Dining Out Halal in Cambodia
Finding Halal Food near Angkor Wat or in Phnom Penh is Easy
Feb 27, 2009
Halal food is made from ingredients which have been prepared and/or slaughtered in line with ancient Muslim rules and traditions.
Restaurants in Cambodia have few enforced standards, period, and there is no national Halal standard as yet, although the Ministry of Tourism has already signaled it intends chasing the rapidly growing Islamic tourism market.
Some Cambodian Halal restaurants have earned the approval of local Islamic societies and most are happy to discuss their certifications and show guests around their kitchens. Although Halal restaurants are most easily found in the main centers of Siem Reap and the capital Phnom Penh, ethnic Cham Muslim communities are spread throughout much of the country.
And Muslims wanting to explore traditional Cambodian cuisine need not miss out – some Halal restaurants serve great Khmer food.
Below are five examples giving some idea of the range of Halal cuisines and locations around the country. The Cambodia Yellow Pages, Halal directory Zabihah (which additionally awards Halal conformity ratings) and the Halal Business Directory also provide listings.
Bopha Phnom Penh Restaurant
This extremely popular restaurant located near the capital's ferry terminal with stunning river views serves Cambodian and Western fare. No dish will set you back more than 7USD. Serving everything from pizza and tacos to couscous on its Western menu, Bopha also dishes up exotic Khmer cuisine, including the Cambodian signature dish of fish amok – a steamed curry served in banana leaves. There is also an impressive vegetarian menu. Bopha Phnom Penh's official address is Sisowath Quay, "next to the Ferry Port" where boats depart for Siem Reap. It is just north of the riverside district. Make reservations by calling +855 23 42 72 09 or +855 92 64 63 61. Alcohol available.
Mamak's Corner
A Malaysian restaurant run by a Muslim family, this is a Phnom Penh institution and a lunch buffet will set you back no more than 3USD. Malaysian locals recommend the fried rice with chicken, roti canai and nasi lemak. There are always plenty of vegetarian options, and, of course, sambal. This comfortable canteen-style eatery is completely alcohol free. Try the delicious sweet tea. Located at House 17, Street 114, close to Wat Phnom. Call +855 12 895 026.
Maharajah Royal Indian Cuisine Halal
The beaches near Sihanoukville where this Indian favorite is located are regarded as some of the best in the region. Prices here are perfect for the budget traveler, with nothing over 4USD, including the seafood dishes, and set menus ranging up to 6.50USD. The management prepares its own Indian spices to add extra authenticity and all the usual favorites are here – keema, biryani, curries, Indian breads, sweets and salads. The vegetarian menu is extensive. Maharajah is located in the heart of the Sihanoukville backpacker district on Victory Hill. Call +855 15 96 62 21 for bookings. The family also have a location in Siem Reap between the Old Market and Pub Street.
D'Wau Malaysia Kitchen
After a hard day touring the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, D'Wau restaurant in Siem Reap is a welcome and highly recommended Halal home away from home. It has earned the approval of the Cambodian Muslim Development Foundation, and although it bills itself as Malaysian, it also offers Western, Chinese, Khmer and Thai selections. It goes the extra mile for its clients, even offering a designated prayer room. With dishes ranging from Tom Yam to hamburgers, fries and Halal hot dogs to fresh steamed fish dishes, this is an excellent option for both families with children and business lunches. Vegetarians will also leave satisfied. A'la carte dishes are around 4USD, with set menus beginning at 5USD and a buffet available. D'Wau is located at Number 0246 Wat Bo Village in a popular tourist area. Alcohol free. Call +855 92 68 97 61 or visit the website for bookings.
Rabbit Restaurant
A relatively new addition to the Halal scene in Siem Reap, this little restaurant on the river specializes in Halal Chinese. Its Halal sign in the window caught the attention of Halal business guide Zabinhah, which rates it cheap and cheerful. With no website and no email address, Rabbit's official street address is just "the riverfront near the Old Market". Alcohol free. Call +855 92 68 62 29.
