Having not visited for 4 years I had forgotten if there was much of a street food Koh Kong scene and indeed if there was all that much to do here. Well the good news is that not only does Koh Kong have street food, but there is now a lot more going on in this quiet little corner of Cambodia.
Here’s my guide to street food Koh Kong including how to get here, the nightlife and quite frankly if it is worth bloody coming in the first place.
What the Koh Kong
Koh Kong is both a province and the name of the main town, which is found hugging the Thai border in the far southwest of Cambodia. With a population of around 70,000, it’s a relatively small and quiet town, but it plays a significant role in Cambodia’s growing tourism industry, particularly thanks to its proximity to Thailand and the laid-back charm it offers compared to other bustling tourist hotspots.
The town sits at the mouth of the Koh Kong River, making it a perfect location for anyone interested in exploring the nearby mangrove forests or heading over to the idyllic islands just offshore. With its beautiful natural landscapes and slow pace, Koh Kong offers a bit of peace and quiet—just enough to make you appreciate its rustic charm.
Street Food Koh Kong
So, while Koh Kong is not nearly as popular as say Sihanoukville, it is this lack of popularity and indeed development that gives Koh Kong a much rugged and Khmer feel to it. And this massively translates to the Koh Kong street food scene which, come nightfall, and even during the day to an extent, is pretty much everywhere. This includes roadside stalls, stuff on the back of bikes, and the very Khmer outdoor restaurants.
As you would expect, seafood is the order of the day when it comes to Koh Kong street food, with the beachside, where they are building the new port also having a couple of markets that almost resemble Kep, well if you squint a little.
Where to get Street Food in Koh Kong
While the street food Koh Kong scene is fairly eclectic and, well, everywhere, there are a few places of note that offer the best street food dining options within Koh Kong.
- The New Port Area – As development continues, this area has started to pop up with some great seafood markets and stalls. Perfect for grabbing a quick bite and watching the world go by.
- Chicken Farm Road (Main Road) – A busy street lined with carts, small vendors, and street food vendors, this area gives you a bit of everything, from snacks to seafood.
- Koh Kong Island (by the beach) – For a more relaxed, scenic dining experience, head over to Koh Kong Island. Here, you’ll find stalls offering fresh seafood with the bonus of a beautiful ocean view.
Must Try Dishes in Koh Kong
While Koh Kong is not exactly the culinary capital of Khmer Cuisine, there are at least a few things that are well worth a try when you come to the area.
- Bird’s Nest Drink – A unique treat that set me back $8 but is definitely worth it if you’re feeling adventurous. Made from bird’s nest soup, it’s a bit of an acquired taste.
- Pickled Shrimp (Bok Lahong) – You’ll find this everywhere, especially around the mangrove forests. The tangy, salty shrimp packed with bold flavors is a must-try.
- Grilled Seafood Skewers – Fresh off the grill and packed with flavor, the grilled prawns, squid, and fish are perfect for a quick snack by the beach.
- Cambodian-Style BBQ Fish – Marinated fish served with a fiery chili sauce, it’s a perfect mix of smokey, spicy, and fresh.
- Coconut Pancakes (Num Krok) – These little fluffy coconut cakes are served with a variety of fillings. Sweet, savory, or spicy—they’re a great way to end your meal.
What to do in Koh Kong
Again, this is not exactly Vegas, but it is a pleasant place and there are a few things at least to see and do in Koh Kong.
- Mangrove Forests – A must for nature lovers. Take a boat ride through the lush mangroves, a serene spot that’s perfect for photography or just escaping the heat.
- Koh Kong Beach – A peaceful beach perfect for a relaxing day out. Not much in the way of big resorts, just sand and sea.
- Koh Kong Waterfall – A bit off the beaten path, but the waterfall in the area offers a stunning view and some refreshing natural pools to dip into.
- Koh Kong Island – Grab a boat out to the island, where you can explore the beaches and eat seafood straight off the boat.
- Koh Kong City Center – Explore the local market, small shops, and cafes for a taste of everyday Cambodian life.
Nightlife of Koh Kong
Despite China seemingly trying to turn Koh Kong into a pseudo-colony in the ilk of Sihanoukville, nothing much has really changed all that much since I last came 4 years ago. There is (still) a small Chinese kind of “bar street,” but in reality, little else. There are no bars to speak of as such, with beers coming from small restaurants and the best nightly activities seemingly being massage and KTV—of which there is at least one street dedicated.
Is it worth coming?
I personally really like Koh Kong and feel that its laid-back presence and overall vibe make it a perfect change from Sihanoukville, Koh Rong, and even Siem Reap.
And not only that but the street food Koh Kong scene, while not the most interesting in Cambodia, is not just decent, but a must for anyone that has more than a passing interest in Khmer-style seafood. So, while it won’t be taking over the world any time soon, if you like down-and-dirty Cambodian experiences away from the crowds, then this place is worth the journey.
Getting out of Koh Kong
From Koh Kong, your transport options are fairly straightforward.
- Phnom Penh – About 4-5 hours by bus.
- Sihanoukville – Around 2-3 hours by bus, depending on the traffic.
- Pursat – Around 5 hours by bus or minivan.
- Siem Reap – A long haul at about 10 hours by bus, or less if you do your own vehicle
- Osoam – A hidden gem, located about 1.5 hours north by bus, it’s a nice stop if you’re on your way to Koh Kong or looking to explore the quiet, rural life.