Phnom Penh Evening Food Tour – Inclusive 5 stops local Tastings

If you’re visiting Phnom Penh and want to truly taste the city’s soul, a guided evening food tour like this one offers the perfect blend of local culinary delights and cultural insights. With five thoughtfully curated stops, this tour takes you from bustling markets to serene parks and lively nightlife spots—all while sampling Cambodia’s most beloved dishes and enjoying unlimited local beer or soft drinks.

What makes this tour stand out? Its well-balanced itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and authentic food tastings create an experience that feels both educational and delicious. However, it’s worth noting that certain stops, like the Russian Market and Royal Palace, are not included in the price and require additional expenses. This tour is best suited for travelers eager to explore Phnom Penh’s street food scene in a relaxed, social atmosphere.

Key Points:

• Authentic Culinary Experience: Five stops offering a variety of Khmer dishes, snacks, and beverages.
• Expert Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides like Tintin, Sok, and Seer enhance the experience with local insights.
• Flexible and Inclusive: Hotel pickup, unlimited drinks, and a small group environment make it both convenient and intimate.
• Cultural Highlights: Stops include markets, parks, and landmarks, blending food with local sights.
• Value for Money: At $49, it provides a substantial taste of Phnom Penh’s vibrant food scene with multiple tastings.
• Potential Extra Costs: Some attractions like the Russian Market and Royal Palace require separate expenses.

This tour is a fantastic way to jump into Phnom Penh’s lively food scene without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar streets alone. We loved how it balances culinary tastings with cultural stops, making it ideal for travelers who want more than just a dinner—it’s an immersive experience that combines the sights, smells, and tastes of the city.

One of the things that stood out most in reviews was how knowledgeable guides like Tintin, Sok, and Seer made the experience memorable, often sharing fascinating tidbits about each dish and local custom. As one reviewer put it, Tintin kicked off the evening with a “refreshing beer” and kept the energy lively, testing our ingredient knowledge in a fun way.

A potential drawback? The tour’s price does not include entrance fees for some attractions, like the Royal Palace and Russian Market, which might add up if you decide to explore those further on your own. However, the included tastings, drinks, and cultural stops provide excellent value for the price. Plus, the tour’s duration—around 4 hours and 30 minutes—strikes a good balance between being comprehensive and manageable after a day of sightseeing.

This experience is best suited for curious food lovers, solo travelers, couples, or small groups eager to explore Phnom Penh’s street food, markets, and nightlife in a relaxed, guided setting.

Stop 1: The Riverside Introduction
Meeting at your hotel and hopping onto a tuk-tuk sets the tone for the evening—fun, convenient, and authentic. The lively riverfront area offers a first glimpse into Phnom Penh’s social life, where locals relax, snack on street foods, and enjoy spontaneous entertainment. We appreciated that this initial stop is free of admission fees, giving you a relaxed start to your evening.

Stop 2: Wat Botum Park and Num Banh Chok
Next, your guide takes you to the serene Wat Botum Park before heading to the famous Num Banh Chok stall, where you’ll taste authentic Khmer noodles served with traditional soup or chicken curry. Reviewers loved this stop, with one mentioning how Tintin’s explanations made the dishes come alive, even testing their knowledge of ingredients. Expect to sample the city’s signature breakfast staple, which is slightly spicy, flavorful, and a must-try for foodies.

Stop 3: Kandal Market and Lort Cha
At Kandal Market, you’ll discover how stir-fried rice pin noodles are prepared using fascinating stir-frying techniques—simple yet delicious. The experience is interactive, with step-by-step guidance and photos, as one reviewer noted, “you can learn the steps easily.” This stop not only satisfies your taste buds but also grants insight into Cambodian cooking methods, making it educational as well as tasty.

Stop 4: Phnom Penh Night Market
This market is a treasure trove of locally made handicrafts, jewelry, and silk scarves. Walking through the stalls, you’ll encounter unique, handcrafted items by talented artisans—perfect for souvenirs or gifts. The market’s vibrant atmosphere is a highlight, especially as it’s been a selling spot for years, giving it an authentic, lived-in feel.

Stop 5: Russian Market
By night, the Russian Market transforms into a lively hub of Khmer ingredients and desserts. Although the entrance fee isn’t included in the tour price, the tasting experience here is highly praised. You’ll sample Khmer desserts and experience the market’s vibrant, bustling vibe—something that many reviewers found both fun and immersive.

