Phnom Penh: A Gourmet Odyssey at the Heart of the Vegan and Vegetarian Revolution
- Coin gourmand
- Oct 19
- 7 min read
The Cambodian capital today asserts itself as one of the boldest gastronomic destinations in Southeast Asia, where the art of plant-based cuisine transcends the boundaries between tradition and modernity. This guide reveals a non-exhaustive panorama: from fully vegan restaurants to classic fine dining tables that have enriched their menus with refined vegetarian creations, proving that culinary excellence does not always need animal proteins to delight the most demanding palates.
The pioneers of all-vegan
Vibe Café holds the prestigious title of the first 100% vegan establishment in Phnom Penh. This bohemian café truly triggered the plant revolution in the Cambodian capital. Its secret? Overwhelming creativity that fuses Mediterranean and Asian flavors, enhanced by local, fermented, and organic ingredients.
The legendary Tropical Buddha Bowl remains the emblem of the house: an explosion of textures and aromas where ancient grains, seasonal vegetables, house-made hummus, and plant proteins compose a nutritional harmony as beautiful as it is tasty. The multicolored smoothies, prepared with fully ripe tropical fruits, also represent an essential signature. With its inspiring décor celebrating the plant kingdom and a friendly atmosphere, Vibe still today remains a gathering point for vegans, vegetarians, and curious people seeking healthy and vibrant cuisine.
French elegance
Topaz, a Phnom Penh institution for over 27 years, embodies the pinnacle of French gastronomy in the Cambodian capital. This mythical address on Norodom Boulevard no longer just serves foie gras and caviar: it has developed a vegetarian and vegan menu that rivals the elegance of its carnivorous creations.
The millefeuille of grilled vegetables with black truffle, creamy risotto with plant-based parmesan, and revisited ratatouille are among the signature creations that captivate both the eye and palate.
The cozy atmosphere of the inner garden, sheltered under the oldest banyan tree on Norodom Boulevard, offers a romantic setting worthy of great European houses. With an exceptional wine list including Duval Leroy champagne unavailable elsewhere in Cambodia and eight private salons for special occasions, Topaz proves that vegetarianism can also rhyme with grand luxury.
The reinvented Khmer soul
Mok Mony stands as the guardian of a tradition revisited with boldness and respect. This restaurant celebrates ancestral Khmer cuisine in a vegetarian version, seducing purists by its fidelity to authentic flavors while banning animal proteins. The amok with tofu, delicately flavored with kaffir lime and wrapped in a banana leaf according to traditional methods, constitutes a culinary feat honoring the Cambodian gastronomic heritage.
The red curry with crunchy vegetables, subtly heightened with fresh spices from local markets, transports diners to the heart of the millennia-old flavors of the kingdom. This approach of cultural preservation through plant-based cuisine proves that modernity and tradition do not oppose but mutually enrich each other. For those seeking an authentically Cambodian experience without ethical compromise, Mok Mony represents an essential stop.
Ecological engagement embodied
Farm to Table embodies the philosophy of short supply chains and social responsibility with admirable conviction. Every ingredient comes from carefully selected local organic farms, creating a virtuous ecosystem that values committed producers and guarantees incomparable freshness. The lush garden welcoming diners in a bucolic setting is not just decor: it is a productive vegetable garden where aromatic herbs and vegetables will soon find their way onto plates.
The talented chef composes a menu where every vegetarian and vegan dish, clearly identified, celebrates seasonality and Cambodian terroirs. The trio of bruschettas vibrant in colors and flavors, generous salad bowls, and indulgent vegan desserts testify to creativity serving conscious eating. Open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day, Farm to Table offers an experience where freshness, ecological awareness, and gustatory pleasure combine in perfect balance.
The oases
Bong Bonlai, literally "Vegetable Brother" in Khmer, nestles within the YK Art House and constitutes a vegan oasis in the urban hustle. This fusion restaurant skillfully marries Mediterranean and Asian influences in an intimate courtyard setting with a small pool. The Rainbow Buddha Bowl, a festival of colors where fresh vegetables, whole grains, and creamy tahini sauce harmonize, is the house specialty. Vegan tacos filled with spicy beans, creamy avocado, and spicy salsa, as well as the creamy coconut curry overflowing with vegetables, attract an international and engaged clientele.
Backyard Café has won the hearts of health-conscious residents thanks to its peaceful riverside location and resolutely organic philosophy. The menu changes daily according to arrivals from Cambodian markets and farms, guaranteeing optimum freshness and renewed creativity. The Buddha Bowl composed of ancient grains, roasted vegetables, artisanal hummus, and plant proteins is the house signature, accompanied by vegan raw cacao brownies that challenge all classic versions. Weekly yoga classes at five dollars and guided meditations during full moons complete a holistic approach nourishing body and mind.
International flavors
Eleven One Kitchen celebrates contemporary Khmer cuisine with respect for fresh local ingredients and generosity in vegetarian alternatives. The seasonal vegetable curry with coconut milk, balanced and fragrant, is among the most popular creations on a menu that boldly revisits Khmer classics. Located at 20B Street 334, the establishment demonstrates that authenticity and innovation can coexist harmoniously on the plate.
