Phnom Penh’s most iconic restaurants

Phnom Penh has a startling variety of restaurants to choose from, with something for every taste and budget. But in a city where new restaurants can open and close within a matter of months a small handful of dining destinations have distinguished themselves by standing the test of time. Moeun Nhean, the Post’s special reports editor, takes a look at some of Phnom Penh’s most famous restaurants and their contributions to the capital’s culinary landscape.

Topaz

Topaz has been offering the highest standard of service and fine dining for over 20 years and is consistently billed as the city’s top restaurant, hosting diplomats, ministers, businessmen and royalty. Having relocated to a new space in 2016 the larger venue retains the stylish decor and elegant ambiance of the original, but adds more private rooms and outdoor seating in a lush courtyard beneath an ancient banyan tree.

The sophisticated menu of French haute cuisine builds on classic Gallic recipes, which are prepared using only top-quality ingredients and whose exquisite presentations never surpass the combination of amazing flavours. Topaz also boasts one of the city’s biggest wine cellars and a knowledgeable sommelier to guide you through its impressive selection.

Prices are as sumptuous as the setting, but reasonable given the gastronomic talent – and its three-course business lunch set is an exceptional value.

162 Preah Norodom Blvd.
023 221 622

Chinese House

Worth a visit just for its gorgeous architecture and vintage-chic décor, Chinese House also offers reliably good food and a chic cocktail bar. The landmark eatery occupies a restored historic building near the capital’s port that incorporates both French and Chinese elements and exudes a timeless charm. The dining room is an aesthetic feast of ornate floor tiles, grainy wooden beams and soft-hued walls.

The constantly-evolving menu is inventive and eclectic, with fusion fare that includes gastronomic samplings from Asia to Africa and South America. Dishes include char siu glazed duck and a Kampot pepper crusted wagyu beef tenderloin, as well as more exotic offerings such as South African springbok tenderloin.

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