Romdeng

Romdeng is another highlight and a ‘must do’ for all those visiting or living in Phnom Penh. As part of the Tree Alliance group, Romdeng works towards training underprivileged youths in hospitality. After rigorous daily training in the kitchen and front of house via the Mith Samlanha vocational training program, the students are then placed in real-life positions at the restaurants. Although supervised by their trainers, it’s great to experience great food in a great location while also helping out those working towards a better life.
The restaurant itself is nestled in a back street of Phnom Penh’s central district in an old French colonial house. Soft lighting, a pool and leafy gardens surround the casual outside dining area. There are also seating options inside and upstairs on the balcony. The food at Romdeng, like many of Phnom Penh’s top restaurants, focuses on classic take on traditional items. The menu has a full range of interesting dishes including items such as banana blossom salad and crispy whole fried fish with green mango salad and chilli relish.

What sets Romdeng apart from other restaurants is the availability of many uncommon Cambodian delicacies such as fried crickets, tree ants, silk worms and deep-fried tarantulas. Although not your every-day Asian style dishes, the creepy crawlies are interesting and worth a try—you might be surprised!