Apsara Dance Performance Including Buffet Dinner and Hotel Pickup

Introduction

If you’re visiting Siem Reap and want an evening that combines authentic Cambodian culture with a relaxed dinner, this Apsara Dance Performance with Buffet Dinner and Hotel Pickup offers a compelling choice. Priced at just $29 per person, it promises a taste of Cambodia’s traditional arts paired with a hearty buffet of local dishes—all wrapped up with convenient hotel transport.

What we love about this experience is the cost-effective nature of the package, the opportunity to see classic Khmer dances performed live, and the easy pickup service that takes the hassle out of getting there. That said, one potential drawback is that the buffet food gets mixed reviews—some find it satisfying, others less so. This tour suits those eager to enjoy a cultural show with a relaxed meal in a friendly environment, especially if you’re staying centrally in Siem Reap.

Good To Know

• Affordable Cultural Experience: For $29, you get both dinner and a traditional dance show, making it good value.
• Convenient Transport: Round-trip tuk-tuk pickup from your hotel saves time and effort.
• Authentic Khmer Art: A lively presentation of classical and folk dances offers insight into Cambodia’s artistic traditions.
• Diverse Food Options: The buffet includes Khmer specialties like Amok curry and Khmer BBQ, though reviews suggest quality may vary.
• Limited Duration: The 90-minute experience is compact but packed with cultural highlights.
• Mixed Food Reviews: Some travelers appreciated the buffet, while others found it below expectations, especially vegetarians.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

The Itinerary and Venue

The tour begins with a hotel pickup at 6 pm, a clear plus for travelers who dislike navigating unfamiliar transport or crowded streets. The tuk-tuk ride is short and efficient, dropping you at the Amazon Angkor Restaurant, which is the designated venue. This large hall-style setting can seat many, creating a lively, bustling atmosphere—some reviews mention it being a bit loud and crowded, but that’s part of the authentic experience.

The restaurant is set up to host both a buffet and a stage for the dance show. Once seated, you’ll notice the wide array of Khmer dishes, from traditional Amok curry to Khmer BBQ, allowing you to sample various flavors. The presentation is straightforward, but some guests note that the food ranges from decent to average, with a few feeling the quality didn’t quite match the price.

The Dinner

The buffet offers a good selection of Cambodian dishes suitable for most palates. Vegetarian options are available, which some reviewers appreciated—one even described the vegetarian choices as “good.” Expect to find familiar staples like rice, vegetables, and chicken skewers, with the food replenished regularly during the evening.

However, opinions vary on the buffet’s overall quality. Several guests mention the food being “not great,” and some found it inedible, especially if they’re used to more refined cuisine. Nonetheless, many felt it was sufficient for a casual, cultural dining experience and appreciated the chance to try local dishes in a relaxed setting.

The Dance Show

The highlight is the Apsara dance performance, which lasts approximately 90 minutes. You can expect a mix of classical Khmer dances and folk styles, with dancers dressed in traditional costumes performing graceful, intricate movements. Reviewers describe the dancing as “excellent,” with some guests mentioning the performance as mesmerizing or captivating—definitely a highlight for those interested in Cambodian culture.

A common theme in reviews is that the show offers a window into Cambodia’s artistic traditions. One guest remarked, “the dancing was excellent,” and another appreciated the variety of dances on stage. Although the show is relatively short, it provides a good overview of Khmer performances, often accompanied by traditional music.

Some reviewers noted that audio quality or stage lighting could be better, and that it wasn’t always easy to hear or see clearly, especially in a large, crowded venue. Still, most felt the performance was a worthwhile cultural experience, especially given the reasonable price.

The Overall Value

At $29 per person, this experience packs a lot into a 90-minute timeframe. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off is a big plus—saving you from haggling or navigating unfamiliar streets—making it especially appealing for first-time visitors or those with tight schedules. The buffet’s variety, paired with the cultural show, provides a relaxed, enjoyable evening without breaking the bank.

However, it’s worth noting that some guests felt the buffet was underwhelming, especially for vegetarians or those expecting gourmet quality. The reviews suggest that the experience is best appreciated as a cultural showcase rather than a culinary feast.

The Experience for Different Types of Travelers

This tour is ideal for travelers who want an affordable, authentic glimpse into Cambodian arts and cuisine without long travel or complex planning. It suits those who enjoy live performances and are open to casual dining.

If you’re looking for a luxurious, high-end dinner or a very quiet, intimate setting, this might not meet your expectations. Similarly, if food quality is a top priority, you may want to explore other dining options.

Finally, this experience works well for groups, solo travelers, or couples looking to combine entertainment with a taste of local culture in a convenient setting.

The Sum Up

This Apsara Dance Performance with Buffet Dinner offers a practical way to experience Khmer culture in Siem Reap. The combination of live dance, local cuisine, and hotel pickup creates a smooth, hassle-free evening, especially suited to travelers on a budget or those wanting a relaxed cultural night out.

While the buffet may not win awards for culinary excellence, the lively performances and the opportunity to learn about Cambodia’s traditional arts make this a worthwhile addition to your itinerary. The experience is most rewarding if you’re curious about local culture, enjoy live entertainment, and prefer a balanced mix of value and authenticity.

If you’re after an easy, engaging, and reasonably priced cultural experience, this tour delivers. Just keep your expectations in check regarding food quality and ambiance, and you’ll likely have a pleasant, memorable night.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, round-trip tuk-tuk pickup from your hotel in Siem Reap is included, making it very convenient.

What time does the tour start?
The pickup is at 6:00 pm, and the show lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, some guests noted that vegetarian dishes are included and that they had a good selection, especially compared to meat options.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility to adjust your plans.

Is the buffet dinner all-you-can-eat?
Typically, yes. The buffet offers multiple Cambodian dishes with replenished servings, though reviews suggest the quality varies.

What should I expect from the dance performance?
You’ll see a mix of classical and folk Khmer dances, performed by dancers in traditional costumes, often accompanied by live music.

Is this tour suitable for large groups?
Yes, the venue’s size accommodates many guests, making it suitable for both small and large groups.

Are drinks included in the dinner?
No, drinks are not included and need to be purchased separately.

This experience offers a balanced taste of Cambodia’s traditional arts and cuisine in a relaxed, accessible setting. It’s ideal for those seeking culture without fuss, and for travelers eager to add a lively, authentic night to their Siem Reap visit.