Siem Reap, the land of the former Khmer Empire, has evolved into a hub of culinary business activity and food tours. A variety of tantalising cuisines are available here and range from traditional Khmer to Middle-Eastern. Yet, the city is a haven for traditional street food goodies, attracting adventurous foodies from around the world. Here is list of the street gems we recommend you try while in Siem Reap.

We are going to start the street feast with a very original dish: Prahok Kob, also known as Kob. A traditional Khmer dish, containing Prahok (fish paste), small fish and Kreung (spice or herb paste) wrapped in a banana leaf and left to cook under pieces of rock, lit beneath or over coals and is best eaten with a dip and raw vegetables, such as cucumber, eggplant and water spinach. Steamed white rice is a great accompaniment.  However, the smell could be a bit strong for fussy eaters. The food station in front of Angkor Wat sells the best Prahok Kob in town, only $1 per serving, plus rice. Order a takeaway and eat it under the shade of a big tree on the roadside to savour the feeling of a traveler during the Angkorian era.

Palm Juice at Angkor

While exploring Angkor Wat, especially under the hot sun, there is nothing more reviving than a sweet, cold drink. If you are not a fan of sugary soft drinks, why not try a glass of refreshing palm juice sold within the compound of the great temple. The juice, brought fresh from the tree in bamboo stems, contains antioxidants, Vitamins A, B, C, and the elements zinc, calcium, potassium and iron, which are all good for health. Served at 2,000 riel ($0.50) per cup, it is an example of how enterprising Cambodians stop at nothing when it comes to benefitting from their surroundings.