Water Safety
Do NOT drink tap water in Cambodia. The water supply is not treated to safe drinking standards.
- Bottled water is cheap and everywhere ($0.25-0.50 for 1.5L)
- Ice safety: Cylindrical ice with a hole through the center = factory-made, safe. Irregularly shaped ice chunks = possibly made from tap water, avoid
- Use bottled water for brushing teeth in budget accommodation
- Most hotels provide complimentary bottled water
Street Food
Cambodian street food is delicious and generally safe if you follow basic rules:
- Eat where it's busy — high turnover means fresh food
- Eat food cooked fresh in front of you — avoid pre-cooked items sitting in the heat
- Look for cleanliness — clean utensils, fresh oil, covered food
- Peel fruits yourself — or wash with bottled water
Must-Try Dishes
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Amok | Fish curry steamed in banana leaf — Cambodia's national dish | $3-6 |
| Lok Lak | Stir-fried beef with pepper-lime sauce and fried egg | $3-5 |
| Bai Sach Chrouk | Grilled pork over rice — the classic breakfast | $1-2 |
| Kuy Teav | Pork or beef noodle soup — Cambodian pho | $1-2 |
| Nom Banh Chok | Khmer noodles with fish curry — "Khmer breakfast" | $0.50-1 |
| Fresh fruit shakes | Mango, passion fruit, coconut | $1-2 |
Dietary Restrictions
- Vegetarian: Possible but limited. Many "vegetable" dishes use fish sauce or oyster sauce. Say "sot tae bonlai" (vegetables only)
- Vegan: More challenging. Buddhist vegetarian restaurants exist in cities (look for yellow signs)
- Gluten-free: Rice-based cuisine makes this relatively easy
- Allergies: Peanuts and shellfish are common in Cambodian cooking. Carry an allergy card in Khmer
Food Hygiene
- Wash hands frequently — hand sanitizer is your friend
- Anti-diarrheal medication (Imodium) is available at any pharmacy without prescription
- Oral rehydration salts are also widely available
- If you get food poisoning, stay hydrated and rest. See a doctor if symptoms persist beyond 48 hours