s Culinary Underground: Local Food Tour by Tuk-tuk
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3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Enjoy unlimited food and beer and/or soft drinks on this authentic evening food tour by tuktuk that gets you deep into our favorite neighborhoods where locals eat. During this adventure you’ll discover how deep Cambodian cuisine reaches within Southeast Asian culture.
This experience goes beyond the usual market and street food samples to shine a light into local life that can still be found hiding in Phnom Penh. We'll visit 4 authentic sit-down eateries plus a local bar, including the best versions of our favorite dishes. We'll explore local neighborhoods by tuktuk, with unlimited cold beer in hand, and enjoy the evening with your local foodie guide.
Our goal isn't just to eat a LOT (which we'll do!), but show you every part of the process and tell you about each dish and each vendor. This is why we visit mom & pop style shops who have become a local staple in their neighborhoods.
Available options
Phnom Penh’s Culinary Underground: Local Food Tour by Tuk-tuk
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel Pickup & Drop-off
Unlimited local beer, soft drinks, and bottled water
Small-group tour (2-12 people)
Private tuktuk transportation
Food at 4 sit-down, safe-to-eat restaurants
Detailed itinerary
1
Taste a time where Cambodian kings rode armored elephants into battle, where the Tonle Sap lake was only known by legend as the “Land of Gold” to far-off Indian empires, and Spanish invaders on the Mekong brought the Khmer cities of Chatamouk and Longvek to its knees through cannon fire.
Dishes that were created and defined through pivotal moments of history persist through the centuries despite the efforts of the Khmer Rouge to isolate and eliminate local food culture. Come and see what they tried to destroy and couldn’t, and taste the act of rebellion by local chefs who dared to remember and rediscover these recipes in a post-civil war era.
2
Khmer Curry Noodles: Try humble 5th century noodles that predate the Angkorian Empire alongside local patrons at simple tables and chairs, as they have for centuries. This is Cambodian comfort food that is popular for breakfast through dinner.
3
Stews & Stir-fries: Try three (or more) low-and-slow stews and stir-fries at Phnom Penh’s busiest roadside eatery. These are ancestral dishes born deep within countryside homes, now served by a family on the streets of the capitol city.
4
Stop 4
Slow-roasted Ribs: Located across the street from the museum, meet Auntie Song’s family, who’s pork short ribs once made a guest claim they “made me believe in Santa again.” Served alongside a special dish brought daily from Battambang province that features seasoned fish cakes grilled in banana leaves.
5
Fish Amok, Local Curry, and More: Sample golden-age ingredients and dishes at a trendy and lush setting hidden from the bustle of the city. These are the best versions of Cambodia’s go-to dishes.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
10 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.9
212 reviews
5★
204
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia, is a city rich in history, culture, and bustling markets. Known for its French colonial architecture, the Royal Palace, and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, it offers a unique blend of the old and the new, making it a compelling destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Royal Palace
The Royal Palace is the official residence of the King of Cambodia. It features beautiful Khmer architecture and is a must-visit for its historical significance and stunning design.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
10 USD
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
Also known as S-21, this museum is a former school turned into a prison and torture center by the Khmer Rouge. It serves as a stark reminder of Cambodia's dark past.
Historical
1-2 hours
5 USD
Central Market
Also known as Phsar Thmei, this market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothes, and local food. The Art Deco building is an architectural gem.
Market
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary
Wat Phnom
This Buddhist temple is the namesake and heart of the city. It is believed to be the site where the first pagoda was built in Phnom Penh.
Religious
30 minutes
1 USD
National Museum of Cambodia
This museum houses a vast collection of Khmer artifacts, providing a deep dive into Cambodia's rich history and culture.
Museum
1-2 hours
10 USD
Must-Try Local Dishes
Amok
A creamy coconut curry with fish or chicken, steamed in banana leaves.
Main Dish
Can be made with fish or chicken, vegetarian options available.
Lok Lak
Stir-fried beef with onions and a tangy lime-pepper dipping sauce.
Main Dish
Typically made with beef, but can be made with other meats.
Nom Banh Chok
Rice noodles topped with a fish-based gravy and fresh herbs.
Breakfast
Vegetarian options available with tofu.
Bai Sach Chrouk
Grilled pork with broken rice and pickled vegetables.
Breakfast
Contains pork.
Popular Activities
Boat Tours
Biking
Hiking
Spa Treatments
Riverfront Promenade
Coffee Shops
Temple Visits
Museum Tours
Best Time to Visit
November to February
This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
22°C - 32°C
72°F - 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Khmer
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Cambodian Riel (KHR)
Time Zone
GMT+7
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with common sense
Phnom Penh is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious, especially at night and in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of tuk-tuk drivers offering tours or services, as they may overcharge or take you to overpriced shops
- • Use reputable tour operators and agree on prices beforehand
- • Keep valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Phnom Penh International Airport • 10 km from city center
By train
Phnom Penh Railway Station
By bus
Central Market Bus Station, Siem Reap Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Public buses are affordable but can be crowded and slow. Routes cover major areas of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PassApp, Grab
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Riverside
BKK1
Russian Market (Psar Tuol Tom Poung)
Day trips
Tonlé Sap Lake
150 km from Phnom Penh • Full day
A large freshwater lake known for its floating villages and unique ecosystem.
Kampong Cham
120 km from Phnom Penh • Full day
A riverside town with a mix of French colonial architecture and traditional Khmer temples.
Koh Dach Island
15 km from Phnom Penh • Half day
A peaceful island known for its silk weaving and rural landscapes.
Festivals
Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey) • April 14-16
Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) • November (dates vary)
Pchum Ben • September/October (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat
- Try local street food at the Central Market or Russian Market for an authentic experience
- Take a tuk-tuk tour of the city to see the major attractions in a short amount of time
- Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum for a sobering but important historical perspective
- Explore the riverside area for great dining and nightlife options
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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