Focus Cambodia shares our guide to where to eat & drink when visiting the Kingdom's South, homing in on Kep and Kampot
Tertúlia
A lively slice of Portuguese charm opening onto the streets of Kampot, Tertúlia takes its name from the rich bodega culture that spread from the Iberian peninsula across Latin America. It follows through on a promise of good food and even better conversation. A succulent range of marine offerings includes Portugal’s famous seafood cataplana, and there are plenty of moderately priced red meats on the menu as well, to be enjoyed with a choice of Iberian wines and pulsing Latin music.
Artisans Kampot
Formerly Atelier, this quaint gourmet bistro and boutique on Kampot’s languid riverside occupies an original French colonial-era shophouse that retains an Old World charm despite its renovated chic interiors. Serving elegant cuisine inspired by the piquant flavours of the iconic Kampot pepper, Artisan blends the vibrant tastes of Cambodia with the fusion creations of collaborating regional chefs who make such delicious dishes as crab cannelloni and a Khmer lok lak burger.
Bistro Twenty Three
Twenty Three’s French-trained South African chef focuses on top-quality European cuisine made with locally sourced, seasonal produce. The single-sheet menu changes regularly and includes vegan specials, such as the twice-baked cheddar soufflé. Other favourites are the slow-cooked pork belly with butternut purée and roasted sea bass with a clam and white wine sauce. Ambience is low-key, prices are reasonable, and the friendly staff will be glad to recommend Twenty Three’s own craft beer on draught.
Kep West
The Kep West development has branded itself a “culinary beach destination” with five dining options. They are headed by the high-end Crab & Co., a surf-and-turf venue where seafood platters are served alongside steaks and chops. The Strand is at the Knai Bang Chatt resort. Café Grande has Asian small bites, cocktails and music. The Wave features more casual fare. The Old Sailing Club, a longtime favourite open on weekends, offers an Asia-themed menu of 10 dishes priced under $9.
Rikitikitavi
Perched on a riverside balcony above a terrace restaurant, the popular bar is well known for its selection of single malt Scottish whiskies. Beer, wine, cocktails and fresh fruit shakes are also part of the fare. The restaurant specialises in creative Khmer cuisine.