Stop 6: Royal Palace Back Alley
A hidden alley near the Royal Palace introduces you to more adventurous Cambodian snacks, including dried buffalo meat and street bugs. This stop is a bit off the beaten path, making it special. Reviewers appreciated the chance to try these time-honored delicacies—though it’s not for the faint-hearted or vegetarians.

Stop 7: Street 13 Nightlife
Ending in one of Phnom Penh’s lively nightlife streets, you’ll have the opportunity to unwind with a local craft beer or cocktail. It’s a perfect way to relax and reflect on the evening’s culinary adventures, with some reviewers noting how this spot captures the city’s lively vibe.

Transport & Group Size:
Most of the tour is conducted via tuk-tuk, adding to the authentic local experience. The group size is capped at 12, ensuring a friendly, intimate atmosphere, which reviewers consistently praised.

Timing & Duration:
Starting at 5:30 pm, the tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, making it a manageable evening activity. The pacing is leisurely enough for tasting and photos, but not so long as to tire you out.

Cost & Value:
At $49 per person, the tour offers a good value considering the number of stops, tastings, and drinks included. You get to sample local foods and craft beers while exploring markets and landmarks, which would be costly if done individually.

Extras & Additional Costs:
Some stops, like the Royal Palace and Russian Market, are not included in the price and require separate expenses, so budget accordingly if you want to explore further. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a major convenience.

Booking & Flexibility:
Most travelers book about 3 weeks in advance, indicating a popular choice. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before, providing peace of mind.

This tour’s biggest strength is its combination of food, culture, and fun. It’s not just about eating—your guides, especially Tintin, Sok, and Seer, give insightful commentary, sharing stories behind each dish and market. Their friendliness and local knowledge elevate the experience beyond simple tastings.

The food itself is varied—ranging from staple Khmer noodles to stir-fried rice noodles and adventurous snacks like street bugs. Several reviewers highlight how the guides tested participants’ ingredient knowledge and encouraged tasting new, sometimes unexpected, items like crickets and tarantulas, adding an element of fun and daring.

The inclusion of unlimited local beer or soft drinks is a big plus, allowing you to relax and enjoy the lively atmosphere. The market visits, coupled with the chance to learn Cambodian cooking techniques, make this tour both a culinary and cultural adventure.

For anyone wanting a comprehensive, authentic taste of Phnom Penh’s street food and markets, this tour delivers. The small group size and expert guides ensure a friendly, personalized experience, while the variety of stops keeps things interesting from start to finish. You’ll leave with new food knowledge, some souvenirs, and plenty of memorable flavors.

If you’re curious about Khmer cuisine, eager to explore local markets, or simply want to enjoy a relaxed evening with good company and drinks, this tour ticks all those boxes. Keep in mind that some attractions require extra spending, but the core experience offers excellent value.

Overall, it’s an ideal choice for adventurous eaters, culture seekers, or anyone looking to connect with Phnom Penh’s vibrant food scene in a fun, guided setting.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, unlimited local beer or soft drinks, water, and tastings of various local foods.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 5:30 pm.

Do I need to prepare cash for additional expenses?
Yes, some stops like the Russian Market and Royal Palace are not included in the price and may require extra money for entrance fees or purchases.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
The tour includes adventurous foods like street bugs and dried buffalo meat, which may not be suitable for vegetarians. You might want to inform your guide beforehand.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring an intimate and engaging experience.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Most travelers can participate, but specific age restrictions aren’t listed. Check with the provider if you’re bringing young children.

What is the best time to join?
Starting at 5:30 pm, the evening timing is ideal for experiencing Phnom Penh’s vibrant night markets and street life.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation via tuk-tuk is included for all stops during the tour.

Will I have time to explore on my own afterward?
Absolutely. The tour ends near popular nightlife spots, so you can continue exploring or relaxing afterward.

To sum it up, this Phnom Penh evening food tour offers a vibrant, authentic, and well-organized way to experience the city’s flavors and culture. With friendly guides, diverse tastings, and a lively atmosphere, it’s perfect for travelers who want to indulge their curiosity and palate alike. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to get a taste of Phnom Penh’s everyday life, this tour promises a memorable night out that’s both fun and flavorful.