Where to Eat in Kampot and Kep: An Expat’s Guide
Kampot and Kep are culinary paradises, offering everything from fresh seafood and authentic Cambodian dishes to international flavors and cozy cafes. Discover the best dining spots in these charming Cambodian towns in this comprehensive guide.
Kampot and Kep, located in Cambodia’s southern region, are known for their laid-back atmosphere, scenic coastal views, and exceptional food.
The dining experiences in these towns range from gourmet seafood at oceanfront restaurants to hearty street food bursting with local flavors. Whether you’re a foodie seeking fresh crab in Kep or a traveler in search of Kampot’s famous pepper dishes, this guide has you covered.
Dining in Kampot

Top Restaurants
1. Baraca
Run by a Belgian couple, Baraca is a cozy spot ideal for tapas lovers.
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, European, Fusion.
- Location: #7, Street 726, Kampot.
- Opening Hours: 5:30 PM – 10 PM (Fri-Tues).
- Highlights: A favorite for its house-infused gin tonics and mouthwatering desserts like the crème brûlée.
2. Rikitikitavi
A beautiful riverside venue offering panoramic views and a relaxed dining experience.
- Cuisine: Cambodian, Asian, Bar, European.
- Location: Riverside Road, Kampot.
- Opening Hours: 7 AM – 10 PM (Daily).
- Highlights: Known for its sunset views, Rikitikitavi serves both local and Western dishes like fish amok and hearty burgers.
3. Veronica’s Kitchen
A terrace restaurant with an unpretentious charm and a local feel.
- Cuisine: Cambodian, European, American.
- Location: Old Market, Kampot.
- Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 10 PM (Daily).
- Highlights: Affordable meals with standout dishes such as Lok Lak (a classic Khmer stir-fried beef dish).
4. Aroma House
An inviting spot specializing in Mediterranean and Lebanese cuisine.
- Cuisine: Middle-Eastern, Mediterranean.
- Location: Street 722, Mouy Osorphea Village.
- Opening Hours: 12 PM – 10 PM (Tues-Sun).
- Highlights: Their falafel wraps and shawarma platters are crowd favorites, offering fresh and healthy options.
5. Atelier
A high-end restaurant offering gourmet dishes in a chic atmosphere.
- Cuisine: Seafood, Fusion.
- Location: Riverside Road, Kampot.
- Opening Hours: 12 PM – 9 PM (Daily).
- Highlights: Specializes in dishes featuring Kampot pepper, such as pepper-crusted steak and fresh seafood.
6. Ecran Noodles
A popular choice for handmade Chinese-style noodles.
- Cuisine: Chinese, Asian, Soups.
- Location: Riverfront, Kampot.
- Opening Hours: 11 AM – 9 PM (Wed-Mon).
- Highlights: Their hand-pulled noodles and pork dumplings are fresh, flavorful, and budget-friendly.
7. Epic Arts Cafe
A social enterprise café that supports people with disabilities.
- Cuisine: International brunch and lunch items.
- Location: Street 724 near Old Market.
- Opening Hours: 7 AM – 4 PM (Daily).
- Highlights: Try their delicious bagels and paninis while supporting a good cause.
8. Café Espresso Roastery
Kampot’s top destination for artisan coffee lovers.
- Cuisine: Western-style brunch, coffee.
- Location: 17 R 717, Kampot.
- Highlights: Famous for their flat whites and house-roasted beans, paired with healthy brunch options like avocado toast and granola bowls.
Dining in Kep

Top Restaurants
1. Magic Crab Restaurant
A must-visit seafood spot near Kep’s iconic crab market.
- Cuisine: Seafood, Asian.
- Location: Crab Market, Kep.
- Highlights: Their Kampot pepper crab is a signature dish, prepared with freshly caught crabs and locally grown Kampot pepper.
2. Holy Crab
Casual dining focused on fresh crab and Cambodian seafood specialties.
- Cuisine: Seafood, Cambodian.
- Location: Kep Beach area.
- Highlights: Don’t miss their crab curry, bursting with aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk.
3. Kep Sur Mer Restaurant
A beachfront gem with stunning ocean views.
- Cuisine: Seafood, International.
- Location: Kep Beach.
- Highlights: The grilled sea bass and prawn dishes are particularly popular for sunset dinners.
4. The Vine Retreat
An eco-friendly retreat offering organic and healthy dining options.
- Cuisine: Western with vegetarian-friendly choices.
- Location: Near Kep National Park.
- Contact: The Vine Retreat Website.
- Opening Hours: 8 AM – 8 PM (Daily).
- Highlights: A serene garden setting perfect for meals made from farm-to-table ingredients.
5. The Crab Market Restaurant
Located at the bustling crab market, this spot serves seafood straight off the boat.
- Cuisine: Seafood.
- Location: Kep’s Crab Market.
- Highlights: Enjoy fresh, affordable crab dishes in a casual and lively atmosphere.
Street Food Recommendations
Kampot and Kep’s street food is not to be missed, offering authentic Cambodian flavors:
- Grilled Skewers: Available at local markets and night stalls, grilled chicken and pork skewers are a quick and tasty snack.
- Fish Amok: A creamy, steamed fish curry wrapped in banana leaves.
- Fresh Fruit Shakes: Made-to-order fruit shakes, including mango, passionfruit, and banana, are refreshing treats available throughout both towns.
Tips for Dining Out in Kampot and Kep
- Try Local Specialties: Kampot pepper crab and fish amok are must-tries.
- Check Opening Hours: Some restaurants close early, particularly in low season.
- Street Food Safety: Opt for busy stalls where food is cooked fresh to avoid any hygiene concerns.
Conclusion
Kampot and Kep offer a unique blend of culinary delights, from fresh seafood caught daily to gourmet dishes infused with local ingredients. Whether you’re dining at a beachfront restaurant in Kep or sipping coffee at a cozy café in Kampot, the food scene here will leave a lasting impression. By exploring local flavors and supporting community-driven eateries, you’ll experience the true heart of these charming Cambodian towns.