Masala Dosa Street Kitchen instantly transports guests to South India thanks to its vegetarian and vegan specialties expertly prepared. The masala dosa, a large crispy crepe filled with spiced potatoes and served with house chutney and steaming sambar, is the undisputed emblem of this address. The passionate and welcoming owner has managed to recreate the authenticity of South Indian flavors in a convivial atmosphere that fosters a loyal community.
Spiritual havens
Sacred Lotus – Vegan Cafe x Hostel is much more than just a restaurant: it is the beating heart of the vegan community in Phnom Penh. Passionately managed by Krishnan and Neth, this hybrid place combines café, coworking space, guest rooms, and yoga and meditation studio within a holistic philosophy. The menu offers fully vegan Western and Khmer dishes, with special mention for the revisited Cambodian pad thai and mushroom burger with cashew nut vegan cheese. The plant-based coffees at one dollar every Tuesday create a popular weekly meeting for regular customers.
Sundays – Boutique Cafe & Vegan Hotel has revolutionized the Phnom Penh brunch with its legendary vegan waffles. This 100% vegan establishment, open from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. every day except Monday, combines gourmet restaurant and boutique hotel for a full vegan experience. The elegant rooms extend the plant-based philosophy in contemporary comfort, making Sundays a comprehensive destination for vegan travelers.
Khmer tradition revisited in plant-based version
Le Malis is a high place of traditional Khmer gastronomy, reinterpreted with elegance. For those who prefer meatless menus, the restaurant notably offers tofu prepared with ginger and Kampot pepper, an emblematic trio of local ingredients rich in flavor and health benefits.
The tofu, rich in vitamins B, A, and E, is elevated in light and vitamin-rich dishes, perfect for savoring Cambodia's plant richness without compromising taste.
The sumptuous setting of Malis, blending traditional Khmer elements and contemporary design, invites a refined culinary experience. Other popular vegetarian options include seasonal vegetable curries and fresh salads, with prices ranging from 5 to 12 dollars per serving, an excellent value in the heart of the city.
Italian authenticity for vegetarians
Siena is a favored address for Mediterranean Italian cuisine highlighting freshness and ingredient quality. The restaurant offers a fine selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes suited to various dietary needs, from thin-crust pizzas topped with seasonal vegetables, savory fresh pasta, to mezzes like falafel and hummus.
Guests can enjoy an authentic vegetable risotto or a caprese salad revisited in a vegan version, all in a modern, relaxed setting on the 27th floor with panoramic city views. Typical vegetarian dish prices range from 8 to 15 dollars, offering a delicate and generous Italian experience in Phnom Penh.
French elegance with a vegetal touch
Khéma is known for its refined French cuisine and warm hospitality. The restaurant offers a "free-flow" lunch buffet that includes a variety of vegetarian options. Among popular vegetarian dishes are creamy watercress soups, gourmet mushroom risottos, as well as savory plant-based pâtés and cheeses.
For gourmets, Khéma also serves à la carte dishes such as summer vegetable salad or mushroom and cheese puff pastry, combining crisp texture and creaminess. Located in the heart of Phnom Penh, this chic venue is a true invitation to discover French cuisine in a version respectful of vegetarians and vegans, with dishes priced between 10 and 18 dollars.
Vegan and vegetarian excellence at Sofitel Phnom Penh
The Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra offers several renowned restaurants where vegetarian and vegan cuisine is highlighted with elegance. The French brasserie La Coupole, the Chinese restaurant Fu Lu Zu, the Japanese Hachi, and the Italian Do Forni each offer options adapted to vegetarian and vegan diets.
At La Coupole, vegetarian dishes include fresh salads like green mango salad at 10 USD, and original soups. The menu changes with modifiable dishes to suit vegans.
For example, a delicious vegetarian Caesar Salad is offered around 8 USD, while vegan options can be adapted on request. Seasonal desserts such as crème brûlée and tiramisu are available around 6 USD. The attention to detail and refined quality of the dishes make this place a must for lovers of animal product-free cuisine.
Refined flavors and vegetarian options at Raffles Phnom Penh
The Raffles Hotel Le Royal, an emblem of luxury in Phnom Penh, offers an exceptional gastronomic experience in its restaurant Le Royal. This elegant place blends royal Khmer cuisine, Western dishes, and carefully prepared vegetarian options.
Among the vegetarian classics are salads, light starters, and elaborate main dishes, often adaptable for vegans.
The à la carte menu includes exquisite amuse-bouches and a choice of refined vegetarian dishes around 25-30 USD for a complete meal. The Khmer tasting menu also offers alternatives for passionate vegetarian lovers of local cuisine. Located near Wat Phnom, Raffles Le Royal offers a perfect setting for an elegant dinner with impeccable service.
Coexistence
Phnom Penh now imposes itself as a gastronomic laboratory where the plant kingdom is no longer an alternative but a celebration.
From French fine dining to authentic Khmer canteens, from bohemian cafés to committed restaurants, the Cambodian capital proves that luxury, creativity, tradition, and ecological consciousness can coexist harmoniously on the plate.
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